Speedwork in the Summer

[WVUFan]

This summer I have finally started to do speedwork. This morning I went to the track and it was 75 degrees at 6 a.m. Although my times are decreasing, I'm finding it hard to do the speedwork even in the coolest part of the day. For comparison, although I find other runs uncomfortable and slightly slower in the heat, I still can do them.

Any advice on speedwork in the summer? Thanks!

 

[FFigawi]

My only advice is to keep at it. Doing speedwork or hills or any tough run in the heat and humidity of the summer will make you that much stronger when the weather cools off and race season arrives. Drink plenty of fluids, take extra rest if you need it, and keep plugging away. That's what our group does and it really works.

 

[MouseDogMom]

Last week it was 93 when we went to the track. I completely understand! Our group meets after work, so we're stuck with the hottest part of the day and it's miserable. But it's not going to get any better, and the race is in October, so we struggle through. Ugh!

Jackie

 

[jenifred]

I am with you. My time was steadly decreasing, but in the last few weeks of Louisiana heat, I have started moving backward. Very frustrating.

 

[WVUFan]

Thanks, everyone! I'll keep plugging away in the heatkeeping hydrated and hopefully it will make a difference in my running.

 

[Tiger Lily 03]

Hope the speed work does work for you. Good luck with the heat. I cannot take the heat.

 

[VernRDH]

I am doing my speed work on the treadmill. Its in the basement and cool. This is the first year I am doing speed work, and since I sometimes have trouble maintaining pace, the mill does that for me.

I do my hill work outside, even as the weather gets hotter and more humid, I am seeing improvement.

Good luck!

 

[cewait]

Keep plugging. You will 'slow' up during the heat of the summer... that is normal. Once summer is over then you will really see the results of your effort.

Think of the heat as adding mental toughness to your tool kit.

Hydrate and dig for the end of the intervals.