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It's hot out, like stupid hot but I need to catch a workout every other day or I'll go nuts. For years I've developed the coveted title of "Sweat Monster" and typically gas-out early when training in the heat.
Now, I'm hitting my runs in almost 100 degree weather, with humidity around 60%. How am I doing it? Well, I'll tell you.
Pre, per, and post cooling.
I cool my body before, during and after training. Without that bit of prep, I can't complete my wods. I overheat, sweat like a beast, and bail out. It sucks. But, studies show that taking time for some simple methods to cool yourself can result in improved protection from heat related injury but can actually improve athletic performance! Crazy right?
Here's the simple explanation: When overheating, your body responds to cool itself by cranking respiration, increasing heart rate, and initiating perspiration. However, that takes a ton of energy and sweating depends on evaporation to cool the body. If the humidity is high, sweat won't dry and now your hot and wet. Gross. By cooling yourself properly, your body doesn't have to work as hard and humidity won't effect it.
Here are some strategies to help you crush YOUR workouts in the heat:
PRE-COOLING
Drink Ice Water - Before you go out, lower your body temp by chugging some ice water. Studies show it will take longer for you body to overheat.
PER-COOLING (DURING)
Targeted Cooling - This one is a little tricky. Without proper gear, placing ice packs on your body can result in skin damage. However, if it's not too humid, try evaporative apparel fromMission. They make Vaporactive clothing that absorbs 300x more sweat and allows for easier evaporation. Thus, better cooling.
Soon, athletes will be able to order Kryofitapparel that features active cooling tech that works regardless of humidity.
POST-COOLING
Drink ice water, stand in the cold shower, stand under a fan when wet, whatever you can do to drop your core temp. You'll recover faster and function better and the heat will be a distant memory.
