20 miles ... Friday ... hot ... HARD!! That's my 20 mile run last Friday in a nutshell.
When the weather forecast included words like "hottest yet this year" and "extreme humidity," I should have decided to put off my 20 mile run. But my mindset was ready for 20 that I was almost afraid to put it off. I should have, though.
The first 2 hours or so of the run was fine. I felt good and my pace was about right at 5 mph. I was pacing myself nice and slow to last 20. However, at the 13 mile mark, the heat and humidity really started to get to me.
I planned my hydration right. A full Camelbak was about 2/3 empty as I rounded the 11 mile point and picked up my hidden bottle of Powerade. Boy, did that hit the spot and give me an energy boost! 2 miles later I stopped at the Super America and filled up my Camelbak with water. I knew hydration wasn't going to be my problem.
I had put on my sunscreen, so I knew I was protected, but as the time approached 11, the sun was higher in the sky and any shade on my route had disappeared. That is what made the run difficult - the lack of shade and breeze in the heat.
The last 6 miles were super difficult. I knew I could do it if I took more frequent walk breaks and kept drinking. I did finish the 20 on my feet and running, but it wasn't the run I was hoping for. Feeling nearly overcome by the heat, I called my Dad to pick me up so I didn't have to walk the 2 miles back home. (Thanks, Dad.)
I have another 20 miler scheduled in September, which I'm sure will go much better as long as the weather cooperates. As Cecilia told me - not every run can go as planned, variables happen, and there is always a next time.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Pat's so sweet - he picked you up! Seriously, isn't that sweet?
ReplyDeleteJust remember there are days and runs like this. Bottom line is you finished and worked with the conditions. You didn't stupidly press on though you were light headed or something like that.
I really felt that it would have been stupid to push through the heat. I did my best and didn't collapse at the end...
ReplyDeleteThanks for your support and perspective, Cecil!