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Racing in Hot Weather Doesn't Have to Suck...

Saturday, 13 June 2015 00:10

ATTENTION:  Liberty RESULTS. Words and pics on Tuesday.

By Angie Anderson (usatriathlon.org)

There is a lot of information out there on how to race in the heat. Common heat acclimatization protocols have athletes training in saunas or in the highest heat of the day. If your big race is likely going to take place in high temperatures with full sun, these race-day tips will surely make the event more comfortable. You may not be able to beat the heat, but with a little bit of planning, you can certainly manage it better.

Below are a number of strategies to help you keep your cool on a tough, hot day. Experience in the heat of battle has proven that these tips will make your day a little less steamy!  ...

The day before the race:

- Stay out of the sun as much as you can.
- Hydrate well all week leading into a hot race. A few pounds will likely show up on the scale. As long as you aren’t eating way more than you need, those extra pounds are likely water proving your hydration plan is working.
- Sunscreen: The night before the race shower then apply sunscreen to any body parts that will be exposed. This includes your face although be careful not to touch your goggle line as sunscreen can mess with the seal.
- Fill your bike bottles half full and freeze them. In the morning, top them off with water and you’re good to go. Using an insulated bottle keeps liquids cold a lot longer than a regular bottle, too.  

The day of the race:

Reapply sunscreen the day of the race....READ MORE