Training Strategies for the Hot Hot Heat

Coach Patrick covers some of the most effective ways to mitigate the costs associated with training in the heat - and still reap all of the benefits. If you have been struggling with the heat, see if any one of these five tips can make a difference for you!

• Train earlier in the day to avoid the peak temperature periods. Do so strategically to hopefully still be able to get enough sleep. 
• Reduce the effort by using your heart rate monitor as the training guide instead of just power or pace. This will allow you to keep your effort consistent and put bigger pieces of work together without accumulating too much stress.
• Optimize your setup for frequent and early access to fluids that have electrolytes. Whether that's gas stations or outfitting / retrofitting your car to be a mobile aid station if needed.
• Consider targeting cooler weather races where you have the opportunity to bring your heat acclimatization to the event and use it strategically to outperform the competition.
• Be sure to write down your lessons learned so you can get smarter every go round whether it's from session to session, week-to-week or even season-to-season.