.svg){kind=icon}
Running in the Heat
Top Tips for Summer Running in Dubai
.webp)
For anyone in the Northern half of the world, Summer is here. The Dubai heat and humidity has kicked in and I keep looking at peoples' Strava runs and ‘feels like 48’, ‘96% humidity’ at 6:30 AM is now a common sight. People might not pick summer as their favourite season to run outside in Dubai with the winter months falling into favour, but the summer heat has A LOT going for it. Here are some top tips for running in the heat.
Adapt the training: You will not be able to hit the same level of intensity as you could do in the cooler climates or as the barometer rises in the morning. Paces will need to reduce, you will not need to run for as long, you will need to train earlier in the morning. If you get towards the end of a session and still feel good, its ok to push a little harder but you don’t want to smoke yourself from the beginning.
Hydrate: Seems obvious but you WILL sweat more during and post exercise. Your body is working in overdrive to try to keep you cool. Make sure you are well hydrated the night before a run and pre-run. Adding electrolytes to your hydration will be essential. Don’t know how much you sweat in a run? – try this. Weigh yourself before and after running (naked if possible), factor in differences from urination and water taken whilst running. The difference will be your sweat rate. You will probably be shocked at how much you lost – I dropped 1.5kg in the UK on an easy 60mins. Rehydrate with 1.5x the amount lost. A 1kg loss = 1litre of hydration.
It takes time: If you are new to running its going to take 7-14 days to acclimatise to the heat. Start small and gradually increase your run time and intensity. Your body will learn to adapt by sweating less, dropping your Hr and decreasing your core temperature.
Ditch the brunch: Alcohol has a dehydrating effect so whilst going for a morning after run post ‘sesh’ may help you ‘sweat it out’ you are doing more harm than good. Drink less, hydrate more and be prepared to take a rest day if you do go out and have one to many.
Prepare: Sunburn, chafe, blisters are all more common in the hot weather and prevention is better than cure. Wear a high factor sunscreen. Invest in a decent pair of seamless undershorts /sports bra that fit well to combat the dreaded inner thigh and underarm chafe. Applying body glide pre-run to these areas can also help. If you are still unlucky enough to chafe, sudocrem is fantastic to apply to the area post run and I always keep a tub in my cool box just in case.
Mindset: We are all in the same position, its hot for everybody and we all suffer the same. Remember that you choose to run, its fantastic! If you prepare and approach the sessions with a winning attitude, then you will enjoy them much more. If you start a run moaning that it’s too hot and humid guess what? You’re not going to have fun.
To run in the heat, you need to prepare a little better, recover a little harder and adjust a few protocols but it can be done and be done very well. Stay safe, be sensible and keep on running. I look forward to seeing you out there on the tarmac or in the trails!
If you have any questions please feel free to drop me a DM @robjonesendurance or an Email rj@innerfight.com
GYMNASTICS
This Tuesday, we’re focusing on handstands and handstand walks! We’ll start with strength work before moving on to balance and control while upside down, beginning from the box and progressing to the wall and beyond.
Thursday, we’re heading back to the bar for another round of Bar Muscle Ups! Whether you're chasing your first rep or fine-tuning your technique for cleaner, stronger sets, we’ve got you covered with progressions, modifications, and strength drills to help you level up. Let's go!
HYBRID FITNESS
This week's HYBRID Fitness session focuses on running intervals and then some compromised running, getting used to pushing into the run after some taxing work.
MOBILITY
Unlock better depth, posture, and comfort in your front squats with this focused mobility class. We’ll target key areas, such as the ankles, hips, thoracic spine, and shoulders, to improve your squat mechanics and front rack position. Whether you’re new to squatting or looking to break through a plateau, this class will help you move more efficiently and squat with confidence. Suitable for all levels.
WEIGHTLIFTING
Weightlifting this week is snatch. Working on the power snatch. Technique work, then a complex of snatch pull + 2 power snatch. Finishing with some heavy back squats.
The Monday Ride
Our community program is delivered via TrainingPeaks for AED 750 p/month. If you're interested to have a plan to follow, email tw@innerfight.com
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1 hour
Location: The Loop Cafe, Nad al Sheeba
Track Tuesday
Our weekly on track speed session! For any level of runner looking to build their run speed, threshold and Vo2max fitness and run with the best running community in Dubai.
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1 hour
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Wednesday - Indoor Ride
Our community program is delivered via TrainingPeaks for AED 750 p/month. If you're interested to have a plan to follow, email tw@innerfight.com
Thursday - Endurance Strength
A strength class focused on key movements for endurance athletes to help avoid injury, build speed and develop strength.
Time: 06:30am
Location: This is a paid class session at InnerFight HQ. If you're interested to join, email winning@innerfight.com
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner. We start together, run hard then finish together and chat about it over a coffee and breakfast.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Saturday - Long Ride
Our weekly endurance ride. This ride always begins with 18 - 20km at 30kph before a longer segment with various formats. Expect the main group to ride around 34kph, slower groups will break off and form. Anyone is welcome to join.
Time: 04:59 am
Location: Bottom of the Stick, Al Qudra.
Sunday - Long Run
A run where we start and finish together. Up to 2hrs long depending on people needs.
If you're interested to join, reach out to Dan Bagley, db@innerfight.com
Time: 05:29 am
Location: Common Grounds
Monday
Session: No in-person session
There is no in person LRC session today, Unlimited Clients, there is a session in your TrainingPeaks still. Enjoy!
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. Come ready to run fast and have fun.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
Today we will be running intervals in the park. 100m on/100m recovery.
Friday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run + LRC Training Camp
This week re will be cycling through the below seqeunce:
10X
2mins @ 7PRE
1min @ 8RPE
1min @ recovery
The evening session on the LRC Training Camp will be a chilled shake out run from the hotel.
Saturday
Time: 5:29am
Session: LRC Training Camp
We have an action packed day on the LRC Training Camp, all details will be shared in WA.
Sunday
Time: 5:29am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: Long Run + LRC Training Camp
Today we will host a community long run from Common Grounds for those who are still in Dubai.
Those on the training camp in KhorFakkan we will hike at 5:29am.
Monday:
Strength:
A) 1 min max set strict pull-ups
B) EMOM x 8 Pull ups @ 30% of max set
Conditioning:
Every 5 mins x 6
2 rounds
6 Alt Single Arm Manmaker
300/250m row
Tuesday:
Strength:
A) Every 75 sec x 9
1) 16 Alt goblet cossack squat
2) 40 sec alt single leg V-ups
3) 30 sec side plank E/S
B) Every 2 mins x 6 - 3 front squat @20x1
Conditioning:
30-20-10
Assault Bike
Rest 2 minutes after each set
Wednesday:
Strength:
Deadlift Every 2:00 x 5 - 2 reps
Conditioning:
AMRAP 22
In a team of 4
2000m C2 Bike
40 Power cleans (70/45)
40 TTB
Thursday:
Strength:
A) Every 90 sec x 8 - 10 DB box step up
B) Every 2 mins x 5 - 8 Alternating Barbell Reverse Lunges
C) EMOM x 8 - M1: 20 sec Nordic Hold / M2: 30 sec Ring rows
Conditioning:
500/450 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
400/350 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
300/250 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
200/150 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
100/50 ski
Friday:
Strength:
A) Every 75 sec x 8 1 push press (1 sec pause in dip)
Conditioning:
0-16 mins
2500m/2000m row
Every 2 mins - 6 box jump overs
16-26 mins
1500m/1200m row
Every 2 mins - 6 Dual KB Front squat
26-32 mins
1000m/800m row
Every 2 mins - 6 Dual KB STOH
For anyone in the Northern half of the world, Summer is here. The Dubai heat and humidity has kicked in and I keep looking at peoples' Strava runs and ‘feels like 48’, ‘96% humidity’ at 6:30 AM is now a common sight. People might not pick summer as their favourite season to run outside in Dubai with the winter months falling into favour, but the summer heat has A LOT going for it. Here are some top tips for running in the heat.
Adapt the training: You will not be able to hit the same level of intensity as you could do in the cooler climates or as the barometer rises in the morning. Paces will need to reduce, you will not need to run for as long, you will need to train earlier in the morning. If you get towards the end of a session and still feel good, its ok to push a little harder but you don’t want to smoke yourself from the beginning.
Hydrate: Seems obvious but you WILL sweat more during and post exercise. Your body is working in overdrive to try to keep you cool. Make sure you are well hydrated the night before a run and pre-run. Adding electrolytes to your hydration will be essential. Don’t know how much you sweat in a run? – try this. Weigh yourself before and after running (naked if possible), factor in differences from urination and water taken whilst running. The difference will be your sweat rate. You will probably be shocked at how much you lost – I dropped 1.5kg in the UK on an easy 60mins. Rehydrate with 1.5x the amount lost. A 1kg loss = 1litre of hydration.
It takes time: If you are new to running its going to take 7-14 days to acclimatise to the heat. Start small and gradually increase your run time and intensity. Your body will learn to adapt by sweating less, dropping your Hr and decreasing your core temperature.
Ditch the brunch: Alcohol has a dehydrating effect so whilst going for a morning after run post ‘sesh’ may help you ‘sweat it out’ you are doing more harm than good. Drink less, hydrate more and be prepared to take a rest day if you do go out and have one to many.
Prepare: Sunburn, chafe, blisters are all more common in the hot weather and prevention is better than cure. Wear a high factor sunscreen. Invest in a decent pair of seamless undershorts /sports bra that fit well to combat the dreaded inner thigh and underarm chafe. Applying body glide pre-run to these areas can also help. If you are still unlucky enough to chafe, sudocrem is fantastic to apply to the area post run and I always keep a tub in my cool box just in case.
Mindset: We are all in the same position, its hot for everybody and we all suffer the same. Remember that you choose to run, its fantastic! If you prepare and approach the sessions with a winning attitude, then you will enjoy them much more. If you start a run moaning that it’s too hot and humid guess what? You’re not going to have fun.
To run in the heat, you need to prepare a little better, recover a little harder and adjust a few protocols but it can be done and be done very well. Stay safe, be sensible and keep on running. I look forward to seeing you out there on the tarmac or in the trails!
If you have any questions please feel free to drop me a DM @robjonesendurance or an Email rj@innerfight.com
The Monday Ride
Our community program is delivered via TrainingPeaks for AED 750 p/month. If you're interested to have a plan to follow, email tw@innerfight.com
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1 hour
Location: The Loop Cafe, Nad al Sheeba
Track Tuesday
Our weekly on track speed session! For any level of runner looking to build their run speed, threshold and Vo2max fitness and run with the best running community in Dubai.
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1 hour
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Wednesday - Indoor Ride
Our community program is delivered via TrainingPeaks for AED 750 p/month. If you're interested to have a plan to follow, email tw@innerfight.com
Thursday - Endurance Strength
A strength class focused on key movements for endurance athletes to help avoid injury, build speed and develop strength.
Time: 06:30am
Location: This is a paid class session at InnerFight HQ. If you're interested to join, email winning@innerfight.com
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner. We start together, run hard then finish together and chat about it over a coffee and breakfast.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Saturday - Long Ride
Our weekly endurance ride. This ride always begins with 18 - 20km at 30kph before a longer segment with various formats. Expect the main group to ride around 34kph, slower groups will break off and form. Anyone is welcome to join.
Time: 04:59 am
Location: Bottom of the Stick, Al Qudra.
Sunday - Long Run
A run where we start and finish together. Up to 2hrs long depending on people needs.
If you're interested to join, reach out to Dan Bagley, db@innerfight.com
Time: 05:29 am
Location: Common Grounds
Monday
Session: No in-person session
There is no in person LRC session today, Unlimited Clients, there is a session in your TrainingPeaks still. Enjoy!
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. Come ready to run fast and have fun.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
Today we will be running intervals in the park. 100m on/100m recovery.
Friday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run + LRC Training Camp
This week re will be cycling through the below seqeunce:
10X
2mins @ 7PRE
1min @ 8RPE
1min @ recovery
The evening session on the LRC Training Camp will be a chilled shake out run from the hotel.
Saturday
Time: 5:29am
Session: LRC Training Camp
We have an action packed day on the LRC Training Camp, all details will be shared in WA.
Sunday
Time: 5:29am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: Long Run + LRC Training Camp
Today we will host a community long run from Common Grounds for those who are still in Dubai.
Those on the training camp in KhorFakkan we will hike at 5:29am.
Monday:
Strength:
A) 1 min max set strict pull-ups
B) EMOM x 8 Pull ups @ 30% of max set
Conditioning:
Every 5 mins x 6
2 rounds
6 Alt Single Arm Manmaker
300/250m row
Tuesday:
Strength:
A) Every 75 sec x 9
1) 16 Alt goblet cossack squat
2) 40 sec alt single leg V-ups
3) 30 sec side plank E/S
B) Every 2 mins x 6 - 3 front squat @20x1
Conditioning:
30-20-10
Assault Bike
Rest 2 minutes after each set
Wednesday:
Strength:
Deadlift Every 2:00 x 5 - 2 reps
Conditioning:
AMRAP 22
In a team of 4
2000m C2 Bike
40 Power cleans (70/45)
40 TTB
Thursday:
Strength:
A) Every 90 sec x 8 - 10 DB box step up
B) Every 2 mins x 5 - 8 Alternating Barbell Reverse Lunges
C) EMOM x 8 - M1: 20 sec Nordic Hold / M2: 30 sec Ring rows
Conditioning:
500/450 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
400/350 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
300/250 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
200/150 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
100/50 ski
Friday:
Strength:
A) Every 75 sec x 8 1 push press (1 sec pause in dip)
Conditioning:
0-16 mins
2500m/2000m row
Every 2 mins - 6 box jump overs
16-26 mins
1500m/1200m row
Every 2 mins - 6 Dual KB Front squat
26-32 mins
1000m/800m row
Every 2 mins - 6 Dual KB STOH
GYMNASTICS
This Tuesday, we’re focusing on handstands and handstand walks! We’ll start with strength work before moving on to balance and control while upside down, beginning from the box and progressing to the wall and beyond.
Thursday, we’re heading back to the bar for another round of Bar Muscle Ups! Whether you're chasing your first rep or fine-tuning your technique for cleaner, stronger sets, we’ve got you covered with progressions, modifications, and strength drills to help you level up. Let's go!
HYBRID FITNESS
This week's HYBRID Fitness session focuses on running intervals and then some compromised running, getting used to pushing into the run after some taxing work.
MOBILITY
Unlock better depth, posture, and comfort in your front squats with this focused mobility class. We’ll target key areas, such as the ankles, hips, thoracic spine, and shoulders, to improve your squat mechanics and front rack position. Whether you’re new to squatting or looking to break through a plateau, this class will help you move more efficiently and squat with confidence. Suitable for all levels.
WEIGHTLIFTING
Weightlifting this week is snatch. Working on the power snatch. Technique work, then a complex of snatch pull + 2 power snatch. Finishing with some heavy back squats.
For anyone in the Northern half of the world, Summer is here. The Dubai heat and humidity has kicked in and I keep looking at peoples' Strava runs and ‘feels like 48’, ‘96% humidity’ at 6:30 AM is now a common sight. People might not pick summer as their favourite season to run outside in Dubai with the winter months falling into favour, but the summer heat has A LOT going for it. Here are some top tips for running in the heat.
Adapt the training: You will not be able to hit the same level of intensity as you could do in the cooler climates or as the barometer rises in the morning. Paces will need to reduce, you will not need to run for as long, you will need to train earlier in the morning. If you get towards the end of a session and still feel good, its ok to push a little harder but you don’t want to smoke yourself from the beginning.
Hydrate: Seems obvious but you WILL sweat more during and post exercise. Your body is working in overdrive to try to keep you cool. Make sure you are well hydrated the night before a run and pre-run. Adding electrolytes to your hydration will be essential. Don’t know how much you sweat in a run? – try this. Weigh yourself before and after running (naked if possible), factor in differences from urination and water taken whilst running. The difference will be your sweat rate. You will probably be shocked at how much you lost – I dropped 1.5kg in the UK on an easy 60mins. Rehydrate with 1.5x the amount lost. A 1kg loss = 1litre of hydration.
It takes time: If you are new to running its going to take 7-14 days to acclimatise to the heat. Start small and gradually increase your run time and intensity. Your body will learn to adapt by sweating less, dropping your Hr and decreasing your core temperature.
Ditch the brunch: Alcohol has a dehydrating effect so whilst going for a morning after run post ‘sesh’ may help you ‘sweat it out’ you are doing more harm than good. Drink less, hydrate more and be prepared to take a rest day if you do go out and have one to many.
Prepare: Sunburn, chafe, blisters are all more common in the hot weather and prevention is better than cure. Wear a high factor sunscreen. Invest in a decent pair of seamless undershorts /sports bra that fit well to combat the dreaded inner thigh and underarm chafe. Applying body glide pre-run to these areas can also help. If you are still unlucky enough to chafe, sudocrem is fantastic to apply to the area post run and I always keep a tub in my cool box just in case.
Mindset: We are all in the same position, its hot for everybody and we all suffer the same. Remember that you choose to run, its fantastic! If you prepare and approach the sessions with a winning attitude, then you will enjoy them much more. If you start a run moaning that it’s too hot and humid guess what? You’re not going to have fun.
To run in the heat, you need to prepare a little better, recover a little harder and adjust a few protocols but it can be done and be done very well. Stay safe, be sensible and keep on running. I look forward to seeing you out there on the tarmac or in the trails!
If you have any questions please feel free to drop me a DM @robjonesendurance or an Email rj@innerfight.com
Monday
Session: No in-person session
There is no in person LRC session today, Unlimited Clients, there is a session in your TrainingPeaks still. Enjoy!
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. Come ready to run fast and have fun.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
Today we will be running intervals in the park. 100m on/100m recovery.
Friday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run + LRC Training Camp
This week re will be cycling through the below seqeunce:
10X
2mins @ 7PRE
1min @ 8RPE
1min @ recovery
The evening session on the LRC Training Camp will be a chilled shake out run from the hotel.
Saturday
Time: 5:29am
Session: LRC Training Camp
We have an action packed day on the LRC Training Camp, all details will be shared in WA.
Sunday
Time: 5:29am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: Long Run + LRC Training Camp
Today we will host a community long run from Common Grounds for those who are still in Dubai.
Those on the training camp in KhorFakkan we will hike at 5:29am.
Monday:
Strength:
A) 1 min max set strict pull-ups
B) EMOM x 8 Pull ups @ 30% of max set
Conditioning:
Every 5 mins x 6
2 rounds
6 Alt Single Arm Manmaker
300/250m row
Tuesday:
Strength:
A) Every 75 sec x 9
1) 16 Alt goblet cossack squat
2) 40 sec alt single leg V-ups
3) 30 sec side plank E/S
B) Every 2 mins x 6 - 3 front squat @20x1
Conditioning:
30-20-10
Assault Bike
Rest 2 minutes after each set
Wednesday:
Strength:
Deadlift Every 2:00 x 5 - 2 reps
Conditioning:
AMRAP 22
In a team of 4
2000m C2 Bike
40 Power cleans (70/45)
40 TTB
Thursday:
Strength:
A) Every 90 sec x 8 - 10 DB box step up
B) Every 2 mins x 5 - 8 Alternating Barbell Reverse Lunges
C) EMOM x 8 - M1: 20 sec Nordic Hold / M2: 30 sec Ring rows
Conditioning:
500/450 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
400/350 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
300/250 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
200/150 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
100/50 ski
Friday:
Strength:
A) Every 75 sec x 8 1 push press (1 sec pause in dip)
Conditioning:
0-16 mins
2500m/2000m row
Every 2 mins - 6 box jump overs
16-26 mins
1500m/1200m row
Every 2 mins - 6 Dual KB Front squat
26-32 mins
1000m/800m row
Every 2 mins - 6 Dual KB STOH
GYMNASTICS
This Tuesday, we’re focusing on handstands and handstand walks! We’ll start with strength work before moving on to balance and control while upside down, beginning from the box and progressing to the wall and beyond.
Thursday, we’re heading back to the bar for another round of Bar Muscle Ups! Whether you're chasing your first rep or fine-tuning your technique for cleaner, stronger sets, we’ve got you covered with progressions, modifications, and strength drills to help you level up. Let's go!
HYBRID FITNESS
This week's HYBRID Fitness session focuses on running intervals and then some compromised running, getting used to pushing into the run after some taxing work.
MOBILITY
Unlock better depth, posture, and comfort in your front squats with this focused mobility class. We’ll target key areas, such as the ankles, hips, thoracic spine, and shoulders, to improve your squat mechanics and front rack position. Whether you’re new to squatting or looking to break through a plateau, this class will help you move more efficiently and squat with confidence. Suitable for all levels.
WEIGHTLIFTING
Weightlifting this week is snatch. Working on the power snatch. Technique work, then a complex of snatch pull + 2 power snatch. Finishing with some heavy back squats.
The Monday Ride
Our community program is delivered via TrainingPeaks for AED 750 p/month. If you're interested to have a plan to follow, email tw@innerfight.com
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1 hour
Location: The Loop Cafe, Nad al Sheeba
Track Tuesday
Our weekly on track speed session! For any level of runner looking to build their run speed, threshold and Vo2max fitness and run with the best running community in Dubai.
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1 hour
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Wednesday - Indoor Ride
Our community program is delivered via TrainingPeaks for AED 750 p/month. If you're interested to have a plan to follow, email tw@innerfight.com
Thursday - Endurance Strength
A strength class focused on key movements for endurance athletes to help avoid injury, build speed and develop strength.
Time: 06:30am
Location: This is a paid class session at InnerFight HQ. If you're interested to join, email winning@innerfight.com
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner. We start together, run hard then finish together and chat about it over a coffee and breakfast.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Saturday - Long Ride
Our weekly endurance ride. This ride always begins with 18 - 20km at 30kph before a longer segment with various formats. Expect the main group to ride around 34kph, slower groups will break off and form. Anyone is welcome to join.
Time: 04:59 am
Location: Bottom of the Stick, Al Qudra.
Sunday - Long Run
A run where we start and finish together. Up to 2hrs long depending on people needs.
If you're interested to join, reach out to Dan Bagley, db@innerfight.com
Time: 05:29 am
Location: Common Grounds
For anyone in the Northern half of the world, Summer is here. The Dubai heat and humidity has kicked in and I keep looking at peoples' Strava runs and ‘feels like 48’, ‘96% humidity’ at 6:30 AM is now a common sight. People might not pick summer as their favourite season to run outside in Dubai with the winter months falling into favour, but the summer heat has A LOT going for it. Here are some top tips for running in the heat.
Adapt the training: You will not be able to hit the same level of intensity as you could do in the cooler climates or as the barometer rises in the morning. Paces will need to reduce, you will not need to run for as long, you will need to train earlier in the morning. If you get towards the end of a session and still feel good, its ok to push a little harder but you don’t want to smoke yourself from the beginning.
Hydrate: Seems obvious but you WILL sweat more during and post exercise. Your body is working in overdrive to try to keep you cool. Make sure you are well hydrated the night before a run and pre-run. Adding electrolytes to your hydration will be essential. Don’t know how much you sweat in a run? – try this. Weigh yourself before and after running (naked if possible), factor in differences from urination and water taken whilst running. The difference will be your sweat rate. You will probably be shocked at how much you lost – I dropped 1.5kg in the UK on an easy 60mins. Rehydrate with 1.5x the amount lost. A 1kg loss = 1litre of hydration.
It takes time: If you are new to running its going to take 7-14 days to acclimatise to the heat. Start small and gradually increase your run time and intensity. Your body will learn to adapt by sweating less, dropping your Hr and decreasing your core temperature.
Ditch the brunch: Alcohol has a dehydrating effect so whilst going for a morning after run post ‘sesh’ may help you ‘sweat it out’ you are doing more harm than good. Drink less, hydrate more and be prepared to take a rest day if you do go out and have one to many.
Prepare: Sunburn, chafe, blisters are all more common in the hot weather and prevention is better than cure. Wear a high factor sunscreen. Invest in a decent pair of seamless undershorts /sports bra that fit well to combat the dreaded inner thigh and underarm chafe. Applying body glide pre-run to these areas can also help. If you are still unlucky enough to chafe, sudocrem is fantastic to apply to the area post run and I always keep a tub in my cool box just in case.
Mindset: We are all in the same position, its hot for everybody and we all suffer the same. Remember that you choose to run, its fantastic! If you prepare and approach the sessions with a winning attitude, then you will enjoy them much more. If you start a run moaning that it’s too hot and humid guess what? You’re not going to have fun.
To run in the heat, you need to prepare a little better, recover a little harder and adjust a few protocols but it can be done and be done very well. Stay safe, be sensible and keep on running. I look forward to seeing you out there on the tarmac or in the trails!
If you have any questions please feel free to drop me a DM @robjonesendurance or an Email rj@innerfight.com
For anyone in the Northern half of the world, Summer is here. The Dubai heat and humidity has kicked in and I keep looking at peoples' Strava runs and ‘feels like 48’, ‘96% humidity’ at 6:30 AM is now a common sight. People might not pick summer as their favourite season to run outside in Dubai with the winter months falling into favour, but the summer heat has A LOT going for it. Here are some top tips for running in the heat.
Adapt the training: You will not be able to hit the same level of intensity as you could do in the cooler climates or as the barometer rises in the morning. Paces will need to reduce, you will not need to run for as long, you will need to train earlier in the morning. If you get towards the end of a session and still feel good, its ok to push a little harder but you don’t want to smoke yourself from the beginning.
Hydrate: Seems obvious but you WILL sweat more during and post exercise. Your body is working in overdrive to try to keep you cool. Make sure you are well hydrated the night before a run and pre-run. Adding electrolytes to your hydration will be essential. Don’t know how much you sweat in a run? – try this. Weigh yourself before and after running (naked if possible), factor in differences from urination and water taken whilst running. The difference will be your sweat rate. You will probably be shocked at how much you lost – I dropped 1.5kg in the UK on an easy 60mins. Rehydrate with 1.5x the amount lost. A 1kg loss = 1litre of hydration.
It takes time: If you are new to running its going to take 7-14 days to acclimatise to the heat. Start small and gradually increase your run time and intensity. Your body will learn to adapt by sweating less, dropping your Hr and decreasing your core temperature.
Ditch the brunch: Alcohol has a dehydrating effect so whilst going for a morning after run post ‘sesh’ may help you ‘sweat it out’ you are doing more harm than good. Drink less, hydrate more and be prepared to take a rest day if you do go out and have one to many.
Prepare: Sunburn, chafe, blisters are all more common in the hot weather and prevention is better than cure. Wear a high factor sunscreen. Invest in a decent pair of seamless undershorts /sports bra that fit well to combat the dreaded inner thigh and underarm chafe. Applying body glide pre-run to these areas can also help. If you are still unlucky enough to chafe, sudocrem is fantastic to apply to the area post run and I always keep a tub in my cool box just in case.
Mindset: We are all in the same position, its hot for everybody and we all suffer the same. Remember that you choose to run, its fantastic! If you prepare and approach the sessions with a winning attitude, then you will enjoy them much more. If you start a run moaning that it’s too hot and humid guess what? You’re not going to have fun.
To run in the heat, you need to prepare a little better, recover a little harder and adjust a few protocols but it can be done and be done very well. Stay safe, be sensible and keep on running. I look forward to seeing you out there on the tarmac or in the trails!
If you have any questions please feel free to drop me a DM @robjonesendurance or an Email rj@innerfight.com
One-Hour Workout: Revving Your Swim Engine
.webp)
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
