Ah, summer in Central Florida—the land of theme parks, gators, and what feels like 10,000% humidity. If you’re like me, a runner who’s both brave enough and perhaps a little crazy enough to tackle summer miles here, you know that the struggle is real. But with the right mindset (and a dash of shimmer), not only can you survive summer running, but you can also thrive!
Embrace the Shimmer: Understanding Humidity and Dew Point
First things first, let’s talk about the two main culprits that make summer runs feel like you’re running through a bowl of soup: humidity and dew point.
What’s Humidity, Anyway?
Humidity is the amount of water vapor in the air. The higher the humidity, the harder it is for your sweat—uh, excuse me, shimmer—to evaporate. And if it can’t evaporate, it can’t cool you down, leaving you feeling like a glazed donut in a microwave.
Dew Point: The Real Game-Changer
While humidity gets all the press, dew point is the unsung hero (or villain) of summer running. The dew point is the temperature at which air becomes saturated with moisture and can’t hold any more water. A high dew point means there’s a lot of moisture in the air, and it’s not going anywhere. When the dew point climbs above 65°F, your body has a tough time cooling itself. Above 70°F? That’s when running starts to feel like a Herculean task, even for the most seasoned athletes.
Here in Central Florida, it’s not uncommon for the dew point to sit in the 70s or even low 80s during the summer. Yes, you read that right. You might be wondering, “Why on earth do we do this to ourselves?” Well, my friend, that’s where the fun begins.
Shimmer Like You Mean It: How to Not Just Survive, but Thrive
1. Hydrate Like a Pro
I know, I know—hydration advice is as old as time, but it’s especially crucial when the dew point is high and your shimmer is flowing. Start hydrating well before your run, and don’t stop after you’re done. Aim for water, electrolyte drinks (I’m looking at you, Skratch fans!), and don’t shy away from a little extra sodium to keep those electrolytes balanced.
2. Timing is Everything
Early bird gets the worm—and the less brutal heat. Aim for early morning runs to avoid the peak heat of the day. If you’re not a morning person, consider evening runs after the sun starts to set. Just be aware that even then, the humidity might still be hanging around like that one guest who won’t leave the party.
3. Dress the Part
Less is more when it comes to running attire in the heat. Go for light-colored, moisture-wicking fabrics that help keep you cool. If you’re in the market for some gear, this is where my search for the perfect running skirt comes into play. You want something that doesn’t ride up, isn’t too tight, and lets you shimmer freely without turning into a soggy mess.
4. Pace Yourself
Listen, you’re not setting PRs in this weather, and that’s perfectly okay. Adjust your pace and expectations to match the conditions. Think of these runs as a way to build mental toughness rather than physical speed. You’ll thank yourself when the cooler months roll around and you’re suddenly flying through your miles.
5. Know When to Throw in the Towel (or Find a Pool)
Sometimes, the weather wins. If it’s dangerously hot, don’t be a hero. Switch to indoor workouts, cross-training, or even some pool running (which, by the way, is way more fun than it sounds). Your long-term health is more important than one run.
6. Find the Fun
Running in this weather can be downright miserable, but it doesn’t have to be. Join a community of like-minded runners who get it. We talk about our “shimmer” like it’s a badge of honor—and it is! The more you can laugh at the absurdity of running in 90% humidity, the more you’ll enjoy it. Play games with yourself: count how many times you have to wring out your shirt or see if you can make “shimmer angels” post-run. (Just kidding… kind of.)
7. Fuel Right
Your body needs more than just water when it’s shimmering up a storm. Keep your energy levels up with proper fuel before, during, and after your run. Fig Newtons, UCAN gels, whatever floats your boat—just make sure you’re keeping those energy stores topped off.
Bonus Tip: Mind Over Matter
Running in extreme heat and humidity is just as much a mental game as it is a physical one. Remind yourself that every step you take in these conditions is making you stronger and more resilient. You’re training not just your body, but your mind to push through discomfort. And when those cooler months finally arrive, you’ll feel like you’re running on air.
Final Thoughts: Shimmer with Pride
Summer running is no joke, but with the right approach, it can be more than just tolerable—it can be a shining (or shimmering) part of your training. Embrace the challenge, hydrate like it’s your job, and above all, remember that you’re not just sweating—you’re shimmering, and that’s what makes you extraordinary.