Summer Running in Austin

July 04, 2016 | by Anne | 1 Minute Read

Let’s face it, if you are a runner and you live or visit Austin it is going to be HOT. It can be incredibly frustrating until you are acclimated to the heat (and let’s be honest even after you are acclimated).

You just have to remember that you are not looking to set PRs in the Summer and you have to back off agonizing over pace. If you lose 1:00 per mile you are just fine. As an example, my general 6 mile maintenance run in Fall, Spring, and Winter is about 48 minutes or an 8 minute mile. In July, August and September it is right around 53 minutes or 8:45 per mile. Even at extreme exertion (which can be dangerous), it is difficult to get anywhere near a Winter pace.

Here are a couple of things we do to make it more manageable:

1. Leave early. It is much better to run early than late. The heat does not bake off at any reasonable time so starting early works best. Also remember that Austin is NOT a dry heat. Granted it is not Houston, but humidity will run 85%-90% many mornings.
2. Stop for water. I like to stop at around 3 miles and if it is a really long run then every 2 or so miles.
3. Look for shade. It might be hard to find, but even a tenth in the shade is a bit rejuvenating.
4. Don’t get frustrated. I tell myself this every year, but remember you are just making it through in maintenance mode for the summer. Even if you are building for a Fall marathon you are just getting the miles in, not setting records.
5. Cross-train. Skip a run and cross-train. It really works on your fitness and it can be inside.
6. Embrace the dripping sweat.