1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Running & Jogging

7 Ways to Stay Cool on Hot Runs
Beat the heat when running in hot weather

By Christine Luff, About.com

Updated July 01, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Running in hot weather can be uncomfortable and even dangerous, if you're not careful. Follow these tips to stay cool during hot weather running.

1. Run at the beach.

Running near water usually means you'll get a nice breeze and feel cooler. And the best part about running near water is that you can take a refreshing dip once you're done with your run.
More: Tips for Beach Running

2. Carry fluids with you.

Don't assume that you'll be running past water fountains during your runs or that you won't need to drink on the run. Carry your fluids using a water belt or bottle and make sure you stay hydrated (you may need to stop and refill your bottle).

3. Make a splash.

Use water to cool yourself during runs. If you are overheating, splashing water on yourself, especially your head, underarms, and neck, will cool you down quickly and have a lasting effect as the water evaporates from your skin.

4. Make a Badwater ice bandana.

Use a cooling trick from competitors in the Badwater Ultramarathon. Lay a bandana out flat and place a row of ice cubes from one corner of the bandana to another. Then roll it up and tie it around your neck.

5. Run during the coolest part of the day.

Beat the heat by running in the early morning or evening hours. Try to avoid running between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the hottest part of the day.

6. Choose a shady course.

Pick a running course that has a lot of shade so you can avoid running directly in the sun.

7. Dress lightly.

Light-colored, loose-fitting clothing will help your body breathe and cool itself naturally. Tight clothing restricts that process, and dark colors absorb the sun's light and heat. Light colors reflect the sun from your skin.

More: How to Dress for Hot Weather Running

Explore Running & Jogging
About.com Special Features

Learn how you can reduce your your numbers with these nutrition and exercise tips. More >

Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this fall with these tips. More >

We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.
  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Running & Jogging
  4. Safety/Weather
  5. Hot Weather Running
  6. Hot Weather Running – How to Stay Cool During Hot Weather Running>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.