Here in the Northeast, we've been getting our first major heat wave of the summer season. With about a week of consecutive days above the 90F mark, it seems like a good time to talk about the heat.
Many RAAM racers take the time to train in hot conditions to prepare themselves for the intense environment of the Mojave Desert at the beginning of the race. Racers train in saunas, in the mountains, and arrive a few days early for the race to practice desert riding. And, looking at the effect that heat has on the body, it can make a big difference on whether or not a rider finishes ultra endurance races.
Hot temperatures, though aren't the only problem cyclists need to be able to address. We also need to be prepared to work through humid conditions, especially here in northern New York. Many times, the humidity and the heat come together, creating conditions that are brutal on the body. When heat and humidity are both working at the same time, it is easy to suffer the effects of dehydration because the humidity makes you feel hydrated, even though your sweating massive amounts of water.
What I find the best way to deal with the heat is just riding through it. It isn't easy to drink water when your not thirsty, especially if it is warm from sitting in the sun for a few hours. Training in the heat also allows you to become accustom to how your body is affected by high mercury readings. And, finally, it makes you a better rider when the thermometer drops. The important part about heat is to just ride through it. Don't let nature dictate your schedule, and don't let it get in the ways of your goals and ambitions.
It also makes a good epic picture for your blog every now and than...
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