Earlier this year a couple of friends struggled a bit with hot summer rides and shared some info that I had found. Now partially due to memory issues from the TBI am writing this sort of as a way to make it easy to refer to and/or share. Keep in mind this is what have learned myself by trying out things and seeing what happens.
Back in 2005 when decided to do the Peterborough Half IM Tri/Du which was in July. Which of course means it will way more likely that it will be a hot July race day. Being back in the day of the early days of the internet there was some info about how to deal with heat during say a duathlon. Myself did the best could to read what they did at IM Hawaii. The way I looked at it is if it worked there it would work in Peterborough.
In 2005 did some of the salt pills thing, and tinkered with hydration methods on the bike. One thing I did do is I went out and ride during the hottest parts of the day whether that be actual training ride or commuting by bike. Back then I had to ride everywhere so ended up riding a lot on the hot parts of the day without really attempting to as part of training. By doing this I was getting myself heat adapted meaning my body got used to the heat and would be less of a shock later. Though as have learned since I apparently have some genetic gift that allows me to handle heat ok. Though doesn't mean be stupid, means still need to follow heat protocols to be safe.
.jpg)
It would be a few years later would learn the missing part of the equation. While no longer doing Tri/Du I still read up on training methods and such. And one of the books read was Chris McCormack's book I'm Here To Win. It was while reading this learned of the other half of the equation which was something called muscle cell hydration which is something that happens in the week to 2 weeks prior to the race/event. If hadn't read McCormack's book wouldn't have learned of this.
I have experimented with this and used it a few times on hot days and rides. It does work. And that is the most important thing. experimenting with it yourself and see what version works for you. Some need less salt and electrolytes with water to work while others need more- think of Scott Molina who found out he needed salt almost by the teaspoon full as he had a high electrolyte loss in the heat.
Reality is most of the electrolyte drink and drink mix info we are given via various sources focuses on during the day of the hot event/race. It doesn't bring up the days leading up to that day which is part of the equation when you think about it logically.
Also at the beginning of August the Gravel Cyclist posted a blog entry as well as a YouTube video about riding during the heat of N Florida.
Cycling in the Heat of Summer: How We Ride
Are any of these methods perfect? No. Because everyone has different requirements based on how their bodies handle heat and humidity. As mentioned at the start of this entry I wrote this to make it easier to share in future. As well as easier to not forget any links due to memory issues.
If you like these adventures please support Team No Fixed Income
https://buymeacoffee.com/teamnofixedincomediaries
YouTube Channel,
No comments:
Post a Comment