How to Improve Running Performance By
Dressing Too Warm!
March 2015--The Peaceful Runner Newsletter #54
Dear Friend,
Welcome to our monthly newsletter -- How to Improve Running Performance By Dressing Too Warm! We hope you enjoy this article and it helps you to improve your running performance!
We would also like to congratulate Frank Béraud, our winner of last month's contest!
Also, thank you very much to those of you who have already responded to our survey. If you haven't already completed our one question survey, please take a few moments to do so now. We really want to know about your running challenges and frustrations.
How to Improve Running Performance By Dressing Too Warm
Have you ever dressed too warm for running? It can be an annoyance as we want to feel comfortable when we are running.
Last week I made the mistake of wearing clothes that were too warm for the temperature that day. I was dressed in layers so I could have easily removed some clothing but that day I decided to challenge myself and run through the discomfort.
I thought it would be a good mental challenge, but I also remembered reading about the benefits of heat training, i.e. training in hot weather conditions. I think we can simulate hot weather conditions when we overdress for the current temperature as we feel hotter than we need to be.
Later when I was researching heat training, I read about a study conducted by the University of Oregon that tested the benefits of training in hot weather conditions. Two test groups of experienced cyclists participated in the study.
The first group trained in a controlled hot environment for 10 days and the other group trained in a much more comfortable temperature for 10 days. Researchers found that the hot temperature training improved the performance of the test group by 7 percent and there were no improvements among those who trained in the cooler environment. Specifically they found that:
"Heat acclimation improves the body’s ability to control body temperature, improves sweating and increases blood flow through the skin, and expands blood volume allowing the heart to pump more blood to muscles, organs and the skin as needed."
These test results would certainly indicate that training in hot weather conditions would improve running performance. From my experience, I definitely sweated much more than I normally would. It was a physical challenge but being warm was also a mental challenge that I need to overcome, but I believe any time we challenge ourselves it builds strength, both mentally and physically.
"Difficulties along the way are opportunities in disguise; they reflect your expectations. Facing them with surrender helps you follow a more peaceful and perceptive life."
-- Carl Abbott
At times when I was feeling overcome with heat, I used the following affirmation which helped take my mind off being too warm:
"I love being warm."
It helped me accept that I was feeling warm and that it was ok to be too warm.
In the end, I ran the full 14 kms still wearing all the warm clothes. I was pleased with myself, but why would I chose to do this? Why would I intentionally make myself uncomfortable while running? I guess I just wanted to know that I could overcome the discomfort so I could feel more confident about handling other discomforts that may arise while running. And I think we can all use a bit more confidence in our running abilities!
I also felt that it was good physical training as I was simulating training in hot weather conditions. I think I will probably try this again the next time I dress too warm for running and hopefully it will improve running performance for me!
What about you? Have you challenged yourself lately? Or do you have some great tips to share about how to dress appropriately for variations in weather? We would love to hear all about your experience. Please share in the comments below.
As always, keep running, smiling and be happy and peaceful!
With love and peace,
Jackie
Back to top of Can You Improve Running Performance by Dressing Too Warm?
If you have enjoyed this newsletter and would like to have it delivered to your Inbox monthly, you can subscribe here.
You can also:
Like Us on Facebook
Follow Us on Twitter
Or share this page and/or add your comments below:
NEW FEATURE - DISQUS COMMENTS!
Login using Facebook, Twitter, Google or Disqus.
Recent Articles
-
Do You or Someone you Know Suffer from Achilles Tendonitis?
Mar 28, 25 03:14 PM
Find out more about this frustrating condition, including why active recovery is essential and exercises to speed recovery. -
Every runner needs to master this essential drill!
Mar 17, 25 01:55 PM
The 100-Up exercise is a highly effective drill that enhances both running technique and performance. It can be practiced indoors or outdoors, and it also serves as a valuable tool for injury recover… -
Are you ready for waterproof running shoes?
Feb 26, 25 12:30 PM
Do you run in cold, wet and slippery conditions during the winter? Waterproof running shoes may be just what you have been looking for to keep you safe and your feet dry. -
The Buteyko Breathing Method Can Improve Our Running Performance and Our Health!
Feb 14, 25 11:54 AM
The Buteyko Breathing Method is perfect for anyone wanting to improve their running performance, boost overall fitness, live a healthier lifestyle, reduce stress, achieve easier weight management, an… -
Make 2025 the Year you Break Free from Injuries for Good!
Jan 07, 25 08:20 AM
Activate your natural ability to run injury-free with our "Exclusive Online Feldenkrais® Running Course"... -
Even runners are not immune to the dangers of sitting too long during the day!
Jan 03, 25 11:46 AM
The start of a new year is the perfect time to formulate new habits and new ways to reduce physical inactivity. Prolonged sitting due to having a sedentary job and/or an ever-increasing digital lifes… -
Everything You Need To Build An Online Business! - Solo Build It!
Dec 29, 24 12:40 PM
-
A Holistic View of Your Health and Fitness With Oura®!
Dec 16, 24 07:43 AM
This revolutionary Smart Ring uses the latest technology to discreetly track sleep patterns, fitness activities, stress, heart rate, women’s health and more... #ad #smartring -
Happy to be Running on the Beach Again!
Dec 13, 24 10:37 AM
I am so happy to be running on the beach again! Click below to find out where... -
Learn How to Run With the Whole Body in Just 30 Days!
Nov 13, 24 09:30 AM
This book has drastically changed how I run. It has shown me what it feels like to run using the whole body efficiently. My body no longer hurts after running.
Confused About the Correct Running Form?
Our Free Running Form Template Can Help...
Get the running form template now!
Our template provides a straightforward explanation of the components of good running form, eliminating any confusion about how to improve your running technique.
