If you’re anything like me, you have to brace yourself every summer for the intensity that is training in the insane crazy heat. We reach triple digits on a consistent basis in the summer time which can definitely make running all the more challenging! However, here are some reasons why you should still hit the roads and sign up for some races during those hot summer months.
1. To keep your fitness going strong. Sure it’s hot, and some days we just don’t want to be out there because of the sun blazing down our backs. But signing up for that local 5k or 10k will definitely keep your engine revved up and keep your fitness level high during the season.
2. Do it for the cold refreshing post race beverages after. Nothing is better after a run or race than an ice cold fruit pop or ice cold water…or hey, a margarita or beer? I am not judging.
3. There are actually some fun races in the summer months. If you are anywhere in the Dallas area, I recommend Too Hot to Handle, the Cobra 5k or the Hottest Half. All are fun races to get some miles in the hot hot heat.
4. To have an excuse to take long post race dip in the pool. Why not, you have earned it. Cool off those legs with a dip in the water.
5. As a benchmark race for those upcoming fall marathons. Testing out your speed in the summer will definitely get you prepped and ready for a fall 26.2.
6. Because when fall and winter roll around, you will feel so speedy! The cooler weather will feel so amazing if you race and/or train in the summer months. Believe it.
Are you signed up for any epic summer runs?
thedancingrunner 
I’m signed up for the Rock the Block 10K in Plano on Memorial weekend and the Wildfire Half in Denton in July. I’m definitely excited, but very nervous about the heat. I’m planning to do my long runs leading up to the race in the mornings, but I’m scattering in some afternoon short runs to try to build up a tolerance to our blazing Texas heat. Do you have any hydration tips?
Oh good! The Wildfire Half I hear is not the best course in terms of excitement but perhaps you will like it. Perhaps they will make some changes this year. Have not heard much about Rock the Block. Hydration wise just drink to thirst, carry a hydration pack if possible. Or be sure to take whatever is out on the course but some races don’t do a good job at being well stocked. Better to be prepared and have your own.
I am so bummed that I work weekend mornings so no races for me right now!
I hear ya! Some local races are at night sometimes but I am more of a morning racer. You get it in when you can!
I will have to be on the lookout for some night races.
So far I’m signed up for the Wounded Warrior half in June and Too Hot to Handle in July! I actually don’t mind summer races, I feel like the pressure’s off so I can just run fairly easy and have fun! And yes, a post-race beer and pool is always something to look forward to!
Absolutely!
I would love to do a Warrior Dash in July but nobody wants to join me. They think I’m crazy! Lol
Oh fun! I’d totally join u if I was in Canada!
I usually sign up for races in the summer but I’m holding off this year. My boss is on vacation the entire month of July and we will be going through a system conversion at work, it will be all I can do just to hang on! There is a 10k I want to do but I don’t know yet if it will work out with work.
San Diego definitely counts as a summer race! But I hear ya! Good luck and I hope to see you there!
I’m doing a few on my way to hopefully an olympic triathlon. But this year I found a free one! You get chip bibs and a medal! It’s for safety week at a local tire factory and they opened it up to the community!
Badass!! Have fun!!
Hot summer running = cool fall PRs.
Indeed!