In the few races I've done in real hot conditions I haven't had the best race, and I'm doing Kona for the first time this year. Previous hot races I've done have been the WC in Vegas in 2012 (near 100 at the race finish) and Eagleman a couple years ago, which was in the low 90's. I guess I placed decently at both of these events, but felt that I didn't handle the heat as best as possible.
I know that the easiest thing to do is plan on going a bit slower than in a cooler race, and to stay properly hydrated (but not overly so). I've listened to a bunch of podcasts regarding the heat and hydrating. Andy Blow with Precision Hydration is a guy I've heard on a number of shows, and I'll be using some of their products leading into and during the race. In the past I've used SaltStick pills during hotter training days and in hot races.
I know that keeping the core as cool as possible is ideal, so literally taking in a bit of ice at aid stations as well as placing ice down the tri suit, in pockets, and in the hat can work. I have some DeSoto arm coolers, but know they may not be as effective in a humid environment. Dumping water both during the bike and run is part of my game plan. DeSoto makes a cooling hat - worth getting one?
I've also just started a sauna/heat protocol where I'll build up to 30' sauna sessions after swims, 3-4 times a week for the next couple of weeks.
What about those cooling towels to put around the neck and rehydrate at aid stations? I've never used one - just a gimmick or do they work?
Anyone have other ideas or out of the box thinking that have helped you out in hot/humid races? Thanks!!!
Blog: http://262toboylstonstreet.blogspot.com/
https://twitter.com/NateThomasTri
Coaching: https://bybtricoaching.com/ - accepting athletes for 2023
I know that the easiest thing to do is plan on going a bit slower than in a cooler race, and to stay properly hydrated (but not overly so). I've listened to a bunch of podcasts regarding the heat and hydrating. Andy Blow with Precision Hydration is a guy I've heard on a number of shows, and I'll be using some of their products leading into and during the race. In the past I've used SaltStick pills during hotter training days and in hot races.
I know that keeping the core as cool as possible is ideal, so literally taking in a bit of ice at aid stations as well as placing ice down the tri suit, in pockets, and in the hat can work. I have some DeSoto arm coolers, but know they may not be as effective in a humid environment. Dumping water both during the bike and run is part of my game plan. DeSoto makes a cooling hat - worth getting one?
I've also just started a sauna/heat protocol where I'll build up to 30' sauna sessions after swims, 3-4 times a week for the next couple of weeks.
What about those cooling towels to put around the neck and rehydrate at aid stations? I've never used one - just a gimmick or do they work?
Anyone have other ideas or out of the box thinking that have helped you out in hot/humid races? Thanks!!!
Blog: http://262toboylstonstreet.blogspot.com/
https://twitter.com/NateThomasTri
Coaching: https://bybtricoaching.com/ - accepting athletes for 2023