Hi Lulu,

I too am fair skinned and sweat a lot (43 years old, male). I do most of my running in a company fitness center (cool and dry) but also run every 5K race near me I can.

What I do is get up extra early the day of the race and after a good breakfast, I sip water (maybe 2 glasses total) all the way up to the time I leave for the event. Obviously I need to visit the restroom when I arrive at the event, but my body is more able to deal with the heat and the sweating. Also, don't feel ashamed if you stop and drink a cup of water on the course. I say stop because it really difficult to run and drink water at the same time. Come to a complete stop, drink the water and then get your pace going again. If you just chug down a big glass of water before the event your body will use what it needs at the time and pass the rest.

I ran a 4-miler last year and it was hot. I refused to stop for water and became quite dehydrated. I don't let that happen again.

Len brings up a good point with the urine color. I was sure if I should go there.:D

After the 4-miler in the heat and humidity I ran last year, I didn't have to go for almost three hours and it was orange. Bad news.

Hi LuLu,

I'm more medium-complected but I have pretty serious problems with heat.  Even if the day is not that hot, the sun beating down on me gets my skin hot and my heart racing and then I get the feeling that I'll never be able to catch my breath.  At least 3 times this was enough to trigger pretty bad panic attacks in which I was sure I was going to pass out or even die (literally).  Besides staying hydrated, the only way I've been able to avoid this happening is to run only when/where it is cool.  If I'm outdoors, early morning is my only option and even then a shady course is best.  Also, my running coach turned me on to these electrolyte replacements called ShotBlocks by Clif.  They're gummy squares that are 95% organic and come in a variety of flavors.  They won't cool you down, of course, but somehow they make me feel better and when you suffer from anxiety, that can make a big difference.

I just wanted to say that I am glad you asked this question, because I, too, get HOT.  Not only do I get lobster-faced, I also get migraines from the heat.  Ugh.  It takes forever for me to cool down.

LuLu,

You are awsome and an inspiration.  Good luck to you and keep up the great work!

Cynthia

I did IronGirl Bloomington 2006 & 2007. What you need to know about this race, is that it can be pretty chilling the morning of the race. I believe last year it was in the 40's when I showed up to the transition area to rack my bike.

The first run should be pretty easy. You will need to save your legs on the last loop of the bike ride. Those hills on Normandale are killer if you do not have a road bike (and still tough even if you do). My suggestion would be to train with the MN Tri club. Each year the ladies participating in Iron Girl have gotten together every Saturday in August and first weekend in September to ride the course as a group early in the am. This is a dangerous course to ride anytime except REALLY early in the morning. So, it's best to be with a group.

The last run it may be getting toasty and humid. You will want to make sure you drink a little before you leave the transition area. The water stop is not for a mile into the run. You should be okay after that.

Nutrition wise, take a gel after your first run and before you head out on your ride. Bring a gel pack with you on the ride. Bring a water bottle that has electrolyte replacement and a water bottle with just water.

This is a great course and such a fun race! I was wish I was still living in MN to do this one! Good luck and let us all know how you do.

Gretchen