How weather impacts those who like to go the distance
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Runners have been training for months to prepare for the 26.2 miles in the St. Joseph Marathon this weekend, but when it comes to running outdoors, the weather can add extra challenges.
There is a connection between your body and the weather. Performance during workouts can depend on the temperature.
Conditions below 45 degrees or above 60 degrees Fahrenheit can have an impact.
“Usually when you're running in hotter conditions, your body loses fluid faster, your heart rate goes up, your blood pressure rises and it causes a lot more physical stress on your muscles," said Jeff Hughes, a personal trainer at the St. Joseph YMCA.
In hot weather, experts recommend staying hydrated by drinking 6 to 8 ounces of fluid every 20 minutes.
On the flip side, colder weather makes it important to monitor core body temperature. Ideally, athletes want to stay around 98.6 degrees before and during the marathon.
Hughes offered this advice: “Always warm up. Always have some activity first to get your body warm. Dress in layers.”
Dry weather is always preferred, but if rain moves in, slick pavement can make footing tricky. That’s when the right shoes become critical for maintaining grip.
As for the most favorable running conditions, most runners have the same consensus.
"Crisp early fall, when the humidity is low and temperatures are in the upper 50s to low 60s, is just kind of that perfect weather," said Tera James, an experienced marathon runner.
No matter the highs or lows, the feeling of a long, daunting run can be overwhelming — but also rewarding.
For runners participating in the St. Joseph Marathon, Hughes shared some encouragement.
"It’s not just, 'Oh, this is going to be miserable.’ No, it’s going to be fun. There are going to be people on the course cheering for you," said Hughes.
At the finish line, runners will be greeted with not only a medal but also a new sense of pride.
No matter what Mother Nature brings, safety should always come first. Always make sure to check weather conditions before the race.
