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TeeDubyaBee asks: Whenever I start running again, I love it but it always eventually leads to exacerbating a recurring back problem and a trip to the chiropractor. Could this be surmountable as I’d love to, figuratively and literally, leap this hurdle to my enjoyment?
Sarah: I am sorry to hear about your back problems. It is definitely worth checking it out with a physio for a more holistic take before doing anything. A lot of back problems stem from a weak core so it could be worth focusing on building that up, which you can do slowly over time (after checking with your physio that it’s suitable). They can give you some specific exercises to do and then it will be a case of committing to that over time. Progress isn’t always quick but in the long run it will make running much easier.
Sarah: Running in the heat raises your heart rate as the body works to cool itself. So running at paces you’d usually find easy feel more effortful. That can be a big demotivator. There’s not really one killer piece of kit to make hot-weather runs more enjoyable. Lightweight, sweat-wicking technical running gear works to a point, and when I ran the length of the Danube, often covering more 30 miles in 35 degrees, I used a combination of a hydration vest, electrolytes and salt tablets (Precision Fuel and Hydration products are excellent) to ensure I was well hydrated.
I’d also run holding ice to help bring down my core temperature. But for me, heat training preparation is really the secret weapon. I spend time in saunas and take hot baths so that when the time comes to face the heat, my body is more acclimated to the conditions and I’m more resilient to higher temperatures.