Shang

Got a question about riding in heat for y'all.

Living in Texas, I end up riding in fairly extreme heat on a regular basis. I've switched my weekend rides to the mornings when it's not so hot, but I still end up riding in temperatures in the high 90s on weekday evening rides.

I've noticed that I feel sluggish when I start my rides, then gradually feel better about 45 minutes after I start riding. I'm doing at least 15-20 minutes of warm-up when I start my rides, which is plenty for me when it's below 90, but it seems like it takes much longer when it's hot out. Trying to hold anything close to my normal endurance pace is impossible, and I can't maintain my output when I try any intervals.

I've already moved my ride time back an hour to take advantage of slightly cooler temperatures, and I might push it back again to see if it's just the temperature that's killing me.

Does anybody have any tips on how to train effectively in the heat?

Hammonjj

While there may be something larger at work, it's all about adaptation. I live in Colorado, but often race in hot areas, so in the spring time, I'll roll around in my car with the heat blasting all the time. Mind you, this is when it's 70 degrees outside already. The more you live in it, the better you will be adapted to it. It's never fun.

ericm979

Yep. Turn off the AC. It makes you soft.