Plenty of us aren't short on excuses when it comes to skipping a workout. Long days, tough traffic and bad weather all make the short list for not-good-enough reasons to bail on a trip to the gym. But what about when the weather really does make running outside a danger? Here are some ways to tell whether it's safe to hit the pavement.
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There's no specific temperature that makes running outside a danger, but it's the combination of heat and humidity that can be a hazard. Women's Health advises runners to be mindful of the heat index, which says how hot it actually feels outside. If the heat index is above 90 degrees, hit the gym or take a class instead.
Look out for signs of heat exhaustion.
It may seem like the weather is right for an outdoor jaunt, but heat exhaustion can strike for a number of reasons — including dehydration. According to ACTIVE.com, symptoms like heavy sweating, muscle cramps, paleness, headache, dizziness and nausea can be signs that the heat is more than your body can stand. If you're risking it in the heat, make sure to acclimate to the temperature and drink extra water before heading out and picking up speed.
Pace yourself to the temperature.
According to Runners World, when temperatures rise able 60 degrees, every additional five degree increase can slow a runner's pace per mile by 20 to 30 seconds. That's probably for the best. Avoid overworking your body and be mindful of the fact that while your time may be a bit slower, your body is working harder than usual.
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