Eight tips for warm weather parkrunning

We’re in the midst of another Aussie summer, and those cold winter mornings are a distant memory.

 

With the rising temperatures and everyone riding high on Vitamin D, we’ve put together some top tips for parkrunning in the warmer weather…

 

1. Dress appropriately

 

 

When temperatures begin to soar, you need to ensure you don’t overheat whilst walking, jogging and running.

 

The best way to do that is to try and make sure you are wearing light, sweat-wicking clothing. Wicking helps to draw moisture and sweat away from the body, helping you to regulate your temperature more effectively.

 

You should apply suncream, and as well as that, caps are a really effective way to keep your head cool, and sunglasses can help reduce your exposure to UV rays. Plus you’ll look pretty cool too!

 

2. Volunteer

 

 

We might be biased, but we think volunteering at parkrun might just be the best thing ever! 4,000 hi-vis heroes can be found across Australia’s parks and open spaces every week in all weathers.

 

If you’re someone who has always wanted to volunteer, but struggles in the cold, summer is a great time to try your hand at timing, barcode scanning, marshalling or any one of the numerous other roles on offer with the sun on your back.

 

No previous experience is needed, so simply put on your hi-vis, and prepare yourself for the post-volunteering glow. Thank you Marshal!

 

3. Bring a drink or water bottle

 

 

In order to optimise our health it is important we maintain appropriate hydration, ideally through consumption of drinks free from sugar or artificial sweeteners.

 

We also believe that water, as well as being one of the healthiest drinks we can consume, is a cost-effective and efficient way to quench our thirst and remain hydrated.

 

parkrunning in the summer can certainly be thirsty work, and so what better way to stay hydrated than by bringing a bottle of nature’s finest beverage with you on parkrunday!

 

And even when you’re not at parkrun, carrying your water with you can save on money and reduce your temptation to choose less-healthy options.

 

4. parkdogs

 

parkrun is the biggest physical activity movement in the world and it’s just as popular amongst four-legged parkdogs (on a short lead)!

 

However, unlike us, dogs are not able to reduce their body heat as effectively as humans, and the RSPCA has produced this helpful advice on dog first aid and identifying the signs of heatstroke.

 

On those baking hot summer mornings, if in any doubt, it’s best to be safe and leave the parkrun pooches at home, because ultimately it is only parkrun and their welfare and safety is far more important.

 

 

 

5. Sensible pacing

 

You look forward to parkrun all week, and come Saturday morning you’re excited and motivated to beat your friends, run a PB, and storm around the course in a blaze of glory…

 

But, in hotter weather, reassess your goals and pace sensibly, easing your way into your 5k so you don’t overheat, rather than sprinting off like Usain Bolt in the Olympic final, and if you do feel yourself feeling too hot, you should slow down, walk, or stop.

 

 

That might be disappointing for your grand ambitions of breaking 40 minutes, going sub-30, or dipping under the magical 20 barrier. The beauty of parkrun is, there’s always next week.

 

6. Explore nature

 

 

Shall we be honest with each other? During those dark winter months, parkrunning in single-digit temperatures, with no feeling in your hands and feet, and teeth chattering, we’ve all had those moments where we’ve thought: “What on earth am I doing?”

 

But in summer you get to explore the best nature has to offer, from lush bushland to waterfront promenades. Or maybe you’re parkrunning on the trails or the sand at our beach events through to the eye-catching flowers and gardens among inner-city parks, there are plenty of sights and adventures to take in.

 

It’s time to stop and smell the roses and prepare to be in awe of everything our beautiful planet has to offer, all whilst enjoying your free, weekly, timed 5k. Magic!

 

 

7. Cooling off post-parkrun

 

After parkrun, whilst you’re telling everyone about your new PB (*wink wink*), make sure you cool off and sit in the shade once you’ve grabbed yourself a cold drink from the cafe.

 

Now we don’t know how to put this, but here goes… you might also be a little bit parkrun fresh!

 

 

They say that sweat is simply liquid awesomeness, but the person next to you on the train home might not totally agree, so having a spare top to change into and some deodorant also might not be a bad idea!

 

8. Make the most of it!

 

Finally, and most importantly, Australia summers are iconic and where many memories are created, so forget about times and paces and enjoy the puddle-free courses, the singing of the birds, the stunning greenery and bright blue skies… because it won’t forever!