Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Running in 70 degrees

You might have noticed: I write a blog about what to wear when running. And yet, despite almost bragging about my years of experience AND probably having written about running in 70 degrees and sunny in the past, I was way overdressed today.
Temp: 70 and sunny
Wind: Calm
Humidity/Precip: Medium low (around 60%)/None
Distance: 3 miles
Terrain: Flat to rolling hills

What I wore: Nike shorts and running jacket, wick-away t-shirt, sunblock.

Did it work: No, I was way too hot. I should have known because I was perfectly comfortable the minute I stepped out the door. It is best to be slightly cold when you start. Even if you're walking, which is how I started, you'll warm up very quickly if you're swinging your arms and moving fast.

What to wear: At this temperature, you can easily wear shorts and a t-shirt. I have a friend who is still wearing summer singlets. Even though it's fall (or spring, if you're in the So. Hemi.), wear sunblock. The sun is strong enough to do damage.

(In case you're wondering what happened - my apartment was cold and I got psyched out. Live and learn!) 

See you on the trails and, hopefully, I'll be dressed right!

3 comments:

  1. Hi. Interesting Blog! I was hoping you could help me - I am travelling from Australia in a week to run the NY Marathon - second marathon, first international event. I have been having a few panic attacks as I am unsure if what I have been training in will be suitable for the NY marathon conditions - and I am not overly prepared for anticipated temps. I live on the Gold Coast and am currently running in 70degree plus conditions - I wear a singlet and 3/4 Mizuno leggings. I have purchased Nike running gloves and a long sleeve Asics performance shirt and plan on rugging up pre-race in a discardable tracksuit... have you any suggestions or predictions on likely weather conditions in NY early November and what do people generally wear that time of year in NY. Really appreciate any feedback you have thanks.

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  2. Hi. Thanks for the blog love. I hope I can be a bit more help. I ran NYC 3 years ago, so these will be NYC specific.
    First, don't worry - it's much easier to go from training in warm temps to cooler.
    Second, the pre-race discardable tracksuit is perfect. You spend a lot of time in the starting zone - dropping off your bag and just getting there early because you're excited - and it can be breezy, so the Tyvek suit (sold at the NYC ING expo) or anything windproof and cozy is good.
    Third, I read your blog and saw you're running with a pain in the bum/leg. Ordinarily I don't like to run long distances with anything tied around my waist, but if there's a chance you're going to have to walk, I suggest carrying an extra layer or having someone staged along the course carry it for you.
    Fourth, on the weather. It surprise many Americans and most foreigners to learn the NYC is one of our rainiest cities. So, the weather could range from 40F/5C to 80F/25C, with a good chance of rain at some point during the day. I don't mind running in a cool rain, as long as I'm moving. However, I'm not sure how long the finish line chute is these days. Three years ago, there was literally a 1 mile walk after the finish to pick up any checked gear and to get out of the park. This was when I wished I had a cover-up.
    Specifics: I ran NYC in shorts and sports bra. At the start, I had gloves, a pullover and Tyvek trousers and wished I had a Tyvek top. I was comfortable until the long walk at the finish. The gear you describe - singlet under long sleeves and 3/4 leggings should be fine, but bring shorts in case The City decides to give summer one last shot. Go the expo and get the Tyvek tracksuit, but bring one from Oz as a back up.
    Enjoy! I know taking your run on the road can be nerve racking, but it's the same thing you've been training for. Even if you have to walk some of it, it's a great city, the crowd is fantastic and you'll get lots of love.
    And let me know if you want restaurant recos:-)

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  3. Hi. Thanks for the blog love. I hope I can help!
    1: Good news, it's easier to go from running in a warm climate to a cool one. I think you'll be fine, but here's some thoughts on prep...
    2: At the NYC Expo, there's a stall that sells disposable tracksuits made of windproof Tyvek. Buy one and wear it up until the start. Staten Island is windy.
    3: Disposable gloves are a good idea. When I ran NYC 3 years ago, I started with the Tyvek track bottoms, disposable gloves and pullover. When I warmed up, I striped down to a sports bra and shorts and was comfy until the end.
    4: If you can, either tie the long sleeve top around your waist or have someone meet you near the end with warm top. The chute after the finish line is almost a mile and that's when many runners get cold.
    5: Weather can vary pretty wildly. Most importantly, brace yourself for rain. NYC gets a lot of rain, especially in the fall. With your layers and Tyvek tracksuit, I'm absolutely sure you'll be fine.
    Good luck, take care of that aching bum/leg muscles (I read your blog:-D) and let me know if you need a restaurant reco - NYC is my former hometown.

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