Why Summer Runs Feel So Much Harder (And the Hydration Mistakes to Avoid)

Why does your normal easy run suddenly feel impossible when the temperature rises? If you've ever wondered why your heart rate climbs, your legs feel heavy, or your pace slows dramatically during the summer, this episode explains the science—and the simple hydration strategies that can help. Coach Chris and Coach Maya break down what really happens inside your body when you run in the heat, why hydration is about more than just drinking water, and how common mistakes can leave runners feeling sluggish, fatigued, or even lead to serious medical issues during longer races. In this episode, you'll learn: ☀️ Why hot and humid weather makes every run feel harder ❤️ What cardiovascular drift is—and why your heart rate climbs in the heat 💧 Why drinking only when you're thirsty isn't always enough on longer runs 🧂 Why sodium matters just as much as water during long or hot runs ⚠️ The surprising dangers of drinking too much plain water (exercise-associated hyponatremia) 🏃 Practical hydration strategies for long runs, races, and summer training 🥤 When electrolyte drinks actually make sense—and when plain water is perfectly adequate Whether you're training for your first half marathon or simply trying to survive summer running, this episode will help you hydrate smarter, run more comfortably, and avoid some of the most common mistakes runners make. 🚀 Start your free half marathon training plan:https://halfmarathontrainingplan.com/start/ 💧 We've recently been enjoying the sugar-free electrolyte mixes from Key Nutrients during longer summer runs. If you're looking for another hydration option, you can learn more here If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast and leave a review—it helps more runners discover the show. Train Smart. Run Strong. Finish Proud.