Now
that we’ve settled in to the summertime weather patterns — sunny
mornings, stormy afternoons, hot just about all the time — be sure to
adjust your outdoor plans accordingly. Heat doesn’t have to drive you
off the bike lanes or walking paths, but you need to have a plan to keep
your cool… which means:
•Watch the schedule:
You can (hopefully) avoid heat and rain by avoiding afternoon outings
for the next few months. Early mornings and early evenings can offer you
some relief… some days. (Then there are those days where it’s 80
degrees at 7 a.m. and there’s nowhere to go but up.)
•Watch your route:
Shade is your friend this time of year, so look for biking or walking
routes that include some trees or tall buildings to give you a break
from the heat. Breezes (if there are any) can help as well, so check the
wind before you go to see if you can use it to help you cool down along
the way.
•Watch the weather:
Before you head out check the conditions (there’s an app for that!) for
the next few hours. It can keep you from getting caught in any
unpleasantness… and if that’s unavoidable, remember all the usual
cautions about lightning, taking shelter, etc. Better safe than (very)
sorry.
This doesn’t need to be work or interfere in any way with
your outdoor activities. Just think of it as accommodating the climate —
except, instead of arming yourself to deal with the winter cold up
north (assuming that’s an experience you remember), you’re adjusting to
the summer heat down south. Frankly, it’s easier to stay cool than get
warm, so you’re already ahead of the game!
In this game, the rules are the same as dealing with the cold… you just don’t have to wear as much!
This means:
•Be prepared:
Dress right, stay hydrated and throw in the sunscreen (if it’s bright)
or some rain gear (if it’s not). For attire, think breathable fabrics
and light colors — and a hat wouldn’t hurt (unless you’re wearing your
bike helmet like you should). As to hydration, have a drink before you
start and keep it up while out for your walk, run or ride. If you can’t
carry it with you, pick a route that has water or some other cold liquid
along the way. Gear up as needed… apply sunscreen before you go, add it
if you’re out long enough to warrant it (or burn easily), remember your
sunglasses, and have portable rain gear handy if you think it might
pour.
•Be flexible:
If weather conditions force you to re-schedule your ride or walk,
require you to cut it short or force you to take shelter during… well,
think of it as a small price to pay for warm winters (and for staying
safe). As we mentioned, shade is your friend… and, if you have a choice,
consider the surface on which you’ll be traveling (like clothing,
lighter can be better). Take breaks to get out of the sun or cool off a
little, and don’t expect to maintain your cool-weather pace during the
summer.
•Consider your options:
Going out early or late helps, as does letting exertion be your guide
(rather than the clock). If the heat and humidity are getting to be too
much, it may be time to head indoors for your biking or walking (or
other exercise efforts) or head to the pool (swimming is good exercise,
as is pool running) — at least until the temperature eases.
BikeWalkLee
is a community coalition raising public awareness and advocating for
complete streets in Lee County—streets that are designed, built,
operated and maintained for safe and convenient travel for all users:
pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, and transit riders of all ages and
abilities. Information, statistics and background online at www.BikeWalkLee.org.
Ready to ride or run?
Run: Join
the Fort Myers Track Club for its Summer Fun Run series… there’s even
one tonight, starting/ending at Fort Myers Brewing Co. (in case you’ve
worked up a thirst). Cost is $4 for members, $5 for non-members, with
details at www.ftmyerstrackclub.com.
Ride: Early
registration is closed for the July 12 Wings and Wheels ride in Punta
Gorda... but you can still show up that day, pay your fee and join the
fun. Lots of distances and events to keep everyone engaged. Details at www.peaceriverridersbicycleclub.com.
Both: Want to try a tri? There’s a traditional sprint or a duathlon (run/bike/run) at Sugden Regional Park in Naples on Sunday (www.eliteevents.org). Rather hit the beach? Then sign up for the Englewood YMCA Sprint on Saturday, July 18; details at www.swflymca.org/programs/englewood-triathlon/
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