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Posted by u/vegan_powerlifting路

How do you survive hot summer rides?

TL;DR: Struggling with summer heat on rides. Looking for hydration and gear tips to survive and keep pushing.

i've been getting into longer rides lately, but damn, this summer heat is brutal! I'm transitioning from powerlifting to more cycling, and the combination of the heat and humidity just drains me. On my last ride, I felt like I was going to pass out halfway through.

I've tried drinking more water and even electrolyte tabs, but I still feel like I'm dying by the time I hit mile 10. I'm also trying to figure out what to wear to stay cool without looking like a total dork. Any tips on gear or hydration strategies? I want to keep pushing myself but also want to avoid heat exhaustion. What do you do to stay safe and still crush those summer rides?

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u/recovery_queen路

Nurturing your body is key! Consider recovery after your rides too. Stretching and foam rolling help reduce muscle soreness, especially in the heat. If you're feeling drained after rides, you may want to add some quality recovery foods and hydration post-ride.

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u/dadbod_to_ripped路

I totally get it, man. I was out riding with my kids last summer, and I felt like I was melting. Make sure you're using sunscreen too, or you'll end up with some serious burns on top of everything else. You might also consider a light, moisture-wicking jersey. They help keep you cool without sacrificing style.

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u/fitness_skeptic路

You might be pushing yourself too hard if you're feeling faint at mile 10. Consider lowering the intensity for a bit and work on building your endurance gradually. It's not all about the distance; pace matters too.

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u/vegan_powerlifting路

Transitioning to cycling can be tough, especially in the heat. I've found that hydration goes beyond just water and electrolytes. Consider adding coconut water or a homemade sports drink with some salt and sugar. It really helps with rehydration and maintaining those electrolyte levels. Also, try to ride during cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late evening, to avoid the worst of the heat

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u/fiftyshadesofwhey路

Honestly, if you're feeling rough at mile 10, it might be time to look at your nutrition before and after the ride too! Are you eating enough carbs? Something like a banana or a bagel can help you stay energized. Just don't forget the protein afterwards! 馃ク

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u/crossfit_curious路

I've been there with the heat! I started incorporating short breaks during longer rides to cool down and hydrate. Just find some shade for a few minutes, drink some water, and then hit the road again. It really helps you push through those tough miles.

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u/macro_master99路

Hydration strategy is crucial, but let's talk about your training. If you're pushing hard, make sure you're tracking your RPE and adjusting your intensity. Overtraining in the heat can lead to serious issues. And yeah, don't be shy about testing out different gear until u find what works for you.

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u/mealprep_maven路

As a busy mom, i know how hard it can be to balance everything. I usually prep my hydration before I ride, mixing my electrolytes in advance and keeping them chilled. It's easier than trying to figure it out when you're already feeling exhausted on the bike!

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u/stronger_than_i_look路

Stay cool, stay safe! i often ride with a bandana soaked in water around my neck. It helps a lot with temperature regulation. Also, make sure you're wearing breathable fabrics; cotton traps heat like crazy. Cycling shorts can feel awkward, but they really do help with comfort!

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u/broke_but_fit路

If you're on a budget, look for sales on breathable cycling gear. Sometimes thrift stores have hidden gems. And yeah, hydration packs can be a lifesaver for longer rides without breaking the bank. Just make sure to clean them regularly!

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u/recomp_royalty路

100% agree with the hydration suggestions here! I also like to throw in some electrolyte gummies for an easy snack during long rides. Keeping your energy up while staying hydrated is a balancing act, but it's so worth it in the end.

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u/bodyweight_brawler路

You should try some bodyweight workouts when the heat gets too much. They keep your fitness up without risking heat exhaustion on the bike. Plus, they can be super fun and challenging!

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u/no_time_for_gym路

Honestly, if you can't manage the heat, it's okay to take a break. I've had days where I skipped the ride and did a quick home workout instead. Just don't feel pressured to push through at all costs. Your health comes first.

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u/caffeine_fueled_27路

Bro, if you're dying by mile 10, maybe it's not just the heat. 馃槀 You might want to check your fitness level. Seriously, though, make sure you're pacing yourself and not going too hard too fast. Gradually build up that distance

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u/running_from_cardio路

Skill issue, bro. Just don't die out there! 馃槀 Seriously though, if it's that hot, try not to think of it as a long ride. Break it down into smaller chunks and hydrate like it's your job.

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