Summer running is slow. Am I getting slower because of this?

Asked by: Tracy Phillips

Why do I run slower in summer?

The higher heart rate makes that 9:40/mile run pace uncomfortable; hence, we are forced to slow down. The “slow down factor” varies from runner to runner, but in general, slowing down 30 to 90 seconds per mile is common in hot/humid weather.

Why are my running times getting slower?

Lifestyle is the most likely reason why you might be running slower. Stress, sleep, diet and so much more can have a profound impact on running. If your lifestyle habits are not congruent with your running goals, it’s probably time to make some changes.

Does hot weather make you run slower?

Heat clearly slows your race pace. Exercising in the heat increases the amount of oxygen we need since some blood flow is redirected from working muscles to the skin in order to cool our bodies.

Why are my run times not getting faster?

2. ‘I’m running harder, but I’m still not getting any faster’ The early miles of a half marathon often feel pretty easy. You’re not running fast enough to accumulate high levels of lactate and other metabolites; and, unlike in a marathon, you’re not running far enough to empty fuel stores.

Is it harder to run in hot weather?

“Running in the heat is indeed harder than running in cooler weather for a variety of reasons,” says Jason Fitzgerald, running coach and creator of Strength Running. For one, high temperatures and sunlight increase your core body temperature, which increases your rate of perceived exertion (RPE).

Why is running not getting any easier?

If running feels ridiculously hard all the time, most experts agree that it’s probably due to you doing too much, too soon. Research shows that your body “hits a wall” when it’s depleted of glycogen stores in the muscles and liver, which results in fatigue and low energy.

Why can’t I run as far anymore?

Common Reasons Why You are Running Slow
Not getting enough quality sleep. Experiencing too much stress. Not eating enough calories. Low iron levels.

Why has my running got worse?

Assuming you are in good health, the most likely culprits are overtraining syndrome or inadequate energy availability. However, it might be wise for you to be checked by your physician to make sure that you do not have blood, thyroid, heart or other health issues as the root cause of your change in performance.

Why am I in a running slump?

However, the most common reason runners struggle to get themselves out their slump is lack of proper recovery. Usually, it’s lack of proper recovery that started them on a downward spiral in the first place.

Why does running feel harder some days?

“The most likely reason you’re [having a hard run] is that your body is not yet fully recovered from the day before,” he explains. “The pounding you put on your body is a lot, and most of us need at least 48 hours to fully adapt and be ready for the next hard workout.” His suggestion?

At what age does running become harder?

The study found that between age 40 and 70, runners slowed by a linear rate of about one percent each year. When runners reached their late 70s, they began to decline by about 1.5 percent, and between 90 and 95, that rate accelerated to two to three percent decline.