re: Worst outdoor running conditions

As others have suggested, dew point is the killer for me. Obviously running in anything over 90 regardless of temp is rough, especially in direct sunlight.

But I've had more runs totally shot by high dew point and not that high temps. (I typically don't even bother running in high heat.)

We are normally in MT by now for summer, and I'll run even during hot spells, as long as it's in the woods. Last July, I got started a little late on a 13 miler and got heat exhaustion. F that.

Yesterday, the weather in Atlanta was surprisingly good. I ran at 7pm--54 dew point 80degrees, all shade. I sweat like a freak, so I was soaked but it was great for June.

ETA: I just clicked to see if there was any more discussion on this and noticed a child had downvoted a completely innocuous post. Please take that shite to the OT. The Health/Fitness board is one of the last TD.com boards where we can act like adults.

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I'd rather run in 20 degree weather

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Even colder is fine.

Your body produces a ton of heat when on a long run. Any kind of insulated material will have you burning up in no time. I spoke with someone who runs marathons and lived in Ann Arbor, MI. They said it's actually a common problem up there during the winter for people to overheat on long runs. They bundle up thinking that -10 requires an eskimo suit but don't realize that their body and sweat will rise quickly to the overheated range.

The weather last week was miserable. Even at 630am, I was completely sapped of energy after the first couple of miles.

mid-low 30s and rain is the worst followed by
rainy - running the trails in mid TN in the mud is downright dangerous
90-100 and humid
0-15 deg - face hands and toes ache


Prime running is 30-70 degrees with low humidity

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Run 10-13 miles in mid 70's+ degree weather w/ 70-75+ dew point. Then try that again on a day when its 35-45 degrees, you will then understand. You don't even have to run 10, try 7-8. That's plenty to experience the misery of heat and humidity on your body/performance.

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I've done these things. I don't mind the heat and humidity. 8-10 miles in Savannah in July. 80 degrees and 90% humidity is fine with me. Could I run faster when its 35 and windy. Maybe. But that wasn't even the point.

There are plenty of people who are in between joggers and elite. Most in fact. And "any distance runner" is not the total opposite. Many or most? Maybe. Your circle? Seems likely.

I did a a 5k with my 8 year old yesterday about the same pace and he lost his shite over the humidity.