what heat index?

Last night I started to think that today would be a good day to blog.  Why? Because it's hot, humid and utterly gross out - so why not go for a run right?!  Yes, there is some sarcasm in that one.  Yesterday while I was at work I didn't leave the office all day from fear of wilting.  Luckily I have motivation built into my workspace because I run with a co-worker.  Throughout the day we had an ongoing conversation where it was agreed that we would go running after work, but the when was the variable.  Should we run right after work? Should we wait and run in the evening? Would it be better (aka cooler) to run a couple of hours after 5pm?  We had quite a few hallway meet ups where we bounced these questions around (our co-workers get a kick out of this - or maybe they just think we are a little nutty - could be a combination of both).

Eventually we decided to compromise and run at 6:30 after looking at the hourly forecast on the weather.com website and seeing that it wouldn't be back down into the low 80s until close to midnight.  I also looked at this wonderful little heat index chart (above) and saw that we were only in the extreme caution portion of the chart, not danger so that made me feel better.  This is where you fully appreciate and realize the dedication you have to running and the runner's bond that comes along with these experiences. 

I went down to Kelly's house (which is just around the corner from me) with a hydration pack (aka water fanny pack) and a hand held bottle for Kelly, because while I love to run I am not retarded and understand that even for a shorter distance with high heat and humidity cool water will make a huge impact on the overall run.  Why not set yourself up to feel good rather than shitty?  Good philosophy right - simple and to the point.  On a run in the heat there is little to no concern with appearances - which I really love. It is all about hair back, sports bra, shorts and sneaks.  Nothing extra or unnecessary which is probably why I always feel so badass after a summer run.  It is hot and most people are trying to stay cool, but instead your effort goes into getting your miles in.  We chose a route that took us along the water and out to Kingston Point Beach (where there is a solid view of the Kingston Rhinecliff Bridge).  We looped up Delaware Ave (where there is a pretty substantial climb) and hooked back onto Broadway for the home stretch.  What I haven't mentioned is that Kelly hadn't run since the beginning of last week so just getting out and doing a run is a huge accomplishment - now add on high temps, humidity, and unrelenting hills and you have our run.  It inspired me that she would just get out there and do it knowing full well that it would be hard.  Luckily while it was tough, running with someone really does help push you.  The beauty of this run was that is was a really strong run despite the heat.  It was just under 4 miles, but it was exactly what we needed it to be.  So good in fact that we went out again this morning!