12 tips to Stay Cool and Beat the Heat *Start early on hot days, at sunrise is really cool! Finish you ride by lunchtime. Also, consider night riding... but use your lights... *Guzzle fluids before going outdoors to ride. Get off to a good start with your water balance. *Pick SHADY woods or forested areas to ride on HOT days. Go for higher altitudes where it may be cooler. *Carry more water than you think you need (at least an extra water bottle). *Refrigerate or freeze your water bottle or camelbak before you ride. A cold camelbak radiates cold to your back while riding, and the water is ice cold to drink. *Dip your shirt in a cold stream or lake or WHATEVER water you have available and put back on for a guaranteed CHILL! *Take frequent breaks and remove perspiration using headbands and wristbands. You can also soak these in a stream, and then wear. *Don't ride too hard, and stay close to your base - don't get lost. *Wear minimal clothing, wear white for heat reflection and tick detection. Take off your shirt when necessary, if female wear a cool sports bra. *If biking with a pet, remember they overheat faster than you. Allow them to drink lots of water, and encourage swimming if possible. *Leave a cooler in your car or camp filled with lots of ice and cold drinks if possible. Use extra ice, as a tent or car in the sun may reach 140 degrees. *Watch for signs of dehydration or overheating (headache, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, bonking, etc...) and STOP riding or notify your riding partner. Check out this tool to keep you cool - coolerbars.com or bodyteq.com More heat tips from IMBA |
