Training for an ultramarathon is hard.
Training for an ultramarathon during the summer in Texas is a different level.
When temperatures climb into the triple digits and humidity turns every run into a battle, training becomes less about pace and more about endurance, discipline, and preparation.
As I prepare for my next 100-mile ultramarathon, I've learned that surviving summer training isn't about being tougher than the heat. It's about respecting it.
1. Acclimate to the Heat Gradually
Your body can adapt to heat, but it takes time.
Start by exposing yourself to warmer conditions for shorter periods. Over two to three weeks, your body becomes more efficient at cooling itself through improved sweating and cardiovascular adaptations.
Don't jump straight into a four-hour run in extreme temperatures.
Build gradually.
2. Slow Down Your Pace
Summer is not the season to chase personal records.
Heat places additional stress on your cardiovascular system, meaning your heart works harder even at slower speeds. Trying to maintain winter pace during summer often leads to burnout, dehydration, or injury.
Train by effort, not pace.
Some days, simply finishing the run is the victory.
3. Hydration Starts Before the Run
Hydration isn't something you begin once you're thirsty.
Start hydrating consistently throughout the day, especially during heavy training weeks. During long runs, replace both fluids and electrolytes to avoid cramping and performance decline.
A simple rule: if you're training for hours, water alone usually isn't enough.
4. Fuel Early and Often
Heat increases energy demands.
Practice your race nutrition during long runs so your stomach adapts. Consume calories consistently rather than waiting until you feel depleted.
Your race-day nutrition strategy should already be tested long before race day arrives.
5. Prioritize Recovery
Recovery becomes even more important during summer training.
After long runs:
- Rehydrate immediately.
- Replace lost sodium and electrolytes.
- Eat a recovery meal containing carbohydrates and protein.
- Prioritize sleep.
Fitness isn't built during training.
It's built during recovery.
6. Carry the Gear the Pursuit Demands
Long training days often require more than just running shoes.
Extra clothing, nutrition, recovery tools, hydration, work essentials, and gym gear all become part of the process.
Explore our Riseaboveathlete backpack collection built for athletes who choose hard.
Whether you're heading to the trail before work, the gym after work, or spending all day chasing your goals, having reliable gear matters.
At Riseaboveathlete, we believe in building products for people who choose hard.
Because the pursuit doesn't end when the run is over.
Final Thoughts
Summer ultramarathon training isn't comfortable.
Early mornings. Long miles. Heat. Fatigue.
But growth rarely happens inside comfort.
The people willing to endure difficult seasons often discover they're capable of far more than they once believed.
Choose hard.
The pursuit continues.