Cycling in 100 degree heat...

I believe I've mentioned before that I enjoy bicycling; however, in central Georgia, doing any kind of exercise outside in the middle of the summer is extremely challenging. Before I start my bike rides, I make sure I've hydrated myself, and I make sure I take plenty of fluids. Usually I mix a nutritional fruit drink with water.

Drinking large volumes of water is a must for cycling. Nearly every calorie of heat you produce must be dissipated by evaporating water from your skin, which adds up to tremendous volumes for replacement: one large water bottle of 750 mL or 24 oz per hour of riding.

By the time your feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated! Drink water preemptively. Drink more water than you think you need, and you will simply pee out whatever you don't need. A good measure is that if you are not generating a relatively clear stream of urine every two or three hours, then drink more!

Sweat the Weight Off

I bet I've lost five pounds in sweat in the past couple of days. No, I didn't go to a suana unless that's what you call central Georgia. I've been helping my dad tear down an old outbuilding he had in his backyard. It was over thirty years old and was about half rotted down. At least it was cooler this week. The heat index was only around 95 to 97 instead of the 105 to 107 it was last week. Still with 100% humidity you do a lot of sweating. It was good exercise and it made up for the lack of good eating and activities that I have left off due to being extremely busy at work. Anyway, my dad appreciated the help and that reminds me, Happy Father's Day to all you fathers out there.