Florida running comes with some very unique and specific challenges. Sure, we’ve got sunshine, beaches, theme parks, but there are some other, slightly less pleasant factors, too. Do you have what it takes to run in Florida? Let’s find out.
Everything Is Lava
There’s nothing quite like the hat and humidity in the sunshine state. Things start warming up in April or May, and it keeps on going through the New Year, if not longer. The power of the sun is intense, and the air is incredibly wet and heavy. As we brace for this week’s “heat dome” event, it’s important to put safety first and not push too hard.
The Insects Will Swarm You
Not a run goes by that I’m not fighting off some huge and problematic insect. As the sun rises and sets, gnats and their biting cousins, no-see-ums, swarm, getting in your eyes, nose, and mouth. Mosquitoes the size of quarters love to feed on distracted runners, and yellow flies chase people, with painful stings. Some places have lovely fireflies, mystical dragonflies, and chubby, fuzzy bumble bees, but we have bugs that leave you with lumpy itchy welts and bad taste in your mouth. Florida running is full of bugs.
Rock You Like A Hurricane
Extreme weather is everywhere, in one form or another, but Florida has hurricanes. Obviously, running in an actual hurricane is a terrible idea, but there are a lot of things around the actual storm to worry about. Days of low pressure, high winds, and heavy rains can all lead to unsafe conditions. Standing water, downed power lines, lightning, and tornadoes pose threats to runner safety.
See Ya Later, Alligator
The reptile action is serious in Florida, and for every body of water you see, you can bet there’s an alligator lurking (yes, even in salt water, on occasion). Is there a chance that you will come across one of these reptiles in your path? Yes. And you just keep on going. Be respectful, don’t get close, and do not feed or attempt to touch them. Be cautious, especially in areas with lots of water, and during mating season – mama gators are super protective of their babies.
Lions, And Tigers, And Bears
Ok, it’s more like snakes, and bobcats, and wild boar, but you get the idea. Alligators are one thing, but there are many other critters out there. With so much development in the state, many of our wild animals find themselves displaced, which means they wander into neighborhoods and communities. I am always incredibly vigilant on trails and in wooded areas, because we do have bears and panthers, and they might not be thrilled with you on their turf. Be cautious. Keep your distance. Stay safe.
What are some challenges that are unique to your area? Ever encounter any of these? I have come across gators and bobcats on my runs, and I’ve run in the eye of a hurricane before.
Join us next week —> Share Your 2025 Mid-Year Review
Link Up With Tuesday Topics
This year, I am joining up with Zenaida, of The Running Teacher for Tuesday Topics! Please join us every week for a new topic!
I couldn’t imagine running in Florida in the summer months! We used to have an apartment in Naples, FL, and went there in the winter. Already then, a few steps were enough to be soaked in sweat. And these were the cool months!
Stay safe during the heat dome, Jenn!
It keeps getting worse and worse.
We have your weather… no hurricanes or animals – just heat humidity and bugs
Fortunately it only lasts a few days.
The bugs have been out of control this year. I cannot stand it when they get in my eyes! They even get around my sunglasses!
After seeing so many alligators on my rides this past winter while in Florida, I have a completely different understanding of them. I assumed they were always on the hunt and would attack if a human was anywhere in the vicinity. After hearing a few stories from some of the people we rode with, my fear turned more toward wild boars – two riders had been attacked on the very trail we were riding on just a few weeks prior.
Wild boar are terrifying! They are absolutely vicious and will end you without thinking twice.
It’s interesting how perspectives can change when you become familiar with something. You do have to be cautious, because gators are low to the ground and do blend in (I almost stepped on one once because I wasn’t looking directly down), and there is so much water here where they tend to live. But they are generally lazy and uninterested in people unless you bother them or feed them so they forget their fear of humans.
Oh my! My only complaint about the Summer here is the HOT weather.
And that’s a very valid complaint!