In two months, I’ll be embarking on a somewhat different journey: running a race in altitude. I’ll be traveling from eight feet above sea level (literally) to about 5,000 feet above, and that’s going to be a world of difference. Will I run every day I’m in New Mexico? Probably not. But I do need to figure out how to run at least once.
Continue To Run Outside
I’ve debated moving to an inclined treadmill for my training runs, but honestly, I feel like running in the heat and humidity will continue to be a great workout for my lungs and endurance. To be honest, I’m not sure if the race itself will be flat or hilly (although I think it will be slightly more flat – I couldn’t find an elevation map), but it will be cooler on race day, and I think things will balance out. At least enough for 3.1 miles.
Hydrate More
Hydration is my nemesis, but I plan to take it very seriously. In fact, I’ve already started increasing my water intake so it’s not such a shock to my system. I want to enjoy my trip, and I know the altitude is going to throw me, if I’m not careful.
Be Mindful Of Sleep
Sleep is another area where I struggle, and it’s going to be extra hard on this trip. Everything we want to do is going to be super early in the morning and my excitement is going to get the best of me. However, solid sleep is going to the answer to so many things, including a good race day.
Adjust My Goals
At the end of the day, the best thing to do will be to slow down and listen to my body. Conditions will be intensely different than anything I’m used to, and I have to be ok with that. Ultimately, I’m in it for the experience and for checking another state off my list. If that means slowing it down, then so be it. I’ll have a few days to acclimate before I have to run so that will be helpful.
While I’m surely nervous to test myself in a venue that’s so different from my norm, there is also quite a bit of excitement. It’s going to be a great experience, and no matter what, it’s going to be tons of fun! I have a plan, and I can’t wait!
Any tips for running in higher altitudes?
Join the Runner’s Roundup!
I felt like Burn Your Half Off was the perfect first or community race. Everyone was out there for the love of running. No one took themselves too seriously, and it felt like family.
Link up each week to post your favorite running tips, experiences, race and training recaps, workouts, gear, and coaching ideas. Join your hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs, each week for the Runners’ Roundup linkup! Your link must be running related. Unrelated links will be removed. You must link back to your hosts — it’s common courtesy and a lot more fun! Spread the link-up love by visiting at least two other #running bloggers! Leave a comment and find new blogs to read! Use hashtags #running and #RunnersRoundup to stay in touch and promote your content!
I am so tempted by the Great Chase!
I’m born and raised in FL and ran a 5k in Colorado Springs that started uphill! LOL I just recommend taking it easy and stay hydrated (that’s what locals told me) and fuel up. Good luck!
Are you going to be there??? You should totally do it! Listen, I would rather start uphill than finish on an uphill!
I am going to be there!! Very last minute so not spending much time there (reward points to make it less spendy/crazy).
You are right, better starting uphill!
Oh my gosh! If you do the race, send me an email at runswithpugs at gmail dot com! I’d love to meet up!
The only time I ran at altitude was when I went to Denver at 6 months pregnant. So yes, it was very challenging but it was doable! It helped that there was no humidity and the weather was cooler. Hopefully you will adjust but either way it will be fun to race in a new place!
I’ve run in the mountains of North Carolina, and that was fairly humbling, but this should be good. Either way, New Mexico is getting checked off the list!
You will be fine!
Don’t forget, the heat and humidity in Florida have taught you one important thing: you know how to suffer and to deal with adversity. This will be an enormous help to you in those different surroundings.
Who knows, maybe you will thrive and run your best 5k ever?
OH HOW I SUFFER!!!! I hope it’s a great 5K! I am excited!
The big thing is to adjust goals. You’ll be fine. I ran in Denver and it was harder but fun.
Enjoy your vacation.
I figure it’s 3.1 miles. I can do that. And if I slow down, well, that’s more time for pictures.
It’s hard to train for altitude and hills when you live at sea level! You should be fine though. All your training and prep ideas are good and 5,000 feet isn’t too high. When it’s too hot here my running friend and I head to about 4,000 feet and while I can tell the difference it’s not debilitating. The the coolness should feel great after running in the heat and humidity all summer.
LOL! Not too high! It’s like Everest for us! I am so excited for the coolness, though! So what if I can’t breathe!