LITTLE ROCK, Ark.- As Arkansas experienced one of its hottest days of the year so far, many residents stayed indoors, avoiding the blistering sun and sweltering humidity. But for a group of committed runners in Little Rock, the soaring temperatures weren’t enough to stop their training.
Around 6 p.m., as the heat index hovered past triple digits, members of Rock City Running gathered for their regular group workout, despite the heat advisory in effect.
“It’s Arkansas — it’s humid, it’s hot — but you learn how to prepare for it,” said Annette Blanton, a longtime participant in the group runs. “Hydration is a process. You can’t just drink 16 ounces of water right before a run and expect to be fine. That just causes sloshing in the belly.”
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Blanton says she hydrates throughout the day, alternating between water and electrolytes, and takes small sips during the run instead of big gulps. She carries a handheld water bottle on every hot weather run and wears clothing specifically designed to keep her body cool and dry…