The event Hotter'n Hell Hundred is one of the most iconic cycling events in the United States. The race is an annual event that attracts over 13,000 riders from all over the world and lasts four days. It is a great opportunity for riders to come together and enjoy the sport of biking. The 2022 edition takes place in Wichita Falls, Texas, from August 25th to August 28th, 2022.
Did you know that the Hotter’N Hell Hundred was named a Top 5 Bike Ride in the nation?
WICHITA FALLS WEATHER
How to Train for the Texas Heat
With the scorching sun of the Texas summer, endurance athletes know that training in the heat is tough. The hot weather makes it difficult for your body to cool itself down as effectively as it does in cooler weather. This can lead to muscle fatigue, making it harder to ride when it’s hot.
In a hotter climate, athletes will harder to make up for the inefficiencies of their body, which can lead to strain and even injury. It's important to take care of your body. When you know how to train in heat, it will pay off in the long run. It’s important to get in shape psychically, physically, and mentally.
Endurance cycling is a great way to get fit and have fun. But preparing for an endurance event when it's hot can be tough. Riding a bicycle for an extended time in the heat can challenge even the most seasoned cyclist. Fortunately, there are some tips on how to train effectively when you are in a hot environment and how to avoid overheating.
Keep Yourself Hydrated
The most obvious tip is to drink plenty of water before and during the event. Rest stops are set at every 10 miles and a little closer toward the end of the 100-mile route. Check the Hotter'n Hell Hundred Route and weather before you go, and drink something with electrolytes like Gatorade.
Dry, salty, sweaty, or otherwise overheated, you can quickly become dehydrated, leading to heatstroke as your body lacks the ability to cool itself. By drinking water before, during, and after your ride, you can stay hydrated and continue to be comfortable during your ride.
The Process of Choosing Your Gear
Wearing the right clothing and gear can help you stay comfortable and prevent overheating. The right gear will help you breathe more easily, use your body’s energy more efficiently, and keep your body cooler as you ride.
Clothing Choosing the right clothing is the first step to proper preparation when you are planning a long ride. Here are some clothing choices to make:
A cycling jersey offers the best of both worlds—it can keep the heat off your body while letting you feel more comfortable and look more stylish. Pick a jersey that is lightweight as this will make you more aerodynamic and keep you cooler at the Hotter'n Hell Hundred. As a general rule, the tighter the fit of your jersey, the cooler you will be. Choose the color that blends in with the scenery.
Shorts: Get a spinning pair when you're a beginner, but after a while you should be wearing cycling shorts. Look for ample ventilation to help you cool off. Your cycling shorts should have a zipper under the knee that lets you roll up the legs for extra ventilation.
Product Performance to Protect Your Best Efforts
Wearing sunscreen while cycling is one of the best ways to keep your skin safe when exposed to the sun. Kōru Performance created the Mineral Sun Barrier Lotion and Mineral Sun Barrier Stick as alternatives to traditional sunscreen you'll find in most stores. Make sure to use it before, during, and after your ride, and you’ll be well on your way to keeping your skin safe.
Did you know Kōru Endurance Lotion was designed specifically to buffer lactic acid?
Whether you're a weekend warrior or a serious roadie, you need to know the facts about lactic acid buildup. Although your body produces lactic acid naturally to help with metabolism, that acid is also removed from your muscles via bloodstream and finally excreted through your skin. A buildup of lactic acid in your muscles can be caused by a variety of factors, including hard training, hot weather, low carbohydrate intake, and dehydration. Despite the buildup, lactic acid does not cause muscle fatigue or cramping. The more you ride, the smaller the buildup, the easier your ride becomes.
Looking for a way to recover between the grueling race days? Are you having muscle aches, leg cramps, or joint pain post-ride? That's where our Kōru Recovery Lotion comes in the clutch. This all-natural, non-greasy, and non-toxic product will help you recover quickly without any side effects. Kōru Performance cares about your skin.
The Hotter'n Hell Hundred Guide Recap
You should now know how to prepare for the Hotter'n Hell Hundred in Wichita Falls, TX. Preparing for a long distance event in the summer heat like this requires a lot of preparation. Take the time to determine your goals and personalize your training and recovery options and commit to the training, planning, and logistics of a successful race.
Be sure to keep the race website bookmarked.