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20 Reasons We're Sick of Summer Running

By Megan Harrington

In the dead of winter, post-run popsicles and longer days are every runner's dream. But by mid-summer, we are O-V-E-R the hot and humid weather. Summer running has its perks, but we've reached our limit.

Here are 20 things we definitely won't miss when autumn finally arrives.

1. Humidity.

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You know that saying, "It's not the heat, it's the humidity?" In many parts of the country, the temperature might not be that high, but soupy weather can make it feel like we're running in slow motion.

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2. The morning run has been stripped of its power.

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No matter how early we set the alarm, it's still too hot—and forget about noon running. In the middle of summer, even 6 a.m. isn't early enough.

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3. Salty sweat crusted on our faces and on our clothes.

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Salty sweat is annoying, but if electrolytes aren't replaced, it can also be dangerous. Someone get us a pickle, stat.

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4. Slow races.

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You can be in the best shape of your life, but if the weather is less than ideal, a PR or fast time is almost impossible.

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5. Mosquitoes, gnats and ticks.

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Whether they're feasting on us or we're accidentally swallowing them, summer bugs are the pits.

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6. Sunscreen in our eyes.

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SPF 15 is necessary, but there's nothing worse than having it drip into the eyes.

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7. Trying to remove a sweaty sports bra after a run.

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And it's even worse if you're in a rush.

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8. Tan lines.

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Whether they're from socks, watches or sports bras...nothing ruins a cute outfit like a tan line.

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9. All sweat, all the time.

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We may be able to get away with post-run errands in the winter, but when we're drenched in sweat, the only place we're headed after our run is the shower.

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10. The crowds.

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We're all for people getting outside and exercising, but warm weather also means our favorite trails and running routes (and bathrooms and water fountains!) are more congested.

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11. The aftermath of beach runs.

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A run by the ocean sounds perfect—until you realize you'll be shaking sand out of your shoes for weeks.

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12. Warm water bottles.

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Is there anything worse than finishing a run, taking a big swig of water or sports drink and realizing you left it in the sun?

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13. Tangled ponytails.

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When the humidity is high and your hair is long, no amount of conditioner will help.

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14. The temptation to hit the beach (or a friend's backyard BBQ) instead of running.

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In the colder months, running ensures we get fresh air, but during the summer, there are so many other opportunities to have fun outdoors. Doesn't ice cream sound better than a tempo run?

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15. Melted fuel.

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If you leave an energy bar in a pocket (or car), it's only a matter of time before you have to face the mess.

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16. Chafing.

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With extra sweat and fewer clothes, the summer months are prime time for painful chafing. Full length running tights, we're ready for you!

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17. Summer storms.

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Thunder and lightning are no joke—and a common reason for race cancellations.

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18. Lack of a schedule.

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Lazy days and vacation travel are fun, but they aren't always conducive to running. And it's especially tough if you've got little ones out of school for the summer. As we inch toward fall, we're looking forward to getting back into a routine.

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19. Heat radiating off the pavement.

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If you hit the roads during summer's hottest days, it can feel like you're being cooked from above (the sun) and below (sidewalks and asphalt).

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20. Tired legs.

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Summer is busy and most of the time that's good. But if you've just finished a 10-mile run, the last thing you want to do is mow the lawn or join a pick-up soccer game. Watching Sunday afternoon football from the couch sounds like a much better way to recover, right?

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