The late Larry Olsen was a big proponent of over-dressing for workouts whenever he could. He may have had other proprietary secrets that he took to the grave with him. However I took the overdressing tip from him in 1995 when I trained for the World Masters Cross-country Championships. The first t-shirt/shorts day of the spring, I resisted the urge to enjoy that textile freedom. Instead, I wore my Jacket and tights. I continued to dress for 10-15 degrees cooler than the day actually was until the big race (July). I race very well that year, especially in the heat.
Now, University of Oregon Human Performance Lab lends scientific support to his idea.
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4 comments:
Bob, This is an interesting bit of research, I will consider it as I get ready for races next year. However, in winter, especially up here in Minnesota or in upstate New York where I went to college in the 70s, there is a big danger if you overdress in the winter. I imagine this is just as likely in Massachusetts. On the bitter cold days if you overdress you run the risk of sweating too much and then having the sweat drain the heat from your body. This is especially dangerous if you start out with the wind at your back and work up a sweat and then turn into the wind.
I have to warn new runners about this danger of overdressing in the winter. -prime
Sorry, I shouldn't have done a quick "drive-by post." I should have ellaborated upon how I used this tool. I didn't do it in winter. Larry gave me the idea the year I ran the World Cross-Country Championship. The first t-shirt/shorts day of the spring, I resisted the urge to enjoy the textile freedom. Instead, I wore my Jacket and tights. I continued to dress for 10-15 degrees cooler than the day actually was until the big race (July).
This is an interesting idea. I will think about it next spring and try to resist the urge to go for the shorts and t-shirt. Although that may be difficult. I have a couple goal races in May and June so I will try this 15° cooler idea as I get ready for them. Thanks.
Dave,
Sorry for the delay in getting back to you but I just finished 10 straight days of work without a day off.
Yes, it is difficult. You give up a certain aspect of enjoyment during your every day running for an improvement in performance during a couple of races. I only did it faithfully the year I trained for the WAVA world championships in Cross Country.
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