If my powers can handle it, my day usually start at 4:30AM in the morning. However, there are times that the hours in a day is just not enough, and the only time that I know I can get out for a quick pick me up run is at noontime.

I also opt to run at this time because our weather can be a wee bit crazy these days, and it rains like crazy sometimes in the late afternoon. An early morning run is impossible for me to do over the weekday – because of mommy duties and work. So, I make do with running under the scorching heat of the sun, right before I have my lunch.

Here are some tips on what to do and how to do a training run under the sun:

1. HYDRATE DAYS BEFORE, DURING and AFTER. Yes, even if it’s just an easy 3-5K – we need to be well hydrated even before we head out the door. And bring a small water bottle with you ALWAYS when running at this time.

2. LATHER ON SUNSCREEN OR SUNBLOCK. It’s better to be safe than sorry. You can easily get a nasty burn even if you just run a bit under the open Philippine skies.

3. WEAR SUNGLASSES WITH POLAROID LENSES. Doesn’t matter what brand you wear, for me wearing sunglasses cuts the glare better than just wearing a pair with UVA/ UVB protection.

4. WEAR REFLECTIVE CLOTHING. And make sure it’s light, just to help the sun bounce off your body instead of it absorbing it. I like wearing shocking pinks, blue and plain white when doing “heat training.”

5. BE READY TO BE GAWKED AT. Yes, people WILL LOOK AT YOU. Not because you look good or whatnot – but because you are are CRAZY PERSON running UNDER THE BURNING SUN’S HEAT in the streets of Metro Manila. A person male or female running at noontime is a RARE SIGHT for most Filipinos. So, if you catch them staring at you – give them a smile and a wave – and speed on your way.