--- In CoachMadDogBytes@yahoogroups.com, "bkunes" <bkunes@...> wrote:

<snip>

> The only thing that I haven't done, that may be of some benefit is heat
> acclimation. I don't expect it to be hot, but it could very well be
> warmer than I am use to. Any thoughts, suggestions?

BK ~ The key word in my question was "IMMEDIATELY" and you almost addressed it in the above.

It's my opinion that "Acclimation" is the process of getting use to what has already changed; while "Acclimatization" is the process of preparing for a likely change.

Acclimatize for you race – don't go to it having to acclimate to some unknown or last minute change in the weather. Even if it's not that hot on race day, the following suggestion will better prepare you for a good spring race effort.

Since the seasonal climate change you may be facing involves temperature and moisture (springtime). I suggest you consider acclimatizing in advance by altering the temperature and humidity level you are currently training in by wearing excessive clothing and by ensuring much of it is made of cotton. Excess clothing raises one's core temperature and cotton, unlike the fabrics we runners prefer, holds moisture next to the skin, which mimics excess humidity. This method of acclimatization usually occurs in a short time (about 3-weeks). Which I suggest should be followed by 3 more weeks of capitalizing on the artificially created conditions (sharpening).

Bottom Line ~ You can always put more on if it's cold - but you can only take so much off!

};9)