Heat is on for desert racing

When I am training for a big, overseas ultramarathon race there are many things to consider, from the logistics of getting to a far flung place, to sorting the right running gear and equipment.

- By KEVIN WEBBER

And, on occasions, the heat training.When I have raced in the Arctic, you don't have to acclimatise as it's all about wearing enough layers that you remain comfortably cool. Too hot? Take a layer off. Too cold? Put another on.

But my next race is a 155 mile, week-long race in the Sahara where it will get incredibly hot. During the race two years ago, it hit 62C and there isn't any shade. Fortunately, the humidity is low and our bodies, as long as skin is exposed, are designed to cool us down - as you sweat, the moisture evaporates, which has a cooling effect. That said, it is still blisteringly hot most days.