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Not a lot is hotter than an Alabama summer, so why do crazy triathletes choose to compete distance and three sports in the mind-boggling hot and humid summertime? Well, it's because that is tri season.

A little advice from the experts at TRISUCCESS on how to stay safe:

You will probably need as much as 600-800 mg sodium/hr. You can still be sodium depleted if all you drink is water b/c plain water doesn't replace the sodium that you lose through sweat. The body will cool itself better when it is in electrolyte balance; avoid cramping and heat related illness.

Drink 2 gulps (4 oz) every 15 minutes (you can set a timer on your watch if you forget while cycling).



Carry 2 bottles on the bike - 1 water and 1 sports drink.

On the run: Wear a visor and take 2 cups of water at every aid stations - 1 for your head and 1 to drink. Carry ice in your hands to cool down, tuck ice towel around your neck.

During and after the race: You should eat some ice and try to drink COLD fluids.

Keep positive - Don't say the word "HOT" - remember how cold you were this winter - keep that in the front of your mind (seriously)!!