The further away from the Pacific you live, the more your chances increase of summer heating yourself out of a training run. Even in low humidity Southern California, the weather can get near unbearable at times (especially if you live in the Valley). I’ve been splitting my training time for my upcoming Fall race schedule between the South Bay and the North Valley. The ten-degree difference between the two places is definitely felt after 9am. For the days nearing 90 – 100 degrees I’ve decided to try my hand (or legs as it were) at aqua jogging.

Aqua jogging is a not-too-often used running art that comes highly recommended by some distance runners and coaches as a great way to prevent (or come back from) various running injuries. The act of “running” in water provides stability in addition to resistance training (remember why aqua aerobics was such a craze) not to mention a way to stay out of the heat on hot summer days. To begin, you’ll need 1) a pool 2) aqua jogging gear. For those who may not be keen on cost investment, I’ve also heard of some people utilizing pool noodles to some effect. 3) And finally, you’ll need an incredible amount of patience. Well, that is, if you are more land mammal than water creature. My swimming skills leave something to be desired, which is why I’m crossing-training in the pool this summer.

My first 30-minute foray into aqua jogging went as follows: First five minutes were spent fumbling with attaching aqua aerobic weights to ankles. The following ten minutes were spent asking my partner if I looked like I was running under water (while I was fumbling with my running form trying to keep my head above water). The five minutes after that, I avoided eye contact with the neighborhood kids who were doing cannonballs at the deep end of the pool. Finally, the last ten were spent just trying to finish.

Even with all the awkward struggling and wondering if I was about to aqua jog myself out of a suit (which reminds me I need to purchase a one piece), the workout was tough and I will definitely be adding this to my training repertoire. The only catch and downfall to this type of workout, is the lack of having mileage. Considering the increase in distance for my training (I’m aiming for 50+ miles a week at the moment), I can’t spare any miles for time in the pool. This is probably why those who are non-injured aqua joggers will tend to do these work outs on rest or cross-training days.

For more information on the how-tos and whys of aqua jogging:

Great article on active.com suggesting a twist on the brick workout.

Detailed form and how-to on aqua jogging:

Aqua jogger in full gear doing demo: