Czech doctor warns amateur runners of heat risk in 30°C temps

Pavla Vychodila, head of the anesthesiology department at the Institute of Clinical and Experimental Medicine (IKEM) in Prague, cautioned that recreational runners are especially vulnerable during the recent extreme heat wave, with temperatures reaching 30 °C and above. She warned that exposure to such heat can cause life‑threatening conditions, including liver and kidney damage, brain swelling, and circulatory failure. Vychodila advised athletes to avoid running in direct sunlight, to train early in the morning—around 6 a.m. when temperatures are near 20 °C—and to stay hydrated, using tools such as smart‑watch apps that suggest fluid intake based on temperature and exertion.

She cited the recent half‑marathon in Ústí nad Labem, where more than 40 participants required medical attention for heat‑related collapse and many did not finish the race. Similar adjustments were reported by local running groups, such as Run Parta Prague, which shifted to short shaded intervals and frequent water breaks. The doctor emphasized that elite athletes are generally better prepared, but even they face risks if they ignore the heat.

The guidance aims to reduce the number of heat‑related incidents as the Czech Republic experiences record‑high temperatures.