The Florida heat is no joke and can be the enemy of any runner.  If northerners struggle to maintain their running habit in the winter, then Floridians know their pain during the long, hot summer months when the  sun's fiery rays and thick humidity can derail even the heartiest of runners from their running program.

Florida runners can follow one or all of these tips to beat the summer heat:

1. Run early or run late.  To maintain your pace or distance, don't run during the midday sun and heat.  Run in the early morning hours before 9:00 a.m., or in the early evening hours after 7:00 p.m. when it is generally cooler.  The only exception to this would be for the person who is acclimated to being outdoors during the day.  The sun and heat zap strength quickly, making it difficult to maintain the same pace and distance a runner might otherwise be able to complete in cooler temperatures.
2. Run in the shade.  Whenever possible, seek out a running route that provides plenty of shade.  The temperature can be ten degrees cooler in the shade which can help you maintain your running pace and distance.  In the same way, running on cloudy or overcast days can be a welcome respite from the heat.
3. Hydrate well before a run and throughout the day.  Water, water and more water is the Florida runner's goal.  Drink up before running and sip water throughout the day to maintain healthy levels of hydration.  Get into the habit of adding a sports hydration beverage to your water.  This will provide the needed electrolytes and a little flavor.
4. Hydrate during a run.  Many products are available such as gels and water bottle pack to help you hydrate while you are running. 
5. Apply sunscreen before running.  Even a small exposure to sun can produce a sunburn, which in turn promotes dehydration.  Take care of your skin and your body by applying sunscreen before running.
6. Run casually, but with consistency.  Unless you are training for an event, do your utmost to show up and put the miles in as best as you can.  You may not meet your time or distance goal on a particularly hot day, but just showing up is beneficial in many other ways.  First, you did your body a favor by exercising.  Second, you are that much more acclimated to running in the heat.  And third, you jumped a huge mental hurdle.  By jumping that hurdle, you sent a powerful message to your mind and your body that will make it easier the next time to run in the Florida heat.

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