Multiple regions across Japan are now seeing temperatures hit 40 degrees Celsius, and with each year competing against the last for new record highs, what is a runner in this increasingly sweltering country to do?

Should we be resigned to spend our summers exercising indoors? Many community center gyms have treadmills in air-conditioned facilities that can be used for a mere ¥500 entrance fee, but one of the conveniences of running has always been its near-universal accessibility — you need only step into the right shoes, get yourself outside and start moving.