In the world of running, we often find ourselves facing an age-old dilemma: should we lace up our shoes and hit the pavement even when we’re under the weather? I’m no stranger to this conundrum; for the past several years, I’ve been running a daily minimum of one mile, come rain or shine, and yes, even when illness strikes. Let’s dive into why I believe in running through the weather rather than under it.
When it comes to minor inconveniences like a cold or a mild stomach ache, it’s easy to make excuses and consider breaking the streak. But what about those days when the flu hits hard, and you can barely muster the motivation to get out of bed, let alone go for a run? It’s on these challenging days that the true test of commitment and consistency emerges.
For me, my daily routine is my preparation for the bad days. It’s the mental training that keeps me going when everything else tells me to stop. I don’t break any speed records on these days, and my pace may slow considerably, but I get it done. One mile, a mere few minutes of effort, and it makes all the difference.
The idea behind running while sick is not to push your limits but to demonstrate that once you’ve built a strong habit, it’s no longer about overdoing it. It’s about doing what you do. This is a critical point that varies from person to person, but it’s where consistency shines. Even though the mental torment might seem insurmountable at first, once you get started, it’s just not that bad.
Moreover, many studies and experts suggest that light exercise, such as a short and easy run, can actually be beneficial during illness. It helps improve blood circulation, clears nasal congestion, and can provide a mood boost. It’s essential to listen to your body and adjust the intensity accordingly. Running a mile when you’re sick is far from the same as running a mile at full health.
In my personal experience, maintaining my daily mile has not let me down. In fact, since I started this routine, I hadn’t been sick for four years until last week. Even though it was a challenging time, I persevered. I ran that mile, adjusted my pace to match my condition, and found that the effort wasn’t in vain. It helped me feel better, both physically and mentally.
Ultimately, we must learn to listen to our bodies and trust our instincts, not just what the doctors say. There will be days when running through the weather feels impossible, but it’s on those very days that your commitment and discipline shine the brightest. So, when you’re faced with the choice of running in the weather or under it, remember that consistency and determination can be your greatest allies, even in the face of illness.