Let Us Run with Patience the Race that is Set Before Us

With finals coming up in a couple of weeks, I want to remind you to stay physically active while we mentally prepare for our upcoming tests. I know it's not easy, but there are a lot of benefits to it.

For my jogging class, here are some facts that I learned about running that you might find interesting:
Why should you run? Here are the benefits of running: INCREASES red blood cell (RBC) count, hemoglobin,  and blood volume. DECREASES respiratory and resting heart rate.

Like running on the street? Face traffic so you can see what’s coming.

Are you wanting to buy new running shoes? Most significant design of running shoes is to absorb shock. Shoes should be snug, not tight. Not fit like normal shoe. ½ to full width of thumb between end of the shoe & longest toe. Also, feet enlarge as day goes on. Shop for shoes in the afternoon/end of the day.

Why do my legs hurt? Normal aches and pains from running: tight calves, gluts, and hamstrings. If it goes beyond that, you should see your doctor or medical professional. 

What's the BEST time of day to run?  Best time to run is the time that works for you! 

How should I breathe? It's a MYTH that the right way to breathe while running is to breathe through nose rather than mouth. The important thing is to BREATHE.

What should my form look like while running? The trunk of your body should be held steady/erect with a slight forward lean. You want to be running at 90+ cadence/minute. This means that within a minute, your left foot should touch the ground 90+ times. If it's lower, than pick up your feet more! Also, when swinging your arms, they shouldn't cross the center of your torso. Finally, keep your hands in a comfortable position (like your holding a potato chip). 

What surface should I run on? Here are surfaces ranked in hardness: Concrete>asphalt>dirt>sand (duh, right?). It's just something to consider if you're injured. I remember my doc once telling me to avoid running on concrete. I  could still run, just on softer surfaces.

What/when should I eat after a run? You should consume 100 to 150 cal of sugar within 15 min of workout. 

Do you drink enough water? Drink water before you get thirsty. If you're thirsty, you're already dehydrated.

What's the difference between running and jogging? There's no agreed upon speed when jogging becomes running. 

Want to burn a pound of fat? Walking/jogging/running 36 mi all burns 1 lb of fat (It doesn't matter the speed; what matters is that it's the same amount of work for the same distance).

What should I wear in hot or cold weather? Best clothing is synthetic because it wicks moisture. I know it's expensive, but it's so worth it on those really hot or really cold days! They also serve multiple purposes, not just running (i.e. rock climbing, snowboarding, skiing, biking, etc.)

Feel discouraged about running in cold weather? Give your body time to adapt to warm/cold weather. 

Ever been a runner but feel discouraged because you haven't run in a while? Here's some good news for you!   Running also follows the "riding a bike" concept. Our body remembers the principles of running! Just go out and do it!

If that's so, then why is it still so hard to get back into running? Because of the training reversibility principle. Sorry guys, but you lose the benefits of exercising after a week of two of no practice. Our body adapts well to what we do. It can be a blessing and a curse. So, although our body remembers the motion of running, we have to do it consistently to see the benefits. 

One of my favorite scriptures is Hebrews 12:1 when it states: let us run with patience the race that is set before us." I encourage you to run, hike, bike, climb, swim, dance, walk, jog, etc. to keep you sane these upcoming weeks! You can still sign up for the 10k (it's 6.2 miles!) in Moab this weekend too. Click here for the race information. 

Good luck on finals! And run with patience that race that is set before you.