Sunday, February 12, 2012

Oh So Cold...

Today's weather was a chilly 28 degrees when I went for my run. My friend, Amanda, had actually texted me in advance wanting to know if we could cancel the run since it was so cold. I really wish I had checked my phone, but I didn't. We set out to do 5 miles, and me after realizing I was miserable asked if we could change it to 3 because I was just too damn cold.

What did I learn from this cold weather run?
1. Anyone who likes to run when it is less than 30 degrees outside really should get their head examined.
2. I miss my compression gear. I  bought a compression shirt, which helped to keep me somewhat warm, but my pants were just regular windbreaker pants. I am pretty sure I saw the beginnings of frostbite forming.
3. The cold messes with your mechanics. Between the lack of compression gear and the sub zero temperatures my muscles were not working as well as they should have. It took a lot of effort to pick up my legs. I really had to work to go the extra mile :-) Sorry, had to throw that in there. But in all seriousness my shins, my legs, and my fantastic butt were all feeling fatigued. The weather also made it harder for my legs to warm-up. But rest assured, by the time I was done running I was warmed up and felt like I could go another mile or two.
4. Water is crucial. While I didn't sweat a lot, I felt dehydrated. I took my water bottle with me because I woke up this morning feeling parched. You know you are desperately dehydrated when you are willing to hold a refrigerated bottle of water when it is less than 30 degrees outside. But, without the proper amount of water it made me feel like I was already spent.
5. Sleep is important. I went to bed at 1:30 am last night and I was up by 8:30. Not too bad, but sleep is important and without the proper amount of rest it can leave you feeling listless. That's why experts recommend you sleep well two nights before your race. Apparently, no one sleeps well the day before a race.

Total: 12 miles

Happy Running!

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