I’ve never been an outdoor runner. I’ve never liked the cold. I also have never lived through a pandemic. Oh, wait… Scratch that.
Maybe I should never say never.
Turns out, I have become an outdoor runner. Since I no longer go to my gym (and despite the fact that I still don’t like the cold), I am learning to tolerate outdoor running — no matter the weather — for my own sanity.
Before the pandemic, if I ran a 5k I would be thrilled. Last week, I ran 8.5 miles for the first time ever, and I was beyond proud of my personal best.
One year into the pandemic, I have learned a lot about running. I have also learned a lot about resilience. Many of these lessons are the same.
1. Above all, take care of your body.
Your body is your foundation. Sleep, hydrate, eat. Have a good breakfast, with complex carbs and fruit. Refuel and hydrate when you get home from a run.
2. Turn on good music.
My personal favorite right now is Hamilton. I’ve also been super pumped by the Mean Girls and Legally Blonde broadway soundtracks. Whatever you need to get yourself up and motivated, listen to it! Try new tunes to see what works, and don’t be afraid to change it up!
3. Wear layers.
You need to protect yourself from the cold. Wear comfortable clothing. Wear layers, and, as you feel more comfortable, remove your layers. Sometimes, to protect yourself, bundle right back up.
4. Listen to your body.
Some days, you won’t be up for a long run. Sometimes, your knee will hurt. Honor your body and listen to it. Walk when you need to walk. And don’t dwell on what you didn’t do.
5. It’s not all a sprint.
By all means, enjoy the bursts of a sprint. But also, know that it’s not only OK to slow down, it’s necessary. Recognize the value of both. The more in tune you are with your body, the more it will carry you through the long haul.
6. Celebrate your successes.
Be proud when you reach a personal best. Brag about it to your loved ones. Focus on your wins!
Motherhood is a marathon of epic proportions, but we can all run the 26.2 miles. Pandemic motherhood is a marathon none of us signed up for, and yet, here we are. We don’t know where the finish line is, but we can all get there. Let’s cheer ourselves and each other on as we walk, run, sprint, crawl, and run again. One day, we will cross the finish line.
