Let’s be real, these are strange times we are living in. We are all getting stir-crazy and wondering when life might be a bit more normal. Many aspects of my life have changed, and even though I know it’s for the best, it’s been tough. I know that staying home and staying healthy is important to help “flatten the curve” of the pandemic. We are doing our part and making the appropriate tweaks to our routine for social distancing and living with the changes going on around us. Change can be hard! So, let’s get REAL as I share some changes (and some things that haven’t changed) as I continue running during this time of COVID-19.
Changes!
Running Location
Remember those posts about “connecting with nature” and enjoying my tree-lined runs? Well, those paths have all become very crowded. For my afternoon runs we now go to a nearby school complex. There they have wide streets and large, deserted parking lots where I can keep plenty of distance between myself and anyone else. It’s not ideal, but I’m grateful for an open space to run!
Timing
Speaking of that lovely tree-lined running path… if we want to enjoy it, we now must plan an EARLY morning to avoid any close contact. My husband now walks before the sun comes up to get miles on the trail before anyone else. I plan on getting up early for my virtual half marathon so I can snag some early morning miles there!
Races
I’ve been wanting to run a Rock’n’Roll Series race for years, and this year I was going to finally run one! Then it got canceled. Race cancellations are a necessity right now, but it was still a bummer to realize that my Rock’n’Roll goal would not be completed this April.
Recently, even pre-pandemic, I had been interested in signing up for a virtual race. Since my goal race was canceled, I signed up for a virtual half marathon! It might not be the same as an actual race, but it is nice to have a “goal” to achieve and end this 14-week training cycle.
Cross-Training
I used to go to the gym regularly and participate in classes. Since all the gym closures, I have been enjoying the wide world of youtube.com workouts! I’ve found some great channels for yoga and strength training that are totally free. It’s been fun seeing what is out there to explore and expand my horizons.
Walking
The only time I get outside anymore is when I go and do something active. Gone are the days of casual retail therapy strolls or even walking to lunch during my workday. Lately, my husband and I have been walking together whenever we have time. Our lunch breaks during the week have become a time to grab some sunshine on a walk around the block. Also, after I complete my runs, we have been doing a “cool down” walk. I love this change and hope we can continue to walk more!
Not Changed!
Number of Days
Some things have not changed, and my commitment to a run schedule is one of them. I run five days a week and will continue to run my normal amount of days until they tell me that running isn’t safe. So far, I feel lucky that I can keep my running routine; I certainly need it during these strange times!
Following a Coaching Plan
I started the Garmin Coaching program before the pandemic became what it is now. It’s been nice to have scheduled workouts to follow and a “goal” to pursue. Even though my race is canceled, I will run a half marathon distance on the day I was supposed to run the Rock’n’Roll Nashville race. My Garmin Coaching program has helped me feel productive!
Doing Strength Training
Even though some of the ways I strength train has changed, I am still making strength training a part of my routine. I have plenty of free weights at home, so I get upper and lower body-work in four days a week. I also do as much core work as possible since runners need to be balanced and strong!
Making it a Priority
One thing that will never change is running being a priority in my life. Even if my runs become shorter or less intense one day, I know how important they are to me. I continue to make running a priority, regardless of all the crazy changes happening. It is a part of me and an aspect of my life that I can continue to pursue and be awesome at, no matter what!
There you have it, some things change, and some things stay the same. How has COVID-19 affected your running life? Are you still rocking out some workouts? I know that running during this time of COVID-19 is not exactly a dream come true, but at least it’s SOMETHING to keep us grounded and sane! We are all dealing with this together, and we will get through it! Stay healthy and please social distance! Let’s each do our part to help flatten the curve!
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I’ve been enjoying running more instead of the boring treadmill. I do miss the stairmaster at the gym though. I feel like I’m in a video game dodging all the people. lol! Strength training is a huge part of my life, so it’s been a huge change in my routine. BUT, very happy I bought some weights for home. hehe! 🙂 Stay safe! xo
I can’t go out for a run since the lockdown here covers EVERY activity except for going to the pharmacy, the supermarket, or the bank. I could try an online training program, though. I don’t usually enjoy exercise. I had started doing Aikido and it was great, but now I just can’t. Thank you for your contribution! Sick people due to diseases other than COVID-19 are also a bad thing for the health-care system.
I used to run but haven’t in a few years. I’ve been enjoying getting outside for walks and I am trying to use the stair master I have in my house too. This pandemic is certainly making it easy to gain weight so I need to put in some concerted effort to change that! Great post!
I enjoy to read this article 😀 it gives me a good motivation to continue my exercises. It is not fun to do alone but it is necessary specially if l keep cooking much 🤣.
I love getting out in nature & your right, you have to pick the right time. Early am not too crowded
It would be great if I run during this situation but the prob is in my country govt. is very strict and I am also maintaining social distancing. So trademill is the only solution for me.
I miss my casual retail therapy strolls too! Great list for staying active. Fantastic article!