The Art of Adaptation
In the last week there’s been more than one request to switch 2020 off and back on again! The spread of the Corona virus has caused us to hit unprecedented times all across the globe. Whilst it goes without saying that as the pandemic unfolds, running cannot be considered a priority, however, it will be vitally important in helping a lot of the population cope with the situation. The value of fresh air and exercise cannot be disputed in it’s ability to clear the head, ease stress and improve both physical and mental health.
Below we will discuss the implications that the Corona Virus outbreak has on running and outline the key issues that could affect us as well as offer ways to help keep positive and cope through this difficult time.
Races
Let’s get this out of the way primarily, as arguably it is the least important factor. The initial anger and disappointment at a race being cancelled is understandable but deep down I think we all know that old gem “that there will always be another race.” A cancelled Olympics poses greater devastation but on a domestic level being marathon-fit at this time of the year is no disaster.
Under any normal circumstances there are always factors that can impact our ability to race. We can get sick, suffer an injury or personal problems can arise meaning that when we enter a race we are never totally guaranteed to line up at the start.
It will be disappointing but the amount of time and training you have invested over the winter, is no waste and the fitness you have gained can only be a good thing. The silver lining of postponed races is the better weather through the Summer and Autumn and longer nights which could ease the monotony of training and potentially even improve your performance at an Autumn staging of the race.
How to be productive
It is an unforeseen and unpredictable time, which can change day to day. Therefore nobody seems to have definite answers in how long daily life could be impacted making the situation hard for everybody. If we can’t plan for daily life we will definitely find it really hard to plan our run training. Trying to follow structured training at the moment could become disrupted and frustrating so instead try to embrace and appreciate whatever running you can do.
Countries across Europe are starting to need certificates and permits to be outside and high mountains are prohibited so as the Government guidelines stand now, we can still run outside. Try to do this by yourself or only with one or two individuals if possible and not in large groups. Utilise quieter routes around your local area and make use of small spaces with strides and hill sprints close to your home or drills and circuits in the garden. It’s worth mentioning here that you should be mindful of non-running neighbours who may not share your view that running is necessary. Try to explain to them where possible that it helps you cope and you are not putting anyone at additional risk of infection. There’s nothing like divided views on COVID at the moment to start an argument!
We can all use the time to work on individual weaknesses, strengthen our core muscles and improve imbalances that may have predisposed you to previous injuries. There are lots of home workouts being shared around the internet that are easy to do in the house or garden with minimal equipment. Aim to make some gains in all the small areas that get neglected when we are working full time, commuting and training.
Mental Health
Being outside is critical to our wellbeing, we thrive on the endorphins that fresh air and physical activity provide us. Therefore excessive time indoors could really impact our mood and even cause tension amongst relationships and families if asked to share close quarters over the coming weeks and months. As long as the government condones it, try to optimise your time outside exercising in the fresh air.
In the home setting a daily routine around the house could really help to structure your day. This could also help regulate meal times and diet, reducing eating out of boredom. If you are able to work from home, try to include home workouts or stretching into your day. If you are not able to keep occupied with work try taking up a new hobby or skill which can help stimulate the mind. Yoga or Pilates are examples of activities that can benefit runners in the long term and help reduce future injury risk. Listening to music and of course podcasts (!!) can also pass some time and prevent scrolling through social media and dwelling on every detail of every person’s account or opinion on the Corona virus.
We can only look to China for some guidance on the situation and thankfully there are signs of improvement with fewer daily cases, deaths and the reduced need for specialised hospitals. An indoor athletics meeting has even been held so there is light at the end of the tunnel. It is important to use the time productively, work on individual weaknesses and keep yourselves as physically and mentally well as possible in these difficult circumstances. Keep running outdoors as the government guidelines allow but be mindful that you may have to tweak your usual program or run alone.
Overall try not to dwell on negativity, be adaptable and try to embrace the opportunity to improve other aspects of your running. Running will help to minimise stress and anxiety during this period. Unfortunately, everybody will likely be impacted in some way by the Corona virus, whether it is at work, financially or your physical activity. Please remember that for some people it will be their families affected, so keep reminding yourself that we will run and race again freely in the near future.