Combine this with the increasing heat and humidity in some areas and this has you looking over your shoulder for the gorilla on your back. As the German philosopher Nietzsche stated, "That which does not kill us, makes us stronger". I don't know if I want to test that theory to its limit, but this concept is correct. If we can get through tough times and remain healthy we will become a stronger runner.
Below are a few hints about how to make it through the pollen and pollution:
1. Take it easy. It takes about 2 weeks of continuous warmer temperatures for your body to adapt to the higher heat and humidity. Use a heart rate monitor and run at the same EFFORT you did during cooler weather. Until your body adapts don't be a slave to the watch.
2. Run early or run late. Running in the morning you will have to deal with more humidity but with less pollen and exhaust fumes. Running in the late evening you will have less humidity but more pollution and heat, unless you delay your run until after sundown.
3. Drink extra fluids. Everyone who lives in an area of high humidity and high temps knows how hot and humid it is during the summer and that they need to drink extra fluids, but during the Spring the extra fluids will also help to keep your throat moist and to clear pollen.
4. Get naked!!! Well, maybe we shouldn't go that far, but you should wear light colored singlets and shorts that allow for evaporation of sweat, but you also need to protect exposed skin from the damaging effects from the sun. One of the best products I have found that provides protection, is waterproof, and allows for evaporation is Banana Boat Sport. (Wonder if I can get a commission?)
5. Be Smart!!! If the pollen or pollution index is in the red zone, think about going indoors or skipping the workout for that day. Exposing your respiratory system to the potential harm from these pollutants is not worth the risk.
See you at the races.....
Coach Will
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