For running enthusiasts, the pandemic has brought about a lot of changes in how we participate in this activity. Michael Capiraso has been active in the running world for almost three decades. As the previous CEO of the New York Road Runners (NYRR), he has some valuable advice for those runners that want to continue with their fitness goals.
Michael Capiraso credits running as being an important way to clear your mind and stay productive and creative throughout the day. The act of running creates endorphins, and these are important for stress relief. They also work at removing toxins from the body. The mental benefits continue even after the run is over. Overall, running provides so many benefits for the mind and body. Therefore it is important to still practice this activity during the pandemic.
Of course, it is very important to stay healthy. There are ways to stay safe during running. Firstly, for those that have not been running in the past, injuries can happen when starting if it is overdone, so it is very important to start slowly. Do not worry about the distance to start, but focus more on the time. There are other risks involved because of the pandemic, so it is important to still follow the appropriate social interaction guidelines.
Runners should also take time to rest and intersperse other fitness activities into their routine. Having the proper equipment can also keep you safe. This means appropriate footwear. Now, due to the pandemic, it also includes a mask. This safety now would also include making sure that you keep your distance from others. The appropriate recommended distance for running would be to stay about 15 feet away from others.
Virtual racing has become a popular thing during the pandemic. Joining up with a running group and taking part in this virtual racing provides not only a social outlet but also keeps you from feeling more isolated.
Shaking things up in your routine and finding a new route is a good way to add variety to your run. Running virtually is a good way to take part in races without having to actually participate at a physical location. With these events, people have a certain amount of time to both complete and then log the miles they have run. Fitting this type of race into your schedule is much easier to do. These digital-type forums give you the opportunity to connect with other runners all over the world.
Michael Capiraso explains that no matter what the activity, it is important to just get started. Continuing with a sedentary lifestyle can be damaging for both your mental and physical state.