May Day!
I love to run when the wind is blowing at about 8 MPH, when the sky is adorned with altostratus clouds, when the high temperatures are at 78 degrees Fahrenheit and when the humidity is about 10 percent. That describes my perfect exercise day.
I anxiously await the mild spring weather. I will know when the perfect day arrives because I will be in shorts; running longer, faster and happier. In terms of climate, it doesn’t get any closer to perfect in Georgia, than the spring days of May.
I’ve shared with you the multitude of excuses I’ve heard over the years that people use for ignoring their health; climate is yet another one. I’ve heard- It’s too cold, too windy, too hot and humid. It’s supposed to rain, it’s too bright; it’s too dark, I hear it may snow. Okay – so what’s choice number 2? What’s your backup plan?
I hate cold weather! There is a complicated science to layering without restricting movement. If I wear too much, I will burn up. You’re supposed to dress for the second mile, but what about that freezing cold first mile? If I underdress, it is likely everyone around me will know it and be punished as a result. The cold weather brings dry, chapped lips and reveals new wrinkles around my eyes.
Extreme hot temperatures don’t bother me as much but still bring other challenges. If you don’t exercise in the early morning or very late afternoon you could likely get dehydrated or suffer from heat exhaustion.
No matter the climate, I go. I exercise when it’s misty and rainy. I run in 100 degree temperatures. When it’s cold, I bundle up with 12 layers of expensive clothing with a blend of Climalite, wicking, anti-odor fabric – guaranteed to keep you appropriately warm. And, yes I even ran during the February ice storm days.
And if it is unbearable or unrealistic, (I know my limits), I exercise inside. If I have to march in place for 30 minutes, I will do something!
What about you? Are you waiting until Monday? Maybe you will start exercising to prepare for the wedding or reunion? Are you waiting for the new gym to open or exercise class to be offered? It could be you are hoping for some weight loss before you start an exercise plan—very bad idea, by the way. Maybe you long for sun and shorts.
Urgent news flash . . . . some things can’t wait! Don’t wait for bathing suit season, ideal temperatures, special events or other milestones to start an exercise plan. I hate to sound like a broken record, but go today. Have realistic expectations, be patient, do your best and be proud of your accomplishments; even if they are not perfect.
For questions or comments email: suzannemcginnis@me.com