Sunday is one of my favorite workout days.
I wake up at 10 a.m., eat breakfast, put on my exercise clothes and go for a long run. I usually hit the pavement by 11:30 a.m.
But today I stepped outside my apartment, walked a few steps and immediately went back inside my apartment. Why? Because the 90-degree Florida humidity was beating on my face the second I stepped outside, and I knew it was too hot to run at 11:30 a.m.
I enjoy exercise first thing in the morning. It gets my heart rate up, and I feel like it is a productive way to start my day. But I could not rationalize running eight miles in such hot temperatures. I probably wouldn’t even be able to make it eight miles, and I would finish my run feeling unsatisfied because I did not reach my goal distance.
Sometimes you just have to adjust your schedule. I had a lot of homework, studying and projects to work on, so I hit the books. I even left my running attire on so I wouldn’t get lazy and blow off my run later in the day.
My plan was to work hard all day and run at 6 p.m., when it wouldn’t be so hot outside. I knew I had to stay hydrated if I wanted to complete my run, so I had a water bottle by my side as I studied.
And finally, after hours of studying, 6 p.m. arrived. I was mentally prepared for this run. I knew the weather conditions weren’t the most favorable, but I was determined to complete my eight-mile run. It was at least a little cooler than 90 degrees, right?
This time when I left my apartment I didn’t come back five seconds later. My feet were ready to pound the pavement.
I have to be honest. It was tough, but I pushed through. I definitely miss the 60-degree runs, but I will eventually adjust to the heat.
And although it wasn’t easy, running was a great break from studying. I needed a mental break from the books, and I felt relaxed. I got into a stride and stuck to one pace throughout the run.
Sometimes adjustments in your schedule aren’t such a bad thing.