The Morning Run

At the moment the sun is still hovering somewhere over the Atlantic and thus daylight has yet to arrive today. But it won't be long. I much prefer running in the morning versus any other time of day. Although any time you are able to break away and get out for a run is a good time.

Mornings offer a freshness that comes with each day. Sure your muscles may be telling you to stay under the covers of a warm bed, especially at this time of year, but once you swing your legs over the side, it's all about taking on the day ahead.

A natural part of my morning routine is my trip to the coffee pot. I prefer to be the one to make the coffee as I can assure that it will be strong.  I cannot start a run until I have had my coffee. I have read reports that claim that coffee, or more specifically caffeine, helps to maintain endurance. Then there are those reports that link caffeine to the deaths of runners participating in a half or full marathon event too!  As with most things in life it's all about moderation.  Fortunately for me I think I have a built in coffee stop within me. For after the second or sometimes third morning refill, it no longer is the special treat as the first cup of the day.

Morning runs are also a time to relax, mentally laugh at those who have begun the chase of the day and drive by within their cars that are surely full of anxiety, pressure, and worry about what might be facing them once they arrive at their work place. The morning run is usually not a long one, not a fast one, not a strenuous one, but rather a relaxing one to start the day. Time to take in the sights of the neighborhood, parks, and perhaps notice something along the way that others will never see or appreciate. Like the two separate morning runs when I found $10 bill laying in the street!!

My morning runs may delay the start of my work day, but once I do start my work day I am able to attack it with new energy, fresh blood flow to my brain, and a vigor that cannot be matched by anyone who does not start their day with a run or similar venture.

The sky outside is now slowly evolving from total darkness to a bruised purple look, time for me to get ready to run. The only downside to running in the morning this time of the year is having to accurately predict which type and layer of clothing to wear. Wear too little and I will be uncomfortably cold. Wear too much and I will be uncomfortably too warm. I tend to over dress on these winter mornings, after all it's easier to unzip my jacket or remove my hat then it is to keep warm. Decisions decisions.

Time to hit the road and roam through town. My goal this morning is to simply run an easy paced 6 miles or so. I need only 20 more miles to finish 2011 with a total of 1,650 miles for the year. Six today, six tomorrow and 8 on Saturday is the game plan.

Thanks for stopping to read today, hopefully I have inspired you to get out and run this morning if not at some point today.

Run Happy.

Lee