Thoughts on the Run

Places around the country are seeing record-setting cold temperatures. Colorado is no stranger to this. In fact, this cold streak is being referred to as “life threatening.” That should get someone’s attention.

Last week I ran Mt. Falcon early in the morning when it was a warm 29 degrees. Only tracks in the snow were that of deer. Then I found a trio of deer wandering alongside the trail. They are so used to people on this trail that they barely care. Their glance was more to see if I had any food they could snag from me. Sorry, none here.

It was a nice reminder of why I run trails … connecting with nature. Another way to look at it: disconnecting from the world. Sure, I have my cell phone with me. That’s more for tracking the run (run doesn’t count if not posted on Facebook) and in case of emergencies. Just watching the deer go about their business and stroll off the traveled path made me appreciate the nature a short drive from home. It even took my mind off the wind for a bit.

I have been playing with recording video on my run … here’s some video of me coming down Mt. Falcon:

While running down an ice covered mountain trying to hold an iPhone steady in front of you, there’s not much more to think about. For all I knew, a mountain lion was right behind me.

This morning, my plan was to wake up at 4:30 and go for a run. Here’s what happened:

1. Alarm went off.
2. Saw temp was -11.
3. Went back to bed.

For many, this is a normal morning … without the earlier alarm time.

I’m all for running and not missing a run, but unless that run is going to help me train for an event, I don’t have the motivation to go. I need that why in order to go through that. If I was training for a North Pole Marathon where temps where similar to that, then makes sense to train in the cold. I don’t have those plans. Well, except for that day I race in the 4 Desert Series where Antarctica is the last desert in the series. Registration for all 4 races cost $25k, so if there’s a big company out there that wants to partner with me to raise funds/awareness for charity then give me a call.

I don’t mind running in the snow and have done it a couple times over the past week, but if I can get more benefit inside then I will. Either way, the year is off to a fun start with many miles already under my feet.