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First of all- happy National Running Day! I’m celebrating by going out on a very short run- just a little shake out one since I have a half marathon on Saturday! Last year I wrote an entire post on why I run, so check it out if you’re interested in it! Running helps me deal with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome– it allows me to fight, to prove that a diagnosis can’t completely control me. Running is a time set apart for reflection, for happiness, for time in nature, and for mindfulness. Running is for stress relief and for freedom. I’m so thankful I took a risk in that first run, and even though I almost passed out, I kept going. I run for me, and I run because I can, even though it has to look different due to POTS.
Like I mentioned, this week is race week. I’ve never had a race week that’s been so hot/high in humidity before. This is obviously pretty nerve-wracking to me, especially with POTS. With POTS I don’t have the ability to cool myself down like I used to. I already have to consume more salt and fluid than the average person, so add in lots of sweating, and I’m curious to see how it’ll go. I do know that I won’t put myself in danger, so if I need to take extra walking breaks, and/or slow my pace down, I’ll definitely be doing that. I’ll likely carry my handheld with me so I can have some extra fluid in case what’s on the course isn’t enough. I’ll be carrying extra salt packets in case I feel myself getting dizzy. And I’m debating whether I should wear a tank top or go without a shirt… with my issues cooling myself, having one less layer of clothing might be really helpful. I’m still pretty undecided on this though. This week I’m doing all of these race week preparations and trying not to let taper get to me.
I’m craving a good bike ride, but I’m not allowing myself. I walked way more miles than I really should have last week, so I’m really cutting back this week. I find myself pacing around my living room a bit, and then force myself to sit down. That’s how it goes, I guess.
Melissa and me running Carmel in April 2014
Despite the concerns about the weather, I’m so excited to get to spend more time with (and race again with) Melissa (we ran the Carmel Half Marathon together in April… when it was much cooler, but with more hills), and hit the starting line again!
Now it’s your turn to share! Why are you a runner? Any hints for running in the heat?
I love your pictures and you’re fabulous and so inspiring!!! XOXO!!!!
Thank you!
Sending you calm vibes as you approach your race. You got it girl!
Thanks! I’ve never run a race in this temperature, so it’ll be interesting!
Good luck at your race! I’ll be thinking of you. My tips for stay cool during a hot run include wearing light clothing and pouring water on myself when possible. Sometimes I will even plan my route near the river where I know I can get a handful of freezing cold water and splash it on my arms and neck. The heat is definitely an obstacle!
Thanks! I need to remember to grab an extra cup of water at water stops to pour on me. It certainly is an obstacle!
Inspiring and beautiful! Thank you far taking time to share. I love to read why others lace up and sweat it out!
I agree! Other people sharing was what got me running in the first place! Thanks for stopping by to say hi!
ibid my previous comments. You are going to be amazing. Hope you have a great experience & your recovery makes you more resilient.
Nice job on your blog…you are very inspiring!
Have a great race! Running in the heat is tough – I usually like to start out a little slower than normal.. best of luck!
Thanks so much!
I think it’s wonderful that you run for us POTSies that can’t! Wonderfully inspirational. Good luck with your run!!