Maintaining a healthy state of mind and physical condition is vastly important in such surreal times as COVID-19 persists within the community.
To that end, those who seek solace courtesy of a daily run are urged to adhere to social distance requirements as stated by the HSE.
Speaking to the Athlone Advertiser, Moate Athlone Running Group athletics coach, Mick Murphy, noted the ethos of common sense running bearing HSE social distance guidelines in mind.
Run alone
Running is mostly enjoyed in a solo capacity. All you need is a pair of good runners and the road routes are endless. If you are concerned about meeting up with your usual athletics group the onus is then upon you to take to your preferred route alone. Let a music playlist or podcast be your new friend for the interim period.
Run with a dog
Your dog may start to feel as house bound as you during these isolation times. Take your dog on the run with you, inhale the fresh air all around and stretch those legs.
Run with a friend
If you do feel that you run best in company, be extremely mindful of social distancing. Stay six feet apart, be sure neither of you are coughing or have a sore throat prior to starting your run, do not spit and do not share water bottles during or after your run.
Run with two friends
Use the same common sense rules as noted and ensure you find a route that is suitable for use for three persons with regard to social distancing measures.
Bring hand sanitiser
Consider bringing a small bottle of hand sanitiser for use pre and post run.
In such surreal circumstances, running can be a real stress buster as social media becomes laden with stories laced with COVID-19 issues. With the clocks due to go forward this weekend and an extra hour of brightness ushers in, it will provide ample time for the fitness devotees to lace up and choose a jogging journey of choice.
