Feeling self satisfied

The training session outside Windsor Castle last Tuesday evening was pretty gruelling. Hill training of 7 x 600 meters with a one minute rest  up the slope to the Castle Gate and back, proved extremely painful. You may say why would anyone want to put themselves through this level of intensity. I have to say I came away feeling very self-satisfied and as we chatted jogging back to the club so did everyone else. Running with a group of people provides competition that stretches, companionship that encourages and friendship that motivates. I am an advocate of regular exercise, I believe it's good for well-being, maintaining equilibrium whilst building up our mental and physical stamina. We also need spiritual exercise which is good to keep us centered on our deepest values. A good discipline around prayer keeps a well balanced perspective on priorities. On my latest run listening to an audio book I was challenged to spend time considering what are the things that are most important to me. I believe these to be authenticity, respect for others, loyalty and determination. I spoke earlier about feeling self satisfied and although some might say it's not exactly an abiding Christain virtue, I believe it's ok in certain aspect of life, because it is this that then help us to be self-less when it matters, putting others first knowing that God will take care of us.

Is Running in the Cold Bad for Your Lungs?

Have you ever been warned not to run in the cold because you will breathe in cold air and it’s bad for you? Perhaps you've even thought it yourself: At what temperature will the cold air damage your lungs? This morning I decided to test the theory as I set out on my 15 mile run in Windsor Great Park on one of the coldest run I have had endure for a long time. Actually I was fine, breathing out of my mouth and in through my nose I didn't experience any problems with cold air reaching my lungs. On my return with frozen figures, I took to the internet to find out more. Research shows that runners are not in danger of freezing their lungs, even in the coldest places on Earth such as the North and South Poles. Thanks to our body's brilliant design and adaptability, air reaches body temperature by the time it greets our lungs.

That said, cold dry temperatures can cause irritation in the airways.  Shortness of breath, chest tightness and a cough, can manifest itself in those who are less aerobically fit, suffer from exercise-induced asthma, or are currently suffering from a respiratory illness.

To prevent the runner's cough induced by cold, dry air, the advice is to wear a scarf or balaclava over your nostrils and mouth, this will help with the recycling of warm air.  The bank robber look may not be the fashion statement you were going for, and is usually only recommended at night when no one can see you. And if you decide not to go to this length, be assured, your lung will not be frozen. If you're in doubt or feeling under the weather, don't run. One day's rest won't cost you a thing but a couple of weeks off with pneumonia might.