It has been a few years since I’ve been crazy and antisocial enough to go running everyday in December. And yet, there are some incredible benefits which I hope to try and remember, or at least to have a go at justifying such a mad idea. I wonder whether I can persuade anyone to join me?
I think the benefits could be along the lines of:
- hugely satisfying
- a great way to finish the year. For me this will mean being fitter than I was at the start and this is important for me
- starts the new year – 2020 – off in a really positive way. I was fitter in 2010 but I’m fitter than I was in 2000
- it lifts my mood (not that I’m ever low these days)
- the joy of being out in the fresh air in the darkest part of the year is a great way for anyone in beating the winter blues
- a great way of burning off all those extra calories. I find running burns about 1,000 calories/hour and that will allow me to freely enjoy some mince pies!
- in previous Decembers when I have done this, I have even run early on Christmas Day when nobody else is around. This is a really special thing to do
- I always manage to find a new route, trail or road to run on. A few years ago I ran along a new dual carriageway, just before it was open for cars – could never run that route now its open!
- I never get bored doing this. I always mix up my runs and routes; short, long, fast, slow, or some with a few lung busting sprints. Parkruns very much count
- December can be an incredibly beautiful month. Crispy frosts, low milky sun with the countryside being almost completely dormant. It can be quiet, mild, storming or incredibly cold – I love all of the different seasons
One possible caveat might be snow and ice. I don’t really want any more broken bones and therefore if it is subzero and icey outside, I might drive to a woodland area where there will probably be a little more grip underfoot.
I think I might try and persuade some of my friends to join me, either in person or the virtual challenge. Might even set a new hashtag up…. #runeverydayindecember
