Running With Bugs

An unavoidable part of being outside is dealing with bugs.  Whether you're camping, picnicking, running or going for a stroll, you're bound to encounter some of these flying, biting, crawling, and sometimes fear inducing creatures.  Unlike Flik from A Bug's Life, I don't find bugs cute at all.  They are a necessary part of nature, but I'd just as soon they stay out of my way.

I've had my share of mishaps with bugs while running.  I've swallowed some, got several stuck in my eye, inhaled a couple, run through a spider web and unfortunately taken the spider along with me, been bit by some--the list goes on.

So what can we do about these pests short of nuking the earth with a giant can of Raid?  If you swallow one, be thankful for the protein.  If one gets stuck in your eye, keep blinking until the tears flush it away--only one of you will survive, and it's not going to be the bug.  Down narrow paths, be on the lookout for webs.  The bigger the web, the bigger the spider, so be wary.  Spiders don't want their hard work destroyed and you don't want to give them a ride.  If you're running in a wooded area where mosquitoes are prevalent, keep moving.  They don't usually light on a moving target.  If you stop to talk when you're done, you may be in trouble.  Mosquitoes are attracted to the moisture and lactic acid in sweat.  If they start to swarm, either cut the conversation short, or have bug spray close by.

Glasses, hat, insect repellent and an attentive eye will help you beat the battle of the bugs.  One last tip--if you see a swarm up ahead, close your mouth.  Swallowing one bug isn't bad, but you don't want to make a meal out of it.

Assignment for the week ((just like last week)

day 1 - run 30 minutes     day 4 - run 30 minutes
day 2 - run 40 minutes     day 5 - run 40 minutes
day 3 - run 45 minutes     day 6 - run 45 minutes

Those 30 minute days are your reward for pushing it on the 45 minute days.  Keep up the great work!  You're on a roll.

LACE UP and don't step on Flik!