Is COVID The Only Reason To Stay Cautious?

Is Covid-19 on or gone? Well, for some, it is; for some, it isn’t, for others, it hardly matters. The response to the same “intimidating” Covid-19 has changed drastically over time. Hence, it brings to the fore two main aspects for us to discuss, specifically prior to our much-awaited Freedom Run Season 2.

I) COVID On or Gone?It’s very much On, though we’ve adjusted ourselves to survive with it. It’s true that nothing can be permanently halted owing to a problem. However, it is also true if a problem is so grave that it impacts our health, and a solution as simple as following a set of measures must not be ignored. That’s what our COVID is!

II) Is COVID the only reason to stay cautious?Our second and main focus here - is following precautionary measures limited only to COVID? No, absolutely not!

Firstly, the corona is not the only virus that surrounds us. We survive in an environment that is a hub of germs & can attack us in any form at any time. Secondly, even the coronavirus is very much a part of our surroundings now; hence while we cannot entirely get rid of such pathogens, we can surely avoid COVID and other such infections.

Hygiene is the key - Precautionary Measures are our tools!

Maintaining basic hygiene standards is essential for everyone at every stage of life. It is a strength that contributes significantly to our holistic health.

Here, when we prep for our marathon - it becomes a vital segment pre, during, and beyond the run.

We come in contact with dust, pollution, dirt, and germs while running outdoors. Even while practicing on the treadmill our body is exposed to germs. Hence, there are a few very basic yet very significant measures that can help us maintain our hygiene levels. Let’s see 👀

• Taking a shower is a must
  Well, it is a must daily, especially with regards to the current weather. However, it is essential you prioritize taking a shower over other activities immediately after the run. If delayed, the dirt, sweat, dust, etc., can cling to your skin & may cause some unnecessary problems.
• Equip your handy kit with a hand sanitizer
  The current times have definitely defined sanitizer as a lifestyle product. Therefore, it's good to make it one 🙂!
• Be sure to groom yourself
  Being well-groomed is undoubtedly an asset. Here we’ll talk about the maintenance of three fundamentals that majorly contribute to a person’s hygiene.
  • 1. Nails
    Bacteria & viruses find it very easy to stick to your elongated nails. Hence, it is advisable to keep the nails of both hands and feet properly trimmed. Dirt through long hand nails can go a long way (I think we all know, let me not describe to generate an ew feeling) into your system. Long toenails do disrupt while running, in addition to the unhygienic aspect.
  • 2. Hands
    Ideally, I should have covered this segment before mentioning the sanitizing part. Anyhoo! 90% (or more) of our voluntary tasks do involve the use of hands. Keeping them clean is something never to be ignored, specifically while participating in something arduous as a marathon.
  • 3. Body Hair
    While running, sweat clings to our pores & hair follicles, making the respective areas a favorite spot for bacterial growth. Hence, it is recommended to trim your hair to avoid the development of germs, irritation, rashes, and the risk of infections. It is also a common belief that hairless skin is smooth and enhances your speed and performance.
• Don’t let body odor become a problem
  Use antiperspirants if sweat accompanied with body odor is an issue you usually face. They work the best when applied on dry & clean skin; hence it would be good if you use them at night before hitting the day and enjoy a fragrant sleep 🙂. During the day, if required, you may apply deodorant if needed to avoid body odor - it won’t help with the sweat. Talcum powders are also a good option to stay fresh & control sweat.
• Women Runners! Way to Go!!
  Not being gender biased 🙂, but women do need to maintain an extra level of hygiene, and that’s the hygiene during menstrual cycles. Do change regularly, no matter whatever product you use. If you are on periods during the run day, avoid trying a new product, it could be quite irritating, and do change as soon as possible post the run.

Hygiene is a crucial part of your run, & these small steps can make a big difference!

To Freedom Run 2022 🥂