Summer running

As the humidity sets in and the heat descends like an inescapable fog, the epitome of summer running in Minnesota is about to arrive. We had a three day cool spell to ease us into the summer running months, but with over fifty days still to go we will receive our first true picture of what we're in for. And, of course, I love it. I love the solitary early runs to beat the heat, the relaxed team runs filled with flowing conversation, and even the sweaty long runs that seem to last forever. Sometimes I even wish they really would. We've been running as a team. These first weeks are all easy miles as we adjust our bodies to the wear and tear of distance running. This is a crucial part of training because the body needs ligaments, tendons, bones and muscles that are strong enough to withstand pounding in order to complete training and ultimately get faster. The thing to remember is that these runs are not for speed, they are for strength. No muscular strength, like weight lifting, but for bodily strength in all ways. They should be run at a comfortable but strong pace, resulting in increased stamina and better tissues. They also help with mental strength. Distance runners need to train themselves to simply run, even when it's not desirable. Getting out of the house on a stifling summer day teaches the mind to push away the excuses of bad weather, sore legs, or general discomfort and just put one foot in front of the other. I'm very excited to see where this summer takes me and all the girls I run with because many seem very dedicated to this notion of paying summer dues for fall payback. Hopefully we'll see the fruits of our labor come the CC season!