For the past months, runners, triathletes, and all Athletics have been training for different events. Has all the training been in vain? With the rising numbers of individuals contracting the Coronavirus (COVID-19). COVID-19 has ended professional seasons such as the NBA and postpone the UIL high school basketball champion games until further notice.

What does this mean for the racing season? Currently, significant marathons such as the Boston Marathon and London Marathon have moved their races to the fall of 2020; local races are being canceled, deferred, or giving runners the option of running virtually. Although any choice outside of running the actual race on an exact day is disappointing, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

How does this affect a runner's weekly training? Continue to run the miles, cross-train, and stretch, but now it’s time to also focus on hygiene and nutrition.

Hygiene

It’s back to the basics. Wash your hands regularly, for at least 20 seconds; you can accomplish this by singing the ABC song, and don’t forget to scrub under your fingernails.

No more high fives, handshakes, or fist bumps. Use your words instead to say hello, way to go, or awesome job.

Keep it personal. Sharing water bottles and drinking from the public foundation is a “no-no.” So, if you don’t usually carry hydration during training or races, it’s time to start.

Nutrition

Concentrate on eating a variety of foods that supports your immune system. Leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, and food rich in vitamin D such as salmon, canned tuna, egg yolks, and cooked mushrooms. It sounds like a good time to try a more plant-based or Mediterranean eating lifestyle.

Also, don’t forget to drink plenty of water.