The "glamorous" side of running

Today's run was approximately 3.8 miles. I really should get a Garmin or a pedometer or something... Google Maps isn't always accurate. 

One thing I can't stand about commuting so far this time of year is that I usually get home right as the sun is setting. Since all of the treadmills in my complex's gym are out of order, I don't have any other option but to run outside. Luckily, the temperatures these past two days haven't been too bad -- mid 40s to 50s. Although my feet were pretty cold when I first set out, by the end I was comfortable in just the light clothing (pants, tank top, fleece jacket, no gloves) I was wearing.

However, this evening I was reminded of one consequence of running in chilly temperatures...

 

(From Flickr, apparently found in British Columbia, Canada)

Yep, that's right. The need to spit. I attribute it to the fact that I don't run outdoors with a water botttle, and thus have no other method of clearing my throat or mouth. I also tend to do more breathing through my mouth when it's cold. And who doesn't get a slightly runny nose when you're exposed to chilly temperatures for a length of time?  Apparently it happens to a lot of runners. Like this guy. And this one. Anyway, I have not always been super skilled at this, and I know I'm not alone. Anyone who has run outdoors for a significant length of time must have a gross story about attempting to clear their mouth and drooling all over his/her hand or shirt.

Luckily, there is hope! Presenting...

How To Spit While You Run:

1. Determine where to spit.
2. Look around to make sure no one is in your line of fire.
3. Spend a few seconds gathering your spit all in one place, preferably the middle of your tongue.
4. Launch it, making sure your lips and teeth are out of the way.

You can read the rest of the article here.