Random thoughts about exercise while running in a blizzard

In January and February, health clubs are the busiest they are all year. Many people commit to regular exercise as part of a New Year’s resolution. However, by March most fitness centers are back to their regular crowd. Most of the new exercisers have returned to their previous sedentary habits.

My family and I spent the holidays with my wife’s family on their farm in northwest Iowa. A blizzard, severe even for the northern Midwest, blew for three days. Nevertheless, despite the blowing wind, snow drifts and frigid temperatures, I continued to go on my daily runs. The weather was not pleasant: exposed flesh burned, my fingers hurt, and the wind took my breath away.

A few pickup trucks slowed down as they passed me. The drivers gave me quizzical looks. Then they waved politely when they realized I was out there by choice. I can only imagine what they thought of me jogging in whiteout conditions.

A person walking or running on the side of the road even in good weather is not a common sight there. One vehicle stopped to ask if I had car trouble and needed a ride. In such a blizzard, an unprepared person could die of hypothermia in a few minutes.

“No thank you,” I answered, “I’m fine! Thank you for checking!” Of course, afterwards I began to question my own sanity for being out in such conditions while everyone else is inside where it’s warm.

Why do some individuals succeed at initiating and continuing exercise whereas others do not? How can we encourage and support our patients in making such changes?

There are no easy answers.

Several years ago, I made a commitment to make regular physical activity a part of my lifestyle. I believe strongly in “walking the talk” when it comes to following the advice that I give my own patients. I am not perfect when it comes to following lifestyle changes; I do not expect my patients to be. It is easy to make excuses to not exercise, so I promised myself that I would not. Some weeks I am more successful at sticking with my exercise program than others.

Too many physicians demand their patients to eat right, exercise, get enough sleep, and stop smoking while they themselves do not follow their own recommendations. What hypocrites! Other health care practitioners may not give such recommendations because of lack of time and the high failure rate. Sadly, it is quicker and easier to write a prescription than it is to spend time explaining the merits of diet and lifestyle change.

I encourage regular physical activity, dietary and lifestyle modification in almost everyone. Of course, I do not expect my patients to go out to exercise in a blizzard or even to run. I try to be as positive and supportive as I can. Many people will be more successful at continuing exercise if they do it in a formal group. Others, like me, prefer more solitary endeavors.

No matter what your preference, it is never too late to begin. If somewhere along the way you fall off your program, no problem. Don’t give up on exercise completely, just start over. If you don’t “try” then you will never “do.” A little exercise is still better than nothing at all.

Now everyone: let’s get out and start moving!