A bumper turnout on a lovely Friday morning so it shows that fears over Coronavirus not stopping you getting out. Perhaps some of you, like me, are more worried by the prospect of weeks of self-isolation that the virus itself!
Generally speaking those who exercise regularly are less likely to get sick unless there are other factors in play. Runners who are at the high end of a training programme or post race situation may be more vulnerable due to the stress that puts on the immune system.
At the moment my plan for SE Fitness is to keep sessions operating for as long as it is legal to do so and there are Leaders to look after you. I’ll put updates on the website, Facebook and Twitter should the situation change.
Everyone is welcome to join us although I would ask you to consider your own circumstances and act in accordance with the current guidelines. If you are in one of the high risk groups, live with or are close to someone in a high risk group then you need to consider your own safety and that of your family and act accordingly. If you are experiencing difficulty breathing, have a high temperature or cough please stay at home.
If you are joining us for a run or walk then follow these guidelines to help keep the risk to a minimum:
- Wash your Hands – Sutton Park is a natural environment with animals roaming free. We should always wash our hands directly after a run or walk but especially now and especially before you eat anything. This is something those of you who head straight over to Costa’s should definitely think about!! I’m trying to track down extra handwash / hand gel for HQ but if anyone has any they could donate I’d really appreciate it!
- Stay Outside – If you would prefer to stay outside rather than come into HQ that’s fine, however, please alert your Leader to the fact that you are there. Leaders tend to check the register to see who is in their group and if you’re name is not on the list they may not be aware they need to keep a look out for you.
- Avoid Contact – Generally we aren’t a group who go in for lots of hugs and kisses so let’s keep it that way. Not the time for handshakes or happy high five’s at the end of a sweaty run either!
- Cover your Mouth and Nose with a tissue or sleeve (not your hands) if you cough or sneeze Catch it, Bin it, Kill it.
Look out for Each Other
One final thing to ask is that we please all look out for one another. Your running buddies and walking friends may need you during this time. The virus is only one factor, the general feeling of uncertainty affects mental health and others will be worrying about the affect on their employment and financial situation. If you don’t see one of your buddies for a while give them a call or drop them a text to check they’re OK.
We’ll get through this together SE Fitness.