Should I run 6 miles in freezing rain while it’s dark with my kids?

I made it about 30 feet out of our apartment before I started to slide down a hill. Fortunately I wasn’t moving that quickly and was able to skid to a stop with Sean and Elena safe and sound. I knew immediately that my plans for a tempo workout (running at a pace I could hold for about an hour) needed to be scrapped. But would the run need to aborted entirely? I pondered my next steps as my feet found traction on the hill outside our apartment.

All bundled up for a run in the freezing rain

I had a number of reasons I wanted to run:

1. I love running.

2. Running in inclement weather is a discipline of mine – I don’t get to pick the weather for the races, so I shouldn’t try and avoid bad weather during training.

3. Sean and Elena both woke up early and desperately needed naps. (Those of you who have encountered tired 3 year old’s in their natural habitats know the importance of sleep). They wouldn’t nap back at home, so the double stroller was my best bet.

4. The double stroller provides stability in slick conditions, making it safer to run with the stroller than without it.

There were some real reasons not to run:

1. It was freezing rain.

2. The sidewalks, paths, and roads were bound to be slippery. This would mean slow running and potential slipping and falling. I would miss doing my tempo workout. I could get hurt.

3. It was still dark out and I don’t even trust NYC drivers when the conditions are good.

I was dressed a little differently...

I would love to hear from you – would you have gone for the run? Why or why not? Comment below.

I made the choice I would likely make 10 times out of 10 – I went for the run. It was slippery, but I never fell and took extra caution at crosswalks. We even met a new friend Sharon, who practices law seeking to procure rights and support for students with disabilities in the educational systems. Amazing! She was braver than me as she was running without the assistance of a double running stroller!

Sean and Elena both got their naps, which set them up for a more healthy engagement at home while Seth is in virtual school. It also set me up for better engagement during the day. I’m finding that during a season of renewed upheaval, distress and restrictions, the gift of running is significant.

I get to spend time outside breathing fresh, cold, crisp air and moving my body. I get to laugh and joke with my kids when they’re awake. I get time to reflect, pray and prepare for the day ahead. I get to be in-my-body and not just in my head.

I’m also glad it wasn’t freezing rain the next time I went for a run – it’s much more pleasant to run when my shoes can get traction and my jacket isn’t coated in freezing rain. But I don’t think Sean or Elena noticed any difference inside their double stroller blanketed cocoon!