The ramifications of Covid-19 coronavirus on runners worldwide are huge. With no races on the horizon nowadays, many runners would be, no doubt, feeling a loss of motivation to keep up with their training and running. 

Jenny Huang

Avid runner and physiotherapist Jenny Huang is one of those affected, yet she has continued to push on and has still been logging the miles almost everyday.

She has had several races cancelled

Jenny had signed up for several races, namely the Income Eco Run (21km), 2XU Compression Run (21km) and the Safari Zoo Run (12km) but all were either cancelled or postponed because of Covid-19.

Also added Jenny, “I was thinking of running a close-by overseas 42km too, as I wanted to do a morning marathon vs a night-time one, as there are no other marathons in Singapore except the two night-time ones nowadays.”

Motivated by the need to perform at her best

I caught up with Jenny to find out what continues to keep her going during this period and what advice she can give to fellow runners.

Said Jenny “I am missing the adrenaline aspect of racing, but I am keeping myself motivated with the need to keep making sure my body performs its very best with each and every run. Honestly at this point, I am looking at my fitness watch more carefully and make sure my VO2 max continues to improve or stay at its peak of 63.”

Race cancellations are necessary

However despite her clear disappointment, Jenny agrees that it is necessary for running races to be cancelled.

She said, “I feel the races need to be cancelled during this pandemic. We all have to do our part to keep each other healthy and stay informed on what is best practice to support this amazing country in its healthcare.”

Build your base

For runners who are likewise affected by race cancellations, Jenny suggests that this is a good time for base-building. She said, “Use this time to build on your base, get rid of any injuries, self-reflect on what your goals are in racing and running.”

Continued Jenny, “Remember that there is no fear of missing out because no-one is racing and we are all in this together. Support one another and don’t shake hands when we see each other running. A wave and smile is awesome enough.”

Find out what works for you

As well, Jenny also adds that this is a good time to fight out what works for you, and if you’ve been experiencing any niggles during the racing season, then now is the time to sort them out and seek rehab, before you resume racing again.

For Jenny, she has been using a photobiomodulation therapy on herself, which she also offers at her physiotherapy clinic in Singapore, Hello Physio. She said, “It quickens recovery by four to 10 times after runs. I feel no fatigue with each run and my legs are lighter without soreness after long runs.”

Never lose your passion for running

Jenny stresses that while this is a difficult period, she advises runners not to give up on their passion for running. She said, “Keep a proper running routine as this helps our immune system and sanity.” 

Also continued Jenny, “Find new routes, push your body to do its best with hills/trail/road, because the route is yours for the making and creating. Also find new playlists; that is what keeps me sane during my long runs.”