Responsible Fun Running

I haven't done any running lately...more so joined any fun run the past months. Had been quite busy with work and a lot of other stuff, the 'running' had to take a back seat.

However, I've read a few articles concerning a Milo marathon runner who collapsed 1km before the finish line (he ran the 21K mile). He died a few days later. Sad... my heart goes to his family.

Experts have started asking if running had become a dangerous sport? A number of people said yes... i think yeah, but this goes to all the other sports out there. And while a heavy burden of responsibility lies on the organizers (water stations, safe route, medical team, etc), Personal Safety is the Runner's primary responsibility. Nobody knows your body any better than yourself.

My two-cents worth:

- prepare and train -> get into the routine of running, get enough rest and eat right

- constantly hydrate -> don't wait to feel thirsty before drinking..drink-drink-drink

- listen to your body -> if you feel ill or think you can't make it any further, slow down; it doesn't make sense to go for the "second wind" and push your body. know when to stop...

- don't play hero -> if you're sick or suffering from any illness, don't go for any marathon at all --- there's a reason why organizers ask runners to sign a waiver.. they will not be accountable should anything happen to you in the course of the run

I am no expert runner, but these are some of the important things i have learned. There ought to be FUN in Fun Runs but it doesn't mean it has to be irresponsibly done.