I think we’d all agree that in order for running to occur, muscles in our lower extremities need to perform a large amount of work. In order to perform such a task, these muscles require energy, at a cellular level. In turn, as this energy is used, heat is created as part of this whole complicated chemical reaction.

Simply put – working muscles make heat. Sound fair?

It would stand to reason then, that larger muscles would create more heat than smaller muscles. Basic mathematics really – large muscles are made up of more muscles fibers than small muscles which translates to more chemical reactions and more heat.

Therefore – large working muscles make more heat than smaller ones. With me so far?

Finally, the body also has all these wonderful fat cells where energy is stored. The cells tend to live up to their FULLEST potential on certain parts of one’s anatomy. It can also be argued that these fat cells provide an insulating layer, thus assisting in the retention of heat.

Let’s sum up: large working muscles make a larger amount of heat and fat cells help retain heat. Logical conclusion, no?

Why is it then, when the temperature reaches 10-15F (like -10C?), my buttocks turn to absolute ice, regardless of layers?

Let’s apply the theory:

Large muscles?: Gluteus MAXIMUS; even the name answers that with a YES.

Heat being generated by said muscles?: The sweaty undergarments confirm that one too.

Fat cells present?: In full force; on the most fat-cell populated area of my anatomy.

Baffling, no? It’s an absolute mystery to me; one that I ponder with each chilly morning run.

I guess this means that I’ll just spend the rest of the winter with a fleece shirt tied around my waist, unless anyone else has any better ideas?

I'd been warming the bench since February 5th, when my lungs were invaded with a tough-as-nails infection. Usually, I have a difficult time convincing myself to stay off the roads when I'm sick. But this time, I knew right away that running was just not an option. Plus, I learned a lesson from watching what Thomas went through earlier this year, and I decided that the whole "above the neck check" is valid and reliable. (Remember: above the neck, run like heck; in the chest, you'd better rest!)

I finally ventured out for a short run yesterday, and only had to stop a couple of times to cough. Afterwards, there was a ten minute coughing fit but then it was over - mostly because I had coughed up what was left of my lungs.

This morning, the weather was rainy with an unseasonable temp of 57F - I just couldn't resist the opportunity to run in SHORTS in February. I coughed even less this time, so I'm going to consider myself officially on the mend and back on the playing field. Just in time too, as crankiness had reached critical levels.

I'd rather that this two-week hiatus had not happened at all, but as least it happened early on in my marathon training. Oh, that's right. I said "marathon." It's official. As long as school doesn't get too crazy this semester, I've got the Nipmuck Trail Marathon on the schedule for June 1. I have no expectations for a finishing time; the only goal is to finish the race with all my limbs mostly intact.

Admittedly, I'm a little disappointed to not be running Boston again, but between the logistics of race day and the fact that I know I would want to re-qualify at Boston, I had to cut it from the schedule. As I push through this final, most challenging semester at school, I am keenly aware of my inability to handle too many things at once...so the sacrifice was made. The silver lining will be choosing a fall marathon for re-qualifying and PR'ing.