GQ Magazine discusses what runners should know to keep themselves healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic, and ways to make your run more enjoyable, according to experts including Polly de Mille, RN, MA, RCEP, CSCS, USAT, director of the Tisch Sports Performance Center at HSS.

de Mille suggests connecting with fellow runners and friends digitally through apps and virtual races, and for beginners to start off slow. “You need to give your musculoskeletal system time to get adjusted. Your body needs time to adapt,” she explains, advising to try a walk/run combination (three minutes on, one minute off.)

As most races have been canceled or postponed, de Mille adds that experienced runners should ease up on intense training and to adjust their performance goals. “We’re all under a lot of stress. Your body doesn’t necessarily differentiate between the sources, and cumulatively can have an impact on your immune system. Even though we may have more time to train right now, it’s not the optimal time to kick things into the next gear.” de Mille recommends keeping things moderate and attainable. “You should feel better when you finish a run. If you’re feeling trashed you’re doing a little too much.”

Read the full article at GQ.com.