Donating Blood for Runners

Two or three times a year, I try to make a blood donation. Most importantly, I think it's a good thing to do. I've read that donating a pint of blood can save up to three lives. Blood reserves are finite, too. In other words, the blood must be used in a certain amount of time to be beneficial to someone. So there is a constant need for donors, particularly in the summer months. My blood is 0-positive, the universal donor, so it's particularly important to help out. I also feel it is good for you to donate. Consider it an "oil change" in your body. You're donating blood cells, and your body is eventually replenishing that amount, in about a month to six weeks. Thus, the 56 day wait in-between donations. You do feel a little light-headed after donating, and it's suggested to refrain from heavy exercise for 24 hours afterward. As it concerns running and fitness, any loss of blood, from bleeding or donation, will affect your performance. The amount of red blood cells in your system, and the amount of blood your heart can pump are the determining factors for oxygen delivery in a healthy runner. The loss of red blood cells is a (temporary) detriment, that is eventually alleviated as the body produces new cells. Simply put, donate in the week after a big race, rather than before, or schedule three a year during down times in your racing schedule. Don't let running or racing be an excuse not to donate - just to do it at the proper time!