Snot Rockets For Runners
Runners blow snot. It’s what we do. Yeah, it’s a little bit gross, but sometimes it’s necessary — like when you’ve got exercise-induced rhinitis (which is a thing)
So, when you find yourself in a situation when both your nose and your feet are running, you have two choices: (1) Make a Snot Rocket, or (2) Find a tissue.
And, I know you’d rather not find a tissue.
Make Your Own Snot Rocket
The Snot Rocket goes by a lot of names. I’ve heard it called “the Arkansas Hanky”, “the Mucus Missile”, and “the Booger Blaster”. They’re all acceptable names. No matter what you call it, though, you want to make sure you’re doing it the right way.
Here’s the quick run-down for the DIY Snot Rocket. With a little practice, you’ll be shooting the boogers in no time.
1. Take a deep breath
Power is the key to success here. A dainty exhale won’t do the trick. Suck some wind and prepare for your launch.
2. Cover a nostril
Technique varies here. Press a knuckle or a finger against one side of your nose to close it completely. I prefer to use an index finger and, when I’m not running with an outer layer, I’ll often lift the bottom of my running shirt and pin it to my closed nostril. This keeps flyaway snot off my cheek (which is important).
3. Do the head tilt
Do not underestimate the power of the head tilt. A well-placed head tilt will be the deciding factor between disaster and victory. Too much tilt and you’ll fire on your arm. Too little tilt and you’ll shoot into your mouth. Also, be cognizant of the wind. You don’t want to blow your boogers into a headwind or, worse, your running partner on the left.
4. Let ‘er rip
Give a hard, concentrated exhale, directly through your nostrils. The snot will eject with great force. And, if you’ve followed the proper steps, your body will be 100% snot-free.
Rules For The Road: Snot Etiquette
Making a Snot Rocket takes skill. You won’t get it right the first time. But, don’t stop trying. And, remember — like everything else in running — there’s proper etiquette you’ll want to follow.
First, be courteous to other runners around you. Obviously, you don’t want to go blowing your snot all over the place while running in a group. If you must blow your nose while in group, step to the back of the crowd or to the outside first.
Second, Snot Rockets should be performed outdoors only. If your friend happens to invite you to run at his club on an indoor track and you blow boogers all over the lane, don’t expect to be invited back. And, of course, remember to laugh at yourself.
It’s not often you get to shoot boogers from your nose out in public. Celebrate a good one.
Have I missed any details here? Do you use a different Snot Rocket technique? Shoot me a tweet @dangreenoh to let me know.