Running is similar to teaching…it’s purposeful, it’s motivating, and it provides happiness. If running is to be meaningful, then you are more likely to stick with it. Several positives come with running, including the desire to get outside and find beauty in the journey. I’m in control of where I want to run, and I get to experience all my senses. I’ve invested eighteen years into running. Being the captain of my ship and feeling inspired by its destination is reassuring. I continuously master new running techniques to improve my pace and heart rate.
Weekly goals are an essential part of being a runner. My belief is to do something to improve your fitness. Running a race gives me a positive vibe and hearing the upbeat crowd keeps inspiring and introducing me to some new running friends. My motto is to stay a healthy strong.
While training in the spring of 2019 for the 10km at the Manitoba Marathon, I asked myself what my goal was. “To finish,” is the usual response; however, I wanted to experience a personal best. I signed up with Nike+Run app for a seven-week moderate training schedule which involved speed work, strength training, and one long run a week. I gradually built up my mileage to 110km over two months and aimed to finish each run stronger than the previous one. Also, tracked my progress after each run. Running at a consistent pace when starting and increasing a bit of speed throughout is challenging. Spicing up my workouts was imperative to avoid boredom.
Each time I lace up to run, I find the energy, stamina, and confidence to continue to challenge myself. The goal is to capture the right moments to use my strength and push forward. Each day I run, I appreciate the scenery and the smell of fresh air. Harmonious passions make life worth living, but an obsessive passion plague the mind (Adam Alter, 22). Always tell yourself you can accomplish anything in life.
To grow as a runner don’t get caught up in all the latest gadgets, apps, nutrition, and training advice. Go out and enjoy the sport by taking a simplistic approach. To get motivated sign up for a race and you’re bound to keep moving.
To achieve my goal, I think like a coach and devise a plan for myself. What works for me is scheduling two runs and three cross-training strengthening sessions a week to challenge different energy systems and to avoid injury and burnout. Start 20 seconds slower than race pace and speed up each mile 10-20 seconds faster than race pace; the key is to build distance.
Enjoy your accomplishments and stay focused on the next step. Just do something to improve your fitness and push past your endurance. Race day is the positive vibe to keep you inspired. Some days it’s fine to run purely for the enjoyment, peace and positive mood it provides.
Run in the zone with a speed that feels light and sustainable for the journey ahead. No matter the result, running is worth it. Years later, I continue to run to be my best self. It’s a chance to pursue my own adventurous path. Getting and staying in shape changes one’s life.
Running should be enjoyable. Not every race needs to be a personal best. It’s so easy to get caught up in training; however, racing should be considered an experience. I love crossing the finish line. It’s exhilarating to hear finishers yell, ” I’ve never felt anything like this.” Whether it’s to get fit or to crush a personal best, devise a plan for yourself. Congratulate yourself for every run accomplished.
Races unites runners from all backgrounds, abilities and disciplines. Running and working out is a core part of my identity. I love the friendships that comes with running a race. The idea of everyone tolling through the strain of the journey towards their personal goals is satisfying. There is inspiration when you see the accomplishments of so many different kinds of people. Older runners still crushing their goals. New people, trying to achieve a different level of fitness and health. Motivation is everywhere. The mental health benefits are tremendous. According to Runner’s World, Jennifer van Allen states, ” researchers found that even a single bout of exercise lifts the mood of someone suffering from depression.” Researchers concluded that physical activity was not only an effective strategy to treating depression it also helps people cope with stress, anxiety, and boosts sleep quality.
Having a purpose behind each run brings consistency and discipline to make running easier and manageable. Goals are an essential part of being a runner. They help us focus, progress, and remain on track with our workouts.
The greatest gift that running has given me is a global community of like-minded people. I can strike up a conversation with just about anybody. We’re all in this together mentality among runners on a starting line. It’s great to be able to celebrate joys and successes together. Take advantage of your running moments.
_MM
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