I don’t look like a runner, but I run. In high school, the Track &Field coach let me compete in field events, like the javelin and the discus, but didn’t let me compete on the track. I yearned to be a capable entity for the quick sprints or even the 1-mile, but that never happened. Though times have changed and over the last couple of years, I have built myself up to a running advocate and devotee.
Running is a sport that is inexpensive, sans the kickers. It’s adaptable, you can do it anywhere, and it’s a mental and physical challenge. This year’s New England winter hampered my outdoor training, but typically, running outdoors, keeps me sane. So, now that the season has thawed and the days are bright, my "game" is rejuvenated.
Each weekday morning, the alarm sounds at 6 o'clock without warning. I stumble in the dark, try to gather my senses and find my sneakers so that by the time I reach the front door, I am capable of beginning my morning ritual. As the sun rises in the sky and early commuters zip down the street in their cars, I greet the new day on the road, sometimes with other runners, but most of the time alone. My outings last approximately 40 min, enough cardio to stimulate my system, and enough endurance so I can feel the burn. On rainy mornings, the story doesn’t change much except that I am forced to dodge puddles. When I return looking like a hot tomato or a wet dog, I feel a sense of accomplishment and I’m ready to begin my workday with enthusiasm.
While out running along the tree lined paths or down the flat boardwalk along side the beach, my mind wanders. I review imminent plans, past conversations, people and places that have affected me, or just clear my brain completely. On long runs, I leave my body, metaphorically speaking, and reflect at who I am today and what I want to become tomorrow. In this zone, I can only hear the tapping of my feet hitting the street and the steady rhythm of my heartbeat - everything else is drowned out. As the world and I move along in harmony together, I focus my eyes straight ahead, able to see more that just the miles the lie ahead of me. Momentarily, my thoughts are completely powerless and I have reached the ‘runners’ high.
While the lone runner can spend time visualizing her existence, an appreciation for life and movement, and the sensitivity of time and place; running with a partner or in a group can also be motivating. Even more so, getting involved in racing makes the daily training regime seem more beneficial and it’s a great source of inspiration for the recreational runner. It doesn't matter whether you are a rookie or have been racing for years, men and women of all ages and ability levels compete in local road races. Individual goals may differ; a few try to win, many race for a personal best, and still others simply want to finish the race. It doesn’t matter if you are lined up for the first race of the spring season or an annual autumn road race, each runner wants to be there, which is unlike the mentality of people you meet in the gym. Plus there is a genuine camaraderie and support for you, and the sport along the way.
Running creates an adrenaline rush for me, but once I get home and plop on the couch, reality sets in and my ‘runners’ high absconds. I’m left with a medallion to hang on my bedpost and the knowledge that I am an amateur athlete with a competitive nature. So it doesn't matter if I'm training for a race or trying to burn off tonight’s Tex-Mex and the beers, at 6 o'clock tomorrow morning my feet will be pounding the pavement — and I can't wait!!
