I am a runner, often reluctant, sometimes struggling, always dedicated; at my core I am a runner.
I was first introduced to running at the age of 52 after watching an episode of The Biggest Looser. The contestants completed a 5K on a treadmill and inspired me to do the same. Never having run more than a mile (because I had to in PE class in the seventh grade), I climbed on the treadmill and got after it.
Proud of my accomplishment, I couldn’t wait to share it with my trainer the next day. His response, though, was not what I expected. And, while neither of us really knew it at the time, it would change the course of the rest of my life. He said, “I know. I saw you. Your form was terrible; get back up there.”
And, that was it. He began to teach me how to run, how to breathe and how to pace myself. We started working on my endurance and my form. Five years later running is not only a fundamental part of my life, but it has forever changed my life. I’ve been introduced to trails, adventures and experiences that I never could have imagined. I run with bad feet and arthritic hips. I run because I want to and because I can. A lot of times I don’t want to, and yet I still run. I am a runner.
Folks, especially those that knew me before, seek to understand the obsession. I’m often asked why I run, and I’ll admit that the question gives me pause. I suppose the assumption is that I run because I love it and I’m good at it. Whether or not I’m good at it is relative; but do I love it? Once my cousin asked me what I thought about out there. My uncle, who used to run, answered for me, “She’s thinking about how much it hurts and how much longer until she can stop.” Yep, that is 100% accurate; that is often what I’m thinking. And yet, when I’m not running I’m thinking about running - or watching other people running by when I’m driving (not smart) - or wishing I was running.
So, for all of you who run, or are thinking of running, or just think I’m crazy, this is why I do it:
I run because I can and for those who can’t.
I run to stay in shape and to eat … a lot.
I run to challenge myself and to console myself.
I run to get in touch with my thoughts and to escape my thoughts.
I run to be outdoors, to feel the sun on my face and to smell the trees.
I run to experience new places and for the adventure.
I run for the sky; I love the sky.
I run to be alone and to be a part of a larger community.
I run to fight my demons and to express gratitude.
I run to experience joy and to let off steam.
Sometimes, I run just to run.
When I’m mad I run fast, when I’m happy I kind of bounce and when I’m tired I walk a lot. Today at work I ran (in my work clothes and shoes) for no reason. I ran a quick sprint because I really, really wanted to and because I could. So, I did, and it was amazing.
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