Running has changed my life in more ways than would be immediately apparent.First, of course, on the surface I am more fit and have more energy to do the things that I am passionate about. But, digging deeper, I have really taken to taking care of my body. Not spiritually in the "treat your body like a temple" aspect, but more along the mechanical lines of "your body is a machine - garbage in, garbage out". I've found that if I have a long run upcoming the next day, I'll take better care to make sure that I am doing the right things. My first hungover 10+ mile run taught me that lesson very VERY quickly!
Next, in my ever busier life, running has become ME time. I am always doing something for everyone. Having a set running schedule gives me 10 hours a week to think through everything that is happening without the need to 'filter' out life's annoyances. If I want to think through an issue at work while running, I can do that. If I just want to listen to my footfalls and breath in and out, that is just fine too. Either way, I make the decision. If anything, in a life that offers me few decisions that are truly mine, running allows me to take control and dictate what, where, and for how long I go.
Finally, running has given me something to be proud of. I still never get tired of hearing someone ask "what did you do this weekend?" only to see the shock on their face when they learn that I ran 8 miles on Saturday and 15 miles on Sunday. Growing up, I was not a very athletic (or quite honestly very 'talented') person. I played no sports and participated in limited activities through school. (Go marching band!) Now that I am running, my dad has something to brag to his buddies about and I have an easy connection to hundreds of other bloggers who also share in my goals, successes, and more importantly, my failures.—Adam from Arizona
When I read Adam's story, I couldn't help but smile. You see, even though I'm a lot older than Adam, I could relate to his story on a lot of levels. When I was a preteen, I too was not very athletic. In fact, I was overweight (my biggest accomplishment was eating a twin bag of Lays potato chips in one sitting). I too was in the marching band. But like Adam, today running is a part of me. Keeps me fit and sane. Thanks Adam for sharing your story!
I relate as well. I never exercised as a teen, was chubby (or as my mom used to say, "You're just solid, honey." Just what ever teen girl wants to hear...), and to this day still can't catch, throw, or hit a ball. Which is why running is such a blessing. Finally feel like I've found "my" sport.
ReplyDeleteHey Dena! Seems like more and more we're turning out to be those twins separated at birth! You were "solid" and I was "husky." I still hate the word "husky." LOL!
ReplyDeleteA great post... I could have signed Paul at the end of that and it would have made as much sense... I have a lot in common with Adam and many other runners out there. Adam thanks for sharing your story... and thanks to Runner Dude yet again for giving us the excellent vehicle to share, inform and entertain! Thanks...
ReplyDeleteI love the line where he said that running gave him something to be proud of. I totally feel the same way and am glad that adam is a crazy runner like us all now! :)
ReplyDeleteGreat story! And the picture is awesome. :) It's really cool that his dad is bragging about his runner son...that's a wonderful feeling.
ReplyDeleteNice story! Running has a way of just keeping our health and minds in focus. I like the idea of caring for ourselves so that we can be strong and run stronger! Thanks for sharing...cute pix too.
ReplyDeleteNice Story. I really enjoyed reading this post.
ReplyDeleteI can so relate to the "taking better care of yourself." I feel the exact same way about myself and LOVE IT! Def. one of the side benefits of running.
ReplyDeleteAdam is a great guy. He always leaves awesome supportive comments on my running blog. I am glad to be able to read his story here!!!
ReplyDeleteThanks!!!
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