Chronicles in Running - Part 1

I read an article a few years ago which said either you had runner genes or you didn't. I dislike when preexisting unchangeable conditions prevent you from doing something you love doing. I am always reminded of the Para-Olympians who don't let ANYTHING stand in their way of their dreams, goals and passions. I was a runner, then I fell off the wagon, the wagon of which I was able to do 3-5 miles at an easy pace and be cool afterwards. I haven't been able to run since. Every-time I would run 3 miles and injure something.What was I do wrong?

Too much too fast too soon. 

I needed to start slow and small. In three weeks now, I am able to do 3 miles, slowly, and steady, without injury. Yes there is soreness, but not injury. The secret is I joined an awesome group: The Towpath Turtles, based out of Akron, Ohio. This group runs slow, and believes no one should run alone. So running with someone makes running more than bearable, it's almost easy. We learn to slow our pace to a "chat-able- pace", we learn form, we warm up and cool down, stretch, and cheer each other on. The team work, socializing and sharing common goals help. Just to be able to run a little longer.

Everyone may not have "Runner" genes, or be built athletic, but this does not mean we can not work with what we have. It may take longer, we might be slower, but we are still trying. Which is better than just sitting around and not trying. 

Mentally it is a struggle, but now it is so addicting (after three weeks) - the runner's high. It is so worth it. It wasn't there before, at 1 mile per day. Now at 1.5- 2 miles and at 3 miles the runner's high is strong and amazing. It almost even keeps you going.

Another thing that keeps you going, is its February/March in Ohio, and it is still well below 30*F. So the only way to keep warm, is to run, and keep moving. My first run with the group was in a blizzard right after I had gotten back from California. The snow was in my eyes, and it was freezing. We completed running  with a few walks in-between; it was a memorable experience. I am that person that goes for a run in a blizzard.

The feeling of completing a run is fantastic. It is an achievement for yourself. One learns a lot of life lessons metaphorically, a lot of health tips, and a lot about racing. It may be tough to run at first, it maybe difficult to get motivated, it maybe challenging to understand why run at all. Once you start, it is self explanatory.

More to come!

(What do you want to read about running?)

Breathe!