Here’s a simple question. Why do you run?
How long have you been running, and what motivates you? If you’re a new runner, why did you start running? If you’re a long time runner, why do you keep running?
(Any of the 150 participants from the Running Start program reading this? We’d love to hear from you!)
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Simply I run because I love it. It is like meditation to me. I feel peaceful and calm after I run. I also enjoy the adrenaline rush of races.
I have only been running 19 months, I started so that I could run the Komen Race for the Cure in honor of my Father in laws long time partner. Also because I hated to run and felt if I could conquer it while honoring her memory that would be even better. After running the race, I decided to run another race and became addicted to races. Somewhere along the way I started to love to run.
My current motivation is to run faster and longer and to simply see what I am truly capable of. My mind set has changed from if I can only do…to let’s just see what I can do…
Like Lydia, my reason for running has evolved over the last 2 1/2 years. I started running as a way to support my neice’s father who was severely injured in Afghanistan. When he died 3 months later, we ran the army ten miler in memorium. So, although I began by forcing myself to run for Collin, I now run for me. I, like many in the PGRC, now enjoy the physicality of running, health benefits, and fellowship. I love setting goals and working for weeks to attain them, only to sign up for another! I, too, am amazed at what I’ve been able to accomplish. Never would have considered myself a runner before, but am now proud to say that I am…and I love it!
Cause I love the HURT!…
and it’s my zen time of the day. No ipod (usually), no cell phone, nooone to talk to, just me and my wandering thoughts…it’s devine.
I have been running on and off, a little here and there, for about ten years, but more regularly and doing races for three of four.
…because I can and should. I don’t take the ability to move (run, walk, swim) for granted and I am grateful that my body can do this (even though it doesn’t always want to).
…and because it – sometimes – brings relaxation and a feeling of physical achievement.
I’m with you Terri! I’m grateful that I am able to and hope to continue to be able to for a long time yet. And I’m looking forward to meeting and running with lots of local people in the club as soon as I can get my foolish schedule settled and get to some of the club events!!!
Don’t know why I run, but I do…. Really, I’m not sure what makes me wake up in the morning to do a long or short run. I’m amazed at what I’ve accomplished to date. I started out with the Beginner’s Program years ago and slowly progressed to 5k, 10k, 10 miler, 1/2 marathon and my first full marathon this past March. I can only sum it up to PGRC and the wonderful people that I get to run with …..
I began running at first because I had to in a specific exercise program I was in and I hated it! Then I had a friend that gave me a different perspective and made it enjoyable. Then I decided to keep running to keep my personal exercise program varied and interesting. I love to challenge myself with something new all the time!!!!!!!
I have no clue! It started as a personal challenge – could I run 1 mile? 5 miles? 10? 13.1? I think I’ll stop there. 😉 I was always motivated to go longer and, sometimes, faster. But now I am struggling with motivation these days. I still get a couple runs in during the week, but I no longer feel the peace coupled with exhilaration that I once felt. I used to be able to head out and lose myself and my problems in my run. Now, it is very difficult for me to complete a run by myself. I am a much better runner in the company of others.
Last night I did the fun run. I started out in a much faster pack, but didn’t feel like I was pushing myself too hard. As we got to the water stop, I allowed myself to lag behind (MISTAKE) and ended up running by myself. My pace slackened and I walked a lot. But if I caught up with someone, I’d pick it back up. I have become a lazy solo runner. 😦
I wonder if my love for running is diminishing or if we are just on a break.
Cass– I’m a lazy solo runner too. I walk ALOT! I wouldn’t be surprised though if your love of running restores when the weather gets cooler.