Back to basics

Sunday, April 01, 2012 · Mike Davis

Weekly Running Chat

Happy April! Today we turn the calendar, spring rolls into April and running continues to pick up. Some have been running all winter and some have waited, but hopefully everyone is now running. This week I’m going to get back to basics and hopefully it will help some of you.

First of all remember what running is not; running not about finishing first, losing weight or getting in shape. Running is; empowering yourself to challenge yourself both physically and mentally. Those things that I mentioned running is not, are all possible results of running, but running can be (and should be) a whole lot more. Most people that run to lose weight may or may not be successful, but chances are if it’s about a number on a scale you won’t stick with running. Running is about a way of life that builds you up physically, challenges your body to overcome and accomplish amazing things. Running a 5K race is amazing to those women that never thought they could run even a mile. Stretching out to 5 miles when you thought that distance was for serious runners and now the realization is; I am a serious runner! With more running comes more challenges, 10Ks, become fun and then some move up to other extremes such as a half marathon or even try some unique events such as a relay race.

Running is now keeping you in shape, you might be losing a few pounds and your name may even be rising in your age bracket, but what running is changing most is your life! No finish line running was founded on just that; the focus is not the finish line, but instead the idea that running is about the change it brings about in the individual. Physically and mentally stronger, empowered to succeed at any challenge and all by just lacing up a pair of running shoes. Does it stop there? Does the empowerment we gain from running carry over to other parts of our life? For me it most definitely does and I would find it difficult to it doesn’t for others that make running more than a reason to get in shape. The ability to take on a challenge, the commitment and the effort, all develop a mental discipline that comes with being “a runner”. Seek out one of those “How to Be a Success” books and these characteristics would all be vital. It all starts with lacing up a pair of shoes.

Another great benefit that running brings about is the social aspect. Increased time with a friend, new friends and even a great activity for couples can all come with running. I have worked with large groups of runners and I have witnessed many new friendships blossom and even romantic relationships. I have gained many new friends through running and I truly believe the running community is some of the nicest people around. It’s very easy as we get older to work and go home; running opens up many opportunities to develop healthy and lasting relationships. Some even use running as an excuse to hang out at a pub with friends!

For me running has changed my life and so many ways and I couldn’t picture my life without it. I enjoy the social aspect tremendously, I need the long solo runs sometimes to clear my mind and think through things and I have developed a discipline that has improved other facets of my life.

So April is here and if you haven’t gotten back on the road to running, it’s time. Next week I will move from getting out on the road to the practical parts of a running regiment. Also, I have posted the April strength training program and I highly suggest you consider some strength training along with your running. The benefits of both strength training and running are tremendous and the minimal time required is well worth it. Please let me know if we can help in any way. No Finish Line Running is about you and for you!

Have a great week!

mike