Guest Bloger This Week! Thanks Jennifer

Sunday, February 05, 2012 · Mike Davis

The last race I ran was in December, it was called the Santa shuffle, and it was 3 miles, and to be fair I don’t even think I can say that I ran, it was more of a walk/run. I ran it with friends who are not runners and simply did it just to spend time together, so I didn’t mind walking some of it. Since December I have not run in any other races, it’s a little sad because there is a huge sense of accomplishment when you run a race. However, I have enjoyed not running any races and I have found a new sense of accomplishment. I have found accomplishment in the simplicity of running, I have found accomplishment in the solitude of running, and I have found accomplishment in myself. There is something about going out for a run and enjoying the chilly fresh air, the sun beaming down, and no destination or finish line. I have enjoyed finding motivation in myself to lace up my sneakers and run. I have enjoyed not having to worry about getting in mileage or worrying about not being prepared for a race. I have enjoyed simply running until my body is tired and wants to return home. I love races, there is nothing better than crossing that finish line and realizing that your time has improved since the last time, but there is also nothing better than realizing you have the ability to motivate yourself with out having something down the road like a race making you get out to run. Running is supposed to be fun, and I have gone through a lot of phases where I find it fun one day and hate it the next. I started to realize the times I hated running were when I was overwhelmed by everything else going on in life, but realizing that I did not have a choice about running, because I needed to get miles in so I would be ready for an upcoming race. The past few months with no races in site have renewed my fun for running and I have enjoyed running when I felt like it and doing other forms of exercise when I haven’t felt like running. Races are great, and I can’t wait to sign up for one, but right now I am enjoy the simplicity of running when I want to and finding the motivation in myself to hit the pavement. If you think you are struggling to find the fun in running, try to think about what makes it fun for you, and do it for that reason!