Weekly Chat- Why we run

Monday, October 24, 2011 · Mike Davis

Hey Everyone,

The weekend is winding down and it was a great weekend for running in the Northeast!

Why do you run? I agree with most answers, and if I had to sum them up, I would say: “running empowers people”. If you spend any time on my website, you would know that I focus on exactly that, empowering people through their running.

When I lace up my shoes, do some lunges and start moving my Asics forward, I feel as if I’m ready to take on the world! Bit extreme, but being on the road while others are sleeping, watching TV, playing Wii running or something else, gives me the edge that builds that confidence. As I run, I tend to settle in to a place that allows for my mind to cycle through various problems, situations and other life stuff. Other times I think about my blessing, goals, and even my late Father. Sure I can do all of this stuff at other times, and I probably do, but running frees up my mind and allows (empowers) for me to choose my thoughts. Other times, people, phones, work or distractions make it difficult to channel my thoughts on the things I have mentioned. As I have written in the past, some of my best plans and decision have been thought through during a run.

Running also provides the ability to improve my mental aptitude. While many people come up with reasons (excuses) as to why they can’t run, I just lace’em up and run! I hear that it’s just not that simple, as people have bad knees, are busy with kids or just don’t have the time. Minus the 56 hours we sleep (doubt it), 40 hours of work, that leaves us roughly 72 hours to eat and whatever else we so choose. Choosing to take roughly 10 hours out of the 72 hours to run or workout is an important investment that will show great return. Exemplifying qualities to our spouses and children will have a huge impact on their lives and I hope through running I have done that. Last year my youngest daughter went from barely running 2 miles to running 13.1. She was scared and doubtful that she could accomplish such a challenge, but through much group support, she came to believe in herself and completed the Seacoast Half marathon. The physical challenge was probably the easiest; overcoming the mental toughness was what made her a runner.

When others doubt what they can accomplish, runners know what they have accomplished. This knowledge makes a difference and is something we don’t lose. So, running means many different things to everyone, but remember; you have empowered yourself by doing what very few are not willing to attempt. Many of you have run long, long distances, ran in ridiculous weather or logged a bunch of miles in and all because you wanted to be a runner. If you are struggling to get back on the road, think about that feeling that you got from being on the road. Lace up those shoes and empower yourself!

See you on the road!

Mike