Let me start off my saying that running and I have a very rocky relationship that I’m still trying to figure out. I was never a runner in high school, but I started picking it up once I got to college. Nowadays, I aim for two outdoor runs a week, and am working on making running my thing. To explain this relationship let’s begin with looking at running from the positive side.
The Best Thing:
1. The To-Do List
Telling people, “Hey I’m going on a run,” or writing “Go on a run” on your to-do list is very satisfying. Now, the actual activity is more of a mental challenge than a physical one. After you realize that you are physically capable of going on that run, it’s now 100% mental.
2. That One Song
Music is the only thing that can help you endure that one last lap, mile, or step. I’ve found that running to the beat of the music can be extremely helpful in keeping pace and feeling awesome at the same time. Toward the end of the run, you can play your all-time favorite. My personal favorite for finishing strong is “Portions for Foxes” by Rilo Kiley.
3. The Feeling After
Endorphins are a real thing and running releases a ton of them. Running helps clear your head and whatever you’ve been contemplating seems much simpler after you’ve released all that pent-up stress.
The Worst Thing:
1. The Untied Shoe, the Loose Hair Tie, the Broken Headphones and the Cold Weather
Not only does going on a run take mental energy, but it also takes patience whenever you face an unanticipated obstacle. For example, when you start and out and finally find your pace, your shoe might become untied. You didn’t plan for it to happen, but afterward you can’t seem to pick up the same pace again.
2. Running doesn’t solve everything
As much as I would love to go on a run and come back with zero stress, it doesn’t usually work out that way. While running can be an escape, there are some things you can’t solve with a run. But for the most part, things seem a lot better after runs.
3. The Actual Run
Waking up earlier in the morning and running is a great way to start your day – if you can get up. It isn’t something that comes easily to everyone, and you have to work through it in order to see results and reap the benefits.
So there you have it: the three best and worst things about running. I’ve been able to tackle the worst parts of it and want to think that I’m becoming a runner. My hope is to stay positive, and find new ways to make running exciting.