Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Reason for Running #9 --- Friendships

Running is a sport that can be approached from many different avenues. Many people run for the solidarity and time to reflect on the day, while others run to be a part of something that is continuing to grow among the world. I have mentioned before my reasons for starting running were centered around getting in shape for soccer, but I really started running after high school. That is when I started to understand the sport better and I had an amazing support and motivational group all around me that I never knew were there. First and foremost is my family, my father especially, he and I were able to become the best of friends through running. We could talk about anything during our runs together, usually things that were bothering me or football, but we still became closer in those first few years that I got him into running.

Then there was Jeff, one of my best friends and running partner, quite possibly one of the most driven and crazy runners that I have met. We had our friendly competitions and we were very encouraging to one another. He ran a marathon long before I did. Through him I met the group that my parents refer to as "The Running Bee" (like the Quilting Bee for runners). We called them this because during there runs, I don't think they ever ran out of stuff to talk about, encouraging us younger runners and challenging us in races (its bad when a 19 year old gets beat by 50+ year olds, but it happened...alot), this group was very tight knit group and they welcomed us with open arms, teaching us what they knew and telling us stories. Doran and I still remain friends and anytime I ask him, I am sure he would be willing to go for an easy 8 to 16...(no Birtha Hills authorized). Jeff and I then met Adrian who was not quite into running the way that we were, but he quickly picked up on the running fever that we had and became all about the competitions and races...and I know he loved beating me in his hometown race in Jasper and then the several races following. At one point he had become a part of the goal my father and I set to run a race in every state, but circumstances came between our friendship and unfortunately cut out a wonderful running buddy from my list of buddies. Who knows maybe he will get back into the racing scene and finish the states... My running buddy list died out as we all started getting older and going our separate ways, however, others have come into the picture.

Helping others is also a great way to build lasting friendships, sharing your knowledge, experience and drive with others helps to keep them motivated and staying with the support. And running with people of various levels and abilities help both you and them stay on the path of a healthier lifestyle. Starsha has been a supportive running partner who will call me up for a run when I am least wanting to do it, but she manages to convince me that we can do a couple miles, which in turn ends up being 4 to 6 and I feel great at the end of the run. She also likes to push competitions quite a bit, like running a race every month and such. I think she is just hoping to beat me and more races means more chances. She even made me run a race hurt to increase her chances...Okay so I did that on my own, but still...

Each of the people I have run with in the past and those that I will run with in the future hold a special place in my running career and have impacted me in one way or another. There was the group that helped me get back into running and lose my weight that I gained over the years I took off, the group that encourages me to race and push myself, those that encourage me to get out the door on that dreaded lazy day, and those that need me to help them get started or stay motivated. There is almost no end to the possibilities of friendships that can be started through a simple activity such as running.

Run On! Bring a friend along...

Friday, August 28, 2009

Reason for Running #8 --- A Cause

When someone comes up to me and asks me "why I run," I really do not have any specific answer to it...The obvious health reasons and helping to clear my mind are usually my common answers, but what really drives some people to running is astonishing and can be very inspirational. Running for a "CAUSE" is one of the best reasons to start running. Runners World magazine always has amazing articles that highlight various reasons why people run. Reasons such as raising money for Cancer Research because a family member is suffering, raising money for Scholarship Funds, Support the Troops Causes, and the list can go on and on... I have not yet brought myself to running for one specific cause, but each and every race that I do usually supports some well deserving charity and the race entry fees (though they have become higher over the years) really go to help the community in which I live.

Running for a cause is something that can get people started into running or to change running goals. People who start out to help others truly amaze me. I began running because of what it could do for me (get me in shape for soccer); not even considering what my running could do for others less fortunate around me. Even big races have gotten involved in various causes and supports for those who are in need or in service to others. For example, The Peachtree Road Race on July 4th in Atlanta branched out in 2008 (and maybe other years) to give those who were not able to make the race a chance to run it. I personally have never run the Peachtree Road race, but my brother has... PEACHTREE IRAQ 2008. The fact that the race sponsors were aware of our military personnel not being able to attend and taking the race to them absolutely amazed me. I thank the sponsors of that race for giving my brother an opportunity of a lifetime while serving his country in Iraq.

If you don't get out the door to run for your benefit, get out the door to run for someone elses. Run for the children who are sufferring from various ailments who would give anything to run just 100 meters, run for the soldiers who come home wounded both physically and emotionally, run for your kids schools, or for the charity of your choice. Some of us do not have a lot of money to donate to causes, but we have time and dedication that would make up for any amount of money in the world. Just think if you wanted to run a marathon to support cancer research because someone close to you is sufferring from the disease, you could sign up for a cancer research funding race and get sponsors from friends and family members. I think my running for a cause will be for cardiomyopathy research (my father is sufferring from this ailment).

Whatever the cause, get out there and run and show the world you care, show them how one person can make a difference in the lives of hundreds. Who would think that doing something so unselfish could benefit oneself so much (health and otherwise).

Run On! Run for a cause...

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Reason for Running #7 --- Competition

One problem that many people face when they decide to begin running is the idea of racing...or any competition. Most believe that they are not capable of completing a 5k road race, much less placing well in one. Unfortunately with professional sports hypes like Bolt and Goucher, we more novice runners feel intimidated. I for one would never come close to beating either one of them in a race (No I am not afraid to admit that Kara Goucher, a female, can completely demolish my butt in a marathon and probable every other distance). But we need not be afraid of a little competition here and there when it comes to running. Believe it or not (See Goals or Motivation Blog) competition can really boost our self esteem (though sometimes hurt it) and keep us on a running to stay healthy plan.

Competition comes in a variety of forms and I would never be able to talk about all of them in just one blog. Who knows, maybe I will get more in depth into some of these in later blogs. First and foremost the competition should be internal. The only person that you have influence during a race is YOU! Tripping a fellow competitor aside of course... You can sign up for a local 5k easily within 30 days of starting to run. That 5k is a starting point for you and your competitive running career. You may not finish 1st overall, but you will be pleasantly surprised at the outcome. You are racing a clock, not the person next to you. Keep in mind, though that with each race you do and improve, you will not always have better times. The U.S. 10k is not my P.R. race for that distance, but in 2002 (I think, maybe 03), it was the absolute best race that I have ever completed. Competition with the clock, how you feel during a run, how well you recover...All are what should be looked at when it comes to competing.

Now with the clock and yourself aside, it is always fun to compete with others in running. It gives you a chance to prove to yourself that you can do something. My brother and I have had some pretty friendly running competitions with eachother over the years. When he started out running, I was at my best, and he was just not quite in the shape he use to be (though he could out sprint me any day of the week, as well as kick my butt at basketball, if we ever actually completed a game without a brotherly fight). So for quite some time he was several minutes behind me in races that we did together. However, over the years that margin got smaller and smaller until he finally beat me. He even had me beat at our Alaska marathon, which I felt I was more prepared for then he was, but I just could not let that happen, so I busted my butt to catch up to him (we ultimately finished that one together, though he is credited on the results page as being in front). Once he beat me, the chase was on in the other direction with me trying to run him back down (yes I was able to, but the margin of difference between the two of us really is not that large anymore). The competition has kept us going at it when I know for a fact I have wanted to quit lots of times, and I could only guess that he has. Plus we have the friendly trash talk and bragging rights till the next race of course, but all in fun.

Competition, though it can be stressful, is a very rewarding aspect of being a runner and I would recommend to anyone who wants to run, to get out there and compete, don't just "run."

Run On! Competition will drive you....

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Reason for Running #6 --- Stress Relief

Each and every day people suffer from various stresses. Stress from work, spouses and children, speeding tickets, traffic, etc. I do not believe I have ever met someone that says they live a stress free life. Though I have met some who have found ways to cope with these everyday stresses. Sadly some people cope by means of drugs and alcohol, others through various stages of depression and solidarity. More positive methods of coping deal with turning to God (or high being of ones choosing), meditating, talking with people, reading, writing, and running...Yes! That is right I said "RUNNING."

Running is a method that I personally use, not saying I don't include some of the others, but running gives me a chance to be alone with my thoughts and to really dive deep into whatever might be stressing me on that given day or week, or sometimes even stresses that sit with me for over a year. I guess running is my form of meditating. It will allow you time away from the hustle and bussle of a busy day at work or around the house. Sometimes if you are lucky with having trails to run, you will be able to get away from exhaust fumes and become enthralled with the nature surrounding you. Seeing squirrels hunt for nuts, and deer just grazing (or whatever it is deer do), birds chirping as you go by, and the occasional snake (watch out for those), allows for you to think about the joys and the beauty in the world.

Recently my stress level went up about 10 times the amount it has been in a year and I started to pull myself away from the world initially, thinking of course that it was something I needed to go at alone; not taking into consideration that I have family and friends who are and will always be there for me through thick and thin, but from Thursday to Sunday, I could not even bring myself to get out the door for a run; finally on Sunday morning while having a typical sleepless night (or morning) I kind of forced myself out the door with my running shoes on and I was able to really consider what it was that was bothering me and how I would go about handling it with the help of my family and friends (not alone). The running that morning did me good and it gave me a relief that I was in much need of, though it did not solve any problems, the running helped to give me a more positive outlook on what lies ahead.

So next time life throws you a curve ball and things seem to be overwhelming you, look to running as a way to get away and think about things in a relaxing setting.

Run On! Leave the stress behind...

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Reason for Running #5 --- Versatility

Not many people would look out at a group of runners and say "Wow! Now that looks fun," but then again, not many people understand that running has so many avenues to explore. Runners can run in all types of weather, they can run pretty much in any location (I recommend avoiding malls and such, someone may think you stole something), they can run on vacation, at a beach, in the woods, through city streets. Running is pretty much limitless with the different areas that one is able to participate in the sport. Also racing brings up many chances to meet new people, to measure progress, and just enjoy being out there with people who love the sport of running.

When I started running, I was a Junior in high school and did so because my soccer coach thought it would be a good way for us to stay in shape during the fall. Initially I thought the idea was pretty crazy, but figured why not, I am not currently doing a sport in the fall, so I will give it a shot. I found that I could easily lose myself in a run through the trails, or in a nearby neighborhood, so much so that I was amazed at the miles I was covering without realizing that I had gone so far. Anyone of any size, shape, and athletic ability can start running (of course consult a doctor before starting any strenuous exercise plan, covering my butt with that one). When you start, don't go out there and try to sprint for a mile (won't happen), or run 10 miles (also pretty unlikely), just get out and enjoy the scene, change it up, get off the treadmill (Nordic Trac won't like that one) and get outside. Once you begin running, you will be surprised at how much better you feel, how less stressed you are, and how happy those 20 to 90+ minutes can make you. It is your chance to do something for yourself, and the options are limitless.

Run On! Test the limits of the run...

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Reason for Running #4 --- Goals

Today was national running day (well yesterday technically at this point) and during my run today I was thinking about more to add to my reasons why I run... Goals stood out in my mind more than anything. Not just time goals, race goals, or even just running goals, but goals in general. In order to move forward we must have a desitination. I heard on a movie (Peaceful Warrior) that the journey is what makes us happy, not the destination. When it comes to running, each of us set a goal, whether it be as simple as I am going to run today, or I am going to do this workout today. We always have a destination or goal in mind and we strive to achieve it. I have found that I tend to try to make those goals and destinations for others as much as I do myself and it can sometimes take the joys out of running for other people. I wanted my dad to run at least 5 minutes today, but was not taking into consideration that his back is still hurting him. What is the difference between 3 miles and 5 miles? To some... not much, but to others it could be a foot injury, or shin splint that can take them out of running for a given length of time. Each person should set their goals within their own realistic grasp... Unfortunately we all make mistakes when it comes to goal setting. In December 2008 I said that I would run a marathon on January 17th... I failed (only did the half) and I got hurt.

Goals are a good thing, but if you do not reach your goal today, do not stop tomorrow, always continue on that journey; that is what brings us the happiness. Never give up on the destination though. Every year thousands of people, if not millions, set New Year's resolutions (goals in disguise) and by March most have given up on their goals. Do you know why? Because they set a long term goal, but can only stay on track for a short time. Instead of saying in 2009 I will lose 50 pounds, set small goals like I will lose 5 pounds in 6 weeks. Just think, if one achieves this goal every 6 weeks, by the end of the year they will have lost 40 pounds... pretty close to that long term goal of 50 pounds. With running it is no different. If you want to run a marathon in December, but your longest race to date had been a 5k, start with small goals, like I will run a 10k in 2 months... Start small and you will reach the big goal.

Big goals for me include a marathon on every continent, an ultra run of 50 miles and 100 miles plus. Guess what...those will not happen anytime soon. Right now I am working with goals of increasing my miles each week. That means more and more time running and better time management. With each goal, sacrifices much be made, as well as accomodations for other activities.

Run On! Set goals and get out there...

Thursday, May 21, 2009

Reason for Running #3 --- Measurability

Running is an easy sport that you can see improvement in quickly. Especially in the areas of endurance, form, breathing, and overall fatigue. When you first start out you may only be able to run a quarter mile before you are huffing and puffing and conking out, however if you stick with it regularly, you will notice how quickly that quarter mile goes to a half, and how the half goes to a full. Progress in the area of endurance is easily noticed, but progress in form, breathing, and fatigue is more subtle.

When I started running, I had the worst form in the world. Running flat footed all the time, someone could hear me from nearly a mile away. Over time, I did not notice any difference until my mother pointed out how much smoother my stride had gotten and how the steps appear to be more floating rather than stomping. That was a great feeling when she told me that.

Another measurable component in running is timing. I did not actual start running until I was a junior in high school, however when entering my freshman year I joined JROTC and said that I would beat my brother's mile and a half Personal Fitness Test time of 9:04. "Yeah Right!" My first P.T. test time was over 16 minutes (Freshman Year), around 13 minutes (Sophomore Year), and then in my junior year I ran 8:41 for the mile and a half test. It can be done, and it can be measured. Every time you run for time does not mean that you will improve, but over time you should notice improvement based on effort. I still prefer endurance as my favorite test of measurability, because as one gets older, times do slow down.

Run On! Each step will increase to another...

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Reason for Running #2 --- Accomplishment

For anyone who has ever looked at someone running and said, "there is no way I could do that..." That is not a true statement! Most everyone can run! And the feeling you get when you do is amazing. You feel like you have accomplished something. Improved you health (see Reason for Running #1) or just had time to think. The first step is to get over the mental block of the "I can't" and get out there and start. You don't have to be able to go a full marathon on day one, but you could accomplish a 100 meters while and walking the rest. The first step toward accomplishing a running goal is to get out and start.

There have been many runners that have felt the urge to quit (I was one of them, even did for a while), but then they have a chance to reflect on everything that running has done or can do for them and it is the motivation that they need in order to get out there and do it. Don't get me wrong, there are many days where I feel like not running at all, but if I can tell myself to just go for 10 minutes, its amazing how quickly I can accomplish a run of 6 or more miles. Get out there and run, feel the sense of accomplishment you get from being a runner. It is a wonderful feeling to be the one running rather than the person saying, "I could never do that."

Run on! You really can...

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Reason for Running #1 --- HEALTH

I felt that this would be a great way to start out the reasons for running blog. About two years ago, June 2007, my father was suffering from pneumonia which apparently triggered a minor heart attack! Fortunately for him, he was a runner and had a pretty strong ticker, yet this attack has left him with a series of ailments for the past two years. He is not able to run like he use to and may never get down to the 5k times that he once was doing, but as long as he keeps at it, his doctors have told him that it will help push through the course of heart disease that he is suffering from, Cardiomyopathy.

Prior to that summer I was pretty competitive into running myself, at least in the road racing scene, and I was always worried about getting better and faster. That is good motivation, until you hit a plateau of sorts. I stopped running about a year before my dad had his heart attack and put on quite a bit of weight, from 165 to about 240, in a year and a half. After the heart attack I realized that I was not as healthy as I once was and being the ripe old age of 25 and a half, I thought I should do something about it! I am now running for health rather than time improvements (though they are still nice to achieve). I have hopes that one day, hopefully not, should I have trouble with my heart, the doctors will tell me that running quite possibly saved my life, like it possibly did for my father. I am proud to say that I am now down to 185 pounds and trying to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle, centered around running.

The first reason to run is for Health! No it does not guarantee that you will not suffer health related problems, but it definitely can't hurt!

Run on! Enjoy the start of a warm running season!