Last Thursday, the AJC featured a story from Macon about Thad Childs, a man who has not missed a day of running in the past 32 years. That calculates to more than 11,800 days and over 87,000 miles. Thad’s dedication to running has taken him to the Boston Marathon and beyond - including a 100-mile race that runs through the Sierra Nevada.
Runners are known for their devotion to the sport. Rain or snow … morning or night … we hit the road to get our fix of fitness and endorphins. Running not only makes you physically feel better, it’s also a cheap form of therapy. Whenever I feel mentally restless or frustrated, a good run helps ease my mind and gain a refreshed perspective. Thad takes that same approach … combining the physical, mental and spiritual benefits of running to help bring harmony in his life.
This summer’s unrelenting mix of heat and humidity has made it tempting for me to skip my outdoor runs. Yes, I could try the treadmill but I’d much rather deal with Mother Nature than the monotony of running indoors.
So fellow runners, what gets you out the door? Is it the drive to keep up a streak like Thad’s? A desire to maintain (or build) your fitness level? Or something else?
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5 comments:
Usually the fact of having a plan to run with a friend gets me out the door no problem. I enjoy running by myself every so often but usually I make a plan to meet a good friend and I really look forward to that time out to socialize and catch up. Otherwise I am motivated to just get outside. It seems we are all inside so much with work, school, and household responsibilities but that daily run can be the one thing that keeps us in touch with nature, our neighbors, and our community.
Kelly:
Agreed. Running is sometimes the only opportunity I have to get outside. While I don't always get to coordinate my runs with friends, when I do, it's a great way to catch up.
Debbie
I tend to be a solo runner so it's really more about "beating myself" than anything. I also have a life goal of running at least one marathon so I do think every run is an important step in getting me there, even the painful, slow ones. Finally, with three little kids it's also a great way to get little bits of solitude, especially early in the morning.
All in all, lots of reasons to get up and out the door... even if it is to the LA Fitness to run on the treadmill (I actually like those runs too!)
While the thought of a treadmill run is not nearly as exciting as a run outdoors, it's the post-run "buzz" that ultimately motivates me. I flash forward to how my body feels post-run-- that "good" tired feeling where your body totally relaxes, and that's enough to get me out the front door. That and few sips of coffee before I start.
Nick:
I can appreciate the need for a little "solitude":) Another good reason to run.
Melanie:
Good point about the post-run "buzz". For me, the mental respite tends to be my reward.
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