I think for me, the defining moment wasn’t anything to do with my pace or time or hell even the distance. It was everything to do with a why and how it made me feel. I was choosing this hard thing for no other reason than I could. I am able. I am grateful that I can and felt the clarity of it all.
The day you take your first step into running, whether you like it or not, you’re in fact a runner. When you accept the fact, something magical happens.
Runner.
Athlete.
Super Star.
Not quite feeling like you are there yet? A subtle mindset can help. Thinking about a warm up before your run. Start thinking more on pre and post nutrition. Foam rolling a couple times a week. Buying a running shoe that fits best and not based on the colour and style. These are some of the changes to make you feel more like a true runner.
It might not happen overnight or when you hit a certain pace or a specific distance. But the glorious moment that you decide you are a runner is like watching the sun setting in the desolate dessert. Or a sunrise in the rural country side. It will be that feeling like it has become completely part of you. You miss it when you are not doing it.
Every run takes on new meaning and challenges. It becomes an opportunity to change your life in remarkable and brilliant ways.
- Put on your damn shoes.
- Go for a run; pace doesn’t matter.
- Celebrate every little win from a new distance to less walking.
- As the best slogan in the world says; “Just Do It”.
- Repeat.
You have joined this running club that accepts you because you take action whether you are slow as hell, or speedy like the bloody Road Runner. You are far more alike than different. Every time you choose to show up, you inspire someone else just like you to do the same.
Coach Steph.
References: Run To The Finish, Amanda Brooks, Pg. 8-9. Hachette Books, New York.