What’s something you feel differently about today than when you started running? It can be anything — how far you feel like you can go, the best way to have a good run, foods that help (or don’t help!) you experience a great run, or a mindset shift you’ve experienced.
I never chimed in! I now can run 13 comfortably! When I first started the idea of a 5k felt preposterous. Couldn't imagine running 3.1. Then I did - next hurdle was 5, then 6, etc. It is amazing the progress we can make with running friends and inspiration like The Half Marathoner!!
In recovery from shoulder surgery I’m realizing that I do actually miss running. Didn’t think I’d ever say that since it’s never been my favorite form of exercise, but now that I can’t do it (for awhile anyway) I’m envious of those who can, and miss the feel of the work on my body.
I think another month or more before I’m good to go. Maybe can start running in another couple of weeks tho. Running helped me keep off the Covid pounds.
So much! First, I didn't think I liked running. I started doing it for fitness. I was a walker, and as I wanted to add more miles and not more time, I started to run the downhills. Then, I started to run 1 minute out of every 5 that I walked. That turned into 2 minutes out of 5, and so on. Next thing I know, I'm running, but still not loving it. It wasn't until I started really running long distances that I fell in love with it and considered myself a runner. And, I only started running long distances because someone else, (my daughter) considered me a runner and challenged me to run a half marathon. This was only two years ago. I'm still amazed.
When I started running in 2014, I was focused on getting faster, that drove everything for me. I wanted certain PR's at every distance, and wanted to qualify for Boston. By 2018 I had achieved all of that and then some. And then lost my way. I was no longer getting faster, and I no longer had the desire to put in the time to maintain that level of fitness. I could not find my motivation. I floundered and was inconsistent in 2019 and of course much of 2020. I don't have it figured out yet, but I finally am finding joy in just running, and being fit, and getting to eat! Not in moping about not being as fast as my past self. And the Half Marathoner is part of this process. So I am thankful for this group.
Everyone runs for as reason... hell why would anyone who hates to run do it... I love to run and my reason for it has changed with age. When I was younger, it was all about the MPM & PR... now I just enjoy running because I can... I'm 70 and thankful I can lace up my sneakers and pound the pavement where a lot of people my age have a hard time even walking across the street.
I hear you on that, Jeff. I think it's natural to experience a letdown after you reach a big goal -- and by the way, qualifying for Boston is just flat-out amazing!!!!! It sounds like you have a lot you could teach us, especially for reaching for big goals -- and in running just to run and enjoy it. Really glad you're part of this.
Living in the Pacific northwest has changed my perception of what cold is!! Currently, anything under 18 degrees is worth a treadmill run. As a former California runner, with cold being more like 30 degrees...this is a switch for me!!
I've been running since I turned 40 (I'm almost 67 now). Back then, I told my wife that she was shrinking my jeans in the wash. She told me my mid-section was growing - not the jeans shrinking. From that day forward, I decided the easiest thing for me to do (since I'm not a "gym" person) was to head out the front door and go for a run. I never dreamed I could run a mile - let alone even one block. But as many of you know, sooner a later a mile turns into a few miles, which turns into a few more. I look back on my almost 100 full marathons, just as many half's, trail runs, fun runs, etc., and I still can't believe that "I" did them! Running has given me a unique identity that I would have never acquired if not for a pair of tight jeans. Things you think are impossible to accomplish - that you as an individual can't imagine doing - are, in reality in all our reach. And that goes beyond running. That relates to everyday things - simple and complex... You just have to believe in yourself... So, what was the questions again!
I am almost 80, and now starting to train for the Rock N Roll full marathon in November. (9th Marathon in last 12 years) My wife thinks I should “cutback” - well, at some point I won’t have any choice but until then I will enjoy my running. I have since I was 35
The truly strange thing is that I really didn't have any goals to start with. A friend of mine asked if I wanted to try running the LA Marathon. I figured, if he can do it, I can do it too. And I did... One led to another and so on. I had no idea what I was getting into!
For me, I've realized how important it is to run easy. Like most runners I thought to get faster at running, you must run faster all of the time. Now I spend a good portion of my running anywhere from 8-12 minutes per mile. I find it really helps me recover.
I finally allowed myself to be called "an athlete"! I've never been a real competitor and now that I'm older and transitioned from running to jogging/walking fast, at times I didn't feel as though I still belonged in the running community. That has changed. I'm where I belong among all variations of athletes and I will continue to participate in races until I physically can't. This blog means a lot to me and I'm encouraged by the members and their stories. I'm not alone in my goal for everlasting movement.
Oh, Belle you mean a lot to me (and all of us) too! It helps me feel like I'm not alone too, especially during this time when we've all been separated. There's room for everyone at this table. 😃
Wow, what an amazing & thought-provoking question! A few come to mind: I thought I was a "cold" person (but it turns out I can heat up pretty fast & pour sweat in freezing temps! It feels like an existence flex -- like I'm not so meek and frail/dumpy/passive after all! I generate all this heat & I Am a MACHINE!!!). I didn't think I was capable of running long distances, I didn't think my body was "cut out" for running. I never thought I would "like" running. I thought it would be boring, but I'm never bored. Pretty much every part of running has blown my mind.
Most of all I learned that when I think I "know" something (like "yeah running is not and never will be for me"), more often than not, I'm wrong, which is funny and freeing.
I love, love, love that this has happened for you, Edith. Like we've talked about, I think we get *way* too narrow a view of what running is from what we see in the media/social media/etc., and it's so cool when you can discover something entirely new about it, like you have. 😃
Congrats on finding your inner runner! Just curious...given your misgivings about running, what triggered taking up the sport? Asking because I felt as you described and started running to support my daughter's second ACL replacement on her right leg. 8 years later I find myself training for my first marathon (thanks to Clarissa and Terrell a few weeks ago) and realizing these have been the best 8 years of my life for all the reasons you state above. Thanks for sharing!
Congrats to you, too, Bren! I love hearing how people find running. It’s so unlike how I thought — I used to think all runners were very serious and always had been. I started because of the pandemic, and only grudgingly, because my gym closed and I was afraid of getting out of shape/getting depressed. Instead it was like 10 times better than my gym (and FREE), and I’ve been running almost daily since then.
Reading your comments on this newsletter and following you on Strava, I was convinced that if you weren't a life long runner, that at minimum you had been one for many years. I pictured you as one of the "serious" runners you describe. My mind is blown!
Ha! Thanks, Maria! It was a quick transformation & one I never expected. For what it's worth, I did barre classes for 4 years before this. It wasn't very aerobic, but I like to think it was good, if unintentional, preparation.
Biggest “mindset shift” is that I can still run…but have to take care of my body differently ~55 years later (69 this June). My “noon run” mentality for many years was to change as fast as I could, run as far and fast as I could in the time available, and then get back to work on time. Stretching? Oh yes…two minutes before if I remembered it. Now, I invest in me—I have to—both before (some) and a lot afterwards, to include using a roller. People tell me, “I hope I can do what you do at your age,” to which I say, “Are you willing to pay the price…to do what I do at my age?” Even after a nasty fall last week (hurt pride, skinned up and bruised, another iPhone crack, but nothing broken!) I am back in the saddle again. (That "darn" tree root!) The other change is that I have FINALLY learned to enjoy launching a run slightly prior to sunrise, something necessary in hot and humid weather. Not a fast learner…just an eventual learner!
Yikes, Howie! (About the fall you took) But I love the sunrise run enthusiasm. When HD television first became a thing, there used to be this show called "Sunrise Earth" with scenes of sunrise in all these amazing locations around the planet. You get to experience a little bit of that with a sunrise run. I hope to be doing half of what you're doing when I'm 69! You are my spirit animal!
I used to think it was better to run on an empty stomach and then eat. Now I think it's better to eat first (although not right before running, but maybe over an hour before) and then run. That way, I'm more energized.
Eating is a puzzle for running, I agree. I once ate a huge cheeseburger before a big run -- but I was 17 and indestructible. I wouldn't do that now! A light piece of fruit/berries does me right these days.
I have learned that runners come in all shapes and sizes. when I first started running, I had this idea that runners were of the one size; thin and kinda tall. when i saw people in all shapes and sizes at my first race, I knew i found my sport.
As a former athlete, I never really understood why people would simply run. Now, as an adult, I have found that running does indeed meet the needs of those of us who want a feel of competition, even if it amounts to competition, one with ourselves. More importantly, I have found that long runs, which I primarily do, can be both calming and quite enjoyable, depending on the weather and season. I so do look forward to evening runs right now in SW Florida as it's still cool enough to appreciate the weather while also enjoying the feel of the wind thru the run!
so many things. i do a 10 mile run every week and think nothing of it. it used to be so hard! i've been staying 6 feet away from my running partner and i thought that would be so difficult to do. now we laugh that we are going to trip over each other if the pandemic ever goes away. and i thought wearing a neck gaitor would be such a pain and now it gives me such peace of mind. and of course i have to mention how dumb i thought virtual runs were. now i love them and think it is such a great alternative for races to offer them for those who aren't comfortable in groups.
I have been wearing a mask when near other people on local trail. I have been wondering - since it is a little more difficult to breath through a mask, is that about the same as running at higher altitude (5000’) I checked my SVO2 uptake at home resting, it is 98 without mask, 93 with mask on. I seem to recall runners used to train in Denver because of the altitude . What do you think?
Interesting that your O2 saturation actually goes down with a mask. I have worked in a covid unit since March last year. We all wear N95 masks plus a surgical mask for our entire 12 hour shift except for our 30 minute break. Almost everyone I know in my unit has tested their O2 sat with and without mask and have seen no difference. This, of course, we do while standing still. Not sure how it would be affected by running. That being said, I tried to run with a mask on once, and gave it up. So hard!!! I don't know if it simulates altitude running, but it definitely makes it more difficult.
I have an answer to this! The short answer is that it isn't the same due to ambient oxygen levels. When we run at higher altitudes there is less oxygen available - that's a result of less pressure allowing air molecules to spread out = ambient oxygen drops. At elevation, the ambient oxygen levels are the same with or without masks. Doesn't mean how we feel running with masks isn't real, it just that it isn't related to actual oxygen levels. Hopefully, that makes sense.
I started running in my 20s so that I could eat whatever I wanted and still maintain my weight. I am now a few months away from turning 50 and now I run for so many other reasons: to stay fit, for peace of mind and because I still can. I have learned the value of stretching and strength training as well as sleeping and eating healthy. The biggest thing I have learned is that running is a piece of a healthy lifestyle not just a ticket to eating whatever I want.
Let me preface this by saying I disliked running for much of my life and did it as needed for others—gym class, to be social with my roommate who loved to run 5k races, to impress my boyfriend (now husband) who was a runner, to support a friend doing couch potato to 5k which ultimately led to running my first half. Since then I’ve learned so much about wellness and improved my overall health in pursuit of running goals. While training for half marathons I developed a yoga practice to work through overuse injuries in my hips, glutes, hamstrings. Being able to clear my head on longer runs has enabled me to learn how to meditate and deepen my prayer practice. I’ve developed wellness habits like drinking celery juice every morning which has provided a multitude of benefits for me as a runner and as a woman in my 50’s. The biggest change is that I never wanted to run a marathon (too hard on your body, too much training time, too intimidating), but over the past couple of years the desire to run a marathon has been slowly taking hold in my mind when I’m running and contemplating goals.
Kara, I am also in my 50's and have had to find the proper balance of running and rest. I notice that you struggle with hips, glutes, and hamstrings as well. Is there a particular yoga practice you started following? I do 20-30 minutes of stretching on my hips alone before running. Any advice on best stretches?
I highly recommend Yin yoga which involves holding the pose (or stretch) for 3-5 minutes to gradually let your muscles and fasciae stretch and release. My go to post running yoga stretches are twisted crescent lunge, lizard then downward dog into pigeon (which I stay in for 3 minutes per side).
I started running in High School... my two best friends ran the 440 dash and I wanted to do what they were doing. That was too fast a pace so I switched to the 880... After college I ran my first marathon... again a friend talked me into it... How hard could it be? I'd done cross country in my senior year of HS and that was pretty far. To make a long story and the day shorter, the beginning was easy but my cockiness wained around mile 8... That was the longest 26.2 miles I'd never run. I walked the last 7 miles with a 78 year old grandmother who had trained for a year.. She asked why I'd attempted it w/o training... "A girl" I said sheepishly. The girl who I set out to impress called me an idiot and dropped me... After that embaressment, I never met a challenge I couldn't tame. Two years later, I RAN my first marathon... I have a true respect for those who run and finish... It's not about how long it takes, it's about actually doing something that you know is going to be hard. I learned that from a 78 year old woman... Hell, she even beat me by ten yards when she sprinted to the finish line...
"It's not about how long it takes, it's about actually doing something that you know is going to be hard."---that is truth right there! While I run to try and improve my times in most races, the main thing is just finishing and finishing healthy! The sense of accomplishment is always such a high!
The grandma sprint killed me! 😂. If I can get myself to the starting line of a marathon at 78 - that's a life win for me right there! (Actually, that's kind of my competitive game plan right now - age into top 3 spots!)
I started running because someone at church wanted me to run a 5k with them... that was 6 years ago. I ran off and on for the next 3 years, but then in late 2018 decided to train for a half-marathon in early 2019. I have been hooked since then. I have battle through two stress fractures since March of 2019 and have learned how to properly train (and rest) in order to stay healthy. I have now completed 2 marathons and several half-marathons. Running simply allows me to deal with life--it is the part of my day when I detach from all the craziness and enjoy an hour (or two, or three) of just putting one foot in front of the other. Running has went from a simple challenge from a friend to a part of who I am---I AM A RUNNER!!!
I learned that I am a runner, not just someone who runs! It's woven into who I am - even though I am pretty slow, don't track, and am not driven to get PRs. I used to feel like I was trying running on, like a pair of socks - but now know that it's a regular practice, a long-term commitment, and a way to see the world!
I totally relate—took a long to view myself as a runner partly because my pace is slow compared to the runners I knew. But I like my pace and going the distance with commitment even more!
This came to me the other morning on a run where I had this moment of thinking and feeling to my core: I. LOVE. RUNNING!! I equated that moment (and many others during runs where I'm just HAPPY) as the 'runner's high' that gets talked about a lot and many find elusive. The next thought I had was - the Runner's High isn't just given away. It's earned. And I've earned it after many, many runs - good and not so good - adding up. Many runs of showing up in all weather, many hills tackled, many hours of warm up and cool down routines. I've been running for 25+ years, but never so consistently, never as far, and never as easily. And I feel the ROI has been earning that Runner's High after all these years :)
Wow, good question. Reflecting back. Not really sure when I started running. It’s been several years. One thing I’ve learned that I thought I didn’t know; how much I enjoy running. It’s my “one thing”Learning how to train for marathons. My friends ask me questions about running I can help with some answers of what I’ve learned over the years.
And what you write about helps a lot too. Thank you for this. Stay safe and Happy running!
I have 2 things. 1. Shoes. I always fancied myself a Nike girl and felt confident that I would come home with a pair of them when I went to the running store to get fitted for shoes. I instead came home with a pair of Saucony shoes and was quite surprised at how much better they felt than the Nike shoes. They were good for casual wear but not running (for me). 2. The marathon. I had no desire to ever run a marathon and said as much. Then I fell victim to the NYC Marathon hype video, lol! Two years later I toed the line at Stanton Island as a St. Jude Hero. Never say never my friends.
The biggest shift since I started running 5 years ago is that I know enough of the basics to feel like I know what I'm doing ... well, at my level anyway. Ever since the birth of my son 2.5 years ago, running has taken a back seat, but I feel like I know the good practices and habits to adopt to get me back to where I was, so I can resume progress toward my goal of running a half marathon in every state.
I'm like you, Derek -- my son is 7 1/2 now, so it's easier, but I remember the days when he was a toddler. It's hard to get in any time for running, for sure! It will come back, though 😃
Good Morning Terrell. I now approach challenging things as an opportunity to grow. I think the change happened because completing a marathon gave me the confidence that I am stronger than I realize. Thank you getting us thinking and have a great weekend.
I started running to prove to myself that I could and have found a way to relax while exercising. It also allows me time to think things through and pray. This time allows me time to reflect.
I feel like I should already know the answer to this, Nelda -- we've been connected here for ages! 😃 But how long ago did you start running? And what got you started?
I've been running for about 5 years. I decided when I was a year away from turning 50, I wanted to run a half marathon before 50. My goal was to finish and not be last. I ACHIEVED ALL GOALS!
I never chimed in! I now can run 13 comfortably! When I first started the idea of a 5k felt preposterous. Couldn't imagine running 3.1. Then I did - next hurdle was 5, then 6, etc. It is amazing the progress we can make with running friends and inspiration like The Half Marathoner!!
I so, so ❤️ this, Michelle!!! Right back at you!!!
In recovery from shoulder surgery I’m realizing that I do actually miss running. Didn’t think I’d ever say that since it’s never been my favorite form of exercise, but now that I can’t do it (for awhile anyway) I’m envious of those who can, and miss the feel of the work on my body.
I'm so sorry to hear this, Julie! How long will your recovery last?
I think another month or more before I’m good to go. Maybe can start running in another couple of weeks tho. Running helped me keep off the Covid pounds.
So much! First, I didn't think I liked running. I started doing it for fitness. I was a walker, and as I wanted to add more miles and not more time, I started to run the downhills. Then, I started to run 1 minute out of every 5 that I walked. That turned into 2 minutes out of 5, and so on. Next thing I know, I'm running, but still not loving it. It wasn't until I started really running long distances that I fell in love with it and considered myself a runner. And, I only started running long distances because someone else, (my daughter) considered me a runner and challenged me to run a half marathon. This was only two years ago. I'm still amazed.
Running is a metaphor for life and I could talk about it all day long 🙌
When I started running in 2014, I was focused on getting faster, that drove everything for me. I wanted certain PR's at every distance, and wanted to qualify for Boston. By 2018 I had achieved all of that and then some. And then lost my way. I was no longer getting faster, and I no longer had the desire to put in the time to maintain that level of fitness. I could not find my motivation. I floundered and was inconsistent in 2019 and of course much of 2020. I don't have it figured out yet, but I finally am finding joy in just running, and being fit, and getting to eat! Not in moping about not being as fast as my past self. And the Half Marathoner is part of this process. So I am thankful for this group.
Everyone runs for as reason... hell why would anyone who hates to run do it... I love to run and my reason for it has changed with age. When I was younger, it was all about the MPM & PR... now I just enjoy running because I can... I'm 70 and thankful I can lace up my sneakers and pound the pavement where a lot of people my age have a hard time even walking across the street.
I hear you on that, Jeff. I think it's natural to experience a letdown after you reach a big goal -- and by the way, qualifying for Boston is just flat-out amazing!!!!! It sounds like you have a lot you could teach us, especially for reaching for big goals -- and in running just to run and enjoy it. Really glad you're part of this.
Living in the Pacific northwest has changed my perception of what cold is!! Currently, anything under 18 degrees is worth a treadmill run. As a former California runner, with cold being more like 30 degrees...this is a switch for me!!
I HATE running in the cold... I lived in Minnesota and ran in layers... not fun... but doable..
I've been running since I turned 40 (I'm almost 67 now). Back then, I told my wife that she was shrinking my jeans in the wash. She told me my mid-section was growing - not the jeans shrinking. From that day forward, I decided the easiest thing for me to do (since I'm not a "gym" person) was to head out the front door and go for a run. I never dreamed I could run a mile - let alone even one block. But as many of you know, sooner a later a mile turns into a few miles, which turns into a few more. I look back on my almost 100 full marathons, just as many half's, trail runs, fun runs, etc., and I still can't believe that "I" did them! Running has given me a unique identity that I would have never acquired if not for a pair of tight jeans. Things you think are impossible to accomplish - that you as an individual can't imagine doing - are, in reality in all our reach. And that goes beyond running. That relates to everyday things - simple and complex... You just have to believe in yourself... So, what was the questions again!
Isn't is strange that when you don't run a mile seems so far, but once you start, and then slowly build up, you can say, "what's one more mile?"
Absolutely!
Wow! I tell myself at 52 I have to cut back on my goals and be realistic. You've shredded yours it sounds! Way to go!!!
I am almost 80, and now starting to train for the Rock N Roll full marathon in November. (9th Marathon in last 12 years) My wife thinks I should “cutback” - well, at some point I won’t have any choice but until then I will enjoy my running. I have since I was 35
Amazing!!!!!
The truly strange thing is that I really didn't have any goals to start with. A friend of mine asked if I wanted to try running the LA Marathon. I figured, if he can do it, I can do it too. And I did... One led to another and so on. I had no idea what I was getting into!
I love this post, Jay. Just imagine all the change that's happened for you because of... a pair of "shrinking" jeans. Life is amazing, isn't it?
Absolutely... In many weird and wonderful ways...
For me, I've realized how important it is to run easy. Like most runners I thought to get faster at running, you must run faster all of the time. Now I spend a good portion of my running anywhere from 8-12 minutes per mile. I find it really helps me recover.
I love that you share this, Hollie! It actually reassures me that I'm doing okay when you post on IG your slower running times 😃
I finally allowed myself to be called "an athlete"! I've never been a real competitor and now that I'm older and transitioned from running to jogging/walking fast, at times I didn't feel as though I still belonged in the running community. That has changed. I'm where I belong among all variations of athletes and I will continue to participate in races until I physically can't. This blog means a lot to me and I'm encouraged by the members and their stories. I'm not alone in my goal for everlasting movement.
Oh, Belle you mean a lot to me (and all of us) too! It helps me feel like I'm not alone too, especially during this time when we've all been separated. There's room for everyone at this table. 😃
Wow, what an amazing & thought-provoking question! A few come to mind: I thought I was a "cold" person (but it turns out I can heat up pretty fast & pour sweat in freezing temps! It feels like an existence flex -- like I'm not so meek and frail/dumpy/passive after all! I generate all this heat & I Am a MACHINE!!!). I didn't think I was capable of running long distances, I didn't think my body was "cut out" for running. I never thought I would "like" running. I thought it would be boring, but I'm never bored. Pretty much every part of running has blown my mind.
Most of all I learned that when I think I "know" something (like "yeah running is not and never will be for me"), more often than not, I'm wrong, which is funny and freeing.
I love, love, love that this has happened for you, Edith. Like we've talked about, I think we get *way* too narrow a view of what running is from what we see in the media/social media/etc., and it's so cool when you can discover something entirely new about it, like you have. 😃
Congrats on finding your inner runner! Just curious...given your misgivings about running, what triggered taking up the sport? Asking because I felt as you described and started running to support my daughter's second ACL replacement on her right leg. 8 years later I find myself training for my first marathon (thanks to Clarissa and Terrell a few weeks ago) and realizing these have been the best 8 years of my life for all the reasons you state above. Thanks for sharing!
Congrats to you, too, Bren! I love hearing how people find running. It’s so unlike how I thought — I used to think all runners were very serious and always had been. I started because of the pandemic, and only grudgingly, because my gym closed and I was afraid of getting out of shape/getting depressed. Instead it was like 10 times better than my gym (and FREE), and I’ve been running almost daily since then.
Reading your comments on this newsletter and following you on Strava, I was convinced that if you weren't a life long runner, that at minimum you had been one for many years. I pictured you as one of the "serious" runners you describe. My mind is blown!
Ha! Thanks, Maria! It was a quick transformation & one I never expected. For what it's worth, I did barre classes for 4 years before this. It wasn't very aerobic, but I like to think it was good, if unintentional, preparation.
Biggest “mindset shift” is that I can still run…but have to take care of my body differently ~55 years later (69 this June). My “noon run” mentality for many years was to change as fast as I could, run as far and fast as I could in the time available, and then get back to work on time. Stretching? Oh yes…two minutes before if I remembered it. Now, I invest in me—I have to—both before (some) and a lot afterwards, to include using a roller. People tell me, “I hope I can do what you do at your age,” to which I say, “Are you willing to pay the price…to do what I do at my age?” Even after a nasty fall last week (hurt pride, skinned up and bruised, another iPhone crack, but nothing broken!) I am back in the saddle again. (That "darn" tree root!) The other change is that I have FINALLY learned to enjoy launching a run slightly prior to sunrise, something necessary in hot and humid weather. Not a fast learner…just an eventual learner!
This gives me hope that one day, I too can get out the door before 11.
Now that's funny...and that was ME at one time!
Yikes, Howie! (About the fall you took) But I love the sunrise run enthusiasm. When HD television first became a thing, there used to be this show called "Sunrise Earth" with scenes of sunrise in all these amazing locations around the planet. You get to experience a little bit of that with a sunrise run. I hope to be doing half of what you're doing when I'm 69! You are my spirit animal!
I used to think it was better to run on an empty stomach and then eat. Now I think it's better to eat first (although not right before running, but maybe over an hour before) and then run. That way, I'm more energized.
Eating is a puzzle for running, I agree. I once ate a huge cheeseburger before a big run -- but I was 17 and indestructible. I wouldn't do that now! A light piece of fruit/berries does me right these days.
I have learned that runners come in all shapes and sizes. when I first started running, I had this idea that runners were of the one size; thin and kinda tall. when i saw people in all shapes and sizes at my first race, I knew i found my sport.
I used to think the same thing too, Leslie! Experience taught me it was much more inclusive than I thought at first 😃
As a former athlete, I never really understood why people would simply run. Now, as an adult, I have found that running does indeed meet the needs of those of us who want a feel of competition, even if it amounts to competition, one with ourselves. More importantly, I have found that long runs, which I primarily do, can be both calming and quite enjoyable, depending on the weather and season. I so do look forward to evening runs right now in SW Florida as it's still cool enough to appreciate the weather while also enjoying the feel of the wind thru the run!
so many things. i do a 10 mile run every week and think nothing of it. it used to be so hard! i've been staying 6 feet away from my running partner and i thought that would be so difficult to do. now we laugh that we are going to trip over each other if the pandemic ever goes away. and i thought wearing a neck gaitor would be such a pain and now it gives me such peace of mind. and of course i have to mention how dumb i thought virtual runs were. now i love them and think it is such a great alternative for races to offer them for those who aren't comfortable in groups.
I have been wearing a mask when near other people on local trail. I have been wondering - since it is a little more difficult to breath through a mask, is that about the same as running at higher altitude (5000’) I checked my SVO2 uptake at home resting, it is 98 without mask, 93 with mask on. I seem to recall runners used to train in Denver because of the altitude . What do you think?
Interesting that your O2 saturation actually goes down with a mask. I have worked in a covid unit since March last year. We all wear N95 masks plus a surgical mask for our entire 12 hour shift except for our 30 minute break. Almost everyone I know in my unit has tested their O2 sat with and without mask and have seen no difference. This, of course, we do while standing still. Not sure how it would be affected by running. That being said, I tried to run with a mask on once, and gave it up. So hard!!! I don't know if it simulates altitude running, but it definitely makes it more difficult.
I have an answer to this! The short answer is that it isn't the same due to ambient oxygen levels. When we run at higher altitudes there is less oxygen available - that's a result of less pressure allowing air molecules to spread out = ambient oxygen drops. At elevation, the ambient oxygen levels are the same with or without masks. Doesn't mean how we feel running with masks isn't real, it just that it isn't related to actual oxygen levels. Hopefully, that makes sense.
That's an excellent question, I can believe it. I've definitely felt (a little) difficulty breathing through a mask.
I started running in my 20s so that I could eat whatever I wanted and still maintain my weight. I am now a few months away from turning 50 and now I run for so many other reasons: to stay fit, for peace of mind and because I still can. I have learned the value of stretching and strength training as well as sleeping and eating healthy. The biggest thing I have learned is that running is a piece of a healthy lifestyle not just a ticket to eating whatever I want.
I also learned that a strong core also helps a lot...
Let me preface this by saying I disliked running for much of my life and did it as needed for others—gym class, to be social with my roommate who loved to run 5k races, to impress my boyfriend (now husband) who was a runner, to support a friend doing couch potato to 5k which ultimately led to running my first half. Since then I’ve learned so much about wellness and improved my overall health in pursuit of running goals. While training for half marathons I developed a yoga practice to work through overuse injuries in my hips, glutes, hamstrings. Being able to clear my head on longer runs has enabled me to learn how to meditate and deepen my prayer practice. I’ve developed wellness habits like drinking celery juice every morning which has provided a multitude of benefits for me as a runner and as a woman in my 50’s. The biggest change is that I never wanted to run a marathon (too hard on your body, too much training time, too intimidating), but over the past couple of years the desire to run a marathon has been slowly taking hold in my mind when I’m running and contemplating goals.
Kara, I am also in my 50's and have had to find the proper balance of running and rest. I notice that you struggle with hips, glutes, and hamstrings as well. Is there a particular yoga practice you started following? I do 20-30 minutes of stretching on my hips alone before running. Any advice on best stretches?
I highly recommend Yin yoga which involves holding the pose (or stretch) for 3-5 minutes to gradually let your muscles and fasciae stretch and release. My go to post running yoga stretches are twisted crescent lunge, lizard then downward dog into pigeon (which I stay in for 3 minutes per side).
I started running in High School... my two best friends ran the 440 dash and I wanted to do what they were doing. That was too fast a pace so I switched to the 880... After college I ran my first marathon... again a friend talked me into it... How hard could it be? I'd done cross country in my senior year of HS and that was pretty far. To make a long story and the day shorter, the beginning was easy but my cockiness wained around mile 8... That was the longest 26.2 miles I'd never run. I walked the last 7 miles with a 78 year old grandmother who had trained for a year.. She asked why I'd attempted it w/o training... "A girl" I said sheepishly. The girl who I set out to impress called me an idiot and dropped me... After that embaressment, I never met a challenge I couldn't tame. Two years later, I RAN my first marathon... I have a true respect for those who run and finish... It's not about how long it takes, it's about actually doing something that you know is going to be hard. I learned that from a 78 year old woman... Hell, she even beat me by ten yards when she sprinted to the finish line...
Fantastic!
This is the best story ever! LOL. LOL.
I want to be that Grandma! I'm getting close...64
"It's not about how long it takes, it's about actually doing something that you know is going to be hard."---that is truth right there! While I run to try and improve my times in most races, the main thing is just finishing and finishing healthy! The sense of accomplishment is always such a high!
I LOVE this story—inspiring and you made me laugh out loud, thanks!
It took me a long time to laugh at what I'd attempted to do that day...
The grandma sprint killed me! 😂. If I can get myself to the starting line of a marathon at 78 - that's a life win for me right there! (Actually, that's kind of my competitive game plan right now - age into top 3 spots!)
I started running because someone at church wanted me to run a 5k with them... that was 6 years ago. I ran off and on for the next 3 years, but then in late 2018 decided to train for a half-marathon in early 2019. I have been hooked since then. I have battle through two stress fractures since March of 2019 and have learned how to properly train (and rest) in order to stay healthy. I have now completed 2 marathons and several half-marathons. Running simply allows me to deal with life--it is the part of my day when I detach from all the craziness and enjoy an hour (or two, or three) of just putting one foot in front of the other. Running has went from a simple challenge from a friend to a part of who I am---I AM A RUNNER!!!
YES!
YES YOU ARE!!!
I learned that I am a runner, not just someone who runs! It's woven into who I am - even though I am pretty slow, don't track, and am not driven to get PRs. I used to feel like I was trying running on, like a pair of socks - but now know that it's a regular practice, a long-term commitment, and a way to see the world!
I totally relate—took a long to view myself as a runner partly because my pace is slow compared to the runners I knew. But I like my pace and going the distance with commitment even more!
Love how you put this...
I love that phrase, Alex! "like I was trying running on, like a pair of socks" 😃
This came to me the other morning on a run where I had this moment of thinking and feeling to my core: I. LOVE. RUNNING!! I equated that moment (and many others during runs where I'm just HAPPY) as the 'runner's high' that gets talked about a lot and many find elusive. The next thought I had was - the Runner's High isn't just given away. It's earned. And I've earned it after many, many runs - good and not so good - adding up. Many runs of showing up in all weather, many hills tackled, many hours of warm up and cool down routines. I've been running for 25+ years, but never so consistently, never as far, and never as easily. And I feel the ROI has been earning that Runner's High after all these years :)
I could get the I LOVE RUNNING! Shirt and wear it!! 😁👍🏃♀️💪
Wow, good question. Reflecting back. Not really sure when I started running. It’s been several years. One thing I’ve learned that I thought I didn’t know; how much I enjoy running. It’s my “one thing”Learning how to train for marathons. My friends ask me questions about running I can help with some answers of what I’ve learned over the years.
And what you write about helps a lot too. Thank you for this. Stay safe and Happy running!
Thank you for being a part of this, Belinda! Right back at you 😃
I ran a 5k in 2019 and thought that was enough. I thought I'd get bored if I ran any farther. I now run half-marathons for fun!
How awesome is that? 😃 Have any halfs you're scheduled to run later this year?
April 17 - The Clinton Historic Half in Missouri. I'm trying not to overload my calendar, so I plan one race at a time.
I have 2 things. 1. Shoes. I always fancied myself a Nike girl and felt confident that I would come home with a pair of them when I went to the running store to get fitted for shoes. I instead came home with a pair of Saucony shoes and was quite surprised at how much better they felt than the Nike shoes. They were good for casual wear but not running (for me). 2. The marathon. I had no desire to ever run a marathon and said as much. Then I fell victim to the NYC Marathon hype video, lol! Two years later I toed the line at Stanton Island as a St. Jude Hero. Never say never my friends.
great story! I agree about Nike ..walking shoes yes, running, other brands so much better
That's my dream... I'll settle for Disney for now..
This is so awesome, Stacy!
The biggest shift since I started running 5 years ago is that I know enough of the basics to feel like I know what I'm doing ... well, at my level anyway. Ever since the birth of my son 2.5 years ago, running has taken a back seat, but I feel like I know the good practices and habits to adopt to get me back to where I was, so I can resume progress toward my goal of running a half marathon in every state.
I'm like you, Derek -- my son is 7 1/2 now, so it's easier, but I remember the days when he was a toddler. It's hard to get in any time for running, for sure! It will come back, though 😃
Good Morning Terrell. I now approach challenging things as an opportunity to grow. I think the change happened because completing a marathon gave me the confidence that I am stronger than I realize. Thank you getting us thinking and have a great weekend.
This is really great. Well put.
I love that, Brian! Thank you as well, my friend -- have a great weekend too 👍
I started running to prove to myself that I could and have found a way to relax while exercising. It also allows me time to think things through and pray. This time allows me time to reflect.
I feel like I should already know the answer to this, Nelda -- we've been connected here for ages! 😃 But how long ago did you start running? And what got you started?
I've been running for about 5 years. I decided when I was a year away from turning 50, I wanted to run a half marathon before 50. My goal was to finish and not be last. I ACHIEVED ALL GOALS!