What’s something you learned, either from running or while running, that you bring into the rest of your life? Whether it’s your work, or your relationships, or anything else? — Terrell
Running has taught me about the intricate and inspiring communities of culture within endurance sport. It started in HS and Carrie’s thru to today in my little group, I am program director for Tampa Galloway (using run-walk-run for marathon training) I also love the way in which runners support and welcome newcomers, and the accessibility of the sport. Trail running has been an especially uplifting part of this culture for me in last 3-4 years, discovery of the way things change every run.
Terrell, I would love to interview you sometime about your journey in writing, culture of and approach to half marathons in particular- for RunningAnthropologist- reach out when you have time!
My mind doesn't wander that often while running because I am still huffing and puffing, but a lesson I learn from running is to just do it, and not overthink. I tend to get scared before running because I am not good at it but always end up feeling great
Running for me is making a statement. When I train to run a half marathon, which is what I'm doing now with the help of your training plan and newsletter, I'm committing. I'm putting in the time, discipline, and working towards something all while enjoying the benefits along the way.
Even though, I consider myself a careful runner and look out for obstacles and watch for oncoming traffic, accidents can happen. . . and you may not be aware of what it was or what caused it! Somehow, (and I really means somehow!) I wound up wit-h a back-of-the-head injury and a concussion that took me to urgent care at a hospital. Amazing thing is, search my memory and my phone, and there is no recollection as to how or what happened. Crazy thing is, the day after, I find out I have a Marathon to run! Life can be funny sometimes!
I'm back to walking the Trail by myself, which is a blessing. May take a month before I run again. Learned to be Careful!
Things I have found out from prior runs, though, is that time on my side, slow and easy counts, and I'm stronger than I think. . . and if I don't make it, it's not the end of the world. After all, it is my own running story! :)
That I can take the time to accomplish things and not give up when things don’t happen immediately or even quickly. Equally that I am much stronger and more capable than I realize. :-)
I learned running etiquette is not the same everywhere. I recently spent 2.5 weeks in Westminster London. I ran a few blocks to Batersea Park. 3 to 4 time's around the park and back home. I soon found that no runners make eye contact with you, or gives you any kind of a wave, or good morning. It was odd for me. I run in the Pacific NW where you wave, nod, or say good morning as you pass others. I will say I noticed even just walking down the sidewalk no one made eye contact.
I love everyone’s comments! It might sound a bit corny - it’s a marathon not a sprint - is what I have learned. Remembering this helps/has helped me immeasurably with running, work, parenting, etc.
Pacing. I have learned pacing. From going out too fast, too often. From starting too slowly and running my lifetime best. I have earned a deep understanding of how important -- in the half -- to wait until you’re warmed a little to start the longish push that yields a time within your ‘acceptable’ realm.
The half is a beautiful metaphor for the long, hard stretches we all endure and sometimes conquer!😎
Such a great point, Steve! I've made the mistake before of going out too fast at the beginning, only to run out of steam later when I really needed it. That's something that only comes with experience, I think.
I love this question! I’ve learned that running is always there. Even if I haven’t run in awhile, even if the run isn’t “good” (or wherever that means!) it’s still there. It helps me when I’m feeling lonely, bored etc, it’s always welcoming me back. Running has helped me realize that there is always a place to come back to, I just need to take that first step :)
Great question! I have learned that I can do hard things. I have learned that prep is as important, if not more so, than execution. Because I am so slow and usually on the course for a looong time, I have learned to be with myself and my thoughts. I have learned to respect and listen to my body. I have learned to hydrate and stay on top of my electrolyte replacement. All of this transcends to other parts of my life.
I love this statement........we should be learning in every aspect of life but to learn from running???? Seems to simple...........yep........I have learned to realize that every run has an impact on my body (mostly for the good).........when I am injured or fatigued I need to listen and act accordingly.........when I have a good run.......I need to appreciate how good I feel and take the "win"! Life is the same.......learn from your mistakes and enjoy the "wins" .....both make you stronger and better!!!!
I was never chosen for sports at school and didn’t think exercise was for me. Running has taught me to not carry school experiences with me and there is an exercise for everyone!
I was always chosen last in schoolyard football games too, Sian -- no one wanted me on their team! Later I played soccer, but I carry those moments of not being chosen with me even today -- I remember them so vividly. Now, as a runner, it's really the first time in my life I've felt like an athlete. I feel you on this! 🙌
That no matter what, I can keep going. Despite the pain, the exhaustion, and the "I'm-so-over-this" moments, if I just keep taking steps, no matter how close together, I will keep moving and get somewhere. And even when I can't take another step - when I have to stop and look around and reassess, attend to howling body parts, and maybe have some water and a snack - I'll still be somewhere that's different from where I started. Those steps will have added up; they will have mattered. And maybe the end will look different than expected; maybe I won't always be able to look back in celebration. Sometimes it may even be rueful. But it will matter, because despite the slow movements, the breaks, the setbacks, the pain, I kept going.
I just left an eight year relationship. My partner taught me how to run by having been a runner and being an encouraging, motivating factor. Running taught me that I can keep going, and I am better for it.
I love all of that, Victoria -- thank you SO much for sharing it. There is something amazing about knowing that, at the end of something you realize you simply must endure, that you're going to be okay in the end, isn't there?
Thank you for your words!!! Many times we can not celebrate our run (too slow.....injury.........setback) but we can learn and move forward!!! We are strong and love life.......so forward and upward!!! Blessings!!!!
Micro meditation. Running is a mind game for me, especially over longer distances. Have ran 4 half marathons this summer with another coming up. I have the urge to slow down and walk when, really, there is no reason to. I have learned to meditate on the run and bring myself back to center and manage my breathing. This is definitely a helpful tool in all other aspects of life as well.
Wow, four halfs this summer! That's awesome, Chris. Which ones did you run?
I love what you have to say about micro meditation, too -- there's an excellent article I stumbled across recently that goes into (a lot of) detail about this, how we perceive the effort we're expending during a run, and how we actually can go further -- possibly a lot further -- than we think: https://thereader.mitpress.mit.edu/running-and-the-science-of-mental-toughness/
I completed my first full Marathon in 2011. A friend of a friend had a bib for Chicago but was unable to attend. I took it and ran, way under-trained, thinking I'd be lucky to finish at all. What I learned that time out, running with this human wave of grit, pain, youth, age, and sweat is that with this type of camaraderie (among strangers!), you can accomplish anything! I've run 10 marathons since.
I love your prose - "running with this human wave of grit, pain, youth, age, and sweat" is about the most concise description of running a race I have read
Thanks for the compliment! I was going to be a writer when I was young, but somehow found my way into psychopharmacology. I do plan to return to it some day... :)
4 more times for Chicago, twice for Philadelphia, then Baltimore, NY and DC. There's something to love about all of them but NY was just surreal going bridge to bridge from Staten Island to Brooklyn to Queens to Manhattan to the Bronx and back to Manhattan. I may be done with the full marathons (unless I score a slot in London or Berlin) and have focused more recently on halfs. How about you?
I'm not sure if I learned this from running, while running, or applied it to running, but I think it all kinda goes into each other, and that is, we're all capable of amazing things, even if in a particular moment it seems impossible. Sometimes you need to "zoom out" a bit and take the big picture into mind, and that can be very hard to do in the moment.
I love that, Adam, and absolutely agree. As someone who has struggled with lots of self-imposed limitations throughout my life, I love the way running has helped me open a door to new possibilities -- if nothing else, because you get to see yourself achieving things you didn't think were possible, just by sticking with it over time. Great thoughts, my friend -- hope you are well too! What's next on the horizon for you?
I love your Friday threads, it's awesome what a great community you have here!
Nothing too crazy on the horizon right now :) I've been enjoying my substacking and growing the podcast and newsletter, so that's been a focus of my time lately. Lots of great guests and shows to plan for and trying to get ahead of it a bit!
Chris M having done the Iron Horse reminded me that I my 7th this year was the Jack and Jill Downhill. My first ‘kind-of-off-road” all downhill. It reminded me that time is not important but finishing is, and that your fellow runners are family (shared my gels with runner who felt dizzy about 3 miles from the finish).
I have learned life is a journey . Whatever role ,process ,title , goal, dream . When I started running ( I’m actually using that verbiage ) lol
I now find myself thanking the Lord for my health my life and the beauty I pay more attention to while I am out running. smells ,sights, greenery ,pastures ,trees birds cows . I try to take time to just appreciate my life and the outdoors . Things we take for granted or so busy with life work schedules we forget the wonder of it all !!!!
I hear you, Dawn -- that's why I try to run outside as often as I can vs. running on my treadmill, which I used to do a lot (and still do occasionally). To get outside and soak it all up, it just makes my whole day better.
Thanks, Adam!!! The Friday threads are the most fun part of writing the newsletter for me too, to be honest -- I'm so incredibly gratified that people show up, that they participate, that they share their thoughts and feelings here in an open way. It's just such an awesome thing, I feel so lucky to be a part of it myself. Because you guys are just as responsible for creating the community here as I am -- more so, in fact, I think!
Running has taught me about the intricate and inspiring communities of culture within endurance sport. It started in HS and Carrie’s thru to today in my little group, I am program director for Tampa Galloway (using run-walk-run for marathon training) I also love the way in which runners support and welcome newcomers, and the accessibility of the sport. Trail running has been an especially uplifting part of this culture for me in last 3-4 years, discovery of the way things change every run.
Terrell, I would love to interview you sometime about your journey in writing, culture of and approach to half marathons in particular- for RunningAnthropologist- reach out when you have time!
Mark, I would love that! More than happy to, anytime. My email is tj30305 [at] gmail [dot] com.
My mind doesn't wander that often while running because I am still huffing and puffing, but a lesson I learn from running is to just do it, and not overthink. I tend to get scared before running because I am not good at it but always end up feeling great
Running for me is making a statement. When I train to run a half marathon, which is what I'm doing now with the help of your training plan and newsletter, I'm committing. I'm putting in the time, discipline, and working towards something all while enjoying the benefits along the way.
So glad to hear that, Jon! Keep me posted on how it works for you — let me know if anything gives you pause. Is this your first half?
Thanks! I've run a few before over the last several years, but have just got back into running after a long difficult year.
I’m sorry to hear about the difficult year, but I’m really glad to hear you’re running again. Anything in particular that brought you back?
Mainly health- physical and mental- benefits.
Even though, I consider myself a careful runner and look out for obstacles and watch for oncoming traffic, accidents can happen. . . and you may not be aware of what it was or what caused it! Somehow, (and I really means somehow!) I wound up wit-h a back-of-the-head injury and a concussion that took me to urgent care at a hospital. Amazing thing is, search my memory and my phone, and there is no recollection as to how or what happened. Crazy thing is, the day after, I find out I have a Marathon to run! Life can be funny sometimes!
I'm back to walking the Trail by myself, which is a blessing. May take a month before I run again. Learned to be Careful!
Things I have found out from prior runs, though, is that time on my side, slow and easy counts, and I'm stronger than I think. . . and if I don't make it, it's not the end of the world. After all, it is my own running story! :)
That I can take the time to accomplish things and not give up when things don’t happen immediately or even quickly. Equally that I am much stronger and more capable than I realize. :-)
I learned running etiquette is not the same everywhere. I recently spent 2.5 weeks in Westminster London. I ran a few blocks to Batersea Park. 3 to 4 time's around the park and back home. I soon found that no runners make eye contact with you, or gives you any kind of a wave, or good morning. It was odd for me. I run in the Pacific NW where you wave, nod, or say good morning as you pass others. I will say I noticed even just walking down the sidewalk no one made eye contact.
I’ve learned that I can accomplish difficult things & that I’m a dependable, dedicated person. I didn’t feel that way before running.
Growth ... that’s a BIG deal. A tip of my baseball cap!
I love everyone’s comments! It might sound a bit corny - it’s a marathon not a sprint - is what I have learned. Remembering this helps/has helped me immeasurably with running, work, parenting, etc.
Not corny at all! Actually it's pretty helpful 😃
Pacing. I have learned pacing. From going out too fast, too often. From starting too slowly and running my lifetime best. I have earned a deep understanding of how important -- in the half -- to wait until you’re warmed a little to start the longish push that yields a time within your ‘acceptable’ realm.
The half is a beautiful metaphor for the long, hard stretches we all endure and sometimes conquer!😎
Such a great point, Steve! I've made the mistake before of going out too fast at the beginning, only to run out of steam later when I really needed it. That's something that only comes with experience, I think.
I love this question! I’ve learned that running is always there. Even if I haven’t run in awhile, even if the run isn’t “good” (or wherever that means!) it’s still there. It helps me when I’m feeling lonely, bored etc, it’s always welcoming me back. Running has helped me realize that there is always a place to come back to, I just need to take that first step :)
I love that, Shawna!
Great question! I have learned that I can do hard things. I have learned that prep is as important, if not more so, than execution. Because I am so slow and usually on the course for a looong time, I have learned to be with myself and my thoughts. I have learned to respect and listen to my body. I have learned to hydrate and stay on top of my electrolyte replacement. All of this transcends to other parts of my life.
I love this statement........we should be learning in every aspect of life but to learn from running???? Seems to simple...........yep........I have learned to realize that every run has an impact on my body (mostly for the good).........when I am injured or fatigued I need to listen and act accordingly.........when I have a good run.......I need to appreciate how good I feel and take the "win"! Life is the same.......learn from your mistakes and enjoy the "wins" .....both make you stronger and better!!!!
Totally agree, Marianne! 🙌
I was never chosen for sports at school and didn’t think exercise was for me. Running has taught me to not carry school experiences with me and there is an exercise for everyone!
I was always chosen last in schoolyard football games too, Sian -- no one wanted me on their team! Later I played soccer, but I carry those moments of not being chosen with me even today -- I remember them so vividly. Now, as a runner, it's really the first time in my life I've felt like an athlete. I feel you on this! 🙌
That no matter what, I can keep going. Despite the pain, the exhaustion, and the "I'm-so-over-this" moments, if I just keep taking steps, no matter how close together, I will keep moving and get somewhere. And even when I can't take another step - when I have to stop and look around and reassess, attend to howling body parts, and maybe have some water and a snack - I'll still be somewhere that's different from where I started. Those steps will have added up; they will have mattered. And maybe the end will look different than expected; maybe I won't always be able to look back in celebration. Sometimes it may even be rueful. But it will matter, because despite the slow movements, the breaks, the setbacks, the pain, I kept going.
I just left an eight year relationship. My partner taught me how to run by having been a runner and being an encouraging, motivating factor. Running taught me that I can keep going, and I am better for it.
I love all of that, Victoria -- thank you SO much for sharing it. There is something amazing about knowing that, at the end of something you realize you simply must endure, that you're going to be okay in the end, isn't there?
Thank you for your words!!! Many times we can not celebrate our run (too slow.....injury.........setback) but we can learn and move forward!!! We are strong and love life.......so forward and upward!!! Blessings!!!!
Micro meditation. Running is a mind game for me, especially over longer distances. Have ran 4 half marathons this summer with another coming up. I have the urge to slow down and walk when, really, there is no reason to. I have learned to meditate on the run and bring myself back to center and manage my breathing. This is definitely a helpful tool in all other aspects of life as well.
Wow, four halfs this summer! That's awesome, Chris. Which ones did you run?
I love what you have to say about micro meditation, too -- there's an excellent article I stumbled across recently that goes into (a lot of) detail about this, how we perceive the effort we're expending during a run, and how we actually can go further -- possibly a lot further -- than we think: https://thereader.mitpress.mit.edu/running-and-the-science-of-mental-toughness/
Thanks Terrell. I will definitely give that a read.
HM's this year:
- Grand Teton (my first)
- Mt Rainier double
- Iron Horse
- Cascade Express
Next up is Wallace falls trail half in November.
I was aware of the first three; I've gotta look up the Cascade Express and Wallace Falls Trail race -- they sound interesting!
I completed my first full Marathon in 2011. A friend of a friend had a bib for Chicago but was unable to attend. I took it and ran, way under-trained, thinking I'd be lucky to finish at all. What I learned that time out, running with this human wave of grit, pain, youth, age, and sweat is that with this type of camaraderie (among strangers!), you can accomplish anything! I've run 10 marathons since.
I love your prose - "running with this human wave of grit, pain, youth, age, and sweat" is about the most concise description of running a race I have read
Thanks for the compliment! I was going to be a writer when I was young, but somehow found my way into psychopharmacology. I do plan to return to it some day... :)
That’s amazing !!
How awesome is that, Tom!!! What are the other marathons you've run since Chicago? And do you have a favorite?
Hey Terrell
4 more times for Chicago, twice for Philadelphia, then Baltimore, NY and DC. There's something to love about all of them but NY was just surreal going bridge to bridge from Staten Island to Brooklyn to Queens to Manhattan to the Bronx and back to Manhattan. I may be done with the full marathons (unless I score a slot in London or Berlin) and have focused more recently on halfs. How about you?
Happy Friday Terrell! Hope you have been well :)
I'm not sure if I learned this from running, while running, or applied it to running, but I think it all kinda goes into each other, and that is, we're all capable of amazing things, even if in a particular moment it seems impossible. Sometimes you need to "zoom out" a bit and take the big picture into mind, and that can be very hard to do in the moment.
I love that, Adam, and absolutely agree. As someone who has struggled with lots of self-imposed limitations throughout my life, I love the way running has helped me open a door to new possibilities -- if nothing else, because you get to see yourself achieving things you didn't think were possible, just by sticking with it over time. Great thoughts, my friend -- hope you are well too! What's next on the horizon for you?
I love your Friday threads, it's awesome what a great community you have here!
Nothing too crazy on the horizon right now :) I've been enjoying my substacking and growing the podcast and newsletter, so that's been a focus of my time lately. Lots of great guests and shows to plan for and trying to get ahead of it a bit!
Chris M having done the Iron Horse reminded me that I my 7th this year was the Jack and Jill Downhill. My first ‘kind-of-off-road” all downhill. It reminded me that time is not important but finishing is, and that your fellow runners are family (shared my gels with runner who felt dizzy about 3 miles from the finish).
I have learned life is a journey . Whatever role ,process ,title , goal, dream . When I started running ( I’m actually using that verbiage ) lol
I now find myself thanking the Lord for my health my life and the beauty I pay more attention to while I am out running. smells ,sights, greenery ,pastures ,trees birds cows . I try to take time to just appreciate my life and the outdoors . Things we take for granted or so busy with life work schedules we forget the wonder of it all !!!!
I hear you, Dawn -- that's why I try to run outside as often as I can vs. running on my treadmill, which I used to do a lot (and still do occasionally). To get outside and soak it all up, it just makes my whole day better.
Thanks, Adam!!! The Friday threads are the most fun part of writing the newsletter for me too, to be honest -- I'm so incredibly gratified that people show up, that they participate, that they share their thoughts and feelings here in an open way. It's just such an awesome thing, I feel so lucky to be a part of it myself. Because you guys are just as responsible for creating the community here as I am -- more so, in fact, I think!