It’s been awhile since I last posted about my foray into the world of the distance runner.
There are two reasons for this. The first of course, is because I entered that stage known as “foundation building”. This involves running a lot of long (in my case, longish), steady runs that condition the body to the repeated demands of running. These are also extremely boring and not much worth writing about. Not surprisingly, this is usually the phase where most new runners drop off.
Get through this stage I’m told and you’ll find the promised land; miles and miles of easy, fast runs through sunshine-drenched meadows of fresh grass and flowers. Be careful because you’ll get so lean, you’ll run right out of your shorts. We’ll see.
Though one interesting experience I’ve had during this period is that I’ve gotten just enough of that mythical feeling of lightness and speed that I’m driven to continue; as far and as deep as I can go.
(I know there is a clear correlation to the experience that an addict has, but I’m securely set in deep denial for now.)
The second reason is because I’ve had to alter my position on the activity of running (a fact, those close to me (Meredith!) take some sick delight in reminding me of) and I’ve needed some time to come to grips with this.
I still think that many people shouldn’t be doing it until they address the correction of their postural imbalances (because they’re only running into an injury) and I firmly believe that it’s not the end all be all exercise for everyone.
But it does have its upside when used appropriately and when keeping in mind that the terms fitness and health are not always synonymous.
I’ll expound on this last point in another post soon. For now, I just wanted to update those who were wondering if I had joined that group who never make it through the base phase.
Sorry about the wait. Besides, I’ve been busy with training clients in nutrition, stress control and exercise while also working on writing a book and after all, with the day being only so long I need to get my runs in sometime… right?
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
awesome Patrick. Never say never, that’s what my people tell me. I just heard about this great book about the Tarahuamara (sp?) indians in Mexico that are distance runners in sandals (thanks Jon Stewart). It’s called Born to Run and sounds astounding. They are one of the remaining indigenous tribes left in Mexico that wasn’t decimated by the Spanish, primarily because they ran away rather than confronting them.
This book was really the catalyst for getting me to re-evaluate my perception regarding distance running.
See the original review here: http://allproactive.com/blog/2009/06/i-hate-running/
When I’m struggling with a run, (like the hilly 4 miler I did this evening) I remind myself to tap into that primal joy so happily expressed by the Tarahumara Indians.
And also to not be such a wuss. Those men and women will run 50 miles just for the hell of it!
Thanks for the comment Meredith!
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