It would be oversimplifying things to say that running was not a HUGE priority for me the last few years. In examining what happened, I discovered some things about running and me. When I first started running, it was new and exciting. I was constantly finding new things to running. I was also training everyday, either running or cross training. In hindsight that was too much.
The unraveling of my running though started when the doctor told me about my arthritis, and how I had to cut back on running. I went in a funk over that. I felt down that somehow I just couldn't do it. I began to lose interest in working out and running. Add to that just limiting my running to the gym, and that funk got lower and lower. Throw in the stress of leaving one job, moving and starting a new job....oh boy. The funk got funkier.
That funk began to clear during the summer of last year. What changed? Goals and an understanding of my running changed. I am no longer who I was when I first started running. I'm older. The body is not what is was. So once I got over that depression, I understood that my running and goals had to change.
My first goal was to get ready for the Portland Marathon. To spur me on, I raised money for the Down Syndrome Society in honor of my niece Sabrina. Thinking about what Sabrina deals with in her life really propelled me through many of my runs. It definitely kept me going during the grueling 8-hour ordeal in Portland. Ironically that marathon made a huge impact on me. It told me that when I need to, I can push through and do what I want to do.
I understand now that I won't be setting the records I would love. Goals and record have to be more manageable. They need to be something I can achieve and know I did my best. I am not an Olympic athlete, so there is no sense trying to act like one.
So how do I see my running now? My first goal each week is to make sure I run 3-4 times a week. I am now at a base of 4 miles when I run, unless I am doing some speed work. I am slowly moving up the miles and time on the road with each run. As I run I am focusing on my form and breathing. I am thinking like an almost 50 year old runner, not a rookie who is looking to set the world on fire.
My goal of 4 half marathons this year is something I feel good about. Next year's goal is a marathon, and I know in my head what I want to work towards there. It begins though with a successful year this year. That includes being healthy.
Listening and paying attention to my body is key to my health. If I am achy....pull back. If I feel good...push a little. Now I would love to run sub 3-hour half marathons this year, but it won't be at the expense of my health. So a slow and deliberate way to train will be the success to my running.
As for my enthusiasm for running - it is back. I am loving running again. I am feeling excited to put on the shoes and head out. I am energized by the runners around me. It all feels good.
Charlie
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