This morning I went for a run along the White River. The trail I took was a new one to me. Someone I met this week told me about it, and I thought I would try it. It was a warm morning, with yellow dotting some of the trees, a reminder that Fall is coming. This morning, I decided to listen to a classical playlist. Off I went.
As I run, I usually use the time to think about things, and this morning, I had a lot to think about. I thought mostly about what had brought me to this point running wise. It's safe to say my running has been spotty for the last few years. It certainly wasn't where I wanted it to be. I wasn't making time for running. Ironically, when you work for a running store, you actually don't get to run all the time.
Isn't it funny what a heart attack can do.
I've run more in the last month, than I have in over a year. I could barely run after my failed marathon in Wisconsin last year. Pain, then more pain, then depression set in .
Isn't it funny what a heart attack can do.
To get me geared up about running, I've thought a lot about some of the amazing people I've met in my running career. I've met people who have overcome arthritis, Cancer, stroke, heart attacks, and any other malady you can think of, so they can go right foot, left foot, repeat. I've met some of the great icons in this sport: Dick Beardsley, Ryan Hall, Meb Keflezighi, Dean Karnazes, Bob Kennedy. I've made friends with people who have won races, and have finished last. All of these people have mad an imprint on my life.
If you were to ask me in high school what I would be doing in my 50s, running would not have been anywhere on my list. Winning my Oscars and Tonys would have been what I predicted for myself. You just never know where the road leaves you.
Today on my run, I thought about all of these people and things going on, and what I wanted the road ahead to look like. I came home, and I talked to Mark. I told him that I understood how freaked out he was by my heart attack....I was too. I told him I want to be around for another 40-50 years, but I understand it could all be over tomorrow, so I want to be sure I live each day the best I can. I told him I want grow old with him. I also told him that things had to change in my life in order for all the good things I want to happen. There were some tears. In the end, we agreed that we would change things in our lives to make sure we are happy and healthy, and living the best life we can.
Isn't it funny what a heart attack can do.
I have running goals again. It starts with getting stronger, gaining stamina, increasing miles, and being healthy. My goal is to run at least one more marathon. I know that will take time. I understand the steps to get there. It starts with right foot, left foot repeat, and goes from there. 5Ks will come. Half marathons will be run. I will do 26.2 miles again. I'm determined.
Isn't it funny what a heart attack can do.
This week my longest run was almost 3 1/2 miles. I felt good. I wasn't fast, but I didn't care. I ran. Today's run was 2 miles. It was a beautiful run. Saw plenty of happy people out on the trail. I enjoyed myself and running.
Isn't funny what a heart attack can do. The Heart sometimes has to let you know what's going on, in order to make important changes.
Dear Heart - the next time you have a message for me, could we not make it so dramatic?
Hugs,
Charlie
1 comment:
Hey Charlie. As a fellow clydesdale runner (people over 200 lbs) myself, have you ever considered mixing up your running with elyptical workouts? I've found that it enables me to get in better shape faster. You can train harder, train longer and more often (if that is what you wish to do).
Or just do it on off days at slow pace. It generally offers the benefits of running without the pounding of the joints, which is something us clydesdales have to be ever concerned about much more than the average runner.
After all, whether you are big or tall, we still have the same joints as small people. That extra weight takes a toll on our joints.
Also, when you do run, do you try to train on soft surfaces? By my mid 30's, I abandoned the asphalt and went to trail running for distance runs and for short sprints, went to grass fields or artificial turf. Longevity is the goal my man. :)
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