Why do I love running? One of my favorite things is waking up early and running. I love running races, whether they are 5Ks or an ultramarathon. In addition, nothing beats the bling that comes along with racing. For me, running is a form of comfort and solace.
Getting up Early and Running
My usual running routes vary depending on the day. Some days I run in my neighborhood, while other days, I run in a park. But, no matter where I run, one thing always comes to mind. I always check across the street or the trail to see if anyone is nearby; it is always prudent to remain vigilant.
Once I am ready, I will begin running. Slowly at first to allow my body to warm up. While running, I acknowledge the runners who pass me by waving at them. As my shoes make contact with the pavement, I listen to the sound they make. Hearing this allows me to determine if I am lifting or dragging my feet. Once I have established the proper rhythm, I turn up the tunes and begin running.
The Joy of Running
I love running. It has always been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Whether as a child, running in the fields, or as a high school track team member. As I grew older, I discovered the joy of marathon running. Running is my solace, my escape from reality, and my me time in an ever more stressful world.
I love a long, steady run on a Saturday morning before the sun rises. When only runners, dog-walkers, and bleary-eyed revelers are around. People from all walks of life fill the streets early in the morning. Runners are like a social club all to themselves. You may often see the same people on the same route. They may cross paths with you three or four times a week. Usually, the only conversation with them is a friendly wave or nod. Nevertheless, your running friends are there, like old friends on the trails.
Running With My Friends
In addition to running solo, I am also a member of a running group. This group has members that are elite runners as well as new runners. So there is always someone to run with regardless of your pace. The camaraderie I find with this group motivates me to keep running.
During and after running, you get to know each other. When you stop at each water cooler and take a walking break, you make new friends. The conversations are always interesting. I find that running helps me build and value friendships. There is a bond among running friends. I like to tell them, “what happens on a run, stays on a run!” 😉
I Love Running Races
I love running races. They are both fun and exciting. After months of preparation and countless miles of running, racing is well worth the effort. Nothing is more exciting than waking up early on race day. Whether I am participating in a 5K, 10K, half marathon, marathon, or ultramarathon, I feel the same joy at the end of each race.
On race day, I feel butterflies in my stomach and anxiety on my face. Despite this, I plan my race day strategy aiming to surpass my personal best time. Whenever a race is about to start, I feel an intense rush of adrenaline. Immediately after that, the runners begin to run past me, and it is time to begin running.
Nothing is more rewarding than running with spectators cheering you along. The words of encouragement give you the motivation to continue. A few hours into the race, I feel my legs getting heavy and sore. Despite this, I push forward with all my strength. As I watch the finish line come into view, I know I have made it. The only question will be whether I achieved my personal best time.
Traveling to Run Races
As an avid runner, I have made it a point to run different races in different locations. Over the years, I have participated in races ranging from 5k to 50K, which were all great experiences! However, The Bay to Breakers was particularly memorable. Though it was only 12K, I had the opportunity to see the sights of San Francisco. The views were amazing, from the enormous Hayes Street hill to the painted ladies’ houses and the Golden Gate Park.
My favorite race, which I continue to talk about even now, is the San Antonio Road Runners (SARR) Prickly Pear 50K trail run. It was undoubtedly an endurance test. Through the trails, the knee-high water, and clambering over fallen tree limbs, it was unlike anything I have ever experienced. It was a challenging endeavor indeed. This race made me proud to be an ultramarathon runner.
Now that the pandemic is easing, I hope to continue running races in other cities and states. I cannot wait!
It’s All About the Bling
There is nothing more rewarding than receiving a medal at the end of a race. But, of course, you girls know that it is all about the bling. Each race metal is unique, from crystal glass to hub cap size metals. I love them all!
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Running Is My Therapy
I love running. Whenever I have had a bad day, I can slip into my running shoes and head for the road. After a few miles, I feel much better. A sense of calm spreads over me, and I begin to ease into my running rhythm.
Running is the cheapest form of therapy. Sometimes when life gets crazy, I may put my running shoes away for a little while. Busy schedules and life can sometimes get in the way. However, I always return to the sport that I love, running! Running always welcomes me back. It is like seeing an old friend I have not seen in quite some time. And in just a few miles, we catch up on what I have missed. So, once again, I am back into my running groove. And I love it!
In the End
There is nothing better than getting up early in the morning and going for a run. The reward for all the hard work of daily running is participating in races, and the bling is what makes it all worthwhile. In addition, I find that running gives me comfort and solace. All in all, these are some of the reasons why I love running so much.
Do you love running? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
I have a few more articles on running that you might like to check out:
