Honestly, this is a lot of runs for me. But that kind of becomes my zen. I’m not thinking about work, I’m not thinking about all my stresses, my mind is just occupied with where to put my foot next and getting through this. Yes, it’s boring, but I don’t have enough opportunities to be bored without feeling guilt. Boredom for me is letting my mind relax.
And forcing yourself to notice and appreciate your surroundings (beyond the endless ribbon of concrete) helps. I saw a beautiful sunrise yesterday; if I’d seen it out my window, I would have enjoyed it for a few seconds before moving on to the other dozen things demanding my attention. But instead I watched the colors change for 15 minutes as I ran. I read this post from Runner’s World every now and then to remind myself.
All that said, it’s personal. If running doesn’t do it for you, finding another sport you’re more likely to stick with is the right thing to do.
As for listening to music while I run, I originally got an armband phone holder from Walmart but it was incredibly uncomfortable. Then I went online and got a silicone phone lanyard. It’s great!
For anyone who runs without their phone, consider how nice it would be to have emergency services (or your family) at your fingertips should something bad happen.
A month ago I was out running over lunchtime and I tripped over my shadow and got pretty serious road rash on my hands and knees from concrete. It was already over 90F outside, so my body was in no shape to go back home–I was feeling like I would pass out, and my vision was getting wonky.
A quick call to the homestead and my wife drove up to rescue me from the curb where I was sitting.
That would have sucked much more had I not had a phone.
I’ve been on the fence with getting my gait analyzed for a while now, but after seeing that (most likely) have a horrible instep, I was analyzed this weekend.
Horrible instep confirmed.
I’m not breaking in my new Asics with extra support in the hopes of getting them broken in before the marathons start.
Yesterday’s highlight was getting barked at by a dog while its owner apologetically explained “he doesn’t like beards”.
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Incidentally, if there are any other middle-aged (or older) women who need some running inspiration, I recently read Older, Faster, Stronger.. The author goes a little overboard in her training methinks but it was good inspiration to mix up my running a bit (I am doing one run with intervals now and some bicycling) and I liked the info on how keeping active through middle age and beyond is incredibly beneficial.
The first time I tried running I managed to get in one week before taking a ten year hiatus.
On a side note, I did my first run today with Apple Watch OS 3. I think I am going to like it–they seem to have gotten rid of the useless fluff and concentrated on fitness for this go-round. All the better for runners.
Can’t wait until my new waterproof and GPS-capable watch comes in.
This thread has inspired me to up my weekly mileage and start trying to increase my pace. Last weekend, I ran the longest run I ever have - 14.16 miles. That’s kinda down to you, so thanks, TCS!
That would be condescending, yes, but you can nod to her. I exchange nods with just about every runner I pass - quietly acknowledging our common membership in the Confraternity of the Pounded Pavement.
