Running: Just A Little Bit Easier
Run enough and eventually it doesn't always feel like torture. Kinda.
Now that I've been running consistently for a while, I've taken particular enjoyment from one specific aspect of the sport - not the cute running outfits or the race bling or the metrics and pace times. It's the feeling of fitness and strength knowing that I am stronger and that I can do more and more. It's running 11 miles in the morning and then playing soccer in the evening and not feeling like I've been run over by a train. It's hiking all day and coming home quiet and content, but not completely drained. It's the confidence that I could keep going, the simple affirmation of I CAN.
I remember what a tough time I had when I first started logging higher miles. Ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen miles - these seemed impossible distances the first and second times. Now I'm training these distances for a third time as I ramp up for the Not So Normal half marathon and the Tar Heel 10 Miler this spring.
On Sunday during my long run the 11 miles still seemed grueling, but not as bad as I remembered. They were a little bit better, just a little bit easier.
Let's hope that training always gets just a little bit easier. In the meantime, if you haven't signed up for the Tar Heel 10 Miler check out this link to register and use the code "FriendsRun" for $5 off the registration fee!
(Note: I get $5 off my registration fee if you use the link. Please and thanks!).
Oh yeah. And don't forget I'm fundraising!