I’ve been running for quite some time now & while I love running most of the time…I have to admit that I have a Love/Hate relationship with it & sometimes running really sucks!
I’m in the middle of a pretty intense Master’s course at present & suffice to say I haven’t had the time or the energy to get out for runs as frequently as I used to. The days, when I have managed to drag myself out for a casual jog, have resulted in some royally crappy runs, where I’ve wanted to stop & walk home.
It got me thinking about running & the sometimes daily struggle, there is to get out & continue to push your body both mentally & physically from start to finish.
So, that being said…Here are the emotional stages of running from beginner to seasoned pro!
1. The Beginning: the burning lungs, the tired legs & what seems like the impossible road ahead…It feels like you’re never going to be able to get the hang of it….
2. Improvement: You slowly begin to improve, every day you are running a little further & it feels like you might actually be able to run without stopping some day soon.
3. Race Day: Your first 5k/10k – this is what you’ve been working towards & the accomplishment feels great…..You’re flying, beating everybody….
4. Nailed it!? You think you finally have this running thing nailed & then……Reality hits!
If you are anything like me and you continue to incorporate running into your weekly exercise routine, your runs will tend to go a little like this:
Week 1 – This is Awful!
Week 2 – I feel Great!
Week 3 – This is Awful!
Week 4 – I feel Great!
Week 5 – This sucks!
To sum it up, whether you’re new to running or someone who runs regularly, we all have those days when something just feels *off* and running feels like the worst thing in the world.
But, I think the thing to always try to remember is that with the off days also come the great days, those days where you feel like you could run for miles……so persevere & keep going! You’ll always have more days where you’ll say “I feel better for going out & getting through it” then the days you’ll say “That sucked, I’m never running again” …
Plus…always keep in mind that Running should be somewhat enjoyable….if it’s not, you’re probably not doing it right!
The Runners Mile 