New Year, Measured Strides

Here we are, standing at the starting line of a new year, and I find myself reflecting on my relationship with running. I've heard tales of people who find joy in running, who embrace it with a passion I've yet to fully comprehend. But for me, running has always been a different kind of companion.

My journey with running began back in middle school soccer with "sprint laps" – a straightforward yet brutal exercise: sprint around the field as fast as possible. This high-intensity approach continued through high school, where the mantra was constantly pushing the limit. However, as I've since discovered, distance running operates on a different principle. Some research suggests that about 80% of your runs should be slow with a low heart rate, saving the high-intensity effort for the remaining 20%. This starkly contrasted my "all-out" mentality, which ultimately led to my body protesting vehemently, forcing me into a much-needed slower training pace.

In retrospect, my initial attraction to running was its lesson in discipline and the value of hard work. It's a sport that demands persistence and grit, qualities that resonated with me deeply. But I've learned that running offers more nuanced lessons than just pushing through pain. I've recently learned a crucial lesson in the importance of restraint and following a plan.

My mistake was believing I could shortcut my training program by pushing harder. The result? An exhausted body and a forced slowdown. It's been a blunt reminder that there are times when sticking to the plan is non-negotiable, especially when these plans have been tested and proven by countless others before me. Running programs are crafted by experts, honed through years of experience and understanding of human endurance and physical limits.

This experience has led me to consider: when is it okay to deviate from the established path? To push the boundaries and forge your own way? I’ve decided that such a leap is warranted when venturing into uncharted territories. When doing something unprecedented, there are no established plans or paths to follow. In these scenarios, you become the trailblazer, the one who determines the pace and the route.

As I resume my running and face the year ahead, I carry with me these dual lessons of discipline and adaptability. Running, in its unique way, mirrors life – a delicate balance of following well-trodden paths and, at times, creating our own. So, as I step into this new year, I will remember the value of both adherence to proven strategies and the courage to explore new possibilities. Here's to a year of mindful strides, both on and off the pavement.

Cheers