Tuesday, December 19, 2006

I run for life

...If you ask her why she is still running
She'll tell you it makes her complete

I run for hope
I run to feel
I run for the truth
For all that is real
I run for your mother your sister your wife
I run for you and me my friend
I run for life


-Melissa Etheridge, "I run for life"

I recently added this song to my iPod playlist. So far, everytime that I have listened to it while on the treadmill, I've gotten emotional. (Hmm, would you find it odd to see someone crying on the treadmill?) Melissa Etheridge wrote it for "Race for the Cure," in support of breast cancer charities. When I listen to the song, I think of the reasons why I run. I've participated in the Run for the Cure for the past few years; that is definitely one motivation. Running is something that is so much more than a hobby for me. It helps me battle depression...it gives me confidence...not to mention that it gives me a strong body that is capable of more than I had ever imagined.

When my running is not going well, it has a negative effect on me. I feel fat, unhealthy, and unhappy. This is how I was feeling last week. I struggled with my runs; my legs felt heavy and my heart rate was too high, no matter how slowly I ran. By Friday, I was frustrated and decided to take a few days off. I told myself to rest up and try running again on Tuesday (today). I ran on the treadmill after work and it was fantastic. My legs felt light, my heart rate stayed steady, and I felt like I could run forever :) 11 km done, in 1:22. I kept it slow for the first hour to keep my HR in zone 2, then gradually sped up. It felt great! And, it really lifted my spirits...just in time for Christmas? :)

If things continue to go well for the rest of the week, and the weather co-operates, I will head out to Hamilton next week to tackle the Boxing Day 10-miler. I won't be racing it, but just running for the fun of it. For once, I will try to run an event at a comfortable pace :)

1 comment:

Cliff said...

Boxign Day 10 miler?....

hmm..maybe i can join u :D..