I usually believe the crazy thoughts that enslave my brain are mine and mine alone. But recently I read an article in Runner’s World by Robert Sullivan that hit the nail in my head.

I started running to get healthy and achieve a goal of running a marathon. It wasn’t a fad. It wasn’t a New Year’s resolution. It was a lifestyle choice. I’m proud of what I’ve become. I know what it took to get my fat ass out of bed and hit the pavement. It’s a commitment and it’s not easy. Now that I’ve running has become my new obsession, I want to spread the word. I want to encourage others to get the same joy and fulfillment that running has given me.

This brings us to my point. When I run and happen to pass a walker, runner or biker (I’ll get to them in another post) I like to give a slight acknowledgment to let them know we’re in it together. We’re out there and we’re doing what we enjoy to do – we’re family. It’s that little nod that says “yes my fellow warrior – haul your ass up that hill – you can do it.” 

Turns out, not everybody feels the same way!!! Not that anybody has every been rude about it. Come to think of it, we’re passing each other and it’s not like we’re standing in line at Albertson’s. If somebody’s across the street, I’ll watch to see if they look my way and give them a wave. If they don’t, it’s no big deal we just go on our way. Although more people are running every year, we’re still small in number. I guess I just want to let the other person they’re not alone in their quest.

I now start my campaign to come up with a universal “sign” that only us runner’s share. One that says “you da man – you go girl – and keep up the good work” all in one. I want to be able to roll down my window and flash it to the guy that runs around Spanish Trail everyday. RUNNERS UNITE!!!

RMFR

I run alone. Not necessarily by choice but because everybody else I know that runs lives nowhere close to me. Running alone allows my brain to take over. Like you, I have my training schedule. Telling you when to take it easy and when to pick up the pace. I’m no expert, but I’ve never been able to stick to the plan for any given day – my brain takes over. I’m creative by genetics and I have no control when my mind takes over. I don’t know if it’s a defense mechanism or just the laws of nature at work but my mind plays games with me when I’m running.

Typically, I run early in the morning or late in the evening – as my schedule allows. I don’t usually see a lot of “runners” when I’m out but when I do, “it” takes over. I’ve classified “my prey” in 3 categories:

Bunnies – these may be casual runners and/or folks keeping a New Year’s Resolution. “Joggers” if you’re of that mindset. When you see them, you know you can catch them. It’s that goal that you know is attainable and you push a little to show them that you’re NOT a bunny.

Rabbits – these “runners” are folks you’ve probably seen before. Not the casual runner but somebody that’s really out there trying. Usually they trek along at the same pace as you or somewhere close. Rabbits are GREAT pace setters and serve as a great motivator to pick up your pace. You feel a greater sense of accomplishment if you can overtake a Rabbit.

Hares – here lies the top of the food chain. These enthusiasts live and die by the runner’s credo. You can tell who they are from the second you see them. They’re lean, mean and totally in control of their being as a runner. You strive to have their stride and stamina. If you were in the same room, they probably wouldn’t give you the time of day. You know they’re fast. You know you can’t catch them but oh what a chase!!! I might not catch them but I’d rather chase a hare than a bunny any day of the week.

Whether it’s an “easy” day or a “pace” day, the appearance of one my Leporidae friends will definitely affect my pace.

RMFR