It’s been one of those weeks, where talking about running seems trivial and yet so important in so many ways.
It’s obvious that running defines me. It almost always has, and I hope it always does.
The “loneliness of the long distance runner” was probably one of the things that attracted me to this sport in middle school, but it’s the community of runners that has kept me in this sport for some 24 years.
I’m grateful to every runner who’s path I’ve crossed and I’m especially grateful to the running community in NYC. You make my heart swell.
With some extra time on my hands to train, I’ve been making the most of my workouts this week. I can’t say I exactly stuck to my workout plan from last week, but I can say that I had some really great workouts.
I was able to finally find my rhythm while running alone. I’ve never been one to listen to music on my runs, but I’ve recently started taking my iPod with me. I’ve noticed it helps me shut out the chaos of Central Park on a sunny weekend day and helps me get into a zone that’s eluded me for some time.
I’m not sure I actually listen to the music, but there’s something about putting those ear-buds in my ears that helps transport me to another place. I give other things less attention and let my legs and lungs carry some of my stress away.
Say it, Do it!
- Mile Repeats
- 18 mile long run
- 2 easy runs (one short, one mid-distance)
- one spin class
- two days of core work
Do you run with music? How do you find your groove running solo after running with friends for so long?
Let me know in the comment section what workouts you’re committing to this week or if you’re doing your own SIDI it post this week leave me the link so I can check it out!
I definitely always have my iPod. I’m always on the search for awesome work-out tunes to share 🙂 I do agree, just having the earphones in your ear helps you tune out. I definitely enjoy running solo, but there is nothing like a buddy, even a silent one, on a looong run.
When I started running on a regularly basis in college, I always brought my iPod with me. Listening to music helped pump me up and get me into that zone. Sometimes I’d zone out and not totally listen, but I’d always have my iPod. However, since I started doing triathlons and training with a team, I rarely use my iPod during runs; now, I find it distracts me. I still listen to music when I strength train, though!
http://fitnessandfrozengrapes.com/2013/04/21/write-it-down-do-it-up-week-of-april-21/
This week left me feeling very grateful and lucky as well. I broke up a 12 mile run by running with a friend for 7, but I made myself run the last 3.5 by myself at a faster pace because I won’t be running with anyone for my races so I need to be used to it! I definitely rely on music to motivate me when I’m by myself.
http://www.jensbestlife.com/2013/04/workout-recap-and-weekly-goals-feeling.html
Beautiful post.
Fortunate to have such an awesome community.
I run with music 25% of the time. Sometimes, you’re right, it takes the weight away and you can focus elsewhere. This week, I needed it:)
I have been trying to reduce the amount that I use music when I run. I am doing a lot of trail running and like listening to nature. For the roads I use it still if I am solo because I mean hey, I live in DC, cars honking isn’t exactly relaxing.
Love this, especially the point about the headphones. Most of the time I *don’t* run with headphones because part of the reason I run is to shut the other stuff out…but sometimes when even a run can’t do that, I’ll plug in the headphones, and you’re right, I’m not even always listening.
I just love keeping fit myself and look forward to seeing all the girls when I am out on a run. It helps to keep me going. Enjoyed the post.