Training is Fun ??

 I am sure this is not what I would always think or even how I would feel after every training run but it was certainly true last week. It was just one of those days where everything was clicking smoothly and I was thoughtful about why I like this sport so much. I was running with Kevin and Sam, two of my three teammates on our next relay race, and we had decided to run the forest trails this morning and then run again on our own this afternoon. We are attempting to simulate our race day strategy that we will face next month in the Virginia event. Trail running always presents a higher percentage of potential injuries but provides an elevated cardio and core strengthening work out. Our theory is the trail runs will make us better runners on the pavement. That is actually a theory that has been tested and proven to be true.

 I usually make it my intention to run alone. Some of you that know me or at least keep up with our blog understand that my running time is always used for reflection and discernment. This morning was different in that I was running with two of my teammates for the Colonial 70. It was an enjoyable run as we interjected some conversation among jumping roots and rocks along the way. It occurred to me while running the trails that this training run was also a reflection of the race day camaraderie. We all had the same purpose and goal to achieve with today’s run. I also notice that we were checking up on each other during the run. I remember hearing on several occasions someone stating, everyone OK? We were conscience of keeping up with the well being of each other. This run also caused me to think about why race relay events have become my new favorite. You get to do something that you enjoy so much and you get to do it with other folks that have the same appreciation for your sport. So,,,, lace em up and go run with someone.

Need?

I go through phases when running, alternating between listening to music, podcasts, radio, or nothing at all.  Lately, I have been casting about trying to figure out what works best; some days the radio works, while others nothing at all has been the best option.

On my run the other day, though, i had my mp3 player on shuffle, and this older song from a band called Grammatrain came up, called need (click here to listen).  I have heard this song hundreds of times before, but it really struck me this time.

It reminded me that there are many things I think I "need" to get by; I need my morning coffee, my music at work, and that long run to clear my head.  I "need" to check my email, my twitter feed, or texts.  I "need" to do what I think I want to do.

In fact, as this song reminded me:

"If I see myself for what I am / It only shows me that I need you."

and also:

"But if I was what I should be / wouldn't I be on my knees."

So, what do you think you need?  What can you not live without?  Do you really see yourself, for who you are, and recognize what you truly need?  Perhaps a long run will help you answer those questions a bit, as this last one did for me.