Falling in love with running
When I started running, I already had a strong cardio and aerobic base to work from. Transitioning from my gym workouts to road running wasn’t much of a leap. But I know that for some people, it’s a big step lacing up their running shoes for the first time.
Taking up running is just like courting that special someone. Don't believe me? Here are some ways they're similar:
Finding a mutual friend. If in courtship it’s easier to meet a prospective someone through friends in common, it’ll be easier to get into running if you have a friend who’s already into it. Your friend will introduce you two, help you find some common ground to start from. Maybe you could even go on group dates — I mean, run as a group. It’ll do wonders for your motivation if you have someone who encourages you to go for it.
Getting all dressed up. Just as you want to make a good impression on a first date by stepping out in your best finery, you will also need to wear the good stuff for running. Have yourself fitted out with running-specific shoes that are suited for your feet and gait. If you know you sweat like an ice-cold bottle of Coke on a hot day, consider investing in one or two shirts with sweat-wicking properties. As for lower garments, look for shorts that will allow your legs to move freely without chafing in the crotch area. Yes, that’s important. Teehee.
Taking it slow. You don’t expect the one you’re courting to be immediately comfortable with you — especially if you two have just gotten acquainted. Same thing with running: you can’t expect to take off and do 21K on your first day, much less continuously run for one kilometer. Such things take time. But…
Being persistent. Like the saying goes, “Kapag may tiyaga, may nilaga.” Serious suitors show up almost every day, if not in person then via other means to make sure the one they are courting knows they’re around and gets used to them being around. In running, you’ve got to run regularly. Not necessarily for long kilometers at a time, but enough to get your legs used to the idea. You’ll find that when you don’t run, you miss it — just like a girl would miss her suitor when he doesn’t make himself felt.
Soon enough, you’ll find yourself falling for running, and running will love you back. You’ll run faster, go for longer, and start to look better, too (as the pounds drop off and your muscles tone up). You’ll see there’s no possible way you can live without running in your life. You’ll find yourself dreaming about a future with running, and preparing for it. And when that happens, that’s love and commitment right there.
