The First Run of the Season

I enjoyed a great run tonight.

Actually, it was pretty terrible in terms of speed, endurance, and general form – but the fact that I got out there and actually ran was more than enough for me. Running is easy enough to do with a little training, but motivating yourself to get back out there after taking a break is a challenge.

Here are a few tips for your first run of the season:

• Keep it short and expect to walk more than usual.
• Take in the sights and sounds of your run. Experience your surroundings.
• Set small goals – like running to the next stop sign. Celebrate each achievement.
• Breathe deeply and really concentrate on the flow of air in your body.
• Skip the headphones and pay attention – get back into the flow of things before you cut out the sound of motorists and other hazards.
• Don’t skip your post-run stretch.

I enjoyed all of the familiar sights, sounds, and smells on my evening run – it made the whole process of getting back on the road so much more bearable. Of course, I walked far more than usual and found myself quickly out of breath. My years of running have taught me that this is just the starting point.

There’s always plenty of room to build.