Why Run?

I headed out for my major marathon training run for the week this afternoon. What a way to spend your Sunday afternoon! The goal was somewhere between 2.5hrs and 3 hrs of running, 25km to 30km, or something like that. Well that never happened did it. This time I wasn't beaten physically, in the sense of my knee giving out, that still hurts however and I am off to see a specialist tomorrow. Today I was beaten mentally. There wasn't a cloud in the sky and the sun was scorching. I nailed 8.5kms in good time, no worries. That was one lap and it that took me back to my house. To then leave my house for another lap... well I never left. I felt strong in my legs and in my heart and lungs. Mentally though I had nothing. It was too hot and seemed to long to be in the sun.

At the end of the day I think I hate running. I just thought it would be a good idea to do a marathon and tick that off the list of things to do in life. I think I still think that is a good idea.

Got me wondering though. Could I come up with 10 good reasons to run? Well here goes, in no particular order.

1. It gets you outside into fresh air and some beautiful surrounds. Beats being stuck inside all day.

2. It gets you and/or keeps you fit and healthy.

3. It beats walking. If you are walking to keep fit you may as well run. It takes your heart rate up a level walking never will and improves your cardio vascular fitness in a way walking never will either. If its just about burning calories then you'll burn in 15 minutes running what would take you 45 minutes walking. If you are new to exercise, start by walking but build up to running. Sorry walkers, but hey my blog!

4. If you like the occasional Corona, glass of Shiraz or cold Ginger Beer; then running is a must. Keeps the belly in behind the belt.

5. Regular running provides a great mental challenge. Even if you are not training for a marathon, running 3 or 4 times a week for 30 minutes is a great mental challenge. Physically, once you can do it, you can do it. Mentally though, to stay consistent for 4 runs a week for 10 weeks or so is a big mental challenge and test of your discipline. Well worth taking on and well worth the effort.

Ok there's five, I'll come up with another 5 soon. In the meantime; get running!