Running Resolutions

New Years is a great time to be a runner!  It is a time of year when many people, who have been making fun of runners all year long, make resolutions to be more like us!  They might vow to put down their pack of cigarettes and set aside time in their day to exercise.  They might promise themselves that this is the year they finally get into “shape” or get their cholesterol under control.  Many want to run to lose weight or to look good at weddings.  These are all worthy goals and admirable resolutions.  Unfortunately, most people who make these resolutions will fail because they are too focused on the outcomes and not focused enough on the process.

Runners are lucky.  We run because we enjoy the feeling and the peace of mind that comes in those post run hours.  We may be in good shape, have our weight under control, enjoy lower cholesterol, and look good at weddings, but these are not our focus.  They are fringe benefits we derive from the sport without having to try.  This does not mean that runners do not enjoy making New Year’s resolutions, only that we get to make different ones.  This year Adam and Tim are making resolutions to make their running even more enjoyable.

(Adam)

1.  Be smart and listen to my body: I have proven that ignoring pain and failing to listen to what my body is telling me is a good way to prolong injury and recovery.  This year, I want to stay healthy by listening and by taking care of little things before they become bigger problems.

2.  Take time to enjoy and appreciate the gift or running: Running has given me so much and at times I have taken it for granted.  This year I want to reflect on the beauty of this sport and how great it feels to be able to run!

3.  Get my friend Tim in better shape so he can run with me again: I read about a guy who was trying to train his dog to get into better shape so he would have a running companion.  I don’t have a dog so Tim is the next best thing!

4. Find some “Colt friendly” runs: Kara and I got a new Mountain Buggy.  I want to enjoy the sport I love with my son, so this year I will find some places where I can safely run at fast paces while Colt keeps my splits from the stroller.

(Tim)

1.  Find more great places to run: I love trails and mountain runs but I have been in a rut hitting the same ones over and over again.  This year I want to add at least three new trails to my regular rotation.

2.  Run one of those crazy mud races: I really don’t race anymore but I have always thought it would be fun to enter a race with the idea of having as much fun as possible rather than trying to beat everybody.  The annual Warrior Dash, where runners get to crawl through tunnels, jump over fire, and wade through mud might be just what I am looking for!

3.  See if I can still run a sub-5:00 mile: I have always said I want to be able to run a sub-five minute mile when I am 40.  I am not 40 yet, but I will be before long, so I need to see how close I am.

4. Play sports that having running in them: I would love to play more games like ultimate frisbee or even soccer to augment my regular runs and to vary my speeds.  This year I will join a club team in my community.

Share your running resolutions in the comments below and be sure to “like” this post!