Today was my 7th day of running, and it's been an interesting ride so far.
For instance, I have suddenly been WAY more active in chasing my other goals. I look back and see a deep layer of passivity in how I lived my life, something that is only really just now changing. I mean, I got a Master's degree and built a successful counseling practice while working 80 hour weeks, so I'm not a stranger to hard work, but this is different.
I find I am less interested in sitting back and letting things just... happen, and more interested in getting in there and creating the space where things happen. This is still new to me, but I couldn't have predicted it. I'm sure I'll comment more on this as I go.
I am also actively working on changing my past attitude about running. Now, when my legs are killing me and I want to stop, I repeat to myself, "I love the pain of running. I want to do this. I want to embrace the pain of change and challenging myself in this. I love to run even when it hurts."
I used to say stuff like, "Man, this sucks. I hate running. This hurts so bad, I just can't keep going, etc." Figured changing my language will go a long ways.
I'm not sure I believe my new narrative yet, but I'm repeating it to myself right in the most painful moments, so I expect it will eventually become true.
I hope this turns out wonderful for you.
ReplyDeleteIf it's hurting that badly you might have something wrong.
ReplyDeleteSoreness is normal. It accompanies growth and it usually fades as you get into your next run.
Real pain is your body telling you that something isn't right.
Shoes, muscle imbalance, over-tightness, un-addressed injury...all of these can cause pain while running. Each of them also has the capacity to end your running career if not addressed appropriately.
Blessedly each of them is also usually resolveable.
Have you found the high yet?
*snort* No high yet. Looking forward to it when it comes. ;)
DeleteI'm pretty sure the pain is within normal range for an out of shape overweight guy trying to run. I know soreness vs injury, I've had both in past exercise stints.
Good. I'm glad your pain is growth.
DeleteIf you're only up to 1.5 miles then you've got a bit before you hit the high. You'll get there though and it sounds like you're already enjoying benefits.
Don't forget to stretch.