Sunday, June 10, 2012

Terrain Training

I often use exercise as a metaphor for life because in a short span of time you experience a microcosm of many of the same struggles, triumphs, frustrations and euphoria, and at the end, you will recognize the results of your work.

I started running when I was 16. Now at the age of 52, I am very comfortable with running. Sometimes I approach training with dread, but now I know in the back of my mind with certainty, that I will feel better when I am done. After all of these years of using my muscles and strengthening myself, I feel sluggish if I go too long without exercising.

As I dress for training I still experience anxiety, because I always run rigorously. (I'd rather stay sitting on the couch). I remind myself that as soon as I walk out of the door everything will change. The first steps are always easy and rhythmical. Usually when I hit the first hill, my body locks up. It is hard to breath, and my legs don't move. I have learned to  to relax here. This phase is short-lived and I will be moving effortlessly again. Every time I do get fatigued I try to think of ways to inspire myself to work through that moment... I make a short-term goal like "run to the next intersection, or around the next corner" and by the time I am there I usually feel better already.

I also know my limitations. I am not the greatest runner, and I do not want to spend my whole day exercising. But I do place regular demands on myself which I know are good for me mentally and physically.

There will always be uphill terrains in life. The key is to welcome them as positive events that challenge your spirit and your ability, teach you perseverance, and make you stronger. Remember that on the other side of every hill is a view from the top and an easy run down.



QUOTES
Dr. Peter Snell - Dir. Human Prfm. Laboratory, UTSwtrn. Med.Ctr.,Dallas,TX., and Triple Gold-Medal Olympian
"When it's pouring rain, and you're bowling along through the wet,there's satisfaction in just knowing you're out there and the others aren't."

Henry David Thoreau - Philosopher
"Me thinks that the moment my legs begin to move, my thoughts begin to flow."

Joe Catalano - Coach
"Many people shy away from hills. They make it easy on themselves, but that limits their improvement. The more you repeat something, the stronger you get."