Why Do You Run?

It’s the question that gets asked of the runner so many times.  And it’s actually also the question that is hard to answer.

Why do you run?

I really had to give it some thought.

For me it goes back to childhood, when I enjoyed running; road, track, little athletics.  And back then it was just for fun.  I wasn't the fastest but it was enjoyable.  There was always the attraction of running in something like Sydney City 2 Surf.  But growing up in Dubbo it was a long way to go to enter a run.

So about 5 years ago, once I'd decided it was nigh time to get back into a fair level of fitness, running came as a key part.  To then be able to run the City 2 Surf was a bonus.   And the thrill of having just completed my second marathon in a not too shabby 3:21:24.  Plus there's been half marathons and other races in between.

But back to the original question, as I ask if of myself  - Why do I run?

There are a few answers, apart from "it keeps me fit" and "it helps keep my weight under control";

• It’s simple.  I just need a pair of shoes and the odd tap here and there for a drink.  I can run wherever in the world I happen to be.
• Because I can.  The time will come one day when knees, hips or general decrepitude will stop me running.  But until then I’ll keep on clocking up the Ks.
• It gives me time to think.  Running allows my mind to wander without being interrupted.  It’s a great opportunity to give business thinking some free rein.
• I like runners.  Generally speaking, we're nice people to hang around with.  We have a positive outlook and tend not to whine too much (blisters and cramps aside).
• I like myself better when I run.  I just feel good.
• It makes me feel like a kid again.  I remember when I used to run everywhere just for the sheer joy of it.  There was never any reason to stop just because I “grew up”.
• Discipline.  It’s old-fashioned, I know, but we need some discipline and routine in our lives.  It’s amazing how following a training program for a marathon keeps the mind focused.
• It’s fun, especially on those rare days when the world seems to spin under my feet and everything is effortless.
• It shows me I have the ability to suffer and suck up pain, which is much underrated in our comfortable modern world and sets me up for when times get tough.

So with an entry in for this year’s New York Marathon, I’d better get the shoes on and get moving.