Running lately has looked a lot different than what I originally pictured for 2024. I have spent the equivalent of 4 weeks this year being sick or recovering from being sick. That time off set me back a lot, regarding my yearly running mileage goal of 801 miles. In fact, I’m 95% sure I will not reach that goal. I did the math, and when I saw the weekly mileage I needed, I said, “Nope.” Because, again, this year I’m keeping it simple.
So, what exactly does that mean and look like for me? Well, I’ve tossed out my running schedule. I’ve started this thing where I only run when I feel like running. I try to run at least once per week as long as my schedule allows for it - because as we all know: life happens. So, that’s the new goal. It’s taken a lot of pressure off of me, mentally, and I’m not stressing over having to hit a specific weekly mileage. When out on group runs I’m usually asked, “How many miles do you need?” And it’s very liberating to answer with, “I’m down for whatever y’all want to run, I don’t have a set amount.”
Now, I get that there’s something to be said for discipline, and doing things even on days you don’t want to. I could regurgitate all of these toxic gym/exercise quotes about “pushing yourself because no one else will,” or “quitters don’t get results.” But I’ve learned, that going hard 24/7 is NOT it. And when something you once enjoyed starts to become a cause of stress in your life, then maybe it's time to scale back. And honestly, there are times when I know I’m just being lazy or coming up with excuses not to run. But I’ve felt so much better, and happier since implementing this way of approaching running. I’m seeing my family more, and getting more sleep. My home life doesn’t revolve around a run schedule, and while some days I do solo runs that are hard - it’s because I want to. It’s because I feel like it. It’s not a chore. It’s not forced. I feel good about each run. And running is starting to feel relaxing again - fun even.
I’ve also stopped being so concerned with my pace. Which isn’t always easy, because I can be a little competitive. And while I know I originally wanted to focus a bit on speedwork this year, one of my hips has been acting up. Usually around mile 5 or 6, and the pain sticks around for a day or two. So, I’ve stuck with easy paces that feel comfortable and maintainable for me. Also, I have reluctantly started doing short 20-minute yoga sessions to help with my mobility. The hope is that it will help my hip get back to feeling better. Y’all, I am not flexible. In fact, I’m very rigid and tight. So, I’m not a huge fan of yoga, but I wanted to try something at home before hitting up a physical therapist for this issue. Fingers crossed that increased flexibility and stretching will do the trick.
And that’s been my approach for the past few weeks. Just doing my best. Running for fun. Tackling some solo runs, and then enjoying some miles with friends. The other day I ran across this reel by herms.runs, and as I was going through the comments I realized that my desire to make running simple was something other runners were really into as well. And sometimes, others felt it was necessary. So, I feel like I'm on the right track, and it's reinforced my resolve to continue with it for the rest of the year.
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