Inspiration from the Worldwide Running Community

In this episode we ask listeners how they got into long distance running and what running has taught them about life. In the quick tip segment we share of list of books that will fuel your passion!

From the Running Community with Love . . .

We just wrapped up the first ever MTA Podcast Virtual Half Marathon. The quotes and stories you will hear in this episode are from folks who participated in the event.

What are some of the reasons/factors that got you into long distance running?

For me, I traded addictions. Before I turned 30 I smoked and drank a lot. I couldn’t keep up with my kids and was always sick. Although I quit smoking I gained a lot of weight. My sister in law started running so I started with her. We signed up for 5ks, 5 milers, 10ks, then a sprint triathlon. Neither of us were fast but we were having fun challenging each other. We both trained for a half marathon and knew the next step was a marathon. Now after 7 marathons and dozens of halfs we’re both in our 50’s. I’m still working toward my BQ. This is a much better addiction. -Kathleen H.

4 years ago my wife out of the blue decided to run a marathon. When she told me I said, “have fun with that. I’m never doing more than a mile.” She really got into it and eventually I got forced to run a 5k with her. After that I was hooked and that lead to 10k’s, half marathons and so forth. –David L.

When I hit menopause early I felt I need to do something weight bearing to off set my greater risk of osteoporosis and relieve menopause symptoms. Initially I just wanted to run 30 minutes without stopping and I hit that goal fairly early on. Then I decided to try a local 5k and the rest is history. I just finished my 2nd marathon. –Jodi S.

I trained for and ran my first marathon at age 56, my dad’s age when he had a heart attack. My way of affirming life and the value of health, fitness, friendship and the whole mind-body connection. -Scott P.

In 2013 I was very overweight and unhealthy, I had been for many years. I decided I needed to make a change, so I started walking, a quarter of a mile was tough for me at the time, but I kept going . . . Fast forward and I’ve run 9 half marathons and am signed up for my first marathon in Jan. It’s amazing what the human body is capable of. –Jessica A.

What is one thing running has taught you?

I learned to dream big and go for it as I train for my first marathon. -Amy W.

There is no bad weather, only wrong clothing. There is beauty in everything, we don’t always see and appreciate it though.” -Konstantin K.

The benefits of running are mental, even more so than physical. Going for a run in fresh air improves your mood, clears your mind and helps you think through problems. All of that and your clothes fit better. -Eli S.

Setting goals that are achievable is as important as setting goals that are a little scary. Achieving goals you set for yourself in running makes everything else in life seem more manageable.” -Katie L.

We are stronger than we think! Our mind/thoughts are very powerful. Pre-race anxiety is our inner voice cheering us on. -Judy S.

Running reflects life. . . sometimes it feels amazing and invigorating…sometimes it feels sluggish and difficult and sometimes in between. But no matter what it brings on any given day, it makes us better, stronger, more compassionate, more grateful, more confident, and hopefully faster. -Coach Jennifer Giles

Big thanks to everyone who left a reply to our questions! As you will hear in the episode, we read dozens and dozens of thoughtful and inspiring comments. We definitely had more then we could use for one episode.

I hope you take a moment and answer these questions for yourself. Look back on the progress you’ve made as a runner, you will probably be amazed at how far you’ve come.

Photos from the MTA Virtual Half

Ran the virtual half on board USS Nimitz on 22 November on a treadmill (yuck) with a great view. The rocking of the ship does add a little bit of a challenge, but all went well! Completed the half in 2:7:49s (with a trip over the international date line in the middle)! -Daniel M..

MTA Virtual Half done! A great way to spend my last long run this year. Not my best time but I was determined to enjoy the surroundings for once despite the miserable weather in Scotland. Your browser does not support the audio element.

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