Running Tough: Mind over Matter: Nah…Nope…Nonsense
If you get caught up with the notion that running or lifting is all mental-I wholeheartedly DISAGREE.
Sure. Many people can “get through” a 5k or an overzealous lifting session without proper training, but the consequences on your body and MOST the psyche can last a lifetime -
AND worse perpetuate the idea that “running or lifting are not for me: it's painful, hard on my knees, or I’m just not a runner/lifter.
True Story: A resolute person (love inspired people, but hear me out) who is fed up with her current state AND who hasn't run or even walked a step in years excitedly declares that this Friday she will complete a multi hour run/walk challenge or she will complete the Murphy which has participants run 2 miles around muscular endurance training. BUT, has done no (SAID) specific training to get the adaptations to healthy and happily participate and complete these cool challenges.
OUCHY. On both physical and PSYCHE!
Of course she will hate running and declare: I'm not a runner!
Let’s get this out of the way because I have seen it over and over and over: Anyone, any body type can be a runner if you want to be a runner: short, tall, skinny, fat, strong, weak, young, old, slow, fast. Of course there are special cases- i don't understand and never want to ignore true medical challenges!
But, if you can. Don’t perpetuate the lie that running is unhealthy. It strengthens your bones, heart, tissues, and mind- plus, you find best friends!
Be part of the change that shows being a goal oriented, committed person who keeps her promises to herself CAN be a runner and enjoy doing it!
And if you don't want to be a runner, stop using running as a punishment for your mind and body. Find what you get excited to conquer.
Stop bashing my sport..ha!
Do you know this person- who shows up resolute to that running challenge, physically dying to get through and SURE DOES get through
Hopefully she comes out unscathed herself from injury AND at a minimum the consequence is living with severe , debilitating pain for the next 72 hours (can you say DOMS in FIRE!).
BUT, the worst part is this individual then says: I'm not a runner; I hate running; my knees hurt when I run; my hips hurt. WELL OF COURSE!
She went from zero impact to literally leaping unilaterally for 30 plus minutes out of nowhere: your musculoskeletal system is screaming and pissed off.
In the meantime, she tells herself it's all mind over matter: Get tough; ALL OR NOTHING NOW- Running just sucks!
NO! The truth is running is hard; it takes patience, commitment, and is so very humbling!
So, next time you are considering printing - “Not a runner” on the sleeve of your team shirts; reconsider the message you are perpetuating about running and the benefits it can have on a humans overall mental, physical, emotional, social, financial, and health!
Remember, the resolute mind and aerobic system adapt QUICKLY, your bones, joints, and tissues need progressive overload to maximine adaptation, long term growth and adherence to a goal.
Listen, taxing your aerobic system and your mental strength has less consequences. Pay attention to your BODY. And if you get caught up in theis All or nothing but truly want to change your life. Let me coach you.
Come back later in the week to read PART TWO of how to change your life with a running/lifting progressive program considering your sport and goals.
It's time to the person you have always known you were meant to be. GO!
👍 🏃♀️