Joan Benoit Samuelson and Getting Started Running

"The challenge and the energy running requires may be a selfish one, but it actually motivates me to be stronger in my relationships." This quote is by Joan Benoit Samuelson, sent by Tony, and is the focus for today’s topic. He took a leave of absence, from running, for roughly 5 years partially as a result of injury issues.  He mentioned that during that time he did not run, he gained roughly 20 pounds. We talked about how difficult it is to get in a run especially while working. He gave a couple of examples: he would meet Tom for a lunch hour run during the work week; and then run Wednesday evening at the Overlook. At times he said he got to the Overlook  late and would have to run like mad to catch up to the group. He did not like to feel rushed. Occasionally, I met Tom and Tony for a noon hour run and or a Wednesday evening run with the group. For me, I like to run in the morning and simply get it done so I have the rest of the day to myself. Figure out the best time to run or exercise for yourself.

Tony mentioned that during time off from running,Debbie encouraged him to start up again. He told me that starting up is difficult. I agree that it is difficult especially after years of layoffs. So what did he do to get started? You can start on the trail or start in the gym on a treadmill. Tony did begin his running on the treadmill. For him that worked fine because he could adjust his time, change the speed, and adjust the elevation using that machine. He found that when he went on the trail it was more difficult at first. But after a while, he improved and running trail became easier for him. The lesson here is to start by taking baby steps and then increasing the amount of steps or the distance. One rule of thumb is let’s say you began by taking a walk for 15 minutes. I suggest that you walk 3 to 4 times a week and then by the third week increase that time by five minutes. So every three weeks increase the time until you reach 30 minutes or so. Then, do a run -walk for 15 minutes three or four times a week and build on that every three weeks until you reach 30 minutes 3 to 4 times a week. The next step is to begin running easily for 15 minutes and build up to a longer run. This is one idea for getting started.

Returning to running for Tony improved both his mental and physical condition. He agrees with Joan. He believes that his attitude is better and as a consequence improves his relationship at home. We know that running is a healthy activity. Get inspired. It’s okay began a new activity by taking baby steps. A physical activity can help improve physical fitness, losing weight, reducing anxiety, and minimizing depression. If that sounds familiar it is because it is my number one prescription to improving your life. Just ask Tony.
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