February 13, 2012
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Running
I decided to try and qualify for the 2013 NYC Marathon. In order to do so, you have to run 9 races and volunteer for one, the previous calendar year.
Personally, I hate running. Unlike a lot of runners, I don’t get the “runner’s high” like they do. It’s a chore and it’s boring, which makes it so much more difficult. What I do like are challenges and playing other sports. These races will push me to train and get me into better shape.
I’ve already begun running and lifting again. Last year’s Spartan Race really kicked my ass. I’m not the giving up type, but I almost have up. I’m really looking forward to do better this year.
Will Smith once said that he loved to run. It was because it’s one of those things where at a certain point, there’s a voice in your head that tells you to stop. You just have to push yourself and keep going. I’ve been at the point where I can’t lift my arms anymore from working out, but so far, have never been at the point where I couldn’t run anymore due to fatigue.
Running the marathon has always been on my list of things to do before I die. While I don’t believe in having New Year’s resolutions, this is one goal I have to cross off my list. I just hope that I don’t end up like Barney, stuck on the 6 train after the race.
Do you run? Why?
Comments (18)
I run on a treadmill and I hate it. I run for cardio, but I’d rather be cycling, rowing, swimming or any other activity that keeps you moving through space time.
which Spartan are you running, Ray?
I’m signed up for the June 2nd. 11am heat, I think.
NYC Marathon is too much work to qualify for… so I just paid to sign up for the Ultra Hike in Septemeber.
I run if something is chasing me. I never have been able to convince myself to exercise for the sake of exercising. I’ll haul wood and dig ditches all day if you like, but if nothing like that needs done, I’ll probably be up a tree with a camera or book.
I feel the same way about running. I used to run a lot and never once did I experience that “runner’s high”… I wish I did. I ran regularly at one point because it’s a great full body work out. That was the only reason… I despise every second of running, but I dd it anyway. I don’t believe in new year’s resolutions either but this year… I decided I would at least finish a half marathon this year. I’m training for one and dread every moment of it… haha…
You usually don’t get “runner’s high” until you run at least 6-8 miles. I never experienced “runner’s high” until I had to run 10 miles… And honestly, it was a great feeling, but I don’t think I’d ever run 6-8 miles just to experience it again.
I have to really force myself to run, and like you, I’ve never had that “runner’s high”. Maybe it’s because I’m a slow runner, so it doesn’t really do much for me haha.
I generally get my cardio through hiking and cycling. They’re more rewarding to me, and a lot more fun too.
Anyway, best of luck on your marathon!
what the hell is a runner’s high! i wish i could experience that. jason runs and he runs HARD (100+ miles) coz he’s a triathlete, but he HATES running. it’s something that he has to do, though, if he wants to do the ironman one day. as much as i hate running, i told jason that i would do a tri after he does his tenth one, so i gotta start running soon!
@Konrado - yea i LOVE cardio. just hate running. why is it that a lot of ppl aren’t fans of running.
I like running because it works out / relieves tension in my
whole body (as opposed to other forms of exercise that focus on just one are) &
leaves me time to clear my head while I do it.
Plus it’s a really simple way to exercise – all you need are good shoes
and a long stretch of road.
Remember to keep a positive mental attitude, stay hydrated, and avoid nipple-chaffing! (HIMYM reference)
@MaximusMan - Probably the same one as you, though I’m not sure if it’s still open. I want to do it with the same group as last year, but who knows. I’ll let you know when I sign up. This time, I’m definitely NOT doing it with dress shoes again. lol.
@davidian - When I was training for the marathon a few years back (before I hurt my knee), I was up to about 15-16 miles and still didn’t. Yeah, I think it’s not possible for everyone.
-ray leeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
i really hate running for the sake of running, sometimes i do it to stay fit, but it isn’t on the list of activities I enjoy.
I think I would rather play basketball or soccer or something, running sports are fun.
@jigg - you want to try and run it earlier b/c on the 2nd day, the track conditions are pretty awful and you’ll waste a lot of time.
http://www.spartanrace.com/tristate-obstacle-racing-spartan-sprint-2012.html
it’s a Spartan Sprint, but I’m going for TIME on this one.
@MaximusMan - Yeah… I’ve done a couple of these kinds of races and noticed how crazy terrible the conditions must be for the later participants. I’ve always done the early waves because I like to get it out of the way and spend the rest of the day to chill.
So far, I have about 5 people who are down, so we should be signing up soon.
See you there, Clark!
-ray leeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
is the runner’s high when your shins and knee start hurting like hell?
i run… from my demons.
and to feel that glorious, burning pain.
I don’t like running because I have asthma. The only time that I need to run is at gym or when I’m chasing after the bus. ^_^
I’m in agreement with you– I hate running. But I do run, because I need the cardio to supplement other activities, specifically martial arts. I like not being so gassed out that people start punching my face in without resistance.
Your entry reflects exactly how I feel about running…