I love running. It’s a known fact, but I used to hate it due to excessive sweating, difficulty breathing, and increased heart rate. However, after I tried it, I soon realized there was much more to it than just the discomfort. Running has become a habit and part of my routine, and I’m happy that I have gotten into this sport.
People have asked me why I run and how I do it. I think it’s because they want to start too. My journey began two years ago after my sibling suggested it as a way to stay fit. Running at first seemed unsustainable while I was in school, but I wanted to prove to myself and others that I was taking control of my health. So, I ran whenever I could, increasing the frequency from three days a week to almost every day before school or dinner. Looking back, I should have allocated more rest days, because back then the only times I didn’t run is when it is raining after I get vaccinated or I am down with the flu.
Running is not just about the run. It’s also about pacing, breathing, choosing the right outfit, finding the optimal temperature/humidity, planning your route and taking care of your body before each run. You need to learn from each run to make the next one better. Running alone is peaceful and I enjoy the sights around me. I take in the different buildings and objects moving past me while still focusing on my stride and pace. I like the runner’s high when I sprint during my runs. Going at that kind of speed using your legs is exhilarating. But it’s not as fun as running with someone. I try to use other runners as pacers, although most of the time our pace is vastly different. Despite that, I still like to observe how they run and learn a few things from them. Running with a consistent partner is still something I hope to find, so it’s just me, my shoes and the road for now.
It’s okay to have bad runs when you’re starting. Consistency is key, it gets easier the more you do it. If you have long intervals between runs, you’ll have to put in more work during each run. You have to build the momentum first, then work on the other aspects. Preparing for a run and executing it doesn’t take much time. For me, it is around 30 to 45 minutes. My warm-up consists of the exercises taught in PE lessons with a few tweaks to target more leg muscle groups. I’d like to spend more quality time on the cooldown, but my schedule afterwards usually doesn’t permit it.
I’m glad I found several routes to run on. While I’m not opposed to running on a track, it’s harder to plan a trip to the nearest stadium. I prefer a variety of terrains when running. I have routes that go uphill, long distances or just a quick 2.4 if I am pressed for time. If you master running off the track, you’ll have no problem running on it. Running on the treadmill is a whole other ballgame, although both are cardio exercises. I find running on the treadmill easier, but I don’t like the wobbly feeling after dismounting.
During the school holidays and after graduation, I had more time. I would stop by the fitness corner after my run to do some pull-ups and sit-ups. Now, I either run or go to the fitness corner, but rarely both. I saw online that the static workouts are more effective if done first, before the run, but I usually go for the run first due to the weather and because it is my primary goal.
I have diversified and tried other sports and exercises, although I am not actively following through with them. What I experienced was just a little taste of the real deal, but I am still very grateful for my friends who introduced me to them. I never thought I would try to deadlift, in a school gym, ever in my life, but alas I was convinced to give it a go. I also never thought I would want to try and pick up tennis, outside of school hours, but my friend was willing to teach me the ropes.
My journey with fitness is ongoing. I am still thinking about getting a gym membership. I have some colleagues who gym together after work, but it’s not conveniently located from where I live. Until I find a partner to run or gym with, I guess I’ll be keeping fit alone for a while longer.
