Running Back to Basics

Yesterday I went on my first run of the year, and it was exhilarating. Running has become a huge part of my life, but was especially significant to me near the end of 2020 and the beginning of 2021. During peak quarantining, running was the only activity I did. After being cooped up in the house for 73 days straight, running felt like absolute freedom. I began to create bigger goals for myself which eventually led me to register for my first half marathon in January 2021. I registered for the Miami Half Marathon, but due to Covid it was being held virtually; meaning you ran on your own and recorded the miles through the Nike Training app. On January 29th, I ran 13.1 miles, nonstop, with a time of 02:23:40. It was an incredibly momentous occasion that I don’t think I’ve ever fully processed.

Before my run yesterday, I set my goal to run three miles. However, I reminded myself to go easy as I tend to come back from my running breaks with high expectations. But yesterday’s mood felt different. I felt the rush of the New Year and resolutions, so I was motivated to run three miles nonstop. And with all the energy I had, I did not complete my goal. The moment right before I stopped to walk, I was slightly annoyed with myself. I bargained and said, “you don’t even have to jog, just bounce while speed walking.” Whatever that meant. As I slowed to a walk, I reminded myself that in order for me to get back to where I once was, I’d have to start from the beginning. Working out after a break is the most humbling experience. It truly does not matter what you were once capable of doing. All that matters is what you’re able to do now.

After I walked about half a mile, I started my stride up again. I was rested and ready to finish my run and I did. I was incredibly proud of myself to have found the energy to run in 2022.