Why Do I Run?

Runners are often questioned about their sanity as it pertains to their chosen sport. Frequently they report that their friends think they?re ?crazy? for wanting to run a half marathon, or ?nuts? to travel to the farthest reaches of the world, pay good money, and lots of it for the pleasure of running in all kinds of weather just to receive a medal. In fact if I had a dollar for every time I was called ?crazy? when describing my next run, I would retire some place warm and spend my days - running!
A few years ago a friend of mine shared this poem with me titled Why Do I Run?
Why do I run? Tain?t no mystery--wanna have a good medical history,
Doctor told me runnin? is great--helps them blood cells circulate,
Great for the lungs, great for the ticker, can?t nothing? gethca? in better shape quicker,
Feels so healthy, feels so sweet, pumpin? my arms and flappin? my feet,
Moldin? my muscles, firmin? my form, pantin? like a pack mule, sweatin? up a storm,
Keeps me youthful, keeps me loose, tightens my tummy and shrinks my caboose,
Beats bein? sluggish, beats bein? lazy-- Why do I run? Maybe I?m CRAZY!
Personally I think it?s crazy to not want to run or walk, or bike or swim, or whatever mode of exercise keeps your muscles moving and your heart pumping. Aside from the highly recognized health benefits of exercise like improved cardiovascular functioning, muscle tone, increased fat burning and lowered blood pressure to name but a few, it also improves your mood, reduces stress and increases oxygen to the brain. Exercise also builds confidence and character which builds a stronger self-image, and provides a sense of empowerment and freedom by knowing that you are strong and capable. You know if this all came in a pill everyone would want it.
Running is certainly not for everyone but exercise is, so don?t hesitate to get out there and find that activity that makes you want to get up in the morning and repeat it every day because of all the positives it brings to your life. If you think running may be for you, seek out a running friend or find a Learn to Run group. The social aspect of a group can be highly motivating, contributing to your success and helping you find some new friends in the process.
Start your journey to the ?crazy? side by attending the Resolution Run 5k on January 1st at Tri & Run Sports. The first 75 people registered receive an Asics winter running headband, some health and fitness and the company of some great, like-minded runners.

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On December 6 David Boyko completed the Las Vegas Rock n Roll Marathon in 3:48:28 while Lisa Jones completed the Half marathon in 3:44:55. Thank you to all the runners who attended the Egg Nog Jog 5k/10k on Dec 5. Over $800 was raised in support of the Quinte West ?Coats for Kids? Fund.