Today I'm joining Miss Zippy and friends in taking a look back at my year of running. It wasn't the year I was hoping for back when we got started and a lot of things changed, but I still had a great time and learned so much. I'm grateful for the experiences I had and the people that I shared them with.
Best race experience: It might be an odd choice, but finishing the BAA Half Marathon with my slowest half marathon time was actually the best race experience. I was on the sidelines with an injury and only ran the race to get the Distance Medley Medal. Going into the race knowing that it would be hard and slow allowed me to let go of the pressure of a great finish, but still have a GREAT FINISH.
Best run: Anytime I run somewhere new is a great run. While home in Cincinnati for a visit over the summer, I discovered an awesome bike trail that caters to runners, walkers, skaters, and obviously bikers. Stopping at a running store or grabbing a bite to eat right on the trail is just...the best idea ever.
Best new piece of gear: It's really hard to pick just one thing, but right now I am so grateful for my Athleta Polartec Tights. They will make cold winter runs (25 degrees or less) so much easier because my legs will be nice and toasty.
Best piece of running advice you received: If you want to be a better runner, cross train. As I work my way back from injury, I am learning the truth behind this advice. I have spent the better part of 4 months completely committed and my runs have been better and faster than I could hope.
Most inspirational runner: Hands down, this is RUNEMZ. Not only can she RUN, but she RUNS 100 miles in 24 hours or less 3x on a treadmill for the benefit of underprivileged children and battered women. A-MAZ-ING! She recently did a guest post on tips for beating treadmill boredom. I think she knows what she's talking about!
If you could sum up your whole year in a couple of words, what would they be?
How was your year of running?
I had a great first half and now nursing an injury. It's all good though! Thanks for the feedback on the athleta tight. I was definitely considering adding them to my collection. Athleta fan girl right here! and AGREE about RUNEMZ. She is amazing!
ReplyDeleteSounds like you have a good perspective on your year. Sometimes it's not about how fast we finish a race but the race it's self. Thanks for a great post.
ReplyDeleteSami
RUNEMZ, so inspiring indeed!
ReplyDeleteLove this "Anytime I run somewhere new is a great run." Absolutely :)
I need to do more cross training. I love to run but I need to make time for other workouts as well. I completely agree, RUNEMZ is so inspiring!
ReplyDeleteI so agree with you about RUNEMZ - truly inspiring! I just know all of your hard work cross-training is going to pay off in 2014!
ReplyDeleteMy year in running was AMAZING! I started running faster with my sprint drills. Hate them but they WORK!!! I ran a few races this year to my OWN surprise! I ran for Prostate Cancer, entered a 1 mile fun walk/run at my daughter's new school, and Running Through the Grapevine for WINE tastings at the end. It was GOOD and I shocked myself. Got motivated to register for a half marathon in April 2014! It is dedicated to my daughter since it is on her birthday. I am super excited and NERVOUS at the same time.
ReplyDeleteI broke barriers and broke down walls and I plan for it to continue in 2014. Great post and love the back bend. Reminds me when I used to do gymnastics as a kid.
If I could sum it up in a few words I think they would be "not what I planned, but surprisingly grateful". I started the first half of the year training for a marathon got sidelined and couldn't complete it and at the end of May I got pregnant! So not exactly the best year for my running, but it has been an amazing year--showing me what I'm capable of and filled with many blessings. :)
ReplyDeleteAww, congratulations! If you're going to be sidelined, that's a good reason!
ReplyDeleteAwesome year! I love hearing the excitement you have for running. Good luck training for you first half. You will love it ;)
ReplyDeleteI hope so Michelle!
ReplyDeleteThat's how I used to be, but getting sidelined briefly from running really jump-started my cross training routine. Now I look for something to do once a week!
ReplyDeleteI need to come run with you, that would be FUn!! :)
ReplyDeleteThanks Sami. Time and healing has helped.
ReplyDeleteTake care of yourself - nothing worse than being sidelined longer because of pushing too soon. Get the TIGHTS!!
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad that in spite of injury, you can look back on this year in a positive light. And the best part--that you are working your way back to 100%! As to gear--those tights sound pretty darn good; may have to check them out!
ReplyDeleteRoller coaster ride for sure! Let's make 2014 our best year ever.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely a roller coaster, but at least there were some real positives! Here's to a 2014 with more ups than downs.
ReplyDeleteThe year was a roller coaster for many! My year was more like a water fall. Going along fine and then bam a huge drop! I'm trying to look back in a positive light but it's not easy. Despite everything I'm very grateful and moving on :)
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