I’ve been thinking about running a lot lately. As the summer goes by, I have run less and less. Have you notice? I know I can still run 5 miles and probably 8, but any more than that? That’s questionable. I CAN run shorter distances faster. I can also tolerate the treadmill, but I used to average 20 miles a week – easy. These days, I am lucky to get in 10.
I have been taking an unofficial break from running since my last half marathon in March. For a few months I kept up my long runs, but I guess over time (and a new schedule) long runs have been phased out. Lots of spin workouts, strength training, and short runs on the treadmill have replaced my slower, outdoor run therapy sessions.
Does this mean I am still a runner?
I want to think yes. I mean, after all, my blog title is STILL Crazy RUNNING Legs. And I still love running more than ANY other form of exercise in the world. In my heart, I know I have another marathon in me – maybe more. Hopefully next year – if not in the not terribly distant future.
I can’t imagine NOT calling myself a runner. Despite getting addicted to running later than most, I can’t help think it’s become a part of my identity. A few months ago, at a dinner party, I was introduced as a “a marathoner!” which, for a minute, took me by surprise, but then I realized that a) yes, yes it’s true and b) wow – this is how (some) people see me! As someone who was relatively undefinable in my earlier years of life (I don’t think “chubby girl with frizzy hair and crazy legs” counts), it was kind of a moment for me.
But at the same time, as I drift further and further away from running, I can’t help but think I’m drifting further and further away from being that person. I don’t WANT to be that person who just ran one marathon and “gave up”, but to be honest I FEAR becoming that person.
What if the drive to race again never comes back? What if running “decides” it doesn’t want me back? When do I cross the line and become someone who is no longer a runner? There are a lot of what ifs, there are a lot of things I questions about myself, there are things that I worry about, that take up space in my head for no good reason. And I then, I read this (the font is really tiny, but it’s worth squinting for!)…
Source: runforthethrill.tumblr.com via Michelle on Pinterest
and I remember why I run and why running will FOREVER be important to me.
Yep, I’m still a runner.
You didn’t become that person and give up, you’re just taking a break until you have time for it in your life again. Nothing wrong with loving spin and strength training for awhile.
Although, I worry about not wanting to do another marathon too. We will make running take us back cuz we’ll do our next one together. 🙂 And we’ll train in cooler weather! Now hurry up with Plan A.
Agreed, I don’t think you gave up at all. Giving up is way different then taking time to pursue other interests. Love that Nike graphic, by the way. So true 🙂
“Giving up is way different then taking time to pursue other interests.” Love this! And I think that’s just how I am going to have to rationalize it (in my head). Thanks!
WE WILL make running take us back! I’m working on Plan A — it’s just unpredictable!
Of course you’re still a runner! You’re allowed to take breaks, have ruts and do other things. It’s about what’s enjoyable to you over the long-term, not necessarily every single day. I think we all feel the same way about running in the summer. It’s just harder!
I am SOOOO ready for this summer to be over. It was in the low 70s this morning though — I have a hope! As you can tell, I just really hate getting into this kind of rut. But, I know I should listen to my own advice… “This too shall pass.”
I really struggle with this…I have not run a single mile in nearly 9 months and it’s been the best thing ever for my mind (I really needed a break). I have done 3 1/2 marathons, a number of triathlons and other running events and yet, I wonder if I have been away too long to call myself a runner?
See, it’s hard! I say – yes! My lead at work is almost 69 and ran until her late 50s when her body couldn’t handle it anymore. Even though she’s not running NOW, in her heart she is a still a runner – and seriously one of the most inspirational people I know! Bottom line, I think it’s what your heart tells you. Do you think you will run again someday? Then yes, you are still a runner.
Sometimes you need a break. Marathons and other races take a lot out of you and sometimes you need more time to recover mentally than you do physically. It is also about finding a balance between running and the other things you love in life. Sometimes you can’t or don’t want to do it all at the same time.
I definitely agree that sometimes it just takes more time mentally! I still love it – but I don’t have the desire like I used to. I know it will return someday 🙂
I’ve been thinking this very thing, was actually going to write about it soon but you took the words right out of my mouth! I haven’t really ran more than a couple of miles since my last half in April, which feels weird because I’m still known as the runner among friends, give tons of running advice, even put together training plans for people. I’m signed up for a couple of races at the end of the year so I know I’ll have to get back to running at some point but right now I’m just not feeling it — will I get that love I once felt for running back?! I sure hope so!
I’m not running very much these days either, and the miles I do run are slow at that. And now I don’t know if I’d consider myself a runner anymore. There was so much that took me away from running and there will be even more distractions to come. I really hope I can get back into long runs because I truly miss them.
You will get back into running — I didn’t even START (seriously) until after I had Livie! And we can run together 🙂