Back in the day I used to lead a Run Club. I had an absolute blast with it too! I loved inspiring new runners and seeing them progress. I loved motivating fellow runners to hit that PR or push a little harder at the track. We were a great support system for each other, though I never really “trained” for anything myself. In fact, I had no desire too. I hopped around pacing others and I was done after that. No time to do extra training for me, no need to either! I ran a plenty of races with this group. A few 10ks, half marathons, and bits of pieces of several marathons. I had done 2 marathons myself my whole life, and none for time! This is how I remember ENJOYING running.
Well, the push came to shove in 2010. I felt the itch, the itch to really race. And I hired a pretty good coach (aka the hubs). He trained me for 2-3 events. A couple of halfs and a 10 miler. I think my fastest times were 1:40 half marathon and a 78 min 10 miler. Not too too fast but speedy, I’d say.
Do you know what I remember most about those training months/year? Not the hard runs, the aches, the speed work. It was the numbers. The number miles I had to put in each week, the pace I had to work toward, the hours of sleep I needed before I a long run, etc. The training was not what got to me, it was getting caught up in the NUMBERS. And for someone who is not that competitive, it just wasn’t me. Even though I so desperately wanted it to be. That was my husbands job. He lived and thrived off numbers, not me.
I got burnt out quickly, got injured training for another marathon, and my health just to went downhill due to stress and other stomach issues.
It was right about then we both decided we needed a break and we jetted off to New Zealand for 4 months. He was able to focus on training in his home town of Christchurch. I tried to take it easy and get my body back to normal. Little did I know it had to get worse before it got better. But I am okay with that. I took 8 months off from any real training or working out. I walked and did yoga, and that was good for me.
Fast forward to now, I’m a good 20lbs heavier and healthier. I recently started running again. Not for time, not for mileage, not for a pace. The only gadget I wear is a watch.
I run to get outdoors, to be with the family, to chat with a friend, to just run.
I run because I am able, I run because I am thankful, I run because it’s a true GIFT. No numbers needed.
In a few weeks I will run my first race since that one back in 2010. The turkey trot. I am excited to not race this race. I’m excited to see everyone out there being thankful for the ability to run, to eat good food, and to be with each other.
In April 2013 I will run (not race) the ZOOMA Half Marathon out in the Hill Country. A few months ago I was asked to apply to be an Ambassador, you better bet your britches I did just that! It wasn’t for the opportunity to race, it was about being able to support others in their training, to meet new people, and to share the gift of running.
There are competitive runners already out there. We need them as well. We need their stories, their inspiration, their tips. But we also need those who are just there. Who won’t worry about the run, only the outcome. That’s me. I’m okay with it. In fact, I prefer it. The “Unracy” Racer.
What type of runner are you? Do you train by numbers?
Cheers,
LC
P.S.
For those of you wanting to race the ZOOMA half in April, please feel free to use my discount code Lindsay TXAMB1 for an extra 10% off your race entry fee.
Also, Michele at NYC Running MAMA is hosting a virtual 5k/10k in order to raise money for the Sandy Hurricane relief. You must check out all the amazing prizes you could win if you participate, donate, etc. Healthy Bites is honored to be part of that cause. Check it out!
Such a great post!! I love the “run” not “race” mentality/distinction and also throwing away the numbers. I love the running because you’re able and thankful. That’s the mindset I try and approach all of my workouts with, whether it’s running or something else. To me, it makes it much more enjoyable and nourishing to my body, mind, heart, and soul. 🙂
yes yes, so true. Be thankful for movement, strength, and more!
Thanks for sharing! I can get caught up in numbers too….like you I try to make my main goal fun:)
i think that’s the perfect goal Heather! Cheers!
yess!!!! this is exactly what i try to explain to people. I love running, but when I start really training to “race” it can take the fun out of it. I’m trying to strike that balance of enjoying and still progressing
oh how i knew you could relate amanda! another reason why i adore you. Such a great passion!
Michelle and I are not competitive runners, after running a few half and 2 full marathons we never really did it for time. we just ran because we enjoyed it and did it as a sisterly bonding time 😉
so glad to hear that you are getting stronger and healthier!!! your such an inspiring and amazing person!!! love you!
Well I think I’ve talked to you about this just did my 1st 5K & I loved it! After losing 71+ lbs and still having to lose more I’m running because…. I FINALLY CAN LOL!! The last time I remember really running was when I was a teenager and even then I was slowly gaining more and more weight. I’m so much happier now that I’ve got these great goals, friends & family. Gotta love it… oh & thank you too for your Healthy Bites and being ever so inspiring 😀
Sounds like you’re going into this ambassadorship with the PERFECT mindset for you! I’m no longer a numbers girl when I run (which is pretty rare right now…maybe once a week) because I know they suck me in!
This is such an awesome post!! I love that you’re a no numbers runner and I really admire that. It is SO easy to get caught up in numbers, when in the end, they don’t mean much (at least to certain people!). I’m so excited to hear about your (not) races!
I can’t lie, I’m a numbers girl! In running, in work and with life in general. With that being said, I love running just to run. I always run at least once a week without a watch and to just enjoy the time (or to sing toddler tunes to my kids for 6 miles:)
Have fun Turkey Trotting!
love it! i bet your kiddos love it too!
I used to be a numbers runner! I would push and push. I ended up hating it. Now that I can run again, I love the movement. I don’t run with my garmin anymore so I can’t think pace or numbers. I just run to run! It is freeing!!
amen! hope we get to run together one day!
Not a runner, not into numbers or times even in the pool…but I LOVED this post. I love learning about you but also seeing you finding your true running mojo and the best part? Getting out there again finally!! whoot. whoot!
love my no numbers missy!
i like numbers… but only sometimes 🙂 gotta enjoy it!
Thanks for posting this! I used to be a no-numbers runner (except I’d love to see how far or how long I could go). Then I got into doing races, and racing myself on EVERY run. I need to stop that. Now.
I’ve been trying to focus on going out to run for the enjoyment of running. Lately it’s been working, but I need some new running shoes (see tomorrow’s post). 🙂
I get a little scared by the numbers, honestly. I’m not a competitive person, but I really wish I was sometimes. I think I tend to get a little more frustrated than competitive, since I am not a natural athlete and it takes a lot of work for me to even run a 9 minute mile 🙂 I’m going to train for my half next April, but I am aiming to run the whole thing, not to beat a set time
Love this! You know what keeps you motivated and going strong, and that is so different for everyone – runners, cyclists, yogis, etc. Numbers don’t always resonate with me either, nor do strict training plans without wiggle room (which I need a Lot of 😉 ).
Also love seeing you as an Ambassador – perfect role for you, as a positive smiling face for all of the runners to look to!
I’m a long time reader, first time commenter 😉 Thank you for this! I always thought I was alone in the “anti-competition” pool. So glad there’s others out there 🙂
I don’t train by numbers, although I feel like I should sometimes. Like you though, I run for “me” time and just want to enjoy it and not get burnt out. We really need to run together some day. Hugs!!!
AMEN! I have had so many up’s and down’s over the years, pushing myself to my breaking point trying to achieve a number and I’m finally over that and would love to start running for ME! Bring it on 2013, I wanna run!
Totally love this post Lindsay. You know why? Because your beautiful soul shines through. I love that you run to support other people and share the gift of running.
I’m not competitive except with myself and yes, do tend to get a wee bit obsessed with numbers. But I’m thinking and kind of hoping that my perspective has changed now as I return to running after injury. Time will tell but I want to run and just enjoy it. It’s funny. For someone who didn’t race a lot before (mainly to get my auto entry for NYCM), I’m not itching to do a race!!
oh I totally get that! and I have a feeling that you will balance out your running. Numbers and no numbers. But either way, your purpose has totally changed, yes?
I LOVE this post. Numbers in training and calorie counting send me crazy. The best fun is doing what you enjoy with the people you love. I think that’s why my most enjoyable exercise is walking with the hubs or hula hooping or dancing with some great music on! 🙂
I remember when I used to be a no-numbers runner — the first few years after I graduated college and first started running, I’d just go out and run for 45-60 minutes everyday… I never knew how fast I ran or how far I ran, I just ran. As much as I love training for races, what I really LOVE is just the running itself! All of that to say, I can relate to you here. 🙂
I’m so excited for you to do the turkey trot — so fun! And definitely legitimizes all the good Thanksgiving eats.
i think you must do both to find out what type of runner you are, ya know?
I like the feeling of accomplishment when i finish a race, which is probably why i only run marsthons. the only numbers I really car about are the ones between qualifying and not qualifying for Boston. Glad you are healthy and running again! (And enjoying it)
and i believe you have a passion for those numbers laura! they are significant to you! Go get em!
I can totally relate, I don’t compete or race cause I get too anxious and it actually ends up throwing my performance. I do better when I’m just in it for the enjoyment.
I am definitely an “unracy” racer! I love running half-marathons but I’m not overly concerned with my time. As a slower runner, I found I only started to enjoy it when I took that pressure off myself and stopped thinking I wasn’t good enough because I’m not as fast as other runners.
pressure free is the way to be! for us at least, right?
I think numbers are great to measure progress but they can hinder your mental game like no other. They can also tend to take the fun, wind in your hair, get out there and enjoy nature out of running. Some of my strongest runs have been when I just went out there, listened to my body and left the Garmin at home. Love your outlook and Love Austin. I am certain that race/run will be an amazing experience!
I love hearing about people running just to run. It seems that’s what I’ve been hearing most lately. I must admit that I’ve become a numbers runner since I’m starting the journey of one day (hopefully) qualifying for Boston. But I’ve found myself craving non-numbers runs lately. Those runs out on trails with friends where I’m running slowly enough that I can actually take in the view! After my December marathon, and before training for my spring marathon, I’m taking a month to be a no numbers runner 🙂 That’s fantastic that you are getting out there and helping others achieve their goals!
Good for you girl! It’s hard sometimes to not get caught up in the numbers when running, but when things like that get in the way of the sole purpose, it’s just not worth it! At least for us non-competitive peeps. 🙂 Someday if/when I am able to run again, I will focus less on the numbers and more on being thankful for God giving me feet and legs strong enough to do it!
i have full confidence you will!
thanks love!
Good for you!! Running for the love of it is what it’s all about!
Love this! Numbers are a tricky thing. I think it’s fun to set a new PR and try to challenge yourself to beat the last time, but sometimes people just get too tangled up in it. Proud of you for taking time off! You’re amazing!
Great story and I love your outlook! 🙂
I’m not really a runner, but I’m a triathlete and I started to get hung up on numbers, and worried about the whole thing and comparing. Then finally I just said {like you} I do it because it’s FUN, because I CAN and because it makes me feel GOOD. So while I might try to beat my time by a minute or two I don’t let it rule the race. Thanks for the reminder of WHY. 😉
Thank you for this post! Sometimes I feel like less of a “runner” because I don’t have a lot of race numbers. I have run a few 5Ks, 5 mile Turkey Trots, and one half marathon…but I don’t like having the cloud of “training” hanging over me. I run because I like to run, and feeling like I HAVE to run takes away a lot of the joy for me. I’m doing our 5 mile Thanksgiving race again this year, but I’m still on the fence about doing another half in the spring. If I do, it may be the Zooma…I’d love to run a beautiful course like that!
I love this post…but I also <3 the numbers, not gonna lie. They're what really keep me motivated to keep going, to watch them improve. I do run some runs without a watch, though, to keep some sanity there 🙂
I am SO not competitive…. anti competitive….. numbers don’t do it for me 🙂
that’s why i love you LOU!
Awwww xx
Hey, guess what? I’m drinking a Kombucha right now 🙂
oh yea!!!! booch is back!
I’ve been on both sides of it, too… the first 5-7 years I ran was just for fun. I liked pushing myself in the actual race itself (maybe one or two every year) but didn’t put much thought into my training, had no watch, did no speed work, etc.
Since my daughter was born, I’ve been hooked on the racing with numbers side! I think it’s partly because it’s one of my few outlets, since I’m no longer working, and it’s fun to challenge myself. But I also see myself getting back to the none-racing stage at some point as well.
I’m somewhere in the middle right now. All racing all the time definitely stresses me out!
I’m a numbers girl, which is part of the reason that I HATE running. When I used to run a lot, I got far too caught up in those numbers – the pace, the time, the miles, the…everything! Now, when I run (which is SUPER rare!) I don’t even bring a watch. I just run until I don’t want to anymore.
The other part is that running hurts.
I can relate to this too! I used to run to run before racing…I can say I have taken a break from the numbers too and look forward to fun runs…especially an Ugly Sweater 5k in Dec with girlfriends!
So thankful you are healthy again and getting stronger!
And, yes, you are fast!
Stop reading my mind woman! HA! The more I learn about you the more we are weirdly really alike. I don’t race I run too and I’m 100% happy and in love with that statement. I wear my watch and my headphones and that’s it. I do it because I love it, it’s me time, and it feels good to just be out there. Happy Hump Day! xoxo
There is truly no amount of numbers that can compare with the joy of just putting one foot in front of the other – and running with a thankful heart, because you CAN run. I love this post. Thanks for the reminder! 🙂
I SO desperately want to stop living my life by the numbers..but it’s hard! I applaud you SO MUCH for knowing that it was time to take a step back and stop competing. You are so strong.
This is awesome Linds. I love your new mentality! Numbers have a way of doing that, don’t they? Consuming us and such… Not a fan!
Love this! Rare is the person who can let go of the numbers and just enjoy it for what it is. Good for you!
I am somewhere in the middle. I think about numbers quite a bit for racing, but I also make sure that every week contains runs that aren’t dictated by the clock or mile markers. Someday I’ll make it to where you are!
and that’s why i admire you so much! you have found your groove! you run so well with a little of both and you continue to inspire us!
I’m a no-running type of runner ;D I like tracking my numbers in the weights room, but sometimes I’ll just burn out on that and NOT keep track for a week–and it feels good to take that break! I love your attitude toward running, you make it a hobby/something you enjoy rather than a challenge. Nothing wrong with that, and nothing wrong with being competitive about it either, it’s all about finding what works for you!
That’s exciting that you are going to be running in some race events. I used to just run for the sake of running without doing any races, but in the past year I’ve been bitten by the marathon bug and have done more races than ever before! I am a numbers person, but I can get too caught up in the numbers sometimes and then a bit of the joy of running goes away, so I have to be careful to have a balance. I remind myself I’ll never be super fast, so why stress it, who cares?!
Ummm, ya. I’m a total numbers runner. I feel like I haven’t reached my peak (read fastest) yet, so I am determined to get there. The numbers keep me going, mostly because I am a goal oriented type of runner. Distance, time, total miles, pace per mile. It’s what I use to keep myself motivated.
That and dreaming of having rock hard Cotter legs!
thats why i dig you! We need that balance out there. You inspire so many! and my legs inspire you. ha, jk.. maybe
Love this so much! We’re excited to have you!
oh this is such a fabulous post!one i can relate to on many levels. i mostly run for fun-not caring about time or pace just the act of running. i know a run is long enough when all the garbage i carry with me is released and i feel cleansed. sometimes i race races though and i love that feeling as well though i HAVE to want to do it and be in the mood. running to me is happiness, cleansing, me time and worrying about pace etc defeats the purpose! yay for your race on tday 🙂
I really like this post. I love running because of how it makes me feel. The miles ticking by was goal enough for me when I started. In addition to learning more about the running world, I feel like even blogging/instagram/twitter has made me more aware of the ‘numbers’. I’m naturally competetive (even worse within myself) I’m not the fastest runner or will I ever be, I still tend to get caught up in them. In a post earlier this week I mentioned that this weekend I’m running the WHM, coming off an injury. I’m having a huge mental war with myself – all bc I know I will push myself for a number/time that doesn’t leave me in the dumps at the finish line even though my real intent should be to just finish without causing re-injury. p.s I’m NOT wearing the Garmin!
These numbers are evil I say!
I love this post because I just wrote about getting back to basics when it comes to running. This is great! Not everyone thrives off of training and racing. Running just to run is a beautiful thing! Running is such a great gift. I am ready to get back to just ENJOYING it for what it is.
I’m a numbers girl for sure – love all the data and the ability to (over)analyze everything. BUT, I’m also not the fastest runner and I compete against myself (for the most part).
By the way, I miss leading run club too – such a social event!
Oh how I LOVE this post friend!! I was smiling reading the whole thing. two reasons: loved reading your run-history, as I hadn’t known it too much before and 2, because you and I definitely share the same run-brain!! no numbers, no time, no nada. just run. I am so excited for you, however, in un-racing these two races, so so exciting!! XOXO
I just recently started running (I guess you could categorize me as more of a jogger since i’m pretty slow, lol) but right now the only numbers I am focused on are the immediate ones, such as “okay, just .5 more to make that mile and them you can slow down your speed…okay just 5 more minutes, okay 1 more mile to make that a 10k…” But if I looked at my splits i’d be demotivated, so for now I am proud of myself for the little victories, because those are the ones that really “add” up! 🙂
Fabulous- I love this post. I have a tendency to get too caught up in numbers sometimes and have to remind myself to just ENJOY. So jealous of your time in New Zealand.
You nailed it! I don’t know what it is about NUMBERS, but I get caught up in them, much to my detriment. Now I still wwear my Garmin, but I love to look at the maps of my runs on my favorite trails. That’s it. I’ve gotten away from pace and miles and more enjoying that I can even run! But, it’s taken me so long to learn that lesson. Thanks for sharing your journey 🙂
Love this post, love you! I am so proud of you for coming so far in your recovery and getting back to enjoying running. Running should be peaceful, enjoyable, and fun and it sounds like that is where you are at with it. Yay for a turkey trot!
Funny I just hit on the same point on my post yesterday… and you know I am going to talk to you about a book right? and maybe you read it already: Born to Run, loved it! and I think you would enjoy it too 😉
i never read it! oh man, i must be missing out!
Lindsay–like you, I have made the shift from racing to running. And like you, it was the culmination of a few different factors that left me injured and depressed . . . and it got worse before it got better. But over the past year and a half I have put on weight and worked on healing myself. It’s a work in progress, but I am significantly better than I was a few years back. The mental adjustment to staying away from the numbers can still be challenging (miles, time, calories, heart rate), but at the end of the day, I just really like ACTIVELY LIVING, and I don’t ever want to give that up!
A HUGE amen times a thousand! It’s tough not to think about the numbers when your husband is a competitive athlete, I learned that the hard way when I started running a few years ago. I completely burnt out and almost gave up on it altogether. There is no way I will ever run like my husband does!
Until I learned what you have. I run because I am healthy, because I enjoy the movement. I run for those who can’t. It truly is a gift, and one that I will not forfeit.
There’s a short race in December, in a gorgeous small town in the mountains close to Calgary. I have never entered a race, but I’m considering it because it’s only 2 miles I think? I just fear the cold temperature, and yes, I fear the ‘race’. But maybe that fear is a good thing 🙂 I’m excited for you!!
This post was just awesome! For so many reasons, but the main one for me is that is OKAY to run for the pure joy of it. Running is a gift and that can be enough. Not PR’s or xx:xx minute miles.
I go back and forth. Right now I am running when I so desire. It’s not about numbers at all. It is just about the love I have for it.
Other times I embrace training for a specific goal. I focus in a bit more on mileage and times and strive for certain numbers. I like to push myself to see how far I can go.
I kind find joy in both ways of training, but I always remind myself that my significance does not lie in the numbers, but in the heart. As long as I am giving my all and enjoying it, then at the end of the day I feel successful.
christchurch is beautiful! i was there for 10 days before i went to the north island! i am very envious that you got to spend 4 months there 🙂 i am not really a numbers runner either. i was in 2008 when i trained for a HM but after post race injury, i just decided that long distances were not for me! i run for minutes now or until i feel like i’m tired and then i quit 🙂 i usually flux between a 745min mile up to a 930min mile depending on how i want to ‘cruise’ i like the freedom in just running!
I liked your post a lot. Running in Houston, Texas, whenever it starts getting really hot I have to take a step back and ditch the watch since I have to adapt to the heat and it’s tough on my body for a while. Sometimes when I start feeling fast it’s really fun to pick up the watch again. But, I’m glad you’ve found a way to keep running and do it in a way that works for you! Not every runner is the same.
I signed up for the Zooma Half…. it’s my fist half and I’m getting married a month after, so hopefully it helps to keep me in shape and take time for myself. I’m trying to resist the urge to have a time goal and just be happy about a finish, but it’s tough.. I also have a competitive streak that is hard to keep in check sometimes.
Yep, when it’s not fun it’s just stress! That’s not to say working out isn’t hard, it just has to be more good than hard:-) Glad you’re taking care of you!
Oh, and after 3 weeks of no working out(doctor’s orders) I can guarantee you that you will not die 😉 Seriously, I thought it might kill me!!
Nicole
I love this post! I’m finding myself in the similar place as you, I signed up for the Turkey Trot with the sole purpose of running it with my sister. It’s her first race, so I’m going to stay with her and take however many walking breaks necessary, but I think this is how running should be. Something fun and social, with no expectations 🙂
I feel the same way. I started running and I got super excited, so I signed up for a half marathon. Then, it became about the numbers. I popped a tendon in my foot during the last mile of the race and it left me out of the game for 3 months. Then, I was caught up in a moment and signed up for another. After not doing as well in the second one, I was dissappointed. Yup, sad that although I completed an amazing thing for a former couch-potato, the numbers weren’t what I had hoped they would be. So, when it came to running a 10 miler…I thought and thought and the love was no longer there. I withdrew from the race and felt enormous relief that I could go back to just running for the enjoyment again.
Love you girl! Loved this post!
Love this per usual Lindsay! Ick, numbers and me don’t do well together! Whether it be in the form of calorie counting, minutes exercising, miles run/walk, I get way too competitive with myself and that’s not healthy all the time. I find I get into an obsessive mindset. Running for fun and passion is the way to go! You totally deserve to be a ZOOMA ambassador!
amen amen! love that you said that because its true, for me. I prefer not to compete with myself.
Isn’t it crazy how your perspective changes when you’re forced to slow down? 🙂 I’ll be rooting for you from Dallas as you unrace!
I’m not a fan of numbers in any context – heck, I was never even big on math in school. I’m the kind of runner that walks 😉 and any time numbers try to sneak in, I find myself starting to enjoy it a lot less. I’m glad that you’re rediscovering your passion without those pesky digits getting in the way.
Ahhhh, love! I had this same conversation with someone a few weeks ago during a trail run – I’m sooooo not into PRing, and paces, and I’m just not competitive – give me some good company, some pretty scenery, and I’m happy.
Have tons of fun at the Turkey Trot 😀
numbers are silly! no need for them in life. well besides like taxes and stuff but who really needs those anyways right! a life without numbers is so much better 🙂 so is running for fuuuuuuuuuuun!
I’m a huge numbers person, but it’s more because I have a scientific mind and I love all numbers. I do, however, LOVE to not race a race and just enjoy the community and whoever I’m running with. I’m also doing a thanksgiving turkey trot with my dad, uncle and 2 cousins. I loved doing it last year because it’s so great to spend that time with my dad!
Definitely not for numbers. I hardly ever run with a watch (actually, I don’t even own one lol). I like running for its simplicity. I just like going…and going…and not knowing anything else but how I feel in that moment.
so refreshing to read this…back in the day i logged so many miles and would beat myself up big time for not hitting weekly mileage goals, or if i just had a bad running day. and i’ve paid the price – i can’t run that long any more because i beat my body up too badly to do so.
but now? I feel that God is physically redeeming me big time and i’m so thankful that i can run even a little bit – just a few miles at a time, 1-2 times a week. it’s not what it used to be, but it makes me happy and i feel great!
Thank you for this amazing post. I really needed to read it. I am only competitive against that voice in my head that tells me I can’t. However, those numbers can be miserable. For my first marathon I did get caught in them because I had a goal and did not reach it. I forgot while out there why I run. I run because it brings me happiness. Because I love it!! So now for marathon training #2 I do not glance at my watch every five seconds. I do look at it at the end. I cheer myself on for doing a good job and being out there.
I’m very happy you are back to health and running without numbers.. Your awesome 🙂
The best way to run! Naked. What a beautiful post Linds!
Terribly behind blend here.
You know, I’ve been thinking more about running recently and how I’d gotten so caught up in numbers. Every run required numbers…and until I’m training for another half, I’d recently decided to nix the numbers and go without. Just go. Breathe in the life around me. This post says it perfectly.
You’re such a happy soul, Linds. I love that about you.
You know that I run, but I am like you – I have coached a lot of people to their first 5K, 10K or half marathons, etc. But I am not fast. I enjoy the thrill of watching newbie runners get out there and test their limits. I love the ability to be told that I make a difference in helping them run. Even the ones who end up lapping me haha 🙂
Wish I could come run that half with you! One day we will have to meet up for a fun run, some HealthyBites and wine!
xx – M
I love this post! I couldn’t agree more with throwing out the numbers and running to run. It’s about finding the balance and tracking numbers but not getting overwhelmed with them for me.
I’m SO glad you are feeling better and a ZOOMA ambassador!! If the half marathon wasn’t in April (because i have worlds then) I would have definitely considered a trip to Texas!
oh please do!! I would love it! Although, worlds is way more important. hehe
I am the opposite in many ways. I have always been what I call “the zen runner”, neverr paying attention to the numbers. I ran because I love running. Now that I am training for a half marathon, I find it hard to break out of the zen runner mode and focus on the numbers I need to achieve to stay of top of my training plan. What I do love about your post is that no matter who you are, a break always seems like a good idea to reenergize us and get us in the right path.
Loved this! I just started “racing” in September and I’m hooked, especially after Saturday’s 10k. And while to a certain extent it’s about the numbers, it’s really about the self-improvement for me. Watching my times get faster, my distances get further, and MY LUNGS get STRONGER. I never could have run 6 miles a couple years ago and the fact that I’m now there, just shows how amazing my body is and I want to keep pushing it and making it stronger.
thats an awesome place to be friend
oh linds, love this post and am so happy that you are healthy and ready to run again 🙂
I’m even worse of a no numbers runner…sometimes I don’t even have a watch. I think I nearly killed a couple of a pro triathletes when we went for a run in T and I didn’t even have a watch on. hehe needless to say I no longer run without a watch, but I don’t even own anything fancier than that!
why i love you even more.
Loved reading this, Lindsey! I am the same type of runner. I run for the fun and the friendships, and for the many other benefits of running, but so far, I haven’t even figured out how to race.;) I am happy with it that way! Looking forward to getting to know you better through ZOOMA.
uggghhh numbers.
I’m slowly getting rid of silly numbers 🙂
Glad you are back to running and enjoying it!
Love!
I can get caught up in number pretty easily and it becomes super competitive. But I really do try to make my focus more about enjoying the run. Enjoying being outside, alone or with Jason or my running partner. Just enjoying the freedom. I tried to train for speed with my last half, but didn’t let myself get crazy caught up in a strict schedule, strict pace for each run all that sort of thing like I have in the past. It didn’t feel like I was training for a race and that was wonderful. BUT I do have to say that maybe it’s not a bad thing…training with numbers in mind. Everyone is different right? There’s no right or wrong way (unless you’re overtraining).
it’s whats best for you. You are a numbers girl. You do well off that! I admire you for it friend.
xxoo
Holy crap you were skinny! You always look lovely, but you look absolutely incredible today.
I did something similar with running. I was reasonably fast but got injured when I stared getting past the Half distances. And i was too skinny (my trainer said I literally ran my ass off). In the past week I’ve been jogging again. I’m much, much slower but on these pleasent fall afternoons I don’t care. I’m loving the me time and taking in the scenery.
ha, that was me. No ass. And i looked like a bobble head. My stomach was not holding anything either. OYE!
ANd i want to jog with you. Someday!
Running versus racing, well put! First, I am incredibly proud of you for sharing your story, your journey, and more. Second, I am sure this was a major decision and I am so proud of you for welcoming the challenge.
Cannot wait to sherpa you along!!!
can’t wait to cheer you on!! i’ll be your sherpa.
that would be an honor!
I’m not much of a runner but when I run, I like to “run free”. I feel like numbers discourage me and I’ve found that when I don’t keep track of my runs, I’ve actually run the fastest. I’ve been shocked at a few races because of this. But I’m also a believer that you do what works for you. And I love that you’re taking a break from racing to focus on just the run, it’s an amazing feeling being on the road not bogged down by numbers 🙂
yay! this is awesome! glad you picked up running again! You are going to enjoy that turkey trot I just know it! (: I love that you are just focusing on pace!
Gosh I so love this post! It’s not about the numbers!!!! For me, running is about focusing on me. I still feel new to running and I’m so in love with it. I don’t race myself or others every time I lace up my shoes. It’s about enjoying some time to myself, to think, to refocus…to just be me. I’m thinking about running a half. The thing that holds me back is that I don’t want it to be about the “race”, I want to enjoy it the whole time. I’m working my milage up slowly and really focusing on how I fuel myself mentally and physically through this. Love this post Lindsay…LOVE it!
i’m so excited for you! I know you will do well. You know what you can handle and your joy of running proves it are strong!
Ok- this post spoke to my soul!
I love, love, love to run but don’t enjoy racing (rarely do it) and don’t specifically train (no tempos, speed, or hill work on my schedules).
I’ve finally started to get better at doing races, but for me, not to beat xx time.
P.S. you’d be an amazing, inspiring coach! Happy running!
Wait, did you write this post or was it me? I swear this is me. This is why I run. So often we I get caught up with the those that “race” and I lose sight of it all and I need to reassess…which is what I’m currently doing. Love you! xo
i think we wrote it for each other, yes?
THIS IS AWESOME! Life’s too short to be defined by numbers. I love your views about just running to be with friends, nature, God, and family 🙂 That sounds pretty dang amazing to me!
yes, and its a great time to pray. Ya know?
Well I’m no runner but there are no no numbers here either.
no numbers needed for miz FABULOUS!