Runners are generally creatures of habit. We have our standard loop, our daily schedule, and we stick to it more or less. Though they always sounds nice in theory, runners know that exploratory runs in new directions or in different cities are fundamentally disruptive to the training schedule. We prefer to know every inch of our path; it makes getting around it easier mentally. Our hardest workouts are done on the most uniform surface possible -- a 400m oval, which in its simplicity and uniform nature is a striking metaphor for the habitual nature of the runner's activity.
The deeper the runner gets into heavy training, the more essential habit becomes. When the body begins to resist the miles, when the legs feel heavy, or the brain fogs from fatigue, the easiest thing to do is what one did yesterday -- hit the standard loop. We have run it so many times that it almost literally runs itself. We are responsible for a minute or two of effort, but once out the door and on the loop, t…
Quite an impressive year, Jeff, total distance and times both. Of special interest to me is how, in the doing of it, you also managed to find the time to make 42 blog posts! Congratulations on all!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Dallas! The key to it all was neglecting personal relationships and professional responsibilities. It's pretty straightforward if you've got your priorities wacked. ;)
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year!
people who count stuff are messed up.
ReplyDeleteNumbers are a part of the game. Which is more essential--quantity or quality? An idea for a new post?
ReplyDelete