I could write this post every single day — and it would remain true. The running community is an amazing thing and I have found so much inspiration, motivation, and love. Some of these people I have met, had conversations with, taken selfies next to… others, our paths have not crossed, but the love remains the same.
People that I did not know several years ago have turned into friends I have conversation with daily — from texts to tweets. These are friendships that have been created from a shared passion for fitness and have grown. I have opened up and shared a lot of my personal persona into these “virtual” friendships and tried to take them outside of the social media realm. From tweet ups to group runs through the streets of San Francisco, I have tried to embrace this community with open arms and without hesitation.
For me, part of loving this community is about giving back to it. When I started running, I knew NOTHING. We’re talking basketball shoes and shorts below the knees. I am the runner that I am today BECAUSE of the running community.
I continue to grow and learn from those around me, forever the student. We have to continue to share the knowledge and spread the love. We have to celebrate each other, be kind to one another, and give back what we receive — both in running and life.
Thank you to everyone that has touched my life. I’m hoping that I can return the favor.
What a lovely post <3 Isn't the running community great? :)
My favorite thing about running is runners! Always!
This. All of this. <3
Agreed!! I need to draw on that community right now, in fact…I was just scheduled for inguinal hernia repair surgery and there will be no running for a while. Surgery is scheduled for March 9th and then recovery begins.
I’m feeling pretty blue right now. Can’t even do much XT since the doc’s guideline on activity was “if it hurts, don’t do it or you’ll make the tear worse”. Well, that leaves…walking and a little bit of work on the heavy bag but not much else.
How do you get through these times when you can’t train?????
I’m not a hernia expert. I’m just another runner (with a metric ton of group ex and yoga certifications) who hates that you’re feeling blue. So I did a little tiny research and brainstorm…since I don’t live in your body, I don’t know what hurts (and of course I agree,” if it hurts, don’t do it.”!) But here are my suggestions…
How about NOT strenuous swimming? Or half-swimming (using a board or floatie so you are only working arms or only working legs, depending on what hurts)? M
aybe gentle or restorative yoga, since “gentle” tends to be flowy and less intense but still gets you moving? Maybe floor-based Pilates leg exercises (I’m thinking like clams and other small movements)?
Or easier/beginner barre (harder than it looks, but you could probably avoid any pain by limiting range of motion)?
Maybe prone half-superman (upper body extension and lift only) or prone upper body/back cross-training?
That’s all I’ve got. Good luck :)
I love every bit of this. It’s so true. Even though I’ve been running for over 15 years, I continue to learn from and be inspired by my fellow runners. That’s what I love about running and the running community in general.
Well said!!
My Black Girls RUN! Lansing group has become more and more important to my every day life. They rock. Runners rock.
This is absolutely the truth. It is the greatest thing about running. The bonds are hard to describe to others who don’t run. The connections made are deep and spiritual and so incredibly inspiring. Thanks for reminding everyone to love this community we’re so blessed to be part of. xo