Why run?

Purpose:      

Running, either with a running club or on one’s own, is an excellent activity that can be self-paced or as competitive as someone makes it to be.  A running club provides structure, support, and guidance.  The purpose to run for me is to de-stress and relax after an 8 hour day of sitting at the desk.   The run provides time for me to reflect, and provide an outlet for me to release my frustrations and anxiety that I usually take home after a long day at work.  For me, running provided positive health benefits, improved fitness, and relieved stress.   I originally decided to run because it made me feel better, my stamina increased, and I started to lose weight.

 Applications to other practices and pursuits:

Running provides more rewards than people give it credit for.  Initially, it may be for the physical benefits, but one will quickly discover the less tangible rewards of running.  The solitude running provides allows for self-reflection and discovery of the inner self.  Some even achieve a meditative state while running. 

As you push your own limits, and exceed your own expectations, running provides a discipline of one’s own boundaries.  Testing and surpassing one’s own parameters provides the confidence and capability to overcome any challenge being faced.  Running provides exceptional vitality, a keen sense of purpose and tremendous energy for daily living.

Enabling conditions:

·         Running is free for everyone, and run clubs even offer no-cost drop in sessions at set times

·         Anyone can run

·         Runs can be done at any time of the day

·         Someone can choose to run in the privacy of their own home - using a treadmill, run at the track/stadium, or even choose to run locally on the roads/streets.

Limiting factors - social determinants and life course factors

·         An individual with limited financial support may not have the financial means to support this activity.  Financial support may be needed to obtain the equipment needed (runners), as well as provide for child care.

·         Lack of education about running would prevent someone from trying this sport.  Joining a running clinic costs anywhere between $50 - $75 per 12-16 week clinic.

·         Lack of understanding the basic running principles would inhibit someone from running with others.  A culture of understanding and respect amongst runners gets easily established, and would prevent someone from joining.

·         Individuals with health conditions may not have the resources to support this activity. 

People run for many reasons…some want to lose weight, and others want to improve their health.  Overall, running provides many physical, mental and emotional benefits. 
With regards to my commitment to this, I am constantly encouraging not only my friends and family, but also my co-workers to engage in this activity.  Maintaining a healthy work-health-life balance promotes effective working relationships, and thus, leads to success in all three aspects of daily living.

BMO Vancouver International Marathon 2008