I finally got around to reading Christopher McDougall's "Born to Run!" It was fascinating, and I really think now, as I'm getting more serious about running, was the right time for me to read it.
The book is truly inspirational and centers around a common topic any runner has pondered: Why does my foot hurt? This leads to a quest to find the remarkable Tarahumara Indians in Mexico, the world's greatest distance runner, tales of (what I'd consider) super-human feats, and the conclusion: everything we're doing to become better runners is ruining us.
For a girl who has often scoffed at people running around in Five Finger Shoes while rocking my Asics with built-in arch support to prevent shin splints and other injuries, this came as a shock. But as I sat there curled up with this book, I found myself wishing it were warm enough for me to give this a try: running in grass three times a week to strengthen the muscles in my feet. Sounds crazy, but after this book, it seems worth a try.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not a true believer just yet. I went to my local running store, Fleet Feet Sports, and had them run me through different tests to find the best shoes for me, settling on the Brooks Ravenna 4. But I'll consider incorporating some of the minimalist theories into my training plan.
There were so many quotes in this book that hit home with me, but one of them really rang true. As the author is lined up, about to embark on a 50 mile race through Tarahumara wilderness, his friend says to him, "Look, I got some bad news. You're not going to win. No matter what you do, you're going to be out there all day. So you might as well just relax, take your time, and enjoy it."
For too long, I didn't bother with road races, knowing that I wasn't going to be the fastest. I knew I didn't stand a chance, so I focused my energies elsewhere - giving up track and cross country for field hockey, soccer and lacrosse, where speed and endurance were just one tool in your arsenal.
It was just in the last two years that I've found my love of running. It sounds simple, but once you find your "forever pace," you can let go, enjoy the run and take pride in finishing the race. There's a certain freedom I've discovered by focusing on this. Dropping comparisons to others, and knowing that I'm better than when I started. Alright, I have to include another quote that goes right along with that idea...
"They were expected to accomplish nothing, so they could try anything. Audacity beckoned."
"Born to Run" is a must-read book for people in any stage of their running journey. You won't regret it!
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