Why I Run
Posted: February 11, 2013 Filed under: Isms | Tags: 10K, 5K, adrenaline, cadence, endorphins, FC3, fit, jog, running 4 Comments »Running isn’t easy, running isn’t fun, running isn’t rewarding, EXCEPT:
when it is!
Getting in the zone, feeling the wind on my face, gliding through space is something that is not easily put into words. When a runner gets into perfect stride (a cadence — That’s the rate at which your feet hit the ground and it’s different for each person), minutes (maybe even hours for others) seems to pass effortlessly.
Running is a metaphor for life – meeting life’s challenges head on. Not every run is great but each run is part of a progression for a greater goal.
I hated to run as a kid, my dad would make me go – I’d rather be home eating cookies! To this day I thank him when I see him for making me do those runs (and even steps I recall at Ironbound Stadium in Newark, which I am still looking for a replacement). It helped me achieve so much. I can only recall a few, but major accomplishments:
- Being smart in high school – always staying on top of my class
- Making me a faster soccer player – not that I was that fast, but it helped me be fast enough to make the All-State boys soccer team
- Staying fit in the off-season
- Getting me through Architecture school – an intense 5-year program
- 3 years of Internship for an Architect
- IDP – 9 tests over 60 hours in total to become an Architect
Even today, as I face challenges, going for a run helps me clear my head and allows me to recharge. I cannot be worried about problems or deadlines (I’m trying to just finish my run).
There’s a feeling, a sensation, spiritual, chemical, whatever, but it feels so good. These endorphins are hormones that are released by the pituitary gland that have motivational benefits. Many long-distance runners experience frequent rushes of endorphin release.
I don’t do it for the medals or the glory. I run because I love to test my limits. It also helps me track my personal best.
Running and working out are activities I enjoy doing. They help me think healthy and the result is that I make healthy choices throughout the day.
In order to be healthy we need to balance our mind, body, and souls.
Do what you love, just because you love it!
Also Check Out:
- Leap of Faith
- Ignite and Soar
- Greatest Milestones of My Life (so far)
- “Don’t Quit”
- Only Fanatical About Family
We would love to hear from you on what you think about this post. We sincerely appreciate all your comments.
If you like this post please share it with friends. And feel free to contact us if you would like to discuss ideas for your next project!
Sincerely,
Frank Cunha III
I Love My Architect – Facebook
FC3 ARCHITECTURE+DESIGN, LLC
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e-mail: fcunha@fc3arch.com
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as usual, a pleasure read….
Thank you – Main reason, I believe, is to keep from going crazy
I run too, Frank, now 31 years. In my twenties and thirties, I did more competitions, testing limits as you say. in my forties, i piled on a few injuries and started cutting back. then in my fifties, i learned healthy “chi” running, and do 3-5 miles 3-5 times per week, not a single ache or problem. I’ve read that a lifetime runner has the joints of a 20 year old, still spongy, and I hope that’s true. Good for heart, body, and mind. So easy, so essential. Everyone needs something like this.
thanks for sharing your story, it’s encouraging. You are a far more intense runner than me, enjoy! Thats the joy of running, we each find a way. Running Paris streets last week, what a pleasure, the very best way to see a city, Early morning runs, day time runs, what a thrill.
Best,
Cindy @urbanverse
Hi Cindy,
Now you have me thinking about my runs in Sydney, Australia – What a pleasure to run through the best cities in the world!
Thanks for your wonderful comments!
Sincerely,
Frank