Hey ,
I spent this weekend thinking about my relationship with running and how it has evolved. For years, I always had a race to look forward to during the fall. I would get up early to run through my neighborhood, join CFG weekly runs, and check my Strava stats often. Since the pandemic started, I haven't set specific run goals or logged many miles.
To be honest, the thought of running long distance feels daunting. It just doesn't feel the same without the accountability of the group or with a race on my calendar.
In a recent newsletter, Takia mentioned not to compare your current fitness level to your pre-pandemic fitness level. She's right, but it's so much easier said than done. I can't help but think that I can go out for 5 miles tomorrow just because I did it years ago.
In the City Fit Girls Facebook group, someone asked if anyone was interested in shorter distance runs (1-2 miles). This post was the reality check I needed. There are over 70 comments on that post with members all over the city looking to "start small".
It reminded me that I don't have to stress about whether or not I can run 10 miles, instead, I should focus on shorter runs and grow from there.
, if you are someone in need of motivation to get going again, here's a suggestion: start small. To take my own advice, I've outlined my new approach to running with my current fitness level:
- Sign up for (1) race. I've committed to the New Jersey Marathon (half-marathon option) in October.
- Run 2-3 days a week without the pressure of distance. Training for this half-marathon won't start until August. In the meantime, I will use the summer to get back into a routine.
- Join City Fit Girls monthly runs. The next group run is THIS Saturday at 9AM at the Art Museum steps.
I am going to stick with these 3 goals for now and see how the experience goes. If you could benefit from starting small, let me know. Otherwise, I'll see you on the trail or on Strava.
Kiera
