The Reason Why I Run

When I started this blog in 2014, I had recently completed the Blackpool Half Marathon. It was, then, my greatest achievement. Whilst I have now taken on more challenging races and distances, the reason why I run has largely stayed the same.

My first piece was going to focus on my proudest running achievement at Blackpool Half Marathon.  I’ve come to realise, however, that it’s slightly pointless recounting running memories without establishing some sort of common ground with you, my readership.

So, why do I, a 20 year old university student whose time would probably be best spent in the gym, instead find myself heading out of the door for a 5 mile run?

This is story of why I choose to run.

Growing Up With Sport

Like many people, I never really enjoyed nor excelled at sport in school.  I was the classic ‘last pick’ whenever it came round to football, cricket or hockey.  At some point towards the end of my time at high school I decided that I needed to find a sport that I could both enjoy and improve at.  Running was that sport.

In-game competition is often the big driver in most sports; in football, cricket, rugby and many other team games the goal of the activity is to beat the other team.  Running, by contrast, focuses on self-improvement rather than ‘winning’ other than at elite level.  In my first few years of running I have seen the difference in myself and it is encouraging and exciting to hear others’ stories.

Running also gives me time to enjoy peace and quiet; a time to gather my thoughts.  It is those thoughts that I intend to post in this blog and I hope that you enjoy reading my next entry, whenever that may be.