Running The Race At A Different Pace

So you want to get into shape and use running as your primary exercise.   And to help keep you motivated, you link up with a running partner or party.  Together,  all of you run your training runs together and help cheer each other up when the pain begins.   And it works!   It keeps folks running who would otherwise quit somewhere along the way. 

But what happens when you discover that you want to break away from the pack?   Do you limit your potential by continuing the pace set by the other person or group leader? (What if they are slowing you down?)   Or do you break out and move forward at a new pace.  Your pace!  

It is a common question for runners who are trying to constantly improve their times and lengthen their distances.  And at some point, they may have to join up with another "faster"group or pace partner to get the goals that they set for themselves.   It makes sense, in a way.   The "starter pack" can only get you so far. 

But what about the partner who is left behind?   What do they do?   Do they quit running altogether since  the possible motivation for running is gone?   

Let's think about that for a sec.   There are advantages  to running that folks should think about before abandoning it completely.   There are the health bonuses!  Your heart, lungs, blood pressure, and leg strength and endurance are all included.  There is also the mental perks that come with routine exercise and bodily stress.  And by now, you have finally formed a habit. Giving up all of that just because your pacer decides they want to chase a better finishing time does not sound like a very good reason.   

But there are options!  You can continue solo if that is what you want.   You can also buy a dog!  Many dogs make really good running partners.  Or you can find another running group or individual that is more at your pace. Anything to keep you playing the game and running the race of health and well being. 

And so you see all of the various pace groups that run the races.   They may start out as walkers, but eventually, they will all reach the pace where they are comfortable or challenged or aiming for.  Not everyone can win the race, yet knowing this,  many people decide to run the race anyway.  And many of them will finish it.   And for them,  the finisher's medal is the proof that they are winners of a different race.  A race for health, mental toughness, friendship, or even life.    The only "losers" of the race are the ones who drop out  before the finish or never get off the couch to begin with.  ("Loser" might  be a bit harsh, but you get my drift." How can you 'lose' something you never try? ")

Racing and running really have a pace for everyone.   They are the most all inclusive and welcoming  event you could ever ask for.   The rules are simple:   Cross over the start line when the gun goes off.  Run/walk the distance while staying on the prescribed route.  And finally,  finish the race and gather up your bananas, chocolate milk and finisher's medal.   That's it.  Simple!**

And along the way you can wear tutu's,  costumes, or festive gear.   You can run the race barefoot while juggling or yo-yoing!  You can push a stroller, wheelchair, or drag a dog along the way.  All are welcome and everyone is happy to see you there.  In fact, you may even find a quirky pace group that you can link up with along the way. 

But in the end,   running is an individual sport.    Everyone, no matter who they run with, has to cross the finish line by themselves.   And that means that the individual gets to choose the pace they want to chase. If they never win a race;  If they never win and award;  They will at least win the part of life that rewards achievement and health.  And that is a huge thing.  I mean,  isn't Life a lot like running a race? 

So choose your path.  Choose your pace!  Do you want to race through life trying to see just how far you can go?  OR perhaps you want to walk through life at a slower pace,   enjoying the scenery and strawberries at mile 24.   ( And Beer at mile 25!)   And if you can find someone to motivate you along the way, all the better.  But it will still always be you who crosses the finish line when the time comes.

    ** Murpy's laws of war:

14.  The Important things are always Simple.  

15. The Simple things are always Hard.

16. The Easy way is always Mined!