I never knew how much I’d come to love running later in my life, especially since it used to be a punishment back in the day when I played soccer. When errors were made, laps and suicides were run – it was brutal and something I really hated at the time. After my soccer days came to an end, I picked up running – first at the gym on the treadmill, and then outside after being inspired by a friend who ran frequent races.
Over the past 5 years, I’ve come to love and embrace running more than anything, and it’s also come to represent a peace and calmness in my life that I crave. When I’m out on a run is often when I find myself working through personal issues or coming to decisions that I’d been struggling to make.
What I love most of all is the simplicity involved in running. I love that all you really need is a pair of sneakers. No other equipment is needed or will help you get through a run; just your own personal drive to make it happen.
While I started to run outdoors for the camaraderie (of run club) and the challenge (of racing), I’m still finding ways that running continues to excite and inspire me as we all weather these challenging times:
#ROYO
The Miami running community has never faltered in its consistent attempt to keep local runners hyped up about everything that has to do with running this town. Whether it’s a local run club (accessible in literally every area of the 305), or the MANY races (and stunning courses) available throughout the year, there’s always something to look forward to as a runner here.
Recently, there’s been a new movement called #ROYO, or Run On Your Own, which promotes the continuation of our sport, but in a way that’s safe and respectful to the social distancing ordinances in place. It’s a fun and motivating way to continue hitting the pavement, while also staying connected to the local running community by way of sharing photos and videos of us all continuing to do what we love to do.
Virtual Races
One of the primary reasons I run outdoors (instead of on the treadmill) is because of how much I love to race. I’m a fiercely competitive person when it comes to athletics, and I love that my own progression in running is an ongoing competition with myself to be the best runner I can be.
I’m so thankful that I was able to complete the two half marathons I had on the calendar at the beginning of this year, as they both represented major milestones in my journey back to running after the birth of my son. However, there were also a few upcoming races this spring that I was really looking forward to – and still hope to participate in at some point. The good news is that just because there’s no congregating at an official start line, the racing continues!
In another encouraging move by the Miami running community, a new Virtual Run Club Series has been implemented, whereby a virtual “race” is completed every Saturday by those wishing to participate. What’s also cool (and inclusive, which continues to speak to the awesomeness of the running community in general) is that no distance is assigned – you can run as little or as far as you want, and then post your “results” for everyone else to see and cheer you on!
Yep, running in Miami is the absolute best.
It All Comes Down To The Running Community
One of the best parts of the running community, in general, is how unbelievably kind and caring the majority of runners really are. I’ve met and bonded with some of my closest friends through running, and find that I rarely run past anyone (ever) who doesn’t wave or offer some kind of friendly salutation, which always brings a smile to my face and an extra pep in my step!
For the many of us struggling to stay afloat physically, mentally, emotionally or financially at this current time, it’s these simple gestures (and virtual kudos) that runners never fail to give in abundance, that mean more than anything right now, and offer rays of sunlight during an otherwise gloomy time.
So, what better time to continue (or even better – start) running? We welcome anyone and everyone with open arms and of course, lots of smiles and waves!
How has running and/or the running community helped you weather the coronavirus pandemic?