This past week I have been reading two amazing books that have really motivated me and changed my perspective on running.

I am generally very self-competitive (which is why running is great), but it can tend to get me a bit down if I have a slow run or just miss a new personal best. After reading “Born to Run” and (in the midst of) “Eat & Run” I have been inspired! Now don’t get me wrong, both of these books are about ultramarathoners (although very different perspectives), I do not intend to start running 50 or 100 mile races…in fact, I’m not even sure I’ll ever run a marathon – or even survive the 1/2 I am registered for in September. BUT both of these books focus on the zen/meditation feeling that one can get from running when we stop focusing on time and just listen to our own bodies and relish in the fact that we are strong and capable.

On Monday completed my longest run since last summer – 13km. Although it wont break any records and my pace was slower than when I do my 5 or 10k runs I felt great! Usually if I encounter a change in plans for my run I get frustrated thinking about how my pace will be effected. This time I encountered a surprise patch of leftover snow…and when I say patch I mean like 1-2km…but instead of grumbling I just focused on short strides and every step as it happened. It felt amazing! I am hopeful that I can tap into this feeling on future runs as it was very relaxing and exhilarating all at the same time.

Also, I have a friend who recently started running even though she generally thinks of herself as someone who “hates exercise”…two weeks in and I think she might be a little addicted! She has 8 runs in already this month and is going strong…I have no doubt she will be on my tail…and then passing me in no time! So feel inspired people, no matter what you think your feelings are on exercise or how afraid of your own fitness level you are get out there!!! No matter how slow or short your run, you are still lapping everyone on the couch!!!

I would love to hear about any books or movies you have read/seen that have changed your way of looking at health or fitness…these are the two I mentioned above. 🙂