The Second Run

The most important run after the first run is the second run. Today I went on a run for the second day in a row. Just like that, momentum is building.

Generally, I post to this blog weekly when I am at my most-frequent posting schedule. I am in the mood to post again today though, so here I am, doing it. These are pretty much the same circumstances as yesterday. I went for a run, took a shower, and now I am sitting at my computer writing this. I have the same post-run optimism that I had yesterday.

Yesterday’s run jogged my memory once it was over. I remembered the satisfying feeling of going on a run. I remembered the way this all gets packaged up. You push yourself out the door, you get the run over with, and then you feel great about it. Today, my memory could recall the past earlier than it did yesterday. After taking Podo on his morning walk, I felt the creakiness in my legs. I was a little sore from yesterday. This soreness could serve as a very plausible reason to not go for a run again today. And anyway, isn’t it bad to run everyday? Even though I spend 99% of my day sitting still, don’t we need days off?

But then, a memory. In some ways our bodies and minds are truly at odds with each other. They both have memories. My body remembers an old habit I had when I was a jacked gym rat - don’t think. Use no reason. All you have to do is put your sneakers on and walk out the door, and we will have won.

This is a mental shortcut that I remember when I have the right circumstances around me to remember it. I remember being happier after the run. I remember the fact that once you start, it’s over before you know it. I remember that I have never quit in the middle of a run…in fact it’s sort of impossible to do that. I am in the middle of the Allegheny Cemetery at that point. Therefore, I subconsciously piece together the strategy to just move forward, before you catch on to what is happening. I have already spent ungodly amounts of time debating the merits of working out over the course of my life. And just as your brain might convince you to do something, it can also convince you not to do something. To use an available excuse and call it a day.

We are at war with ourselves, and sometimes the best strategy is to stop ourselves from thinking. From time to time I’ll need to think, but let’s face it. I know what I need to do.