This week’s theme for Tuesdays on the Run is “The best thing about running is…”, but how could I choose just one thing? I figured five was a reasonable number, without going too overboard. Be sure to check out the link-up to see what everyone else loves about running! Thanks Marcia, Patty, and Erica for hosting!
I tried not to overthink this too much and just came up with the first five things that popped into my head.
1.Being outside: It always feels good to get fresh air and some Vitamin D. I don’t spend much time outdoors besides when I am running (expect in the summer) so my daily run gives me a reason to get out there.
2.The gear and accessories: I may not love spending money on this stuff, but I would rather buy running shoes, outfits, and gear than most other things!
3. The endorphins: There is nothing like that feeling I get after a good run. Not all runs are good runs, but I think that’s what makes the good ones that much more special. And 99% of the time I am glad I got out there, even after a not-so-good run.
4. The challenge: I think the reason I like training for races (specially longer distances) is because of the challenge they provide me with. As much as I may dread speed work or a 20 miler, part of my loves the feeling I get after I complete one of these tough runs.
5. The community: I may be a solo runner but I still love the running community! The run-blog community has introduced me to so many amazing people all over the world! And if I meet someone in real life and find out they are also a runner, we instantly have something to talk about. (I’m pretty sure the IT guy from work helps me out a little extra because we bonded over marathon training a few years ago.)
[Tweet “The Best Things About Running! @runningoutowine”]
What are your favorite things about running?
Do you “connect” better with people you meet when they are also a runner?
I agree! The gear is pretty cool. I love the simplicity of lacing on a pair of shoes and heading out the door.
There are so many options, but you can be as simple or complicated as you want when it come to running gear and clothes!
the fresh air in the morning always feels so nice, especially after months of being inside in the treadmill, then I really notice how much I like running outside! Oh and the endorphins for sure!
Even just that one week when I ran indoors reminded me of how much I enjoy being outside, even when its cold!
Truth! I met a fellow runner at a holiday party and that was it for the rest of the night. So funny how we can go on and on about running when we find a kindred spirit! Thanks for linking up!
I know, right?! We are a special breed for sure. It’s always fun to meet and connect with a fellow runner.
I always look forward to “springing ahead” because I mostly run in the early evening, and the end of March was when I could start wearing shorts again! I have to say the Fall is my favorite time to run. The endorphins, oh my! People you meet at races are really nice! New shoes are always a treat! Running on vacation is awesome too! Back in Philly, my internist was a runner. He didn’t have a great personality, and some people didn’t care for him, but we always connected and enjoyed talking about running and races.
Those are some great things about running that I definitely agree with! And I guess talking about running can really bring out the best in people who enjoy it:)
As I sad on Marcia’s blog, the best thing about running to me is that there is no ONE best part! I love that I can take something different from each and every run.
So true! No run is the same, and there are a million things to love about it.
I a not a big shopper, but when it comes to running gear and attire, I love it.
Me too! I love new running gear but hate spending money on work clothes.
Hahah yes, the gear! It’s funny because whenever I’m buying regular shoes I contemplate them for a long time before finally shelling over the cash. When it comes to running shoes I don’t even think twice! I guess it’s because I consider good running shoes a necessity and regular shoes are just … a nice to have! hahaha
Haha I know what you mean! I don’t really have much fashion sense so regular shoes are just a requirement, while running shoes are fun!
I think out of the ones you listed, being outdoors and the endorphins are my top two! I don’t think I would be outside near as much if I didn’t run! And obviously from my post today, I NEED endorphins sometimes.
Yes the endorphins are key! I am in a such better mood on days when I run!
I totally connect with people when I find out they are a runner! It’s so easy to bond over the joys of running!
Isn’t it so great to chat with other runners? I feel like I can talk about it forever!
Outdoors and community are definitely my favorites also. Running also lets me funnel my competitive side and love for setting and achieving goals into a healthy habit.
That’s another good one! I am not usually competitive but running gives me something to work towards and I can just focus on competing against myself!
The community’s the best. I discovered a coworker in a different department is also a runner because he was wearing the shirt from a half marathon I did in 2012. Hey, I know that shirt!
Isn’t that the best?! I love finding other runners that way!
The best thing about running for me is that I can some ALONE TIME. I’m with people all day long, and I so desperately crave that time to myself. I think this is my number one reason that I run!
Thats a great reason! I use my running time to think; even though I get enough alone time my brain is always focusing on what I need to do next, but while I am running my thoughts can wander anywhere!
I totally agree with everything on your list! I’m not a big spender, but I love buying new running shoes and cute gear 🙂
I always look forward to breaking in a new pair of running shoes or treating myself to a new running outfit!
I have to say that every time I start a run outside, no matter the weather, I love being out in the fresh air!
I always love the fresh air too. I may complain about the weather but I still appreciate being outside!
Running is truly the only thing that will get me to spend time outdoors, and I’m really grateful for that! I’ve found a new appreciation for fresh air and sunshine because of running. For me, the friends I’ve made and the community are #1, and I think so many runners feel this way because it’s TRUE! Our community is the best!
Yes exactly! We do have such a wonderful running community!
Other runners are the best. You always have a connection to talk about.
So true!
great list, especially the get outdoots part. i dont spend a lot of time outside, dang desk job, so running is my source of connecting with nature. i love seeing what changes over time and houses being built, all the jazz!