Chapter 1: The Initial Struggle

Have you ever tried running? It can be quite unpleasant.

Photo by Emma Simpson on Unsplash

Yet, it possesses an extraordinary beauty. The essence of running lies in its meditative quality. You might be thinking, "Meditation? This is a physically demanding task!" I understand your skepticism; however, there's much more to running than just enduring discomfort.

My Introduction to Running

I embarked on my running journey around the age of 13 and have consistently practiced it since. While I haven't participated in marathons or half-marathons yet—though I hope to one day—I’ve become accustomed to the experience.

As a child, I was fascinated by speed, but long-distance running felt torturous. I often found myself breathless and exhausted within moments. Throughout my youth, I explored various sports like swimming, karate, basketball, and even dance, but none resonated with me.

I realized I preferred solo activities. The moment I acknowledged my struggles with team sports, my journey as a runner began. Initially, stepping out to run felt awkward; I feared being perceived as foolish. This feeling is likely universal among novice runners, regardless of age. If you're contemplating running but are anxious about how you'll appear to others, remember: you’re not alone.

The Truth: Nobody is Watching

The reality is, no one is judging you. Especially in parks or designated running paths, people appreciate anyone taking the time to exercise. They might even smile in encouragement. Once you start running, that initial self-consciousness quickly fades away; you'll be too focused on the run itself.

Photo by Miquel Parera on Unsplash

Embracing the Journey

At first, running was tough and uncomfortable, yet I persisted because it felt right, much like how I feel about writing now. Every phase of life seems to call for a meaningful pursuit.

However, I hesitated to push beyond that distance due to a misguided sense of pride. My brother joined me on my running journey a few years later, challenging me to exceed my 2 km limit, and eventually, I reached 5 kilometers. It took time to move past that milestone, not due to physical limitations, but because I had become complacent with my achievement.

Currently, I am working on surpassing my boundaries; I’ve recently completed an 8 km run, and I believe there are no limits to what I can achieve.

Final Thoughts

Running embodies a form of meditation. There are moments I lace up my shoes feeling anxious or upset, but I return home invigorated and smiling, having released endorphins and realized that my earlier frustrations were trivial.

Running has been a steadfast companion through both challenging and joyful times, and I believe it will remain so for years to come.

So, will you take the plunge into running?

Chapter 2: The Meditative Aspect of Running

In this video, “Running Sucks,” the host discusses the struggles of running while highlighting its unexpected benefits.

“The Secret Shame of Game Design: Why Running Sucks” explores the complexities of running and its impact on both physical and mental health.