I went running yesterday. As I was heading out, I thought, “why do I keep running?” My first thought was gratitude. I am so grateful that I can run. I am so grateful that my body is strong enough and pain-free enough that I can run. Being able to move quickly and freely is one of the great joys of being alive.

Then I thought, “the only way I will still be running in 5 years and in 10 years is if I keep running.” I want to be able to move quickly and freely at 60. But that won’t happen if I stop running now. So, I keep running so I can…keep running.

That’s a long term goal. Fortunately, running also has many short-term benefits. Yesterday’s were obvious. I live in Colorado and one of the amazing things about living here is that in the middle of winter, with snow still on the ground, we can have a 60 degree day. And yesterday was one of those beautiful reprieves from winter. I was able to run in shorts and a T-shirt. I felt free and healthy and happy to be alive. So, I run for the joy of the moment.

I also care about my fitness level. I care that I manage my weight so that those pounds don’t start slipping on. And running is great cardio work and a great calorie burner. So, I run to stay in shape.

So, I keep running. How about you?

This entry was posted on Sunday, January 17th, 2010 at 10:18 am and is filed under Physical. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.