“It’s easy to be brave from a safe distance.” -Aesop’s Fables
I guess I’ve been brave all my life! Among many things, I’ve watched the Boston Marathon from a “safe distance” many times. This year I was at the start in Hopkinton and watched as thousands of runners packed the queue and filed by anxiously awaiting their turn. In truth, I’ve never been waiting for my turn. Though I’ve always considered myself an athlete, (that is to say, I enjoy athletic pursuits) if it isn’t chasing a ball, I generally have no interest. Such is the case with running - no interest whatsoever.
But I do have interest in being fit and so have dabbled in some biking over the past years as a way to get some independent exercise (no partner needed as in tennis, soccer, etc.) But biking is challenged by weather here in the northeast in winter months, so I have made a decision - get off the sideline and jump into the fray - I’m going to try my hand at running.
Pathetic at the start, really. I nearly killed myself to go 1.6 miles. Lasted slightly more than 15 minutes. Done. That was several weeks ago and now with nearly a dozen runs under my belt I’m making painful but steady progress. Last night I ran farther than I ever have - four miles. Well, after about 3.2 I walked about 50 yards, but then finished strong. Next time I’ll eliminate the walk.
I don’t know where this is going for me. I have no designs on a marathon, but I feel good despite the sore legs and creaky knees. I have signed up for a 5K (my first ever!) and now actually expect to finish. I’ll no longer be on the sidelines, and it feels good.
Dan Scheerer, SmartGeorge
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