Linda, who is also a lot funny is a mom who runs.
Linda's blog, 2nd Cup of Coffee, was one of the first I read when I began blogging in 2008. Her humorous take on life encourages me to find the funny, too. A contributing writer to Life Savors Savory Stories to Inspire Your Soul and A Cup of Comfort Devotions for Mothers and Daughters, Linda is also a columnist for her local Muncie, Indiana paper.
I asked Linda about running. I may or may not have been drinking coffee. I'm pretty sure she was.
Linda, when and why did you start running?
After watching my husband run for a few years, I began in my early 30s (I’m now 47). I have not always run without sabbaticals or waning enthusiasm, but once I fell in love with running, I could never entirely forget or forsake it. In fact, writing about running right now just gave me an emotional twitch, tempting me to stop writing and put on my shoes!
About 15 years ago, I went through a bad bout of depression which lasted a couple of years. One of the things I did to combat that oppression was run, and it truly helped in conjunction with counseling and meds. Running helped save me. It was a gift from God.
How do you motivate yourself to go for a run?
I know that when I let too much time pass between runs, I lose ground, no pun intended.
I know that about one mile into the run, I will start to feel the most joy I have probably felt all day.
I know that when the run ends, I will feel as though I have accomplished something not every 47 year-old can do.
I know that I’m taking care of my body.
I know that running helps with weight management.
I know that I’m setting a good example to my children in staying active.
Running allows me to absolutely bathe in those blessings." ~ LInda Crow
How many times a week do you run?
I like to run every day, even if it’s just a short course of 2 or 3 miles, but realistically, I’d say I run every other day. I go a little longer on Saturdays.
Favorite route?
I like to run in the road (sidewalks don’t “give” with your foot strike). I run through neighborhoods and on one very busy road in our town. I don’t mind traffic so much (there is actually a sidewalk there) because it’s predictable. There are no cars jumping out of bushes or barking and growling at me. So I trade the beauty of a trail for the relative safety of lots of eyes and ears around. However, if I have a partner, I like to run in more scenic places, like our beautiful trail. In the winter, I use an elliptical machine to keep my endurance up.
What do you think about when you run?
For some reason, one of my first thoughts is always, “Thank you, God, for this day, and for this chance to be outside and enjoy the world you have created.” After that, I may continue to pray or work out problems in my head, re-live pleasant memories or listen to music. Lately I’ve been into music, but I think I’m going to cut back so that I can have some of that quiet time I mentioned.
Sometimes I check my form; that is, I make sure my shoulders are relaxed, arms not crossing my body, hands relaxed, looking straight ahead, forward motion instead of up and down, etc.
When you’re running, there is no one to interrupt you, no one calling for “Mommy,” no media to distract, no chores to be ignored. You look at the clouds and trees and remember how small you are. It’s comforting, in a way.
What physical benefit do you enjoy most from running?
Honestly, I think the emotional benefits are as valuable, maybe even more so, than the physical, but strictly physically speaking, I’d say weight management.
Running goals?
Occasionally I sign up for a 5K, but mostly I just try to get out there regularly. Just keep at it. On the days it’s difficult, I tell myself, “It’s hard, but it’s not impossible. Finish!” And I do.
~Linda running the Indy Mini~
Cross training?
I lift small weights at home. It’s important to balance your workouts so that your upper body gets attention, too. And weight-bearing exercises help with bone loss. Plus it gives you nice lookin’ sculpted “guns.”
How has running helped you be a better wife and mom?
Running makes you physically stronger and increases your endurance, so it follows that you can last longer doing the daily Mom Gig. It’s a great stress reliever and as I mentioned before, gives you a little time and space between you and your young ones. Even a 30 minute run can do wonders for you emotionally. Do not discount the benefits of sunlight on your body and spirit, even if you use sunscreen (recommended, of course).
What is your #1 tip for a mom who wants to start running?
Get fitted in good shoes by someone who can analyze your stride.
Start by walking. When you build up some endurance, start a very slow jog toward a pre-determined goal, such as a mailbox or stop sign. Then walk again. Or you can walk for 5 minutes and jog for 30 seconds or 1 or 2 minutes.
The main thing is, don’t rush yourself. A beginner’s biggest mistake is increasing time, mileage, speed too quickly. Be patient. It’s not a competition; it’s a process. You’re beginning a long, glorious journey!
Linda: *Addendum: As soon as I typed the last word, I went for a run on a glorious summer night!
7 comments:
Thanks so much for "running" your thoughts by me! Check back because I enjoy keeping the conversation running.