As important as fitness is, for both our physical and mental health, I hate running. I have hated running since I was a child, forced to run laps by an arbitrary physical education requirement.
Metaphorically speaking, though, I have been running for most of my life; many of us probably have. In today's world, that relentlessly intense pace seems required for success of any kind. It's no wonder that now extensive markets exist for anything that offers a moment of peace away from the race, whether that is a spa treatment, a yoga class, or simply a fun night out.
Yes, that running after and to everything... It's awful. I used to hate running myself until my back in such a bad shape I had to do something about it. When I could just run in my own pace without having to compete etc. it suddenly started to feel real great.
ReplyDeleteNow it's been a while since the last time due to the winter. I don't want to run indoors and all the snow and ice out there is making it kind of impossible...
Another reason to look forward to spring, then!
DeleteYes, and I suppose that's why they call it the rat race. Believe me I like to exercise for leisure rather than run the rat race. I prefer hiking to running mind you
ReplyDeleteI prefer long walks to running to be honest. I was always a good short distance runner at school but never anything beyond that.
ReplyDeleteIt is important to recognize that there are many other equally legitimate and effective means of maintaining fitness – I prefer several of those to running ;-)
ReplyDeleteI loved running once, but that was long ago. Now I don't like to run, or do weights... Yoga on the other hand. There's a form of exercise I can really sink into (literally!)
ReplyDeleteYoga is fantastic if you have a great instructor - so healthy and relaxing at once.
DeleteA very true post! It's unfortunate how being pressured to do something can make us dislike it so forcefully. I felt the same when teachers insisted Moby Dick was a superb book and I really didn't care for it.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, that happens much too frequently with books that are required reading. I'm so glad I read "The Picture of Dorian Gray" long before I had to read it for a class.
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