Running can do many things for a person, such as relieve stress, keep you in shape, give you good highs, make your heart stronger, and much more. Cross country was my favorite sport I participated in high school, but there were some struggles with it. Overall, cross country was good for my heart, mind, and soul. Here are 10 things every cross-country runner can tell you about.

1. Ice baths.

Even though they were super cold and your legs were red afterwards, nothing felt better than an ice bath when your legs were sore. The best part was that your legs became numb and turned red.

2. Team bonding.

Your team became your best friends. Whether it be camping or pasta parties, you always had a blast bonding with the team.

3. You pushed each other to run faster.

From practice, to workouts, to races, your team was the one to push you.

4. You ate a buffet after practice or a race.

You ate anything and everything once you had your hands on food.

5. Running faster at the end of the race was a must.

Once you see the finish line, you better go or you're going to get passed up by more than one person.

6. Spikes made you feel fast.

Once you put on those spikes and started running, you felt like you were gliding because they were so light compared to trainers.

7. You had the chance to make the paper.

The paper always had runners to watch from the competitive schools.

8. The beginning made your heart race.

Waiting to hear that gun to go made your heart felt like it was beating out of your chest.

9. The scenery was nice in the woods.

Even though it felt like forever running in the woods, at least there was nice scenery to look at.

10. Having an amazing coach made running easier.

Thank you, Coach Belli, for pushing me to be the runner I was. Without your support, guidance, and silliness, cross country wouldn't have been the same and it wouldn't have been my favorite sport!