If Running Hurts So Much, Why Do We Do It So Often? | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Sports

If Running Hurts So Much, Why Do We Do It So Often?

The Qualitative Case for Running

92
If Running Hurts So Much, Why Do We Do It So Often?
https://az616578.vo.msecnd.net/files/2017/12/06/636481715831947784-1380820736_leica_school_boy_holland_netherlands_girl_amsterdam_sport-233534.jpg

Truth be told, I never quite figured out why I started running. I had spent my school career a bona fide nerd; the last place you’d think to find me was out on the track. But whether by parental pressure or divine intervention, something dragged me away from my Descartes and Hemingway and landed me square in the middle of the cross country team.

Admittedly, running was not love at first sight.

It hurt. There was the exhaustion, the soreness, the callouses. The things that, for some, immediately trigger the gag reflex at the sound of the word “running.” I spent a decent chunk of time not knowing why anyone in their right mind would readily do this before something finally started to click.

It wasn’t what I expected out of a sport. It wasn’t fierce or aggressive; the gratification didn’t come from a heated moment of competition. It was meditative, calming, a quiet place to escape. Heading out to run each day gave me a chance to put aside school for a few minutes and focus on my body, the world around me, and just moving forward.

Beyond the basic being-decently-in-shape-ness, I can’t really attest to the physiological benefits of running. I’ve heard that it’ll do anything from enlarging the heart to curing cancer; all I’ve managed to procure is sports-induced asthma and some nice, thick blisters. But I do know that there’s no better cure for midterms than a good run. Spend a day pouring over textbooks, and the famous gush of endorphins (so aptly labelled the runner’s high) is nothing less than a clean shot of euphoria.

I won’t lie -- running hurts. But like so much of life, it’s not theft; it’s exchange. Running might take a lot of grit teeth and tenacity, but it offers some great moments and a place to go when the world is just too much.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Taylor Swift in orange dress playing a moss-covered piano on stage with bright lights.

A three-and-a-half-hour runtime. Nine Eras. Eleven outfit changes. Three surprise songs. Zero breaks. One unforgettable evening. In the past century, no other performer has put on an electric performance quite like Taylor Swift, surpassing her fans ‘wildest dreams’. It is the reason supporters keep coming back to her shows each year. Days later, I’m still in awe of the spectacle ‘Miss Americana’ puts on every few days in a new city. And, like one of Taylor’s exes, has me smiling as I reminisce about the memories of the night we spent together.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

25705
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

10752
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

7933
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments