Just because I have been dealing with injuries the past few months, that does not mean that I don’t have lots to celebrate and be proud of in my little running world. I am trying to focus on celebrating my running successes that have nothing to do with pace or distance.
Celebrating Running Successes
Warming Up and Post Run Stretching
Being vigilant about warming up before runs has helped me to return to running faster post injury. Hopefully, this will also pay off in helping to avoid future injuries. Properly stretching and foam rolling post run sets me up for better recovery.
[See warm up stretches you have time to do]
Consistency
Setting a plan each week for how many days I plan to run and sticking to that plan is something to celebrate. Being in a routine with exercise feels good.
Mental and Physical Rewards
Embracing the many positive psychological benefits of running makes me smile. Running endorphins provide me with empowering feelings that increase my self esteem. Having a stress outlet is priceless and helps me be more productive in the rest of my life. For me, the social aspect of running is a huge motivator.
Heart Healthy Gifts
I am celebrating the gifts that running gives my body. Running helps to keep my heart healthy and my muscles and bones nice and strong as I age.
There are so many things to celebrate about running that have nothing to do with pace or distance. What are some of the benefits of running that you celebrate?
linking up with FairytalesandFitness
So true! Above all, I celebrate the mental and physical rewards running gives me. It feels so good to be fit and healthy and getting mental energy from running. I love that you run so often with a group! That is even more fun!
I agree so much to celebrate happy running
I love the stamina I get from running–I’ve been able to be that active mom over the years! Hence the tag line to my blog post–sitting on the sidelines is no fun. It’s not and I want to continue to be right in there alongside everyone else.
Yes I agree that was my goal as well. I’d say we both crushed that one! 😊
One of my favorite benefits of running is just clearing my head. It’s so nice to go outside and take in the scenery. Plus I love that it gets me outside in the winter when I could easily just cozy up on the couch.
Yes another great benefit. Happy running
This is all so true! I definitely celebrate that running has made my body stronger and it’s a great way to work off stress 🙂
Definitely true!
I’ve been reading a bunch of old blog posts (part of my “re-uploading all the disappearing pics” project), and I came across a similar post as this. I said if one can’t find a reason to smile while running, then fix that attitude (paraphrased, LOL). There are a many benefits to running (and fitness in general), the most significant of which are the health benefits (physical & emotional). And let’s not forget all the friends we’ve met along the way 🙂
The friends are the best part!
Running has so, so many benefits that have nothing to do with speed & distance! One of the main things for me is stress reduction.
Absolutely! Nothing better than a sweaty clear your head run
Couldn’t agree more with everything that you said, especially staying consistent with running. I think that’s a huge running goal because it’s so easy to skip a run, especially during the Winter months!
Very true! It really gives you a true sense of accomplishment to stay consistent
I love how you are also so consistent with your stretching and recovery! I always consider myself a “lazy runner”…lol Because I like the run, but then I’m done! I need to get better at that! Thanks for linking up with us!
I have had too many running injuries over the years so I am much more focused on it now
I’ve been missing the social aspect lately because we’ve been traveling and was injured, but I finally made it to a group run last week and it was great to catch up with a friend.
It is the best way to catch up!
I like your positive attitude! There are so many good things about running beyond pace and distance. Sometimes just feeling strong is nice!
Thanks and yes I agree! Feeling strong is nice
Yes!! I run for the mental well-being rewards!
Those are always a plus!
Yes. The mental benefits. Improves a bad day for sure. Which is why being injured is a downer.
I feel healthier. I don’t get colds or sick.
I have awesome friends that I met because of running.
I could go in and on.
Hope we both have a good running 2020.
Yes I also believe it keeps me from getting sick (knock on wood). Cheers to happy running in 2020. Can’t wait to see you later!
Leave it to injury to give us more perspective! I think I am most grateful for the health benefits related to running but the social aspects, confidence boost, sense of accomplishment and endorphins are close behind.
So many things to love and so much to gain from running
I need to be better about stretching before and after. I love the you are finding the positive here!!
I am sure trying to! Thanks
I always say I run to keep myself sane and that’s pretty well what I do it for, also to help keep my cholesterol levels down – a bit win there from running along with oat consumption! Also it gives me a sense of community, with my friends, other runners and the wider running community, and an opportunity to serve through volunteering.
The sense of community is huge for me as well!