No Longer “Jogging”: Passion In The Run by Seamus H.

credit: words and photo by Seamus Hermoso of Just Being V.02


Well it used to be just to get fit, or just to get some cardio workout. Some like my friend Jodan does it to spike up his metabolism so he can eat a heavy meal after. My friend RA does it as a motivation to wake up early. My girlfriend aside from getting fit gets a high in shopping and trying out new gear.

Now after more than a month of running every other day and recent weeks where I run everyday, this has become a passion. My above mentioned friends are also feeling the same. It’s no longer just “jogging” or a weekend thing, no longer a casual workout or such but there’s a deeper meaning now with each stride. I now make an effort to run. And I love it.

It doesn’t matter what speed or pace, or what distance I cover. The wind blowing on my face while trying to beat my own time is exhilarating. Aside from the natural high after the run, the sense of accomplishment for the day is always there. Whether training for an upcoming race or fun run, or just doing fartleks, the feeling of empowerment, that I can do more and I can be better for the next run, is enough to make through the day of stress and everyday problems.

When I run, I get to think, clear my head, and when the run is done, I am at peace and in focus ready for the next challenge life may bring. And did I mention it’s a whole lot of fun?

Below is an excerpt from Runner’s World’s John Bingham and I too feel exactly like he feels:

I AM A RUNNER because my runs have names. I do tempo runs and threshold runs and fartlek runs. I do long, slow runs and track workouts. My runs are defined, even if my abs are not.

I AM A RUNNER because my shoes are training equipment, not a fashion statement. The best shoe for me is the one that makes me a better runner. I choose the shoe that goes with my running mechanics, not my running outfit.

I AM A RUNNER because I don’t have running outfits. I have technical shirts and shorts and socks. I have apparel that enhances the experience of running by allowing me to run comfortably. I can say “Coolmax” and “Gore-Tex” in the same sentence and know which does what.

I AM A RUNNER because I know what effort feels like, and I embrace it. I know when I’m pushing the limits of my comfort and why I’m doing it. I know that heavy breathing and an accelerated heart rate–things I once avoided–are necessary if I want to be a better runner.

I AM A RUNNER because I value and respect my body. It will whisper to me when I’ve done too much. And if I choose to listen to that whisper, my body won’t have to scream in pain later on.

I AM A RUNNER because I am willing to lay it all on the line. I know that every finish line has the potential to lift my spirits to new highs or devastate me, yet I line up anyway.

I AM A RUNNER because I know that despite my best efforts, I will always want more from myself. I will always want to know my limits so that I can exceed them.

I AM A RUNNER because I run. Not because I run fast. Not because I run far.

I AM A RUNNER because I say I am. And no one can tell me I’m not.