Last summer, when I was training for the Columbus Half Marathon, one of the things that kept me motivated was watching my "short runs" grow longer than previous "long runs." For example, in early June, my long run was four miles, but by August, even my shortest runs were at least that long. That math works both ways, however; it has been a little discouraging this winter trying to rebuild my running base and seeing that my long runs wouldn't even have counted as short runs in October. From that perspective, today was a major breakthrough. Today, for the first time this year, my long run was longer than any of my short runs has ever been. Of course, I'll keep building on that, and in a few months, I'll watch my short run distance surpass today's run, but that's the way it's supposed to work.

And, to make it even better, the long run felt good today. Part of the pleasure was that it was 35 degrees out, and most of the ice and slush had been cleared off of the bike paths; I was able to run outside. I really don't like running inside, trying to ignore the oppressive heat, humidity, and noise of the gym. When I'm outside, I'm alone with my thoughts and the landscape. I don't need my iPod, because I can listen to the birdsong. I don't have to watch the numbers on my screen climb, because I can watch the Scioto River flowing past. Then, after I finish a good outdoor run, my body thanks me with a sense of the utmost peace and tranquility. I'm so glad spring is starting to arrive!

Filed in category: running