Yesterday I had the privilege to run in my first race since moving to the city seven months ago. It was unique in that it was a single loop course, completely indoors. Yep, you read that right. Inside. It was held inside McCormick Place Convention Center. Although it might not have been the most scenic course, it sure felt good to be out there again. Since this is my first winter as a runner, I don’t have a lot of cold weather running gear (although I’m starting to build up a collection). Plus, this has been the coldest winter in Chicago since…. Well…. Right before I moved to Florida. Apparently, this polar vortex is all my fault. Anyway, I’ve spent the majority of the winter running indoors (ugh!) on an elliptical (double ugh!). Since I’ve been focusing on getting my back strong and healthy again, I’ve been using the elliptical for cardio to lessen the impact on my body. I can say that it’s paid off. I ran the whole course without the run/walk intervals I had been using the last couple of years. I actually completed the course with a much better time than I thought I would. Of course, I also finished the course thinking about what I could’ve done differently to be just a little bit faster. And that’s why I love this sport. It pushes me to be better and not just physically. It forces me to not be complacent. It stretches me to reach my full potential. It encourages me to be the best me possible. Run on, my friends.
Words from the Long Run 