My New Year’s Day run this year was an uneventful affair compared to a year ago, when I fractured my right foot while running down a hill. This holiday season was different. I trained almost every day to rid my body of the excesses consumed over the holiday period.
I took Sebastian, our min-pin crossed with a fox terrier for long runs around Lonehill and Krugersdorp. Our ‘second born’ thinks he is a Rottweiler. His enthusiasm for the road and trails reminded me how much I love to run.
If I look back at 2013, many of the highlights involved running or walking. There were the dog walks with Cate through the bridle paths of Lonehill, crossing the finish line of a half-marathon with my dad (it was his first big run in 20 years), the spirit of Parkrun events, exploring new cities on business trips or reading about other people’s amazing stories. I recommend the following running-related books:
- Eat and Run by Scott Jurek – I started this authentic and easy to read autobiography in December 2012. While listening via an Audible app to Jurek, a trail running legend relating how he overcame an injury, I fell and broke my right foot. I listened to the remainder of the book on my back in bed. Note to self: Focus on the road ahead and don’t get too engrossed in anything other than running and being present in the moment.
- Born to Run by Christopher McDougall – The author is a great storyteller. It’s a classic book that continues to inspire me and millions of people around the world.
- Finding Ultra by Rich Roll – After treating his body badly for years, Roll writes about his wake-up call that initially involved a run that marked the beginning of his transformation into a better person and an ultra-fit 40 year old.
I’ve added Running With The Kenyans, Run Wild and The Ghost Runner to my reading wish list in 2014.
This year, I’m going to priortise running, as I feel it is the best tonic for this very busy life. When I run, I feel better about myself. It’s so easy to do, especially as the weather in Johannesburg is superb throughout the year. Plus it’s a good workout at an elevation of around 1,500 metres above sea level.
If you are thinking of taking up running, just do it. I advise you to listen to your body, run in a safe place and invest in shoes that suit your feet. It’s that easy!
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