As runners, we understand the benefit of complementing our running workouts with other forms of exercise.  Cross-training works our muscles in different ways so that when we return for our next running workout, we are stronger and refreshed.  A client recently shared an insight with us that contemplates running as a kind of cross-training for our broader lives.

“At the end of my run today, I just had the thought that running has become cross-training for my life.  It is making me mentally stronger and more aware of my thoughts, feelings, and motivations.

“I have struggled with anxiety for as long as I can remember.  I have always run with thoughts such as, “If I was better, I would run faster,” or, “If I had more self discipline, I would be able to keep this pace,” or, “If I was more focused, …”  My mind was being a bully to my body, and I had a constant stream of judgment about myself and my effort.

“As I have started with The Marathon Mind, I have begun to recognize the roots of those thoughts.  Through my brain training exercises, I’m learning to replace that bullying with positive thoughts.  On a recent run, I literally repeated, “I am enough. I am enough,” with the cadence of my stride. Applying what I’m learning in my runs this week, I didn’t feel anxious or criticize myself.

“Looking back, I realize that I was constantly putting a moral value on each step and judging my effort.  Now, I’m able to turn it around and tell myself I’ve shown up and that demonstrates self discipline; then I listen to my body and enjoy the run.  I love pushing myself, and now I’m much more able to do so because my mind is quiet and I can hear my body cues. I think, “I wonder what my body can do today?” and then I do it and find that it is such a joy.  I learn a lot about myself through running this way and recognize other areas in my life that I have similar patterns of thought. It is just brilliant; running is cross-training for my life. I get to learn something new, try it out in real time on a run, then take what works and apply it to my everyday life. There are connections everywhere.”

Do you have negative thoughts holding you back in running?  In other areas of your life? Maybe you need some cross-training for life to strengthen and refresh you.