What Causes Us to Run?
By Melissa Brumer
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to a friend
 On any given day, I may have a different reason for why I run. Sometimes
I run to celebrate the weather and sometimes to spite the weather,
to gain a little energy or to burn off some energy; to get fresh air,
to get in shape- but always to maintain my health. I love running,
and before I started to run on my own free will, I could have never
guessed the many different levels of satisfaction I would find. I enjoy
running alone for the peace and quiet it brings; however, after a friend
encouraged me to enter my first 10K three years ago, I grew a real
appreciation and excitement for the friendly competition of racing
for a cause. And to my complete surprise, I ended up finishing 2nd
in my age group in my first race!
The month of May brings many organized runs in Southwest Michigan for
many worthy causes. Spring is the perfect time to do something you
perhaps never thought you would -- walk or run a 5K, a 10K or a marathon.
You’re probably thinking, “I could never run 3 miles,” but
as someone who has turned many a non-running friend into an enthusiast,
believe me when I say that it is a completely achievable goal, and
actually much easier than you think. Perhaps the biggest initial obstacle
is believing you can do it.
WHY RUN?
The overall benefits of running basically fall into two categories:
physical and psychological. Physical benefits include weight loss,
decreased cholesterol, increased endurance, a reduced risk in almost
all major diseases, and better sleep. Psychological benefits include
decreased anxiety and depression and improved self-esteem.
Plus, it’s one of the most accessible sports around -- all you
really need are a good pair of running shoes, a desire, and a commitment. WHY RUN IN A RACE?
Prior to running my first race, I felt apprehensive about races. I
was convinced of a different perspective, and therefore allowed to
enjoy what a race actually IS. There is a friendly and social atmosphere
before, during, and after a race. People encourage you to keep going;
they help you find the start line- it is invigorating. I realized
I was able to push myself in this environment, and I felt very proud
of myself for sticking to my goals. Having a goal to train for, such
as a race date, helped me stay focused.
Of course there is also the aspect of knowing you are not being completely
self-indulgent in your motivation for running -- that there is a much
bigger and greater cause for running in a race. Most races use their
registration fee to help charitable causes. This year, in memory of
my mother, I plan on running the Komen Race for the Cure 5K which raises
money for breast cancer research and awareness.
Good running shoes are vital. There are many different kinds of running
shoes, designed for different types of runners. The two basic categories
are: cushioning and motion control. It is worth talking to a running
specialist at any of the running stores in our area to help you decide
on a shoe. V & A Bootery, Corey’s Bootery, and Gazelle Sports
are all good options.
May 20th The Komen Race for the Cure
The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation was founded on a promise made between
two sisters – Susan Goodman Komen and Nancy Goodman Brinker. Suzy was diagnosed
with breast cancer in 1978. Before she died at the age of 36, Suzy asked her
sister to do everything possible to bring an end to breast cancer. Nancy kept
her promise by establishing the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation in 1982
in Suzy’s memory. (This information was obtained directly from the Komen
Foundation’s website: www.komen.org.)
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