When I first started running, I didn’t really know many others who were into it. It just always seemed appealing to me and I knew that I needed more exercise in my life so I didn’t have too hard of a time picking it up. Since that time, however, I have come across a few people that have helped motivate me and teach me a thing or two about the sport and fitness in general. These people have become types of role models to me and helped to spur me on when I seem to run out of steam on my own.
- The Knowledge Resource. There is a guy in my office that has made running one of his lifelong hobbies. He has done numerous marathons and Iron Man competitions and is still going strong well into his middle ages. He has such a wealth of experience in the sport that I can’t help but learn from him and feel inspired from him at the same time. He constantly tells me of upcoming races and checks up on me to see how my running is going and to make sure that I’ve signed up for the next event. If I have a question about anything I simply have to draw on his encyclopedia of knowledge.
- The Running Partner. Another guy I know shares the same interest in running that I have and has been available in the past for running events and races with me. When I first started participating in races it was much easier to meet up with him than it would have been to go by myself. Large events can be pretty intimidating for first-timers like myself, so I’m immensely grateful that I had someone to go along with me.
- The Inspiring Heroes. Another type of role model that has motivated me to pursue running more enthusiastically are the heroes that are written about in print and online. Over the past few months, I’ve picked up several magazines about running and every one seems to have an inspiring story about a runner with so much passion and enjoyment in the sport that you can’t help but get caught up in it. These are the ones that let you know that anything is possible if you have enough drive.
Thanks guys. You know who you are.
