What do you think about when you run?

Running for me is therapy.  As much as running keeps my weight in check and my blood pressure normal, I live for those times when my mind goes totally free.  Those days and experiences keep me running even when my spirit is weak.

Having said that, I've also found that while running while my mind is free, lots of things cross my mind.  It's a cliche I know but I do solve all my problems while running.  Sometimes I think about work-related challenges, other times it's family.  Always it's a personal conversation in my head with no critics or judge.

So what do I think about while running?  Here are some of the recurring topics:

1. What the hell am I doing with my life?  I've just hit the double nickle, 55 and while running recently this has been a recurring theme: What I've done so far and what else I can do.  Other than the odd 'Mistake' earlier in my life, I have generally been blessed with a fantastic life.  Yes there have been setbacks but I've enjoyed great kids, fabulous wife, supportive family and friends.  But what's next...
2. Will this be the day I no longer run?  Over the past 3 years I've had some running injuries that for the first time in my 30 years of running have seriously threatened my ability to keep running.  I like cycling, am a strong swimmer but I hate the thought of not running.
3. Do I look like a runner?  True confession:  I cannot pass a window or glass store-front and not sneak a look at my form.  Most times I am disappointed...it looks like I'm shuffling not running.  The feeling passes quickly though...I am running!
4. What's my next pair of running shoes?  I am immediately disenchanted with my running shoes after my first run in a new pair.  Talk about short-term love!  I've had more success with the Puma Faas 500's that I ran in for a couple of years but generally I am always looking at new running shoes.  Sally hates it that I can't pass a store selling running shoes without stopping in.  Wait...make that any store selling shoes!
5. If I stop during a run was it a good run?  Traffic lights and stop lights don't count.  Most times because I'm running so early in the morning when traffic is light I don't stop.  Shhh...don't tell anyone.

That's it, that's all.  Truthfully though, I'm never sure what will pop into my mind when I head out for a run.  That's why I run.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

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I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013.  My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31.  My planned races in 2013 include:

1. The Sporting Life 10K, May 12
2. The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
3. The Reggae Marathon, December 7.  

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.