I have been “trying to be a runner” for a little over six months now. I have only managed to find that elusive “runners’ zone” once in that time. From that experience I understand what it is – a moment (or series of moments) while running when you go someplace else, running seems effortless, your breathing, strides, and speed all magically fall into place, and you feel like you could continue forever.
I know it’s possible, but I have never been able to replicate that moment…
In that moment, I understood why people run. In that moment, I felt like I could be a runner too – and actually enjoy it. In that moment, I got my first taste of the runners’ zone and I have been chasing that feeling ever since.
Here’s what has not worked for me:
- Fast music
- Slow music
- Concentrating on my breathing
- Slowing my strides
- Taking longer strides
- Increasing my pace
- Decreasing my pace
- Trying to take myself somewhere else with other thoughts
- Looking around as I run and observing all around me
- Focusing way off into the distance ahead (this has brought me the closest to the zone)
Each of these things seemed promising, and I remember many of them seeming to be contributing variables during that first “zone” run.
I remember completely effortless breathing (which doesn’t happen too often with me), thinking about my upcoming Lupus fundraiser but not about running the 5K, having nice smooth strides, taking in the nature around me, and being caught completely off guard when I realized I was running.
Where did that feeling go, and how can I get it back???
If I can figure this mystery out, I am positive I can crossover from calling myself a “wannabe runner” to calling myself a “RUNNER.” If that little taste of running euphoria can keep me coming back to running when each time is a bit of a struggle, imagine what can happen if I even have a 25% chance of achieving that feeling?
I could be a running machine!
So, here’s where I reach out and ask all you runners I look up to to share what works for you. How do you find your zone? Do you focus on technique, relaxing, get some great tunes, tune out??? What do you do!?!
I wish I could find that elusive runners “high”. I still don’t know what it is!
Kristin, I have run *some*, but certainly not to the extent that you have. I had always heard about runner’s high, but never experienced it. You describe it so beautifully- I’ve never heard it described so completely and articulately! I love that you wrote about “being caught completely off guard when I realized I was running”…how wonderful that must be! 🙂
Love, Joy
I’m not sure that I’ve ever really thought about it – I just run. I think that if you head out with the idea that you don’t have to run a certain distance or pace or time but just run and relax it helps sometimes. The more “rules” you put on your run the less enjoyable sometimes.
Good luck!!!
I have never been able to find the zone. After years of “trying to be a runner” I finally gave up and determined I just wasn’t cut out to be a runner!!! But good for you for continuing to pursue and the fact that you’ve had a taste of what it’s like means that it’s sure to come your way. Just have patience.
There are times when I zone out (granted I ‘only’ run 2-3 miles) and it is a great feeling. Good music really helps me, actually. Good luck my dear 🙂
-Sammy
I’m not a runner, by any means, but I used to be a competitive long distance swimmer and for me it was all about finding my groove. Normally it was having a good song stuck in my head that had a good beat, but a lot of times I counted my strokes, I would breathe every 4. This probably is totally irrelevant, but it was like once I had my breathing in a pattern it was like my body would just be in this automatic groove.
Also, thanks so much for the comment on Kristin’s – seeing less of me- blog! I would be so excited if you did the shakeology challenge with us! Let me know if it is osmething you are interested in!
I wouldn’t worry too much about finding “the zone” the great thing about running is that you might have a goal race, and that race may have a lot of anxiety around it, but in the middle of the training plan, on just an ordinary day, you may have an extraordinary run. You just never know when it is going to hit you!
Runners always impress me. Not something I’ve gotten into. The idea appeals to me, but the lazy part of me always takes over before I ever do it.
I applaud you for running. I would love to be able to say “I’m a runner”. Eventually I will get there. Thanks for linking up with the Wonderful Wednesday Link Party.
You are a runner, not a “wanna be runner.” Don’t sell yourself short. Every minute running makes you a runner just as much as someone who finds a runners high every time they run!
I started running after I had my first child, almost 5 1/2 years ago. Before that, I played sports, and only ran for conditioning. As a beginning runner, I never focused on pace or stride, or anything. All I did was make sure that I kept moving for 45 minutes. If that meant running 5 minutes then walking 5 minutes, that’s what I did. The other thing I made sure of, was that I stuck to it. I didn’t over-train, but I stuck to my schedule.
Now I run because I love it. It’s my time to relax and clear my mind. I run about 50 miles a week, and I try to cross train to help my body recover and stay healthy. So, from one runner to another, you can do it! Stick with it, and don’t over think it. When you’re able to relax and let your mind wonder, you’ll find your own runner’s high every time!
Oh how I can relate. The best running experiences for me have been at our local high school outdoor track and I DO have to have music.
You and I are too much alike!! I’ve enjoyed looking over your blog!! Keep it up running is hard but sooo rewarding!! I’m struggling right now as well….but I’ve been at the top before so I know there is golden streets ahead. lol
Thanks Kendall! I’ve been struggling, but I know I just need to change things up a bit and get back on track. I’ve had some great weeks/months so I know how good it can feel! So glad you stopped by!