Run Free
"I like running because it's a challenge. If you run hard, there's the pain - and you've got to work your way through the pain. You know, lately it seems all you hear is? Don't overdo it' and? Don't push yourself.' Well, I think that's a lot of bull. If you push the human body, it will respond." - Bob Clarke, Philadelphia Flyers general manager, NHL Hall of Fame.
I used to look at running as a dread, especially the 'enforcement rule' of passing my 2.4km run during my BMT days. I hated it but I just had to do it or I'll be labelled as a weakling by my PS. I didn't run even after my ORD.
I started to picked it up last year. With a good friend of mine, we started with fast walk. I then progressively increased my speed to a jog, and eventually running at 2-3km non stop. Along with some workout at the gym, I managed to lose a very good amount of weight. From 85 to about 66. You do the maths.
Thanks to some of my good buddies, my first Adidas Sundown 10k Run was an unforgettable experience and definitely enjoyable. My love for running grew.
My plans to climb the Ophir was cancelled due to some royal visit there. So, on Saturday, my good friend and I decided to do a slow run 20km equipped with our small backpacks and Adidas shoes from Changi Beach all the way to East Coast. It was quite tough, having to run with some weight under the heat of the sun. of course, we got ourselves hydrated and considerable amount of rests at some stops. Running along the coastal route was wonderful, especially the the old changi beach where the good old and tall casuarina trees stood. Feels like running in some European landscape, haha. The heat, the rain, the wind and the sea were a mix of coolness experience!
We reached the 20k mark in 2.5 plus hours. Took a shower and off we go for a Javanese massage and a good dinner.
My humble advise to those who wish to lose some weight, running is one of the fastest way. It is one of the cheapest form of exercises. You just need to invest in a pair good running shoe, attire and off you go. Do it progressively with patience and believe. And eat healthy food. Try, endure, it's all in the mind. Even a small amount of weight is able to contribute to a significant health benefit. You'll be amazed of what your body can do with endurance.
It works for me. Now I'm preparing for Army Half Marathon.
You just have to start somewhere.
Every morning in Africa, a gazelle wakes up. It knows it must outrun the fastest lion or it will be killed. Every morning in Africa, a lion wakes up. It knows that it must run faster than the slowest gazelle, or it will starve. It doesn't matter whether you're a lion or a gazelle when the sun comes up you'd better be running. (But, unless you're a runner, you won't understand.)
-Anon
..and remember, Bro joe loves you!
B.Joe
