Embrace the Burn: Why Doing Hard Things Makes You a Stronger Runner (and Human)

That face you make when you wanna stop running and drink that beer

The air is getting crisper, the leaves are starting to turn, and that unmistakable buzz of fall road race season is just around the corner! Whether you're a new runner lacing up for your first 5K or you're dusting off your running shoes after a hiatus, this time of year brings a renewed sense of excitement and, let's be honest, a little bit of apprehension.

Lately, the topic of "doing hard things" seems to be everywhere – in podcasts, social media, and conversations among friends. And while it might feel like a trending topic, for us runners, it's a timeless truth, especially as we gear up for those autumn challenges.

Running, at its core, is about doing hard things. It’s about pushing past comfort, quieting that little voice that tells you to slow down, and discovering what you're truly capable of. And here’s the beautiful secret: that's where the magic happens.

The Uncomfortable Truth (and Its Incredible Reward)

Think about those moments in a run:

• The first mile after a break: Your legs feel heavy, your lungs are working overtime, and every step feels like a monumental effort.

• The final stretch of a tempo run: Your pace is quick, your breathing is labored, and you're questioning all your life choices.

• That daunting hill that just keeps going: It stretches before you, a wall of incline demanding every ounce of your will.

These are the "hard things." They're uncomfortable, they demand focus, and they can feel incredibly challenging in the moment. But when you push through them, what do you gain?

Strength you never knew you had.

When you consistently choose to do the hard thing – whether it's showing up for that early morning run, pushing through the last mile, or tackling a longer distance than you thought possible – you're not just building physical endurance. You're forging mental fortitude. You're teaching yourself resilience. And you're proving to yourself, over and over again, that you are stronger than you think.

Why Now is Your Time

With fall races on the horizon, this is the perfect opportunity to lean into the concept of "doing hard things."

• For the New Runner: Your "hard thing" might be simply committing to three runs a week, or running for 20 minutes straight without stopping. Every step you take is building a foundation, and every challenging moment overcome is a victory. Don't shy away from the struggle; embrace it as part of the learning process.

• For the Returning Runner: You know the feeling. You remember the fitness you once had, and getting back there can feel like an uphill battle. Your "hard thing" might be letting go of past expectations and celebrating where you are now, while consistently showing up to rebuild your mileage and speed. Trust the process, and remember how far you've come before.

Beyond the Finish Line

The lessons learned from doing hard things in running extend far beyond the pavement. That grit you develop, that ability to push through discomfort, that unwavering self-belief – these are superpowers that will serve you in every aspect of your life.

So, as you look ahead to the training runs and race days of this fall season, I encourage you to shift your perspective. Don't dread the hard things; seek them out. Welcome the challenge. Lean into the burn. Because on the other side of that discomfort lies a stronger, more confident, and more capable you.

Let's do hard things, runners. Let's grow, let's push, and let's achieve incredible things this fall.