Giving Thanks on the Run: More Than Just Miles This Thanksgiving

As the leaves turn golden and the smell of pumpkin spice fills the air, our thoughts often drift to gratitude. Thanksgiving is a time for reflection, for appreciating the good things in our lives, and for gathering with loved ones. And for many of us, "loved ones" includes our running shoes, our favorite trails, and the incredible community we've found on the run.

Whether you're just lacing up for your very first jog, or you're a seasoned marathoner expertly juggling school runs, work deadlines, and long runs, there's so much to be thankful for when it comes to this amazing sport. So, as you prepare for turkey and all the fixings, let's take a moment to give thanks for the gifts running brings into our lives.

1. Thankful for Our Health: The Ultimate Investment

Let's be honest, for many of us, health is what first brought us to running. And what a gift it is! Every step we take is an investment in our physical well-being. We're thankful for:

• Stronger Hearts and Lungs: The engine that keeps us going, on and off the trails. Running helps us build endurance and keeps our cardiovascular system in top shape.

• More Energy: It sounds counterintuitive, doesn't it? Expending energy to gain energy. But countless runners will tell you that a consistent running routine actually boosts their overall energy levels, making it easier to tackle the demands of family and work.

• A Clearer Mind: The mental benefits of running are just as profound as the physical. That post-run clarity, the stress relief, the feeling of accomplishment – these are all priceless. For parents especially, those precious moments alone on a run can be a vital reset button.

• Resilience and Longevity: We're building a foundation for a healthy future, allowing us to keep up with our kids, enjoy our hobbies, and live life to the fullest for years to come.

2. Thankful for our Running Buddies: Running Friends Are the Best Friends

One of the most unexpected joys of running, especially for those who might have started out thinking it was a solitary activity, is the community it creates. We're thankful for:

• Shared Struggles and Triumphs: From those first shaky miles to crossing a finish line, having someone to share the journey with makes it all the more meaningful. These friends understand the early alarms, the chafing, and the sheer joy of a perfect run.

• Unwavering Support: Whether it's a virtual high-five on Strava, a motivating text before a long run, or a smiling face waiting for you at the end of a race, running friends are there for you.

• Built-in Accountability: For beginners, a running buddy can be the difference between hitting snooze and hitting the pavement. For busy parents, coordinating a run with a friend can be a non-negotiable date in the calendar – a crucial commitment to self-care.

• Diverse Perspectives: Running brings together people from all walks of life, fostering connections you might not otherwise make. It’s a beautiful tapestry of experience, all united by a love for movement.

• The Laughter and the Lessons: From hilarious misadventures to profound conversations on a long run, running friends enrich our lives in countless ways.

3. Thankful for Doing Hard Things: Building Grit, One Step at a Time

Running isn't always easy. There are days when every step feels like a struggle, when the weather is against us, or when our bodies just don't want to cooperate. But pushing through those moments is where the real magic happens. We're thankful for:

• Learning to Persevere: Running teaches us that we are capable of more than we think. It’s a constant lesson in showing up, even when it's tough. This resilience translates to all areas of life – from tackling a challenging project at work to navigating the ups and downs of family life.

• The Power of Small Victories: Whether it's running an extra block, shaving a few seconds off your mile, or simply getting out the door when you'd rather stay on the couch, running is full of small, meaningful achievements that build confidence.

• Pushing Our Limits: Running encourages us to step outside our comfort zones, to set ambitious goals, and to discover what we're truly made of.

• A Sense of Accomplishment: There's an unparalleled feeling of pride and satisfaction that comes from completing a run, especially a challenging one. It’s a reminder of our strength and determination.

This Thanksgiving, as you gather with your loved ones, take a moment to reflect on your running journey. Whether you're a beginner just starting to build momentum or a seasoned runner finding ways to fit miles into a bustling family schedule, remember the profound gifts this simple act of putting one foot in front of the other has brought into your life.

Happy Thanksgiving, runners! May your holiday be filled with warmth, gratitude, and perhaps a brisk turkey trot!