My toddler is a sprinter. I bring him outside and he runs, and runs, and runs, and then runs some more. Occasionally he’ll take a quick break to examine a bug or to say “hi!” to a dog in a yard.
Very rarely does he ever ASK to stop running. Running gives him a sense of freedom. He cruises down the sidewalk without a care in the world, squealing with excitement the entire time. Does he care what others think of him? Of course not! He is running because it makes him feel good.
So what can we learn from this?
Running is FUN! Take a cue from your kids and just get outside to run. You don’t have to buy any special equipment or clothing, (aside from quality shoes), and you can do it right outside your home. Don’t worry about how far or fast you are running, just get out there and do it! (Squealing is optional)
When you need a break, just stop to examine a bug or two. 🙂
I totally agree…kids have a lot to teach us about being free and comfortable. I love to run, but feel awkward…I need to start thinking like a toddler.
I wish your son well in enjoying his thrill for running for many years to come! Thanks for sharing his passion. 🙂
You might check out my book We Are Girls Who Love to Run for more inspiration for how running can spread to strength in all ares of life (not just bug watching, though that is a great one, too!).
OK, when I’m bent over because I can’t breathe and someone asks me if I’m OK, I’ll just tell them I’m examining bugs! Great excuse!!
sounds like fun!
Blessings, Penny Raine
http://pennyraine.com/blog
Makes me think of a Friends episode when Rachael and Phoebe go running and Phoebe runs like a kid… (yeah, I was a Friends addict…)
I am so often amazed by how children can have so much fun by simply running. We indeed must be inspired by them.
So true! Thanks for the clear visual.
I have a skipper, a plodder and a sprinter to chase after, so one way of another I keep on the move.
Cheers
Thank you for the encouragement to make running Fun and not a chore.