Running in the Mirror?

Although my actual training marathon training schedule does not start for another couple of weeks, I have started learning how to run again. Running on a treadmill watching myself run in the mirror is kind of awkward. I have always hated running on treadmill. Running in itself has never been my favorite activity, but at least I was outside, observing the world, breathing fresh air, and avoiding various street hazards. Running on a treadmill in a hot, stinky gym, with nothing of interest to look at and not even road kill to avoid is just not that invigorating. However, when your body no longer knows how to coordinate atrophied muscle groups, it is best to find a consistent surface that gives immediate feed back.

Watching myself run is really disconcerting, but I find that I am able to even out my strides, correct my lean, an improve my posture. Consistency…not always my long suit. Yes, it is just going through the motions which is something I detest, but when the goal is repeating the same motion over and over again, going through the motions is exactly what is needed. If I just go through the motions one time, I will gain nothing. It is consistent, repetitive, and continuous effort that brings about the strength to move forward.

“23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror.24 For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. 25 But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.” (James 1:23,24 ESV)

Are you able to run with footmen? If not…try looking at your walk in the mirror each day and see if your can correct your stride. It might be boring at times, but if you want to contend with the horses, you have to run with the footmen.