What I've Learned About Becoming and Being a Runner

I am a runner. For the past 7 years I have consistently averaged about 50 miles a week of running. I have taken a once soft physique and have made it fairly rock solid. I used to wear size 34 pants, I'd be swimming in those now. Size 29 is now where my waistline resides. Running is my muse and catharsis. Without running I would go crazy. Maybe you're thinking about getting into running? Here are a few things that I have learned over the past 7 years about  becoming and being a runner.

In No Particular Order
* The faster you run, the sooner it is over.
* If you want a faster mile time run up hills and on sand.
* If running on the street...run against traffic.
* Spend the money and buy good quality running shoes. Asics are by far the best.
* Running shoes will last much longer than the 300-500 miles the manufactures' say they will. Just change the insoles out every 200 miles or so.
* Never run against the light. If you get hit by a car you want it to be the driver's fault.
* Drivers generally are very distracted people. Before crossing the street make sure you make eye contact.
* Drivers more often than not do not look to their right when turning right onto a street. They will look left until they see that oncoming traffic is clear, and then they might look left (I emphasize MIGHT!).
* You will eventually stop thinking about your breathing.
* Chewing a big wad of gum helps you to forget about tired legs.
* If you're running in a sweatshirt, beanie, and gloves...you ain't running hard enough.
* There is always someone faster than you.
* Some men have an alpha male complex and will get upset if another man passes them while running on the trail. Just run faster than they can keep up to remind them that you are the alpha dog.
* Running in the morning will assure you that you get your running in. If you wait until the evening time you will leave yourself too much time to talk yourself out of running.
* Wear sunscreen. Leather couch skin is not attractive.
* If you're running on the trail stay to the right. Don't be one of those people who have zero clue and walk, ride, or run on the left. It is really annoying.
* If someone running or riding on the wrong side of the trail wants to play chicken with you...stand your ground. Don't be afraid to lower your shoulder into someone.
* Don't over stride. You will destroy your knees.
* When running downhill squat to reduce the impact on your knees.
* If something on your body starts to really hurt STOP! If it only aches, don't be a wuss.
* Try to run on the middle to the balls of your feet. Slamming your heels into the ground will destroy your knees.
* Keep your toenails short.
* Don't make excuses. Excuses are like...well you know the rest.
* Running will melt the fat off of your body.
* Have more than one set of running clothes. Don't smell like a turd that can run.
* When checking out the ladies don't just stare...smile too. You might get a date.

If you have anythings you would like to add to the list please leave a comment. Happy running y'all!