Running is full of surprises. I’ve considered myself a runner for more than two decades, and I’m in awe of the many things it has taught me and continues to teach me. I’m also amused, and grateful, for the many ways that the lessons I learn from running can translate to, and help me in other facets of life.
Just over two years ago I stepped into motherhood, and while I’m still a baby in this lifelong role, I believe running has helped me prepare for motherhood, and motherhood has made me a better runner. Here are some general parallels I’ve seen in both that might resonate with you in one or both capacities. If I elaborated with specifics or stories behind these broad musings, it would likely become a novel that no one asked for, and certainly not fit for this column!
Rachel Smith is a professional runner and amateur mother who is writing this from the blissful, sleep-deprived trenches that come with having a 2-year-old and a 1-month-old. She feels extremely lucky to pursue both her running and motherhood aspirations with incredible support from her partner and their communities. She is also the coordinating editor for this column and encourages people to send their stories to her at: [email protected].
For myself, and probably for anyone who has run consistently for more than six months, running has transformed with time. I began running as a sport in middle school. I continued competing thr… Read moreHigh Country Running: Running as a constant in change
