is for insight.

Almost all the blogs in my alphabet series have had a hidden purpose: to get you to think about why and how you run, and what you get out of running.

In other words, what insights do you gain from your running?

After almost every run, during my sweaty cool-down walk back home, I do a quick review of what I got out of it—without judging myself. Anything I can discover is a lesson that I can apply next time.

Did my form feel comfortable? If yes, why? If not, why not?

Was I going too fast? too slow? How can I pace myself better?

Was I dressed for the weather? Unless it’s really, really cold, I generally don’t bundle up. If it’s warm, I slather on sun block.

An extreme activity like running can give you insight into how you respond to stressful situations. This is really obvious during a race. If you want to take a really deep dive, ask yourself: What did I learn about myself from this run?

Very important: When I talk about reviewing a run, I absolutely don’t mean that you should beat yourself up if things don’t work out the way you want them to.

In fact, self-criticism can interfere with insight.

It’s much better to assess your run—and yourself—with compassion. Compassion opens up your heart and mind.

I can stand for a lot of other things: integrity, ideas, inspiration, interest. I encourage you to explore your own ideas.

Please feel free to send me any questions you might have. I’d love to hear your thoughts.

AND if you don’t want to miss my next blog on how to get fit and stay happily fit, sign up on my mailing list to get it by e-mail the moment I publish it.

Meanwhile, happy running!