Everyone thinks the sport of running is just that: running. But we don’t realize that this is more than “just running”, one does not simply “run”. It is a team sport; one that builds families who train, sweat, and dry heave together. You don’t just run. You bleed and you cry, you sacrifice and you support. Most people don’t see this hidden side of running, but if you’re a runner, you know EXACTLY what I’m talking about.

Ponytails are SO important while running. It keeps the hair from sticking to your face, which is usually covered in sweat – or tears. Who really knows.

Every runner is guilty of not stretching properly. But who has time to stretch when there’s food calling your name? Of course, this mentality quickly changes after a few tight muscles the next day.

I’ve been in races with runners who have lost their shoes, and I’m sure they will all agree that running four miles with one shoe on is not ideal. My teammate also lost her shoe in an 800M race and was 1 second away from her personal best… Moral of the story? Tie your shoes good and tight.

Hurdle mobility is perhaps the best thing a runner can do for their hips. Speaking from experience, hip injuries are awful. Mobility drills on hurdles aren’t always safe either. Again speaking from experience, runners are NOT the most coordinated individuals.

It’s a family.

I don’t think I could stress enough how important it is to listen to your body. Runners know better than most what their body is telling them; however, we don’t always listen when it’s telling us to stop.

All the essentials: shoes, spikes, and your track bag.

Like I said, tie your shoes good and tight.

Harmony in your mind and body is a beautiful thing.

Obviously, running is more than “just running”. It is a delicate and difficult process. This sport is not for the faint of heart; it demands everything you have, every day. But doing it with – and for – a team makes it incredibly easy.