10 Commandments {of running}

I've had running on my mind lately.  I mean, more than usual.  I'm at the high end of marathon training, and on the verge of a taper.  But not before mixing in a little race this weekend.  I'm super excited to Rock the Parkway on Saturday... and hoping and praying for a new PR, despite the hills.

With this in mind, I thought I'd share with you a list of the 10 Commandments for Runners.  I've seen this floating around and it always makes me smile.  We runners can be so serious sometimes.  News Flash;  sometimes I break the rules.  Shhh... don't tell.

TEN COMMANDMENTS FOR THE RUNNER

1.  Thou shall not compare thyself to other runners.  A mile is a mile.

Psssshhhh... I wouldn't be the runner I am today if it weren't for comparing myself to other runners.  I'm perfectly happy with myself and my times, until I see someone better.  Competition suits me.

2.  Thou shall never say, "I am not a runner."  If you run, you are a runner.

I totes follow this one.  I identify myself as a lot of things; teacher, bad driver, crazy dog lady, runner.  Running is part of who I am!

3.  Thou shall not skimp on sleep.

I think I get plenty of sleep, but I'd still love more.  Ideally I'd like a nap every day.  That isn't happening.

4.  Remember the "rest day" and keep it holy.

Sometimes I accidentally take too many rest days.  Oops.

5.  Honor thy muscles and thy "aches and pains" and do not push through an injury.  Runners are not invincible.

Lucky for me I haven't had to deal with this in awhile.  I do a lot to prevent injuries.  So far so good.

6.  Thou shall not forget to hydrate.

Duh.  I drink a lot.  And I'm not just talking about wine.

7.  Thou shall not commit the sin of wearing cotton; especially on race day.

Oh no.  I only wear cotton for comfort, not for running.  I do remember my early days of running.  I had a lot of chafing because I had no idea what to wear. 

8.  Thou shall not ignore thy shoes.  Get properly fitted and check for wear often.

I so follow this one!  I get new shoes at least twice a year.  And now that Garry Gribbles is giving me a 20% discount for being a track coach (score!) that may have to move up to 3 times a year!

9.  Thou shall not get stuck in a rut, but will vary thy running by switching up elevation, distance, and pace.

Meh.  I follow my plan and just run where ever the spirit moves me to.  And sometimes I get lost.

10.  Thou shall not covet thy neighbor's medals. 

Huh?  Why would I want someone else's medals?  Maybe I'm off my rocker on this one, but I'd like to get rid of my own medals.  What on Earth am I supposed to do with those things?  Maybe I'll start wearing them instead of a scarf or necklace.  I'm such a trend setter.