Henley was born nearly 3 years ago. If you read a previous post, you’ll know I create a pro/con list before big decisions. On the pro list was this new pup could eventually be my running partner. Spending time with him while doing one of my favorite activities has created a stronger bond. His approach to running has taught me more than I imagined.
Companionship: Henley and I are connected at the hip. I try to take him with me as much as I can. I typically let him lead the way , but he looks back regularly – 1. To make sure I’m still alive. and 2. When do we get to turn around/can we keep going? He gets the go ahead to keep forging.
Run off of feel: Running with Henley is always a surprise. Our paces vary from what feels like a dead sprint to a nice trot. After he was neutered, he was on exercise restrictions. His come back mile was 7:21! The next day he was over running after 1/10th of a mile. I don’t force him to run if he doesn’t want to. However, he forces me to run when I do not want to 🙂 He sits in the middle of the trail or tugs at the leash when he has had enough. Those days, I change it up to make sure he still gets his exercise. (Think cross training)
Explore the environment: Henley is so in tune with his surroundings, except for listening to me, because he is truly enjoying the run and being out in nature. When it is windy, lil buddy lets his ears catch wind and I can tell he feels more free and happy than he does on any other day. Some days he chases squirrels or tries to eat toads until I gently remind him other animals are our friends.
Enjoy the process: There are days when I’m sure he is tired and or/sore, yet he still comes with me. He comes home, knows it is breakfast time and he gets extra treats on run days. Who doesn’t love rewards?
He has taught me that some run days a +1 is more enjoyable and fulfilling. Running off feel has many benefits and takes the pressure out of hitting certain paces and specific distances. Embrace nature and experience your surroundings. There is something peaceful about hearing your feet hit the gravel that you miss if you opt to always run on a treadmill or with an electronic device. There will be hard days and easy days. Days where you hurt. Days where your legs are full of life. Either way, trust the process. Enjoy that your body is alive and responding. Regardless of what the day holds, my most important reminder is moving should never be taken for granted.
Cheers!