Tuesday, August 19, 2008

So That's the Feeling . . .

Today I hit . . . . the zone.  Yes, that mystical (mythical?) place that runners talk about apparently really exists.  Usually when I run, it's a constant litany of checks - Abs engaged? check.  Upper body straight? check.  Chin up, arms pumping (elbow to side hand to side), easy stride, roll from heel to toe . . . abs still engaged? check.  Toss in the pace checks, music critique, traffic awareness, and general environment processing and it's a wonder my mind doesn't wear out before my body does.  

Today was an easy treadmill run and for the first time I just . . . ran.  Turned off the brain and just tried to dial in a rhythm.  And all of a sudden, it just felt right.  My stride felt fluid and effortless.   And I swear, the treadmill slowed to half speed.  It didn't (I actually checked it finally - and that broke the whole spell) but I just felt like I was putting no effort at all into the run.  Pretty...friggin...cool.  Lasted 3/4 of a mile, but even the rest of the run was a really good one.   
  

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