"That pain will go away, it is just a cramp, I will be fine," are thoughts that continuously went through my head in the midst of my running during 2015. I was on track to do something I had never thought was possible: run one thousand miles in a year. With the opportunity to get closer to completing a goal of 100 career races (two of them must be full marathons), I was having a career year that had me excited about where running has taken me in such a short time. Up into that point I had not experienced an injury. I kept feeling something but of course I would just ignore until I could not anymore. I faced the reality that I had my first 'running' injury. The hamstring! I am not a sprinter, so how could I possibly have a hammy issue? I finally came to grips and realized that I needed to rest. During my off time from running, I decided to do TRX to help strengthen my core and for me to focus on weak area. I found enjoyment in not running. It became easy to not do a 5am run. Not a good sign. When would I start running again?
After taking about five weeks off I was looking to get back into running. Before being hurt it was a no-brainer to go out and just run. Post injury my mind was not fixed with the idea of just going for a 'run' anymore. I had to re-train the brain but it was a more difficult task than imagined. It went from my alarm going off at 4:15am and getting up only to decline to just run in the evening. I was playing myself mentally but the results were not in my favor. I got to thinking, “what can I do to get myself back into running”. February was just a few days away. In December 2014, I set out to run a 5k a day for the month. I came up a day short of my goal, I ended up running 30 out of 31 one days. It kept me motivated and with a purpose to pound the pavement daily. So, fast forward back to January ‘16, I decided that to get back into the running spirit that I will do a 5k-a-day in February while honoring my heritage during Black History Month. February meant the rebirth of my running as well as paying homage to those who came before me.
Quick history lesson on Black History Month: Black History Month is celebrated in the US, Canada, and UK (US/Canada: February, Uk: October). It began as just a week, but become a month long celebration in 1976. February is a great time to reflect on all that is black history which is a major part of US history. I take the time to recognize those who made major contributions to the human race by volunteering, protesting, fighting for equality, for those who wanted change. The torch has been passed down through generations and I feel that I would let the dream die if I did not do my part to live out the dreams of the fallen. The challenge seemed very appropriate for what the month of February means.
I write this as I have completed 26 out of 29 days (leap year gives me an extra day!). There were days where I just didn’t feel like hitting the pavement for a run, but once out it was clear to me why I was challenging myself. It has been a great feeling being able to throw the sneaks on and head out the door and knowing that the love for running is still there. The rest was well worth the wait. Each day I am motivated by the stories and legacies of those who came before me. I am hoping this challenge leads to other monthly challenges that will help motivate me into reaching new heights. For I know tomorrow brings another 5k, but I am not sure what March will bring. What’s next?
Karura Forest Nairobi Kenya
