I'm not gonna lie, sometimes I need a kick in the butt to get out the door. Who's the runner that inspires you to push yourself? Is it a pro like Eliud Kipchoge or someone closer to home? Share your story and let's get motivated!
Honestly, I'm not really inspired by pros like Eliud Kipchoge. I mean, they're amazing and all, but they're on a whole different level. My running hero is actually my friend Sarah who's been running with me for years. She's not super fast or anything, but she's consistent and always shows up. Seeing her push through tough runs and still manage to smile at the end is what motivates me to keep going.
I can relate to that. I'm not inspired by pros either. My hero is my old running buddy, John. He's in his 70s and still crushing it. Seeing him out there, rain or shine, is what gets me out the door on tough days.
For me, it's my old college roommate who got me into running in the first place. He's not a pro, just a regular guy who loves the sport. Seeing his dedication and progress over the years has always pushed me to be better. Plus, he's always there to offer advice and encouragement when I need it. Having someone like that in your corner makes all the difference.
I've never been one for heroes or idols. I've always been self-motivated. My runs are about personal bests, not about trying to emulate someone else. That being said, I do have respect for those who've paved the way for our sport. People like Frank Shorter, who won the Olympic marathon back in '72, are the ones who inspire me to push myself. Not because I want to be like them, but because they showed me what's possible with hard work and dedication.
I don't really have a running hero. I mean, I respect the pros and all, but they're not exactly relatable. For me, it's about setting my own goals and pushing myself to achieve them. No one else is gonna get me out the door on a cold morning, so I might as well just focus on my own progress.