Keep the faith

I can’t think of any other outdoor sport other than long distance running that is as much bereft of glamour. Forget glamour, barring a few events such as Olympics, it is hard to even find sustained audience and spectators for running events. Even if they do, spectators don’t stay the full course unless they are running with you. J

Long-distance runners are also not the highest paid athletes. In a survey done by ESPN, Soccer, Basketball and Baseball are the top 3 money-spinners globally. Cricket is the fourth highest. Running ranks low in the ranks. If any consolation, runners earn a little better than road cyclists and sumo wrestlers.

So, if it ain’t glamorous or money-spinner why would anyone want to take up running ? The only reason, I conclude, anyone would put themselves through so much pain is probably akin to devotion – spiritual, religious, whatever you call it. There is no logic or reason. And, once you get indoctrinated into this religion it is hard to give up.

Personally, the day I don’t run I feel utterly miserable and groggy at least till midday, my coffee in-take quadruples for that is the only way I kick my system into action. Even then, and probably because of caffeine in the system, sleep that night does not feel as tight.

A number of fellow runners share similar stories. “Gives me personal satisfaction” is the most common answer when asked why must they run every day. The other phrase I’ve heard frequently and personally subscribe to is that “running is meditative”.

The following couplet from Sufi Saint Hazrat Shah Niaz probably sums up the relationship between a runner and his faith:

Ishq mein tere koh e gham, sar per liya jo ho so ho

Aish on nishat e zindagi chor diya jo ho so ho

A boulder of pain I lift in love with glee

Come what may, may what comes

Life of pleasures, luxuries, I forsake

Come what may, may what comes

As with anything else running grows on you over time. So if you are a wannabe runner, or just starting, or even a running veteran - Keep the faith!