Runner Leana

...sometimes with a little swimming and biking thrown in...

Why I Run…and swim…and bike

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Why I RunDo you ever have those days where you wonder what you are doing?  What is your motivation to get out of bed at o’dark thirty when you’d rather sleep just a little bit longer?IMG_8816

What gets you out the door when the weather is sub-optimal?IMG_8551_2

I’ve mentioned before that I was not an athletic kid and running and triathlon is something that I’ve discovered later on in life.  It is amazing how something that I hated so much has now become such a big part of my life.

I run because I get to explore my hometown on two feet and marvel in its beauty.  I run because it often gives me the feeling that life at that very instant is perfect.IMG_0981

I ride my bike because it allows me to see the beauty around me, just at a faster speed than by running.  I ride because there is something so gratifying about making it to the top of a big climb and knowing that it was your own strength and mental tenacity that got you to the top.IMG_7005

I swim because there can be something peaceful about being alone with your thoughts and gliding through the water.  I swim because on those days when everything clicks and you can really feel your pull in the water you start to feel like you might actually be getting it!  I’ve also had a chance to swim in some pretty awesome pools as well.  The Bondi Iceberg Club in Sydney was just amazing!

swimming at the Bondi Iceberg Club was a pretty awesome experience too

I often think about what it is that draws me back to Ironman.  There is no feeling in the world like the cheers you get from all of the spectators on race day.  Crossing the finish line of an Ironman has to be one of the most gratifying and sweetest feelings.  You push your body to the absolute limit…you question whether you can go on…and when you are finally done you forget how much it all hurt as you raise your arms in triumph.0770_084139

I also keep coming back to Ironman because I believe it is a riddle I have not solved yet.  I feel like I have so many opportunities for improvement…from improving my nutrition and pacing on the bike, to figuring out how to run that marathon at the end of the day to figuring out the mental tricks I need in my toolbag to keep moving forward.  I think a lot about that next Ironman and how my goal for this year ties into it.  Having that drive to improve, to get faster, to push myself just a little bit harder is what gets me out the door.IMG_0696

Why do you run?  I am once again linking up with MCM Mama, My No Guilt Life and Run the Great Wide Somewhere for Tuesdays on the Run!Tuesdays on the Run

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Comments

  3. 5

    I loved this! I need to spend more time on my bike – it is a lot of fun! And I agree – when it comes to racing, there’s always room for improvement and to learn more about yourself!
    Janelle recently posted…Why Do I Run?My Profile

  5. 9

    I run for so many reasons, but this past weekend it hit me that the reason I get out there week after week, is when I run I feel like the best version of me. I’m at peace, happy, and doing something I really love. Was neat to read your reasons for why you bike and swim. You triathletes are inspiring!!
    Carmen recently posted…Know Yourself (Running Edition)My Profile

  6. 11

    I love this post! I didn’t link up with Tuesdays on the Run but am loving reading some of these. So motivating. I haven’t done a full Ironman but I have done a half and the feeling was incredible. I hope to do a full someday when I have more training time!
    Cynthia recently posted…A Swim Bike Run Weekend UpdateMy Profile

  7. 13

    Love all of these reasons! I swear if I ever do a tri, it’s going to be because you inspired me! 🙂 Thanks for linking up with us today!

    • 16

      Thank you so much for your comment! I’m in awe of you though…back to back marathons is something I can’t comprehend and I know you are going to rock it!
      Runner Leana recently posted…Last week!My Profile

  10. 19

    I couldn’t focus on anything else other after seeing that gorgeous pool !!!
    We spent a lot of time on Manly beach but after that photo, I wish we had gone to Bondi too.
    Smitha recently posted…Boston Marathon 2015My Profile

  11. 21

    Long time reader and first time commenter here (been reading Runner Leana since you the HBBC a couple years ago), but I just wanted to say I find you very inspiring, Leana. There are plenty of blogs about triathlon and Ironman training, but it is so inspiring to see someone go for it who has a full time job and a lot of other commitments… managing scheduling Ironman training around a 9-5 is something I can only aspire to.

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