Running Thoughts | An Ode to Summer Running
Embrace the heat to become a better runner
I’m working through another training block, trying to build up my endurance for a marathon in S̶e̶p̶t̶e̶m̶b̶e̶r̶ October. And the summer training has been killing me.
It’s 6 AM, the sun is already blazing, and the humidity is so thick it feels like I’m running through a wall. Every step feels heavier, my pace is sluggish, and I wonder why I’m even out here.
It’s the heat waves, the restless nights, and the smoky conditions from nearby wildfires all conspiring against me. I know that’s not true, but that’s what it feels like. On some days, it’s as if the entire environment is working against me, creating the perfect storm of obstacles that make even the simplest run feel like an overwhelming challenge.
My legs are like lead, and my motivation continues to dwindle with each and every kilometer.
But as much as I want to give up and wait for cooler weather, I know that these challenging runs are building something more than just physical endurance — they’re forging that mental toughness that will allow me to achieve my running goals. The truth is, every difficult step taken in the heat is a step toward becoming not just a better runner, but a tougher, more resilient athlete. I remind myself that…