Listen to Yourself

by Cheng-Ling Chen — December 27, 2007

During our Saturday morning run, my running buddy told me about his experience with the New York Marathon last month. He described how at around Mile 18, his Achilles tendon started throbbing. He forged on despite the pain, and with some walking and jogging, he managed to finish the race in good time. After the race, he told himself that his marathon days were over. There was no way he would put himself through another one.

Then a fellow runner offered him a couple Tylenols. The other runner told him that she always takes Tylenols about half way through a marathon. They loosen her up to finish the race. This was her 29th marathon, and Tylenols have worked for her every time. My running buddy told me that he was going to run with Tylenols in his next marathon.

Marathon running has become quite a trend in recent years. What was once an insurmountable goal has been touted as something that anyone can do with the right training and discipline. I am impressed with marathoners and am inspired by their strength and dedication. I too want to stay active and become a stronger runner.

It is important to remember, however, that we all have our limits. Our bodies tell us when we are pushing ourselves too hard or engaged in activities that are hazardous for us. Pain is such an indication. Best we listen to our bodies and respect those inner voices. Masking pain with medication to run marathons is the sort of thing that is likely to lead to problems.

I am all about pushing the boundaries to become a better, stronger version of myself. But perhaps I can do this with awareness. Perhaps I can still feel the highs of my achievement without losing myself to them.