I promise you'll have FUN and EXCITEMENT . . .

I just read an article on ACTIVE.COM.  Many days I see an entry on twitter from ATHLETIC.COM and don't have the time or the inclination to read the referenced article in its entirety. Today, inexplicably I did.  Titled "7 Reasons to Start Running", it listed those reasons and provided some discussion about each.  It didn't translate precisely to how those reasons apply to an inexperienced high school runner, so I've added a brief discussion that may relate to you as a teen while giving full credit to ACTIVE.COM for supplying the reasons (in bold below.)

1. Physical Health - Imagine waking every morning feeling refreshed and ready to take on the world after a good night's sleep.  Imagine feeling stronger throughout the day.  No feeling the need to put your head on the desk or closing your eyes in the middle of a lecture.  Imagine not catching the cold that's going around or rushing home after school to nap.  

2. Mental Health - Imagine feeling good about yourself, happy with the kid in the mirror.  Proud of yourself and your accomplishments.  Imagine the great feeling of being praised by a classmate, parent or neighbor telling you that you look happy, relaxed, healthy. 

3. Stress Relief - Imagine a fun activity, that costs you nothing, that allows you to escape for a time the rigors and demands always placed on that time; something that provides joy and confidence.

4.  Social Ties - Imagine acquiring a group of like-minded friends who won't judge or bully you and will support you in any healthy endeavor you choose.  Imagine a few dozen cheerleaders shouting for you to succeed.  Imagine being able to pick up the phone and call any number of friends who are ready to work with you and relax when the day is done, other kids you can count on.  Lifetime friendships.

5. Work Toward a Goal - Imagine the feeling you will have in achieving something you thought impossible and how that can catapult you further and set you up to achieve even more. So very much more.

6. Run for a Charity - Imagine the personal satisfaction and pride that you would take from doing something for another less fortunate than yourself.

7. Lose Weight - Imagine an environment where there is no body shaming, no awkward stares, only other kids like you who know they will transform themselves through work that is thoroughly enjoyable.

Why imagine? 

REALIZE this and so much more by participating in Cross Country and Track and Field. Don't believe me?  Ask a kid on the team.  Sure, there is work involved (probably less than you think.)  But the rewards are plentiful.  Boundless even.  Been there.  Done it.  I'm speaking from first-hand experience.  Give it a try.  I guarantee you'll be glad you did.

Practice starts each day at 2:30. Questions?  Text (781-367-8487) or email stevegeo@post.harvard.edu