I saw Robin Harvie giving a talk at the Sheffield Literary Festival. I didn’t manage to buy his book that day, but was bought it for Christmas.
I run a fair bit, but I’ve never taken the time to consider why. Just for the last few years, I have, and in the back of my mind I put that down to having a very desk based job, when I’m quite an active person.
Why We Run is written by a runner, as he goes from being a marathon runner to taking on ultra marathons and the Spartathlon. In truth, before I saw Robin Harvie’s talk, I didn’t even know such things existed, for me a marathon is definitely enough. So this was a bit of an eye opener. Reading about all of the training was grimly fascinating, though one of the things I really liked about the book is that the reader is largely spared the seriously gory details. It must be pretty tempting to put all of those in, as I know how much I like to share tales of running injuries.
It’s a very broad book, referencing a whole host of runners and athletes, explorers, and the history of running as a discipline. As you would expect, it’s also a very personal story, told with a light tone which doesn’t feel too self reflective.
The main thing that I took from the book is that running is different for everyone. I’m pretty sure I’ll never get further than a marathon, and this year I’m only planning a few half marathons. But I didn’t feel belittled by reading this – I still think running a marathon was a huge achievement for me. It has given me chance to pause and reflect, and to consider why I run. The book refers a lot to nature, and being closer to your surroundings. With spring approaching I’m going to keep this in mind as the days get lighter and I get out running in the countryside a bit more.
