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Running with Rhyno: 15 things nobody tells you about running

Is it spring yet?
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Is it spring yet?

I don’t know about you but I am counting the days until March 20. I can’t wait until the snow magically disappears. And you know what that means – time to pick up the training for those early spring marathons.

In fact my coworker’s partner is running Woody’s Marathon, his first ever marathon on May 21. I haven’t talked to him lately but I want to dedicate this (recycled) column to him.

Here are 15 things nobody tells you about running:

1. When you announce you are are runner or training, Non-runners will be quick to tell you how much HATE running because of X,Y,Z. Blah. Blah. Blah.

2. Running can be $$$$. People lie when they say you only need a pair of shoes. LIARS. The more you get into the run of things, the more you WILL spend. Think gear for the seasons, running watch, sneakers and race fees.

3. Running is a mental sport. If you tell yourself, you got this … you have got this.

4. Walk breaks or moments happen. You’re not CHEATING. Walk to drink water, get your breath, hide the body, whatever.

5. You will have ugly, ugly feet. Calluses. Missing toenails. Blisters.

6. Rockstar moments do not happen every time you lace up your sneakers. You will fail.

7. Your non-running friends and family’s eyes will glaze over when you start recounting your training plan, your eating plan and your racing season.

8. Listening to your body plays a big role in injury prevention.

9. More is not necessarily better.

10. Chafing will happen along the bra line or other awkward spots.

11. Some runners can be annoying. They will want to share their complete race and injury history and their pace times.

12. You will constantly correct people who call you a “jogger” as opposed to a “runner.”

13. Bodily functions – when and where you go Number 1 or Number 2 – will suddenly be immensely important.

14. Nobody looks pretty when they run.

15. Running shoes will need their own place in your closet. (See #2)

Crystal Rhyno is the managing editor of the Advocate. Find Running with Rhyno on Facebook and @CrystalRhyno on Twitter. Send your column ideas, photos and stories to crhyno@www.reddeeradvocate.com.