The Human Connection
A runner in the semi-darkness of dawn on a deserted stretch of road, pink and orange hues of early morning creeping into the sky in the east.
A runner alone with her thoughts, plugged into her playlist, oblivious to the world around her, feet moving in an easy rhythm, as a cool breeze rustles through the trees.
—
Running is often seen as an individual sport, enjoyed at our own pace, at a time of day best suited to our schedule.
Over the years, running has gained in popularity, driven in part by the growing awareness about the need to exercise and stay fit, in part by the inclusiveness and ease of getting started i.e. minimal training and equipment, and in part by the rise of fitness tracking apps and social media, allowing us to analyze progress, compare workouts and share accomplishments.
Somewhere along the way, running has evolved into a group activity, bringing strangers together in local running clubs all over the world, allowing easy conversation on long runs to pass the time, and helping each runner re-discover their motivation, in each other’s stories.
Today, our story isn’t about a runner in his first painful marathon, or having the best race of his life. It’s about all of us, the feelings and emotions that brings us all together, to running.
The human connection.
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The familiarity, of a weekly routine with our running group.
Time, location and people, a constant over several months and multiple seasons. Each living a different life and story over the course of a regular day, but thrice a week converging, as if by magic, at a designated start point and time, for stretches and warm-ups followed by a run.
The trust, in our running partners and our crew.
A friend, family or loved one, waiting along the course with re-hydration and food, but no means of communication. Clapping and cheering the thousands of runners who pass, knowing how much each has invested in this endeavor.
The sacrifice, of a precious few minutes lost on the course.
A few minutes waiting outside the portaloo, because staying together will allow much more to be gained towards the finish, than tackling the painful stretch alone. The whole infinitely greater than the sum of parts.
The shared experiences, of long runs on Sunday morning.
Of slumps and troughs when the energy is flagging, and the mind wants to rest. Of strong comebacks, and a quick word of strength from those around you, willing you onward for another few kilometres.
The discovery, of runners at their absolute inspiring best.
Close to the point of collapse, but digging deep and giving it their all, dragging themselves towards the finish, their infectious energy a tailwind for those they pass.
The camaraderie, on the road everyday.
Of waves and high-fives as you pass. Of screams and yells of “All the best!” and “Finish strong!” from across the road. The battle after all, being not each runner for himself, but all runners together, against the course.
The feeling of belonging, of being a part of something bigger than just yourself.
A group to rely upon, and who in turn relies on you. A group who notices someone’s missing, when you’re a few minutes late for stretching. A group which does the heavy lifting when the going gets tough, carrying each other to the finish. A group achieving much more together, than what each one could have achieved alone.
The human connection.
—
“If you are a hero, then you have a formula and that says 100% of myself is nothing compared to one percent of the whole team. And vice versa. 1% percent of the teams is nothing compared to 100% of myself. And that’s the meaning of teamwork.”
- Eliud Kipchoge
Unlock 1.0
The lock-down is officially over, but be aware - the virus is still at large in major cities and several areas are in quarantine. We at Team WCL recommend you step out only if necessary, continue to avoid crowded spaces and practise social distancing while outside.
However, if you are one of those who insist on running outdoors, now that we are allowed to, we have a quick primer for you, on what you need to keep in mind.
Beginner Workout - Warm Up
If you are new to running, and wondering how to get started, we have you covered!
This section will, over the next few weeks, introduce you to the various aspects of running and get you started on the road to becoming a healthier and fitter version of yourself.
This week we start with - Warming Up
A warm-up prepares the body for exercises by gradually increasing heart rate, body temperature, and blood circulation to the muscles. It is usually a combination of cardiovascular exercises and stretches.
An ideal warm-up session gets your body ready for explosive, intense and sudden movements which ensue as part of your sport or run, and reduces the risk of injury.
This week, lets get started by putting aside 10 minutes everyday, for a quick warm up with Nicole Pearce.
A light warm-up can be followed by 15-20 minutes of stretching to loosen muscles and joints. Stay tuned next week for our section on Stretching and Flexibility!
Plank Challenge - Results
Last week, we introduced a plank challenge for you, our readers.
The timings are in! Among the 8 entries we received, here’s the top 3! Kudos!
Vijay Goyal [5 mins 18 sec]
Akshay Datar [2 mins 20 sec]
Ankita Singh [2 min 9 sec]
For the rest of us, we have a new target now! And we will definitely do this again soon! Meanwhile, keep planking and strengthening your core!
Fun Feature of the Week
We’ve added a few more - Race day, Recovery and Rest Day! Let us know yours in the comments below!
Weekly Carb-Loading is your Sunday morning dose of running and fitness inspiration. We bring you race stories, runner profiles and home workouts, to motivate you to exercise on a regular basis, and lead a healthier life!
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Until next week, stay healthy, stay fit, and stay safe!
- Team WCL
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