It's amazing how different we can feel both physically and mentally at different times during the same run. We live for the magic runs that are effortless from the first step to the last and go on like that till the end leaving us fired up for the next time out. That said, more often we start out dragging, breathing hard and feeling heavy and tired. Sometimes it takes a couple miles for the body to groove in so no matter how bad it starts we can be patient, miserable but patient. Most of the time we are finally rewarded as our heart rate drops and our steps become light ... But not always.

Last week I headed out for my long run, rested and ready to get in a good solid effort. From step one my body went south. I battled the demons for two miles before having to walk to catch my breath. After a minute I gave the run a second try but the body was having none of it. I turned and struggled home, hoping for a change in my biorhythms or whatever. I made it back ready to throw in the towel. I downed a glass of orange juice and a banana as my wife walked into the kitchen and told me if I headed out for another 20 minutes and circle back, she would join me for some miles, an offer good enough to get me to give it another try. I'm sure you're thinking this is the part where my run made a magical turn. Not. The 20 minutes were endless and the final miles with my wife were agonizing but I got it done. I took the following two days off and the next run was a gem, go figure.

Get out the door, this may be your day,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner who admits not all runs will take you above the astral plane ... but are always an adventure.

P.S. - Looking for a chance to set your soul free? Join me this weekend for 3 days of peace, music and running! Online registration is closed, but join us for late registration Friday and Saturday in Pinckney, MI! www.runwoodstock.com