Last year, I spent considerable time researching training plans and ended up creating a customized one by synthesizing principles that I found across several others. Regardless of whether you follow Galloway, Higdon, or the Hanson brothers (think marathon, not MMMBop), certain principles apply: Build mileage gradually. Alternate hard days and easy days. Do long runs. Fuel them properly. Take rest days.
As I look to resume training, I’m also considering spiritual principles I need to keep in mind. My prayer is that my running will be guided by a verse I’m aiming to live for 2014 and beyond:
Those last three really got me.
Humility. Not pride. Ouch.
Gentleness. Not pushing myself as hard as I possibly can, up to (or past) my breaking point.
Patience. Not focused on speed. Not rushing the return from injury.
I hope there will come a time when we can talk about running with endurance (Hebrews 12:1) and running to win (1 Corinthians 9:24). Yet, in the meantime, running with humility, gentleness, and patience will build a solid foundation for my character and for everything that is to come.
As much as I want to run longer and run faster, I’ve got to remember: low miles and slow miles are better than no miles!