"Takbuhan Sa Lawa"

May 10, 2009 marked the preliminary practical examination for the PE 2 running class. It was a highly anticipated event for running class students, because it tested their endurance and patience, and most importantly the application of whatever they learn during the course of their study,

I really did not feel like running on that day, because I was so tired and I badly have to sleep due to the tiresome event that was the field trip for the Humanities 2 class the previous day. But since the PE 2 run was required, I had to condition myself and try to give my very best.

We were at the venue so early and we had to wait quite long before the event started. So many speakers and sort of too long a program and it became a bore already that all the excitement faded away. It was a good thing that an aerobics group warmed us up and that brought back the excitement and rush of the event. The aerobics really surprised me, because I never thought that I would experience it in this trip. The steps were designed to move supposedly the whole body, and to awaken us. It really did awaken us, but the warm up exercises we had in class is much appropriate, I believe, because the running exercises did not feel painful afterwards unlike in the aerobics warm up, where there were few leg exercises.

What I enjoy most about the running sport is that it relates my physical strength and mental prowess. It trains me to be more patient as I aim to reach the finish line, and it builds my competence more as I try to compete with fellow runners. Seeing other passionate runners sweat their hearts out inspires me to go on with this sport and to exercise more frequently. Through this sport, and this event, I realize how important physical wellness is and I plan to materialize the running lessons I know for me to have a healthy life and for me to improve my physical capacity, because it strengthens my ability to maintain stability under pressure.

Running was a challenge for me, because I was so tired and I was very sleepy that I could barely focus. More so, I was not able to have my breakfast and that made me a bit dizzy. I was excited to run, but I was physically unprepared. I had a good start, and I felt my body rushing in with the desire to run. I was kind of fast at first, but I suddenly felt my legs got so hot and it affected my running. I paused and walked for a moment so as to not force my legs. I ran again and each time I did my legs ached. So I just walked for some distance.

In general, I applied brisk walking and the long, slow run. I did the long, slow run to ensure that I covered enough distance for a qualified time and so as to not force my muscles. Whenever I felt my legs ached, I did some brisk walking to relax for a while and regain strength to run again. It had only been less than a month since I started this running class, but in this short period, it feels as though I can endure running for distance without being short of breath. Although there are times when I do not feel conditioned, there are also plenty of times when it feels like I have been practicing the running sport for so long.

After the race, we were given the opportunity to attend the brief discussion brought to us by a mobile running clinic. The speaker, who was obviously a healthy living enthusiast, discussed the phases before a runner could achieve the desirable peak shape. I thought that running could be done by any means, but I learned in the discussion that a medical clearance is the most basic tool a prospective runner should have for him not be bothered by any physical difficulty. A doctor’s medical advice is truly very important. He was also able to relate the other phases in achieving the peak shape. The best phase I consider is the stage where the runner has to build up his character and develop speed. A good runner must have a character and that includes his desire to be excellent in this field, and he must exert effort in practicing and training for speed to be developed. Speed for me is a truly magical element, because this could dictate whether a runner would win or not.

The speaker also mentioned a striking message, and that is to consider whether we would pursue a career in running or just simply back out. He even congratulated us, because we did not only win when we were announced first placers, but we also win when the fact that we have finished the race.

Before, I used to have difficulty even in walking for some distance. I grasp for air and my muscles were very painful afterwards, but through this running class, I was taught the basics and the essentials in running and that made me understand the difference between running for fitness and running for nothing.