Custom Running Schedule - AI-Powered Training Program
Published: 2016-03-01 03:18:04
Get Your AI-Powered Marathon Training Plan
Personalized 5K, 10K, half marathon & marathon training plans powered by GPT-4o. Your AI running coach adapts to your fitness level and goals.
Share this article
It has been more than half a year since we started running as a group, and our coordination with other teammates has gradually improved. From strangers from all corners, to colleagues under one roof, to comrades on the same track, I often feel grateful for this chance encounter—it's the sport that helps us get to know each other, deepen our trust, and develop a tacit understanding and connection. It is this kind of team, this kind of power of running and chasing, that has opened a window to the world for me, helping me find the best way to coexist with myself and others in silence.
In a team of chance encounters, the first thing needed is a strong leader. He is often full of energy and firm will, with a great charisma that gathers team members from all directions and naturally becomes the core and guide of the team. All others need to do is follow his command and keep pace. Such a 'leader' is rare and precious; we often can only look up to his various physical qualities, willpower, and professional knowledge, as these are beyond our previous imagination and reach. Under his iron will, we are initially completely captivated and follow unconditionally. This instinct of 'following single-mindedly' is an important driving force in forming a running group. We are fortunate to have such strength.
Next, we encounter a group of 'children' while running. They are innocent, lively, and cheerful, and the time spent with them is always filled with laughter. With them around, we need not fear the fatigue and impatience that accumulate in our bodies from long runs. This 'childishness' residing in our hearts is the best distraction during long journeys.
Undoubtedly, during the run, you will encounter delicate 'women.' They will complain and feel tired, always wanting to give up or take a break, thus often being seen as the ones holding the team back and being somewhat resented. However, they seem unwilling to be looked down upon, and after some struggle, they can always follow at the end of the team, relying on a bit of shyness and guilt to complete the training tasks. They seem to represent the most fragile part of ourselves, the part that occasionally wants to be pampered, balanced, and retreat. We seem to look down on 'her,' but we can never truly shake 'her' off, so we can only play and dawdle with 'her' until we both reach the end of time, then comfort each other by saying: 'It turns out, we can do it.'
While running, we often unexpectedly meet a 'wise person.' He may not have an ethereal demeanor, but he is mostly calm, free, wise, and experienced. Following his pace, you won't feel strained because he exudes composure; following his thoughts, you won't feel anxious, only marveling at the sudden clarity. Accompanying him on the journey, we gain not just a segment of the trip but also a taste of a serene life.
However, the most desired encounter on the track is probably a 'soulmate.' The deep affection of staying together and weathering storms together is transformed into rhythmic, harmonious steps. Every breath is a whisper of love, every segment of the journey is a form of snuggling. Even if the world collapses, you can run unflinchingly, which should be the most comforting and reassuring running partner. It's just uncertain whether heaven will be so generous to everyone.
So many chance encounters, running and intersecting, constitute this life. Those who accompany us or pass by have all left their imprints in the warm undercurrents of our memory. When we look back in old age, we can always feel the traces of their comings and goings, just like seeing ourselves in the depths of time, hazy yet clear, familiar yet unforgettable.