Possibly seemingly contrary to the path I've chosen with my
training and coaching, I would say one of the best things your can do for
yourself as a runner is to surround yourself with like-minded people.
That is not to say everyone should run along to their
nearest running club - some people thrive outside traditional structures. But a group of people to share the training
load with can lighten that load considerably.
The banter (good and bad) within a group can be a great driver
and motivator. As well as encouragement, it can be necessary to stay grounded
when the Ego starts running away with itself. Your training buddies can always
be relied on for that! However, within your group there is possibly one or two
that are your biggest training asset.
This entity is so precious it is worth more than solid Gold. I'm talking about the Cheerleader.
These people are relentlessly positive about your training.
They’ll seemingly whoop for joy when you have a good session, drag you up by the
shoulders when things seem to go badly and seem to have never-ending armfuls of
expectation and optimism when it comes to your future.
It takes a while (well it’s taken me a while) to realise
that this praise is sincere and heartfelt. It’s possible to gain amazing strength
from it.
I've been very lucky to have had (and continue to have) some
great cheerleaders in my life. Of course, it doesn't only apply to training and
sport, we can have Cheerleaders in many areas of our professional and personal
lives.
This post is to say a big thank you to those. There can be
so much negativity in training and sport (I'm looking at you ‘too cool for
school’ crowd). Your input is greatly
appreciated, especially at the times I probably don’t deserve it.
Once in a while, have a look around. Who is your
cheerleader? When you work it out, make sure you thank them.
