There is a certain discipline to be found in the marathon training’s easy run. On the surface it looks slow. And it is. But do not mistake that slowness for ineffectivness.
Underneath the slow run, things are happening. Essential mitochondria is building in the body to supply much needed energy for the distance. At one time I cringed as my Garmin posted my easy run times. But now I know how important they are to run the distance. Not only that, my body stays fresh to meet the demanding paces on essential speedwork.
I can’t compare myself to those training for a 5k, 10k or 1/2 marathon. All of my training points to the distance. So on easy days, I let them fly by and stay in my own lane confident in what my body is doing for me. I enjoy these easy run days for an entirely different reason, as well. They compare so beautifully with raising a child with special needs.
Wil’s typical peers are the 5k, 10k and 1/2 marathon runners. They move at a much higher speed than Wil. All the races they run are equally important, but differ in their strategy. Wil’s is an endurance race. A race that requires a build-up of progress over time. What may not be as immediately seen on the surface, is not to be mistaken for a lack of all that is building up over time behind the scenes.
So while Wil’s friends fly by at their own speed, we are doing the easy run, building up progress over time. We stay in our own lane, wave at those that fly by, knowing we are exactly where we are supposed to be. Building, growing, strengthening and fully capable of handling the long, winding and scenic road ahead.
Stories of Wil, my son, who has Down syndrome 