New city, new home, now I need a new goal. A goal that feels as foreign as living in a city does for a mountain girl.
Blissfully cramp-free running on a trail in Forest Park after work today, I decided to give more purpose to each footstep. I'm not one for tallying up the miles in my running shoes. In fact, running longer distances has always seemed silly to me, as the sport falls into my cross-training regime. I run when convenience allows, when my kayak needs rest or when my schedule puts me near a trailhead.
Setting off to loop some trails in Forest Park, just before inspiration for new goal
But its time for running to get more credit. Bending around a lush patch of ferns, bouncing over tree roots, pulling in every breath to energize my body: nothing beats that moment.
Thus the 30-mile, One-Month Wildwood Trail Challenge. Self-induced, naturally.
Forget a "marathon." I don't even want to hear that word. Crashing footsteps send imaginary shock waves through my leg joints at the mention of the word. No, my running credit will be gained from the successful completion of one, simple trail. North to south, without stopping. Thats it. Just one trail.
Now you might be confused at this point. How can I run enough miles through the woods to take on such a challenge while living in a major metropolitan city? Well, Portland is not like most large cities. Within a train or bus ride from every point in the city, I can reach the 5,000+ acres of juicy wilderness called Forest Park.
Thus it is settled. My kayaks might find a little more rest for the next month. My knitting project might last all winter. My friends might shake their heads.
For geeky analysis of each workout (both wet and dry) check this out (keyword: smhollings). My new Garmin Forerunner allows me to track mileage, elevation, heart rate, laps, course and more.
