Remember earlier this
week I told you that I did my very first 22 mile run? Well, while on that run I
had a lot of time to think. One of the things I thought about was how yucky my
running shoes were becoming as I slushed around in the snow and sometimes mud. I
felt bad about how awful I had been treating my favorite shoes but then I
remembered this: Running shoes are meant to be worn. They won’t do me any good
if I keep them sitting in their box and am afraid to wear them in in- climate
weather. I need to show them some love, I need to let them do their job, I need
to show them the world (or at least my little part of it)!
This got me thinking
that running shoes are a lot like puppies. It takes a certain amount of
dedication to properly care for both.
Okay, you are probably thinking I am crazy right about now, but hear me
out.
1. Before you even select a pair of running
shoes, you should have done some research and got a proper shoe fitting to help
you find out what a good shoe would be for you. Same is true for picking out a
puppy. You need to do research and find one that you are capable of properly
taking care of and one that fits your life style.
2. When you purchase your running shoes you are
making a commitment to your running, your health, your training plan, etc. When
you pick out a puppy you are hopefully making a commitment to properly care for
the puppy.
3. You have these perfect running shoes but
they won’t do you any good looking pretty in the box. Take them out, go for a
run, and get them dirty! Same goes for
your puppy. Those little balls of joy can be quite mischievous but you can’t
keep them locked up in their crate or cage all day. They need to get out and
play!
4. You need to give them (both your running
shoes and your puppy) a good life. Let them do the jobs they were meant to do. I’ve used my running shoes hard this year, but
I know they are happy for it (or they would be if they actually had feelings).
Just this year my Altras have taken me on runs through Disney World, on the
beach (literally) and on the boardwalk, through the Las Vegas Strip, and on the
Appalachian Trail. My dog on the other hand has gone to the playground, runs on
the trails, goes to the beach, plays with her other lab friends, and swims in
our pool. I think she is just as happy!
5. Just as you need to properly care for your
puppy with Vet visits and as needed maintenance, the same is true for your
running shoes. Check them often. Make sure everything is where it is supposed
to be. Check your tread. Is it wearing low? Could it be time for a new pair?
What do you compare your running shoes to?
Great comparison and so true. And yes, I also feel guilty for taking my shoes, especially when new, into mud/rain/snow, but you're right that that's what they're for!
ReplyDeleteI know, I hate seeing them get all muddy because I value them SO much!
DeleteLove this! The comparison is definitely true!
ReplyDeleteAnyone who has ever had a dog can relate, right?
Deletelol... that's adorable and I love the photo! I have to admit that my running shoes are pretty gross but I guess that's a good sign of them doing what they're meant to do :)
ReplyDeleteI think gross shoes means they have been loved!
DeleteI have a hard time wearing my new running shoes in anything but pristine conditions. The first smudge of mud on them hurts! But yeah, this is what we buy them for, to use...on the road. Fun post!
ReplyDeleteThank you! go get your shoes dirty Shelley!
Deletehaha - this is great. I love puppies... guess it makes sense I love running shoes :)
ReplyDeleteThank Rebecca! I'm glad you enjoyed it!
DeleteI love my puppy (like she's my own child), so I get this completely!! :)
ReplyDeleteI knew pet parents would relate!
DeleteThis is hilarious and I never would have thought to compare shoes and puppies.
ReplyDeleteI never would have either but on a 22 mile run you get a LOT of time to think about stuff..lol
DeleteCute post! I always hate when my new shoes get dirty and scratched up.
ReplyDeleteYea, the first sign of dirt is always the hardest!
DeleteCute comparisons.
ReplyDeleteTruth. But I always compare mine to slippers! As they should be super comfy!
ReplyDeleteLol. I guess if you think about it that way. Great job with your 22 miler!
ReplyDeleteCute, great analogy:) But it is true:)
ReplyDeleteYou know I LOVE this post, right?! ;)
ReplyDelete