Perusing Runner’s World Magazine’s homepage, I was immediately drawn to two words: “Running Naked.” My
first thought: Where in the United States can you run without clothes? Naked is an ambiguous word commonly associated with
stripping off clothes. In all contexts, only the action—removing
something—remains constant; the object changes.
 |
| Kristin Armstrong |
Kristin Armstrong’s May 23 Mile
Markers column, “Running Naked,” is a compelling read from title to end. As I
read the emotionally deep article, I quickly felt shamed by my initial immature
thoughts. When ordered by a coach to run without a watch, to
run “naked,” Armstrong realized she already does, but for her being naked has
nothing to do with taking off a watch. Every time she runs, she lets her
thoughts wander and she explores a different depth of her emotions.
I relate to Armstrong’s
experience and admire her honesty and apt description. Nothing compares to a
challenging run. Both physically and mentally taxing, running pushes me to the
edge. As my legs churn and my breath labors, my mind slows and clears. There is
a terrifying moment when I realize, no matter how fast I go I cannot outrun
life’s problems or my feelings. That is what Armstrong describes.
 |
| "Try running naked." |
Stripping emotionally is scarier
than doing so physically. It is comforting to read Armstrong’s concurring
opinion. She humanizes her experiences and her feelings, describing them in a
universally relevant manner. The approximately 500-word article concludes with
a hopeful tone and a humorous innuendo: “Try running naked. … Strip off your
burdens, fears and heartache, and let it all hang out.” This powerful column is
one I will save for a rough day when I need a reminder I am not alone as I tie
up my joggers, strip down my thoughts and go for a run.
