"Running Naked"; Runner's World

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.