377: Does Running Require Voluntary Suffering?
Sep 18, 2024This week we are exploring the concept of voluntary suffering in running. Is it necessary? Is it helpful? Does it help us or hurt us?
What Is Voluntary Suffering?
Voluntary suffering is the discomfort we choose to experience when pushing our physical and mental limits in running (or in any other area of life). Whether you're training for a race, trying to beat a personal best, or just looking to build endurance, suffering is often part of the process.
As a runner, you're asking your body to do more, to go further, to run faster, and there is a level of suffering that accompanies that. It's what scares a lot of people away from running, but also keeps you hooked in a strange way once you've experienced it.
Here's the interesting thing - suffering is different for everyone. What feels tough for one runner might be easy for another, so the level and type of suffering that you are willing to endure will determine your success in any area.
What do I mean?
Take Kevin for example: he loves running for hours and is willing to endure the suffering of very long runs, which makes him a great marathon and ultramarathon runner. Angie, on the other hand, does not want to endure that kind of suffering, but is more willing to endure short, fast speed sessions, which have their own level of suffering that Kevin isn't a fan of.
So yes, suffering is part of what we sign up for, but it can look different for every person.
Why Do We Need Discomfort in Running?
You might wonder, why should running ever be uncomfortable? Can’t we just enjoy the run without pushing ourselves to the limit? Sure, running can be fun, but if you’re looking to improve, whether that’s running faster, longer, or with better form, some level of discomfort is necessary.
When you're racing or setting a new goal, you’re asking your body to perform at a level it’s not used to. That’s going to involve some discomfort—both physical and mental. Running challenges us to face that discomfort and grow from it. It could be the mental battle of getting out the door for an early run or pushing through the final miles of a long race when your body wants to quit.
How Suffering Can Help You Grow
The discomfort you face in running isn't just about building endurance or getting stronger legs—it’s about building mental strength, too. By willingly pushing ourselves in running, we’re also preparing for challenges in life. When we embrace the discomfort in running, we learn to handle stress and adversity off the road as well.
Many runners, especially those who are new to the sport, find that leaning into the tough moments leads to significant growth—not only in their performance but in their confidence and mindset. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned marathoner, voluntary suffering is a tool that can help you build resilience.
Not all suffering in running looks the same. Some runners thrive on long, slow distances that push their endurance over hours, while others find more challenge in the sharp, intense bursts of speed work. Both types of discomfort require mental strength but in different ways.
Long-distance suffering is more about endurance. It’s a slow burn that requires patience and grit. Speed work suffering, on the other hand, is short but intense, pushing your heart rate and muscles to their limits. Neither is easy, but knowing which type of discomfort works best for you can help you train smarter.
One mental trick that can make suffering more bearable is **chunking**—breaking down a long run or workout into smaller, more manageable sections. Instead of thinking about the entire distance or time, focus on getting through the next mile, the next minute, or even the next water station. This strategy helps make the discomfort feel less overwhelming and gives you small wins to build momentum.
Performance vs. Overtraining: Knowing When to Back Off
It’s important to remember that voluntary suffering isn’t about pushing through pain at all costs. There’s a fine line between productive discomfort and overtraining, which can lead to injury and burnout. If you’re constantly pushing yourself to the point of exhaustion, you could be doing more harm than good.
Unnecessary suffering is pointless and poses more risk than reward. Sure, you can gain some more mental toughness by pushing through sometimes, but is it worth the physical risk of injury?
The goal is to challenge yourself enough to grow, but not so much that you break down physically or mentally. Listening to your body is key. If you’re feeling excessive fatigue or pain that lingers beyond your workouts, it’s time to take a step back and let your body recover.
Practical Tips for Embracing Discomfort Without Overdoing It
Here are some ways to embrace voluntary suffering in a healthy, sustainable way:
1. Set Realistic Goals: Don’t try to leap too far too fast. Incremental progress is key. If you’re regularly running 3 miles, aim for 4 or 5 before jumping to 10. Give yourself room to improve gradually.
2. Fuel and Hydrate Properly: It’s much harder to handle discomfort if your body isn’t properly fueled. Make sure you're eating and hydrating adequately to support your training.
3. Build Mental Toughness: Practice breaking down tough runs into smaller chunks. Focus on completing the next mile, the next stretch, or the next lap. Visualization can also help—picture yourself finishing strong to power through tough moments.
4. Incorporate Strength Training: Stronger muscles can help you maintain good form and endure tough runs more easily, especially as you age. Strength training can make a huge difference in your resilience as a runner.
Embrace the Right Amount of Suffering
At the end of the day, not all suffering is beneficial. The discomfort you experience in running should have a purpose—it should push you toward growth, but it should never feel unbearable or pointless. Running is meant to challenge you, but it’s also meant to bring joy and fulfillment.
Finding the right balance of voluntary suffering is key. Push yourself, but always listen to your body. Let discomfort be a tool for improvement, not a source of dread.
So the next time you’re out there on a tough run, embrace the challenge, lean into the discomfort, and let it help you grow.
Now get out there and run your life!
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