Runner’s World+ Member: Troy Smith
Troy is a Runner’s World+ member. Join him and thousands of others chasing their goals with day-by-day training plans, expert advice from editors and coaches, and unlimited digital access. We regularly feature members online and in print!
I started running in August of last year right after I turned 50 and signed up for a marathon on a whim. I had some roadblocks early (stress fracture, back problems) but was able to accomplish the goal. It wasn’t always easy, but along the way, I fell in love with running. It has definitely had a positive impact on my life. Not only is it extremely rewarding to set a goal that you may not think is possible and see it through, but I also just feel better in general. I have more energy and I handle stress and anxiety better. It has probably had more of an impact on me mentally than physically. It is a great way to relieve stress.
I joined RW+ because I can’t get enough of the articles and information on running. I read them obsessively.
I run for the sense of accomplishment and the way it makes me feel. The runner’s high is a real thing. I don’t always get there, but it keeps me coming back. I also like the structure of running—setting a goal race and a training plan and following it through as closely as I can.
During the week, I run after work in the evening. On the weekend, it’s first thing in the morning. There is a great route very close to my house. It is a linear trail system between parks. Our “downtown” is also right off the route, which is an option depending on how far I need to run. There are even a few hills that I can use for hill training. I like it because I can run out my front door and be on the trail in minutes. All of the trees also provide shade during the hot summer months,
If I’m in love with a piece of gear it is probably my Zoom Fly Flyknit shoes. I only wear them for races but they are awesome. I also love my Sony Walkman headphones which allow me to store music and leave the phone at home.
Really just to keep going and improving. I am running the Dallas Half Marathon next month and hope to PR. At some point I would like to run another marathon and improve on my finish—maybe in Europe or one of the majors. My ultimate goal (wish) would be to get my youngest daughter interested in running.
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