As more and more people turn to running, scientists are scratching their heads wondering: 'Why is running becoming so popular?'
Greg Richards of the University of Tilburg ventures a guess: 'People don't want the commitment of a team sport, where you have to be there at a certain time. They dó like the informality of running groups they can join whenever it suits them.'
I can relate!
I can totally relate to the first part of his explanation: I too, do not want to be bound to a schedule, of 'having to be' somewhere at a certain time. That's why I love running so much: all it takes, is me running out the door.
No running groups for me
This is why I did nót join a running group, because that would still mean having to make a commitment. And I feel very strongly that you should honour your commitments. That's why I'm careful not to make too many. Besides, I love to be alone during my runs.
Paradox
Having said that: I háve to run every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Each day has its own running route, and its own time table. I don't get it: how can I hate having to adhere to a schedule, when I have a running schedule myself?! One that I enforce diligently?
Sometimes I moan to my husband: 'I háve to go out for my run, and I really don't feel like it.'
Then he says: 'You don't háve to, you wánt to!'
What do you think: is the growing popularity of running a symptome of commitment phobia?
Running: a sign of the times?
By
Nicole Orriëns
5
Nicole Orriëns
5
Nicole Orriëns studeerde psychologie aan de Universiteit Utrecht. Sinds 2001 is ze fulltime blogger en eigenaar van Professional Blogging Services. Ze gebruikt haar achtergrond om praktische informatie voor dagelijks leven te delen. Nicole is getrouwd, moeder van vijf kinderen en woont op het Achterhoekse platteland. Achterhoekse platteland.
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5 comments
That is what my daughter said to me the other day when I moaned about my 4:30 am run!!
My husband would have just said, "Then don't go."
I agree with this assessement of the popularity of running.
I think people are seeing it is a very affordable way to exercise and get out with others!! YAY
I think it's a mixture of commitment phobia and the pocket book speaking. I know running *can* be expensive, but it really doesn't have to be. If you don't care about time, pace, laps, races, etc., all you need is a good pair of running shoes and (for women) a good sports bra.
I'm like you...I don't like running in groups. Not because of the commitment part, but because I love being alone when I run. I like having thoughts to myself and running at my own pace!
It's so easy to get out and do- you can just walk outside your house and do it. No need to drive to a gym or someplace. And it can be fun at times. :)
Loved this post. I have a running blog too. Funny you mentioned a running group - I was supposed to go to a track work out with a run club, but I couldn't get there in time!!
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