BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Get Friends and a Funny Side

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about the obvious... it's hot, it's humid, and there's nothing we can do about it. Oh wait... we can complain. But that does nothing to make our runs this time of year less miserable right? All it does is remind us of just how miserable we are. Which is the very reason, we need two things to keep the motivation to continue training through the summer months... friends and a funny side.  

This was something I was thinking about after seeing Bass Pro Ambassador Jimmy Brook's posts on Instagram yesterday. In the picture above, as you can see, Jimmy pointed out the obvious (that the humidity was 100%) and then asked the question, "Is this going to be a run or a swim?" Obviously this long time and long distance runner knew he had no control over the weather so chose to use humor to make it less miserable. And with good reason, humor has been shown to lessen our perception of pain, improve our moods, relieve stress, and increase our personal satisfaction. In fact, laughter might indeed be the best medicine!

Which brings me to my next point. This was Jimmy's next post. After expressing his funny side, therefore decreasing the amount of anxiety he might have been feeling about running in the heat and humidity, Jimmy joined some friends to make it "suck" less. Because let's face it. Summer running sometimes just sucks, no matter how much we hydrate or our attempts to run in the coolest parts of the day. 

Which is the very reason we must find our funny side and then find some friends. This won't guarantee that the run won't suck but it will guarantee that it will suck way less!! And be way less miserable!

So in an attempt to help you with the funny side (you'll have to find your own friends but the Bass Pro training group is a great place to look), check out these 50 Running Puns and Jokes to Add Humor to Your Stride:

Best Running Puns

Early morning runners take the psycho path route.

I forgot today’s workout. Could you jog my memory?

You are what you eat, so I eat fast food.

A looped course is just pointless.

I laugh every time I say fartlek. It’s a running joke.

Runners who enjoy bridges in Paris are in Seine.

Just take it all run day at a time.

Been there, run that.

Pace, love, run.

Asking a solider about his hobbies. Iran.

The cow surprised everyone at the farm by running so fast. I think he really knows how to use his calf muscles.

The barefoot runner said it was all about heart and sole to finish.

I’ve been running a latte.

Trying to get the track team to do trails, but they have a one track mind.

Ring around the track, a pocket full of gel, dashes, dashes, we all fall down!

Eminem 8 up the miles on his run.

It’s a runderful life.

Nuns make great runners because their used to being chaste.

Even after the heart surgery, the marathon runner was setting the pace for this marathon. Guess this is why he had a pacemaker.

Watch out for those Team in Training groups, they’ll take your money and run.

The marathon runner was detained in the middle of the marathon by the police because he was resisting a rest.

Turtle runners are slow as shell.

She said running a marathon was a sole-ful experience.

When the joggers got winded, it was a real breath-taker.

Let’s move on to a few things that I find more enjoyable than puns…

25 Best Pun Running Jokes

Why are cows such great runners?
They have great calves.

What are the best sunglasses for runners?
Race tinted glasses.

Why was the treadmill runner laughing so hard?
Who knows, it was an inside joke.

Why did the runner collapse?
She went run step too far.

Why couldn’t the lemon finish the marathon?
Because it ran out of juice.

Why are pigs so bad at running?
Tight hamstrings.

From Reader’s Digest

What food makes runners feel bad before a race?
Eating impasta.

What to say to someone who just had a PR?
Looks like you had a good time.

What do you call running behind a car?
Being exhausted.

What was the runners favorite class in school?
Jography.

Why did the lawyer with a torn ACL win the marathon?
Because he had the power of torn knee.

Have you heard the joke about marathon runners?
No, jog my memory.

How do crazy runners get through a forest?
They take the psycho path.

 

Why did the marathoner decide to give up racing?
Because it gave him the runs.

What happens if a runner doesn’t wear proper shoes?
They will suffer agony of de feet.

Why was the DJ disqualified from the race?
Because he kept changing tracks.

Why did the gardener lose the race?
Because he took the wrong root.

What do sprinters eat on race days?
Nothing, they fast.

Why did the snowman get a cramp?
Because he didn’t warm up.

Why do light bulbs hate running? 
They could really burn out.

Why was the runner detained by police after the run?
Because he was resisting a rest.

What happened to the tomato that fell behind in the race?
It had to ketchup.

What is a runner’s favorite class in school?
Jography

Knock, knock. Who’s there? Eyesore. Eyesore who? Eyesore from my long run, can we take the elevator?

“How do you know if someone ran a marathon? Don’t worry, they’ll tell you.” This one isn’t a pun, it’s just a classically funny line from Jimmy Fallon.

And there you have it friends. Friends and a funny side can’t change the weather but they can change your perspective. So, choose to laugh at life’s hardships and embrace the heat and humidity. This season won’t last forever as you know. So grab a friend and get out the door for some fun in the sun! You’ll be glad you did this fall when those summer training runs pay off with those autumn PR’s. Happy Running!

Godly Friends Will Get You to the Finish Line

“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” John 15:12 NIV

In an inspiring story published by Canadian Running yesterday, it was reported that Noah Allen, a 28-year-old runner from Prince Rupert, B.C., will mark the beginning of a physically- and emotionally-taxing journey on August 9: running seven marathons in seven days in honor of his late father, Markus, who died of bladder cancer two years ago. Allison will be raising funds for the B.C. Cancer Foundation’s Patient Relief Fund… Luckily, he won’t be running alone. “I’ll have tons of people running with me,” Allison told Canadian Running. “So far I’ve got a list of 14 and I expect it to grow to around 25-30 by the time of the event.” He’s even had some non-runners commit to trying to run a full day’s marathon alongside him. Which is a good thing since having the support of friends will exponentially increase his chances of completing the journey. 

This is true in completing the journey of life as well— a journey that can also be described as physically and emotionally taxing. Having people in our lives who are committed to walking alongside us can make all the difference in whether we stay the course until the end or give up when the race gets difficult. Which is the very reason Jesus commanded the disciples to love one another in the same way Jesus loved them. You see, Jesus knew that they would face many trials and troubles after He left them. But He knew they could continue pressing on with the encouragement and companionship godly friendships provide—because these friendships are held together by a mutual love of the Savior and involve a wholehearted-commitment to one another that goes beyond the world’s definition of love and friendship. 

So, if your life’s journey has become physically and emotionally taxing, refuse the urge to give up my friend. Enlist the help of some godly friends instead. Let them know what you’re going through and you can be sure they’ll come alongside you, spurred on by the love of Jesus, and assure you that you won’t be running alone. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we are to love our brothers and sisters in Christ in the same way that You first loved us that we might inspire them to continue running the race until they reach that final finish line. Help us to love them in such a way that the world is inspired to seek You because of it. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

The Best Grief Counselor

“He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted.” Isaiah 53:3-4 ESV

In a tragic story titled “Michigan ultrarunner collapses, dies during 100-mile Colorado footrace” published over the weekend, it was reported that Michigan resident Elaine Stypula, a sixty-year-old ultrarunner, collapsed on a high mountain trail outside Silverton only three hours after the start of the Hardrock Hundred, a 102.5-mile endurance race in the southwest Colorado mountains. Authorities were alerted to a runner's collapse at 9:02 a.m. Friday, according to a press release from the San Juan County Sheriff's Office. Deputies, along with Silverton Medical Rescue personnel and a Flight For Life helicopter team responded to Gold Lake, a small body of water along the Little Giant Trail east of Silverton. Ground teams were able to drive within a quarter mile of the runner's location before hiking in. Despite intensive rescue efforts, Elaine was pronounced dead at 10:27 a.m. Race organizers expressed their sadness Friday and promised to make grief counselors available "to any and all" in the community at the Silverton Gym. 

And, you know, while grief counselors (those people trained to help individuals cope with loss and adjust to life after a significant bereavement) can most certainly help hurting people navigate their feelings of sadness, we would do well to remember that there could be no greater grief counselor than Jesus Christ. You see, the Savior was “a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief” having undergone experiences beyond what a mere human could ever endure. Yet, “he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows” because He loved us enough to die for us. Which means that not only will Jesus never leave us or forsake us, but He will comfort us in ways that no one else can, helping us to make sense of the things that happen in this life and pointing us to the future that awaits every believer who remains faithful. 

So, if life has you in need of a grief counselor, look no further than Jesus Christ my friend. He is the One who sticks closer than a brother and has the credentials to counsel, console, comfort, and encourage you like no one else can. And the best part? Jesus is always available and accessible “to any and all” who call out to Him in prayer. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for being a God who can fully empathize with our grief and sorrow, having experienced it for Yourself. When we are in need of comfort Lord, help us to look to You rather than to the world. Help us to remember that we aren’t immune to the trials and troubles of the world but that we do have a Counselor to walk with us through all the trials and troubles. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

God Makes our Feet Strong

“The Sovereign LORD is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to tread on the heights. For the director of music. On my stringed instruments.” Habakkuk 3:19 NIV

In an interesting story titled “Why I’m Hanging Up My Carbon-Plate Shoes – At Least Until My Feet And Ankles Are Stronger” published by Runner’s World recently, Olympian Paula Radcliffe said on her podcast that the growing pain in her ankle during the race meant she couldn’t put her foot down by the finish line and afterwards ended up in a wheelchair. She was wearing Nike’s Alphafly 4s, the latest technology. ‘I think the super shoes were just too aggressive for my foot,’ she said… Strong feet are essential. That’s what Tony Bignell at Nike, tells Radcliffe on her podcast. “Super shoes stop your feet moving around, your metatarsals, your toes. You’re kind of put in this artificial position. So that’s great because it makes you faster, but that’s bad because eventually it makes you weaker…’ The writer of the story, who developed a rare stress fracture after wearing the super shoes exclusively, said “There’s a lot of research into how fast these shoes can make you and almost none into whether super shoes cause more injuries. Believe me, I’ve looked. In the meantime, I’m hanging up my carbon shoes – at least until my feet and ankles are a lot stronger.”

And you know, when it comes to strong feet and ankles, Habbakuk declared that the sovereign Lord was his strength and made his “feet like the feet of a deer” so that he could “tread on the heights.” No doubt, the prophet used the imagery of deer's feet to describe the sure-footedness God provides, enabling believers to run speedily, jump effortlessly, and stand firmly on high places in a way that no super shoe ever could. Furthermore, the image of a deer, known for its agility and ability to navigate challenging terrain because of the unique design of their hoofs, conveys the idea that God equips believers to stand firm in the face of trials and to easily scale the walls of opposition.  

So, when it comes to your spiritual race, don’t look for a super shoe to make you fast my friend. Look to the Lord to make you strong, agile, and swift instead. Doing so will allow you to travel the road ahead of you and reach the finish line injury free.

Heavenly Father, thank You for making our feet like deer that we might have the confidence to stand steady on shaky ground and to overcome the difficult terrain that comes with being a follower of You. Help us to boldly go wherever it is you’ve called us to go Lord, knowing that You have equipped us for every good work. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Pursue Work that Means Something

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:58 NKJV

In a story titled “York County runner set to compete on international stage with her four-legged best friend” published by Fox43 News earlier this week, it was reported that Angela Coco and her dog, Abby, are set to compete for Team USA at the 2025 Canicross World Championships in October. Coco and Abby's journey to the international stage began just over two years ago, when they first discovered and set their sights on the international competition that includes the emerging sport of Canicross in their list of events. After months of training and racing, Coco built up a resume that got her selected for the national team, who she will be heading to the world competition with. "I started out doing Canicross with [Abby] for fun, because she was my running buddy. We found an activity [we] both liked, then, once I qualified for Continentals last year, I got really aggressive, started training super hard, and now we made it to Worlds," said Coco. "I first found out about it two and a half years ago. I never knew it was a thing. So, since then, I've been fighting for it, and we got it. It was incredibly exciting and validating, because all the hard work we did meant something."

And, you know, when it comes to putting forth hard work that means something, Paul was very clear that “the work of the Lord” is never done “in vain.” In fact, our labor for the Lord is not only not in vain but it has eternal value as compared to so much of our life’s work that will cease to have meaning in years, days, or even minutes. Which is the very reason we are commanded to "be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.” In other words, we are to remain fully committed to the Word, unwilling to compromise on the Word to fit into present culture, and found preaching the Word at every opportunity— completely exhausting the time, talents, and riches God has given us in service to Him, working to store up our treasures in heaven rather than on earth no matter what trials, troubles, or hardships we might face in doing so. 

So, knowing that only what we do for Christ will last into eternity, let us be “abounding in the work of the Lord” my friend. Let us make knowing Christ and making His great Name known our chief mission so that our hard will have meant something when we leave this world. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that only what we do for You will have any lasting value. Help us to truly understand this Lord that we might not chase after fame and fortune at the expense of winning souls, knowing that to be known by You is better than to be known by the world. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Make the Choice to Do Better to Be Better

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about motivation (after all that's what we do here right?). But first, let's take a look at the meaning of the word as defined by Psychology Today: Motivation is the desire to act in service of a goal. It's the crucial element in setting and attaining our objectives. Motivation is one of the driving forces behind human behavior. It fuels competition and sparks social connection. Its absence can lead to mental illnesses such as depression.

Based on that definition, you can see why it's important to not only gain this priceless personality attribute that will get you to the finish line, but to keep it at all costs. This was something that was on my mind as I read a post yesterday put out by my dear friend Nadine Albrecht, who is one of the most motivated and motivating people that I've ever had the blessing of meeting. But even Nadine has her moments as captured in her post... 

"Had zero motivation/desire to get any movement in. I thought about counting the volunteering I did with my husband at the Senior Center today, but my conscience knew better.

I was going to go to the gym this afternoon but instead I sat in the recliner until it was too late. I was gonna just accept that I wasn’t going to do a workout but again…that nagging conscience.

I changed and laced up my running shoes and headed out. It was a little humid and the gnats were obnoxious but as I was on my way back home I came upon the spot that pushed me to get my crap together 4 years ago.

I couldn’t walk a quarter mile before calling my husband to come get me. I was comfortable being uncomfortable and unhealthy. I used to justify being that way because I was always busy doing something and I was able to get things done… but, if I’m being honest, it was a struggle and I paid for it.

I’m grateful for the nagging conscience because I’ve made the decision that I’m not going back to that person. I may have to adapt things at times but I know better now and I will do better!

So 4 miles done…slow and sweaty but I’m grateful for the ability to do it!"

So where did Nadine's seemingly newfound motivation come from? It came from within. It came from remembering where she started from (see the above photo) and the decision she made four years ago (and one she continues to make day after day) to "do better" even if that means having to "adapt things at times." On a side note, did you notice the gratitude that Nadine expressed? She acknowledged that the 4 miles were not completed under ideal circumstances... they were slow and sweaty... BUT, she chose to be grateful for the ability to complete the distance no matter what. This feeling of accomplishment will serve to motivate her the next time she needs some newfound motivation! Amazing how that works isn't it? We do something we don't feel like doing, we then express gratitude for it, and it serve as a springboard to continue doing better!!!

So, with the start of "official" Bass Pro Marathon/Half Training starting this Saturday with the Recycle Run, I hope you’ll make the decision to get motivated and to stay motivated. And remember... there will be times when you'll have to adapt, times when you'll have to complete your workouts in less than ideal conditions, and times when you'd rather be sitting in the recliner. But by making the choice now to "do better" so you can "be better" each and every day (and to be grateful for every step forward), you'll have that springboard that will propel you to complete the training so you'll be ready to step up to the start line this fall. I hope to see you there! Happy Running!

Jesus Broke the Barrier

“For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility,” Ephesians 2:14 NIV

In a story titled “Beatrice Chebet Goes Sub-14 and Takes Down the 5K World Record” published by Runner’s World over the weekend, it was reported that Chebet averaged just under 4:30 mile pace to break the world record by two seconds… In addition to becoming the first woman to run under 14:00 on the track, Chebet has also broken the barrier on the roads. On New Year’s Eve in 2024, she ran 13:54 at the Cursa dels Nassos road race in Barcelona, Spain. Chebet’s resume is one of the most impressive in track and field. At the Paris Olympics last summer, she won gold in the 5,000 and 10,000 meters, and she also owns the world record in the 10,000 meters, 28:54.14, which she set at Prefontaine last May. Wow right? 

And, you know, when it comes to breaking barriers, the Bible tell us that Jesus broke down “the dividing wall of hostility” between the Jews and the Gentiles by His outpouring of blood on the cross, thereby making “the two groups one.” You see, Jesus doesn’t simply give us peace but Jesus is our peace. Which means the work of Jesus on the cross “destroyed the barrier” between Jew and Gentile and set them on common ground as equals, at peace with God. Hence the reason Paul wrote “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” 

So, knowing that Jesus “destroyed the barrier” among believers, don’t put any walls back up my friend. Regardless of race, gender, or social standing, we are all one in the body of Christ and must treat one another that way if we are to model Jesus’ example of peace to the world. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that believers are one in the body of Christ. In light of that Lord, help us to not make any distinctions or divisions among us that we might be seen as a unified family, connected by our love of You. In your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

God Restores Like Cool Wind on a Hot Day

“Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord,” Acts 3:19 NKJV

After finishing up round 11 yesterday morning (out of 12) of the 4x4x48 event (aka the Goggins Challenge) that has become an annual 4th of July weekend charity event, I began to yearn longingly to be home in the coolness of the air conditioning. Not only had I already completed 44 miles over a period of 40-plus hours, but had done so in the intense heat and humidity of July (running four miles every four hours) on a hot high school track—all while camping on-site with my husband for the duration of the endurance run. To say I was being drained (as were the other participants) by the sultry conditions (and the sleep deprivation) would be an understatement. So you can imagine that my friends and I viewed what happened just minutes before it was time to set out for our final four-mile run, as a gift from God, Himself. As we prepared to start, we smiled as we felt a cool wind begin to blow and felt the refreshing of the gentle rain that soon accompanied it—wind and rain that cooled the air and stayed with us until every runner was done. Is God good or what? 

And, you know, when it comes to “times of refreshing” that come from the presence of the Lord, the Bible tells us that when a person repents of their sin and turns to God, they are converted into a new creation.  This conversion, according to the Amplified Bible, brings refreshing and restoration from the Lord that’s like “a cool wind on a hot day.” Think about it this way, sin not only drains us in the same way prolonged intense heat does, but it creates a chasm between us and God that leaves us wearied, depleted, lonely, worn-out, overheated, weak, and tired. The good part though is this… when we turn from our sin and run back to God, the Lord restores us like a cool wind on a hot day. 

So, if you’ve strayed from the course, and find that you’re exhausted and fatigued by the sin in your life, take heart my friend. The Lord blots out the sin of all those who turn to Him and bestows on them the times of refreshing they so desperately yearn for. Run to Him and be restored. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for promising to restore and refresh all those who turn to You. Lord, in a world filled with weary and worn-out people, help us to spread the message that there is hope for a new life in Jesus. Thank You for being the God who saves all those who call upon Him.  It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Let us Celebrate the Freedom Christ Provided

"For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery." Galatians 5:1

With Independence Day upon us, you might be noticing the many flags on display as you head out for your morning run. And if you've chosen, like many other runners, to participate in a 4th of July race, you might even see runners wearing red, white and blue while carrying it. You could safely say then that most Americans are still pretty proud of that 'ole flag'. I know I am! And with good reason. You see, 'Old Glory' represents the day our country's founders declared independence from Great Britain. Did you know, though, that each part of the flag stands for something? The 50 stars stand for the 50 states and the 13 stripes stand for the 13 British colonies which declared their independence on July 4, 1776. The colors also stand for something. The white vertical stripes signify purity and innocence, the red hardiness and valour and the blue signify vigilance, perseverance and justice. 

Speaking of flags, there is another flag that should be displayed with pride too… the Christian flag. You see, this flag represents the day believers were granted the greatest freedom of all... deliverance from the power of sin. The shade of red on the cross symbolizes the blood that Jesus shed on Calvary. The blue canton represents the waters of baptism as well as the faithfulness of Jesus, and the white represents Jesus' purity. Regardless of their differences in appearance though, these flags together serve as a reminder that we are “One Nation Under God,” and a country that’s been blessed by the Creator Himself. 

So, in the words of John Adams (a signer of the Declaration of Independence) as penned in a letter to his wife 250 years ago, let us commemorate this day “as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty” and let us solemnize the day “with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forevermore.” And might I add… let us go for a run (or walk) as we count our blessings and thank our God for allowing us to live in the greatest country on earth. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for setting us free from the yoke of slavery and the bonds of tyranny. My solemn prayer is that this country would celebrate our freedom every day with solemn acts of devotion to you, the great God Almighty. Help us to be united as “one nation, under God" as we wave our white flags in total surrender to You, Lord. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Live Out Your Deep Purpose

“I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do.” John 17:4 NIV

In an inspiring story titled “74-year-old Duluth runner ‘gave it his all’ after dropping out of 100-mile race” published by NorthernNewsNow on Monday, it was reported that Duluth area runner Michael Koppy, who was attempting to break an ultra running record out in California this past weekend, was disqualified after 30 miles, or 9 hours into the race, for coming into an aid station just a few minutes after the cut-off time. Koppy, age 74, was aiming to become the oldest person to ever complete the Western States 100-mile endurance run. In a message, Koppy’s wife says what matters is the years of training, the countless qualifying races, the early mornings and the deep purpose that carried him to the start line. Koppy says he gave it his all, but that the course was very technical, which slowed his pace. Of the six runners over the age of 70 that started the race, only one crossed the finish line. 

And while the world may view Michael’s race as a loss, I’d join his wife in considering it a victory since he fulfilled “the deep purpose” that spurred him to the start line. In the same way, every believer can count their life as victory by fulfilling “the deep purpose” within them for which they were created… which is to bring God glory by finishing the work He gave them to do. You see, as Jesus clearly demonstrated by his death on the cross, spiritual success is measured by the degree of our obedience and wholehearted devotion—-meaning that we gain victory when we give our all to the cause of Christ, doing everything for the glory of God, no matter the hardships, trials, or pain that we have to face along the way. 

So, in the example Jesus modeled, live to bring God glory on earth above all else my friend. Give it your all to finish the work He gave you to do, aiming to inspire the lost to follow Jesus in doing so. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that You don’t measure success the way the world does. Help us to understand that we are in a spiritual race with a finish line put in place by You. Help us to run with endurance the race marked out before us with all that we have that we might bring You glory with every step and with every breath. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Narrow your Focus to Run Faster

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about speed. Now that the majority of runners are acclimated to the summer heat (at least the morning temps anyway), it's time to talk about thriving rather than merely surviving. This was something I was thinking about on my early morning run yesterday as I donned on a new pair of HOKA's for some speed work. And these weren't just a new pair but a new model! I know, I'm such a rebel right? 

But... as much as I willed my new shoes to make me faster than my old ones, I'm not quite sure if it worked. It did however make me smile as I came across an article later that afternoon titled, "Want to run faster? Change where you look." And of course, I said "Yes I want to run faster!" Which is the very reason I intently read the rest of the write-up published by Canadian Running Magazine. The writer started off by saying, "You probably don’t need a new pair of carbon-plated shoes or a fancy lactate threshold test to run faster in a race or workout. According to a new study published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, simply changing where you look while you run might help you push harder and finish faster." 

So here we go! If this had your imagination piqued as it did mine, here's what else you need to know if you want to run faster...

Stop scanning the scenery

A team of psychologists, including researchers from NYU, Creighton and Rutgers University, found that narrowing your visual attention (a.k.a. locking your gaze on one fixed point ahead of you) can make a measurable difference in how fast and hard you run. The idea is simple: instead of admiring nature or checking out your wild spectators, aim to focus on one spot ahead, and then move that spot forward as you go. The closer you get to your goal, the more you narrow in.

The researchers call this strategy attentional narrowing, and in their tests, runners who used it consistently ran faster and spent more time working at a higher heart rate than those told to take in the wider view. In short: less sightseeing results in better performance. “By increasingly narrowing attention as a runner moves from earlier to later stages of a run or race—like locking in on a target, then finding another after you pass the first, and eventually the finish line—they run faster, raise their heart rate, and perform better,” explains Emily Balcetis, one of the study’s authors.

Not just for the elites (but they’re doing it too)

Across six studies, researchers found that faster runners and those with more racing experience were more likely to use this strategy naturally. The good news is that it’s a learned skill. Whether you’re gunning for a PB or just trying to survive your next tempo run, narrowing your focus is something you can start practising today. This isn’t tunnel vision; it’s more like a form of mental pacing—an intentional way to regulate your effort, without overthinking splits or form.

Use it when it counts

To see if the strategy held up in practice, researchers ran a few short-distance experiments using real runners. Some were told to keep their gaze wide, others to focus on a fixed point—either through the whole run or just toward the end. Across the board, those who narrowed their focus ran faster. They also spent more time with their heart rate above baseline, which suggests they were working harder, even if they didn’t feel like they were. A small shift in where you look turned out to have a real effect on how much you could give.

The takeaway

Focusing your eyes on one spot instead of scanning your surroundings might be more powerful than it sounds. It’s a low-effort, no-cost way to push a little harder when things get tough. Next time you’re grinding through a tough interval or closing in on the finish, try locking your gaze ahead, and you might be surprised what your legs still have left.

And there you have it friends. Marathon Weekend will be here before we know it. Which means if you want that fall PR, the time to thrive is now. So, whether or not you have a new pair of shoes, try these tips and see if you can shave a few seconds off your mile time. Over the course of 3.1, 13.1, or 26.2 miles, those seconds will add up and you'll be rewarded with a Personal Record. Happy Running!

Run from Sin and Run to God

“She caught him by his cloak and said, “Come to bed with me!” But he left his cloak in her hand and ran out of the house.” Genesis 39:12 NIV

In a story titled “Runner beats train to summit of Mount Washington” published by WMUR9 News out of New Hampshire, it was reported that “A runner from Colorado beat a train to the top of Mount Washington on Saturday. Joseph Gray, of Colorado, was among about 400 participants in this year's Race the Cog event. He beat the 9 a.m. Cog Railway train to the top of the summit, according to Northeast Delta Dental President and CEO Tom Raffio. Raffio said Gray was the only runner to beat the train. He completed the race in 39 minutes and 54 seconds. Gray had to run through fog and light rain on steep terrain to complete the run. By beating the train, he got a $1,000 bonus from Northeast Delta Dental, Raffio said. Gray also beat the lead Cog train in 2022. Raffio said beating the lead train to the summit has only happened twice during the event, and both times it was Gray who accomplished the feat.” Wow right? 

And, you know, as this story shows, “beating the train” was no easy task. You can be sure it required every bit of Gray’s energy and effort. This is the same spiritual energy and effort believers need to display when it comes to “beating the train” spiritually speaking. You see, as the tale of Joseph and Potiphar’s wife shows, the temptation to sin in many ways is like a speeding train that can gain on us quickly—giving us little time to react. Which is why we, like Joseph, must be ready to run the moment sin demands we submit to its deadly grip—-and to submit instead to God. It’s then that the devil runs from us!

So, when sin comes speedily to take you captive, take your thoughts captive instead my friend. And then run! This will allow you to “beat the train” and take hold of the prize. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that, through You, we have the power to run away from sin and to cause the devil to run away from us. Help us to take all our sinful thoughts captive Lord that we might run the race with endurance and not get off track. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Let Laughter Fill your Mouth

“When the Lord brought back the captivity of Zion, We were like those who dream. Then our mouth was filled with laughter, And our tongue with singing. Then they said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.” The Lord has done great things for us, And we are glad.” Psalm 126:1-3 NKJV

In an interesting story titled “'Runner's face' and why running makes you look older, according to experts” published over the weekend, the writer said “Athletes benefit from the many positive effects that exercise has on the body both internally and externally. However, there are also some negative aspects that, depending on the sport and the person practicing it, may affect the individual more or less. This is the case, for example, of the so-called 'runner's face'. This is the term used to describe in a colloquial and simple way the facial changes experienced by many regular long-distance runners. These changes are characterized by a thinner and older appearance, loss of volume in the cheeks and cheekbones and the appearance of more pronounced wrinkles.” 

And, you know, while the so-called ‘runner’s face’ might be considered a negative thing, given the benefits of running regularly, I’d say the wrinkles are worth having. As are the wrinkles that should come with having a ‘grateful face.” You see, as believers, we should be as overjoyed as God’s people were the day He set them free from their captivity and they returned to Zion. The psalmist said they were so appreciative of their release that their mouths were filled with laughter and their tongues filled with singing…the same laughter and singing that should be so a part of who we are every day that we actually exhibit dramatic facial changes that manifest in the form of laugh lines and crow’s feet. After all, the Lord has done great things for them and the Lord has done great things for us! That should have us feeling glad 24 hours a day!

So, take the time to daily consider all the ways God has been good to you my friend. Write them down and rejoice over them. And then, with a mouth full of laughter, declare to the nations and to your neighbors, “The Lord has done great things for me and I am glad!”

Heavenly Father, thank You for doing such great things for us! While we were lost in our sin, You sent your Son to free us from the captivity and bondage of that sin and brought us back to You. We were prisoners and You set us free! Help us to be set apart from the world by the joy we show in all circumstances and by the boldness we have in declaring your goodness. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Your Value is Not in What You Do

"Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows." Matthew 10:29-30 NKJV

In a story titled "Olympic runner dropped by sponsor over low social media following" published on June 26, it was reported that Daniel Ellis Roberts, an American athlete who won silver in the men's 110 m hurdles at the 2024 Paris Olympics, was dropped by his main sponsor due to a lack of social media appeal, although he has more than 23,000 followers on Instagram. Further illustrating the sad state that our world is in, Roberts said "These brands prioritize marketing above all else. Being at the top is influential, but if you're at the top and don't have many followers, you're not commercially profitable and your results won't have much value." Roberts ran 13.09 seconds to finish second behind Grant Holloway (12.99) in the Olympic final. Earlier that year, he broke the 13-second mark for the first time with a 12.96-second performance in Eugene. Despite these achievements, Roberts said his contract with a major sportswear sponsor was not renewed. "I know this because after my best year, winning an Olympic silver medal and breaking the 13-second mark for the first time, my sponsor dropped me, and I've had to live off prize money for the past six months. It's a shame, but with the way athletics is going, athletes have to focus on more than just competing well." 

And, you know, as disheartening as it is to think about, we live in a world where the majority of people believe their value comes from what they do and how many "followers" they have. But the truth of the matter is this... we are all made in the image of God and we are of "more value than many sparrows." Think about it this way, there are an estimated 1.6 billion house sparrows  in our world at any given time. And yet not one (did you get that not even one part?) falls to the ground apart from the Father's will. This is the value God places on his children!! And there are more than 8 billion people on this earth and yet God knows the very number of hairs on each one of their heads! This is the great love that the Father has for you and for me.  This means that no matter what value the world has placed on you, you are of infinite value to God. 

So, if you're feeling as if you don't matter today, look up my friend—and remember that God not only sent his one and only Son to die so you could be reconciled back to Him, but calls you "His workmanship" and has prepared you in advance to do good things that He planned for you long ago as well. Is that amazing or what? 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that, as believers in Jesus Christ, our identity is not in what we do but in who we are... children of God, fearfully and wonderfully made in your image and loved beyond comprehension. Help us to not only understand this Lord that we would find our worth and value in You but to spread this message to a world in desperate need of hearing it. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Believers Always Have a Family

“Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” Acts 2:46-47 NIV

In a story titled “For a Change of Pace, Try Running in the Woods,” published last weekend, the writer said “When William Gensburg first fell in love with trail running, he was nearly 50 years old. At the time, he played in an amateur ice hockey league in Westchester County, N.Y., but his injuries were piling up and he needed a different way to stay active. Mr. Gensburg, who had virtually no running experience, started jogging on a leafy two-mile trail near his home. He was instantly hooked and said, “I became enchanted, frankly, with being in the woods doing something at your own pace.” For Mr. Gensburg, who started trail running on his own, the activity has become central to his social life. After going through a divorce and becoming an empty nester, he sold his business and set out on a road trip across the country, planning to visit outdoorsy cities and towns and pick one to retire to. He didn’t get any further than Boulder, Colo., his second stop. He tried out some running groups he found on Meetup, he said, and “The next thing I knew, I had a circle of friends and just decided to stay.”

And, you know, as this story clearly shows, life doesn’t always turn out the way a person plans it will. Divorces happen, health fails, jobs change, and children leave home. Life is always changing, whether it be for the better or the worse. But, if you are a believer in Jesus Christ, you know there’s one thing that never changes… God. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. And the same God who arranges for someone to meet “a circle of friends” that will become family is the same God who arranges for fellow believers to meet “together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people” to become family. You see, while you and I might not always have a biological ‘family’ to support us and to share life with, we will always be welcome in the ‘family’ of God. And this family is everywhere!

So, if life hasn’t turned out the way you planned and you find yourself alone and looking for a “circle of friends," make it a habit to meet with the brothers and sisters in the family of God my friend. You will be instantly hooked by their friendship and bonded to them by a love that goes much deeper than running. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us a 'family' that extends far beyond those people we might be related to by blood. Help us to understand how important it is to be in a godly "circle of friends" Lord that we might make the time to foster these relationships and to be that person who reaches out to the lost and lonely to welcome them in. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Embrace the Suck and Start Acclimating

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let’s get started by talking about the obvious… the heat and humidity are seriously plaguing the Ozarks once again. It seems every year, we go from cool to stifling in a period of 24 hours. Which means, with summer here to stay, we runners have two choices if we want to continue to train. We can take it indoors and enjoy the air conditioning while watching Netflix and running on the treadmill or suck it up and head outside to start the process of acclimatizing to our new normal. 

And while both options will ensure that you keep up your endurance, choosing to train in the heat will give you a few added benefits. Including maintaining your social circle (think group runs), increasing your self confidence, ensuring you’re ready for the different terrains that come with fall races, and making it easier for you to run in cooler temps. 

With that being said, I hope you’ll choose to get outside and start the acclimation process that takes about two weeks. And if you’re new to running or need a refresher on staying safe in the summer heat while doing so, check out these 10 things you’ll need to know to outsmart the heat. 

PART 1: Plan Your Run Wisely

1. Pick the right time to run
On hot days, early morning is the coolest time to run and air quality is best. Another option is running later in the morning or in the evening. Avoid the afternoon, when the sun is highest in the sky. It's the time when it's hottest, most humid, and air quality is low. Consider doing long runs, tempo runs, and speed workouts on the cooler days of the week.

2. Choose the right route
Switch to a shady route on warm days. Shade lowers the temperature you feel by several degrees and reduces sun exposure. Move your run from the streets to trails. You'll get shade from trees and escape the intense heat of black asphalt. 

3. Plan a pre-cooling strategy
Scientists have found reducing body temperature before a workout can decrease heat stress and improve performance. Try wearing an ice vest and sitting in an air conditioned room. You can also try drinking an ice slushy ahead of time. Pre-cooling your body can delay the effects of heat on your body and help you perform better.

PART 2: Staying Cool On Your Run 

4. Wear more (yes, you read that right)
Stripping down on hot days seems intuitive, but it can actually make the heat worse. You’re better off shielding your body from the sun with lightweight, light-colored technical fabrics. This helps to reflect, rather than absorb heat, and wicks away moisture from your skin. 

You can also shield the sun by wearing clothing with UPF protection – this kind of apparel provides UV protection from fabric (UPF). A UPF of 50 allows only 1/50th of the UV radiation to pass through. You can also wear a running hat to cover your head and neck, and sunglasses to protect your eyes. 

Sunscreen is important because sunburned skin doesn’t sweat as well, making it harder for your body to cool itself off. Sunscreen also keeps skin temperature lower. 

5. Drink Up Hydrate before, during, and after runs. This improves performance and makes running feel easier. On hot runs, try to drink at least eight ounces of water or sports drink 30 minutes before a run. Drink small doses while you run and don’t neglect taking in the right type and amount of electrolytes. 

A few tips for staying hydrated during your run: 

You can carry a water bottle, use a bottle with a hand strap, a belt, or wear a hydration pack with a water bladder (a belt or a pack can also help by holding gear you shed as it warms up). For added cooling, place a flexible ice pack in the part of your hydration pack where the bladder goes and put cold bottles of water and/or electrolytes in the front pockets. 

If you don’t mind running loops, you can stash some water bottles on your route and come back to it. I place mine in a small cooler. 

Plan a route around water fountains or other places to fill up. The city parks are a great place to use this option. 

Don't forget to rehydrate after running. You need to compensate for fluid lost by sweating, but be careful not to overdrink. And don’t forget about 

6. Adjust your pace
When it isn’t possible to avoid the heat, change your goals. For example, if you planned on a 19-kilometer long run at 10-minute kilometer pace, change the distance to 16 kilometers or the goal pace to 10:30. Likewise, for a workout of 10 x 400 meters at two minutes each, switch to eight repeats or 2:10 goal pace. Even after making such distance or time adjustments, the value of the workout won't be diminished because it will make runs on cooler days seem easier in comparison.

Running in the heat even at a slower pace also prepares you for any warm-weather races in the future. Your body will adjust and get better at cooling itself, and you can gradually increase intensity. 

Acknowledge that blazing hot days are not the time to try to beat your personal record. You don’t have to feel like a slave to your running watch or your calendar.

7. Pour water on your head and body
Bring extra water so you can douse yourself. The refreshing feeling of cold water can make you feel a lot better.

8. Ice, ice baby 

Use a bandana to hold ice cubes against your neck. Women can try sticking an ice pack or frozen water bottle in the back of a sports bra for cooling relief. You can also freeze wash cloths overnight and bring them in a cooler.

9. Always listen to your body
Be mindful of the signals your body is sending you. If feel really uncomfortable, dizzy, or lightheaded, stop and rest for a bit. While not common, if you push your body too far in the heat, you may be at risk for heat stroke or heat exhaustion.

PART 3: Consider Alternatives 

10. When it’s just too hot – head indoors 

It’s okay to acknowledge when the weather is too hot for running outside. You can still get in a workout outside by doing something different to cross train, such as swimming laps, aqua jogging or a water hike. Head indoors to the air conditioning to tackle your run on a treadmill or do something new like an indoor fitness class such as spinning or dance.

And there you have it friends. The summer heat may have you regretting your decision to sign up for a fall race (think Bass Pro or Dogwood Canyon) right now, but don’t give up hope! Make a game plan to gut it out for a couple weeks until you’re acclimated to the heat and you’ll be happy with your decision once again. Meanwhile, take it slow, address your hydration and nutritional needs, and get out there with a smile on your face. You’ll be so glad you did. Happy Running!