Runner’s World+ Member: September Gant
September is a Runner’s World+ member. Join her 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 was active throughout my childhood, participating in sports that included running in some form or another. However, there was a point in adulthood where life became heavy and stagnant. I neglected self-care, not properly addressing personal and professional issues, just sitting with them. This caused anxiety, often paralyzing me. The weight (literally and figuratively) of it all became overwhelming, so one day I got up and went for a run. At first, admittedly, it was to run from the problems, which was difficult because I could barely make it a quarter of a mile without stopping…several times. That changed as I continued to show up.
Running reignited my confidence, reminding me of the strength that I possess. As my feet pounded the pavement, I became lighter and not just on the scale; my soul became lighter too. Running became a time to focus on me, to turn inward and reflect—I’m no longer running from the issues. It is my therapy, a moving meditation to process all the emotions I internalize. A better version of myself emerges after a run, physically and emotionally; a version that refuses to sit stagnant any longer, but to push forward in life with each run.
I have subscribed to the print format for many years and recently joined RW+. I enjoy reading about the elites and new products, but I absolutely love the connection created with other members of the running community through articles highlighting the tribulation and triumphs of the everyday runner. The human race is awe-inspiring and RW+ grants me access to so many inspirational individuals.
Running has created such positive changes in my life that it has incited a desire within me to share the good fortune that comes from it. Although I currently operate at a microlevel of advocacy, I find encouragement from the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way.” Although they may be small steps, I seek out opportunities to contribute to a more inclusive and equitable world through running by participating in events that bring awareness to noteworthy causes. I join running-focused social groups that champion for inclusion and equality, such as IRun4 and Runners Heal. Positively impacting the lives of others through running keeps me motivated to lace up and get out the door.
I am exploring this amazing planet, one run at a time. My husband and I have been to 12 countries to date and use running to explore the magnificent areas we visit. One of my favorite runs was around Praha (Prague), Czech Republic, over the Charles Bridge. The architecture and history are breathtaking. I love exploring new cultures and customs and meeting new friends from all over the world. I hope to run in all fifty states, as many of the 195 countries as possible, and possibly on all seven continents. While I wish for all to take the necessary cautions to remain healthy and safe during this pandemic, I am looking forward resuming my “runcations."
I, like many runners, am armed with the gadgets we claim that we cannot live without, such as the data collecting watch/apps and wireless earbuds. I do enjoy my Samsung Gear 2 and wireless earbuds, but I have recently learned to detach from them at times, to go out and run without worrying about the distractions of pace/time. It is freeing. However, the one thing that I absolutely cannot run without are my Brooks. I have about 15 different pairs in my closet. My current rotation is between my favorite pair of Levitate 3s and a couple of pairs of Levitate 4s.
I have turned my family (husband, daughters, and now son-in-laws and grandchildren) into “one of those families!” You know the ones that run a 5K on holidays. I love encouraging others to run (or walk). If you do not remember “why” you started running and have crossed my path, I probably sparked that desire. You are welcome!
To make a positive impact through running, one small step at a time.
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