Sports from all over the world right now are gaining lots of attention thanks to the Olympics Games in Rio. One of these sports in the spotlight is track and field. Watching amazing athletes participate at such an advanced level allowed me to think about my own experience with track and all the things it has taught me. Here are five important lessons you can learn from running track and field.
1. Pain is temporary.
Running is a sport that does not come easily for many. If you are one of those people, you understand the pains that can come along with it. However, no matter how badly your shin splints feel, how much you want to catch your breath, or how badly you want water, the pain is always temporary. After the race ends, you are left with a feeling of accomplishment unlike any other.
2. Runners are the nicest people.
If you are in search of the perfect show of kindness and sportsmanship, attend a track and field event. Runners, whether they are on the same team or not, are always there to support, encourage and motivate each other. Runners form a community of people that are unlike the participants in any other sport.
3. Running is a team sport.
If you don't participate in a relay, you would describe your event as an "individual" race. While you may be the only one running, those of you who have participated in track know that you are never running alone. Coaches, teammates, friends and family are always there to support you and cheer you on. The friendships made with your track team is a bond unlike any other.
4. It's okay to not always come in first.
Track is a sport that depends on rankings and the desire to come in first. Even so, participating in track quickly teaches you that your best is all you can do. Especially in races when you find yourself racing against larger amounts of people, it is important to acknowledge that the gold medal is not always within reach. Even more importantly, it teaches you to be tremendously proud of what you can achieve.
5. Once a runner, always a runner.
Even after you pass the finish line for your last time and your last race ends, you do not give up your title as a runner. Track and field allows you to develop a love/hate relationship with running that you could never give up.
