The fact that I enjoy running surprises me to the point that I have become rather philosophical about it. How is it that I have gone all these years without running? Why did I despise running when I was younger (and more able to do it)? Is there something in human genetics that predisposes us to being lovers of running? Are humans supposed to run long distances? Fast? Why are some people so much better at it than others.
I have done some googling on human endurance running and most results refer back to the studies done by Dr. Dan Lieberman, a Harvard anthropologist. He states that humans are built for long distance running. Our butts, our necks, even the shape of our heads, are all results of genetic selection for being better at running than walking or climbing trees.
Apparently, toe length is also very important to being a good distance runner. Short toes are better for running than longer toes, and this makes me happy.
All of these physiological adaptations are nice to know, but I've determined I'm more interested in the psychological drive to run. I think this too has something to do with our hominid ancestors.
I think that I run because it's as close to meditation as I have ever gotten. I allow thoughts to pass through my mind, but I don't dwell on any one thing. I think I will look into making my runs more meditative. I am sure others have done it and the deep breathing of meditation has to be good for running. I have some investigation to do.
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