The sun finally peeked out after two days of rain for this morning's Boston Marathon, arguably the most exciting event on the running calendar.  Since I'm able to run neither far enough or fast enough to qualify, I was not among the 23,021 runners who lined up at the start line today.  Regardless, it gave me a chance to think about why and how we run.  I came across this well-timed press release, which shows evidence that men are more likely to turn to marathon running for the chance to compete, while women run because it makes them feel good and helps them lose weight.

My experiences certainly align well with the study's findings.  My male friends enjoy comparing times and racking up statistics about how quickly they can run, while my female friends and I are happy and enegerized when we simply manage to complete a workout or a race.  When I enter a race, I don't worry about how my time will match up with that of other women from my age group.  Rather, I focus on the sense of pride and accomplishment I'll feel when I complete the distance... and on the large ice cream cone I'll treat myself to afterwards.

What motivates you to run?  How do you reward yourself for a job well-done?

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