In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, we asked runners, walkers and hikers to write a short love letter to their favorite form of movement! If you have been wondering why you still see so many of us out walking, running or hiking in the bitter cold we had this winter, just check out what some of them had to say:
Dear Running, Despite all the ups and downs we’ve been through, I always find myself coming back to you. I love the way you push me to be better and the way you create opportunities for me and my future.
Dear running, Thank you for giving grownups like me a great excuse to play outside!
Dear running, Thank you for making me feel like a beast!
Noses are red,
Fingers are blue,
Winter trail running is great for you!
Dear (formerly) running/now walking and hiking: thanks for giving me a kick in the butt when I need it! Thanks for always being there to remind me that I CAN push through whatever is challenging me and whatever is trying to knock me down. We’ll be together forever -maybe slower with time, but always together
Dear Running, Thank you for making me feel strong, giving me a reason to feel proud of myself and mentally stable… Most of the time! P.S. The weird running friends are great too!
Dear running, Without you, I would have never enjoyed the beautiful sights of Iceland! Without you, I would’ve never met all these additional great friends that I have.
Running Haiku
Morning air bites sharp
Footsteps drum the waking road
Heart remembers why
Dear Running, You have changed my life in so many ways. You’ve taken me on new adventures I never imagined and introduced me to friendships that have become such a gift. Through you, I’ve pushed past limits, grown stronger in body and mind, and had the opportunity to make a difference—raising money for incredible causes that truly matter. You’ve been therapy, challenge, celebration and community all wrapped into one.
Dear Hiking, You are my sunshine, my only sunshine! You make me happy when skies are gray! You’ll never know Hike, how fun your trails are! Please don’t take my Hiking away!
Dear Running, Thank you for saving my life again and again and again! You bring joy to my life that only a runner would understand! Together, we’re unstoppable!
Dear Running, Sorry I walked off when life lapped me on the track. I’m catching up, but don’t wait for me: I’m working on finding my stride again.
I love running for its solo miles, group runs and the wonderful community. For meeting me where I’m at, challenging me to push farther, and providing a quiet space when life gets crazy.
A Love Letter to the Long Walk: DE to CA 08’ American Discovery Trail
I gave my heart to miles that had no end,
To dust and dawn and faithful, aching feet.
Each step became a vow I’d not pretend,
Each breath a prayer the trail and I would meet.
You taught me time is earned, not rushed or sold,
That maps are lies the body must amend.
I crossed the land to learn what can’t be told:
That walking slow is how the soul transcends.
I loved you step by step, the whole way through.
Dear running, I know I don’t always treat you right. I feel we sometimes aren’t on the same page. But, man those good times, we are really a power couple. Every time I hear “lose yourself” by Eminem I think of you. All those PRs we did, all those summer rains, and sure, I don’t love you as much in the winter but that first snow, we really reconnect. We have a great friendship even though people don’t always understand it. Happy Valentine’s running ! Thank you for always being there for me!
Her daughter: Dear running, I know my mom loves you but I don’t. I mean sure it’s fun at recess or at cheer but a lot of people don’t like you and I’m one of them!
Dear Running- thank you for always being a sport I can return to, even if I take a break!! I wouldn’t have met my best friends or favorite places to be out in nature without you.
Dear Running, I love that you have allowed me to have so many awesome experiences and given me the confidence to tackle mountains, literally and figuratively.
I love running because it makes me feel connected to nature and has opened my eyes to so many different personalities and walks of life.
Dear Running, thank you for introducing me to a wonderful and supportive community and making lifelong friends along the way
Dear Walking, Thanks for being there when things get too heavy.
Roses are red,
Violets are blue,
A new PR
Makes me feel good as new
Dear Running, You always keep me going and nothing feels as good as a runner’s high.
Dear Running, I started running in my 50’s – It’s given me confidence in what my “older” body can do at 65 years young! I’m not dead yet! Loving that I can still run.
Dear Running, That’s very flattering, but I’m married.
Running makes me feel very in tune with my body. It makes me feel grounded, happy and fulfilled.
Dear Running, Thank you for always being there (since middle school!) I can always count on you. When I’m mad or sad, you make me feel better. I hate to love you and love to hate you!
Dear Running, I’m a senior runner at age 73 and running helps me stay fit and keeps the old man out!
Dear Running, Thank you for being so forgiving over the years. You always have open arms when I feel like returning to you!