Late evening run...
Mind you, my progress in running cannot be described as "blink-and-you'll miss" it metamorphosis. But when I decided to do this, the point was not to see the results instantly, but to move the needle bit-by-bit daily, and making these changes sustainable.It meant digging down to the micro level and doing something that sucks every day, no matter how I felt or how tired I might be or how late it is.
I realize now that all emotional and physical anguish is finite. It all ends eventually, so they say it's better smile at pain and watch it fade for at least a second or two. I've noticed if I can do that while running, I can string those seconds together and last longer.. and that may be enough to catch a second wind.
There is no scientific consensus on the second wind. Some scientists think it's the result of endorphins flooding your nervous system, others think it's a burst of oxygen that can help break down lactic acid.. some say it's purely psychological. But by going hard when I feel nearly defeated, I often come to riding a second wind through the worst. And once I have that second wind behind... it's ON, BABY! :) it's a magnificent thing. The hard part is getting to that point.
But I think it boils down to bringing your very best when you feel your absolute worst.
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