For 2011 I started out the year with three distinct running goals: run my first marathon in under four hours, join Run Wild Missoula’s 1200 Club by running at least 1200 miles in the calendar year and set a new personal record in a half marathon.  Completing the first goal was a ton of fun – and a ton of work. Completing the second goal wasn’t easy either, but I finished up 2011 with 1,302 miles.  The third goal didn’t happen, but recovering from the Missoula Marathon took far longer than expected.

Thanks to a tight hamstring that shows no sign of improving, running in 2012 has been a struggle.  I’m already 100 miles behind where I was this time last year.  I started the Run Wild Missoula marathon training group on March 4, my third time training with the group.  Getting to run with old and new friends has been a plus, but I’m struggling. I can feel my fitness coming back, but it isn’t where I want it to be.

Why?

I thought about that over the last week and it wasn’t hard to find the answer.  Yes, the tight hamstring doesn’t help, but that’s not it.  Here it is:  I don’t have a goal.

Two years ago, I set out to run my first half marathon.  Having started running only a few months before, I was determined, fresh and perhaps stupidly optimistic, but it all worked out well.  Last year, I set out with the same determination to reach my first full marathon.  This year? I don’t have a goal.  Sure, I can try and run faster, but that’s not really my game.  So here I am. Training for  . . . . . something.

Why do it? There are a few reasons that come to mind.  Group runs with my friends are always a good time. I like the fellowship and the shared struggles and celebrations.  But I also need it.  Running allows me to maintain a good weight while continuing to enjoy far more of my less-than-healthful food preferences and, of course, all the beer.

Still reading? Cool.  My running posts are the least read of everything on Growler Fills, so thanks for sticking with me.  Beer and running are both social things and beer runners are a special breed.  Having an active, healthy lifestyle while enjoying great craft beer is a great combination.  Maybe you’re a fellow beer runner looking for some new connections. Maybe you’re starting on your own new exercise or running adventure and are looking for some information and advice from those who have been there.  Either way, there’s room around the bar stools to talk goals, beer and everything else.

Cheers.