Chapter 1: The Allure of Running

Since participating in my first official 10K event years ago, I have felt an irresistible pull toward running. Initially, I believed that the exhilarating rush of endorphins after a brisk evening run was what kept me coming back. I relished the experience of being outdoors, with sunlight warming my skin, the sounds of nature soothing my ears, and the sunset painting my surroundings in golden hues.

Yet, after countless long runs—my feet pounding rhythmically against the earth, beads of sweat cascading down my neck, and my tan lines becoming more pronounced—I’ve come to understand that it’s the grit inherent in running that truly captivates me.

Grit serves as the heartbeat of running. It strengthens the mind when faced with daunting challenges, such as steep hills or the final leg of a long-distance run that feels overwhelming. This tenacity transforms the grind of lengthy runs into something enjoyable. Grit embodies mental resilience—the will to persevere, to confront the ‘running wall’, to accept fatigue, endure challenges, and flourish through the struggle.

Now, my passion for running is fueled by this desire to cultivate grit. It’s akin to reframing a picture, where the challenging moments become opportunities to enhance my reservoir of determination.

One of the most renowned female distance runners, Courtney Dauwalter, refers to grit as her “pain cave.” By pushing her limits, she has trained herself to conquer mental fatigue.

“I find a lot of comfort in being uncomfortable. I call it the pain cave. It’s not a place I’m scared to enter. It’s a place I’m excited to find the entrance to.”

— Courtney Dauwalter

Living in Arizona, I often had to dig deep during my long runs across the desert landscape. Saturdays were dedicated to my personal goal of completing a half marathon weekly, and the desert provided a stunning backdrop for these long journeys. Preparation was essential; I carried plenty of water, applied sun protection, and informed someone of my whereabouts. My usual route involved an out-and-back track near South Mountain, popular among mountain bikers.

I would silence my phone and stow it away in my Camelbak to maintain focus on the trail. The desert is home to rattlesnakes, which often lie camouflaged among rocky paths, waiting for their next meal. I’ve encountered these snakes on nearly every run and have learned to channel my fear into cautious, deliberate movements.

I attribute my encounters with rattlesnakes and my ability to continue running to my grit. Those long runs in Arizona demand perseverance as I carefully ration my water, turning back when half my supply is gone and my face is covered in a layer of dried sweat. While it’s tough to push through the mental valleys and the physical screams to stop, the exhilaration I feel upon reaching my car—with yet another run completed—is unparalleled.

Following my time in Arizona, I lived in Southern Utah and East Tennessee, both regions rich with mountain trails and natural beauty. Home to stunning National Parks like Zion, Bryce, and the Great Smoky Mountains, these places are a runner’s paradise. I craved those trails, the breathtaking views, and the challenge of longer, more intense runs.

Running acts as a magnet for me, and the uphill struggles only intensify my grit. In the initial moments of a run, when facing an incline or reaching the halfway mark, I may feel deflated, yet the triumphant feeling that follows is insatiable. Overcoming those low moments empowers me to tackle faster, longer, and harder runs.

I have come to realize that the runner’s high is tied to exploring the mental boundaries of running. How far can I go? How quickly can I conquer that mountain? Celebrating these new milestones—both physical accomplishments and mental breakthroughs—is what keeps me motivated.

Grit propels the journey of running.

In "Summer Grit Miles," the importance of grit in running is explored, showcasing how it can transform challenges into growth opportunities.

Chapter 2: The Grit in Every Step

"GRIT Episode 4: Running with Fire" delves into the mental toughness and perseverance essential for success in running.

Grit is what fuels the grind.