You already know the physical benefits of running, and if you run, you also know that there are countless emotional and mental benefits. From boosting creativity and productivity, to fostering a sense of organization, taking up running, particularly distance running, can impact your life profoundly.
Today’s guest, Dr. Jason Karp, holds many running accolades, including having been the youngest collegiate coach at the age of 24. In addition, he holds three degrees in exercise physiology. Today he talks to us about his book, The Inner Runner.
Some of the topics that you’ll hear discussed include:
- Why Jason wrote his book, and what the process was like.
- Some of the deeper characteristics of running, and how it can change your life.
- Why Jason feels it’s more important to track time than distance.
- How to use visualization to help you become a better runner.
- The science behind why running boosts mental awareness, creativity and more.
- Jason’s best advice, favorite pre-run foods, and favorite books in the final kick round.
Questions Jason is asked:
- 3:30: Did you consciously decide to become an author and an athlete, or was it just a natural progression?
- 5:15: How did you become the youngest collegiate coach?
- 8:20: How did you transition into the philosophic aspects of running?
- 11:20: Did the idea for the book come to you in one go?
- 14:10: How long did it take you to realize that running went beyond superficial things?
- 15:30: Is there a reason that we don’t admit that we question why we run?
- 16:35: What do you mean by “each run has a purpose”?
- 18:50: If more running is better, what if someone is injury-prone?
- 21:05: Would you say that your limit is something only you can find out for yourself?
- 26:55: Why do you think we’re afraid to show our vulnerability?
- 31:20: Can you explain how to use visualization to go beyond your limits and enhance running?
- 34:10: How can someone who’s never used visualization get started with it?
- 37:40: Why do we find it difficult to celebrate our accomplishments and always want more?
- 39:00: Do you think it’s important to reflect a bit?
- 40:15: Can you share some things about how running increases our creativity and productivity?
- 44:05: Can you share a sneak peek of your new book about running and diet?
- 46:10: Where do you see yourself going into the future?
Quotes from Jason:
“People just want to run. They don’t realize how scientific it is.”
“Running is about more than just getting faster…. It’s about how you feel.”
“Running has an addictive property just like other drugs have.”
“Running means living life with a purpose. It means living life with intention.”
“Most people can run more than they do. We all have our limit, and we need to find out where that limit is.”
“Your body measures two things: how hard it’s working and how long it’s working.”
“The one thing that we all share in common is our physicality. We are our bodies…. We are meant to live a physical life.”
“Success begins in your mind.”
“We can all be better than we currently are. Running gives us the chance to narrow the gap between where we are and where we want to be.”
“Other animals don’t have the capacity to imagine themselves better than they are. That’s one thing that makes humans unique.”
“Distance runners tend to be very organized and good at getting things done.”
“Don’t be afraid of failure. As a runner and an entrepreneur, I deal with a lot of failure…. You just need to accept that failure is a part of the process and don’t lose sight of the goal.”
“Don’t be intimidated by running.”
We really hope you’ve enjoyed this episode of Run to the Top. Please consider giving us a review on iTunes by clicking THIS link. You can follow this YouTube Video of a Demonstration of How to Leave a Review. Thank you in advance.
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Take a Listen on Your Next Run
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Links and Resources:
Last week’s episode with Michael Horvath
The equilibrium method of running
Don’t Shun the Run/Walk Method
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Thank you so much for tuning in. Remember you can always email me tina@runnersconnect.net if you have any suggestions, feedback, or guests you would like to hear from.
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Next week, we will be talking to Chris Kelly. You won’t wanna miss this!
