4 ms·

I think the 260 pounds, kidney damage, and broken bones things might be the writer greatly over-dramatizing this part of the story, too. Why do I think this?

I think the 260 pounds, kidney damage, and broken bones things might be the writer greatly over-dramatizing this part of the story, too. Why do I think this? David Goggins ran a 50 mile ultra a little over a month after the San Diego 100: http://ultrasignup.com/results_participant.aspx?fname=David&lname=Goggins http://ultrasignup.com/results_participant.aspx?fname=David&... (Scroll down to 2006). David is undoubtedly a very tough (and gifted) endurance athlete. No doubt about that - just look at his results. But I also think overblowing these stories is dangerous. No one should ever think that they should battle serious kidney damage (and risk death) in order to finish a completely optional foot race.

gist 11y ago
"No one should ever think that they should battle serious kidney damage (and risk death) in order to finish a completely optional foot race." I agree. But I have to ask you this question (since I see that you are quite accomplished in this area from your webpage). Isn't there a strong mental component to people who do these types of things? (I don't have that currently although I have exercised nearly every day for the past 18 or so years..) My point is if someone goes down a certain path which they believe will make them happy (or fit) aren't they compelled to keep up with what they have started for almost mental health purposes? I am reminded of when I used to run everyday even when it was snowing or raining heavily (I used to tape bags around my feet). I no longer do that and looking back I think it was a bit crazy when I did (although it felt great and as if I had accomplished something by enduring harsh (to me) conditions).
- ErikAugust 11y ago
  Oh, yes, definitely. Through habit and positive reinforcement, the psychological drive to run, train and race grows wildly in some people - and it can grow dangerously large. As a result, people run their way to injury and other serious long-term health repercussions. See the article someone posted above, for notable examples. The mind is so powerful - it can override everything, to the complete detriment of the body. And even if most of the injuries and health problems aren't life threatening - it's truly sad because by overdoing it, you can still kill your ability to run, the thing you love to do. I think to be successful in the long-term - meaning, staying mostly injury-free, improving performance over time, and performing at your peak in your races - is to be absolutely exceptional at governing that psychological drive.

gist 11y ago

"No one should ever think that they should battle serious kidney damage (and risk death) in order to finish a completely optional foot race." I agree. But I have to ask you this question (since I see that you are quite accomplished in this area from your webpage). Isn't there a strong mental component to people who do these types of things? (I don't have that currently although I have exercised nearly every day for the past 18 or so years..) My point is if someone goes down a certain path which they believe will make them happy (or fit) aren't they compelled to keep up with what they have started for almost mental health purposes? I am reminded of when I used to run everyday even when it was snowing or raining heavily (I used to tape bags around my feet). I no longer do that and looking back I think it was a bit crazy when I did (although it felt great and as if I had accomplished something by enduring harsh (to me) conditions).

ErikAugust 11y ago
Oh, yes, definitely. Through habit and positive reinforcement, the psychological drive to run, train and race grows wildly in some people - and it can grow dangerously large. As a result, people run their way to injury and other serious long-term health repercussions. See the article someone posted above, for notable examples. The mind is so powerful - it can override everything, to the complete detriment of the body. And even if most of the injuries and health problems aren't life threatening - it's truly sad because by overdoing it, you can still kill your ability to run, the thing you love to do. I think to be successful in the long-term - meaning, staying mostly injury-free, improving performance over time, and performing at your peak in your races - is to be absolutely exceptional at governing that psychological drive.