Embracing the Running Journey at San Diego State University
San Diego State University (SDSU) is often celebrated for its vibrant campus life and its stunning coastal views, making it a haven for students. For many, like myself, the college experience is a comfortable and carefree journey. I’m a third-year student, happily residing in our college house affectionately known as "The Homestead." My days revolve around lectures, socializing, and basking in the sun, and to be honest, that’s how I like it. However, this semester, I’ve decided to shake things up and embark on a new adventure that drives me to conquer both personal and physical challenges: training for the San Diego Beach & Bay Half Marathon on April 12.
From Casual Walker to Half Marathon Runner
While I’ve participated in family events like the annual Thanksgiving Turkey Trot or engaged in leisurely strolls around my hometown, the thought of running a half marathon—13.1 miles—is both exhilarating and intimidating. Until this point, I haven’t considered myself a technical runner. This endeavor is about much more than just crossing a finish line; it’s a journey that embodies my connection to San Diego and the community of college students who are also figuring out their health priorities amid busy lives.
The Fitness Culture of San Diego
One of the aspects I genuinely admire about San Diego is the deep-rooted fitness culture that permeates the community. The lifestyle here encourages wellness, whether through organized group activities like the PB Run Club, scenic climbing and biking programs in the East County mountains, or energizing cliffside yoga sessions at the breathtaking Tourmaline Beach. Cardio-dancing at the Aztec Recreation Center is also a popular activity that attracts many students looking to stay active. With such a variety of options, movement becomes a way of life. As I lace up my running shoes, I’m excited not just about improving my physical endurance but also about discovering how running allows me to engage more profoundly with the city I now call home.
Training Schedule: The Road Ahead
To prepare for the marathon, I’ve devised a committed training schedule. My week consists of a short run at the beginning, followed by what I’ve dubbed “Long Run Friday!” This dedicated long-run session offers me the ultimate opportunity not just to train but also to explore some of San Diego’s most scenic routes. Each weekend adventure has been as much about discovering new landscapes as it has been about building my endurance.
Scenic Routes: Discovering San Diego by Foot
From running the beautiful coastal stretch between Mission Beach and Pacific Beach to navigating the breathtaking paths from Windansea Beach to the iconic La Jolla Coves, each run has revealed stunning views I might have otherwise missed. I even had a humorous mishap where I unintentionally ended up in a fenced area behind SeaWorld, showcasing how sometimes the journey can veer off course in unexpected ways.
Quick Escapes: Lake Murray
As the demanding schedule of college life leaves little room for extensive workouts during the week, I’ve found that Lake Murray serves as an ideal quick training spot. Located just a ten-minute drive from “The Homestead,” this six-mile out-and-back trail provides a perfect environment for training runs. The spot offers a serene escape from the hustle of student life, allowing me to cover four miles—two in each direction—before returning to my afternoon classes. The peaceful setting is not only rejuvenating but also an inspiration, showing that fitness doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.
Documenting the Journey
As I continue this journey toward the half marathon, I am preparing to document the highs and lows of my transformation from a novice into what I hope will be a seasoned runner. This experience promises to be messy, filled with struggles such as trials, errors, and yes, even lost toenails. However, it also offers an exciting opportunity to explore deeper connections between running and what health entails for me and my fellow San Diegans. As I lace up my shoes and venture out, I invite you to join me—run along as I navigate this new chapter at SDSU.
