The 20 Minute Runner

Thanks for stopping by for Episode 97. We are closing in on 100. Today, we begin as always with running the hills. After working on getting back into it for  a few weeks, we are now up to four miles and 5 hills, all within the first 1.25 miles. No wonder 2 miles felt harder than 4!

I also give an update on my wife's health. Thank you for your kind words and prayers for her. While Cindy is not well, we are very hopeful.

So, strap on your shoes, take your time, as we run some hills in the rain no less.

And as always,

Thanks for sharing some of the road with me,

The 20 Minute Runner

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The opening and closing Music is entitled "Running" and is by The Jefferson. Check it out at Music Alley.

The song heard in the body of this episode is entitled "Write Your Name" by Edwin DerriCutt. Check it out at Music Alley.

After months away from the podcast, I am finally back. I know, I know. You are probably saying: "I've heard that before!" Seriously, I understand, but hopefully we are back on track now. Anyway, welcome to Episode 96. It's hard to believe that we are finally nearing the big "100"!! Woohoo!! Be sure and send me any pictures, well-wishes, or wav or mp3 fiiles to share in the celebratory 100th episode. Don't wait too long. Send them to [email protected]

Without going into great detail her, you will know as you listen to this episode what I mean by the title I have given it. Your well wishes (via FB/Twitter/DM) have been appreciated. Feel free to connect with me at any of those outlets if you like. I ALWAYS like hear from my listeners. Listen as well for "Roland's Gatorade Recipe." SEND ME YOUR SUGGESTIONS FOR A NAME. I will share the names submitted and the winner in a future podcast.

We also share an article by Lily McCann. I talk about it in the podcast; here is the full article:

Running to the Beat: Ten Cool Songs to Keep You on Your Toes

Runners of the world take note: there are more running-friendly songs available to you than ‘Eye of the Tiger’ or ’Simply the Best’. Sick of listening to Queen’s Greatest Hits on repeat? Then read on to discover some new songs to consider adding to the iPod when you’re planning your next run. Want to know the best part? Each and every one has the words ‘run’ or ‘running’ in the lyrics. Cool, huh?

On the Run - Pink Floyd

Taken from the 1970s progressive rock band’s third album, Dark Side of the Moon, this instrumental piece of music starts gently, but builds up to a rhythmic crescendo that is supposed to represent the pressures of travel. Not great if you are seeking inspiration from positive, life-affirming lyrics that encourage you to keep on going; keep on running, but perfect for those seeking ‘white noise’ that will help their minds to focus.

Run to You – Bryan Adams

Upbeat right from the start, this is the perfect accompaniment to a pavement pounding session. This tune from the Canadian rock singer-songwriter has become a modern musical icon that has everyone’s toes tapping, let along feet running. Although it was released in 1984 – almost 30 years ago, it remains fresh, upbeat and a must-have on any runner’s iPod.

Runaway – Bon Jovi

Another 1980s great from US rock band, Bon Jovi, this is upbeat, rhythmic and full of interest, with rising crescendos and quieter sections, interesting lyrics and a great guitar solo mid-song. The song’s tempo suits a general running pace and anyone who doe not sing along as they run must have greater will-power than most.

Run to Me – Bee Gees

“Run to me, whenever you’re lonely; run to me if you need a shoulder…” This song is another gentle giant that does not provide a particularly strong beat to run to. However, the song’s key strength is in its powerful message of solidarity and support. Something many a lonely runner needs to hear when finding the training hard going. Plus, you really can’t beat those delicious Bee Gee harmonies…

Run to the Hills – Iron Maiden

Just as one might expect from one of the great heavy metal bands of the 1970s, this song hits you in the face from the off, telling the story of the conflict between European settlers in the New World and the Native American tribes. That’s one way to ensure people sit up and take notice of American history, and a great motivator to keep running – to the hills and on towards the finish line.

Run – Snow Patrol

Released in 2004, this chilled out song would suit the cooling down session at the end of a hard run. Its calm mood and melodic chords help the listener relax, while the crescendos thrill the soul and add to a runner’s feelings of post-run euphoria. ‘Run’ is an uplifting, song, the like of which is regularly used by practitioners of music therapy to help calm the nerves and unlock inhibitions that prevent people from achieving their goals. For example, people prone to quick anger bursts can be appeased with a relaxing tune. Smokers who find that they suffer unbearable symptoms of cold turkey after they buy Chantix or similar smoking cessation drugs can ease their discomfort with chilled-out music, and those with irrational fears or phobias can even sometimes be calmed and enticed out to face their fears with tracks like this. Music really can be that powerful.

Run for Your Life – The Beatles

No iPod music collection is complete without at least one Beatles track. The 1960s iconic British quartet’s bouncy vibe will not fail to cheer up even the most exhausted runner. This particular song has a dark side to it, due to the threatening tone adopted by a girl’s jealous and possessive lover – indeed, John Lennon is said to have regretted writing it afterwards. However, with its jaunty rhythm and running theme, it still qualifies for inclusion in this list.

Born to Run – Bruce Springsteen

Another 1970s classic – this song has a decent beat, great voice and plenty of interest to help keep motivation levels high out on the road. Title song of Springsteen’s third album and released in 1975, this song displays a wide range of influences.

Ready to Run – The Dixie Chicks

Now for something completely different… this county classic is all about girl power. Released in 1999, it tells of a girl ‘ready to run’ away from a wedding she is unsure of going through with and towards her new, fun-filled future. Slightly cynical attitude towards love aside, this song is inspirational for those looking to run towards their own fun filled, healthier future. Go get ‘em, girlfriend!

Run, Rabbit, Run – Flanagan and Allen

OK, so this is a slightly more light-hearted choice to round up the list. Made popular by British Second World War comedy and singing duo, Flanagan and Allen, the lyrics tell of a life-and-death chase between a gun-wielding farmer intent on rabbit pie for his dinner, and the hapless rabbit fleeing for his life. Maybe not quite so useful to runners looking for focus, but perhaps its upbeat tone will provide a laugh for times when the road is long, the hills steep and the finishing line a long way away. Thanks for sharing some of the road with me, The 20 Minute Runner _________________________ The opening and closing Music is entitled "Running" and is by The Jefferson. Check it out at Music Alley. The music heard in the body of the podcast is entitled "Blues Ovale" by AjT. Check it out at Music Alley.