Having embraced shirtless running, I must confess to have become rather evangelical about it, in that I nurse the hope that others will join our 'stripped-down' community - even as I want to stress that, in doing so, one is simply adopting a healthful and mind-opening pursuit.
I was therefore pleased to learn a day or two ago that I had, unbeknownst to me, converted someone fully to the cause. He is, as it happens, an old neighbour - my family has since moved - who had indeed been one of those who had registered evident astonishment years ago when I first began venturing out of my digs clad only in shorts, running shoes and socks. I was rather nervous about it then, and I fancy I can still remember his slightly forced smile. During the rest of my time living in that neighbourhood, I never saw him head out bare-chested to run - or indeed to go running at all - though we remained overall on the most cordial terms.
Still, so friendly had we remained that, the other day, we dropped by at his place when we chanced to be in the vicinity. It was his wife who mentioned that he was somewhat less of a couch potato than he used to be - and that he would come home from work in the evening, change into shirtless running attire and then trot out. Clearly, the wife had no issues with this conversion, and gave the strongest signs that she was thankful I had given him an example to follow. The man himself acknowledged that he felt the better for picking up a healthy habit and we discussed his hope that his rather slothful children would join him less infrequently. Perhaps there will be good news on the 'younger generation' when next we meet.
I can't really say why I should feel fulfilled at having increased the shirtless running community by at least one (I don't think the tardy children quite count yet). But I do know there are many out there who feel the same sense of pride at shedding the shirt (or running in jogbra), and I hope that more will offer up their views or experiences. Do write in!
3 comments:
Awesome blog! You are an inspiration. I definitely feel a sense of pride and accomplishment when I feel like I have encouraged someone else to peel off the shirt and feel comfortable in their own skin. I'm actually starting my own blog on a similar topic, a bit broader but not militant, either. It's http://shirtlessfreedom.blogspot.com/
Hullo Robbie, just dropped by at your blog, which I congratulate you for starting and which seems promising going by its statement of intent. I'll be sure to list it when I get a blogroll going (been lazy about this, admittedly).
Also, if you ever feel inclined to bash out a guest post that goes into any aspect of your experience or views, I'd be happy to run it with full credit and a link to your site.
All the best!
Thanks!
There is another post up now, specifically about shirtless running, which includes a link back to your blog. Feel free to drop by and comment when you get a chance.
Post a Comment