Direct Communication
Direct Communication leaves nothing to your imagination.
One of the great things about the ultra marathon community is the very direct and concise communication about things that work for issues on long runs. A typical issue is blisters and chafing. My friend’s husband was recently running across the state of Tennessee and the question came up on how to he avoided blisters and chafing. Here was her very direct communication:
““On your thighs between your legs, apply powered deodorant. Suave from Wal-Mart works great. Crouch and butt love bag balm. Stays on even going potty and after wiping. Bag balm work great under sports bra band. Deodorant applied on your back where your pack would rub. A & D ointment if you end up chafed. I run in a skirt and never have chafing between my legs. Powered deodorant and bag balm are in his pack” ”
That is “no beating around the bush” direct communication, written by an experienced runner.
What if, we could just answer someone using direct language? Discovery, confidence and forward motion could occur.
Early this morning I set out on my weekly long run. I am thankful to be slowly getting back into ultra conditioning. My 11.3-mile run was a result of slowly increasing my distance about 10% every ten days since the spring. A long run requires more preparation for any area that friction will occur. Thankful to not have blisters or chafing. (I use my own DYI mixture of Organic Shea Butter/Coconut Oil/Olive Oil and Avocado Oil). I did have calf cramps and am treating them.
The “longer” you are in a job, relationship, exercise, house, car, hobby, you will encounter problems that only surface after an extended period of time of going in the same direction with the same person on the same job, in the same house, etc. Those problems don’t surface in short term relationships/jobs/exercise/hobbies, etc. Consider asking those who are fellow participants with a long track record, and give them freedom to give you direct communication. Be a DYI’er, and customize the direct communication you are given for your own unique situation.
You can also hire a coach. One of many benefits of a coaching relationship is direct communication within a confidential coaching relationship that produces discover, confidence and forward motion.
Consider the benefits you could gain by having a coach in your life.
Photo credit: Runners World