Runners are supposed to have a mantra, a phrase or few words to repeat to themselves when they need to dig deeper, whether they’re pushing up a tough hill, trying to up their pace, or just trying to keep going. I’ve read about these mantras in books and articles, and some of these pieces have offered suggestions, but I never found one that I liked.
Then one day while training for the marathon and climbing a steep hill, I thought of the classic Rocky scene where he climbs the staircase in his sweats and raises his arms in victory. That thought led me to “Getting Strong Now”. I think it’s the theme song from Rocky… I honestly don’t remember any other lyrics… but I remember that phrase and the tune that goes with it. Ever since, when I need to dig deep that little phrase plays over in my mind. Something about it makes me want to go harder, even when my body wants to quit. I guess I have a running mantra.
