Spring, Sprang, Sprung!

According to the calendar, it's Spring. The thermometer may not agree, but we know the warm days are coming. I've been thinking about spring, but not that kind. The infinite wisdom of the English language allows for several alternative meanings for the word spring.

The spring I've been thinking about is the elastic device used to store energy. For the physicists among us (or Big Bang Theory fans),  what I mean is displayed in this graph on the right.

For everyone else, the photo below might make more sense.

 We use springs all the time, but don't think much about them. Springs store potential energy and release it when acted upon by a force. I'd like you to create this image in your mind: even if this wasn't a great winter of running for you, you've been storing energy, just like a spring. Now, with a force applied, you can release it.

Maybe that force is a burst of sunshine, or your training buddy's phone call. Maybe it's the entry fee for an upcoming race, or maybe it's a new pair of shoes. Whatever the source, you're ready to spring into action.

Achieving balance between storing energy and using energy is an art. A well-made spring is an amazingly simple device that has mastered that equation. We can learn a few things from springs, like the importance of stretching, and that for each action there will be a balancing reaction.

It's spring and you're a spring, so it's time to tap into your stored energy. Strap on your shoes, head for the doors, and let yourself go. Don't worry if winter training didn't go as planned. You have plenty of stored energy, and stored memories.

Off you go. Spring, sprang, sprung!.

Now, about those temperatures. Can we convert some kinetic energy into thermal energy? I'm ready for Spring!

Splashing to Spring, One Step At a Time

Even a near-record winter had to end sometime. That time officially is Sunday, March 20. This week of melting has given us the usual puddles along with epic potholes. Runners and walkers are at peril on every sidewalk as the freeze/thaw cycle adds invisible hazards. We're ready, though, to take on that challenge.

Splash, splash, splash, skidddd.

The occasional icy patch doesn't change the reality that spring is winning this battle. There may be another blast, but the snow mounds have started to disappear, retreating like conquered soldiers.

Soon enough we'll forget all about this winter. As green emerges, we will undergo that amazing transformation that is spring in the  upper midwest. For now, take time to reflect on your winter accomplishments, and ready yourself for the frenzy of spring.

One step at a time we make the transition.

Splash, splash, splash. The sound of spring!

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Looking for a great way to celebrate the coming of spring? Join us on Sunday, March 20 for the St Patrick's Day Human Race on Summit Avenue in St Paul. Choose the 8K, 5K or youth run. Registration available through race day.