Monkey Mind
Runner's World|December 2017

Good company silences the devil on every runner’s shoulder.

Bruce Pinnock
Monkey Mind

THE PERKS OF RUNNING BY YOURSELF include the freeing of your soul, and becoming one with nature. But that’s only if it’s sunny, the birds are singing, and the heavens are in harmony with you.

There are other times when there just ain’t no sunshine – neither outside, nor in your life. The sun disappears behind a gun-metal-grey cloud, birds cease their song, and running heaven becomes running hell.

Then, just when you think you couldn’t feel any lonelier, a monkey appears on your shoulder. He’s an evil little sod who whispers negative comments, and loves nothing more than to remind you of the dark, empty room in your brain where you go to feel very, very sorry for yourself.

And that’s when running alone just ain’t gonna cut it.

This story is from the December 2017 edition of Runner's World.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the December 2017 edition of Runner's World.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM RUNNER'S WORLDView All
LONGOVERDUE PRAISE FOR THE RUNNING SINGLET
Runner's World SA

LONGOVERDUE PRAISE FOR THE RUNNING SINGLET

In the last decade, the running singlet once reserved for amateur competitors and professional athletes - has gone mainstream, not only on race day but also on everyday runs.

time-read
9 mins  |
May/June 2024
RISE OF THE 'ILLEGAL RUNNING SHOES
Runner's World SA

RISE OF THE 'ILLEGAL RUNNING SHOES

Banned shoes emerged at a basketball court long before they found their way onto a marathon course.

time-read
9 mins  |
May/June 2024
CRACKING THE SLEEP CODE
Runner's World SA

CRACKING THE SLEEP CODE

Are you an early bird or a night owl? Perhaps you've assigned yourself another animal after completing an internet quiz. Research is shedding light on the link between well-being and circadian predisposition, but there's no need to rewire yourself. Learn to lean into your biology with our guide.

time-read
6 mins  |
May/June 2024
THE SECRET TO SPEED IS IN YOUP BLOOD
Runner's World SA

THE SECRET TO SPEED IS IN YOUP BLOOD

Some of the world's best runners credit this unorthodox Norwegian training method for their success. Is it right for you?

time-read
9 mins  |
May/June 2024
THE MIND OF MASSYN
Runner's World SA

THE MIND OF MASSYN

IN 2024, LOUIS MASSYN WILL ATTEMPT HIS 49TH COMRADES MARATHON AND HE'S LEARNT PLENTY OF LESSONS ALONG THE WAY. HERE'S THE STORY OF HIS AMAZING JOURNEY.

time-read
10 mins  |
May/June 2024
TAKING CHARGE
Runner's World SA

TAKING CHARGE

OUTSPOKEN AND AMBITIOUS, NEW COMRADES RACE MANAGER (AND FORMER WINNER) ANN ASHWORTH IS LOOKING TO TAKE THE RACE INTO THE FUTURE.

time-read
5 mins  |
May/June 2024
A HALF CENTURY OF COMRADES
Runner's World SA

A HALF CENTURY OF COMRADES

THIS YEAR, BARRY HOLLAND WILL BE AIMING TO FINISH HIS 50TH CONSECUTIVE COMRADES MARATHON. THIS IS WHAT HAS INSPIRED HIM.

time-read
6 mins  |
May/June 2024
MY RUNNING LIFE
Runner's World SA

MY RUNNING LIFE

ORDINARY RUNNERS doing EXTRAORDINARY THINGS

time-read
3 mins  |
May/June 2024
Ageing In The Age Of Strava
Runner's World SA

Ageing In The Age Of Strava

RECENTLY MY BUDDY Sean sent a text message that said, “Been running a lot of 5:30–6:00 kays early. It feels pretty nice at that pace.”

time-read
4 mins  |
May/June 2024
How To Start A Run When You Don't Feel Like It
Runner's World SA

How To Start A Run When You Don't Feel Like It

I'VE ALWAYS FELT validation when reading a story about writers and their love of procrastination.

time-read
3 mins  |
May/June 2024