by Zach Moeller

Illustration by Joe Scordo

Many skateboarders only associate the word “run” with a word that follows “beer” or what you do when the cops blitz the spot. Comparing skating to running may seem like a stretch to most – I certainly still cringe when I see run clubs passing by in the street. But Father Time is unrelenting, and as age slowly began to creep up on me a couple of years back, I decided to start running around my neighborhood a few times a week in an attempt to try and stay in shape so I can keep playing with my wooden toy as long as possible. While foreign at first, it didn’t take long for me to realize that the two things have much more in common than I ever imagined.

For starters, running is a great way to get out and explore your city. You are out in the streets, and unless you never change up your route, you’re bound to see things a little differently and discover new places. I have found several spots that I have gone back to skate while running through different zones. I have also found that running is a great way to clear your head when life feels busy. While I always prefer a good session for a mental reset, going for a run can give you time to think (or not think at all, if that’s what you need) and serves as a notable runner up for a cognitive recalibration.

I have found that running and skating share the common theme of being able to push yourself. You get to be your own coach, set your own goals, and carve your own path. Setting a new PR or pace is just as rewarding as getting a trick – it’s another form of satisfaction following perseverance, and an excellent reminder that you can overcome challenges you set for yourself. The flipside to this is that you also have the option to just enjoy the ride; maybe you just want to sweat and move your body with milestones not being paramount. Either way, you get to be in control. 

As with skating, sometimes the motivation to go run isn’t there. It might feel like a chore to get off the couch to get your jog in, but you can safely count on feeling better after, the same way you brighten up following a good session. Some days you’re in your groove and feel great, while others you may feel sluggish and dispassionate. With both skating and running, one thing is clear – even when things feel tough, the only way forward is to keep pushing.

Both skating and running are hell on your knees but great for your soul. With the exception of forced downtime, I never feel quite right without getting to do both a few times throughout my week. The next time you feel like you need to be active, I highly recommend lacing up a pair of running shoes and hitting the pavement. You might really enjoy the ride.