Issue Twenty-Three of Like the Wind Running Magazine

When we lace up and go out for a run, it might be to add up some training miles, make time to think through a problem or simply to get away from work for an hour. But the act of putting one foot in front of another can be so much more than that, and once again we’re privileged in this issue of Like the Wind to be able to share stories of the power of running from all over the world.

And it really is “all over the world” – our amazing contributors this issue transport us via their words and imagery to New York by night, the beautiful tropical landscape of the Azores, the south Pacific island of Aitutaki, the high altitude of Addis Ababa and the stunning trails of the Alps. Meanwhile, in the Somalian capital, ex-soldier Jody Bragger shares the inspirational story of how he founded the Mogadishu Marathon, and why it means so much to Somalian runners to carry the flag of their country.

Running has the power to change lives. Mary Beech shares her story of how the determination to run and the act of marathon training turned around her marriage, while Moe Bsat explores the underrepresentation of People of Colour in mainstream running, even though running can be a vehicle for change. Plus, Jonathan Acott opens up about how walking, running and the act of being outside became vital to his life after several diagnoses of cancer. Going for a run can also make us feel mentally stronger, as Olivia Ratcliffe discusses in her honest story of how depression crept into her life.

And then there are those runs that give you a huge buzz – but why is that? Journalist and marathoner Kate Carter has been researching the “runner’s high” for us, getting to grips with the science behind the phenomenon.

So whether you’re running for miles or for mental balance, and wherever in the world you hit the trails or the asphalt, let our stories inspire you.