12 Lessons From The 4x4x48
Committing to the David Goggins’ 4x4x48 was one thing. Unfortunately like a lot of things in life, talk is cheap. In Part I I took you inside some of my curiosity and preparation, Part II unpacks the tole each run took while also exploring what kept me going all weekend.
Each run I completed had a theme consisting of something that motivated me. I’d like to share each theme with you, highlighting details about each run. Of course, when you run four miles 12 times over the course of 48 hours, each run will be unique.
Doubt: Miles 0-4
As I prepared for the first of 12 runs, my hamstrings were tight and my foot hurt. Nothing felt great, but there was excitement to this run. The shuffle on my “Run You Fool” playlist was perfect, and got me pumped. I hit the local park for this one, running the lines of the football field and then perimeter of the park to round out my first run.
“The first thing I’m doing with doubt, I’m not running away from it, I’m running at it.”
Mistakes: Miles 4-8
Before getting ready for run number two, I wanted to sleep, but I couldn't before this one. The adrenaline was running and my couch was not as comfortable as I imagined it to be. This was fun as the town was still up while I took to the streets for a run through the main roads and neighborhoods.
“The only way to really stretch yourself, see what you’re capable of, is to try new things.”
Set An Example: Miles 8-12
This run was dedicated to my parents. Up at 2:30 a.m., I was dressed, stretched and flicked my new body light on to creep through the village. I saw a few cars, mostly people coming or going home after a night out. Overall, this was a very peaceful run. I managed to drop my phone entering the house, almost waking everyone up.
Poppy: Miles 12-16
This run took place on March 6, which is my grandfather’s birthday. We called him Poppy. I dedicated this run to all four of my grandparents. I took a drive to the local track, thinking this would be a nice change. Well, the track still had snow on it and wow was it boring out there. I quickly pivoted my plan and mixed up running laps and what “snakes” on the football field. It snowed throughout the run which was more peaceful than distracting.
Team & Pressure: Miles 16-20
This was my first run after a big breakfast, which helped. After all, I hadn’t eaten anything since dinner the night before. Pain settled down as well, which may have had something to do with well-timed Advil I took before this run. My body was tired though. The miles were making my legs heavy for sure.
Friendship: Miles 20-24
I thought this would be the worst run, but it ended up being pretty good. I saw a few people also doing the 4x4x48 challenge, which motivated me. I also just ran, not worrying about coming home. One of my best friends had agreed to pick me up, so I took off and stopped at the four mile mark. This was the halfway mark, but I was feeling alright given the circumstances. Crazy to think that I am only 50-percent there. I can see why some people would pack it in at this point.
Audience Town: Miles 24-28
I thought about my cofounders on this one, a team that I’m very proud to be a part of, Audience Town. The kids went to bed and I headed out for run number seven. This run felt more like a shuffle jog. I was not on a terrible pace, but I was just trying to get back so I could get some rest.
“We have three values that we live by at the company and make most decisions by. That’s to be family first, to get it done, and to try and have some fun while we do it.”
Showing Up: Miles 28-32
Waking up for this run was hard. I passed out around 8:30-9 p.m. and didn’t want to move when the alarm went off at 10:30 p.m. Another tired run, my pace seems to have settled in north of ten minutes per-mile.
“If you think about this whole running challenge, it has nothing to do with running. It actually is all about can you make it to the starting line every four hours? That’s the challenge.”
Forever Changed: Miles 32-36
To my daughter, Valentina, whose first birthday is later this month. Mentally, I wanted to get here. Four runs left, and this was the last one in the dark. I’m not only tired, but feel hungry as well. I thought the meals were enough, but I needed more. I actually feel like I’m back in college, cutting weight for a wrestling match. Luckily, I know this feeling. Tiring? Yes, but not something I can’t work through. Fortunately, my motivation for this run was bigger and put the “pain” I was feeling into perspective.
“There was no way we were going to let the circumstances of things that were outside of our control dictate what happened next to our family.”
Unconditional Love: Miles 36-40
I’m inspired by my three-year-old daughter, Siena. 6:30 a.m. wake up came with soreness and fatigue. I knew this was the big hump to get over, but at this point the lack of sleep and necessary food was taking a toll. I knew I needed a big meal and lots of fluids to bounce back for the final two runs.
“How do you get the best out of someone? You demand it, you don’t accept anything less..but you do it from a position of love. ”
Commitment: Miles 40-44
This run was dedicated to my wife, Toni. Two runs left. This one felt great. In fact, my pace returned to where I was at when I started this challenge. The energy from a big meal, water and knowing this one was the home stretch had me feeling great. Emotions are high. During this run and the one before, I find that my thoughts are bringing emotions out. This is cool in retrospect; seeing the connection of mind, body, and soul.
“If you compromise commitment, trust will fall.”
Me, We: Miles 44-48
This final run felt like a victory lap, and I dedicated it to myself and our community that we all live in. I cranked up the Rocky soundtrack and hit the streets for one final run. The sun was out and it felt almost like a spring day. What a feeling knowing how far I’d gone and how much I accomplished in two days. I wouldn't claim to be better than anyone for finishing this challenge. But, I can tell you I am a better person for having completed it.
“Sometimes in life, you can have the biggest support system around you, and every once in a while, you have to go toe-to-toe with yourself.”