For me, running is both exercise and a metaphor. Running day after day, piling up the races, bit by bit I raise the bar, and by clearing each level I elevate myself. At least that's why I've put in the effort day after day: to raise my own level. I'm no great runner, by any means. I'm at an ordinary – or perhaps more like mediocre – level. But that's not the point. The point is whether or not I improved over yesterday. In long-distance running the only opponent you have to beat is yourself, the way you used to be.
In Haruki Murakami's book, "What I Talk About When I Talk About Running," he shares his personal relationship with running, viewing it as a dual purpose of physical exercise and self-improvement. Each race and training session serve not only to build endurance but also to encourage personal growth. He emphasizes that the journey is about progress rather than competition against others, focusing on surpassing his previous self rather than achieving greatness as a runner.
Murakami acknowledges that he is an ordinary or even mediocre runner, yet he finds value in the effort he puts into running each day. His ultimate goal is self-elevation, constantly striving to better himself compared to who he was yesterday. For him, the real challenge lies in competing with his own past performances, highlighting the introspective nature of long-distance running.