Running has been relegated to a means to an end. Ever since I started bouldering in February 2024, “commuting runs” have comprised the vast majority of my running efforts. 

My usual 6-mile run commute cycle consists of a 1.3-mile unladen run to the climbing gym, 1.3 miles back, 0.4 miles to work with a small backpack full of food and gear, a 0.9-mile urgent run from the hospital to New Haven’s Union Station for the 11:24 pm train, and then a 2.1 mile run from NYC’s Grand Central Terminal to home, usually from 1:30-1:47 am.

 I recognize the absurdity of squeezing in a 2-mile run right before bed, but why not? I see no prohibitive downsides. It’s safe, I’m physically capable, and I can fall asleep quickly afterwards. An 8 min/mile run is a decent workout, it’s faster than waiting for lengthy night-time subway intervals, and it’s cheaper than a $25–30 taxi. Thus, it becomes reasonable—if not logical—to commute by running.

So I run to work. I run the 0.8 miles between the two hospital campuses in town. I run to the supermarket (but walk back; groceries are heavy), and I run almost everywhere else I go in New Haven (as a New Yorker flailing outside the city; thanks to my co-fellows for carpooling and for covering my Trumbull shifts 21 miles away). I often run from GCT to home no matter the hour so long as the weather is conducive, 55°F or cooler. This is why winter is my favorite season; passive cooling prevents me from arriving as a sweaty mess.

I’m glad I can do this! When I started running in 2014, primary motivators were cardiovascular health and—this is key—practical mobility. In 2016 I got sucked into trying to run really fast, but honestly, only being capable of running while wearing ultra-light running techwear carrying nothing but a 6-oz phone felt contrived. Having my running training benefit general endurance, more powerful hiking, and navigating NYC on foot is more fulfilling. 

Dynamically tightening shoulder straps are key. So is my windbreaker, acting a sheddable layer that’s light to carry. My Allbirds Tree Dashers have served as running shoes which are passable hospital footwear. My carrying capacity has increased to 5–10 pounds, still a paltry load compared to those of military personnel or ruckers, but it’s enough for my purposes. 

That being said, admittedly I take pride in the impracticality of some of my practical runs. 3.8 miles at 7:05 pace across the Queensboro Bridge while carrying my climbing shoes. 5.5 miles at 14:00-pace speedwalking in a suit to a gala. 10 miles in jeans from downtown Seattle to Lake City. It’s been fun.