Loving the Run

I recently had someone ask me how I was able to switch my mentality from, "I only run if I'm being chased," to actually enjoying it as a regular workout. Since I'm deep into my current training program and just officially registered for my first 8K, I figured this would be a fun topic to write about today!

So, I admit it. I used to despise going to the gym. I also used to sneer at the people I would see as I drove past them running at 7:00 am or running on a cold, snowy day. I didn't get it. After work I was so exhausted, all I wanted to do was crash on the couch, watch some bad reality TV, and enjoy a bowl (or pint) of ice cream. I was a bona fide couch potato. I would occasionally get inspired for a week or two and start a new diet or work out regimen. Sadly, these bouts of motivation never really lasted too long.

About a year ago, my attitude finally shifted. Maybe it was the realization that I'm no longer in my 20's, but I started to really think about my health. I was sick of feeling tired and worn down and basically feeling older than my age. I was also sick of packing on the pounds and started to fear that I might be doing permanent damage to my body. So, I started changing the way I ate. I'm a vegetarian, so luckily I already really enjoy fruits and vegetables. Unfortunately, cookies and ice cream are also vegetarian. So, I started trying to limit the junk I was eating.

This past fall, a coworker and good friend of mine was actually able to talk me into running a 5K with her. She gave me a training program that she had printed out and I nervously agreed. The training program was intense and I felt like I was always sore. After a week or two, I noticed a change. I had more energy. I was sleeping better. I was feeling less anxious and happier! Once I realized the changes running was having on me, it made me more motivated to keep it up. I was also terrified of not being able to make it halfway through the 5K. Fear can be a great motivator as well.

In December, I finished my first 5K. I'm not the fastest runner, but I was amazed at how many people I was able to pass along the race. When I crossed the finish line, I was fighting back tears of happiness. I know it seems corny. It's not like I ran a marathon. But, it was huge accomplishment for me. I wanted that feeling of accomplishment again. I wanted to cross more finish lines. I wanted to feel like I was part of a healthy community. I wanted to keep running.