Why I Love to Run

When I started running, at age 47, a little over 14 months ago, I had no idea the journey it would start me on.

At that point, I had already released about 20 pounds and I really wanted to get in the best shape of my life.

I didn’t know that running was going to be an integral part of that, but I did know that if this was going to become a reality, I’d have to move my butt.

And so move my butt I did. Little by little.

I remember joining the “Very Beginning Two Milers” group in my beginning running class. I was a rookie, novice, rank beginner--and I freely admit my ignorance related to anything athletic. On that first night, we ran for 30 seconds, walked for 30 seconds, and did that for 20 minutes. And at the end of those 20 minutes, I thought, “I can do this!”

And today, every time I head out the door for a run, I think, “I can do this!”

I love to run because running is very simple. I am by nature a non-athlete. I freely admit I have little natural physical coordination. But running requires little physical coordination other than putting one foot in front of the other. And to me, it feels natural.

I love to run because it makes me happy.

I love to run because it’s a great stress-reliever.

I love to run because running gives me time to think, problem-solve, strategize, and work things out in my head.

I love to run because of the feeling of pride, satisfaction, and accomplishment I have when I get back.

I love to run because I know my body thanks me every time I successfully reach the top of a hill.

I love to run because I’ve met some awesome people through though this sport.

I love to run because I’ve gotten some cool free running shirts from various running groups I’ve been in. I love free stuff!

I love to run because I’ve learned a lot about my muscles, bones, tennis balls (great for hamstring massage), rest, hydration, rolling pins, ligaments, Body Glide, rest, tendons, food, wicking fabrics, rest, protein, massage, ice, sports bras, cold soaks, carbohydrates, rest. . .

I love to run because I have learned a great deal about the power of my mind and the power of visualizing what I want. A running friend said a couple of weeks ago, “Running is 99 percent mental.”

I love to run because I occasionally get a runner’s high, and those endorphins bring me a lot of pleasure!

I love to run because running teaches me patience.

I love to run because running teaches me pacing.

I love to run because running is metaphor for life.

I love to run because it’s fun!

What do you do because it’s fun?

Up Next: Emotional Eating