As you all know, I have a hard time considering myself a runner. However, sometimes I forget that we have to start somewhere. As part of this year’s bucket list, I’d like you to join me!
When I first started to run, I read a lot of blogs by people who never thought they would be runners, just like me. They are a world of inspiration. That’s how I found Racheal! She’s graciously agreed to write a post on how you, too, can run. Thank you, Racheal, for taking the time to share your story with us!
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Hi Season It Already! readers. I’m Racheal, and I blog over at Running with Racheal.
Like you, I love reading Carrie’s blog and drooling over her food reviews. A few weeks ago, Carrie wrote a guest post on wine tasting for my blog, and I was so appreciative of her expertise. I was excited when she asked me to return the favor as she enjoys her vacation and write about a topic I love – running for beginners.
You can be a runner.
Even though I don’t know you, I know that to be true. How? Because I have the athleticism of a sloth combined with the speed of a turtle and if I can do it, anyone can do it.
No one hated running more than me. I used to have nightmares about running at basketball practice during high school. I despised the cute little cross country girls with their bouncy ponytails, short shorts, and sculpted legs. I knew I couldn’t be like them, so I assumed I couldn’t be a runner.
Then, I started college and moved into a dorm with a track right next door. One day, I decided to go jog 1/3 of a mile. I don’t know what motivated me that day (I am betting it had something to do with being surrounded by beautiful blond sorority girls), but I am so thankful for it. That day changed my life. Fast forward a few years later, I finished my first half marathon.
I didn’t follow any sort of schedule or plan, I just slowly added distance or time as I felt comfortable – 5 minutes here, a half a mile there. It took me over a year to build up to a 5K, but I did. However, if I knew then what I know now, I would have executed the Couch to 5K program. I have seen so many people become kick-butt runners with this schedule and go on to bust out half marathons and sometimes more.
Why should you start running? The list doesn’t stop but here are my Top 5 reasons:
- The rush of endorphins – there really is nothing like the feeling of after giving it all you’ve got.
- Having some alone me-time (I know for some of us that is pretty rare)
- Having the ability to blow off steam another way besides punching someone in the face. This has come to my rescue more than once.
- Improving my health, particularly my cardiovascular health. Lower blood pressure, lower resting heart rate, etc.
- Being able to eat more calories ( I usually prefer those in the form of ice cream)
There are times when I take breaks (like right now during my third trimester of pregnancy) but I still consider myself a runner and fully plan to jump back on the treadmill after I recover from my delivery.
My dream is to run a full marathon. Why don’t you join me?
