Running has been one of the most freeing experiences for me. Developing the ability to just keep moving forward for extended periods of time, seeing incremental progress, and finding new ways to improve is so empowering. I started running around a year ago to lose weight. Since then, I’ve fallen in love with how the sport made me feel, the sense of community, and seeing everyone else out running along and encouraging each other. I am still trying to lose weight, but not working as intensely for it. I’ve dropped about 50 lbs since I got into the sport and I recognize that my body now needs time to compensate and rebuild. Once I feel more comfortable with those adjustments I may explore more of what my body is capable of but until then I’m content with enjoying things solely for the love of movement.
While I am not training as intensely at this time due to my focus being more on enjoying the movement, I am planning to do the Mistletoe Half in December. My “A” goal is to have fun with the experience! I have worked my way to building my runs between 9-12 miles with the intention that the actual race won’t be a big leap in mileage for me.
I think if given the opportunity, everyone should take up running for at least a little bit. It’s not the most fun activity at first (you WILL feel out of breath) and there’s definitely a learning curve to it. However, once you start reaching your goals, like being able to talk the whole way through a run or even something simple like running a 5K, you’ll feel the euphoria and it gets you hooked. On that note, a great place to start is with the Twin City Track Club’s $5 5K series. I’m not the biggest fan of running 5Ks but the course is really nice and it’s wild to see how many people come out for these. It’s always an amazing time!