Why I Started Running….

I used to HATE running.  And I'm still getting used to it.  I am starting to enjoy it, but it took awhile.  I was a walker.  I would throw on my sneaks and go walking.  But I would have to walk at least an hour or more to get the amount of exercise I really needed.  And an hour was just TOO LONG.  I wanted to get more out of my exercise in a shorter amount of time.  Hey, I'm a mom, with a job and dinners to make, baths to give, the list goes on.  I realized I had to start running. Ugh. Running?! Nooooooo!!!! But if I wanted to get my exercise in rather than skip it, because I didn't "have time"…running was the answer. So I started off slowly.  I followed Melissa Bender's advice for new runners (www.benderfitness.com) and ran for 20 minutes straight. It was HARD. And I struggled.  And I hated it…..I thought "How do people LOVE this???!!"

I decided I also needed a motivator to get me running so I signed up for a 5K recommended by a girlfriend who was running 5K's and having fun doing it. My cousin was also into running, so I started talking to her about it and got her to sign up for the 5K too.  And you know what?  The 5K was actually fun! Even though I was just praying to not pass out in front of everyone.  And I did it in less than 31 minutes! I was very proud of myself.  It was fun running with my friends and a great feeling finishing the race.

This journey of "trying to find the joy in running" began about a year ago. Since then I've been slowly increasing my runs per week.  Now I run about 2-3 times a week for about 35-40 minutes, which is just enough for me. I've found that I want the feeling of accomplishing that run. I feel proud every time I finish :)

So if you hate running or hate walking…..start slowly. Commit to doing 10 minutes straight and keep at it.  It will get easier and you will find something to keep you going. Believe me, I did.

My first 5K --Witch City 5K, Salem Massachusetts (wearing a tutu in my favorite color - RED)

Do you hate/love running? If you're a runner, what do you love about it?