Growing up I was active in sports, but I hated running. As I’ve gotten older I have really fell in love with running, and it is now a HUGE passion of mine. I started running consistently about 4 years ago as a way to stay active. I’m now addicted to it. I’m eating cleaner than I ever have, and I’m incorporating more weight training and starting a little yoga too. One of my goals right now is to be as healthy and fit as I can be.
Why I love running:
The View – Running is a great way to see new places. A lot of excersise has to happen in a confined space, but running gets you out. When I travel I love planning out my running route through different places because there is no better way to see a city.
My favorite place to run is Central Park.
Shape – As I mentioned at the top of the post, I’ve become serious about fitness and health. I love knowing every step I take on a run is a step towards being in shape. I’m not where I want to be in fitness but I’ve come a long way since I started running.
Challenge – I love challenging myself and reaching new plateaus in life. Running my first marathon over a year ago was the hardest thing i’ve ever done in my life, but I did it. The training was brutal but it was well worth it. Everyone should have health goals.
Mental Benefits – On the days I run I can honestly say my mood is better, my attitude is better, and I feel more energetic. After really getting into running I started noticing how great I would feel during the run and throughout the day. Running has obvious psychological benefits. The endorphins that are released during a run help to treat depression and other psychological disorders. Running can help you feel less fatigued, depressed, and tense throughout the day. Running is like taking happy pills!
If you want to start running consistently here are a few tips
1. Good Shoes – No two pairs of shoes are the same. The running shoes you see in stores are actually made for different types of runners. If you get the wrong shoe you could hurt yourself…for real! I would recommend going to a running store and have them fit you. They should measure your foot, watch you walk and run, and then they will recommend a shoe.
2. Clothing – Again, when I first started I thought any shirt and any pair of socks would do. As a beginner I would wear a cotton shirt and I quickly learned never to do this again! Cotton is heavy and has a lot of friction on your body while you are running. A good shirt will reduce friction and “wick” moisture away. When a shirt wicks it moves the heat and moisture away from the skin. For these same reasons you will need a good pair of socks. These Thorlo
3. Plan – As with anything, I think a realistic plan is always helpful. What are you wanting to get out of running? Also, are you wanting to compete in a race? Typically you can find online running plans for different race lengths. I would recommend starting small with a 5k.
Enough reading go hit the pavement!
My dream runs – NYC marathon, Disney marathon, Chicago marathon, something on the West Cost and an international marathon
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