An Unexpected Love for Running

I strapped on my running shoes, which had never been running a day in their life, and stepped on the treadmill 9 months ago. I started the “couch to 5k” program and could barely run for 60 seconds straight. I was out of shape and 27 pounds heavier. A week into the program, my knees freaked out on the new exercise I was having them do and I had to take a month off. I was determined to complete the program though, so once I started feeling better I re-started the program and kept with it. It wasn’t easy and I honestly hated every single step I took on the treadmill. I begrudgingly went to the gym 3 days a week, after taking care of a precocious toddler all day, and cursed my time there. I hated it, but I knew it was making me healthier. I stuck it out until I finally completed the program.

After completing the program, I gave myself some time off from running and something strange happened. I actually missed my runs. How did that happen?! I started running for fun, if there is such a thing. It became a hobby, if that is even possible. I was running for the love of running. I signed myself up for my first 5k, a crazy mud run with obstacles of all things, and actually completed and survived it. I was officially addicted (did I mention I already signed up for another 5k?). There’s just something about running, with The Black Eyed Peas blasting in your ear, that is mind-clearing and peaceful. It’s up to you to push yourself and when you push past what you thought you could do, it gives you an amazing sense of accomplishment. Plus, it’s cheaper than therapy and better than Prozac.

I recently discovered a love for trail running, with my toddler in tow (check out Katie’s jogging stroller tips). I’m not exactly an outdoorsy person or an extremely graceful person, so saying I love to do anything athletic outdoors is sort of a big deal. I was forced into outdoor running by my mama bootcamp instructor and tripped on a crack in the sidewalk 2 seconds into the run. I picked myself up, bruised knees and ego, and kept going. I was pushed to my limits. We ran 2 miles one way and the only way to get back home was to run 2 miles back. It was a challenge that I was forced to complete and I started looking forward to these runs. Logan, my toddler, loves them too. The trail by our house is full of wildlife and he likes to point out the rabbits and lizards that scurry by us. Who knew that a clumsy, prefers to be indoors, girl would find an unexpected love for running outside.