Introduction Part I of III: Running
There was a time in my life when I hated running. Running in high school was a form of punishment for not winning a game the night before. I saw running as a means to an end and prayed for the hellacious pain to be over as quickly as possible so I could commiserate with my best friends over a high-calorie sizzlin’ fajita plate.
While I still enjoy a good sizzlin’ fajita plate, over the years I began to unlock the secret joy of running. As a postgrad attempting to navigate my twenties, running became precious time to unwind and reflect. As time went on, I participated in several 5Ks and finally, my first half marathon in February 2016, the Disney Princess Half Marathon in Walt Disney World.
For those of you who want to get started, but are embarrassed or not sure how, I’d love for you to join me in my running journey. Whether your goal is to run one minute or one hour (or more!) setting a goal is the first and most important step. I think the perception is that you have to be skinny with long limbs to appreciate running, but the truth is, and to quote my friend Bruce Springsteen, we were all born to run. If you have the personal drive and willingness to work hard, anyone can find their own love of running within. Yes, it is hard work, and progress is gradual, but this is the magic of running: it all stems from physical, emotional and mental strength; strength your mind and body are ready to unleash. Let’s do this together!
“When I first started running, I was so embarrassed I’d walk when cars passed me. I’d pretend I was looking at the flowers.” – Joan Benoit Samuelson, 1984 Olympic Gold Medalist, The first female marathon Olympian
1 Comment