Running has done a lot for me. For one, I am in better shape now than probably any other point as an adult. Sure, I played softball and did some other activities, but I hadn’t exercised on a consistent basis since high school.
Along with being in better shape, I have lost weight. I was never heavy, but, according to the Body Mass Index calculators you see everywhere, I was right on the border of being what they consider “overweight” about 18 months ago. Really, I was skinny with a big butt and big gut. Now, I am right in the middle of “normal weight” and am down over 25 pounds from my heaviest point, and down 18 pounds from one year ago.
Better shape + less weight = running faster (I think Einstein thought up that one). While I have a long way to go, I am seeing evidence of regular improvement. In the 5k, I am 8 minutes faster now than I was (when I thought I could race with no problem) a couple years ago, and almost 6 minutes faster than my first race last year. I while I don’t really have multiple races at other distances, my training runs are faster now than last fall, using the same perceived effort.
Not only can I run faster, but farther. I never really aspired to do any races beyond 5k a year ago. Now, it isn’t a big deal to run 7 – 12 miles on a weekend run. I’m getting ready for my 2nd 10k and my 2nd half marathon later this month and plan to do races of multiple distances (5k, 10k and half marathons) during the year. While I know I could do it now with a few weeks training, I’ve pretty much decided that I want my first marathon to be the 2013 Chicago Marathon.
Other things that running does for me include relief of stress, increased confidence and better self-image, and it gives me a healthy interest in competition. I like to race. Races are the payoff for the hard work, and I am enjoying the work and effort I am putting forth, so I really like to race! I also like that, strangely to me, I have apparently been a good influence on a few other people.
A lot of people say this, but it is because they mean it: “If I can do it, anyone can”. Within reason, it is very true! Maybe you’re not cut out to run. You can swim, walk, ride, climb, crawl, lift, squat, thrust, repeat… whatever your passion is. I don’t hear of many people who get active again regret it. They might fall out of it (and with all the activities in one’s life, that is easy to do), but I don’t hear people grumble how much time they wasted being active.
In conclusion, thanks to everyone for their support! Thanks to Amy, Matt, Andraya, Michelle, Teresa, Amanda, Megan, Mike, Cathy and everyone else who has supported and encouraged me during the past year! It is greatly appreciated!
(They) say you only improve for the first 7 – 10 years after you start running. Well, I have 6-9 years left to get better. Let’s get after it!
Happy running anniversary! I'm so glad that it's done so much for you and I'm excited to see where it takes you, mr. speedy!
ReplyDeleteYes, Happy running anniversary. Losing those 25 pounds is amazing, and the getting faster (and further) part is all part of the benefit package. You've come a long way in this year, and have a lot to look forward to. I look forward to reading about your successes (and all the other "stuff" that happens to us all as well) !
ReplyDeleteIt's been a big year for you and your progress has been impressive. I know exactly what you are saying when you talk about "If I can do it, anyone can." It's so true. We weren't designed to sit on the couch! What I love the most is when someone realizes they CAN DO IT. To see the transformation as they slowly replace the fear of doubt with belief in themselves...it's a glorious sight. When you are absolutely true to yourself in all you do its a winning system 100% of the time.
ReplyDeleteI also knew the question of your first marathon was never "if" but rather "when". Chicago will be a great race!