Why Run?
I have been solidly running for years. Since my kids were little. When my kids would ask "where are you going?" I would answer, running. "Why?" was the inevitable next question. I think back to when I would see runners out on the road and think "they are crazy." So how did I get, here?
I needed a change, an answer, someplace my mind could go. Somehow I started to walk. It is now 10 years later. I will tell you, every day while I lace up is the hardest part of the run. I'm
still tired from yesterday's run, I have a lot to do today, my leg
hurts, I need a new pair of sneakers, the weather isn't great, or maybe
its 10 degrees! Really aren't I just going to wind up in the same place, having run in a wide circle anyway? The reason I go is pure joy, the joy that comes from this solitary form of exercise.
While one leg chases the other you get to know yourself. Not for how others see you, not for what you do in your life, but for who you are, who you want to be. It is a re-connection to yourself. Pushing through the loneliness and the aloneness of being on the road, there starts to be a feeling of elatedness. No
matter what has been going on back in my life, no matter what I will go
home to good or bad, an overwhelming feeling of well-being begins to
grow. I am strong! It is this that keeps me, and all the runners out there coming back for more. To me this is the true benefit of running.
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However here are some additional benefits you get when you add this form of exercise to your regime.
1. Studies show that running reduces the risks of illness from colds to cancer.
2. Running is a great stress reliever.
3. Running is a weight bearing exercise,
therefore helping with osteoporosis.
4. Running is an extremely efficient way to burn calories, generally burning 100 calories a mile.
5. Running improves your oxygen flow.
6. Running causes happiness.
If you want to get started there are many ways. The first is to just decide that today is the day. Start with the intention to walk. Then add increments of jogging. For example: set your intention of walking for 20 minutes and during that time add every 5 minutes, 90 seconds of running. Here is a link to a great app to put on your phone. (or just use it on the computer)
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http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml it's called Couch to 5K. (5k is 3.1 miles)
Who wants to start? I would love to hear your story.
