Three, Two, Run : Step 1

I’m going to go out on a limb and speak for everyone when I say that no runner has taken their first strides without disgraceful thoughts or an out of breath cursing at the wind. We all have our reasons for starting: To fit back into our 13 year old short-shorts, health/doctor referrals, to look good, to feel good, relieve stress, to compete, and so on and so forth. For the most part it’s not just one reason, and through consistency, I think those who become truly dedicated slowly acquire a yearn for it.                      

The basic running philosophy is simple:
Lace up your shoes and go.

The reality is, starting (or re-starting) a fitness endeavor tends to bring out excuses and doubts that threaten even the simplest game plan. Suddenly, things like laundry, cleaning out the closet, or washing your car sound more enticing than stepping outside to exercise.


Mental preparation is the biggest step towards becoming a runner. You need to figure out what YOU are running for. What are your long term goals? What are your short term goals? More importantly, you need to learn to set realistic expectations along the way. Ever hear the phrases, “in it for the long run,” “it’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon,” or “pace yourself.” Think about it. Your long term goal(s) will not come easy, and will (most likely) not come fast. There will be good days and there will be bad days. Set backs will come and go. Keep your vision clear, and let that move you forward. The pain you feel today, is nothing compared to the joy you’ll feel....eventually... I promise. Embrace the heavy heartbeats, aching lungs, and perspiration. They are reminders that you are alive. You have a calling and a purpose. Go find it. Don't let the challenge of getting there, be the excuse that keeps you from doing it.

I am by all means not the fastest, prettiest, fittest, smartest or best runner (or human) in the world. I have a million and one flaws and insecurities. I am not where I want to be in life, but I’m not done trying. I never want to stop learning, growing and striving for new endeavors. Running has been such an empowering method for me to gain confidence. I used to think I could use it to run away from stress or fear, but I realized that I could use it to become a better me. Don’t get me wrong, there was a time when I actually hated it, but that’s the beauty of becoming a runner. You have to test and push your boundaries to extents you never knew you were capable of. It teaches us how to move forward during the hardest times. You take chances, and eventually you begin to conquer the doubts that held you back. It doesn’t happen over night, but you learn so much about yourself along the way. 

If you ever find yourself struggling to make it through those tough days, dig deep, and keep this in mind: “Never throw in the towel, use it to wipe off the sweat and keep going.”