Thursday, May 21, 2009

I'm a Runner.... I'm really a Runner

O.K. Maybe not a real true Runner, but I can officially say I'm a runner. A little background, I had never ran more than 2 miles without stopping in my life. Those 2 miles were ran when I was 14 and I only did it because I was running with my sister and a way older guy that I had a crush on. It just about killed me!!

So anyways, I've always exercised but never ran. I either walk, do aerobics, elliptical, stair stepper, Zumba (My Fave) or anything else but running. Well about 2 months ago when I was at the gym, I decided to try and run a mile. I did it. Then I went 2 miles, then 3, and I just ran 4 miles today for the first time. I seriously can't believe it!! I've always just said that "I'M NOT A RUNNER" I just didn't think I had it in me.

So here's my theory, I think that because I was working out every morning for 3 months straight I built up my endurance and made my heart stronger. I also realized that if you can just make it through the first 10 minutes you really do get a 2nd wind and feel like you can go forever. Many people have told me this, but I've never been able to get past the first 10 minutes :) Even still, EVERY SINGLE TIME I start running, I ALWAYS want to quit for the first 10 minutes, but I force myself to keep going and sure enough I always get my 2nd wind.

I hope to run a 5K, 10K, and eventually a half Marathon. Not sure if the 1/2 will happen this summer or not. I hope to do a triathlon in September.

So to all you NON-RUNNERS out there, that might wish you could run, I'm here to tell you that you can!! If I (the non-runner) can do it, YOU CAN TOO!!

And to all you 1/2 and full marathon runners out there that are laughing at this post, I hope to be like you one day :)

9 comments:

Andrea said...

Ok so I must say that I am proud of you. I DESPISE running. Having a set of "twins" like I have, it makes this activity absolutely torturous! And I mean that! I could wear 3 sports bras and use a roll of duct tape and would still hurt for 3 days after!! But... glad you will benefit from this healthy way of exercising! I however, will stick to the stair climber and zumba!

Amber said...

Good for you! I want to be a runner, but need to get motivated. I also would really like to try a zumba class!

Allison said...

WAHOO!! I am so impressed Shelley (though not surprised at all!). I CANNOT wait for September. Bring on the pool, the spokes, and the pavement. Triathlon.....check!

Nelson said...

I am so proud of you!
I too try to run, but I'm not that great at it. 3 miles is my comfort zone, and I don't push myself further like you. You are inspiring!

Erin said...

You give me hope! I want to be a runner, but after 1 mile I feel like I'm going to die!! After this baby is born I plan to start running and am committing to a 10k next May. It's seems so hard and mirserable just THINKING about running 6 miles, but I'm excited to give it a try!

Amber said...

When on earth are you able to go? Proud of you!

Mimi said...

Check you out!! Brittany is a runner now too!! You guys are my heros! I was telling her that I can't remember running a miles since high school. Does running around the gym before drill team count? I think we only had to do like 5 laps or something...but IT COUNTS OK!!!

I really should try it- I just don't want to pass out on the track, and have someone start doing CPR, and break my ribs, and blah blah blah- I think I may have a problem :-) Therapist anyone?

so... have fun running ;-) I am super proud of you and wish I was accomplishing something too! Can't wait for the 1/2 marathon post- YOU CAN DO IT!!

Lisa said...

K Shelley,
I'm doing a 10k on July 4th. Are you up to doing it?
Lisa

Unknown said...

I'm so glad you're running! I miss running, and wish I hadn't messed up my knee in high school track -- cuz I'd still be doing it. Enjoy it!