Why I Do It: 3 Compelling Reasons to Run

Blog-vember Day 15 --Blooming Prejippie Zine

I started my running journey about two years ago. I looked in the mirror; I got on the scale and I didn’t like what I saw. I knew I had to do something to win the battle of the bulge. It was then that I made this vow to myself; even if this something only stopped me from gaining more; even if it did not result in losing one pound, it had to be something I could continually do.

Once my mind was set, I got on my treadmill and started alternating between walking and trotting. Eventually, it became alternating between walking and running. About a year in, I was able to run a little over 3 miles non-stop. Last year, I ran my first 5k.

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Being a part of the 5k run exposed me to the joys of running outside. Indeed, once the weather started warming, I began to run outside every weekend. I was hooked on it! And anytime I could, I was running outside. Even when we went to Toronto over the July 4th weekend, I ran outside on the Riverfront every morning that we were there. I did the same thing even when we went to hot and steamy Memphis, Tennessee. I put so many miles on these old legs this summer that I realized I was in good enough shape to run a half marathon, which I did in October (The Detroit Free Press Marathon).

Running has now become a way of life for me now. I run every day.

Here are three reasons why I do it:

1. I love to eat, so running helps me win the battle if the bulge. (See our “Burn Before the Buns” post.)

2. Running every morning allows me to start each day off with a victory. I rarely feel like doing it when I wake up early in the morning—especially if I’m going to be running on a treadmill. However, once I get going and I either meet, or surpass, my running goal, it gives me such a sense of accomplishment. This is great way to start any day.

3. Running is cathartic (especially when I’m outside). It is truly a spiritual experience. There is oneness with nature that I feel when I am pushing my body, soul and mind to the limits. I really feel this on my longer outside runs. Running long distances is trying, both mentally and physically.

These may be compelling reasons for you to do the same. If your goals match mine in any way, then perhaps you may want to take up running as well.

I’m saying all this while we are preparing to run the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning. We are going to take our family running/walking show on the road. Literally. I am pumped and looking forward to it.