So this post is a clarification of my workouts as far as running goes. My main point today:
I WAS NEVER A "RUNNER"!!!!
I thought that it was important to explain that just because I do 5+ miles... it doesn't mean that I always could. Quite the contrary =]
Honestly, up until about 3 years ago, I hated running. I wouldn't even be able to do a mile straight... let alone in under 15 minutes. It was hard for me. Not only did I not enjoy it, I just thought that I wasn't "made" for running. I would try... but seeing how horrible I did would discourage me from continuing to practice.
One day, I decided I wanted to be able to run. It didn't matter how far or how fast... as long as I proved to myself that I can. That Christmas I asked for Nike + sneakers... and I decided that (between the cost and so many tracking options) I had no choice but to start.
Did I run 5 miles my first workout? Of course not! I barely did a mile. But guess what...? I did a mile. Even if I didn't run the entire thing (just a minute or two at a time)... I told myself... "It's a start... you have to start somewhere... and this is your start." It just meant that I'll have to work hard to get better. The next run... I tried to increase the amount of time I ran compared to walking. Then I tried to increase my mileage... and again increase my running/walking ratio. And let me tell you, it took a long time (and a lot of butt-kicking) to get to 5 miles.
My point here... is that runners aren't born runners. Just like any other sport or instrument... you need to practice. The best part about running though... You can progress at your own pace. If you only increase your time by 10 seconds... guess what... that's still progress! Do that 6 times and you shave a minute off!
It's all about baby steps. Anyone can do it. The way I think about it... is if I'm blessed with 2 strong, healthy legs and a healthy heart... I should be grateful and celebrate that fact; Not take it for granted.
So take that first step... no matter how small it may SEEM (keyword seem)... It's still an amazing achievement each and every time. You can all do it!
