Think you can't run?

Have I always been a runner?  No.  I was actually an inactive, shy girl growing up.  I was intimidated by trying out for sports or extracurricular activities.  So, I didn’t.  I was that kid that dreaded the mile and fitness tests in gym class.  When I entered middle school, I struggled with self-esteem images and an eating disorder.  I battled my weight throughout adolescence and beyond.  My weight fluctuated with a weight loss support group for years.  And, it wasn’t until after the birth of my first child, that I decided I had to do get active and balance eating well – and being active.  I wanted a well-rounded, healthy lifestyle. 

The first step is the hardest.  I watched a friend compete in Ironman Wisconsin in 2005 and I thought if he could swim, bike and run 140 miles – I could get myself off of the couch and run around the block.  I looked up a couch to 5k program online and trained for my first 5K that fall.  It became the one thing that I did for myself – and I enjoyed it.  Nine months later, I ran my first half marathon.  And, nine years later I have completed 45 half marathons and seven full marathons.

Over the past three years, I have developed Running Diva Mom, a community for Madison-area women to get themselves off the couch and enter an active lifestyle.  My gradual walk/run programs have given women a gentle introduction to running.  It’s been amazing watching these women transform their bodies, minds – and wardrobes – during a short nine weeks.  When they enter the couch to 5K program they think that it is impossible to run three miles, but I prove to them, with a little commitment that they are capable of doing anything.  It’s been amazing sharing my passion with others.

Still think you can’t run?  Well, maybe you should reconsider.

• Running can be a great social activity.  It’s a great way to reconnect with your girlfriends or your spouse.  These can be great mini dates.  It’s also a great way to meet new friends through running groups, like Running Diva Mom.
• It’s a great calorie burner.  You can burn approximately 11 calories/min running vs 5 calories/min walking alone.
• When you are running solo, it can be great time to be alone with your thoughts.  A morning runner can plan their day and review to do lists in their head.  An evening runner can clear their mind and remove frustration from their day.
• Running can be a pretty affordable form of exercise.  If you are a recreational runner, your solo investment is only a good pair of running shoes.
• Explore your community.  Running paths are everywhere.  Running is a great way to explore your hometown and discover new neighborhoods, businesses and parks for your family to visit.
• You can literally run anywhere.  There is never an excuse to skip a workout.  You can use a treadmill, run laps around the soccer field, run in place with your kids and the wii and explore new places on vacation.

And remember – Don’t fear moving forward.  Fear standing still.