I was posed this question and the answer is not a simple one.
My friend, Kassi started running in the summer of 2010 and I can remember in about September, I asked her "Why do you want to run, if someone isn't chasing your a$$". She told me, "I can't explain it to you, if you have to ask, you don't understand." And, I didn't.
My story (as it seems it will be) started back in December of 2010. I woke up one morning and decided that it was time for some major changes in my life. I was a big girl and had been a big girl for 20+ years. I was on cholesterol medicine and just not very healthy. I had a revelation; that my daughter would be getting married soon and I didn't want to be the "Fat Mother-of-the-Bride".
I started walking and watching what I ate-dutifully. I know-right before Christmas? But yes! And I was determined, not like all the other times, when I started and failed-miserably! I joined Weight Watchers in January and the weight was coming off--it was starting to show and people were noticing. That, my friends, is a great feeling!
In March 2011, I had a hysterectomy. I had also hit a plateau with a weight loss of 30 pounds. When it was time for my 6 week checkup, Kassi offered to drive me. On the way there, I said to her, "I can't believe I am going to say this, but, I think I want to run!" I thought that maybe trying to change things up would help me get over my plateau. We talked about starting out with the Couch to 5K. I asked, "What if I can't do what the lady tells me to do-what if I can't run the entire time she tells me to run?" (Keep in mind that day 1-you only run 30 seconds!) Kassi said, "You run what you can---if you can't do it the whole time, do what you can!" My doctor cleared me and told me; yes I could start the Couch to 5K program.
So, still at 190 pounds I picked out some running shoes, plugged in my ear buds and I completed Day 1--JUST LIKE THE LADY TOLD ME TOO! I remember the feeling so well; I felt like Superwoman! I DID IT! It was so empowering! I couldn't wait to tell Kassi and she was so proud of me!
And the rest is history, I have never looked back. I am much healthier. I am happier. I have met so many people that have become a huge part of my life. AND my family is VERY proud of me!
Why do I run?
It makes me feel good, it makes me proud, it makes my family proud of me, it makes me healthy, it helps control my weight, and it creates friendships.
Why do I run?
I run for the people that can't, especially my mom!
Why do I run?
To fit into the Mother-of-the-Bride dress June 1, 2013
Why do I run?
Because my body type is not that of "A Runner"--but I am! Because people may look at me and not believe that "I can do it!"--but I do! Because I wanted to keep up with my kids and now my kids can't keep up with me! :)
Some people think you are crazy if you run.
I can tell you from personal experience, once you run. You really GO crazy if you can't!
So, why do I run---I just do, I just can-and I didn't always believe that.
