Fairy Healthy Life

Why I Run

Ever since Saturday morning, I woke up thinking I really need to speed up my long runs. Determination was the name of the game on Sunday. With the past 3 weeks I went from running an average speed of 5.3 mph to 6.5 mph! That is such a huge difference for me. In the past two months I had my “runner’s knee” and a cold that set me back.  It upset me, but I was determined to heal as fast as possible and get back to running.

Mile 1: 10:40 min/mi

Mile 2: 9:38 min/mi

Mile 3: 9:52 min/mi

Mile 4: 9:32 min/mi

Mile 5: 9:17 min/mi

Mile 6: 9:10 min/mi

Mile 7: 9:21 min/mi

Mile 8: 10:07 min/mi

Mile 9: 9:28 min/mi

I started out running to lose weight. I remember when I couldn’t run one mile without stopping. It was such a struggle for me. I had pain everywhere. I told myself just to keep going and when I start losing weight it will be easier. It did become easier and actually FUN. I loved seeing how fast a could run a mile, a 5k, then working in hills, and of course finishing a half-marathon. Finishing that half-marathon was the most fun I’ve had so far. I loved watching the musicians playing in the streets, the volunteers’ kindness, and of course seeing the pride in my beautiful family as they were cheering me on so proudly. I seriously didn’t know they supported me that much.

I still sit back and think, “ Did I just really run 13 miles without stopping?”. It really is crazy to me. I don’t know how I do it, I just do. It has become a part of my life that I will always embrace. Running is my “me” time. Even if I am very busy taking care of my family, I find the time to exercise or run. Waking up very early lets me get it done. Running is a priority because it gives me the energy to power through the rest of my day.

I love the running community. They are great people and some are now my friends. They always offer tips, advice but at the same time support you without judgments.

Running gear is my weakness. It’s pretty bad!

Finding new outfits for each season is so fun; shorts, pants, capris, sports bras, moisture-wicking fabric are a few of my favorite things in life.

Whenever I get a new pair of running shoes or outfit it motivates me to go out and test it out and therefore keeps me fit.

I love pushing my body and mind to reach new goals and accomplishments even though it’s not what I initially planned. I only compete against myself. Of course there are so many people running longer and faster than I do, and I’m completely fine with that. I cheer them on and admire them. It takes a lot to run as far as they do. I’m proud of myself and all that I’ve accomplished. I used to have so much pain in my feet from carrying around so much extra weight and that was the worst feeling ever; both mentally and physically.

I know that I don’t need to run that much. I know I don’t need to lose anymore weight. It is more than that to me. I am showing my girls an example that you can push yourself to do whatever you want. Your goals are for you to find out how strong you are.

Running on Sundays is my favorite day to run because it lets me know if the interval runs and weight training during the week is helping me to become a better runner.

I can definitely feel the difference in my core, especially during those tough hills. Speed runs work to make each mile I run a little bit faster. This is how I never get bored working out each week. I know each workout is making me stronger and faster for my body and mind as well.

Why do you run?