I wasn't even running in yesterday's marathon and my anticipation and excitement woke me up at 4:00 am. With my umbrella and Starbucks in tow, I planted myself on the sidewalk with friends at 7:00 am to root for some friends who were running the Flying Swine marathon. (Yeah, I know that's not what it's called - I do live here! I just don't want peeps finding me by googling the actual marathon name...)
I was blown away. I haven't been this inspired and awed in a long time. I was speechless as I watched these athletes determined to cross the finish line. I kept thinking of all the training, all the things they must've sacrificed to get to this point. I saw couples, siblings, friends, and single runners all with the common goal, and I was moved. And when I saw my friends approaching, covered in a mixture of perspiration and spring rain, I felt so much respect for them. They were smiling. They were thrilled to see us.
It really made me want to start running and train for something. But I have to confess; running scares the shite out of me. It's the one thing that I've never seemed to master. I can dance, box, play sports, hike, swim, etc. but I can't seem to get my lungs or mentality to hold out.
I think I avoid running because I think deep down I couldn't do it, or rather, I wouldn't be able to finish. Definitely some things to think about...
5 comments:
I, too, used to be afraid of the running. Then I signed up for a 5K. And I loved it. So - sign up for a low-key 5K - like race for the cure or something. My first goal was to finish. It wasn't until my 3rd 5K that my goal was 'finish the whole thing w/o walking.' Now? Three years later & I'm training for my 1st marathon. The Couch to 5K program can be a good resource (although I must made up my own program - I'm spontaneous like that): http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml
You can do it. I agree with Gazelle, sign up for a 5k. The feeling of accomplishment from doing something you didn't think you could do is all the motivation you will need to sign up for your next race and go a little faster or run a little further. Pretty soon a marathon won't seem so impossible. You will feel strong and empowered.
Don't ever be afraid to try and to push yourself!!! Start out slow. A 5k is what got me hooked.
ditto to POM. Start with a 5k.
You can totally do it. (Unless you keep thinking you can't! ;)
Running. I think most people feel that way in the beginning. Good luck with your decision to start - and not to pressure you - do it! It's awesome.
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What say you, me lovelies?