Running was not really my thing. It didn't come easily for me. Though my sister said people who are knock-kneed have the potential to run fast. (Yes, I am one of them.) I've only joined one fun run just for the heck of joining the bandwagon. A 5k run that turned into an almost 1 hour of walk. Good thing, I didn't run fast because I was already a month pregnant that time.
After giving birth, I totally forgot how it feels to be confident. I don't care how I look and how heavy I weighed. Which is something most Moms ignored since all they cared about is taking care of their kids and family.
I came to realized that running isn't just about losing weight. It offers more than just that. It all started 2015 when I bought a new shoes. At first I thought of using it just for fashion however it became a sign for me to use it on a different purpose.
(My first ever running shoes. Roshe Run Teal)
(My first ever running shoes. Roshe Run Teal)
I finally gave in, ran 4k for 9:37 minutes per kilometer, which I think was bad. (Really bad) The next day, I was more motivated, I ran 8.81 kilometers for an hour and 16 minutes. Thus the start of my running goals.
In the beginning my goal was just to lose weight since I weighed 126 pounds. But the more I run, the more I discovered how it changed my life. First, it kept me sane. It's our nature as a human to either fight or flee. The later was always my response. When I wanted to run away from all the stress, running was the answer. Sunrise jog is my favorite. It is a beautiful way to start my day. It helped me clear my thoughts and think about how beautiful life is. (#runningkeepmesane) Second, it improved my health. I work at night so my body is more prone in getting sick. I noticed I got sick less the farther I ran. Just make sure to switch routine so it won't get boring. Third, it made me happier. Based on studies, our body releases Endorphins which is a happy chemical. It reduces stress and boost self-esteem. And I couldn't agree more.
(Create your own playlist that would really make your heart pumping and legs moving.)
(Create your own playlist that would really make your heart pumping and legs moving.)
And the best thing about running is that it's for free. All you need is to find a place where you can go and let loose. Self-discipline, yup that's the word. I know it's hard waking up in the morning or running after work but if you have a goal and you're dedicated in doing it nothing/no one would stop you from running.
(Even if your out of town because of work find time to run even just for an hour.)
(Photo taken when I was in Pampanga for our leadership summit.)
(My sanctuary place in UP.)
To me, running became my teacher. It has taught me that I am capable of so much more than I imagined. That's why I never stopped running. I make it a point that I wouldn't end my week without it or at least go to the gym. Now, I am challenging myself to take it to the next level. I'm training for a half marathon run. I hope I would be able set my goals right. You should try it too and discover how running would change your life. Because that's how I fell in love with running, I hope you do too. :)