In honor of global running day, I was reflecting on how I came to love running so much and what makes it so special to me.

 

Why I started running– I needed to change up how I was getting in shape, and I didn’t feel that just walking was enough of a challenge for me, so I decided to finally see if I could overcome years of loathing and train for a run an entire 5k. After 2 months of mostly intervals and a few 20 minute jogs, I raced a 5k, no watch, no idea of time or pace, and ran it in 28 minutes 11 seconds.

Irish Road Rover March 2014

Why I kept running– the feeling of crossing the finish line was so awesome and such a boost to my confidence that I wanted to keep going, to keep pushing myself. I kept setting new goals- a longer distance, cutting time from an existing PR, trying trails instead of roads and from there I set my sights on the marathon.

My first 10k: Heartbreak Hill Festival June 2014

Why I no longer loathe running– Once I was able to push through that feeling of discomfort or thinking that I wasn’t cut out to run, I realized that I had been holding myself back from something for a long time, and with hard work and dedication I could actually be good at this. Sometimes the weather is bad but I’ve run in it all- freezing cold, wind, snow, rain and blazing heat. There are days it feels really hard; days where I don’t always feel like doing it; days I’ve wanted to quit mid-run and days that I have actually quit mid-run; but I always come back to it and generally find that after a mile or so I’m so glad I laced up and got out the door. The days that it feels bad but I pushed through those feelings makes it even more significant and makes me appreciate what I am capable of. It’s not always pretty, but digging it when you feel really challenged is so important. Sometimes just showing up is the hardest part. I’ve never not run or finished a race I’ve signed up for and I’m really proud of that.

Mile 12, Maine Coast 13.1

Mile 24, Providence 26.2

Mile 5, Beach to Beacon 10k, 80+ degrees

Why I LOVE running– I have come to love running for so many reasons. It’s the one thing I do for myself. Whether it’s 3 miles or 13, that time is time to zone out, or to really think about what I want in life and how I want to improve myself. I love taking in beautiful scenery when I run: discovering a new trail, an ocean or river view or seeing something funny or random that makes me smile. I love running because of how it helps me feel physically. It has kept me strong, made me more in tune with my body, and kept me healthy. Running has been immense for my mental health. Not only have I found that the endorphins from running can really turn a bad day around in a positive direction, but also the sense of accomplishment and pride in myself for setting new goals and working hard to achieve them. I’ve needed running in my life to help pull me through some of the lowest times.

Shamrock Sprint March 2016, 1st in age group, second female overall

Seeing the clock and achieving a huge PR, Tim’s Run 5k September 2015

Running to catch the sunrise, Cliff Walk, Newport RI February 2015

 

Why I want to share my love of running– I’ve been really pleased that my kids, especially Aidan, have taken an interest in running. It was never anything I pushed on them, but something they love doing, sometimes in short bursts, but sometimes longer. Aidan has done a few kids races, and is signed up for summer track and I’m hoping to volunteer coach the program. I’m so excited to have that special time not only with him but to hopefully foster a love of running with a whole group of children. I also cannot wait to take my coaching certification course this summer and one day help others work towards their running goals and experience the same joy and pride I’ve felt as my running journey has evolved the past few years.

Running with family is the best!