11 Reasons Why You Should Start Running
New runners—there are so many amazing reasons to get moving.
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I used to believe that in order to be a runner, you had to be born a runner. Running was anything but easy for me. Instead of patiently working through the pain and discomfort that comes with being a new runner (or anything new for that matter), I convinced myself that running was awful and impossible.
That was until I became just desperate enough to want to physically run from my problems. I was grieving the loss of my brother, struggling with my weight after losing over 75 pounds, and feeling directionless after graduating from college. It’s like the old saying goes—when life gives you lemons, start running! It turns out that running is one of the best ways to get through tough times! Don’t believe me? Here are 11 reasons why you should start running.
1. If you’re looking to make new friends.
Running is an INCREDIBLE way to meet interesting, driven, and fun new friends! Check to see if an athletic store in your area offers group runs (think:Lululemon) or check out a free fitness movement like November Project! Don’t feel intimidated about your pace or fitness level. Everyone has to start somewhere. We’ve all been there—you won’t get left behind!
2. If you are newly single.
If you’re feeling down after a breakup, put the wine down, pause Netflix, and go for a run! If I had a dollar for every person I met who started running because of a breakup, I would be able to retire. And can I just say, running into your ex after you’ve run a half marathon or marathon is one of the best feelings in the world! Let that be the fuel that lights your fire!
3. If you are feeling anxious or stressed.
Life’s tough! It’s rarely easy, fair, or fun! If you are being eaten alive by anxiety or stress, become a runner. Ever heard of a runner’s high? It’s a real thing! And you may find that nothing is better to clear your head. I do my best brainstorming and problem solving when I run.
4. If you are stuck in a rut.
Now flip the table! If you’re feeling stuck and need a change, set a goal, sign up for a race, and run towards it! There’s no better way to work through a transition than to run through it.
5. If you crave alone time.
Let’s be honest, who doesn’t need some alone time? (I’m looking at you, busy moms!)
6. If you spend too much money going out.
Looking for a way to cut back on happy hours and expensive dinners? I’m going to give you one of the best excuses in the whole world. Ready? “I can’t. I have to run in the morning.” (DISCLAIMER: Side effects may include you turning into a total and complete runhole.)
7. If you’re looking for a way to feel good about yourself.
It is physically impossible to cross a finish line and not feel proud.
8. If you are going through a difficult time.
When I grieve, I have a hard time staying motivated. I just want to get in bed, pull the covers over my head, and sleep until my heart stops feeling like it’s going to explode. Running has become an invaluable resource when I start to slip into the rabbit hole. Sometimes the last thing I want to do when I’m going through a difficult time is go out in public. When that happens, I throw on a hat and some sunglasses and get going. Sweat, fresh air and physically moving forward won’t fix your problems but it most certainly helps.
9. If you want to get healthy.
Will you lose a ton of weight if you start running? Maybe. How healthy is your diet? When I started running, I was convinced I was going to drop 20 pounds and have the body I always thought I needed. 5 marathons later, I didn’t lose 20 pounds but I do feel incredible about my body! You can’t outrun a bad diet but running will help you feel in control and proud of the body you work really hard for.
10. If you enjoy eating.
And on the flip side, do you like being able to eat a guilt free slice of pizza? Boom. Thank you running!
11. If you are human.
You don’t have to be born a runner, athletic or in shape to become a runner. Runners come in all different ages, sizes, ethnicities and economic backgrounds. All you need to do is stick with it for a few short weeks until you’re strong enough to run without feeling like you’re going to die.
The running community is probably the most inclusive group in the world and we want you! Try a couch to 5k challenge or join a charity to train for a half marathon! You won’t regret it. Until next time, #RunSelfieRepeat.
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