Why running?

Why are you a runner?  Of all the sports and workouts, why do you choose running? 

Running is one of the hardest sports on your body.  Your feet ache, you feel shooting pains in your knees, your head is spinning, your stomach is turning—and this is all after just a long training run.  Race day can be even worse.  Yet here we are, eagerly lining up for the next race.

There are plenty of other sports to choose from.  Team sports offer comradely of teammates.   Football, baseball/softball and volleyball are fun to play, but also great workouts.  If solo sports are more your thing, swimming and biking are great options.    Popular workout classes like Zumba and Turbo Kick are very hot right now. 

Out of all of these sports, some would say (me included) that running is the most intense.  But that is what I love about it!  It’s a pain versus pleasure thing.  You know--runners high.  We put up with all the pain because the payoff is so great.  The feeling of crossing a finish line is so rewarding that we put up with all the pain.  We love the challenge of pushing harder and faster!

I have never been a great runner.  I was a softball player growing up and in college.  I was also a high school cheerleader.  I loved every minute of both.  Nailing a tough stunt felt amazing, but it was a team victory. Now, when I get a PR, it’s all me!  When I hit the gym on a nonrunning day, I usually take a group exercise class.  I am the spin queen and I love Turbo Kick, but there is no feeling of accomplishment when I finish.  When I run, I can win every time.

So why do I run?  I run for me!  As many of you know, I have a special needs daughter that takes up most of my time.  My life revolves around her care and her doctor and therapy appointments.  I love being her mom and would not give it up for anything in the world, but when I run, it’s me time!  For a little while anyway, I can truly run from all my problems. 

A dream is a wish.....

--Amy