One year ago today, I decided to make a change. I laced up my gym shoes (not running shoes, and should have never been used for running) put on some gym clothes (all cotton, I didn't know any better), and headed out the door to run. I'd never run before. Well, not since high school when they made us run the mile in PE. I think my time was like 15 minutes or something. I was always the last one in, but I didn't care because I had no desire to ever run, until July 20, 2010.
I purchased the Nike+ sensor for my iPhone, knowing that would motivate me to keep running (I love technology, what can I say). That day after work, I put the sensor in my shoe and took off. I remember my lungs burning, my legs aching, and I was only a quarter mile in. So I walked for a bit. Then I ran another quarter mile. I kept at it, totaling 1.76 miles, in 22:57, which was a 12:57/mile pace. I didn't know what that meant but I had run almost 2 miles! I walked into my apartment building and was on a complete runner's high. I was hot, sweaty, bright red, out of breath and exhausted, but I was immediately hooked.
(My first 5K, November 25, 2010)
I went out again the next day, improving my pace and going three quarters of a mile farther. It was so exciting, even from those early days, to see myself improve. My Nike+ system motivated me like no other, as did my small network of running friends.
Since that day, I've never looked back. Running has become my passion, my life. I've run 3 5Ks, 3 10Ks, 2 half marathons and 1 full marathon. I've run over 780 miles. Not every mile has been awesome, not every race has been a PR but I still love every second. Even when I complain, even when it is hard, I remember how much running means to me.
(Solo 10 miler in San Francisco, January 2011)
Over the past year, I have learned so much about running, but I've learned even more about myself. Never in my life have I ever inspired anyone to do anything, except maybe drink another beer and stay out too late. The stories I hear from close friends, or even those long lost Facebook friends I never actually talk to, are my motivation to keep going. Hearing that people started running because of me is still so overwhelming. When anyone asks me for advice or tips, I am floored. I'm so honored to help people become healthy and find their love for the sport of running!
(First half marathon, January 16, 2011)
Running has never really been about weight loss or changing my body. It has been about changing my life, from the inside out. I am so excited to continue on this journey, make myself stronger and help others. Thank you all for following me through this!! I could have never made it this far without the amazing support of my friends and family. Here's to the next year!
(First marathon! LA Marathon, March 20, 2011)
