5K

So this year I got back into running.

It's been awhile.

I used to run for exercise in college, but that was Forever ago, and since then I would just do the elliptical and think "ugh" about lacing on some running shoes. Not to mention the knee problems (overuse injuries) I always encountered due to trying to jump back into it too fast.

SO, Let me tell you about this awesome program that can get you off the couch, GRADUALLY, and into shape: Couch to 5K

Mauri, me, and Lisa - Oct. 5K

And a book that will inspire you to run: Born to Run by Christopher McDougall and challenge the way you think about this exercise.

When I started back into things in March, I ran for time--a treadmill kept me on track. I made my goal a Race in May for a skin cancer, since that has affected me personally.

Then, I realized the benefit of the gym we go to where I can drop my kids off and take my cell phone with and run on the trails OUTside! There are some awesome hills that I would try to run weekly as a goal. So much more fun than a treadmill! It is way easier than it sounds with starting out alternating running and walking for 20 minutes 3 times a week.

I grew to LOVE my time outside by myself running through the trees, listening to whatever inspiring music (or nature) I cared to. I could choose to run along a river, by some woods, or in a gorgeous historic neighborhood.

I ran my first 5K in May. Never done a long distance race before. I was more a sprint person as a teenager. Then, another one two weeks later. My final one was this fall on October 30th, after running all summer. It was awesome. You can't tell from the picture but it was cold enough to see our breath when we started out that morning. My time improved by over 2 1/2 minutes! That is amazing to me. I am still a beginner, but I feel so empowered and discovered the fun in running again.

Here's to running in the future! It is harder in the winter now that I am having to retreat indoors. But I have read up on winter running, and may brave the sub-freezing temperatures on of these days to get my outdoor solace back.

So, try it. I dare ya.

You may even join me on one of my barefoot runs come this summer. ;)