Running on Inspiration

By FitMom

Last spring a couple of my neighbors started training for a half-marathon. I watched as they ran past my home office window. After several weeks of watching them I couldn’t help but be inspired. I laced up my shoes and headed outside.

I knew two things about running: 1) It worked and 2) I didn’t like it. However, I’d never run with music. The iPod would become my secret weapon. When I cued up the right songs, I was transported by the beat. Just like the good old days of step aerobics class, the steady music propelled my movements. My legs moved forward in a rhythmic and automatic fashion.

Just keep running. Just keep running.

When my neighbors saw me making my first pathetic passes around the block, they cheered me on. Then they lapped me. I longed for the day I could run with them, the REAL runners.

Running got easier. I bought the shoes and then the right ‘moisture wicking’ clothing. I had become a legitimate runner. However, it was clear I would not be running with my friends – in a race or otherwise. I realized that I liked running for its convenience and efficiency. I liked the way it made me feel and the way it made my thighs look. But I had no desire to run longer than three miles, or improve my time. I didn’t feel the need to push myself or prove anything. For a competitive person like me, that was a pleasant surprise.

A few weeks ago I noticed another neighbor started running past my window. Maybe she was inspired by my marathoner friends, or maybe she saw me and knew that if I can do it, anyone can. Now that’s inspiring!

What gets you going?

 

 

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