New whys...

I've been running for a while. Not in the Forest Gump way (I shave every now and then), but in the "throughout the course of human events" kind of way. My reasons have fluctuated and evolved over the years, but have basically remained the same:
I enjoy it.
I like the 'freedom'.
I relish the thought that if it is a good run or a bad run, it is entirely up to ME. I OWN it.

Last evening I coached my first ever running class. Followers will recall that I had approached the town with the idea of teaching an adult (not THAT kind....) running class as part of the Rec Department's summer offerings. The idea was accepted, and here we are! I have received fantastic support from the folks at http://www.upandrunningonline.org/. GU Energy (link) has also provided me with some product samples for participants. Yes, it is only for a 5k, but part as part of the class i want to talk about fuel options that are alternatives to Snickers bars.
During the first part of the class last night, while we were doing introductions and other small talk that typically makes my skin crawl, some of the people started talking about why they decided to spend 3 evenings a week learning how to run. I thought I would share them with you, as perhaps you, too, are looking for reasons to start running or exercising or stop eating so many chalupas or...whatever.

"I have always wanted to run, but never thought that I could. I am tired of thinking that I can't do things that I want to do."
"I used to smoke 2.5 packs a day. I quit last fall, cold turkey. I told myself that if i could quit, I would start to exercise. Here I am. I don't know if I'll be able to even get through the first class, but I am going to give it a try!"
"I am volunteering with Habitat for Humanity this summer, and am hoping that this helps me get into shape!"
"My sister needs to do this for her health. The only way I can be sure that she does it is if I do it with her."

See? Many different reasons to attend the same class, perform the same workouts, and ultimately achieve the goal of running their first 5k this Aug. The journey is going to be quite a bit of fun! Last evening we all completed the training, which will be repeated W and F evenings.

We walked 2.2 miles, with some very light jogging mixed in. Everyone came away smiling, and the one lady who wasn't sure if she'd make it was VERY happy that she had, and is already looking forward to the next session.

Me, too.

Be Well,
Gene