Why I Run

Today, I was asked by a coworker why I run. Actually, his exact wording was "why the hell would you run when you have a car"? I've been asked this question many times and each time I seem to give a different answer. I guess that's because there are many reasons why I run.

1. I run so I can eat. I discovered that running burns a ton of calories and that runners need carbs to fuel their runs. And I love my carbs!
2. I run so I can think. All that time out there on the roads with no distractions like t.v. or the computer, gives the mind a lot of time to simply think.
3. I run because running requires discipline and honesty. If I don't put the work in, it will be obvious in my performance.
4. I run because I like the muscles that now show in my legs.
5. I run because no other type of exercise has made me feel more alive.
6. I run for the challenge. I really want to see my pace get faster and my distances get longer.
7. I run because it's a wonderful antidepressant.
8. I run because wearing out a pair of running shoes is a cool thing to have done and getting to buy a new pair is exciting!
9. I run to keep my dog healthy and happy (he joins me on most of my runs).
10. And if I'm being totally honest, I run because I like to be a part of a minority that non-runners think are crazy.

Running has become my passion. I refuse to think about being so injured or sick that I can't get out and run. I pray to God that doesn't happen because I'm sure I would fall into a deep funk.

Countdown

It's only six days until my first half marathon and I don't feel ready. For those of you who don't know, a half marathon is 13.1 miles. The furthest I've run at one time is 10.5 miles and those 10.5 miles were tough. I've been (more or less) following an official 16-week plan to get me ready for this race. And I started way more than 16 weeks ago so you would think I'd be way more than ready.

Maybe I can blame my age or the fact that I'm probably 10 to 15 pounds overweight. I can certainly put part of the blame on the things I eat. I would guestimate that I probably eat healthy 84% of the time. Its that 16% that screws up my performance and my training.

So what's the worst thing that (in my mind) will happen on Sunday when I attempt to run 13.1 miles? I'll have to walk part of the course. That may not sound so bad to some people but to someone who has been training for over five months, it's not the desired outcome.

But who knows, maybe I'll surprise even myself and run the race from start to finish. I guess only time will tell.

One thing I know for sure: I WILL FINISH THE RACE. And I will collect my very first medal when I do.

And I'll probably wear the medal to bed that night.