National Running Day.

by

Subtitle:  Yes, People Im totally doing another half marathon. While DISNEY didnt exactly create a running addict Im kindasorta looking for a new goal and, well, another half appears to be the way I am choosing to go. OH, and Ive totally DRAGGED this woman in to join me as well. Im STOKED about that as she’s never run more than a 5k so I totally plan to harness her runningEXCITEMENT as we train together virtually.  The thing is we arent  yet sure which race we are doing (could be in TX? could be in LV? we’re all over the map at this point) and as soon as we know Ill announce it here as I plan to drag as MANYMANY of you as I can along with us to run/walk or merely MEET-UP wherever we end up racing.  In fact, lets put this whole announcement thing on hold till I have more details.  I got a little overly filled with zeal on this NATIONAL RUNNING DAY.  My apologies. Please to ignore this.

Welcome to National Running Day misfit-style.

(Please to enjoy my musings on the activity I love to hate.**)

I have to admit I’d always been jealous of runners. As a woman who pretty regularly got her cardio by way of machines (most recently I’d been in a recumbent bike rut. Same machine. Used for years. Plateau anyone?), the ease of yanking on a pair of shoes and taking off was quite alluring.

In my mind I aspired to be the woman who ran her own ‘hood with such regularity the neighbors wondered if she even owned a car.

I longed to be the business traveler who tossed sneakers in her carry-on and looked forward to long explorative jaunts running through new cities.

In reality, though, I was neither of these women.

My neighbors were well aware I owned a vehicle, and I tended toward taking a workout hiatus if the hotel in which I stayed didn’t have an on premises gym.

Flash forward to New Years 2009 when I chatted with a client and (again) encouraged her to take the next 365 days and loosen her attachment to her self-definition.

And it hit me.

Practice what I preach much?

It was on that day I finally took the first step–quite literally–on the long road to becoming a runner.

A road I’m huffing and puffing down even as I encourage you to join me along the way.

Running has been a welcome change in my workout routine (mentally and physically) for a few specific reasons:

Running is free. In today’s economy this was a huge selling point to me. I was ready for a change and running meant I didn’t have to join a gym or purchase an expensive new piece of home workout equipment.

Running is the most time-efficient way to increase your cardiovascular fitness. While I liked the ability to multi-task my bike afforded me (I was notorious for returning emails, reading magazines & tweeting whilst doing my cardio) I am far happier working out for shorter periods of time (I’m also notorious for the fact that cardio isn’t my fave piece of the workout puzzle.). I’m adoring getting more bang for my workout buck.

Running is easy! OK now that I have your attention, I am, indeed, going to add that it’s only easy to facilitate (just step outside!) and easy to start (only sneakers needed!). The process of the run? I’m nowhere near deeming that piece easy…yet.

Running is social. This aspect has been one of my favorite parts of deeming myself a runner. Not only are there running groups, but there are also myriad online chat-boards, magazines, races, forums etc. This interaction and support is definitely a piece of motivation I missed out on as I recumbent biked alone in my house.

Running increases self-esteem. While exercise in general increases self-esteem because we both feel and look better, running has truly changed how I view myself. I feel more confident in all areas of my life because I am continually setting new goals (walk less than I did the previous workout session; sign up to run a 5K, etc.) and achieving them. In addition, I’ve found there’s something behind the runner’s high I’d heard about for so many years.

So there you have it. Look better. Feel better. Save time. Save money. Run!

Today’s the day, People.

Start small (perhaps just read this or this), take a baby-step (run up a flight of stairs or jog to the mailbox) or get plain ole CRAZY all Im asking is you step out of your home (and your comfort zone) and join me.

**Parts of this post first ran at Glamour.com

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Comments

  1. I didn’t know it was National Running day!
    I picked the wrong day to blow off my run.

    Is that you in the picture?

  2. I want to like running because it is free and I am broke!

    I giggle that you say run to t he mailbox, yet that’s about my speed these days.

  4. I can not remember where I heard you say it (maybe on a podcast?) but you suggested doing a walking book group.

    I loved that idea and started on in my neighborhood.

    It isn’t running but….

  5. You and Bookieboo can come to Philly!! I’m doing The Philadelphia Marathon in Nov (just the half – notice how I say “just” like it’s no big thang -LOL!!!). God, I hope I don’t die. If you guys were there you could call 911 for me! Now, that is a good enough reason as any to come to Philly, right? 😉

    Anyway, congrats to you both! Looking forward to virtually training along with you 🙂

  6. You and Bookieboo can come to Philly!! I’m doing The Philadelphia Marathon in Nov (just the half – notice how I say “just” like it’s no big thang -LOL!!!). God, I hope I don’t die. If you guys were there you could call 911 for me! Now, that is a good enough reason as any to come to Philly, right? 😉

    Anyway, congrats to you both! Looking forward to virtually training along with you 🙂

  7. Oh and if you do the Las Vegas ROck and Roll half I will join you there!!

    When are you deciding?

    That’s a badass course, Miz.

  8. I <3 how I feel after a good run. I didn't realize it was national running day! Luckily I'm off from teaching toda…I think a run is in store. Hope the weather cooperates

  9. i love running soooooooooooooo much! After the 10k triumph i now have my sights set firmly on a half! How fun!! GO CARLA GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!xxxx

  11. You crack me the hell up with the crossed out stuff.

    I live near Galveston and would come watch you!
    Do that one!!!

  12. I love running! And I had no idea that it was national running day! This is a great post. The one thing that I would add is that it does take time to fall in love with running, or at least it did for me. My first year of running was filled with griping, pain, and a general sense of it being an activity meant for the insane. But then something happened…now running is something that I am passionate about, take comfort in, and do because it feels great. I’m 31 years old, and I’ve been running for 19 years now.

  13. Loved the easy part…especially since you said “easy to start (only sneakers needed!)”. I was thinking no shorts? No tank? NO tutu? LOL

    I WILL run a little of my walk(doing the 5K tonight)today…all in the name of Miz! AKA Carla…who rocks the Fitness world!

  14. I’m jealous of runners, too. Funny thing is, I never had the desire to run until I injured my knees. Now that I can’t I want to so bad. I’m sure that feeling will pass once I’m all healed up.

  15. I, too, am wicked jealous of those that have been bitten by the running bug. I am jealous of my friends and family who can just lace up their shoes and go. Someday, hmmm….why not today??? (I’m sure I can find a reason either way!)

  16. Oh la la.

    You blogged at Glamour? 😉

    I’m currently doing the C25K so I have no choice but run today, Miz.

  17. good for you miz (and mamavation)! i’m sure you ladies will rock it out 🙂

    maybe your next goal can be a tri 🙂 just a sprint, my bet is you’ll be surprised at how fun it can be! i know you have some friends who’ve done them… my bet is they’d love to help you train!

  18. Miz, I’m a fairly new reader, and I don’t believe I’ve ever left a comment…but just wanted to say I love it over here because this place combines two things I love: working out and gifted writing.

    I, too, was a total gym rat (still consider myself as such, actually), and I swore off outdoor running for a long time. I’ve recently given it another shot, though, and I have to say I rather enjoy it!

  19. Gal-ves-ton! Gal-ves-ton!!!

    So happy that you have a virtual running buddy, and congrats to bookieboo for the commitment to a half!

    I shall go for a short run today on National Running Day! And I really really hope to be running with you in November in Galveston! 🙂

  20. I’m sitting here with major shin splints from running up and down the hills at Annadel State Park on Monday. I had intended to take a short, 20 minute jaunt on one of the trails, but I sort of got lost and wound up wandering around the middle of nowhere for an hour and a half. I was so pi**ed off!

    So I don’t feel the least bit guilty about not running today. Instead, I’m trying out a couple of classes at the Y: Pilates and Yoga. (Yay for summer vacation and free time!)

  21. I just finished up my wokrout not too long ago & running (on the treadmill) was part of it., along with HIIT! I am not in love with it BUT I do get a sense of accomplishment from it & I like the results! I don’t get that runners high.. I get weight lifting highs! 🙂

  22. I TOLD YOU you’d sign up for another one! I just love it when I’m right! I want to do another half too. We have several up here in MN–can I lure you with the cooler weather?

  24. Oh, and I love that you recommend See Mom Run right along with Born to Run:-) I’d like to think it is just as good! And shorter! More pictures! Thanks for the link love!

  25. I am so happy about this blog post. I know you don’t like running much, but I am glad to see that you are open to its wonderful possibilities.

    I love to run, I just wish I hadn’t hurt my hip. Now that I am on the rebound, I am hoping that maybe, just maybe by the end of the summer, I will be able to do a 1/2 marathon. There is one here in NY called the Running Divas that I’d like to do in October. But I need to get through the triathlon first.

    I may sign up for a 5K in July. Let’s just see how my hip does.

  26. I think I’m more motivated because you love to hate the run ; )

    I might join you.

    Will you post about your training program?

  27. Can I just say I celebrated National Running Day Eve? After 16x400s in 80+degrees/88% humidity last night, I need a break today 🙂

    I LOVE half marathons, I hope I can fit whichever one you choose into my schedule! My next one is the VA Beach Rock and Roll Half on Labor Day weekend.

  28. Sorry, but running is not always free. Running shoes cost a bundle, and if you get hurt and you’re not already paying for good health insurance, you will be hurting financially too! I’m not running right now because I can’t afford to get injured. Be careful out there!

    GREAT POINT Ruth…

  29. Dear Miz,

    As you know I ADORE feet pounding the pavement. For all of the reaons you’ve listed and more! I cherish and look forward to it most days of the week. The fact that you do not and are still going to do another Half is making me think you are trying to shame me into finding a way, ANY WAY, to add some strength training to my repertoire. Once again, I must bow and say YOU ROCK MIZ!

  31. Running really increases my self-esteem and I also very much like the social aspect of it. But, like you said, the actual process of running is NOT easy. I think the hard part for me is that I have to keep going on my own… if I’m doing a boot camp or I’m on the treadmill, then I have an instructor or a machine that tells me I have to keep going. If it’s just me out there running, it’s twice as hard because I have to tell MYSELF to keep running. But that’s also one of the really rewarding parts about it: if I can get myself to run for 45 minutes straight, I’m super proud of myself.

    CONGRATULATIONS as well for signing up for another race. That’s really awesome!

  32. I am intrigued that you are running again. Perhaps this time will be different! 🙂

    I just “quit” my C25K running program. While it definitely helped me run, when I could finally run – I hated it.

    Sure, I’ll probably hit the pavement a few more times just to keep some trace of all that endurance but I will never call myself “a runner.”

    I can’t wait to see the recap on this! 🙂

  33. Are you going to post your training routine so we can all join in when you pick a race?

    I’m curious…..and I live near Las Vegas 😉

  34. gooood late morning. or it is here in the ATX anyway.
    Im having a happy one as I did, indeed, run today.
    it was short.
    it was pretty d*mn ugly
    but I did it.

    Here’s the plan:

    Leah and I will pick a race place/date and Ill share that ASAP.
    I also have a few other thoughts up my lack-of-sleeves for those of you who wanna play along at home and may not be able to join us OR who may have ZERO interest in running a half!

    so keep an eye out for all that.

    details soon…

  35. Hooray!! You are awesome!

    And slightly frightening. I will admit. Enthusiasm. Contagiousness. I’m peeking. My knees are getting stronger…run on babe and maybe next time. 🙂

  37. I ran a mile with my husband and daughter this morning. 😉 Other than that today was my day off. More running tomorrow.

  38. I’m glad you are giving running another shake- I really respect your opinion and shared your disappointment with the Disney 1/2 marathon you did.
    I thought maybe I wasn’t a runner either!
    I dusted off the running shoes last week and totally shocked and amazed myself. I LIKED IT!
    Glad you like it, too!
    Ali 🙂

  40. I love being seen as a runner too. As the fat girl for the first 24 years of my life I never thought I would be the girl I saw running out my window every day as I drove to work. But alas I am her. And I long to do it even though I am injured now and my PT says no running until I heal. I miss my running but I love the title and the exhilaration of finishing a run even if there is no finish line.

    BTW congrats on the new race whenever it is 🙂

  41. I must say that I’m baffled as to why you want to change your weight-hefting self into a cardio lover. I mean, I get the “practice what you preach” thing but maybe I’ve been reading too many Paleo sites but it seems like running for the sake of running isn’t all it’s fitness-cracked-up-to-be. Don’t get me wrong, I think if you love running and enjoy it then it’s a great activity. But if you don’t like it, there are so many other ways to get those fitness gains. Not trying to be critical AT ALL just trying to understand – you are my sounding board, you know that right??

  44. Just had to put in a plug for the 5K training program that Miz and Diet Girl promoted on their “Two Fit Chicks and a Microphone” podcast and site:

    http://www.twofitchicks.org/julia-joness-5k-training-program.html

    When I started running, this one wasn’t around and I wasn’t fit enough for C25K, so I eased into running a bit more gradually, but now I enjoy the feeling of a good run. Events can be so much fun, too.

    I’m looking forward to hearing about your next running goal, Miz!

  45. “Attachment to her self-definition.” Oooh…I like that…but I am still not running. I barely even like walking. I think that comes from my career as a server back in the day. Swimming, cycling (stationary please, scared of traffic), yoga, please…anything but running.

    Happy National Running Day!

    Enjoy your half…

  46. i’m actually commenting before going out on a run of my own (so tired but must go).

    i vote for vegas. brandon and i are doing it! you’d get to meet us! (and, more importantly, we’d get to meet you!) 🙂

  47. No running for me and Noah today, but we had a darn good fast walk up and down the hills.

    I like running more than I ever thought I would. If my body will cooperate, I will continue to do more. Looking forward to hearing more about your running miz-adventures!

  48. I ran today! First time in a week and a half and dang I need new shoes! I’m thinking of doing a late fall half as well…hmmm…

    I love running because no exercise makes me feel as great after. And it makes me feel so powerful and independent.

  49. I really am envious of people who run. My husband is a ultra-marathoner and I wish I could join him.

    However, I have diabetes neuropathy in my feet which has debilitated my bone structure and strength in my feet, so I’m terrified to try to run.

    I would love to be able to just put my shoes on and go outside and exercise. I’m so sick of the gym right now and my same routine.

    I’ve been cycling with my husband and I love it, but again I’m relying on a piece of equipment.

    Thanks for your words, your inspiring!

  50. I’ve been following your tweets about racing together as a virtual group and I am in!

    I don’t know if I am ready to really run in a race, but I liked your suggestion of running 13.1 in my neighborhood the same day you and others REALLY RUN 🙂

  51. I ran today! Of course I run every day 🙂

    I know this won’t really help, but I find running hard too!

  52. I recently decided to start looking for a half marathon to train for…I hope you guys pick one close to me..perhaps meet in the middle in CO? LOL, that works well for me..

  54. Hey there – I’ve just found your blog when I was looking around for some good healthy weight loss and fitness blogs to light a fire under my motivation to get back to healthy weight loss (which seems to have stalled over the past few months, although at least I haven’t gained!)

    I’m a distance walker, rather than a runner – I’ve been doing one 10k and one half-marathon a month since January, in a long lead-time training programme for a 100km walking event I’m committing myself to doing (and finishing this time, damnit!) in April 2011. I’ve tried teaching myself to run on several occasions in the past and have *always* ended up injuring something. I’m trying again at the moment though, with the Couch-2-5k programme – just started it from scratch after getting clearance from my physio from the last injury I managed to do myself. Who knows… maybe this time will be the one I manage to actually make it happen?

    Starfire

  55. When are you and Leah announcing your race??

    I want to start training 🙂 I will begin C25K next week in hopes of catching up with you two.

  56. As a new reader, I am loving the variety of topics you post about and this one is no exception. I have just recently started running regularly and I love it. It has most definitely helped me with my self-esteem but I never thought about that being related to constantly setting running goals… well put :O)

  59. I’ve been hitting up your blog like whoa lately, mostly because we’re kind of opposites in the way that I’m a cardio whore and you’re a strength mama. I view weight/strength training in the same light that you view cardio and my next venture is to kick the strength stuff into high gear. It’s motivating to see others creep out of their comfort zones.

    And um, I totally want to run in Vegas?

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