Please indulge me by reading this one... The time has come to share something with the world.
Last July, almost for no apparent reason, I decided to start running. I wanted to be healthy, I wanted to start a new habit, I wanted to exercise, and I wanted to do something that I had always hated. I was never good at running, I couldn't do it, and I thought it wasn't for me. Well, I think for those reasons I simply got off the couch and started to run. That was in July, 2009.
I started out knowing absolutely nothing about running. I had the wrong shoes, didn't know how to pace myself, and typically wanted to do too much too soon. I could barely go a tenth of a mile without having to stop. I was not in running shape... With some research, some great new shoes, a lot of support from my amazing wife and children, and with a TON of determination I have now become a full-blooded, totally addicted, and much more savvy runner!
Slowly over the months, my endurance improved. I remember when I finally was able to run a mile without stopping. Quickly that turned into 2, 3, 4, 5, and even 6 miles. I regularly run at least 6 miles every other day - in the rain, in the snow, in the ice, and yes, all through the Michigan winter - outside! I haven't missed a single run in 9 months - if I had to miss for some reason, I made it up - every run.
For my recent birthday, my Mom sent me a check. I decided that I wanted to cap my 9 months of running by completing my first Half Marathon - yup, that's 13.1 miles. So, I registered for the Martian Marathon in Dearborn, MI (mostly because it was the only close and on a Saturday - not because I am interested in Martians...). Well... I did it today! Yes, I worked hard, but over these last 9 months, I have been blessed by God. I was thankfully able to "run and not be weary, walk and not faint."
I had three goals: simply to finish, to run the entire time, and to do it under 2 hours. Fortunately, I was able to accomplish that (yes, I just squeaked in under my 2 hour time limit):
1:58:14
Running is amazing and I am hooked. I was unhealthy, really big, not a runner, and probably rightfully scared of starting. But I did it - you can do it. If you want to, get off the couch, put on your shoes, and go for a walk. After a few walks, start to run a little - pace yourself, but run. Sooner than later the miles will pile on and you can feel great. Not only did I finish the run today, but I feel GREAT!
So, here's my own Discover card commerical:
In 9 Months
3 pairs of running shoes (about to start my 4th)
Now proudly wearing runner tights
574 total miles run
103,777 calories burned
a Half Marathon completed
Oh, and did I mention I have lost 90 lbs in the process!!!
A new Jason - Priceless!
Now, go run! Call me, and I'll come with you...
