The Secret Benefit of Running

It was about two years ago now that I decided to become a Runner. It really was like what people describe- I woke up and just decided. It is not unlike me to come up with ‘grand schemes’ (the term of endearment I have given to describe the ridiculously high goals or crazy plans I come up with).  But at 37, having zero athletic history, 170 something pounds crammed onto 5’2”, and having invested most of my free time for the previous decade attempting to perfect the fine art of Couch Potato-dom; this was outrageous even for me. That first day I intended to run a mile. I was winded by the time I got to the end of my driveway. I walked for a bit and then saw a light post up ahead. Certainly I could run all the way there? I did, and then I about collapsed. I walked a few more feet, with the intention of alternating walking & jogging very slowly; didn’t happen. What did happen is that I walked very slowly around the block, and then retreated to the comfort of my couch & drowned my defeat in my favorite ego elixir Doritos. I would declare to people, “I am going to be a Runner,” and then tell the story of my very first run. People laughed, and I re-grouped.

Several times in the year long journey to my goal of running a Half Marathon, I thought to myself- I should document what is happening to me. Many people noticed changes in me. Physical changes, increased confidence, and such. Those things are great benefits. I enjoy them very much, truly I do, but it is not those changes that I wish I had captured. It is the spiritual transformation that has been the biggest gift Running has given me. I do not understand why people do not talk about that more. 

Running changes your Life. Forever.

So, when my dear friend asked me to help her become a Runner, I was thrilled. It is exciting to be asked to be a part of someone setting and reaching fitness goals. But I knew a secret about Running. I knew this process was going to change her Life in deep and profound ways. To be able to be a part of that, to be able to watch that unfold, is such an honor and a gift.

We want to share this amazing process with you.

We want to inspire you.

We want to remind you of your own Greatness.

So follow along. Read. Watch. Share in the joys and challenges of this amazing journey with us.