Yes, You Can!

This past weekend, I enjoyed running my sixth half marathon in Indianapolis. Fall races are my favorite! The weather is always perfect and the scenery is beautiful. This particular race was at a park that took us up and down plenty of hills, on a of couple trails, and around a few small lakes. It was a perfect 55 degrees and overcast. The trees were all beautiful fall shades of red and orange. When running races, I try to live in the moment, enjoy what is going on, and be mindful of what is happening around me. I try to never wish away my time running or think about finishing. It’s hard, and there were several times I had to stop myself from thinking how much longer until I’m done. But when the scenery is as beautiful as it was last weekend, it’s easy to soak up the present.

I was able to convince a friend of mine to sign up for the Indianapolis Half Marathon as her first. She did a great job training despite a hectic work schedule and finished her first half marathon in 2 hours and 4 minutes. She proves the point that as long as you put your mind to something, set a goal, and find people to share it with, you can accomplish what you want. Nicole is now hooked on half marathons, and we are already talking about what full marathon to run next year! Sharing my love of running with others gives me so much joy. The endorphin rush and sense of accomplishment is unbelievable; I can’t compare it to anything else. I’d be lying a little if I said that I don’t also use it as a talking point. People are generally very impressed when I say that I regularly run half marathons and it leads into interesting conversations every time.

But every so often, non-runners say they could never do that, or they could never run one mile, let alone 13. Well my friend, you CAN! I was never a runner and didn’t consider myself a runner for a long time. I didn’t start running until three short years ago. But it’s something I stuck with despite the challenge. I encourage everyone to find something that challenges them physically but they also find enjoyment in. Take a new class at your gym, try the free pass at the Cross Fit gym, or hit up the local yoga studio.

Now is the time to make new and healthy habits. You don’t need Jan. 1 to make a resolution; you just need a new day!