Finally!

I started working out when I was in my very early twenties. I lifted weights and did aerobics classes in the beginning.  Eventually, I started substituting cardio equipment for the aerobics classes, which gave me variety for my cardio workout .  One thing I never did, though, was run on the treadmill (outdoors either), and that’s because it was simply too hard.  I could run for maybe 2 or 3 minutes, tops, and then I’d have to stop because I’d lose my breath.  I avoided running for years.

Skip way ahead to 2011.  My husband talked me into signing up for a crazy 5K obstacle course race.  We had to pay to participate, so I figured I’d better do my best to get in shape for the race, which meant I needed to work on running.  I started out with a jogging pace that matched my husband’s fast walk.  Thankfully, he was very patient, and offered encouragement despite all of my grumbling and groaning.  Within two months I was able to run 2 miles without stopping, and by the time the race came around, I was up to 4 miles.  Because of all of my preparation, the race was easy, but more importantly, it was amazingly fun!  Today (July 2012), I am still running, both outdoors and on the treadmill.  In fact, when I go to the gym I sometimes have to force myself to stay away from the treadmill just so I can work on other stuff.