Being Redman

Ever think about getting into running? Trying to find ways to meet new people? Want to be a better person? Why not give running a shot!

"You should start running with us! You can sign up for a Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon and do the half with us" my friends said last year. What? Why? That's crazy! Why would I want to do that?

These are all the thoughts that I had after they suggested it. Why would someone put themselves through something like that? Only crazy healthy young people run half marathons. That's not me! I enjoy pizza and beer too much.

But, I DID enjoy running those 5k races! And, those medals and t-shirts were pretty cool. And I am getting to meet new people and they all seem nice.

What the hell! I'll sign up for a training program and give it a shot. What's the worse that could happen? I get a little healthier, maybe loose a bit of weight.

So, I began a 16 week training program running every Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday and Sunday gradually increasing mileage until I was able to run 10 miles without walking.

Let me tell you some of the things I discovered on this journey.

1. There comes a point during the process of training that "something" clicks and you really start to enjoy running. Like, REALLY enjoy running. It's hard to describe to people who are not runners. All I can say is that once you get the bug you want to do it all the time.

2. Running in a training program with other people is a wonderful way to make a ton of new friends. Everyone was very welcoming, kind, encouraging, and helpful. These people have become almost like a second family too me.

3. Running has helped me to feel more accomplished in other areas of my life. If I'm having a rough day at work, I can go for a run at lunch or after work and feel the stress melt away. When possible, starting my day off with a run completely changes the tone of my day for the better. Just think about all the people still in bed sleeping while I'm out getting in some miles. It's an amazing feeling!

4. Running has helped me to eat healthier (most of the time). After a long run, occasionally I'll eat not the best food; but, I have found that I am more aware of what I'm eating and that I still continue to lose weight - just don't eat the whole pizza! I have to remember all those calories I just burned off will be for naught if I eat a crap meal. I want to eat healthy now so that I can continue feeling better about myself.

5. You do not have to be fast to enjoy running. The vast majority of my running friends are not "fast". You can build up speed over time. Challenge yourself over time. It's not about the race, but about the journey.

6. You do not have to be thin to enjoy running. Runners come in all shapes and sizes. Running is about doing something for yourself and making new friends who don't judge you. You all are on the same path and are going to go through similar things.

7. You do not have to be young to enjoy running. I run with people who are in high school all the way to people in their 70's. We all are having fun. Age is not a deterrent to running. Don't let yourself get in your own way.