Inspired by Gingerbread Running post on reasons why he run, I thought of making my own. I just finished my very first 21km race last Sunday and so I thought of posting 21 reasons why I run.
1. To lose weight – My most commented post “How I Lost 28lbs in 2 months running” gathered a lot of comments and buzz. Probably the first reason why I started to run in the first place.
2. To eat foods I love after the race knowing that I won’t gain weight. You can eat foods right after a race without having to worry about gaining weight. Your muscles will absorb them really fast.
3. To be with people with similar passion, for camaderie and friendship
4. To test my limits - It’s a personal challenge I always want to do everytime I run. Can I run for another kilometer? Can I overrun that cute girl? etc..
5. To help charities - Joining races for benefits give me a very satisfying and purposeful life.
6. I have full of energy. - This is such a great benefit if you are working in an environment where the stress level is high. This includes managing your family at home or at work. Since I started running, I get more done in less time with complete focus on the task at hand. With every week of running I found myself getting physically stronger.
7. To get race certificates which I’m fond of collecting.
8. Time for myself.
9. To help me focus and strategize for my next move.
10. To meditate – the silence of running alone is a joy.
11. I feel at peace with myself after a run
12. To try new routes
13. To escape from daily routine
14. To discipline myself in terms of training and set an example to my kid
15. My metabolism increased! – I believe this is the obvious with any exercise routine, but I can really tell a difference. Even over the holidays when I indulged in a few extra sweets, my waistline remain the same.
16. The silence, the wind brushing your hair, blowing againts your face while running is satisfying
17. To be an inspiration to others - Running enables people around me to shape up when they see me how much fat I lose by running. Please refer to my previous post about losing 28lbs in 2 months running.
18. My self-esteem and confidence levels have soared way up. – Running increases my sense of accomplishment everytime I finish my goal. When I overcome fear and pain of running by crossing that finish line, it made me feel I can accomplish even the most difficult task ahead.
19. Running is a great stress reliever. The release of endorphins in your brain does wonder to your body by giving you that “good mood” feeling. If you’re running alone and running in comfortable pace, you can even meditate, pray and worship the Lord.
20. I am now a part of a great running community.
Entering many races has allowed me to meet interesting people. If you can find a running group, join them. Although not necessary, it helps me to continue on my passion and be able to get up, get out and run.
21. I have total control - Running is not a team sport hence the outcome is totally yours. If you’re like me and you’ve run a race before, you know the pressure that comes when dealing with your running team mates, demanding practices and trying to get your best PR. These aspects of running are common but running for myself has been much more satisfying. You set your schedule, pace and speed. Your goals are all yours and if you reach those goals you have a satisfaction of realizing your potential. On days I don’t meet my goals, I don’t have to worry much and beat myself about it. I still give myself a pat on the back and feel good about the effort while receiving the benefits of health and wellness.
Now what about you? Why do you run? What motivates you to run?
