This post is solely dedicated to those who think they could never run a half marathon. You know who you are 🙂 Now some of you don’t want to and for those of you who don’t you may just want to skip on over this post, BUT for those of you who are up for the challenge and have a tiny bit inside you that wants to do this, but aren’t sure you can-YOU CAN!!!
I am living proof.
First of all, let me tell you that I am not the most slender, athletic person in the world. I didn’t run track in high school (I might have for one week :), I don’t have the cutest workout clothes in the world and I don’t usually wear makeup to the gym. For these purposes; I feel qualified to give you this pep talk that anyone can do this. ANYONE.
I DO like to exercise, but I do not LOVE to run, but what I really like is a good challenge and a good workout. I like to push myself and know now that one of the best feelings in this world is crossing a finish line to a difficult race. I know you’ve thought about embarking on one of these races. If you’ve never ran a race, start with a 5k. Then see how you feel. Then move on to a 10k. If you’re still having fun, I really think you should try a half marathon. You won’t regret that finish line feeling. Plus, if you sign yourself up for something it forces you to exercise and get into great shape!
Saturday, I completed my third half marathon and it was by far one of more enjoyable races I’ve ran. I trained fairly well using this website I used the regular runner guide, but you can pick one that starts from scratch. I replaced Tuesday and Friday’s workouts and rest day and loved that the long runs were on Sat. I think training in crucial. Cali and her husband Bryan worked their bums off training for this same race! They ran every.single.day! Her and Bryan killed this race.
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| Bryan, Cali and I right before the race began! |
My last suggestion is to find a running companion or buddy that wants to run with you. It is difficult to find someone with your same pace, but when you find that special someone–the training is much easier! Then II suggest making small goals for yourself when you run. For me, I gave myself one rule during this race and it was that I didn’t want to walk. I am happy to report that I didn’t walk!
I hope this inspired one person to run. You have all kinds of abilities inside of you that you don’t know you are capable of. I watched a girl run across the finish line and she just started crying. I thought it was so tender and sweet. I’m sure she worked really hard training and getting through that race. So Awesome.
Thanks for letting me share my love of running with all of you-now go run! 🙂
So, you don’t know me but I have to say “Thanks” for this post. I am 2 weeks away from my first 10K and I am nervous as heck!I have been following my training schedule but still worry that I won’t make it without walking. Thanks for the inspiration!
You were talking to me Nat. I’ve been thinking about it, I’m just scared to commit. Thanks for the pep talk!
Wow…. you are amazing. Seriously. Someday I will be like you. 🙂 10k is next on the list!
Thank you so much for stopping over at my blog! I’m a new follower! :o)
-Jamie
Way to go Nat!!! (and Cali and Bryan) Love you all!
Natalie, You are such an inspiration! Thank you for sharing your tips and you story. It reminds me so much of how I feel and felt running my second half this year. I love to push myself as well and love the feeling I get when I finish something that I’ve spent a lot of time and effort preparing for. Thanks again for sharing!