This edition, I'm here to talk to you about one of my favorite things: you guessed it - running!
I started getting into running back in 2016 when I was still swimming at a high level. But, I had to eventually stop swimming because of a serious shoulder injury. That’s when I started running on-and-off for a few years. During that time, I started running in some organized races and did well.
That brought me up to December 11th, 2020 when I started a run streak. It has become a routine for me to go on a run every single day. And I love it! It is something that I’m planning to do for as long as I can. Each week, when I'm not sick or injured, I run about 40 miles total.
There are many benefits to running as a key form of exercise. One benefit is that it can make your heart healthier and stronger. Plus, it can also make your lungs stronger. It can help make your joints/bones stronger, too. I find that running helps bring me into a good mood, being a tremendous boost to my overall mental health and self-esteem. Not only that, it can help with your brain health. Did you know that your memory can improve when you run more consistently? And if you run outside, it can be a great source of Vitamin D.
Some people enjoy listening to music or podcasts while they are running. Personally, I don’t really listen to anything, other than listening for cars when I cross roads. I also like to unwind and be away from my phone when I’m running, which helps me get the "runner's high" I feel get afterwards. The runner's high can is that positive feeling and energy you have after you run. This comes from endorphins, which are hormones that can make you feel good about yourself after you do something that you enjoy. Endorphins can come from all different forms of exercise- or even being around people you love and eating good food together.
You don’t really need any equipment for running other than a good pair of running shoes and workout clothes. My advice for someone who decides to start running is to start at a low mileage. You don't have to run long or far when you first start! The important thing is to just start. And don’t worry about your pace! After you are more comfortable with the routine of running, you can slowly build yourself up to run longer. You can even start by walking and then slowly building yourself up to be able to run. Over time, you will get better if you just stay consistent.
You're more likely to get injured if you run hard all the time. If you run at a comfortable pace or speed most of the time, you can keep your body healthy. This is very good when it comes to the long term and keeping your body healthy for many years.
Even though I love running, it hasn’t always been easy. For example, I have been injured during runs with blisters. I have also been sick a few times during my run streak. The toughest runs that I’ve ever done was when I had COVID twice!
But I hope you follow my lead with running and just begin!
