5 Things I Learned From Running

Running is a very important aspect in my life. This pastime has become more than just a form of exercise. I run for empowerment. I run to lessen stress. I run to feel good. I run because I get bored. Even when I should be resting and letting my body recuperate, I'd rather be running. Running is a beautiful outlet for me and through embracing this sport, I have learned so much about myself. 

Here are five important lessons I've learned on my running journey.

1. Your body is stronger than you know. Until I took that first step and truly pushed myself, I had no idea what I was capable of. It has taken me a very long time to truly understand and respect my body and my abilities. I fill myself up with healthy fuel and positive mantras. Every step I take is an accomplishment. I see my strength every day; I know I can do anything. 
2. Scary goals are the best kind. Saying that you’re going to set out to run a half marathon is much different than saying you have a half marathon coming up in six weeks. When I first started my weight-loss journey, I had announced I was going to start running but I never marked a race on my calendar. It wasn’t until I finally signed up and paid the race fees that I realized, “Shit. I’m actually doing this.” With a race looming, I had to put myself in gear and push. Six half marathons later, I still see these dates as scary, but I’m looking forward to every race.
3. It’s OK to go slow. No matter the pace, running is still an accomplishment. Early in my career, I yearned to run fast and have jaw-dropping times, but through trial, error and self-reflection, I learned that fast times mean nothing. No matter if you jog or sprint, you’re still a runner.
4. Food is fuel. As delicious as some dishes may be, they may not be the fuel your body needs before a race or long run. Once again, my stubbornness prevailed and it took me some time to perfect how to nourish my body properly. Take my word for it: it is no fun to make frequent bathroom stops after a long run. Although I’m still mastering the art of carbo-loading and finding the balance between under eating and over fueling, my gut issues during and after races and runs have improved. The desire to keel over after a long run has subsided. And the thought of eating whatever I want because "I worked out" no longer lingers.
5. Built-in underpants are a God send.  It wasn’t until recently that I discovered what the built-in underpants inside my running shorts were actually for. I didn’t fully grasp the advantages to ditching my duds and wearing only running shorts. Holy cow, I should have tried this sooner. I no longer suffer from wedgies and I don’t feel “weighted” down. This has made all of my runs so much more enjoyable…and comfortable.