I am a runner. I love to run (see a look into my miles). Sometimes I hate it. The majority of the time I embrace running despite the love/hate relationship I have with it. Here are 10 reasons why I run – that don’t have to do with weight loss:
- First and foremost, I run to clear my mind. When I am having a bad day/week I need to get out of my usual space with the usual people to get a new perspective on things. I turn off my thinking and just go. I don’t have to think about how messy the house is, how many things are still on my to-do list or if any will like my latest recipe or not (the fear is real, people!). Running clears my mind and helps me refocus.
- I run because it makes me feel good. Maybe not always right in the moment (hence the hate part of the relationship), but afterwards I always feel SO good! I feel accomplished. I feel on top of the world, ready for the day and can now tackle that never ending to-do list with renewed energy and zeal.
- I run to be an example to my kids. I want to show my kids that being healthy is important to me. I don’t want to be someone who walks (or runs) the talk – not just talks the talk. I want my children to see that physical activity can be enjoyable and fun – so hopefully they will be physically active themselves as they get older.
- I run to get new ideas. When clearing my mind (see #1) of the day-to-day routines, it opens up space for me to think of new ideas. New recipes or blog posts, activities to do with the kids, projects for the house (maybe this isn’t such a good thing!) or other ways to improve and become better. That time alone to just think about all the possibilities of life – I cherish it.
- I run to explore. Whether I am in a new place or even around my home town, I love running new routes. Finding new places I haven’t seen before and enjoying the beautiful views of God’s creations on Earth.
Beautiful run along the shore of Lake Champlain
- I run as a stress reliever. Running keeps me sane. Ask my husband – he can definitely tell if it’s been a while since I have been running. I’m easily irritated, on edge and just not myself. I can come back after a run and be less stressed than I was pre-run. I don’t know exactly why, but it works. Releasing bottled up energy through physical activity is a great outlet for stress.
My first marathon!
- I run for a sense of community. Running has a great sense of community about it. You can be young or old, a newbie or veteran runner, slow or fast – it doesn’t matter. If you’re a runner, you’re a runner and you belong. I often train by myself, but when I am running a race with hundreds of other runners – that’s my favorite part of running. All of us together with one goal – to finish the race! The camaraderie that happens when running with other people – even strangers – is amazing. And, we can all relate with each other about the struggles and joys of running.
Our team after running the Wasatch Back Ragnar Relay
- I run to stay physically fit. Running is my sport of choice to stay fit. And when I say fit, I don’t mean lose weight. My body feels stronger and healthier when I run – even if the number on the scale stays the same. I don’t have a perfect body and probably never will – but I will stay active to keep me healthy. I also enjoy doing a variety of other activities to get me in shape, but running is my go-to. It’s cheap, requires no special equipment, and can be done anywhere.
My husbands first half marathon!
- I run to spend time with friends and family. Some of my fondest memories with family and friends involve running – or some other type of physical activity. I love being active with my family. We can enjoy each other’s company and release some energy in a positive way at the same time. Even if it’s just my husband and I running alongside each other and not talking at all – I love it. There is some sort of special bonding that happens when you sweat it out together on a nice run.
- I run to achieve my goals. I am a little bit (maybe a lot a bit) competitive in nature. If you are running on a treadmill next to me the answer is yes, we are racing. 😉 But in all reality – I love achieving a goal such as running a new distance, setting a new personal best, or checking a race off my bucket list. In running I have become less competitive with other runners and more competitive with myself It’s about how I can be a better runner, because everyone is at different points in their running journey – so I try not to compare my running with that of someone else’s. Trying to do better than the week or month before keeps me going and motivated. There is always ups and downs and always room for personal improvement.
My first race post baby #2!
This list is specific to running, but I could say the same thing for most physical activities I enjoy. Pick something you like doing and do it. If you loathe running, pick something else! Running isn’t for everyone. Enjoy playing volleyball? Join a local volleyball league. Like swimming? Go to the community rec center pool and take a few laps. Want to stay at home and sweat it out? Do a workout video in your living room. If you have lost the joy in physical activity and don’t know why you are doing it anymore, stop doing it and find something you do enjoy. Find what moves you!
Why do YOU run? Or if you don’t run, what type of physical activity do you enjoy? Let me know in the comments!
I'm a registered dietitian nutritionist and mom of four with a passion of helping families build confidence in the kitchen. I share family friendly recipes and helpful tips to help you navigate mealtime one bite at a time.
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