Since moving to our new town, I've been surrounded by runners. It's a whole new experience for me because I've always been one of the only people I know who runs. I've never had friends nearby to talk to about running--the pros and cons, the strategies, the recovery, the competition. So I'm loving this. Poor Kevin is probably feeling like the odd guy out, but at least I'm not pestering him to run with me now that I have a running buddy. (disclaimer--I definitely wouldn't turn you down, Kevin, if you decided to run with me. :D)
After coming back from another 8 mile run today, I thought I'd share some of the things I love about running.
{Top Ten Things I Love About Running}
1) Running burns lots of calories (this article says it burns more calories than walking, mile-for-mile.)
2) Though running seems to be becoming more and more vogue in recent years, it's still an activity that only a small percentage of the population ever participates in. For some reason, knowing I'm part of a small group of athletes, makes me feel awesome.
3) Did I just say "athlete"? Yeah. I guess running makes me an athlete. Something I never thought I would be. I was always the chubby, uncoordinated, last-to-picked kid. Now I'm an athlete.
4) Running is competitive. Even if it's just competing with myself, I'm all about the competition. (Maybe that's why Kevin doesn't want to run with me? Hmm. Because we're super competitive about everything already.)
5) There are some really awesome running clothes out there. I only have 2 or 3 different outfits, but ever since I bought actual workout gear, I've felt pretty great about my runs.
6) Running is a total body workout. It's amazing to me that my abs and arms end up sore after some runs and are getting toned in addition to those leg and butt muscles that I knew were getting worked.
7) I always feel great after a run. The sweating, the heart rate, the cool down, the fresh shower, the feel wide awake. It's all awesome.
8) Running is one workout that can be done anywhere. The first thing I do when we're looking for a hotel or visiting family or friends is map out the best running route. I don't mind running in the cold, I can put up with a light rain, and the only equipment needed is my running shoes. Done!
9) I am an early morning runner. I love being up before many are awake--watching the sunrise, enjoying the stillness of the day.
10) Can I just be really honest with you? I totally love my toned calves & quads & hamstrings. I used to be totally embarrassed by my legs, but now they're my favorite part of myself. I love having visual evidence of the work I've done.
Running rocks.
You may not be a runner (and that's totally ok) but how do you like to feel the burn?
This post is linked up with Oh!Amanda's Top Ten Tuesday.
---
oh man... how i look up to you runners. especially you early morning runners. i love a good long walk, and the occassional run... but an 8 mile run? probably not. i even played college volleyball... maybe that's it... too many years of being forced to work out makes it really hard to want to do it on your own. anyhow... thanks for visiting my blog... my husband is actually in seminary at southern in louisville. we love it so far. love your blog too... new follower!
ReplyDeleteGood for you for running! I *hate* running. I did the Couch to 5K program and everything and just decided it wasn't for me as much as I wanted it to be.
ReplyDeleteGreat list - I am an outside runner too - and one of the things i love (i live way out in the country) is the time it gives me to observe nature SLOWLY. I'm am a 9- 10-minute miler - so it's a wonderful time to see God's creation... while toning and getting awesome cardio and taming the impatient monster within...
ReplyDeleteBlessings
lib
http://bit.ly/peskwJ
I wish I could run. I was doing really well before I got sick but it is too hard on my body now. But I do love biking for many similar reasons!
ReplyDeleteThank you for visiting my blog today for Top 10 Tuesday. I wish I was a runner...or even a consistent walker. I used to be so good at making time to walk each day.
ReplyDeleteI wanted to tell you that you are making a HUGE impact in your youth group's kids' lives when you take the time to go see them do something they are passionate about. Our youth group teen leader came to see my two oldest kids last year one evening at finals for champs. It meant so, so, so much to them! I can't describe how deeply touched they were to have our teen leader come see them swim. I know it takes a ton of time to visit sporting events, plays, etc. but it truly makes a huge impression on the kids to which you are ministering.
Samantha
Great list! You must be very disciplined to be able to get up in the early morning to run!
ReplyDeleteI can't run due to physical limitations, so I have to stick with the stationary bicycle; but, at least I'm getting some exercise. :)
Hate running- love kick boxing! :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for your concurrence (is that a word?!) with my post today! You used my life verse in your comment- 1 Cor. 15:58. You are absolutely right- ministry is not in vain when we remain faithful in serving the Lord! All the best!!!
LOL "i love my toned calves, quads... "
ReplyDeletei love my hardcore zumbaaaa! and our bff jillian michaels ha