Periodically, I will feature a beginner runner I know. My hope is that each person’s story will inspire you. I’ll ask each runner the same questions. Their variety of answers will appeal to many. To begin with, though, I’ll share my own story.
More appropriate running picture to follow…
Q: What was your main motivation to begin running?
A: It was part of a larger weight-loss/fitness goal. I felt I needed to be more active.
Q: What are your personal bests for distance and time?
A: My longest distance was 5.08 miles in 54:01 minutes on variably hilly terrain.
Q: What are some of your personal running/fitness goals?
A: I want to continue to lose weight, perhaps another 20 or so pounds. I am also working on increasing my running speed.
Q: Describe your most satisfying run thus far.
A: It was definitely the one when I broke 5 miles for the first time. It was hilly and awesome. I felt unstoppable. Incredible feeling when I finished – jelly-legged and jubilant!
Q: What motivates you when you want to stop?
A: Lots of time music pushes me through, but I also tell myself to hit a time or physical milestone before stopping. Then, usually when I hit that milestone, I go for another one.
Q: What is the most important piece of advice you can give to someone new to running?
A: Add minutes to your run every time you go out. Believe in yourself and prepare to amaze yourself.
