Running is my BFF
One of the greatest joys of my life is running. I’ve been running for about five years now, and I try to run in each and every city I visit! Check the hashtag #montreceruns on Instagram to see some of my favorite self-made running tours! And, make sure you subscribe to get updates on my running adventures.
#I’m still not sure how I’ve turned into one of those crazy running people! But, I’m so happy I have. In addition to helping me avoid gaining weight, running has provided so many unexpected benefits.
I started running in 2013. And, it was a slow and ugly start. When I first started, I could barely complete a mile, and when I did it took me a solid 15 minutes. But I was committed to figuring out this running thing. I knew needed some sort of fitness activity that I could do consistently, that did not require equipment or a gym membership. I found an app to help me along the way—with coaches offering inspiration and tips on form and increasing time, and upbeat, fun music. I was also lucky enough to find a friend who was a runner who was willing to “coach” me. Coach Lulu (no, she’s not a real coach!) kept me accountable, and signed me up for my first 5k. At some point, the fever hit me. I began to feel the runner’s high, and I noticed positive changes in my body. I became a runner.
And, the lesson learned for me was that we can’t fear start lines, in a race or in life. Starting anything new can be scary. But, we can’t let that fear paralyze us. When we do, we often miss our potential to fully experience all that life has to offer. Had I done that with running, I would have missed out on the opportunity to get myself in the best physical shape of my life, and change me and grow me in ways that nothing else could.
I’ve never really considered myself an athlete. I ran track for one semester in high school, and I was a cheerleader in college. But, I’ve never really been an ATHLETE. Running has changed that. Running 2-3 miles, a few times a week makes me feel stronger, both mentally and physically.
When I first started running, I’d look around at people on the trails or at races who had the right gear or who were faster than me. And, I’d say to myself, “Now, that’s an athlete.” But, I realized that I’m out there, too, and I’m lapping everybody who is still out the couch.
I had to acknowledge that I am definitely living an “athletic lifestyle.” I run 2-3 miles, most days of the week. In 2016, I ran along the Pacific Ocean in Honolulu, HI, and along the Arctic Ocean in Barrow Alaska. In the past 5 years, I have run in 21 out of the 50 states. Last year, I ran one charity 5K per month, and this year, I’ll do the same. I don’t often rank in my age group, but I stay the course—my course. For each run and each race, I have had the guts to show up, start, and finish. By any definition, I’m an athlete.
Saying that I’m an athlete acknowledges my commitment to running and to my fitness. And, owning that version of myself adds value to each step I take—on the pavement, and in life.
Yes.
Cute workout clothes matter.
The concept of “dress for success” applies to the world of fitness, just as it does to the professional world! There is a scientific term for this: “enclothed cognition.” According to the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, this is mental shift we all experience when we wear certain items of clothing, and this shift subconsciously changes how we act.
Of course, it takes discipline to get out there and run regularly, but I have learned that my workout wardrobe can make or break my run. When I’m in a colorful sports bra and matching leggings, I feel fun and happy and ready to “run” the world! And, in my humble opinion, if you are going to be out there sweating your tushy off, you might as well be fashionable AF.
If you like cute workout gear as much as I do, hop on over to Pineapple Clothing, and use my code (MONRAN) for 20% off!
