I started running in two years ago in June, and on July 1st, 2013 I ran 5K without walking or stopping. It's fun to have a specific day to mark as my runniversary each year. And what a an incredible two years it's been!
To celebrate, here are some of the things I have learned over the past two years as a runner...
- You will never stop learning.
- The running community is incredible.
- You will be hungry.
- Not being able to run hurts as much as than the pain of an injury.
- Speed is not the only gauge of success.
- Have a goal for every race, and every season.
- It's okay to walk. (Just don't let anyone see you.)
- You will always remember your first race.
- It's impossible to say no to a race if at least one running friend is running it.
- Just when you get the hang of road running, there is someone talking about triathlons, ultras, trail running, etc.
- In order to improve you will have to get used to being uncomfortable.
- Long runs take a very long time.
- You can never have enough running gear.
- The forecast will change at least three times in the 24 hours prior to a race.
- When not actually running and you see a runner, you will be tempted to tell them you are a runner too.
- Even if you're shy there is always something to talk about to a fellow runner.
- All other life events must be planned around races.
- All weekend plans must be made around your long run.
- You track your training runs better than your hours at work.
- You don't know how you to run without some sort of tech.
- You feel like you just bought your runners yet your mileage says you need new ones.
- You still get just a little bit nervous before every race.
- The hardest part about race morning is getting your bib pinned on straight.
- Runfies.
- You love your running friends like family.
- With each longer distance race there will come a time you feel you've made a mistake in signing up.
- There will be a lot of sweat.
- There will be a lot of showers.
- Nothing tastes as good as the food consumed after a race.
- The words, "You're crazy!" make you smile smugly and feel proud.
- Runs are planned around the hourly forecast.
- You get to try different foods and call it fuel training.
- Snacks.
- You will run in wind, rain, snow and ice because missing a run would be worse.
- You will feel like a rebel when friends and family ask, "You are going to run in this?"
- Laundry.
- Run clothes are the dirtiest, yet laundered with the most care.
- You will recognize and know the benefits of every pair of shorts, capris and leggings in your closet.
- White feet in the summer.
- No longer caring about wearing make up.
- Not getting a pedicure for fear of what they will think of your feet.
- Chafing.
- Never judge a run by the first or last kilometer.
- Downhill races are fun..
- Hills.
- How to use the markings are on a track.
- You will not be the only one who says they are the slowest runner out there.
- You can actually run faster than you think.
- You know the city based on training runs and race routes.
- Running is about way more than just running.
