I would drag myself out of bed to go on these ridiculously long walk/jogs, bored out of my mind with my feet in pain and hating me. Yet I continued on, mumbling and trying to hide my hatred of this fitness activity that so many others loved. I wanted to feel the runners high, or to feel at peace with the road and nature. Instead, I felt the strong desire to head back to my car a mile in the training run and hightail it to the closest Starbucks.
In hindsight, I realize that I was doing it because it was what "people" did and enjoyed. "People" celebrate those who do distance races, and as someone who had lost weight, I felt I needed to join these "people" and check the task off the fitness list.
Why do I share this? There are hundreds of fitness activities we can experience, yet so many of us chase activities that don't make us happy. I could do an hour long dance class and be as happy as a clam, wishing that the class would run over or that we could learn just one more step. I can lose track of time when swimming laps in the pool, only to realize I've exceeded a mile distance. But strap on some running shoes and push me to walk or jog? Cue uncharacteristic whining.
This weekend, I got excited for a 5K. EXCITED with capital letters! The difference? This 5K threw colored corn starch all over you during the race. I realized while walking with my friends that I still didn't really enjoy the actual walking, but I LOVED when I got to be rewarded with a color bomb every so often.
Fitness isn't one-size-fits-all, and we shouldn't feel ashamed for liking or not liking certain fitness activities. Taking time out of your schedule to take care of yourself doesn't have to be hard or boring or painful. Experiment with different activities, both alone and with friends. Change up the scenery, and mix things up when needed. Fitness and fun can and should be talked about in the same breath!
Ever since I heard of the Color Run I've wanted to do it. Maybe that should be one of my goals! Congrats to you for doing something that you're EXCITED over!!
ReplyDeleteI missed Denver's color run due to other booked activities but for sure next year! Congratulations
ReplyDeleteI LOVED the Color Run and I have signed up for the Color Me Rad race in September (same concept as the Color Run). I've also signed up for the Dirty Girl Mud Run. It's non-competitive, non-timed and girls only! I'm UBER excited about that one! I love zumba and dance fitness classes. I agree, you MUST find the fitness activity that makes you the happiest!
ReplyDeleteI agree that we should find something we love for our fitness routine. I have a coworker who has lost over 100 pounds and during the process became a runner. He keeps sending me little notes about progressing from a walker to a runner. I DON'T WANT TO BE A RUNNER! Never have wanted to. Those people look to be in pain every minute. I guess that is why they are celebrated - not only for the distance they covered, but that they made through their misery!
ReplyDeleteFind your fun and stick with it!
Excellent post, Emily! I am so happy to have found something that I love to do in running. But I know it is not for everyone. And I have to admit that typically at about mile 10 into most of my half marathons I tend to ask myself, "Why am I doing this again?". The thought of an hour long Zumba class gives me hives...it's just not my thing. As long as you are active and have found something that you enjoy doing, that is all that matters. By the way your progress shot from July 20 is amazing!
ReplyDeleteI love to run. It relieves my stress and it keeps the weight off! I am up to 6 miles and I'm hoping to get up to a least 8 miles. Exercise is so important because it keeps your energy up and boosts your mood!
ReplyDeleteAlong with doing cardio workouts I am really trying to incorporate muscle building workouts to tone my body.