Running is a journey. Every day it feels like I learn something new. At times, it’s also an emotional rollercoaster.  Some days I feel fantastic and run 4.5 miles with ease and other days I struggle through the first mile. I notice that the healthier I live my life, the easier it is to run. My body feels less heavy and filled with more endurance.

I am training for my first 8k in a few weeks and am excited about it! Having a race on the horizon keeps my training on point. After that, at the end of March, I am doing my first 10k. I want to keep going and going. September I have a Ragnar planned and I want to within the next few months do my first half-marathon. However, I have to keep telling myself, one day at a time. I have an obsessive, OCD planning side to my personality. My brain never stops.

When is the best time to run? Morning, afternoon, or evenings? I go back and forth. I enjoy a good morning run because the weather is cooler and it gives me energy throughout the day. It’s hard to find the motivation though. Sleep for another hour or get up and go run? Quite often, sleep wins. Today I went for a morning run since I had to work late last night. It was serene and peaceful. I feel fantastic right now. I also love evening runs. After a day of being stressed out from work, I crave that running release. Although it can be hard to find the time after a busy day. Afternoon runs are great but the weather can be hotter and since I work, it only works for me on the weekends.

Where is the best place to run? The gym or outdoors? I like running at the gym because I have strength training and stretching options available. I like running outdoors because it’s just more fun. I do both. However, if I were to choose my favorite, it would be outdoors.

Finding the time to run can be difficult as well. I work a full-time job, volunteer part-time for another, take classes at the local college, and try to fit in a social life. It can be hard to manage. Nevertheless, that’s life, right? Above everything, it’s important to find the time for yourself. Be good to your body. Running is beneficial in so many ways. It’s good for your soul.

All I know is one thing, I will never stop running. The natural high received is better than anything I have ever experienced. I can’t wait to see my progress. I am curious to see where I will be a year from now. Maybe running marathons? We shall see.