Finding my Stride

Despite my aversion to running, I found the challenge and weight loss benefits as motivators which encouraged me to persevere. Running isn’t comfortable but being fat isn’t comfortable either. My feet hurt, my knees hurt… But it was time to trade one discomfort for another.

Steve Harvey sums it up perfectly, “Success is not a comfortable procedure. You have to be comfortable, being uncomfortable.”

To boost my running motivation, my wife and I registered for a Thanksgiving 5K event.

I was new to organized racing and felt apprehensive. But my motivation to push myself beyond my limits kept me driven.

Despite shedding 40 pounds running was still challenging. I continued to practice around my neighborhood. Ultimately, venturing out to various trails in my city. I enjoyed the changes in scenery and even found peace exploring new places.

I continued to challenge myself by setting incremental goals, breaking my runs into manageable segments, alternating between running and walking. This helped me not only measure my progress but also gave me a visual goal. “Run to that light pole” or “Run to that intersection” I would tell myself.

Eventually, the big day arrived. It was race day! I didn’t know what to expect. Would I be the last person to cross the finish line? Would I be ridiculed by the seasoned runners and athletes? Would I even finish? I have gone the 5K distance many times on my own but I still felt pressure and uncertainty. Did I even belong here?

At the starting line, surrounded by hundreds of other runners and spectators, I had a mix of emotions. Excitement, adrenaline, nerves and doubt all swirled together. I took a breath and told myself no matter what happens I will continue to put one foot in front of the other. One step at a time. I have trained for this. I do belong here. Considering where I started, just a few short months ago, even standing here is a significant achievement. This race is really just a victory lap. A moment to acknowledge my progress and reflect on the journey which brought me here. I still have work to do but I’m closing the chapter on obesity.

The starting pistol went off and I burst out of the corral surpassing my usual pace. The initial thrill clouded my judgment, and I didn’t realize my mistake until I hit the first hill. It seemed like Mount Everest. I overextended myself. I was already exhausted and needed to take a walking break.

I knew walking during the race would be necessary. I haven’t yet built up enough endurance to actually run an entire 5K without slowing to a walk. But I hoped I could at least knock out the first mile before taking a walking break. I realized I set a pace too fast. A walking break was necessary. Regardless, I kept putting one foot in front of the other. After catching my breath and with the encouragement of my wife I picked the pace back up again.

As I rounded the final bend, the finish line came into view. The cheers of spectators ringed in my ears, and the thunder of my own heartbeat all blended together in a deafening crescendo. With one last burst of energy, I picked up the pace and sprinted across the line. The sense of pride, accomplishment, and relief washed over me as I slowed to a stop, my chest heaving with exhaustion. I had done it – I completed my first 5K race, and the feeling was indescribable.

While my time wasn’t remarkable, I felt a sense of accomplishment. I finished mid-pack. Hundreds ahead of me but still hundreds behind me.

Taking on a 5K may seem daunting, but trust me, the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel as you cross the finish line is unparalleled. It’s a journey that will push you out of your comfort zone, and the growth and pride you’ll gain are well worth it. Don’t worry if you’re new to running – with a consistent mindset and dedication, anyone can conquer a 5K. So why not take the leap and sign up? It’s a great way to add focus to your own weight loss and health journey.

The finish line was just the beginning for me. Since that first 5K event I’ve gone on to run several more organized 5Ks.

And who knows maybe I’ll even run longer races in the future….. 😉