One year ago today, I ran my first (and so far only) half marathon. I remember being filled with so much anticipation and doubt. I had no idea what I had gotten myself into. Of course I finished but it was THE most difficult thing I had ever done in my life. I’m sure I thought of quitting more than I talked myself into continuing on.
A year ago I was still a cardio queen. I stayed away from strength training and I would spend hours on the elliptical and treadmill. This was mainly because of my lack of knowledge. I was comfortable spending hours on the treadmill. I was confident I knew what I was doing. Putting one foot in front of the other is not so hard to do. Thank God I decided to step outside my comfort zone this year.
You can see my time below. I’m the first one on the list. I finished my half marathon with a pace of 15 minutes and 39 seconds. Last month I ran my fastest mile ever in 11 minutes and 29 seconds. That means I’ve cut 4 minutes and 10 seconds off my mile. I’m sure my time would go up if I were running 13 miles but still. That’s huge!!! And my time did not drop because I’ve been running like crazy. Nope. I really don’t ever run at all anymore. Especially not long distances. I truly believe my time has dropped because of all the weight lifting I have been doing.
I’m curious to see what my time would be if I were to run another half marathon now…But I’m not quite ready to commit to that. I’d much rather focus on lifting. I’m so much more in love with the results I’ve seen from picking up heavy things.
The above two photos were taken about a year apart. It’s obvious that I had very little muscle in my back and arms when I was training for my half marathon. And now I just want to flex all the time.
Prior to 2012 I was never a runner. I literally thought I was going to die every time I’d even attempt running. Now, I am proud to say that I can run if and when I want to.
If there is something you’ve been wanting to try but you’re too afraid, just jump into it. I have never had regrets about finishing a half marathon. I have also never had regrets about challenging my body and mind. Push yourself to see what your limits are!
XOXO•Heather
