I started running in 11th grade because I wanted to get back in shape for the upcoming basketball season, since I was coming off of an injury. When I joined crossed country that year, that was the moment I fell in love with running. A lot of people always ask me how I can run all the time, because they could never do that. Anyone can run if they really want to, and I always suggest it to anyone. So here are 20 reasons why I run.
1. It's fun. Believe it or not, running can be a lot of fun if you've got the right mindset.
2. It can relieve stress. Whenever I'm stressed out, I always go for a run to clear my head. If I'm ever stuck on a paper or feel like I'm in a rut, going for a run definitely helps.
3. It makes me feel good. I always feel so much better about myself after I run. I feel more confident and happier. And it gives me body confidence when I need it.
4. I love being outside. My favorite is finding a trail through the woods and exploring new places. Sunset runs are absolutely wonderful.
5. I get to wear my pretty running shoes. Since I got new sneakers, I've fallen in love with them. It's like running on a cloud.
6. It gives me an excuse to buy lots of running shorts and sports bras. Everyone knows how comfy workout clothes are, so by running all the time it just gives me more of an excuse to buy them.
7. I get a chance to clear my head. I always feel so much lighter after a good long run. It gives me a chance to think about all the things that are currently stressing me out, or it allows me to figure out the solution to a problem that I've been dealing with. You have to get breathless sometimes to get answers.
8. When you PR it's the greatest feeling. Looking down at your watch and seeing that you cut down your time even if it's by five minutes is one of the best things in the world in my opinion.
9. I get some time to myself. I'm always busy during the day at work, talking to people, and running errands. So when I go running I'm finally able to distance myself from everything (literally).
10. I can eat whatever I want. I tend to justify my eating habits with the phrase, "Well, I went for a run today." Guilt-free eating rocks!
11. It cheers me up when I'm angry or sad. I can blow off some steam without yelling or screaming at someone and then saying something I'll regret later.
12. Makes my legs strong. Who doesn't love when their legs look strong and toned?
13. I like pushing myself to my limits. There are days when I don't think I can finish my run, but I push myself because I know what I'm capable of and I know I can do it.
14. Runner's high is one of the best feelings. Honestly one of my favorite feelings in the world is after you finish a run and all of your endorphins are going wild.
15. It energizes me. I feel re-energized and less sleepy after, which is the opposite of what you think would happen.
16. I feel more productive after. I'm more likely to get more things done after I've finished my workout.
17. I can eat more cookies. Yes, that means I can eat an entire sleeve of cookies and not feel an ounce of regret.
18. It's one thing in life that I can control. I can decide how fast I go, how far I go, or what time I go. It's one thing that I know I will always be in control of.
19. Finding running buddies. Running alone is fun but having someone to match pace with is always great. You can push each other while having some company too.
20. I run for me. We were given hands to hold, lungs to breathe, eyes to see, ears to hear, a mouth to taste, a nose to smell, and legs to run. I run to show others who I am and what I can do. I run to feel good and look good. I run because I can.
Happy running!
