As far back as I can remember, I have never considered myself to be athletic. Anyone who knows me well will tell you that if someone throws me a ball, I will most likely run the opposite direction instead of catching it. It is pretty sad!I did enjoy ballet dancing until eighth grade, but I wanted to do something different in high school. There were not many options for me because I knew I couldn’t possibly make any sports teams. I was going to a large, public high school where there were many talented athletes. However, when I found out that anyone could run on the cross-country team, I considered running for my high school. Although I was definitely not anywhere near the best on the team, I know that running on the cross-country team in high school was the best decision I could have ever made.

Here are some of my favorite parts about being a runner:

• It is a great form of stress relief. Along with the physical benefits of running, there are also mental benefits. Running is a great way that I can clear my head. It is such a good escape from my chaotic schedule, especially in college. When I’m running, I truly feel at peace, and the feeling lasts for the rest of the day. After I exercise, I am much more productive because I feel less stressed.
• Running helps you to maintain a healthy weight. Gaining the “freshman 15” is a huge concern among many people entering college. I know I definitely had that fear! But do not worry…running will help you to stay in great shape!If you get into a consistent running routine and eat healthily, you will not have a problem.I ran about six days per week in college and ate healthily, while enjoying the occasional treat with my friends. I had no probably maintaining (and even losing a little!) weight. And if I can do it, you can do it too… This simple change in routine may be just what your body needs to be the best shape of your life! So, instead of watching TV and eating chips, go for a run and then eat a few!
• Running releases endorphins. Endorphins trigger a positive feeling in your body and reduce your perception of pain. Who doesn’t want to be happier?
• You can run with your friends. While running alone can be relaxing, it can also be a social activity. It’s so much fun to get a group of friends together and go for a run. When I had cross-country practice after a long day in school, I most looked forward to talking to my friends. Having people to talk to while running distracts you from the difficult task you are doing. Your friends can also motivate you to keep going.When I’m running with my friends or my sister, we encourage everyone to keep it up and not stop and walk…it works!

Hopefully after reading this, you can understand why running is one of my greatest passions. It’s crazy how I started off running maybe a mile per week in seventh grade and then by senior year, I ran a half marathon. As you can see from the pictures below, running is something I love to do with my sister. We have run many races together and are always there to support each other when we are training. So, grab a friend or family member, and start running! I can assure that it will change your life for the better.

With my sister Morgan at Kraft Beer Festival 5K!

Some pics from the Peachtree Road Race!