STRONG IDEA: Become a RUNNER
By Emily Stapleton on July 29, 2013 from Strong Ideas
One of the most common phrases spoken by new exercisers (or even seasoned exercisers) is: “I’m not a runner.” For some reason, many people feel threatened or frightened by the act of running. Further, even if they do some running, many people won’t call themselves a RUNNER. Why?
I AM a RUNNER! And I’m proud to say so! Throughout my years as a fitness enthusiast, I have participated in numerous types of exercise. And I plan to continue practicing many of my favorites and trying lots of new ones. That being said, I always return to running.
Why? Just a few of the reasons:
· I can walk out my front door and just go.
· I don’t need any equipment, except a good pair of shoes (even that is debatable these days…but more on that another day).
· Running doesn’t cost anything.
· I can do it on my own schedule.
· I can do it alone (or with a friend).
· I can vary my workout by simply adding hills or changing my pace.
· It’s always a great cardio workout and I can incorporate strength work.
There was a time when I ran, but didn’t actually call myself a RUNNER. I thought I didn’t run far enough or fast enough. I thought I hadn’t completed enough races. I thought being called a RUNNER was something special. I was right about one thing…being called a RUNNER is special. I was wrong about another…I was already a RUNNER. What I didn’t realize at the time, but I do now, is that all you have to do to be a RUNNER is RUN! Yah, it’s that simple.
So back to my original question, why are you hesitant to call yourself a RUNNER? The title RUNNER carries with it many connotations of power, strength, confidence and accomplishment. Many people aren’t ready to put that connotation on themselves.
When we try to instill confidence and strength in our children, we tell them they are strong, smart, funny, clever, pretty, etc. Guess what? This works for grownups too. Calling yourself a RUNNER, will build confidence in you as a person. Go ahead, try, it. Follow my 10 steps to calling yourself a RUNNER:
1. If you already run (even on occasion, even as part of another workout), skip to step 7.
2. Put on some athletic shoes.
3. Walk out the door.
4. Choose to go left or right.
5. Run, until you get tired.
6. Return home.
7. Call yourself a RUNNER! (go ahead, say it out loud).
8. Repeat steps 2 – 7 often.
9. Watch yourself grow stronger and more physically fit.
10.Watch yourself become more confident and accomplished.
Yah, it really is that simple.
Until Next Week,
Emily Stapleton
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