Truths from a Not So Skinny Runner

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Skinny is not a word I have ever been able to use to describe myself. Athletic...sometimes; healthy...maybe; overweight...more often than I care to admit; but skinny? Lets just say that once puberty hit, that word left my vocabulary and didn't come back. I know that many of you can identify and say the same about yourselves. So, from one "big girl" to another, here are 5 truths I've learned about running, and 5 reasons why you should stop stalling and start today!

5 Truths

1. The first 5 minutes of any run are the worst, no matter how much you weigh or how skinny you are/are not. Your body has to get used to moving and your muscles need time to warm up. Don't give up, push past that first burn.
2. You will be sore. When I first started running as an overweight woman, my hips ached after only a few minutes simply because of the weight they were carrying and the jostling of my body as I ran. You might have sore knees, joints, or a sore butt. The key thing is to keep moving. If you are sore the next day, go for a walk and warm those muscles up to give them a good stretch.
3. No matter what mood you are in when you start, running will release endorphins and help decrease stress levels and raise your spirits.
4. Your thighs will rub together, or maybe even clap if you are wearing shorts. Don't worry, do what you can to prevent chaffing and keep going.
5. Until you find the right running outfit for you, you will probably be uncomfortable. Some people like to run in spandex and tighter shirts, others prefer baggy pants and loose tees. Try a few different things until you feel good and aren't fidgeting with your clothes while you run.

 

5 Reasons to Start

1. It doesn't matter how fast you run, and you don't have to start sprinting at the beginning. No one is timing you, and even in a race the only person you have to worry about is yourself. There will be plenty of time to work on getting faster, you have to start somewhere.
2. Running is a great way to meet new people. If you have ever run a race or volunteered at one, you know that runners can be very friendly and welcoming. At almost every race I have gone to, I end up chatting with runners I have never met, and sometimes even running with them. There is a great support system and camaraderie between runners.
3. Have a lot going on or need to make some decisions? Going for a run can clear your mind and help you focus on the big picture instead of dwelling on the little things.
4. Not only is running a good choice of cardio to help you lose weight, it is also good for building endurance and muscle strength.
5. It is an inexpensive way to start or continue your fitness journey. You don't need equipment or a gym membership to go for a run. With limitless options for changing the scenery and adding variety, you're more likely to stick with it.

I always thought that I hated running, until I gave it a shot and decided to start training for a charity 5k with my best friend. You don't have to be in perfect shape, or be an olympic athlete to enjoy running. Anyone and everyone should try it and see if it is right for them.

Do you have a "truth" you would add to this list? Tell me in the comments below.

*Please only leave encouraging and fun comments, this is not the place to shame or offend anyone.*