Reflections

Today marks exactly 4 weeks from my first run. That fateful day, March 31st, when I promised Sasha I would TRY running, despite the cold and the rain. That step has grown into something that is having a powerful impact on my life.

I have run in the hail and pouring rain. I have run with a stomach ache, with allergies, and with a sore throat. I have run when I was tired, with sore muscles, and after long days at work. The point is, I've kept running consistently 3 days a weeks since that first day. Honestly, I've surprised myself. I didn't think I could run. The mental changes include overcoming self doubt and a lifetime of believing in my own limitations. My confidence continues to grow and I have days where I know I AM a runner.

The physical transformation: after 3 weeks I noticed significant improvements in the strength of my heart and lungs. This did not come easily. My first week of running, in particular, I was physically exhausted for a full day after each run. My resting heart rate has slowed. My calves are hardly recognizable, increasing in size, strength, and definition. I look down at my legs and I'm starting to see the legs of a runner. Didn't know I had it in me. :)