RUNNING A 5K IS FUN…NO REALLY, IT IS!

I am not what you would call a runner. I do not have an undying need to run everyday and I don’t use phrases like “I went for my short run today” in reference to five miles. I do however enjoy being physically active and promote physical activity through my job. Yesterday I combined work and pleasure by running in a local 5K race with a few of my coworkers.

With some of my coworkers at the start line

It was my second race experience, having done the same 5K in 2007. This year I was less than prepared for the run. On the days leading up to the race I had moments of panic when I realized I committed to running more than three miles and the last time I ran that far was exactly one year prior.

As I stood at the start line Sunday morning I could feel the nervousness and adrenaline surging through my body. I was surrounded by hundreds of people in my lane and hundreds of (crazy) people in the half marathon lane. There was so much electricity and excitement in the air I felt like I could reach up and grab a piece of it. I even made a nervous joke about my heart rate already being high just standing waiting for the countdown. (My heart rate monitor/watch read 138 so it was one of those times when you act like you’re kidding, but really you are completely serious.)

5…4…3…2…1 and the mass begins to move, forcing me along. I turned up my mix of techno, rap and dance music and tried to get into a rhythm. But, right before the one mile mark I started to cramp and had to walk. After walking for about a minute and watching others pass me, I realized it would be more of a mental than physical challenge. At that moment I decided I was going to run the rest of the way not to get a good time, or beat anyone but for my own sense of accomplishment.

So I picked it up again and then I hit the zone. I got into a pace, albeit a slow one, and had tunnel vision with my focus on finishing. With runners all around and spectators cheering I pushed myself to keep running. Then I came around a corner along the River Trail for a glorious sight of the finish. I could hear some of my coworkers cheering me on as I looked down at my feet crossing the finish line. I was greeted with music, food, friends and the satisfaction of completing my goal.

Here I am (left) giving a thumbs-up to my coworker’s husband seconds before finishing.

Despite the challenge, nerves and sweat I experienced, I would encourage anyone to try a 5K race. Not only is it a great way to be active, but most runs are also supporting a cause. Running is an activity that simply requires shoes and stepping out the front door. For those intimidated by running (as I was at first) I would recommend one of my favorite training plans I found called the Couch-to-5K. Then take the step to actually sign up for a race to try to stay motivated and committed.

It does not need to be about finishing first or last. As one of my coworkers pointed out, we all finished before the person sitting at home.