It’s Been About a Year….
Since I’ve considered myself a *runner*.
In the spring of last year, I broke up with running and bid adieu to races, structured training plans and a whole lot of pressure.
I had ran two half marathons and a boatload of other races, but a few things made me realize that maybe running wasn’t my cup of tea.
I injured myself, which was a huge wake-up call that I was overtraining, and also knew that my favorite running buddy would be gone the rest of the year.
Thinking about long runs without him *could* have motivated me to tackle them on my own (or with a friend), but instead made me dread them.
What I miss about running:
The silence and calm… it was amazing “me” time and a great chance to think
Extra carbs!
(Instead of one of two piece of roti, I’d happily enjoy a whole basket)
New running shoes 🙂
Races
What I DON’T miss about running:
Ice baths!!!!
The whole “training” part
Competing against myself.
Running brought out a different layer of my Type A and perfectionist personality. Every time I ran, I felt like I had to perform better than the last time, which quickly sucked a lot of the run out of it.
Since I quit running, I’ve discovered so many other things that I LOVE:
Strengthening my yoga practice
DANCE TRANCE
Bootcamps and Bodyrock
and extra walks with my best four-legged friend.
I have to admit that after reading the spring race re-caps that have been popping up everywhere, I’ve considered getting back into running. Then, after thinking about it, I decided that if I get the itch to run, I’ll do it for fun sans pressure and leave the Garmin at home… but take my favorite Pilot with me 😉
Maybe running is your bread and butter and that’s what works for you. If that’s the case, awesome, and rock it out 🙂
Just a friendly little reminder to always listen to your body and do what’s best for YOU. There are a thousand workouts in the sea, and you’ll find one that you love and loves you back.
See ya later today!
xoxo
Gina
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I think PB is ready to break up with running. He is running a 10 mile race in less than a month and just hasn’t been motivated to run much. I think he is *over* the training part and just wants to run for fun- because he feels like it!
Anyway, lovely post on such an interesting topic.
I love this post. I would consider the idea that you can still consider yourself a runner even if you have taken an indefinate break. My favorite thing about exercise if that everytime you accomplish a workout, it an accomplishment that will always be a part of you.
I try to remind myself of that daily. I am “a runner” and generally love the solitute and “me time” it provides. That being said, a scheduled run can sometimes be a source of dread, and when that happens, I just ask myself what really sounds like fun, whether its a spin, a walk, a cardio class, and I do that. I never talk about “training” for my triathlons, because my only real strategy is just getting out when I can, and doing whatever sport seems like the most enjoyable for that day, and giving it sincere effort. I try to remind myself that keeping moving is what matters most and enjoying my workouts is what will keep me going for the long haul.
I can also sympathize with missing a workout buddy : ) Bike rides and runs with my man take on a whole new meaning, even if part of that meaning is oogling his cuteness while he sweats next to me : )
I’m all about eye candy when I’m working out too 🙂
amen 🙂
i love what you said about every accomplishment becoming part of us. very true.
Awesome post. I am 100% a non-runner and proud of it. I walk every day, and do yoga and Pilates. You can get the zen/zone out “me time” when walking, too, and you don’t usually end up as a sweaty beast. 😉
I love this post. Not because I’m a runner but because I’m not.
Running isn’t the only form of exercise and sometimes I forget that reading blogs. 😉 And then I try to make myself want to run and the bottom line is, I don’t want to.
Instead, I strength train, rock out on the elliptical, occassional throw in a few incline walks, hit up sculpt classes and pilates and cycle my heart out. Life’s too short to not love what you do. Including exercise.
Good for you for doing what is best for YOU and not just doing whatever everyone else (most bloggers) are doing. Very admirable!!! 😀
Loved the post today – great reminder and well timed for me. Thanks!!!!
Great post today! Thanks! It’s really great to read about a “real” person who finds what they do best and do it, even though it might not be what everyone else is doing.
I needed this post right now! I’ve been struggling with an injury – trying to train for my second half – and I need to listen to my body. It’s been rough because I’ve seen all the race and training bloggies and I start comparing myself to others. Thanks for the reminder that there are so many ways to be fit and healthy. 🙂
Gina thank you for this post!!
I recently posted about my own fitness journey, running, walking, lifting, yoga, etc and what I did, what I do, what I mix and match, etc b/c life evolves and changes and so should our workouts. What worked at age 16 won’t necessarily be what we are doing at age 66.
I love that by breaking up with running, you have done more walks, yoga, dance trance and arent competing with yourself anymore.
I adore the picture of the canyon shot, too. So beautiful!
Wonderful post and yes, seeing ALL The race recaps nonstop the past couple weeks in the sphere makes me miss my racing days a bit too, but life changed and 7am race starts + FT job + FT motherhood are not in my cards these days. 🙂
LOVE this post! I read so many blogs and it seems like everyone loves running. I almost felt like a freak for just not liking it, even though there is definitely a thrill from watching yourself improve and def good aspects to it.
It’s awesome to see one of the most inspirational blogs I read make it clear that it’s totally OK if running is just not your thing! Kickboxing and Yoga/Pilates with strength training are where I get my best results from. And now, even though I spent a ton of $ on running shoes, I finally feel okay to say, “No. I don’t really LOVE running”/
<3
Amen girl…I too broke up with running and have just intermittently been building it up again for fun. Do what you love!
LOVE LOVE LOVE this post, Gina! It’s SO true, however I would run for wine too 😉
Not to sound like a creep, but you have a killer booty! Wish my butt looked as good as yours does in those teal shorts, hahaha
aww thanks girl!
Love this. I don’t consider myself a runner and I rarely run for the sole reason that I get some strange knee/foot/ankle aches afterwards. But at the same time, I always feel like I’m “missing out” on such an amazing workout even though I constantly do kickboxing/yoga/etc. It is always nice to hear that there are others in the same boat–and that running isn’t the only workout out there!!
I have a love-hate relationship with running, too. I think your solution is a good one! My problem is that if I don’t run a few times a week, I lose all my stamina. I am NOT a natural runner by any means!
I LOVE this post! Thank you do writing it. I ran xcountry and track all through high school, continued running on a reg basis in college and just run for fun now and then. Last year when I wasn’t feeling as good about myself, I trained for a 5k for about 6 weeks and it help bring back some self confidence. When I passed the finish line I was proud of myself and my training that had paid off with a good time, but I also wasn’t excited about training or competing again any time soon. So, now I just run when I want (2x this past weekend) and enjoy the benefits of running.
There are soooooo many fun types of cardio out there – why limit yourself to just one? My mom used to run marathons and now she has pains with walking, let alone running. Her experience taught me not to over-train and keep balance in your workout routine. Have a great day!
Really enjoyed your post!! I’ve NEVER been a runner, but over the last few years training for races has helped me achieve some weight loss goals. But lately I’ve been thinking how much I dread the training nowadays. I’ve admitted to myself running isn’t for me. And that makes me sad. Like I’ve failed. Reading your post makes me feel a little less like a loser, and appreciate the things I am good at and love!
Love this post. I always come back to your blog because you make sure to stress that there is food & activities for everyone, and that it’s okay to be marchin’ to the beat of your own drummer!
I love this post! I am a runner but I do not run with a garmin. I definitely have perfectionist tendencies that can get out of hand. For me, I can’t time myself or running will turn from being fun to being a stressful chore. Good for you for doing whats right for you 🙂
I can’t get into running, and I’ve finally accepted it and stopped comparing myself to other bloggers and athletes. I can be just as athletic without it!
Great post! I am trying to “make” myself be a runner, but I don’t think it will ever happen. I can’t stand the thought of ice baths or running for more than an hour, tops, even with the excellent calorie burn. I’ll stick to my 5ks & spin classes.
I really connected with this post Gina!!! I ran my first (official) race recently and my sister who is a runner was for sure I would be set for running the rest of my life….but I don’t know after the fact that I LOVE the training aspect of it and being so hard on myself if I wasn’t getting better with every run. I LOVE the variety of workouts…so I think that is what I will stick with but I will go for runs so I can enjoy them and get a good workout with some maybe fun races in between.
This came at the perfect time, as I just suffered my first running injury this year. On my first outside run of the year. Just this morning. I fell into a pothole and rolled my ankle pretty badly. Definitely my own fault as I should have watched where I was going. I love running for all the reasons you listed. It’s my “me” time and it gives me time to think about things. I also enjoy other forms of exercise especially in the winter, because I hate treadmill running. I really wish we had a dance trance here in Chicago.
great post! I’m not a runner either, but I still kick my butt working out darnit!!
Thank you for this post Gina. It’s so hard to compare yourself to others (and other bloggers) who are all about some running and you instantly feel that that is what you should be doing also. Thanks for helping some of us (me included) remember that running is not the end all in the workout realm. There are tons of other kick butt workouts as well.
Have a great day!
I love this post! While i never got as in to running as you did, I do miss it and definitely found myself trying to compete with myself each day trying to run harder, until my foot said nope… you will no longer run. sigh. 🙁
Hi Gina! First I want to tell you that I LOVE your blog!! I just started reading it a few moths ago and honestly can never seem to get enough.I was diagnosed at the age of 13 months old with type 1 diabetes and my love with health and fitness started all from there. I to try to eat as clean as possible with organic and raw foods as much as I can(I live in a small town in Canada with no wholefoods or trader joe’s in sight). I too LOVE nut butters of all kind and enjoy making them myself over store bought ones.
Another thing I can’t get enough that I thought you might like also is called “Holy Crap”www.holycrap.ca
Sorry this comments so long but like I said I just wanted to share seeing as you share all your favorites!! Thanks so much 🙂
thanks so much for reading and for your sweet comment! can’t wait to check that out 🙂
xoxo
I stopped running 6 months ago and never looked back. I switched to weight training 5 days a week (Layne Norton Routine) and it gets my heart rate up so high, I never feel like I’m missing out. Did I mention I love the extra muscle I have now! My body is much happier with MOAR MUSCLE. 🙂 We all just gotta do what we love and what works for us!
Oh my gosh, I needed this today! I ran hardcore from a year and am still recovering from ankle tendoitis! I saw Dance Trance in Southern Living and have been DYING to go, but the only classes they have in Texas are in Dallas and I’m in San Antonio. How is it different than Zumba? Do you like it better? Are you thinking about running again? I’m trying to figure out how to incorporate it after I get healed up. I know I’ll never do the mileage I was–I was thinking little 5- min circuits between circuit training…I’m tired of bum ankles!
So glad I popped in today!
there are DT classes everywhere- check out the website!
Gina I love your uniqueness!! That what keeps coming back everyday. I love that your into fitness and a healthy lifestyle, not just running because everyone else does. I am a cyclist and when I read about everyone running I feel like I should be running instead, but then I remember I am good a cycling! I hate the comparison trap that reading blogs can sometimes bring and I struggle with it alot! I have recently put on some weight, but I dont want to compare myself to others…..thats why I love you, you aren’t like all the other fitness blogs!
<3
I’ve been healing from an injury for the past month or so and miss running for the very same reasons you mentioned. Although I’m still working out hard, I miss the silence and time to myself, just running and enjoying the outdoors!
I love this post, mainly because I am not a runner. My favorite workout is Zumba..I don’t know why it’s not talked about more often in the blog world!
I love running! Some people just don’t have the commitment level to stick with it. What’s happening with your house anyway Girl??
Update coming this afternoon!
you and Pilot are so cute!
In that second to last picture with you and bella, your legs are KILLER! I am ready to do whatever workout you are doing 🙂
I have to say you are my favorite healthy blogger, your always changing and open to new ideas. It’s fun to grow with you!
Glad your running partner is back 🙂
thank you!! <3
Thanks for this post! I try so hard to be a runner, but it’s just not my thing. I like to be reminded that running isn’t the be-all-end-all of workouts 🙂
One of the reasons why I love your blog is because it is NOT running centric. I’ve tried running SO MANY FREAKING TIMES. ALL my siblings ran cross country/track/whatevs and I HATE IT. I’ve always felt so guilty when the rest of my fam is sharing running stories and I sit there talking about my workout DVDs (which are KILLER btw). However, reading your blog makes me so happy, I know that I am fit and healthy without running. Props to you!
props to YOU for figuring out what works best for you 🙂
Awesome post! I am def. not a runner. I tried to be, but it’s torture on my knees. Even 2 mile runs cause my knees to ache the next day. Dance trance looks like fun! I really need to check out the group class schedule at my gym!
I am considering doing Insanity…what are your thoughts on it?
check out the link in the post- my whole re-cap is there for ya 🙂
Hi Gina, I love running (but I suck at it and try not to care too much). I’ve been lurking for ages, love love your blog and just was compelled to respond today, because that really struck a cord with me, that is really what exercise should and can be, something that you love that loves you back! In the past I’ve hurt myself and just sat around, but in the last year or so, I’ve invested in finding back-up exercises, I still love running, but now I love yoga and aerobics and the odd pump class, and they’re all valid and great ways to stay fit and happy too.
thanks so much for saying 🙂
so glad you’ve found some more exercise options that you enjoy!
Amen to doing what feels right for you! When we’re constantly reading about other bloggers’ workout routines, it’s way too easy to fall into that trap of comparing, and lose sight of what really works for us.
I was getting ready to comment to say I LOVED this post today and noticed so many other people saying the same thing! It really is a great post. It makes me feel good, because I have been training for a 5k. I know that isn’t a huge distance, but it’s what works for me and I’m loving it. It took me a while to realize that longer distances aren’t really my thing. Now I can focus on getting better with each 5k! As well as continue my cross training with fun cardio classes at my gym!
Thanks for the reminder of all of the other fun fitness pursuits out there. I had to give up running a couple of years ago due to knee problems–severe arthritis… in my 20s! I took up biking, but I’ve been curious about P90X and the other video programs out there. It’s so easy to get in a rut. Thanks for the inspiration!
I’m currently training for my first 1/2 marathon, with less than a month to go before the big run I’m definitely feeling the pressure. Like you, I’m very competitive and just can’t stand to not constantly be improving! Your post made me think about my overall goal, to finish a 1/2 marathon and be healthy!
Beautiful post, Gina! Reading the race recaps makes me want to get into running, but then I remember that it’s never been my thing. Currently I’m happy practicing yoga and walking. I would love to try dance trance or zumba, but unfortunately, they don’t offer it in my area. Anyway, it’s nice to hear stories from non-runner fit girls. I try not to compare, but it is nice to have a bit of affirmation that you don’t have to be a runner to be fit and healthy.
Have a lovely day!
i feel the same way about running at the moment there are so many positives to it but i feel as though my training is preventing me on enjoying other forms of exercise
I’ve stopped running because I’ve lot the verve for it. I love that you can talk about NOT running openly (I feel like the grim reaper for not liking it anymore). Thank you for being a leader in fitness health and happiness regardless of workout type
Sometimes I totally agree that you have to exercise sans garmin and HRM so I do not obsess over distance, time, and calories!
Just this weekend I was talking to an elite runner, and I told him my time has suffered due to an injury. While I can still run fast it hurts A LOT. He asked me, do you want to be able to run with your kids someday? So now when I’m running SLOW I keep thinking about that!!! I’m very competitive against myself, and feel the same as you about my runs, each run should be better than the last.
GREAT post.
I used to be an obsessive runner. I constantly raced, freaked at myself if I missed a workout, religiously followed my training plan, and actually found myself turning down social invitations from friends because I didn’t want to miss a run/screw up my training with a drink. Wow. I totally had a problem, and had no idea at the time! I think my breakup occured after my last marathon. Suddenly, a bunch of my friends wanted to start training for races too (before, I was the only one who ran) and I found myself becoming secretly jealous if I felt like they were more “serious” about it than I was. I NEVER wanted any of my friends to become faster than me or beat me at races. After a while, I realized how messed up this was, and the fact that I wasnt actually enjoying running at ALL. I REALLY didn’t enjoy it. I used it as a way to pressure myself, to set standards for perfection that I could never achieve, and to hide from a lot of my issues.
Lately, I dont run much anymore, though I do enjoy walking and occasionally HIIT workouts on the treadmill. Mostly, I lift weights, do yoga, and get my cardio in the form of walking and playing basketball and other gym stuff like the elliptical, stairmaster, and spinning. I enjoy all of these things a lot, and I am SO MUCH HAPPIER NOW. Breaking up with running was the best thing I ever did. 🙂