Why Run?

Why do you run?

In my quest to run 1000 miles, I'll answer the first question: Why?

The age old question. The joke in my house comes from a quote from the Bible, "The wicked run when no one is chasing them... - Proverbs 28:1". But I have been asked before why I run (or exercise). Here's why:

I exercise for the sheer enjoyment. Exercise in general doesn't have to be a sweat-dripping, fire-breathing session every time. I do enjoy testing my limits from time to time, but in general, I'm thankful that I CAN exercise and simply enjoy the feeling of being active. Especially with having young children, I want to teach them that being active is fun and should be done for enjoyment, and not just because I want to get in better shape. Framing the right mentality, especially in kids is important.

I exercise for the health benefits.  This seems to be the global reason for exercise, or at least why we SHOULD do it. But countless studies show the benefits of even mild to moderate exercise. Simply for me, it's burning extra calories I wouldn't have otherwise burned. In the future, I'll detail a little more about my fitness journey, but exercise was one key component in significant weight loss I experienced.

I exercise to prove to myself what I'm capable of. I mentioned this earlier, but I enjoy testing myself. Setting and then meeting or beating a fitness goal feels so empowering to me. Beating the limits that either I or someone else has placed on me feels amazing. Just seeing my own progress and knowing that I'm stronger or faster gives me that extra boost to push a little harder or a little further. Everyone's goals are different, and sometimes taking that first step is more than you've ever done before.

I love exploring the 'why' behind the 'what'. This is my why, but I'd love some feedback on what motivates you. Let me know!