Runners' Corner

Have you noticed? Have you seen more runners out there lately. These are the seasoned and dedicated ones. You can tell by their gear and the confidence they run with. The posture is tall, the arms are bent 90 degrees and moving straight forward and back. The stride is full. I wish I could do that!

The beginners are just starting to think about it...

With that little bit of warmer weather we had, spring fever is starting to set in a bit. The knowledge of March being just around the corner is creating a stir. That freedom, I spoke of last week, is beckoning us. Being out in that mild weather, the warmer sun, with a soft fresh breeze against our face is very tempting!

Then we think of the extra layer of poundage we tend to put on during the winter. Running would certainly help us lose that! Running would firm up our legs, help them become stronger. Running would help us lose that excess around the middle. Running would strengthen our heart and lungs. Running would be soooooo good for us! Yes! Let's run!

But then the doubts start to creep in. Can I do it? Will my knees hold out? I'll probably just start and then quit after a while. When am I going to do it? How am I going to have time? Each one of us will have at least one reason, (And probably more than 10!) why we won't succeed?

So let's stop right here!

If someone else approached us and told us they were going to start running. And they were quite excited about it! What would you say to them? Would you berate them the same way you berate yourself! Would you talk to them like you talk to yourself? No! I would imagine you would give them words of encouragement and hope they will have success. Now, let us do that same thing for ourselves! Let's encourage ourselves and give ourselves hope! Let's give ourselves a chance!

If your gung ho and ready to go! Grab some proper running shoes and get out there! Just do it!But, if you are one of those people who can identify with the mind chatter similar to what I have written above, then I would suggest finding a partner, running group or clinic to start with. Studies have shown that exercising or running with a partner increases your success greatly! They keep you company. They get you out when you might not have gone on your own. And they offer some motivation and encouragement along the way.

Running clinics offer education and tips to help you overcome some of the problems you may encounter. They help you to meet other runners. If you are interested in finding a running clinic, check with your local gym or community centre. The Running Room (a Canadian born running store) hosts great clinics regularly. And LET'S GET FIT is hosting one starting in March!

I hope to see you out there! And if you are just starting to run or exercise, we would love to hear your experiences, comments and questions! It is always great to hear of other's trials and victories on this path to health!

Actively Yours
Sandra Maltby-Mills
letsgetfit@bellnet.ca