In early January I began running, and within a week or so I was already able to run for an hour without stopping at a pace of 6 mph. I decided that I’d train to run the half-marathon in June and have been running between one and three times a week ever since.

Today when I went for my run I realized, at the 30-minute mark, that I wasn’t enjoying it quite as much as I had been. I was feeling a bit bored and restless this morning, so I slowed down to a walk and cranked up the incline for the last stretch instead. Walking is the one activity that never bores me—I love it passionately!

Enjoying activities is really important to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. There are so many different ways to get moving that everyone can find something that they like.

If you’re taking a class or playing a sport that you don’t have much fun with, then you’re not going to get the most out of it and you’ll likely just end up resenting all forms of exercise. The key is to find something that you really love doing, and then adding in other activities from time to time to mix it up a little so you’re continually challenged and motivated.

My experience with running…

I’ve never really thought of myself as much of a runner. I usually prefer skiing, skating, cycling, or dancing, as opposed to running.

But perhaps I’ve learned the proper technique of how to run, or my body has just adapted to the idea of it. Regardless, there are times when I really don’t feel much like running so I tell myself that I’ll just run for 10 minutes… and usually that turns into 20, and 30, and oftentimes I’ll keep running for the full hour. It seems a much less daunting task when you break it into smaller increments of 10 and 15 minutes!

I’m going to keep plugging away with my running and try to shoot for that half marathon in June. Even if I can’t complete it at a really fast pace, I’d still like to be able to do it. And in the meantime, between running on the treadmill, I think I’ll try switching it up and running outside (because I’m sure that the different terrain plus the wind will be more of a challenge).

I’d also like to try out a dance class and work some muscles that wouldn’t otherwise be used. That spark of motivation is so much stronger if there’s the challenge of a new way to energize your body.

When I had a membership to the YMCA I attended their step classes and kickboxing classes religiously and enjoyed them immensely. Working out in the context of a class full of people you don’t know helps you to step outside of your comfort zone, which can additionally help you to step up the intensity of your workout. And if the idea of leaving your house doesn’t appeal much, there’s loads of fun fitness videos to try out.

All you have to do is get moving. Have a fun (and active) weekend!

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