Why I Run

I read a few running blogs and it got me thinking about why I run. Initially I started running to control my weight and I assumed it would just be another form of exercise that I tried and hated but I fell in love with it so now I run because I can and because I want to. Oh and so that I can eat whatever I want and not feel consumed in guilt.

Spaghetti and syrup and candy, oh my!

Running is also my therapy, when life gets me down I put on my runners, grab my ipod and head out of the door. I was injured (tendinitis and plantar fasciitis) over Christmas and New Year so couldn't run and thought I was going insane. Luckily I have an awesome physio who has got me back out there again.

Running with a touch of freestyle dancing thrown in

I run to feel good about myself, to become stronger and more confident. It helps me kick my low self-esteem up the butt and reminds me how amazing I am.

WW has totally nailed the Power Pose

It challenges me to push myself and achieve things I never thought were possible.

Through running, I've met some great people and become part of a new family.

My Pegs

I still run for all those reasons but now I have a new one to add to the list. I now also run to help me deal with my grief over losing my Dad.

He died last weekend and I feel as though my world has ended. The day after he died, I got up and went out for a run. I ran and I cried for 9.5 miles. There were times during that run when I just wanted to give up and go home so I could crawl into bed and not come out again but I kept going. I kept reminding myself that he wouldn't want me to give up.

I feel that it's even more important to train for my marathon now, he'd sponsored me to do it so would want me to keep going and would be so mad at me if I didn't.

So the Manchester marathon, my first ever marathon, is for you Dad. I love you and miss you every day xx