One night recently when Randy and I were sitting at a bar on a date, I overheard a conversation happening next to us about running. A woman was talking about a race she had either recently ran or had coming up (NOT the Boston marathon) and a man was effectively questioning the point of running as competition. “With all the competitive sports out there, why go running? You can do that anywhere, any time! I guess there’s something about people running ALL TOGETHER?” I didn’t hear the woman’s reply but it got me thinking. Do people look down on running as a “sport”? Is it even considered a sport? I understand that a lot of people get bored while running and it’s certainly not exciting to watch like other sports. So does that make it pointless? Why do people run? Here are some reasons I do:

As I’ve said before, I’m not naturally athletic. I’ve worked hard over the last few years to build my strength, agility, and endurance. Running allows me to push myself to be better (measurably, with a pace watch like a Fitbit) without anyone watching and without worrying about letting a team down if I don’t perform well. The only person I can really disappoint is myself. But there is also self-discipline involved because while there’s no one for me to let down, there’s also no one else encouraging me to get out of bed and go when I don’t want to. I have to be my own “hype” person and encourager when things get tough. So in this way, running builds mental discipline and stamina without the fear of failing a team.

More personally, I have almost no hand-eye coordination! I was born cross-eyed and had surgery on my eyes as a baby. I now wear glasses to help but my depth perception still isn’t perfect. This makes sports that involve throwing and catching balls VERY hard for me. So really; running, cycling, and lifting weights are my best forms of physical activity and I just compete against myself. So “with all the other competitive sports out there,” that’s why I choose to run. Why do you? Or if you don’t, what’s your preferred method of competitive sport?

Some questions I’ve been asked about my training:

What are you using to train? I use the Peloton app! They have a half-marathon training program as well as a full marathon program. The half-marathon program consists of 10 weeks and four runs per week varying in length and difficulty.

What weighted vest are you using and are you liking it? Here’s the link to the vest! I have it set to the lowest weight, which is 11 lbs. The added weights were “bumping” against my ribs too much and after two runs, it was a little painful so I ditched those and left it at just the sand-filled vest. It still adds enough weight to slow me down–my pace is not nearly as quick as it’s been in the past without the vest. I love-hate using it! Love it because I know it’s making me stronger but hate it because of the obvious: it’s challenging and I know I’d be faster without it. I do find it relatively comfortable all things considered. I wear it while walking my dog and while doing my push-ups everyday. (THAT’S challenging!)

How far have you run so far? The farthest I’ve run in one session in this program so far is 4-4.5 miles in 45 minutes. I’ve done that about five times. Next week I have my first 60 minute session and hope to get in a solid 6 miles at least. I’ve run for an hour before but not recently! Again, these are slower times than I’m used to due to the vest and the cold–I’m still waiting to be able to run and breathe comfortably in over 30* temperatures!

Time for this week’s round up. Staying away from social media during lent has led to taking way less pictures, and I think that’s a good thing. We’re just enjoying our days and the GRADUALLY warming temperatures. Here are some pics from the week. 1-3) On Monday I took my three older kids to the Van Gogh Immersion Experience in Worcester, MA. It was fantastic! They are still open Thursday-Monday and if you’re local, you should check it out! I homeschool my five kids and love the freedom in learning it affords us. 4) We’ve made quite a few varieties of cookies this week! Emmalyn made some on her own and little bit of flour she got on her cheek was too adorable. 5-6) My gorgeous cousin is expecting her first baby and the girls and I went to her baby shower Saturday. It was a nice treat after my long run that morning.

This week started the official beginning of spring! In case you haven’t seen it yet, check out my spring activities BINGO sheet for families! How many of the screen-free activities can you check off as a family? Here’s the link, and the bingo card will come straight to your inbox. Happy spring! https://stan.store/raising_little_seekers/p/get-the-free-spring-bingo-card-now