What you may not know is that this two time marathoner and 16 time half marathoner used to hate every single thing about running. I hated running to the bus, I hated running a mile in gym class and when someone suggested that I run somewhere I laughed a deep chuckle. So how did all of that change?? Glad you asked.
I got engaged in Disney World in August of 2005. I was so insanely excited to have the wedding of my dreams and I had two entire years to plan it. I also knew I wanted to lose weight, I wanted to be a size eight by my wedding day. So I joined a gym close to my job and went faithfully every single night after work. I quickly got sick of jumping on the elliptical every single day and I was curious about WHY there was an actual line for treadmills everyday at 5:15pm.
I went online and found the Couch 2 5k program. It seemed manageable enough. It was a super slow build up program that taught your body how to run for 35-40 minutes straight at the end of 12 weeks. It was super intimidating because I couldn’t barely run for a minute but I put trust in the program.
I jumped in with both feet and was cruising along until the program called for 10 minutes straight of running. It scared me. It took me a smooth 3 weeks to get through it. Once I did though? The confidence came quickly and stayed for good. Once I completed the program I kept at it, probably TOO much because after months of running for 60 minutes straight DAILY (the weight was falling off so easily I was afraid to stop!) I developed a runners knee injury. I ended up losing more than I needed to, but it would be years (2014) before I picked up the running bug again, this time for good. Now I run because it teaches me that I can do ANYTHING I put my mind to. Especially if I work hard to prepare for it.
Today I’m teaming up with my favorite runner bloggers to chat about their motivating running stories and maybe you will be inspired too!
Runner Bloggers Share Their Motivating Running Stories
Allie @ VITA Train 4 Life
Laura @ This Runner’s Recipes
Angela @ Happy Fit Mama
For more running stories check out:
3 Easy Running Recovery Tips To Get You Back On The Pavement Faster
How did you start your running journey?
Hi! I’m Nellie. I am a busy mama of three, wife to my high school sweetheart who loves to cook, workout and stay organized! I love to share helpful printables, the best recipes and fitness tips for the modern mom. I strongly believe that every mom can feed their family well, take proper care of themselves and have fun along the way! Read my story.
Get comfortable and be sure to come hang out with me on social. Don’t grab your free fitness journal before you go!
Shivam
Friday 23rd of November 2018
Really great and inspiring story. People usually don't realise what their passion is right away. I take time and many experiences to truly know what we love to do and what is our passion but once you find it, you don't let it go, you hold onto it. Thanks for the great inspiring story of yours, Nelly.
Laura Norris
Tuesday 30th of October 2018
The confidence that comes with running is the best part. I hope all goes well as your baby girl arrives soon!
kita
Friday 26th of October 2018
I only run if a bear or something is after me lol. Let me get through walking and then I can tackle the run lol.
Allie
Wednesday 24th of October 2018
Oh I fondly remember the Nellie who hated running!!! I also remember being SO super excited when you finally started up (again!) and were checking off NYRR races like it was your job. Like everything else you bring such a great perspective and unique enthusiasm to running and I love that you will probably now be a runner for life...as soon as you give life one more time :-) Good luck with that baby girl!!!