Why I Run

Three years ago, I could not run for five minutes. I was thirty-one, I worked at a desk all day, and I felt tired all the time. Then a friend invited me to a Saturday running group, and — very slowly — everything changed. I have run with that group ever since. At first, every run hurt, and my breath came short and fast after two streets.

Running is part of my weekly routine now: I run four mornings a week, usually before work. It gives me energy for the whole day. When I run, my head becomes clear, and problems from work feel smaller. My stress does not disappear, but it is much easier to carry.

Last spring, I finished my first 10-kilometer race. I was not fast — hundreds of people finished before me — but when I crossed the line and got my small medal, I cried a little. My family was waiting near the finish with a camera and a bottle of cold water. A year earlier, I could not imagine doing that.

My next goal is a half marathon in October. But when people ask me why I run, the goal is not the real answer. It is not about winning. It is about starting the day with one thing I chose for myself, before emails, meetings, and everyone else's plans. If you are thinking about starting, my advice is simple: start slowly, and do not run alone. Find a group. The group carries you on the hard days.