Yesterday, I was feeling pretty darn proud of myself after completing my first 5K. Then I went on Facebook and read about 3 friends who had completed Half Marathons, which needless to say, knocked me off my high horse a bit. (But Yay for them! That's awesome!) Even though, in the grand scheme of things, a 5K is easy peasy stuff, I did learn a few things.
~Races are incredibly fun. I'm sure it had something to do with the crazy colored corn starch raining over everyone in this case, but there's a real sense of community that I felt. Everyone is in it together. Even if you're just walking - which I most certainly was - the runners don't seem to mind passing you. And the finish line was absolute mayhem. I've never been a fan of huge crowds but it was fun to be a part of something like that.
~ I walk much too fast for a leisurely stroll and get quite impatient with the people I'm behind if they don't set the same pace I have. It's probably rude, but I was most definitely passing up some walkers and getting nagged by the people I was with for "jetting off". I can't even blame my stride for this one, my little legs just like to go quickly.
~ I will never be a runner, but this whole walking thing is really becoming fun. For the last month or so, I've been averaging about 3 miles a day on my daily walks. That may be a drop in the bucket for marathoners but it's great for me. I'm able to pick up my pace much more easily and I feel great after the walk. I'm not sure what the average is for running a mile but I was super proud of my 3.4 miles in 1.5 hours this morning. Is that good? Probably not, but good for me? Yep!
~ While I hold strongly to the "never going to be a runner" ideal I've set, I'm actually starting to come around to the fact that it looks kind of fun. I probably would pass out if I tried it again (I say again, because I tried once. After 20 feet I decided it wasn't for me), but people actually look like they're getting some sort of enjoyment out of it. And after this morning's brisk walk, it may be in my future - but don't hold me to it.
~ Last but not least, while yesterday's was my first, it will most definitely not be my last. I had so much fun and am looking forward to another one for charity soon!
2 comments:
Good job, Kristen! I am very happy for you. Keep doing the 5ks. They really are fun and you are right--there is a strong sense of community especially when you do the races that are just for fun and not so competitive. I hope we can do one together in the future. :-)
I'd love to, Stef! That would be so fun but I'm thinking I might hold you back : )
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