Chapter 1: The Start of Something New

It wasn't a graceful beginning...

This is a photo of my running shoes!

Facing significant health challenges like a fused lower back, thyroid problems, and kidney disease, I had also dealt with full-body joint damage due to arthritis. At the time, I was 60 pounds overweight, which made my first attempt at running quite the challenge. Despite feeling like a chaotic mess, I was fueled by determination.

I recognized that the fear I felt about running was a signal that I needed to push myself. So, I stepped outside, feeling incredibly self-conscious, convinced that everyone was watching me. After 40 years of inactivity, my only previous experience was a brief stroll.

My initial strides were clumsy, resembling awkward little hops. I repeatedly questioned my decision but managed to keep moving. Each hop turned into a series of steps—still awkward, but I felt a sense of progress. (Admittedly, I only moved about five feet, but it felt significant.) After a few more hops, I decided to call it a success and returned home, utterly exhausted.

Just a few days later, I was back at it, stringing together my hop-steps with a newfound confidence. I downloaded a fantastic app, "Just Run 0 to 5k!" and eventually found myself with a shaky version of running that matched my husband's walking pace.

Yet it was mine, and that was more than enough.

The next challenge was to build my stamina. My initial goal was to run through an entire song. It took a few weeks, but I achieved it! I proudly completed my slow, awkward run during “The Greatest (I’ve Got Stamina)” by Sia!

Chapter 2: Progress and Acceptance

Fast forward a year, and I’m still engaging in my slow, awkward hop-step running, but now I can sustain it for a full 35 minutes! smile

I've since transitioned to using the Nike Run Club app, which I absolutely love! A special shoutout goes to Coach Bennett, who provides audio guidance for many of the runs. His encouragement during the “First Run,” “Second Run,” and “I Don’t Wanna Run, Run” segments always lifts my spirits.

I don’t harbor any dreams of becoming a star athlete—honestly, that's not my goal. It took some time, but I’ve come to terms with the fact that my running style differs from others. My strides are short, my speed is limited, and my form may not be textbook, but it works for me.

In fact, I’ve embraced the fact that this is my unique running journey—and that's perfectly okay. It's not just okay; it’s fantastic! I proudly identify as a runner! :D

If I can overcome these obstacles, then anyone can. Do you have any experiences of pushing through fear and rising to the occasion? I'd love to hear your stories! They truly inspire! :D