Reason for Running #11 --- Weight Control

This reason could be considered a branch off of my first reason for running: Health. I recently got on the scale and was not happy with what the numbers looking up at me. At that point I knew I had to do something about my weight and what better method of getting the weight off than getting back to running. I have taken quite a bit of time off lately, hence the jump in weight, but getting motivated in this heat is like trying to sleep on a bed of thorns... not going to happen.

After tipping the scales at the beginning of the month, I felt it was time to work on my diet and start a decent exercise routine. As always I wanted to get out the door and start running 6 or more miles a day, but that is unrealistic in this weather and at my current fitness level. Out of the thirteen days so far this month I have only exercised about half of them. All on the treadmill or stationary bike in the house, but that has been enough to notice a difference in my energy levels and on the scale. Its not like I have lost a person or anything, but a few pounds a week is enough to keep me motivated.

With the weight starting to come off, the energy levels going up, I am hoping to move from the indoor running/biking to outdoor running/biking. I need to begin reflecting back on some of my previous posts and work toward some specific goals. Would be happy to hear input from everyone out there who may read these posts. Thank you for following in my really sporadic postings. I believe that I may start posting more about running and goals, not always reasons, but what is currently taking place in the running world around me.

Reason for Running #10 --- For Future Runners

First I would like to apologize for the length of time between now and my last post. Quite a bit has happened in the last few months. One of the highlights of things that has occurred is my reason for running #10. Future runners.

I want to be able to pass on my love for running, not just to other adults, but also to my children. I am happy to say that I have a baby girl on the way (Rebecca Grace) and I am really hoping that she will love to run with her Daddy and Mommy. Running as a family and passing on the passion for running onto our children is an amazing way to spend time outdoors as a family and to encourage a healthy lifestyle. Many people have a habit of taking their children to McDonalds because of the playground and relaxation time that it allows for the parents. I am sure I will take my daughter there as well from time to time, but the problem with going to McDonalds is that it becomes so easy to eat all that unhealthy food and then go home without any physical exercise. This is worse for the parents than it is the children, because at least the children are getting exercise on the playground.

Encouraging our children to have a passion for running will help with the obesity problem that we are constantly hearing about in our college and high school health classes and also keep the parents and children close. Along with family movie nights, game nights, etc., why not include a family trail day or fitness day. I hope everyone will encourage their children to run. Family running clubs may even become popular.

Run On! Encourage the future...