3 Immediate Changes I Noticed After I Started Running

For the first time I defined myself as a runner to a new person I was meeting. Ironically, we were playing pickleball and she was talking about a back injury she was dealing with and I said, “oh man, yeah I’m a runner and just got through a muscle strain back in November/December. . .”. It was the first time I’ve ever defined myself as a runner! It felt good! I was proud of myself!

If your curious about why I started running, I shared a bit about it on this post.

As it’s the beginning of the year, I know some of you may be kicking off new fitness routines. I wanted to share the 3 pretty darn immediate things I noticed when I started running to, perhaps, encourage you if this is also your path!

One. I noticed my mind felt more balanced/peaceful. I didn’t really expect this, to be honest, because I didn’t realize how chaotic it felt prior to running. And don’t get me wrong, it’s not like I was in constant chaos, but I genuinely feel like my brain and mind has leveled out a bit more now that I’ve added regular challenging cardio into my routine.

Two. I naturally started eating better. While I was famished from burning calories, I found myself wanted to refuel with healthier choices that would ultimately set me up for success for my next run. I was always looking ahead to the next run, in eager anticipation, so all of my decisions the day before could either serve me or ambush me.

Three. My self-confidence was boosted. Without a doubt, some physical body changes impacted me feeling better about myself, but beyond that I was so dang proud of how many miles I was running during the week. Justin was my greatest supporter and it was so encouraging to see my swift progress when I started to run last July. I love being outdoors, listening to music, and either socializing with friends on runs or leaning into a little alone time–so it was checking a lot of boxes that went a long way in making me feel happy and confident.

Whatever your sport or activity may be, I hope you find something that makes you feel great, serves your body and your mind, and is something you genuinely look forward to doing!