Why Run? You Don't Need to Lose Weight! 

"Running is peace and quiet and freedom."
- Terry Anderson

I never intended on becoming a runner, but today running is part of who I am.

"Why are you running? You don't need to lose any weight!"

I've heard that statement more times than I care. Without exception, the individuals who say things like that have never run, and most do not participate in any fitness program. Very few nonrunners understand or appreciate the high we runners receive from pounding the miles out day after day. The joy of running keeps us going even on days when the mercury dips well below freezing, or when the winds and rains beat down upon the earth. A true runner braves the elements, the subfreezing temperatures, and the heat and humidity, because he finds a certain joy in doing what so few would attempt.

I never intended on becoming a runner. I believed in physical activity, but my activity consisted of walking, jump roping, aerobics, and a few stretching exercises. I saw no need to run. Gradually my walking program evolved into a short jogging session, and after my first race, I became a runner. Today, running is part of who I am. Although I've run during all times of the day and even in the darkness a couple times, I relish my early morning runs most.

Watching the sun rise and the earth awake to a new day is refreshing. Something about that early morning run helps my day get started right. Usually, I complete several miles before my three young sons get up. (I love being a wife and mother, but I eagerly look forward to my early morning solitude.)

Running is a time of reflection for me--a time of solitude when I can commune with God. My mind is free to think, and most of my best writing ideas come to me while I'm running.

Since becoming a runner, I have learned to appreciate little things--the beauty of nature that most miss in the busyness of the day. Whenever I drive now, I find myself either measuring mileage or contemplating on whether these would be good roads on which to run. Not every morning is an easy or enjoyable run, but I cannot imagine what my life would be like if I had to give up my running. Over time and with each race, running has become more of who I am. Running is part of me--a part of me I love!

Copyright 2001 by Rachel Keller.

Note from the author: Although I love running and racing and do quite well in both, I realize that running is not for everyone. I consider myself a runner, yet I run no more than four days a week to prevent injuries and over training. Also, I enjoy so many other activities, such as aerobics and strength training. I find that participating in a variety of activities helps prevent boredom, as well.