Running for fitness & fun

I started running late in life - as late as October last year (2007). So when women say they're too old to start running, I strongly believe that age can never be a barrier if they really want to do it. Before October 2007, I couldn't run even 1 km without puffing and panting and I had serious doubts about my limbs being able to take my weight. I started slowly and built up my stamina and tried to run a longer distance every time. Slowly, I was able to build my endurance and last longer.

Even now, I have problems completing my first few kms - it's always tough and there are times when I wonder what I'm doing. But after completing that 10, 15 or 20 kms - I feel a sort of exhilaration that only someone who has experienced the blood, sweat and tears of the miles gone by will know! And it's worth every minute of the torture! 

I admire those who have fit sculpted bodies, that look like they were created to run! I don't look remotely like a runner and that is something that is always work in progress for me. I have never been thin in my life (and thankfully, I have never been inclined to be that way) but I would like to be fitter. My main goal is to remain healthy through sports like running, which don't require much gear (except your running shoes) or any specialised area (the open road or the park next door will do!). My mantra is to just eat healthy, exercise and hope nature will take care of the rest!

So if you're planning to start and have never done it before, I'd like to say: 'just get out there and start running'. You never know what you're capable of - don't limit yourself by saying you can't do it. Push your body and your body will respond - sometimes you land up surprising yourself!

I ran my first long run - 26 kms ultra marathon - my first ever event last year (2007). It took me 4 long arduous hours to complete it but only I knew how good I felt at the end of it. Like a winner! No matter that it took me a few hours more than someone who had come first.

Running is like that - you don't need to be first at the finishing line. It's the journey, it's the run, it's the sheer thrill to giving in and pushing yourself. There are times you'll feel like giving up, but when you've stuck to your goal and been able to overcome your pain and tiredness, you're doubly glad you stuck on. It's addictive, it's great fun and to add to it - it's much faster than walking. Like I often say: "the scenery changes much faster when you run!"

It would be great to see more women running and it's been great fun being part of the runner girls club. It's also a great way to meet lots of like minded women!

I don't have any competitive intent in mind when I run. I mainly run for the exercise and to keep fit. And because I enjoy it. And here's my running quote from Dean Karnazes for inspiration: "Run when you can, walk if you have to, crawl if you must; just never give up."

You can read more about running and my other hobbies - photography and travel on: http://www.anitabora.com/blog and http://www.flickr.com/photos/anita/