I Did It!

On August 26, 2012, I started my journey to better health and a fitter lifestyle.  I slowly started by working out to Tae Bo videos (sometimes twice per day).  Co-workers got me committed by starting a Biggest Loser contest.  I lost nearly 30 pounds by the end of 2012. 

As 2013, progressed, I continued to lose more weight.  I eventually found I was bored with Tae Bo and felt it was time to try the gym.  I began at the gym in March 2013 and really did not have any major goals.  I wanted to lose more weight and tone my body, but that was it.

My good friend Ron proposed we run a 5K later that year, but I refused.  I HATED running, so there was no way I was going to do that.  Eventually, I changed my mind and agreed to run a 5K in 2014.  I was set to start training in January, but I spent most of the month making excuses.  My friend Guy challenged me to get going and I slowly began. 

Ron and I tried to set a date to run, but the winter was LONG and our schedules were extremely busy.  Eventually, the goal of completing a race went on the backburner, but I did run throughout the Spring.  I ran outside a few times and started to get hooked. 

Starting the T-25 workout DVDs made it difficult to continue running outside (the workout was hard on the legs), so I put running on the backburner for the summer.  My good friend Jenna asked me to run her race (she was the co-chair of the Great Futures 5K) and I agreed.  I knew that Ron was going to be unable to train and run with me, so I prepared to do it alone. 

My first day training was Labor Day and it was extremely hot and humid.  I made it around Delaware Park only once before choking on the thick air.  I was upset with myself and vowed to do more running.  I started doing more treadmill running and a few more sessions outside.  I was told that I would be fine, but I was so nervous.

Prior to the big day, my good friend Jenn, a veteran runner, stated she would run with me.  I was both relieved and nervous.  I figured she would outrun me, but also that she would inspire.  The big day arrived and it was rainstorm.  I had not slept well the night before because I was so nervous and excited. 

We arrived fairly early and it was cold, but the rain eventually stopped.  The air horn signaled the beginning of the race and off we went.  Jenn’s hat blew off almost immediately and I faced the decision of waiting for her or going.  I chose to keep going.  I focused on a particular runner and found myself catching up to her and her group.  I knew I could pass them, so I did. 

The route was both fun and challenging.  There were quite a few hills and bridges, but I was never bored.  The wind was rough, which did cause me to lose my breath a few times.  Thanks to my rocking running playlist and my determination to get it done, I was focused on finishing.  As I climbed my last hill, I knew the finish line was in my grasp.  Good friends Ellary and Jenna were waiting and cheering me on as I completed the race.

I came in 1^st in my age group (to be fair, there were only three other people running in that group) and I was 12^th overall.  Not bad for an “old” guy running his first race.  Check out my excitement below! 

I hope my story inspires anyone that has a fitness goal.  I started out 73 pounds heavier and never thought I wanted to do a race or that I could do it.  I made it happen, due  to the support of some amazing friends, family and my sheer will.