Why I'm Not a Runner But I Sign Up for 5k's

Anyone that knows me well knows that I DO NOT RUN. The cute fitness shirts that have some version of "If you see me running, that means something is chasing me" is very accurate in my case. I always hated when we were forced to run in P.E. classes at school and then of all things, running was a requirement for a summer job as a beach lifeguard. I struggled, but made it through those trainings. I even attempted to run with my husband for about a week. I finally told him that I loved him and would rather have a happy marriage than be ticked off at him as he runs BACKWARDS in front of me asking if I'm coming!

Yet even with these fun experiences with running, I have voluntarily entered two different 5k/Fun Run races in the past year. The first was to support The Pilot Club in my county and help raise awareness for brain disorders since my grandfather had dementia when he passed. The second was this past weekend to support the Ken Seiber Scholarship Fund in memory of a wonderful man that was the youth minister at my church and so involved in serving everyone in our community and spreading the love of Jesus Christ.

The funny part about going to these events is that the people I know, but am not really close with, expect me to run because I workout and am "in shape." I quickly let them know that I'll be walking the event and they'll definitely get to finish before me. :) So not only do I get to support a good cause, I also get to help others feel good because they can run and I can't. While I may never be a runner, I do enjoy the event atmosphere. It doesn't matter if you are as fast as the hare or as slow as the turtle. It matters that you are out there, supporting a good cause and doing something healthy for yourself. If you struggle to workout/walk, etc, then grab a friend or lots of friends and it will instantly be easier.