go run that 5k
and why you should always keep pushing yourself
Last weekend, I ran my first 5k race—one that I had been training for since September.
I started my running journey back in July because I wanted to lose weight, but it quickly turned into something more than that. I started to feel this urge to push myself to do something I never thought I could—run a marathon. Funny, considering how much I hate running and how truly bad I am at it.
To give you some background: I am not a runner. . . at all. I have always hated running (I still do most days). When I was 6, I started playing soccer, but I eventually told my parents I didn’t want to continue because there was too much running. So it’s safe to say that running has never come naturally to me.
In fact, when I first started running, I could barely run a mile without feeling like I was dying. I should also mention that I have pretty bad knees, so running a marathon probably isn’t in the cards for me—at least not anytime soon. As I started to realize just how difficult running was for me, that marathon dream slowly faded. But instead of giving up completely, I set a new goal: a 5k.
So I started training.
As race day got closer, I started to feel very discouraged. A couple of weeks before the race, my knees were hurting so badly that I could barely make it to three miles without wanting to burst into tears. I genuinely didn’t think I’d be able to run the race, and if I did, I didn’t think I’d hit a pace I would be proud of.
However, I kept showing up, but I wasn’t expecting much.
Fast forward to race day. As I stood at the starting line, I kept telling myself two things: just enjoy it and be grateful that you have a body that can move.
And somehow… the race was fun.
Even though I am usually miserable while running, something about that race felt different. And when I crossed the finish line, I realized I had cut two minutes off my previous time—setting a new PR.
I was so happy. So grateful. So proud.
Even when I had stopped believing in myself, I still found something better waiting for me at the end.
I’m not telling you this story to tell you to go run a 5k.
I’m telling you to set goals, no matter how big or small, or even if you feel discouraged. I’m telling you that it’s okay to dream big and to push yourself, even when it feels uncomfortable or painful, or when no one else believes. Strive for whatever it is that you want. But remember: it’s okay to struggle. It’s okay to doubt yourself.
But don’t give up.
Because there is something waiting for you on the other side of that effort—something that makes it all worth it.
So, go run that 5k because who knows, it might turn into a marathon.
Love,
Katelan
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Woohoo! I used to hate running because I’m about as competitive as an old sofa. But when I learned to race myself, it started getting fun. Highly recommend doing a full marathon… I did the Honolulu one a couple times… the runner’s high is out of this world. Plus the rainbows there were a mega perk. Thanks for sharing this. I think my next goals are to start performing again. And not looking at how other people are doing is a great reminder!