This is your wake-up call to start running

No, it’s not actually torture

For those of you who think you are not the working out type, I can promise you that if you want to you can be. I was that person only two years ago. In that short time, I have transformed from a person who loathed exercising to a person who loves it.

After a long day of work, class and student organizations I still manage to lace up my shoes and run. When I first started working out, I really had to force myself to go even just three times per week. I dragged myself reluctantly because I felt like I had to. I honestly did not even plan to increase the frequency of my workout routine, but after a while, I felt my body craving it. Now, I have a consistent routine of working out at least five days per week. Sure, there are days where I’m tired or I have a lot of other things I could be doing, but I have never regretted a single workout.

My primary form of exercise is running. If the thought of that makes you cringe, I was there once too. At first, I had to alternate running and walking, but after a couple of months, I was able to run full distances. This is one of the most rewarding feelings. There is something so satisfying about crossing the finish line you set for yourself. Especially those days where things don’t really seem to be going your way, no one can take that away from you.

That’s honestly probably why I started running. It was something that I could control. In daily life, there is only so much you can control. You can study hours for a test and still not succeed. As an actress, there were countless auditions that I would go into and give it my all, but at the end of the day, there was nothing I could really do. With an exercise routine, the only person that is stopping you, is you. Things may try to deter you, busy schedules, assignments or friends, but there’s always a way to shift your schedule.

Exercise makes me feel powerful like I am an unstoppable force. Then there are also the endless health benefits resulting from exercise. From the release of endorphins making me feel more relaxed and satisfied, to helping me become more in sync with my body. Running has given me mental and physical strength beyond what I ever could have imagined. These things are worth fighting to maintain because they are helping me live a healthy, happier life. If you have an interest in trying out running, give it a fair chance before giving up! Set small goals for yourself and you will begin to feel amazing results. Plus, there are so many beautiful sights to see during outdoor runs!

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University of Wisconsin