I think I got my swagger back!

For the past few weeks you’ve read about my whining concern of my lack of motivation with running. I was afraid that I lost my love for running. It wasn’t that I didn’t want to run…I did. But I would lose the motivation to lace up my shoes, not to mention getting my butt out that door.

I began analyzing things. Okay, so I was trying to justify why I couldn’t get into a groove anymore.

• I was tired.
• I was too busy with juggling my furkids and the foster pup.
• I overslept.
• It’s too dark.

Let’s face it people…I was avoiding my runs. I started losing interest in my running route, especially since I run alone. I don’t have a scenic route. There are trees, stores, gas stations, and traffic. Lots of it, depending on the time.

I talked to several people about it, both online and in person. I got a few different suggestions, advice, and positive reinforcements. {That’s what I love about the #FitFluential and #RunChat communities.}

One of those suggestions was to join a local running club. Well, this morning I decided to look into it with the local Fleet Feet store where I buy my running shoes. They have training programs from running one mile to running a marathon. I put that on my list to get more info about. I’m thinking I need that structure & knowledge for that half marathon that I have on my long term goals list, which I want to happen next year.

I also found something they call a Pub Run. Sounds pretty cool, right? I called and ended up speaking with Ed at the store for about 20 minutes. He gave me loads of good info as well as personally invitedme to join in on the Pub Run. Basically a group of people gather at a local bar every week, run about 3 miles, then enjoy a drink or two together afterwards.

{Source}


It’s not as intimidating as I thought it would be. For one, PJ decided to come with me! {Wait, what?!?} Yeah, you heard me! I was totally excited but kept my cool. I want him to come around on his own. {I don’t think the prospect of having a beer at the end was a motivator, was it??}

For two, there were people there I knew! Score! No awkward moments trying to fit in with strangers.

And for three, I met a new girl who was my running partner for the night. Awesome! I never had a running partner cause my pace is different than those I normally run with. We kept pace with each other the whole time. Freakin motivating is what it was!

PJ even ran a little bit and I’m impressed. I was worried about him not enjoying it. I didn’t expect him to return the same time I did, but I didn’t expect him to show up 30-40 minutes later! I knew he stopped running but had hoped he’d keep pace with someone else or even the walkers. And he did for a while, he said. Then sometime he realized they had turn off somewhere and he ended up doing the lake loop twice. So he basically added an extra half mile onto the route….while walking.

Bless his heart. I got worried and finally reached him on his phone. He showed up and was still able to get one beer in before people started disappearing. His plan for next time is to stick the route {only loop once!} and return on time so that he can enjoy more than just one beer with the group! Haha! God love him, I can’t believe he had fun and wants to do it again!

Dare I say it? I think this was just what I needed to get back in the game! I’m so glad I went. I’m even planning on going back next Monday! {Maybe next week I’ll remember to take pictures!}

Are you part of a local running club?

Do you do routine group runs with friends?

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