Friday!!! Friday?! FRIDAY!!! Wow, it has almost been a week since my half marathon and I’m still riding on the runner’s high wave!! Luckily, I know how to surf (well, kind of), so I’m planning on riding this wave for the entire week!! Wahoo, who is with me?! Surf much anyone?! I know you guys do (you know, surf on the runners wave) because you’re all phenomenal runners!
BUT back to the regularly scheduled program!!
Before I ran races, I was a spectator!! When I first met my husband, about ten years ago, we were both extremely active:
He went to my swim meets and I went to his running races. Although I ran every now and then, I never expected to run a race, like ever because I was too happy with how my swimming was going. Isn’t it strange how everything can flip flop and change? Well, when I think back to running (when I ran for pleasure and not for the pain…just kidding), it’s strange to think how far I’ve come. I mean, I’ve recently finished a half marathon and hello, LOVED IT and hello again, will run many more (I’m sure)! I never thought (in a million, billion years) that I’d say love and half marathon in the same sentence and actually mean it, but…I just did! HORRAY!!!
The fact of the matter is that I’m a changed athlete:
I’ve learned that one sport is not enough for me (because I’m greedy! No really, I’m not, just kidding!) and that I can positively still be a great swimmer while being a great runner, too!!! Lesson learned!
WHAT LESSONS HAVE YOU LEARNED ABOUT YOURSELF?!
Soooo, what (or who) first inspired me to begin racing (in running events)?
Hmm (there’s the hmm again), I’d have to say…
Just kidding, I know for a fact that every single runner that I’ve ever physically seen cross the finish line (at a race) has in some way, shape, or form convinced me (unknowingly) to start racing!! Remember, I’ve been to lots and lots of races because of my (then) boyfriend/ (now) husband!
I can’t explain it (to the depth I’d like to explain it), but let me just say this, that swimming is a completely different sport (in and of itself) than running. Duh, right?! Seriously though, for the most part, on a day-to-day basis, when I train, I swim longer than I run. My swim workouts range from 1.5 to 2 hours a workout. BUT here is the difference…
At my swim meets, I usually swim 100 fly, 100 back, and sometimes even (GASP) 200 fly that lasts a total of about (ANOTHER GASP) two minutes!!! Haha, you’ve got to be kidding me, TWO MINUTES???!!! At the two minute mark, during a running race, I’ve barely crossed the start line, right? I mean, it’s true!
But hold the phone for a second, I’m not saying that swimming is not hard, fatiguing, and downright brutal because IT IS!! Swim meets are crazy competitive and the amount of energy you put into one (four lap) swim race is astounding. The nerves, the adrenaline, the jumping up and down before a race is all a whirlwind on its own, but it’s not an hour and a half grueling run either!!! THAT is my point!!!
Having watched my husband and thousands of other runners run to their limit of exhaustion at races was a huge eye opener for me!! I couldn’t believe their perseverance and their craving/desire/need to finish strong!! It was mind blowing!!
It was astounding to watch so many runners finish with smiles, tears, laughter, pain, and even the hope of one day PRing beyond their wildest dreams!!
I’ve experienced some really beautiful moments with my husband, too, having seen him finish many, many marathons with the hugest smile on his face! I can’t even explain how proud of him I am for all that he has accomplished both athletically and in life!!! We even call ourselves Team MK (Marc/Kristin) because we know that no matter what we will always be each other’s biggest fan!!
Okay, so I’m beginning to tear up…on that note, tell me…
WHY DID YOU FIRST START RUNNING?!
Team MK
Xoxo,
Kristin
Stamped with a Heart 
Heidi
I love this! As a triathlete who is not a natural swimmer, I understand what you’re saying!! It’s the same but so different.
Kristin
Thank you SO much!!!
Yes, it really is different especially when it comes to swim meets!!! The duration of a swim meet is long but the swims are short in comparison, but yes, the effort is definitely the same. Thanks so much for the comment!! I compete in aquathlons, which are run-swim-runs, so I admire you for adding a third element (biking) into the equation! That’s a lot!! Great job!!
TartanJogger
What a brilliantly positive post! thanks for sharing!
Kristin
Thanks a bunch!!! 🙂 Have a great day!!!
seesharonrun
Ah, I loved this! Although the furthest distance I’ve ever run is 10K, I can completely relate to the awesome runner’s high. I definitely want to run a half-marathon at some point in my life…you are inspiring me to think about doing that sooner than later!
Kristin
Oh, you really should!!! It’s an amazing experience to cross the finish line with so much pride of accomplishment!! I can’t even explain the beautiful feeling!! Go for it!!
Thank you so much, too for your comment and for your positively lovely words!!!
irenejean
I started running after dating a runner too! It was about ten years ago now, but I remember watching him run a marathon, the whole time I thought – I want to be able to do this. Watching all those runners was a big inspiration!
Kristin
Wow, this is amazing- we sound so much alike! That is exactly why I started running!!! That’s so cool!! Good for you, too!!! I’m so happy for you!!! It’s an amazing feeling to finish a race, isn’t it?!
Thank you so much for your great comment!!! You rock!!
Run with Troy
I first started running back in 2006 when the Air Force replaced the bike test (active duty)/3 mile walk (Reserve) with the 1.5 mile run. However, the only time I would run was during the test and maybe do a mile here and there to prepare prior. Since I haven’t prepared, I ended up failing the test 5 times. I could have been discharged but my leadership had confidence in me that I can improve. Since January 2013, I was have passed my PT test only because somebody was pacing me. In August, I had a major life changing event and that’s when I really made running a part of my daily life. Also, I figured that if I make running a part of my daily routine then then I could pass the PT test with confidence (Before I would be so nervous because I didn’t prepare). 660 miles later, I can’t believe at what I have achieved. My 5K times has dramatically improved. I enjoy running distances longer than 5 miles. Soon, I will be running my first half. Eventually, I will start training for my first full marathon. I remember when I use to run 1.5 miles; now I hate it when I don’t run! I feel full of energy and have less stress. And finally, I have met many wonderful people in the running community that have supported and encouraged me through my journey. That’s why started my own blog is to motivate and inspire others.
Kristin
You’re so amazing and definitely a huge inspiration to so many people out there!! This is seriously a phenomenal story and I loved reading every single word of it!!! You’re way too awesome for words and I’m so happy you love running now and enjoy races and are running so fast!! That’s spectacular!! I know you are going to run a great half marathon and a great marathon!! I can’t wait to hear about it!!
Thanks so much for your support!!!
laurenwayjurlee
I was a swimmer in high school, and I tell you what…those few minutes in the pool for a race were exhausting! And lets not even talk about the 1-2 hour practices. I swear, I permanently smelled like chlorine.
I started running because I was walking (mostly to lose weight) and I had to spend a ridiculous amount of time walking to reach a certain mileage. So I decided that running would help me finish my miles faster 🙂 Simple as that!
Kristin
Hehe, yeah, I swam year around for Coast Guard Blue Dolphins and the practices were ugh, very tiring, but I loved it so much!! I wouldn’t change it for the world!! I still do smell like chlorine!! It’s my permanent perfume!! Hehe! 🙂
I love the reason you started running!!! So cool and so true, mileage does go by a lot quicker when running!!! Love it!!
Lisa Macy Coaching
What a wonderful post! I’m so glad you and your husband share and enjoy training together! It’s always more fun together! 😀
Kristin
Thank you so much and yes, it is fun to train with him!!! We are so close and miss each other when we’re not together!!! Xoxo!!!
Lisa Macy Coaching
That’s how we are and we’re going on 29 years. 🙂 He’s still my best friend! 😀 There are so many couples that aren’t close like y’all and us, so it makes me happy to see another couple that IS like us! Xoxo!!! 😀
Kristin
Awe, wow, that’s so fantastic and how beautiful 29 years!! I absolutely LOVE IT!! My husband and I have been married for almost 4 years (well, 4 in August) so it’s wonderful to spend and share your life with someone so special!!! Congratulations, too on 29 years!!!
Lisa Macy Coaching
Thank you and most definitely! I couldn’t imagine spending my life with anyone else. 😀
I have to ask what day in August? 😀 Our anniversary is August 10th! 🙂 A great month! 😀
sarahdudek80
Great post! I too love sharing this experience with my husband. It makes for some fun memories!
Kristin
Awe, I LOVE IT!!!! Great, lovely memories, right?!! I agree!!!
thedancingrunner
That is one amazing race photo of you I have to say! Have you ever thought about triathlons? With your swimming ability I bet you’d be really good! I actually started running as a hobby after I got laid off of my job working in television news. One of my coworkers was a runner and I was always fascinated with it and wanted to try it…then I joined a running group and it just got me hooked!! I’ve met so many amazing friends through running and training for marathons. It really is a great community to be involved in!
Kristin
Yes, the running community is so great and thanks for the compliment on my picture!! I really appreciate it!!
I think a lot about triathlons but I’m sad to say that I’m not a huge fan of cycling outside!! I LOVE SPIN CLASSES but I really do not like trying to manage myself on a bike outside around cars. Haha, it’s so sad but I’ve known a lot of people that have gotten in some terrible biking accidents and to be honest, it scares me to death because I can be somewhat clumsy anyways. Maybe one day I will get over my fear! My husband is a great cyclist so I might pick it up, too one day!
I just love your story on why you started running!! You’re very inspirational and I know so many runners are very inspired by you and your perseverance!!!
riversgain
I started running to prove to myself that I could do it! I started small with a 5k, then a 10k, then a half! I wanted to set a goal and show myself that it could be done! WELL, I beat that goal and then another, and another….and now I am moving on to a triathlon! The goals just keep me going! I am like you and I just am natural in the water! Sadly not so natural at running, but hey I do it and love it now! As for riding a bike outside, I am with you. I just bought my bike and I am a nervous wreck out there! My husband got hit this summer and I got a phone call from the group he was riding with when I was at home with our two boys! I flipped out and drove to the town where he was riding his 40 mile loop. The guy said he saw him, but he just didn’t want to move over. So Russell was going about what 15-20 mph and then the car was going 65 when it him from behind. He was clipped in and couldn’t clip out because it all happened so fast. Thankfully he is okay but now that is all I can think about! So I stick to my dead end type streets and the 2 mile road beside our airport that nobody really travels. I just say a little prayer every time I head out and face one of my biggest fears!
Kristin
Gosh, I’m sorry to hear about your husband and yes, there are SO many drivers that do not want to share the road with cyclists and it’s not right!! My husband has had some accidents but luckily has never broken anything and I’m so thankful for that. Every time he is out cycling, I’m worried I’ll get that dreaded call that something has happened to him. Again, I’m sorry to hear what happened to your husband! That’s horrible!
I’m glad you are pursuing your next journey of doing a triathlon!! You have inspired me to at least think about trying to cycle! It’s going to take some time though because most roads around where I live are so busy. I just need to get over that fear!
I love your story about running!!! Your passion for life and adventure is amazing!!
riversgain
awe thanks! yes it is terrifying! BUT I always tell myself would I want to die being of scared of everything???? I am still scared but it makes me get out and do it more, ha! I do take more precaution for things like cycling though! NO busy streets, lights, helmets, etc…I do have to pack up my bike to get to that road that is the safest which sucks to do every time but it is the only place I feel super comfortable riding. Maybe start with a park or some type of trail if you can find one to get comfortable and then move on to some streets. There is also this thing you can buy, you attach your bike to it and it makes it a stationary bike! I have heard great things about it because the riders get use to the feel of their bike but they weren’t at risk for getting hit and so forth! My husband is looking at purchasing one for us – think they are around $200 maybe. Maybe get one of those and then only take your bike out when it gets close to a race, just a few times to get the feel of it on the actual pavement. Anyways just some ideas to help you get over the fear, it’s hard I know!
Good luck!!!
runsaltrun
I LOVE Team MK. You guys are such an amazing couple and I love how much you compliment and support each other. 🙂 I am a TERRIBLE swimmer and I think it’s awesome that you’ve had so much success with it!
I started running because I was bored. I had no idea how much I was going to fall in love with it, but then it happened and I can’t imagine my life without it now! Running and yoga are two of my biggest passions!
I hope you have the most wonderful weekend. ❤
Kristin
Thank you so much for the compliments and I absolutely LOVE running and yoga, too!!! They compliment each other so well and are both truly amazing!!
You’re an amazing runner and I know what you mean, that you couldn’t imagine your life without running!! I feel the same exact way!!
Have the best weekend!!! 🙂
piratebobcat
So nice! I have always run, but it wasn’t until 6 years ago that I got into these distance. My sis talked me into running the Disney Marathon with her. A first for both of us. I hadn’t raced anything past a 5k at that point. It hurt a lot, but I finished. I have learned so much since then and become a much better runner!
Kristin
Wow, what a great story!!! I’ve heard that Disney Marathon is so much fun!!! I love it!!! That’s awesome that you two ran together! So sweet! Great story and I’m glad you’ve learned a lot about yourself and about running over the past 6 years!!
New Girl Running
I started running to kickstart a healthier life-style & I find when I’m running I have a clearer, happier mind. As I’m progressing and my fitness is improving it’s becoming addictive & I really look forward to my runs (not always though, sometimes I look forward to AFTER my runs 🙂 )
Kristin
Hehe, the after part of runs can be really sweet, too because you did it, it’s done, and you can enjoy the feeling of accomplishment!!
I’m so happy you’re living a healthy lifestyle!! That’s something to be applauded!!! 🙂
fitnesslife24
Your post are always great. They make me smile! Btw, I’ve always liked running, but when I was finally able to buy a good pair of running shoes, I pretty much just took off at my own pace 🙂
Kristin
The perfect running shoes are the best and they make the runs even better!!!
Thank you so much for the comment, too and for the compliment!! 🙂
Mark Myers
Great post. I first started to get my fat butt…well, less fat. I don’t know when a half marathon entered my mind, but the thrill of losing 50 lbs and finishing that race was amazing. So then I thought, my be a full? I’ve run seven now and kept the weight off for seven years. Running is good!
Kristin
WOW!!!! That’s so awesome!!! You deserve a huge round of applause!!! What an inspiration you are!!! I’m so happy you’ve found your niche and love running marathons!! That’s spectacular!!
leerunsdistances
First off, let me start by saying that I’m loving the pigtails Kristin! Too cute lol 😉 And the lessons I’ve learned from running hmmm … where do I begin. Running has made me even more patient because the goals you strive to achieve in running or racing can’t be rushed it takes work and persistence. Only the truly patient one’s stick with it. I’ve also learned that I can work through rough patches that come in life, seeing things through until you see that light at the end of the tunnel. The marathon distance taught me that one. I, much like you am also drawn to the different emotions you can see at just one finish line and the different cultures and walks of life you see. Annnnd I’ll give you the early in life short version of “why did I first start running?” okie dokie … the longer two parts to the story version you’ll have to wait for until I can add an “about me” page /tab to my blog. I first started running when I was a little kid because well … I didn’t get a bike until I was in 4th almost 5th grade hahaha lol so running was the only option for me if I wanted to get somewhere fast. And running has pretty much been in my life in some way, shape, or form since then. I guess you could say my mother’s procrastination benefited me in the “long run” hahaha did I just make a funny I kill myself sometimes.
Kristin
You story is definitely a cool one and wow, you’ve been running since you were a little kid!! That’s amazing!! I’m sure you’ve learned so much about yourself and about running over the years!
Running does teach some really valuable life lessons and I love the ones you named! I do agree that I’ve learned patience as well and seeing the different stages of emotions during a race as well as at the end of a race is so interesting and intriguing.
Thank you so much for the compliment about my pigtails!! Hehe, I love em!!! Thank you so much for your great and extremely informative comment!! I always learn a lot from you!!!
leerunsdistances
Anytime Kristin!! And with races to be honest I probably get more pumped when I see a 60 or 70 year old cross the line than myself. That’s truly epic stuff 🙂
Kristin
Totally!!!! 🙂 I agree very much!!!
I used to drive a minivan.
I also swam 100 and 200 fly, and 100 back! (In another lifetime I was a Division I swimmer).
I began running for the first time in my life at the age of 37 as a mom of 3 kids after my husband left me. I was completely blindsided, and felt so worthless and unloveable (long story as to why, or rather *for who*, he left the marriage). I always thought I couldn’t run. But I was in a place where I was tired of someone else telling me who I was, and what my value was.
I’m running my first half marathon in two weeks. It’s been one of the greatest aspects of my road to healing.
Kristin
Oh wow, you’re such a strong person and I’m so happy to hear that you are moving forward and using running as a way to heal and to see yourself for the fabulous person that you are!!
I’m sorry to hear about what happened but am happy to hear you’ve found your inner strength and passion for life! You rock!!
I can’t wait to hear about your half marathon and I know you’ll finish the rest of your training runs strong!!
That’s awesome about you being a Division 1 swimmer!! So cool!! I swam year around for many, many years but decided I needed time off in college so then came back to swimming after I graduated UVA.
Thanks so much for your comment and I can’t wait to read more and more of your posts!!! You’re such a beautiful person!!
weight2lose2013
I’m not a runner, but I’m always impressed by the dedication that I’ve witnessed by runners. They run in snow, heat, rain – you name it! I love their work ethic.
Kristin
Yep, you’re right about that!!! Runners are way dedicated and I’m always impressed when I see people run in the worst weather conditions!! Dedication for sure!!
Kathryn @ Dancing to Running
I love this, Kristin! I too share my running experiences with my husband and its one of the many things that I love being able to do with him.
Kristin
YES, me too and I love that you run and experience beautiful moments with your husband!! That’s so wonderful!!! Xoxo!!!
Sara Cooper
This post makes me enormously happy. You’ve captured what’s so hard for a non-runner to understand…how you can push and be in pain and hating life one minute and laughing while crying tears of happiness the next. There’s nothing like it. It’s what makes us get up and do it all again the next day and the day after that.
Great writing!
Kristin
Thanks so much and I absolutely love your comment!! You captured it exactly- the range of emotions a runner goes through can be exhausting, but in the end, you can’t wait to do it all over again!! And you’re right, there is nothing like it!! 🙂
frozencokefridays
I completely agree with this!
girlofthehour
I started running because I always told myself I couldn’t. I wanted to prove to myself that I could 🙂
Kristin
That’s so awesome and you’re doing it!!! 🙂 🙂 GO YOU!!!
frozencokefridays
I started to lose the baby weight I packed on with my 2nd daughter – still love it!
I was a swimmer in high school, definitely a workout all on its own! 🙂
Kristin
Oh yeah, swimming is a great workout and I’m so glad you love running so much!!! 🙂
2 Cups 'N Run
When we do something we enjoy, it always seems like we’ll be doing that forever, and then one day things just change. And that’s fine too. I’ve been through so many fitness related faces, run less, run more, walk, take fitness classes, do it on my own, weightlifting, swimming… I love that we are not static, change is welcome.
I started running many years ago, as another way to stay in shape, however it became so much more than than in the last year. I think the trend of marathon running made me want to try that, and then I was hooked. And I haven’t even done the marathon yet.
Kristin
Oh, so excited for you to do a marathon!!! You’re so awesome and will do great!!
You’re right, too, change is always welcome and we never know exactly where life will lead us…to new and exciting adventures and all!
thecrazyrunnergirl
Great post! I first started to get into shape and manage stress (I used to get tight chest/breathing difficulties from anxiety). I started running outside when a colleague who was training for the London Marathon inspired me…never looked back 🙂
Kristin
Great!!! Never look back- that’s inspiring and so awesome!!! Seriously, good for you!!
Managing stress is always a good thing and running is a great outlet for any stress and tension that builds up!!! I love it!!
Lauren @ ihadabiglunch
I love this! I started running when I went off to college and had no idea how to work out without playing basketball (my life in high school). I did swim team when I was younger for a few years and I’ll never forget how stressful it was…you’re so right about that adrenaline rush. It was way too much pressure for me haha
Kristin
Haha, you’re right, swimming is so much pressure sometimes!!! I still compete in some swim meets and always feel way more nervous then at running events.
Oh, I love basketball!! That’s a sport I wish I would have played growing up. My dad was a basketball player so we played some but I was never competitive with it.
Yeah, running is a great stress reliever at college!!!
leescottdavis
Great post and story. Thanks for sharing. As a runner and cyclist I tried swimming last year. In Australia, you’re almost expected to be a great swimmer. But, I hated hit and it demotivated me, I stopped all training for nearly 9 months. Only just got back into my running and have my mojo again.
Kristin
Oh my gosh, I know exactly what you mean!! Swimming is very mental and to be honest, I stopped swimming for many, many months not too long ago because of my frustrations with the training. Ugh, I understand! Even the best swimmers go through frustrations with swimming, but I’m so glad you’re back into running and hopefully cycling and having the best time!!! My husband is also a runner and cyclist and tried swimming for a bit, but was also very demotivated so stopped!
Amy
My about me on my blog says it but I was facing a post long term unemployment and back injury weight gain and how to lose it. I’d always been thin I had no idea how to lose weight. I’d tried all my usual not intense enough workout routines and they didn’t work and didn’t keep me motivated. So New Year’s Day 2012 I called a few friends and dated them to run the Disneyland half marathon with me 9 months to the day later. 1 showed up. We run together all the time. I just completed half marathon #20. And I lost all the weight plus some. And found a sport that I love, crave, and provides the balance in my life that I need. Pardon the typos am typing this on my phone.
Kristin
Awe, that’s great!! That’s such a beautiful story!! I love it!! It’s nice having someone to run with you, too!! I love running with my husband! He keeps me going strong!
Half marathon #20!! That’s so awesome!!
Running is a fabulous sport- it provides so many challenges, yet happy moments, too!! The thrill of crossing the finish line is such an awesome feeling all on its own!
It’s such a different feeling than swimming; although, the run-swim-runs I do feel equally conquering at the end.
I can’t wait to hear your race recaps!!! 🙂