come run with me <33

Hey everyone! You might have seen my quick post about fitting in a run after work, and I wanted to dive a little deeper into what that really looks like, especially for us mid-sized runners juggling a ton of responsibilities. If you're a busy mom, a student, or just someone feeling overwhelmed but wanting to reclaim some time for yourself through running, then come run with me (figuratively, at least!) as I share my personal journey and some things I've learned along the way. First off, acknowledging that I'm a mid-sized runner has been so empowering. It’s not about fitting into a certain mold, but about moving my body and celebrating what it can do. For me, that means prioritizing comfort and listening to my body. One of the biggest game-changers has been investing in good quality, supportive gear. Think about a high-impact sports bra that actually holds everything in place, and running shoes that are designed for your foot type and offer ample cushioning. Chafe-free shorts or leggings are also a must! These small investments make a huge difference in comfort and preventing issues that can derail your motivation. Then there’s the ‘time crunch’ – oh, how well I know it! Being a mom to a 15-month-old, a wife, a full-time employee, and a college student means my schedule is packed. So, how do I make time? It's not always pretty, but consistency is key. Sometimes it’s a quick 20-minute jog right after work before dinner chaos begins. Other times, it's squeezing in a 5K training run on a Saturday morning while my husband handles breakfast. I’ve learned to be flexible and not beat myself up if a planned run doesn't happen. Any movement is better than no movement, and sometimes a brisk walk is exactly what my body needs. For anyone looking to tackle a 5K like I am, remember that it's a journey, not a race (well, it is a race, but you get what I mean!). Start with a walk/run program. Don't feel pressured to run the entire distance from day one. I often incorporate walking intervals, especially on days when I'm feeling tired. Hydration is also super important, especially if you're a busy person who easily forgets to drink enough water throughout the day. I keep a water bottle with me constantly. And don't forget to fuel your body with nutritious food – running on empty when you're already stretched thin is a recipe for burnout. Ultimately, my runs are my 'me time.' They're when I can clear my head, listen to music or a podcast, and just focus on myself, even for a short while. It’s not just about the physical benefits, but the mental clarity and stress relief too. So, if you're out there thinking you can't do it because you're 'too busy' or 'not a runner' – trust me, you can. Just start with one step, one short run, and celebrate every little victory. My hope is that my journey inspires you to find your own way to move and make time for yourself, no matter how packed your life might be. We're in this together!