Run like a horse

I've decided to tackle something that's been bugging me for years. I want to be a runner.

Back in public school, I ran track and field. I have a box of red ribbons to show that I was a decent sprinter. My tiny stick legs were speedy and I loved being one of the fastest girls in class.

Then it all changed one fateful afternoon. I was running the 400 metre race at the local track and field meet. As I crossed the finish line, I heard one of the coolest boys in class say "she runs like a horse." In my pre-pubescent self-conscious mind that meant "she looks ugly when she runs." I'm ashamed to admit that I stopped running. I would only run during organized sports and even then I worried about how I looked.

Years passed and I spent a good deal of time on the elliptical and my bike. Once or twice I even ventured out to try running, but never made it past 5 minutes. Jealousy raged whenever I saw someone out for a jog. I wanted to do that.

A few months ago, I’d had enough wishing so I signed up for The Running Room's Learn to Run program. I'm not a runner yet, but I'm getting there. I have my first 5K race on July 24.

I’m horrified that one comment and my own insecurity kept me from running. Although at the time I thought the cool boy was insulting me, I think it was actually a compliment. I mean, have you watched a horse run? It’s damn impressive. They’re fast and graceful. I hope I still run like a horse.

SOTS wonders... what aren't you doing that you could be? What's holding you back?
Bella