I had quite the humbling experience on Saturday morning.
After breakfast, I completed some housework but then noticed it was way too gorgeous outside to be in the house for one more second. I changed into some workout gear, laced up some gym shoes, and headed on my way for a walk. I started on my usual 2.5 mile loop that I go on quite regularly with Charlie. After about 1/4 mile of walking, I had the itch to run. It must have been the sun shining, the slight breeze, or my really awesome purple shorts – but whatever the case may have been, I was feeling it.
Until I remembered I hadn’t run in five months.
Don’t get me wrong, I am definitely doing this low intensity workout regimen for a greater cause, and I’m not regretting it in any way shape or form. However, I can’t help but sometimes being disheartened by my lack of fitness these days. Sure, walking is still exercise, but it definitely isn’t my favorite form. I like the heart pounding, out of breath, so sweaty I need like five showers kind of workouts. For someone who could bust out double digit runs just a few months ago, running was quite hard the other day.
But I did it.
It’s not something I’m going to get accustomed to right now because let’s face it – I do not want to shock any part of my system at this moment. I was only able to run probably in 1/4 or 1/2 mile increments, I probably walked more than I ran, but I had a goofy grin on my face for the rest of the morning every time I took a deep breath and my lungs burned. That sole reminder of what I had done earlier that day made me incredibly happy.
So, let’s talk about that humbling part, shall we? I forgot about how stinking hard it is to begin exercising. When I started becoming a regular exerciser my sophomore year of college, it was hard. Really hard. I remember the first time I was able to run 20 minutes straight after months of treadmill running. There’s this euphoric feeling and sense of accomplishment that comes with it.
There’s a part of me that has felt like a failure this first half of 2012 – but I know that’s a lie. I could have easily kept running and gone a different route to get to the end result I’m praying for each and every day. Deep down in my heart though, I knew that wasn’t the right thing for me. I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with alternative routes, and heck, I might have to go down that road eventually. But to not stop running and try things by myself felt wrong to me.
Needless to say, I can’t wait to someday get back into great running shape. But if you’re just starting out right now, stick with it. It’s hard – I can definitely attest to that. However, your hard work will pay off. Don’t compare yourself to others and what they’re doing either. I could have found thousands of reasons to put myself down in the last few months about how others are more physically fit than me right now.
It all comes back to doing what’s best for you and your body. I wasn’t planning on getting all deep or emotional here, but I guess it was bound to happen. Ah, well.
Question: Have you had a humbling experience lately?
{ 79 comments… read them below or add one }
I don’t know if this counts as “humbling” but my computer recently broke and I had no access to the internet for over a week (not even a fancy phone!). It made me realize just how much time I spend on the internet and neglecting other areas of my life. Suddenly I was less stressed, felt less pressure, and found myself wanting to do things I don’t normally do. I’m glad my computer is back but I definitely need to find much more balance. Its a tricky thing to figure out sometimes!
I would say that’s a huge eye opener! I love going away for the weekend where there is no internet service - it’s so nice to unplug!
Great post and one which I’m sure many of us can relate to. As a sport, I find running very humbling- some runs are fabulous whereas others really take everything out of us…and remind us just how difficult running truly is. I got injured in December and since then, my running mileage has been rather low! I’m okay with that because some running is better than none, but at the same I can’t believe that at one point running 10 km seemed like a “walk” in the park!
You’re telling me - I can remember some of my 10 mile runs and feeling like I could keep going for many more miles. Crazy!
I had ankle surgery 2 weeks ago and have been in a full leg cast since… it’s been a rough 2 weeks but I’m so thankful it’s only temporary… I couldn’t imagine having a permanent disability.
on a fun note… I LOVE your blog and I’m not sure why it took me so long to find it!
Heal quickly! Thanks for the kind words too!
Thanks for sharing! I recently cut running out to for a few months and am just now starting to get back into the swing of things. I feel like the time off was refreshing and taught me those things that running couldn’t, like really deeply listening to my body, pushing hard when I can, but relaxing to the fullest when I can as well. For me it really brought back a love for running that I had when I first got into it. I mean I always enjoyed it, but that passion that drives me to be the best I can be is back and better than ever!
I hear you! I can’t wait to get back into it someday!
I had some cyst issues a while ago where I couldn’t run… When I could finally start up again it was SO hard! It’s amazing what our bodies can do…keep taking it slow - its worth it in the end!
I agree - thanks Alyssa!
You are so insipiring! You have done so many healthy things for your body the first half of 2012! I love the quotes.
I think my most humbling experience lately is not finishing my marathon. Although some may label it as ‘quitting’ or ‘giving up’ I knew I was pushing my body to limits and had been for over 6 months…it was humbling to mentally and physically break down on the day of the marathon….lesson learned, listen to your body.
Have a great Tuesday Chelsey and enjoy a walk;-)
Thanks Becky. I think it was definitely inspiring to me that you listened to your body enough to not finish your race. That is awesome!
Awesome post Chelsey! I am so impressed with how open and honest you are about your situation and the struggles that come along with it. I admire you lady!!
Thanks Alyssa!
It has been very humbling getting back into running/exercising after pregnancy, so I feel ya. It is HARD.
I’m sure it’s even harder with two little ones!
Being in “running shape” is definitely different than being “in shape.” It takes so much work and patience! That’s good that you’re listening to your body and taking things slow — I admire you for it!
I agree! There are so many different kinds of “in shape”!
Since I ran my half-marathon at the end of April, it has been super challenging for me to run. Go figure. I run 13.1 miles, and then it’s like my body says “OK, I’m done with running now!” I’m supposed to be meeting a group of people for “Run Club” at Lifetime Fitness today. I’m praying that my body cooperates so I don’t slow everybody down!
ha! That happened to me after my second half!
Proof that you don’t need to be a marathoner to get a runner’s high. That’s what’s so great about it. I can’t wait to get back into it myself.
I’m a relatively new reader and I’m so grateful to have found your blog. I am going through a very similar situation to your own where I have come off of birth control but my period has gone missing. Deep down I was always scared to come off, knowing that my period might not be there without the artificial help of the pill. I had a hunch it was my exercise. I’m not under weight. I don’t have an eating disorder. I just LOVE to workout and workout hard. After 4 months I’ve finally admitted to myself that it’s a problem and I really do have your blog to thank. It’s been hard cutting back. Running, weight lifting and plyo has turned into walks, yoga, and leisurely time on the bike/elliptical (at most). I’m also seeing an acupuncturist later this week. It won’t be cheap, but I hope it’s worth it. You can’t put a price on starting a family!
I’m so glad you’ve come here Heather! If you ever need anything, please email me!
I totally know what you mean about having a smile on your face when you’re doing something physical for the first time in a while! I have done that too
. I used to be a competitive dancer and I’ve tried doing some of the stuff I used to do and that is soooo incredibly humbling! My body just doesn’t work in the same way anymore!
I could have never been a dancer. I have no grace or coordination. I’m a clumsy fool.
Hi Chelsey! This is a great post! I am going through a similar thing to you and was wondering….how do you know when it’s okay to go back to running? I don’t want to shock my body either but do you have any info about how you can gradually get back to more intense workouts? I don’t want to end up right back where I started but am having a tough time finding information about how (or even if I can) to transition back running/other workouts.
I actually have no idea. I’ve heard some people say it’s best to wait three months of having normal cycles to get back into it. Personally, I’m going to take it easy until I get pregnant, which means I probably just won’t be running for a while. haha
Sounds like you definitely made the right decision for yourself and I am happy you were able to enjoy a little runner’s induced high on Saturday! Those are the best!
Awesome post Chelsey! I love when you said to not compare yourself - it’s so true. That comparison trap can be really dangerous. Good for you for taking those steps to get back into running. Who cares how long you can run now - it’s all about progress.
been, still am there! But i think to lose fitness is to gain it fitness… fresh start!
My last humbling experience happened a few months ago when I started to swim. I knew it would be hard, but figured I had ran a full marathon and swimming a few laps would be no biggie since my cardio is very good. After 100m left my huffing and puffing and my legs were burning boy I was I shocked! It took me 3 months to be able to swim about 250m and that was still with breaks! Very humbling indeed.
I love swimming. I definitely don’t do it enough!
Good for you - hang in there!! I had a humbling run the other day too, when I first attempted to run after my half marathon. 13.1 miles is a lot, and I definitely needed a long time to recover!
I think it’s awesome - this route that you’re taking. Imagine what your son/daughter will think of your sacrifices for THEM!
Running is definitely a humbling sport - especially when you back off of it for a few weeks or months. Isn’t it crazy how quickly the body loses its ability to do it? What you said about never giving up on something you love is so true though - there’s plenty of time in the future to continue pursuing it, and when it’s right for your body, you’ll fall right back into it and work through the “beginner’s challenges” like a champ!
Our bodies sure do lose endurance quickly. However, my body did not forget how to run! It felt great.
You are awesome. That is all…. Okay, I’m a liar that isn’t all….. Wonderful writing and perspective. I couldn’t agree more with the difficulty starting exercise- soooo tough. It is also tough to go in the other direction if you are an exerciser.
I get humbled every single year when I switch grades and become a new teacher all over again- always at square one with my students- learning everything for the first time…..
You’re not switching grades again next year are you?
Yep. I went from 6th, to Kindergarten, to 2nd, to 3rd… Now I’m on to 4th for next year. Same kids as last year….. …. and then hopefully (fingers crossed!!!) I’ll get to switch to 1st— FOR GOOD!
my goodness - I hope this next year is the LAST move for you!!!
Yoga is always a humbling experience for me - I know I’m improving, but still feel don’t feel as “good” at it as the other ladies in the classes.
Awesome post ! I haven’t run all that much either and I forgot how hard it was as well! I’m glad you enjoyed your run
It’s funny you mention all of this because I have just started running only about 2 months ago and I am struggling - big time. I have never, ever been a runner even though I was in sports growing up. It’s so hard for me! But, I’ve been keeping up with it diligently and I’m able to run 1 mile to 1-1/2 miles now! You hit the nail on the head when you said to not compare yourself to others, too. I have friends that are able to just run 5 miles whenever they want without training. I just know that it’s easy for some and harder for others and I’m proud of what I have accomplished!
This post was great for me to read right now. Thanks!
Keep with it Katie!
Humbling experiences? Yes, daily. It’s called parenthood! There is always something that comes up that reminds you that you don’t know everything, can’t control everything, and even with the best laid plans, things don’t always go according to plans but you just roll with it anyway
Here’s to you finding your groove again!
haha I believe it!!
Great message at the end of this post! I remember when I started running I wanted to give up so many times because I would get out of breath after just 5 minutes. But if you stick with it, it WILL get easier. It’s something I wish I could tell all beginner runners!
oh gosh I can relate to this so much! When I did something to my ankle (still not sure what…) I had to take a month off and boy was it hard to get back up to my double digit runs. 5 miles felt like the longest time in the world!
ugh, there is honestly NOTHING more aggravating about getting back into running. seriously, it’s such a heartbreak to have to take time off, then once you make the commitment to getting back into it… why does it have to be so stinkin’ difficult?
just think. you’re over the hump. it’ll only get better from what you just did. I’m prouda you for sticking with it!
oh goodness, i’m humbled by exercise all the time.
i constantly “think” my body is healthy or functional (even though i know i am sick because i struggle with an eating disorder) but then i watch a body pump class or see someone running and there is just NO way i can do that. it is good for me to have those moments though.
but what i really wanted to say is that i will say prayers for you…just hold on to faith, hope and TRUST most importantly. (0:
so funny - i wrote a post similar to this this morning! i am having a terrible time getting back into exercising. it’s TOUGH! hang in there lady, there’s plenty of time for marathons and training in the future
I saw that and was laughing at how similar it was!
After a 6 month running hiatus to heal from a bad half marathon, my first short run back was miserable, burny-lungs and lead-legs. I thought how did I ever do this (and enjoy this craziness) before? I took it really slow and every small run after that became a small victory.
I love this post and can definitely relate…I am getting back into the gym grove and am constantly reminded how it can be difficult to make exercise a part of your life. Just have to remember how great it feels at the end and how within a few weeks it will feel like part of your life again.
Oh goodness Chelsey, I absolutely loved this post!! You are anything but a failure. I admire you so very much for being able to give up on the intense exercise and get the results you needed. I think you are MUCH stronger for being able to get past those negative, hard thoughts than being able to run 10 miles. When you are a mama all this will be SO worth it!
Thank you Lisa!
I’m a new runner and although I don’t love it, I’m definitely going to stick with it! There’s nothing I want more than to be able to finish 5 miles without feeling like death
Keep with it Sara!
Getting back into running is never easy. I took a 3 week break after a recent surgery. This was the first time in years I didn’t do anything. I had to start out slow and am just now feeling like I can tackle things like speedwork.
Having to change around my lifestyle to find a way to be able to conceive has been harder than I thought. I still haven’t looked into acupuncture, but I’m really hoping to figure out what’s wrong with my body. It’s hard watching everyone else I know get pregnant so easily, but I’m finding more and more people online who understand that it isn’t easy for everyone!
I would love for you to email me and tell me about your struggles Amber!
I’ve definitely had those experiences with running. Because I’m going to school full time, there’s a lot of times when I don’t have the chance to workout consistently.
I don’t know if you are looking for any new workouts, but have you ever looked into swimming? You can make it as hard/easy as you want. Compared to running it has about equal calorie burning effectiveness and you can’t tell when you are sweating (one of my favorite parts). It is also really low-impact on your body/joints. Don’t get me wrong, you will feel it; especially if you aren’t used to swimming, but so relaxing/mellowing/etc. I could talk about it forever. Don’t know if you are interested, but that’s my two cents
I actually was a competitive swimmer in high school!
Tough workouts are so humbling. I was never a long-distance runner but I trained for a sprint distance duathlon (a bike ride with a 5K run before and a 5K run after) a few years ago and I was in amazing shape. I had to stop training due to an injury and when I first went back and tried to run again my times were just so pathetic I was disheartened. I had to put my previous experiences out of my head and just focus on starting afresh. It’s so tough!
I’m right there with ya girl!! I tried to lift some weights this past weekend, and it was rough! However, remember the goal…
When the Lord blesses you with a child, a runner’s high will not even compare! xoxo
I agree - thanks for the reminder Brittany!
Oh my goodness, I haven’t been on a run in quiiite a while, so I’m sure it would be just as humbling of an experience.
But this past Sunday I went to a Body Attack class (thinking it was Body Pump.) It was terribly humbling. Oh whatever. It was down right embarrassing. But I did it!
Yikes. What in the world is body attack?
This whole semester has been one big humbling experience for me. A lot of lessons learned and things I’m still trying to learn and grow from! It’s been a rough one!
Beautiful post…and I can totally relate.
I’m still recovering from a wrist/thumb injury that left me modifying every yoga pose for close to a year. The modifications then caused nerve stuff in my forearms. Humbling indeed. I’m at the point now where I can truly say that our injuries, or in your case, your preventative medicine, are our best teachers. And I can still remember the joy of finally pushing up into my first down dog after so many months of not being able to…or being able to do three modified push-ups in a row without excruciating pain.
Humbling experiences are often hard but I feel lke the rewards they give us are more than worth it. <3
I am in the same exact situation as you. I was also going to do my first half this year - the brooklyn which was just this past weekend. I had to stop running and switch to walking and yoga back in feb for similar reasons - low weight, muscle loss, hormonal imbalance. Its been a rough road, but gotta treat your body right. I just keep thinking positive and looking toward the future.
Thanks for sharing - nice to not be alone.
Every time I teach step aerobics after a long break…especially if that break didn’t include much individual exercise. It always gets me how hard it is for me to talk/count and sound upbeat for an hour while working out hard enough to push my more advanced students.
(And grad school. Its not physically humbling, but its mentally humbling at least once a week!)
I can totally relate to this. I had a stress fracture in my femur in October and haven’t had many good runs since. There is always something that doesn’t go right. I ran outside with a friend today for about a mile and was huffing and puffing but my god did that wind feel good on my face. All we can do is think positively and hope that things will just keep getting better and better!
i cant even tell you how much it means to me to have these posts…emailing you.
I’m just starting to run (I’m doing Week 4 of Couch to 5k) and can’t imagine being able to run for 20 minutes at a time. The 3 minutes at a time this past week was a killer. But I’m hopeful that starting slow will pay off and I’ll be less likely to give up. Thanks for the inspirational post!
I can totally relate, Chelsey! I went from being an avid runner to struggling with weird foot and leg issues for a year. I hadn’t run since February 2011 and then I ran my first 3 miles on Saturday. It was so nice out that I was itching to run. It was hard, but I relished every second of it. I know I’ll never be able to run like I used to, but I know I’ll cherish each run that I do have.