My very first 5k: a beginner's story

If you would have asked me a year ago if I wanted to run a 5k, I probably would have laughed in your face. I was never a runner. Not to say I didn't try--- I tried a couple of times. I laced up my shoes and dragged my husband along with me, only to limp home. To be honest, the extra weight I was carrying made running extremely difficult. I decided after I'd lost some weight that I'd try again. In January, I bought new shoes, downloaded the Couch to 5k app for my phone, and never looked back. I've been running ever since and I have come to love it. It helps me clear my head, challenges me to listen to my body and do what I can to take care of it, and it helps break up my fitness routine. Can I run very fast?  I mean, my pace is decent. I know there are people that run faster than I do but my pace is one I'm comfortable with for now (I have only been running since January!) Anyway, I wanted to celebrate this huge accomplishment for me by (duh!) running a 5k! And what better way to celebrate than to do The Color Run with friends?! 

Before the race...all shiny and clean!

Now, I have to admit I was a little discouraged the week before the run because it seems I have a little case of runner's knee. I was so bummed at the thought of not actually being able to run for my first 5k. I took really good care of my knee all week (and I'm resting from running all of this week which is killing me but I know it's what is best for my body) and I was able to run the whole way! Well, with the exception of when we hit the color sections because everyone walked through those and  a couple of hills to save my knee. I'm so thankful this wasn't a timed race because it really allowed me to enjoy the whole experience of my first race and just have fun. I'm looking forward to running many, many more!

And after!

Excited to have finished my first 5k!

Tie-dyed elbows

My team!