Dragging my feet, but getting it done

I used to run. Ok, not really run. More like jog. Slow jog. And it was fun. I mean, I enjoyed it well enough. I would go out around 9pm on warm summer evenings, just when it had gotten dark. The air was perfect, no sun in my eyes, just going. Pepper spray in fist (or bra), of course. A nice big loop around a few blocks, then back home to stretch. It was therapeutic. I have fond memories.

However, these fond memories have been tainted by a single 5k I did in the summer of 2010. I had the worst shin splints ever, but I still wanted to try to run. I remember feeling like knives were stabbing my shins with every step. It was hell. When I finally finished, I plopped down on the curb to try to rub out my shins in vain. I bypassed the free food and went straight home, probably to ice my shins for the rest of the day. Woe was me.

I've gone on a handful of jogs since then, but nothing lasted. If I felt any sort of strain in my calves or shins, I was out. Done. Never again.

But I don't want to be limited. I don't want to admit defeat to running, to my body.

And so here I am again. New running shoes. Slowly pacing myself. Rubbing down my shins after every lap on a track. You know.

Last month I quietly signed up for another 5k. I didn't tell anyone for a while, and still do not plan on telling anyone when or where it is. I just want to do it. Just for me. Just to prove to myself that I can do it, and furthermore, enjoy it. I'll be sure to let you know how it goes!

In the meantime, what is a fear or obstacle that you have conquered? Share your experiences in the comment section below.