I have always been someone who sticks to exercise for a short period of time, and then slowly slacks off. I have had a few gym memberships that I have committed to, and then cancelled when I no longer had the motivation to go. When I decided in August of 2012 that I need to get moving again, I started off with 20 minute walks. I never, ever thought running was something I could do. Then I found Operation Move and was inspired.
Here is my very first blog post where I talked about Operation Move, back in September 2012. In this particular post I was buzzing from doing my first run without having any walking breaks, I was so excited and couldn’t wait to get back out there.
“I have done a few of the jog/walks now but this morning I decided to push myself a little. Instead of breaking up the jogging with fast walking I thought I would try and see how long I could keep up a steady jog for. As it turns out I was able to comfortably (until the end when I was panting and wheezing) jog for 20minutes. I walked home to cool down and although I was hot, sweaty, worn out I felt fantastic. I still do.”
Thus my love of running was born. There were a few hiccups in my journey, I had started my running on a grassy area and during one of my runs I rolled my ankle on the uneven surface. I rested it for about a month, and then was silly enough to go running (on the grass again) and rolled it again. I was out for almost another month. Once I was sure my ankle was better I started my running journey again, this time on the road.
Joining the group, and now the Operation Move forums, has been an integral part in getting me to where I am today in my running. Without the support, love, encouragement and friendly kicks in the rear I would not have had the courage to keep running, I never thought I could run 5km, let alone the 10km I ran last weekend.
A half marathon is my next goal and with the support of Operation Move I know I can achieve that.
To steal a phrase from Operation Move .. get moving, get fit, have fun <3
Deana is one of our original OpMovers. She has been a wealth of support to many of our members as well as inspiring many with her own health and fitness journey. You can find her at her blog, Are You Pondering What I’m Pondering?