Stories on Why I Run

Stories shared with the Profinium Why I Run Facebook ‘Virtual’ Event Page 2019.

– Jessica K.

I run for many reasons some of which are:

        • To stay healthy and in shape
        • To push myself harder when I can and to just enjoy the scenery on the slower days,
        • My way to explore the community,
        • To always remind myself to be grateful I am capable of running,
        • But one of the main reasons I started to run is when I was 12, my sister and I decided we wanted to start running for the challenge and exercise so we started running 5Ks and have worked our way to Disney’s Dopey Challenge (48.6 miles over four days)!

Running has become addictive is a good way. I just moved to Rochester, MN from Nashville, TN so running here has helped me learn the different streets and neighborhoods in a way I wouldn’t have learned by driving. I never regret becoming a runner!

– Amber S.

I run for simple reason that I love it. I fell in love with running as a child playing tag at recess and racing the boys in gym class. I continued to run in high school by joining track and cross country and have continued to run in my adult life. I prefer short quicker races like the 5k/10k and have found a new challenge in OCR racing. Running is one constant thing in my life that I have always been able to rely on to escape from everyday life, to push my body to new limits, and to pull me out of depression when it hits. I run because of the joy that it brings me.

– Lucia G.

I run for me.
I’ve struggled with my weight most of my life. Was never good in gym class or sports due to asthma. Running the mile every year was torture. Finally 3 years ago, I hit my second highest weight and was very down on myself. My friend invited me to a Body Pump event through the Mankato YMCA and I almost died, I didn’t even finish the whole class. Plus, Couldn’t walk normal for 2 weeks. I decided that I needed to focus on walking and diet before trying again. I went back 2 months later after losing 10lbs and then started going to class regularly for the next 2 years. In the back of my mind, I always wanted to become a runner. I’d see people out running and wishing that I was doing that. After losing around 30lbs, I decided to challenge myself with running and signed up for my first 5k. I was determined to become a runner. I set a time goal for the 5k and was just short of making it by a minute in a half, but that still showed me that I could achieve what I wanted to do. In Dec. 2018, I saw the post for the Mankato Marathon and the special pricing they had. I debated for about a day before taking the plunge and signing up for the Half Marathon for 2019. I am a runner, I’m definitely not the best runner, but I am a runner. In the end all that matters is giving it your best and pushing yourself to never give up.

– KC C.

I run to challenge myself. I’ve always hated running but was determined to do something different. I signed up for my first 5k last November and loved it!! My goal for 2019 is to run 12 5ks. I’m at 8 with only 4 more to go!! Next year (fall of 2020) I’m going for my first half marathon!! ❤️🏃🏻‍♀️❤️ Also my dog loves running with me and motivates me more than anyone.

“The body follows what the mind commands”

– Kerri P.

My why for running…
the friendships and conversation
to stay fit
to relieve stress and escape
for my health (mind and body)
to teach my kids about a healthy lifestyle
to belong to a community
to set personal goals
to reflect
to celebrate

– Jaci H.

This year I’m running for a healthier me! Healthier mind and body! In honor of my grandmother who only made it to 42 after a battle with cancer. This year is a big one for our family, I turn 42 and I’m so grateful for my life. I have amazing people that motivate me with how strong they are in their life struggles. I’m so thankful I’m able to have the support and time to give to myself. I started running with the We Run running group years ago. After the full marathon killed my knees in 2011, I’ve run here and there only but always(except one year I helped at the finish line) have run a Mankato Marathon race. My knees are doing well and I’m excited for the new course. I’m going to have my 5 kiddos help me make an “I’m grateful” shirt for the race…watch for me!!