At 27, really getting committed and focusing on running for the first time in my life. I have always worked out consistently since about age 16, but have focused mainly on weights and running has been a 'side' activity varying in degree throughout the year. At my age, profession, and based on my goals, running just makes a lot more sense. I no longer desire to be big and muscular. I want to be slender with low BF, relieve stress, continue to be self competitive, be healthier, and have a hobby I can enjoy with others that keeps me somewhat disciplined.
For the first time in my life, I've dedicated a whole month to nothing but running 3-5 times a week, absolutely no weights and have really, really, enjoyed it. Mixed with weights I used to treat running like the 'side' activity it was, but making it my main focus has made it a lot more enjoyable and I have made a lot of progress very quick. I used to trot 2 or 3 miles after lifting weights maybe twice a week. After a steady month of consistent runs of varying distances between 3 - 4- 5 - 6 miles, I wanted to see what I could bust out on my traditional 3 mile loop compared to my old times and pace. Really pushed it hard and felt borderline miserable but ran it in 20:42 which came out to be an average pace of 6:54 a mile. I was shocked and very stoked because I know I have room to make good improvement. I normally ran it in the 24's with a 8+ pace.
That aside, recently I have linked up with some other runners in the area and am really enjoying the moderate distance loops. Bought all the cold weather gear and hope to maintain through the winter and hit a few halfies this spring.
Just wanted to drop in and say hello, I will be following your alls progress and hopefully posting mine as well from time to time.