Erica Kartak

 (photo from Ragnar Great River, getting ready to handoff to the next runner)

Since I haven’t actually been on a run in six months, maybe the title of this post should have been “Why I Love Running,” “Why I Ran” or “Why I Can’t Wait to Run Again.” As I near the end of this pregnancy, I’ve thought a lot about running. With access to new paths and areas, I’m really looking forward to starting up again. The perfect temperatures this time of year don’t hurt either. Some people think running is crazy so I thought I’d share the reasons behind why I run.

I’ve been running pretty consistently for almost 15 years and it’s a big part of my life (I completed my first marathon last January and have run 10 200 mile relays with friends). I’m certainly not an expert. And I’m not particularly fast either. But I have made running a part of my life.

I choose running over other forms of exercise because it’s basically free, can be done at any place or time of day and provides the most payoff for the physical exertion. Over the past 15 years, I’ve added more gadgets and accessories, but all you really need is a pair of running shoes and maybe a watch.

Unlike gym classes, I can run on my own schedule. It’s pretty easy to fit in a 3-mile run in the morning before work, over lunch or at night (although you do need to invest in reflective gear if you’re running in the dark). There’s no driving to a gym or studio, I can tie my shoes and run out the door. I’m definitely an outside runner. For me there’s nothing better than heading outside for a run. It’s also an easy way to see a new place when traveling. I’ve run through Central Park, the hills of Napa and streets of Pinehurst, North Carolina (where I tripped and fell for the first time!) It’s a great way to explore and reset your internal clock.

I’d like to say I fit in a long workout each day, but the reality is sometimes I only have 30-45 minutes. I get a better workout running during that time than anything else I could do. Running is much more of a full body workout than you may imagine. Your legs are clearly working, but your arms and core are engaged the entire time too.

Other workouts come and go from my routine, but I always return to running. Don’t get me wrong, there are days when I have a bad run or can’t motivate myself to head out the door. I return to it because I feel strong when I run.

What’s your favorite workout? And what keeps you going back to it?