I don’t plan on writing an update every week about my newfound goal to become a runner, but this week I couldn’t resist.

It has been a great, yet challenging week as I delve into this healthier lifestyle of mine.

The first few days were the most difficult. While it’s easy to say you want to make changes in life, it’s 10 times harder to actually make the changes. At least for me, that’s the case.

That’s the mindset I was in those first few days as I was still wrapping my head around what I committed myself to do. It’s not realistic to say I’m going to run a half marathon in a year, but I do think it is realistic to run a 5K. I have to start somewhere.

Once I jumped on board physically with my goal — and grabbed some friends to join me for the ride — things got easier as I had some extra support to lean on.

I also greatly appreciate the support I have received from members of this community, as well as others, who have encouraged me in other ways. It feels great to know that support is there and that I have others who believe in me.

Some friends have offered to walk with me; another friend is loaning me a stroller for my son who has outgrown the one we had. Others have offered kind words. Those kind words of encouragement are often the most beneficial.

Though I’m not quite where I wanted to be after the first week, I’m proud to say I walked three out of seven days this week. Going from no exercise over the winter to walking two to three miles for three days a week may not seem like much to some, but it has definitely been a step up for me.

At the same time, I am feeling aches and pains already, so I am reminded that my body still has a lot of work yet to do.

I didn’t get overweight and out of shape overnight, and I’m sure not going to be able to reverse it overnight — and that’s OK. I think part of this journey I am going on is going to be about me learning to accept my imperfections and working to make those strengths.

If anyone has any suggestions or would like a walking partner, feel free to contact me.

I’m not yet able to run, but I’m ready to walk.

 

Sarah Stultz is the managing editor of the Tribune. Her column appears every Tuesday.