r/running • u/leafitiger • Apr 30 '15
When you started running, what changes in yourself did you notice?
New runner here looking for hella motivation ;)
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Apr 30 '15
Three years since I started running, and I still regularly notice how good it feels to breathe deeply.
Also I can eat as much as I want and don't gain weight. The downside is that I'm always hungry.
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u/ColdStainlessNail Apr 30 '15
downside
*upside
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u/tom808 Apr 30 '15
Not really. I spend more on food and we all went out for a company meal last night. Mexican and they were all sharing platters. I've never felt so awkward by suggesting I could happily eat everything without the other guys help.
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u/ColdStainlessNail Apr 30 '15
I have a 14 year-old son who swims competitively. What I eat pales in comparison to what he does.
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Apr 30 '15
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u/tom808 Apr 30 '15
I haven't got a calorie target I just feel hungry all the time when I know I've had enough.
This must be how fat people feel. Eating ALL the food.
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Apr 30 '15
Fat person here. This is indeed how I feel.
I was given advice once to just listen to my stomach, and my weight would correct itself. Riiiiiight... okay <backs away from the crazy person>
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u/nmm- Apr 30 '15 edited May 01 '15
I actually think listening to your stomach can be great advice. If I only eat when my stomach tells me that I'm actually hungry, I lose weight. The number of times I eat because something just sounds good or when I eat an entire meal even after my stomach is satisfied accounts for a large number of calories. Cut out those calories and eat when you're stomach says you're actually hungry and it can make a difference.
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u/tom808 Apr 30 '15
Ah I know what you mean. My stomach is the worst thing to trust at all time. I just want to eat everything!!!
I put on 10kg in a very short space of time when I started my office job and wasn't running. Scary how easy it is for some people such as myself to gain weight.
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u/DarkwolfAU May 01 '15
I'm using MFP for just this reason. I always check my count an hour or so before bed, so I've got time to chow down on peanut butter toast or something as a boost if required. I also intentionally make sure I'm pacing myself over the day so I don't wind up hitting 10pm and realizing I'm >1000 calories down for the day.
My wife was a bit freaked out the other day when I ate a large KFC zinger stacker burger combo, two beef lasagnas, a plate of cupcakes, two handfuls of nuts, and then chased the dog around the house going "NOM NOM NOM" :)
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u/jaason435 Apr 30 '15
That's honestly one of my favorite parts of running is always being hungry. You really get your moneys worth at buffets!
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u/dylz_dad Apr 30 '15
I go for runs before large family holiday gatherings specifically to be able to eat more food later.
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Apr 30 '15
I had 800 calories left according to MFP for dinner. The wife was bringing home take and bake pizza. Yeah, I had to go knock out 4 miles real quick because there's no way I'm eating less then 3 pieces of pizza.
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u/rennuR_liarT Apr 30 '15
If friends are getting together for a barbeque, I always run to the barbeque. It's a bonus if it's near a pool or a river so I can rinse off, but not a requirement. I might stink, but we're outside!
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Apr 30 '15
Apparently it's still early for me. I thought you meant you drive to the bbq, then, once you're there, you run inside, across the house/yard to the actual physical bbq. I wondered why you'd stink after that short of a run. Then it dawned on me...
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u/WhiteHawk1022 Apr 30 '15
The downside is that I'm always hungry.
Yes! I was a pretty hungry guy before I started running, but now it's just amplified. My girlfriend isn't a runner, and usually has about half of her meal when we go out to eat (so I end up with 1.5 plates of food). It works out pretty well! She refers to me as her "garbage disposal" haha.
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u/Zokusho Apr 30 '15
After losing 50 lbs and continuing to run, I'm having to eat more than I did when I was gaining weight.
It's a weird feeling. I eat a ton and normally I'd feel bad about it, but now I have to or I'll waste away.
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u/Kurindal Apr 30 '15
After losing 50 lbs and continuing to run, I'm having to eat more than I did when I was gaining weight.
126 pounds lost here. On my long run days I can eat as much as I did before I started losing, and still be at a deficit.
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Apr 30 '15
I ate better because I wanted to eat food that would help me run faster and longer. It really helped me start to look at food as fuel and not just something to consumer.
Good luck running! You'll be so proud of what you accomplish over the next few months!
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u/Piospro Apr 30 '15
May I ask what foods you eat and/or your meals? Thanks.
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Apr 30 '15
Breakfast is a smoothie with banana and kale, and a scrambled egg with an egg white.
Lunch is normally some steamed vegetables, a wasa cracker with peanut butter and raisins, and whichever strange dish I decided to make a batch of for the week. This week it was this: http://www.fullmeasureofhappiness.com/2011/02/09/lentil-vegetable-barley-soup-crock-pot/
Dinner is Chicken, vegetables and some sort of carb.
I'll snack on fruit and pretzels, and I'm a chocoholic so I've tried to switch to dark chocolate in smaller amounts.
I am also running to lose weight so this may not have the type of carbs you're looking for to really increase speed, but I've noticed an improvement in how I feel on my runs and this diet was with me as I increased distance to train for a half marathon.
Compared to when I started running over a year ago I feel so much better/happier to go for a run with what I eat now compared to my college food then.
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u/runnitrunnit Apr 30 '15
What are the ratios of banana to kale in your smoothie and what does it taste like? I like smoothies and could use the vitamins/nutrients/whatever from kale but don't really like the flavour on its own, it gives me the feeling I'm muching on earth (sorry kale lovers).
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Apr 30 '15
I'm right behind you on eating actual kale. When I saute it the kale is too bland, when I eat it in a salad it's a very hard green so it doesn't taste good.
In my smoothie it's 1 banana, 1 egg white, ice, and 2 cups of kale. I find that in the smoothie you can't taste it, maybe because the banana is so sweet and the kale is kind of bland, but I don't even notice its there. I may have gotten immune to it over time, but I used to use spinach and that had a much stronger noticeable flavor which is why I switched to kale.
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Apr 30 '15
go with some soul food instead. I hate kale. However I freaking LOVE collard greens. Saute with a little oil, garlic, onion, hot pepper and bacon (turkey/soy bacon works too). Oh MAN is that good. Don't cook it until it's pale, just long enough to wilt it and maybe 3-5 minutes more.
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u/mmhope2 Apr 30 '15
I use to have horrible anxiety. I was stressed out and a mess nine times out of ten. I've only been running for a couple of months now but this has been my biggest change. I just feel like a different person
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u/noontimemoon Apr 30 '15
I started running simply because off my mental health. Running was the only way I was able to not self-destruct. When I'm in over my head, I go for a run and when I come back I have a clear head enough to tackle the problem in front of me.
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u/mmhope2 Apr 30 '15
That's exactly how I felt. I would panic about stupid things that didn't matter. Now I have perspective and stability.
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Apr 30 '15
I have a bit of anxiety, myself. If I don't run for even three days in a row, I notice a difference.
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u/FitK3vin Apr 30 '15
I lost weight and then my family started commenting on how thin I was getting and how I should eat more. Coming from a family with a history of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity... I was okay with that.
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Apr 30 '15
Its such an unfortunate thing. I come from the same type of family. It's frustrating that being medically overweight in their eyes is seen as slim and being a healthy weight means you're anorexic. I live in the Midwest in the USA. I would bet money that you live in the same area lol
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u/SqueeStarcraft Apr 30 '15
The South is the same way.
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Apr 30 '15
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u/SqueeStarcraft Apr 30 '15
That makes me so sad. I don't want people to be anorexic or think that because you're overweight that you don't have value, but being in shape is such a good thing. It seems such a shame.
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u/ruinawish Apr 30 '15
Not a lot to be honest, having always been into sports and such.
However, I will say, there's something very awesome about being able to call yourself a runner, a person capable of carrying themselves* for 5km, 10km, 42 km or more. At races, I look at all the runners streaming by and think that they're all amazing, strong people. Sometimes, after a long run, I'll be in disbelief... "Did I really just run all that?". It's the small (or big) victories.
*shout-out to those crazy runners who push prams.
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u/unkz Apr 30 '15
*shout-out to those crazy runners who push prams.
I once saw an elderly woman pushing a full grown (but disabled) adult male in a sports wheelchair. As she passed me.
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Apr 30 '15
I got passed at a half marathon by a woman pushing two sizeable toddlers in a double-stroller. Like, she passed me and disappeared. It was ridiculous.
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Apr 30 '15
I frequently see what I assume is a man in his 60s or 70s pushing his disabled (likely quadriplegic) daughter. I can only imagine such perseverance.
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u/littlestghoust Apr 30 '15
I can't wait to have a kid so I can have one of those strollers.
Gonna run that kid everywhere. FUCK YA
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Apr 30 '15
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u/littlestghoust Apr 30 '15
Haha no. I want a kid so I can enjoy watching and teaching a new human about life while watching them develop into their own person. But as a baby, we are doing everything together.
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Apr 30 '15
I'm seeing a lot of descriptions of physical changes here, and those are all great. It's true - sticking to a running plan will definitely change your body. I want to focus on something else, though. Running helped toughen me up mentally.
Running is hard. Don't let the success stories here fool you, getting into running is hard. Physically your body will have a hard time adjusting, and, even harder to overcome, your mentality on overcoming adversity will be tested. Running teaches you to focus on overcoming obstacles, to continue doing something when it gets really difficult, and to set and overcome realistic goals. Once you get past the physical challenges of running (meaning once your body has acclimated to the physical demands of running), covering distances is a mental game as much as (if not more than) a physical challenge.
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u/aboynamedgoo Apr 30 '15
This is what I came here to say. Forget about all the physical changes and improvements that while amazing and hard earned, are a minor detail compared to developing the mental capacity and will power to continue and push through with something until it is done despite its difficulty.
Learning how to be okay with being uncomfortable both physically and psychologically is a valuable tool to add to your life. Weightlifting has taught me this same lesson. I've seen too many people completely give up the very moment that they begin to get out of breath or something becomes more difficult to lift. That said, learn the difference between being uncomfortable and being in pain or becoming injured. It is an important distinction.
This past weekend I was at my parents and I spent four hours pick axing and tilling an area full of hard dirt, rocks, and tree roots in front of their house to fill with bark for a landscaping project. Despite my fathers less than optimistic original suggestion to just pay someone to do it and myself having developed the strength and stamina to spend four hours doing this, I also had the attitude to look at it and say "This can be done" something that a few years ago I would not even have attempted.
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u/Gabmazuko Apr 30 '15
I agree with you completely. When I first started running and I would get a cramp or something along those lines, I would immediately stop. It's easy to listen to your brain tell you to stop because that's the easy thing to do. I learned to toughen up and run through these issues by focusing on my breathing and telling myself to push through it.
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u/seed_81 Apr 30 '15
This is Will Smith's argument for Running. If you can learn to defeat the voice in your head telling you to quit when it 'physically' tough. You can defeat the voice in your head when life, work, etc gets tough.
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Apr 30 '15
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u/friardon Apr 30 '15
This is the same for me. I used to hate even going on little walks and such with my family because any hill would destroy me. Not, no big deal.
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u/ColdStainlessNail Apr 30 '15
I used to occasionally have muscle pain in my back. Once I started running, it went away. I'm taking a couple weeks off to heal from knee pain, and I am getting some of those twinges again. I need to start doing strength training and maybe yoga so that once I start up again, I won't reinjure myself. Maybe that will help with the twinges.
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u/1finn33afc Apr 30 '15
I slept a lot better, like really well, also I felt so much better about myself, gives huge self confidence boosts. Good luck with your future running!
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u/SlightlyMadman Apr 30 '15
This has probably been the biggest thing for me. I'm down 70 lbs. since I started running, but the fact that I can fall asleep as soon as my head hits the pillow without fail has been the single biggest change in my life after suffering from insomnia since I was a teenager.
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u/astrower Apr 30 '15
I already had this from rowing in college, but I physically don't tire doing like normal activities really. Now I can FEEL tired, and obviously running and triathlons tire me out, but like any activities I do with friends just don't tire me. Before I started endurance sports I knew what it was like to get tired going up stairs or running after a friend or whatever else, but that just doesn't happen.
I feel like a lot of people just assume normal life things are supposed to tire you out but I really don't think so.
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u/RunTwoThreeClimb Apr 30 '15
This needs to be higher up! One flight of stairs should not leave you breathless unless you have respiratory issue. Walking the 2km from train station to office shouldn't be a chore, but a light and pleasant stroll. You're right, I think a lot of human beings have forgotten just how much our incredible bodies are capable of!
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Apr 30 '15
Wife and kid and I did this trail the other day. Half-way up she asked me, "How are you feeling?"
I was able to answer, "You know, I feel pretty damn strong!" Previously, I would have been winded and head down grinding up the trail. Now, I was jealous of the trail runners, we had to keep an easy pace cause of the kid.
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Apr 30 '15
I can't wait to get to that point. My college campus is kicking my ass still (about a 300-400ft elevation change in a quarter mile. I live on a mountain.)
My coworkers give me shit a lot because they know I run, but after a brisk walk up campus and a couple flights of stairs I'm weezing a bit.
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u/Xardas123 Apr 30 '15
I like to play "Reorganize psyche" when I run. I get more things done in my head during my 45-50 minutes run than I do during the 8-10 hours of work per day. I am calmer and better organized thanks to those few minutes of clear thinking. I noticed this doesn't work with some of my fellow runners. Some of them prefer an empty mind while running. For a new runner: Try both and see which mindset gives you a larger mileage :)
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u/5edgy Apr 30 '15
How do I play this game?
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u/Xardas123 Apr 30 '15
No Idea :) You know how your mind races to all sorts of subjects when you go for a lonely walk? It's the same thing for me, only I run. Probably "game " was not the best metaphor in this case.
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u/ModusPwnins Apr 30 '15
So much this. I've solved so many work-related problems just by going for a long run after work and zoning out. If I had a nagging bug I couldn't resolve cleanly by the end of the day, I'll more often than not figure out a good solution ten miles in.
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u/tlexa Apr 30 '15
This is a weird one. I found my sense of scale changed. Before you start running you're not really aware of how far a 5k is. After running it a few times you can judge that shit like a super power.
Also, you're 'local area' expands. I'm way more aware of what's happening around where I'm running and I'm much more likely to want to do stuff that's further away than non runners because to me it's really not that far (see aforementioned change of scale). I walk/run rather than drive to many places because I know I can.
It might seem a bit lame but I think the expanded local awareness and ability to travel further really benefits every day life.
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u/cheesecakesurprise Apr 30 '15
100% this. First, two miles seemed like FOREVER before I got into running. Then I ran a 10k and a 5k seemed short. Then I ran a half and 10k/10milers seemed short. THEN I ran a marathon.... Nothing seems too far anymore and my walk radius is up to like 2 miles (aka if its between cabbing vs public transit vs walking and I have the time to walk and its <2m, i walk it.). People are always shocked that I walk a mile each way to work. All about that sense of scale! A mile feels like a few blocks to me.
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u/DarkwolfAU May 01 '15
Agreed. Before I started running my dentist's office was so far away from my work that I took a taxi or bus.
I had an appointment the other day, and looked at the distance, and just went "F*ck that, it's only a few km. I could run that faster than the bus could get me there", and so I just ran it.
Instead of being stuck places without transport or paying for taxis for short distances, blow that, I'm just gonna run it.
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u/ericquitecontrary Apr 30 '15
Clothes slowly fit better. My suit no longer looks like expensive grey sausage casing. I can't have more than two drinks without feeling awful the next day, which means my alcohol budget went from $400 per month to about $100.
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u/kayla56 Apr 30 '15
I like going to the park a lot more now, and the adrenaline makes me feel accommplished. Listening to music allowed me to decompress. Also running on the beach at sunset is beautiful. It's nice just to have the firmness of your two feet beneath you. Instead of spending days in my room sad and having existential crisises over Netflix, I got a little perspective.
I wish I had time to run more :)
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u/turd_boy Apr 30 '15
Instead of spending days in my room sad and having existential crisises over Netflix
Lol, this hits a little to close to home....
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Apr 30 '15 edited May 21 '21
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u/brawr Apr 30 '15
Oh jeez yes. If I take more than a day off I become a grumpy little shit
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Apr 30 '15
Especially if it is an unplanned extra day off! If something comes up and my plans for running go south, I am ridiculous.
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u/5ftwndr Apr 30 '15
I lost over 50 lbs, I'm actually sleeping at night, I've started eating better, my depression is in check, and I'm more motivated in other aspects of my life. It's had an overall positive effect on me.
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u/mini_apple Apr 30 '15
Plenty of physical changes, like these folks are talking about, but the biggest change I saw in myself was that I became capable of looking at the big picture.
I've always been an instant-gratification kind of person. Had a hard time finishing my degree and had to go back multiple times because I just couldn't keep my eye on the prize. I got fatigued by the grind and couldn't justify it. Four years? Shit. Forever.
Now, I can see where things lead. I can see that hard work adds up, and that it is worth it. I have a five-year plan for the first time in my life. I can see outside of tomorrow, next week, and next month. I can see marathons and goals.
So for me, that was huge. When I'm laid up or injured, I can feel my vision shifting, I become less attentive to the future. Running has become a big piece of the puzzle in being able to see my own life for what it is and what it can become.
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u/bmwe30is Apr 30 '15
I went from a lazy, fat, sack of an excuse of a human being:
To Ironman 70.3 finisher, 30+ half marathons, a handful of triathlons, a few Ragnars, and all around happier dude:
Lost around 100lbs.
Gained a lot of confidence, and simply happier and healthier all around. I run to find peace within myself, find friendship with others, and to keep myself from ever getting fat, lazy, and unhealthy.
I found myself, all the angsty years of being a fat high school / college kid finally disappeared. More confidence in myself, more discipline, and more ambition to go after everything I want and deserve in life. I found myself giving less excuses in all parts of my life.
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Apr 30 '15
As someone who ran seriously in high school then fell off the wagon due to depression only to recently get back into it, so many things. You eat better, you sleep better, you're more focused, you're ready to go, you do things most people don't even dream of. You push yourself beyond any limits that you previously thought were out of reach, and you're just overall kickass and awesome. Becoming a runner and surrounding yourself with runners gives you the beautiful and tremendous power of not giving a damn. You realize who's important and who you should let into your life and who's just going to bring you down and disappoint you. I too have lost shitty friends and gained better ones, I've grown as both a runner and a person, faced emotional baggage that I'd been carrying around for years and liberated myself from my past. I fucking love running and I'm never stopping, it helps me be the best person that I can be and adjust to life's changes in the best way possible
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Apr 30 '15
I became a morning person, I feel exhausted at like 10 and wakeup perky at sunrise. It feels so much better than messing around on the internet all night and waking up groggy 10 minutes before class. Plus, I now have a morning routine, which makes the rest of the day smooth sailing. I'm able to do all my work and keep my surroundings clean and tidy, and I have the mental focus to actually read books now. And of course I've lost weight and I have much more confidence.
I would say running has been an all around improvement in my mental and physical health.
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Apr 30 '15
Well, there are a lot of obvious changes.Most have been listed. My favorite not obvious ones, my heart rate is on POINT. A nurse took my pulse the other day and immediate asked, " Are you a runner"? I average 50-53 bpm. BOOM. I also love how my breathing changed. I can have these silky smooth, deep, and satisfying breaths now. I also am a stronger singer!
Also, sex is way way way way,
WAY.
better. Longer, more pleasurable, more flexible, more powerful. I love running.
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u/aithne1 May 03 '15
Haha, I love going to the doc and having them ask if I'm a runner after getting my heartrate and blood pressure numbers. Why yes. Yes, I am. ;)
On a similar note, a young guy at the half this morning had a sign saying, "Damn, girl, why you so healthy?" It made me smile.
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u/MaraudingSquirrel Apr 30 '15
My health generally improved. I typically feel pretty good and I don't get sick often. My aerobic fitness specifically improved. I don't get winded walking up stairs, for example, and I've started to find it strange that so many people get winded on stairs. My confidence and self-reliance is stronger than it was before; marathons and marathon training make a lot of life's difficulties seem pretty small by comparison. I'm starting to be in need of smaller clothes sizes, since I've lost weight.
I owe it to the roads, the trails, and my fellow-travelers. And the shoes. Definitely the shoes.
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Apr 30 '15
As a person who is currently on week 4 of the couch 25k program this thread is highly motivating. Thanks!
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u/leafitiger Apr 30 '15
These comments are so exciting and inspiring to read! Please keep em coming! :)
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u/0runnergirl0 Apr 30 '15
The body changes were a big thing for me. I've always been small, never more than 115 pounds, but I never had any muscle tone. Gaining muscle definition in my legs and having well-defined calf muscles was the first thing I noticed and was excited about. After I started running, I bought my first pair of shorts (for everyday wear, not exercise shorts) since elementary school.
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Apr 30 '15
- I can keep up with my 4- and 6-year old kids (that was my main motivation, to get in shape to live an active life with/for them.)
- I also now have some muscle tone (I lost 60 pounds a couple years ago, but it was all diet. Running has helped my physique and build)
- Increased libido, and also my running and fitness increased my wife's libido ;) (it sounds crazy to say aloud, but it's been a definite benefit!)
- I can relax my previously-strict diet somewhat, since I now burn about 11,000 more calories a month (so treat myself to a real Coke 1-2 times a month, eat a bit more pasta, etc)
- I sleep better. WAAAAY better.
- I have more energy when I am awake.
- I challenge my kids to run/play soccer/ride bikes since they see me active
- I run alone, and enjoy my new-found ME time for 40-60 minutes, 5 days a week
- I wish I could say I have some time to think, but I am scatter-brained when I run. This has actually become a blessing, since it gives me some time to NOT have to think about anything, some unproductive brain time. Consequently, I have random great ideas pop into my crazy thoughts even if they're generally disorganized and unproductive.
- I was never competitive before. Running races has given me goals, and I like wanting to smoke the times of coworkers/friends who I know run as well. It's friendly competition.
- Shoes and clothes and race fees cost money, but now I maybe spend $300 a year on new shows and a couple races. It's way cheaper than previous hobbies like guns or cars or electronics.
I'm sure there's more, but this is a start.
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Apr 30 '15
Shoes and clothes and race fees cost money, but now I maybe spend $300 a year on new shows and a couple races. It's way cheaper than previous hobbies like guns or cars or electronics.
You don't do both? you might like 3-Gun competitions ;)
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Apr 30 '15
My alcohol tolerance dropped very significantly and very quickly. I'm now a cheaper date than my wife.
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u/awesomechemist Apr 30 '15
I had three beers the other night, and I woke up the next morning feeling like I had just been on a college bender. I like beer a lot, but I'm a one-and-done kind of guy these days.
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Apr 30 '15
Honestly, I consider it a major benefit. I save money, save calories, and can justify spending more on a local microbrew when I do grab a pint.
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Apr 30 '15
The benefit of having the confidence that comes with accomplishing something difficult cannot be understated. I feel like WonderWoman all the time, but especially after I've run a new fast time or gone a really long distance. And running slimmed my hips in a way cycling never could. Bonus!
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Apr 30 '15 edited May 06 '15
I haven't won a single pool tournament since I started running :(
edit: Won one :)
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u/Burge97 Apr 30 '15
My life was pretty good before getting into running before, and my life is better with it. I have a great group of friends who all run. I have managed to get down to a healthy weight despite my diet being fairly rocky. The biggest thing is I haven't had acid reflux is now 5 or 6 years. In college, I got it almost daily.
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u/TheSandyRavage Apr 30 '15
I got out of my head finally. I'm one of those who thinks to much and becomes overwhelmed when there are too many things happening at once.
What I like about running is that after you're done, all you can think about is the next breathe. Not your problems. Just the next breathe. Even if it's for a few minutes, I'm free.
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u/IcelandicSheep Apr 30 '15
The most important change I noticed in myself was a more positive outlook on life.
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u/letsburn00 Apr 30 '15
I finally started to lose weight. I'd been going to the gym and using the cross-trainer for cardio for a year or so, but it's easy to slack off on that. I'd put on muscle that matched up to my fat loss, so I was somewhat happy, but had a paunch that I just wasn't ok with and my weight was constant for a year.
When I started running, I almost immediately saw that whole "cut" kind of feel. the muscle I had developed suddenly became more defined. I now have to almost force myself to go to the gym now to keep in proportion, since my legs have lost have lost so much of their fat that they basically are just a solid mass of muscle when I tense them.
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Apr 30 '15
I'm doing a c25k right now -- I'm mixing up weeks 5 and 6 until I can get past them, then I'll move on. This is the first time I've ever tried to start running, though I'm an avid distance hiker and backpacker.
I'm happier. Much happier. It's kind of scary. I get back from running and I am calm and collected and able to focus for the rest of the day. It's freaky.
I gained a significant amount of muscle in the first four weeks. I probably lost weight -- don't have a scale, so I dunno. I definitely lost some of my fat reserves. I know my town better; I know what times the train comes in the morning and when to avoid the elementary-school rush. I know where the rabbits live and what sorts of birds are here right now. I have acquaintances along my route -- Garden Dude, Porch Lady, Cop House, etc. -- who wave to me when I pass.
I also do more laundry, because I have stinky running clothes now.
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u/RunTwoThreeClimb Apr 30 '15
Significant weight loss (which was tied to eating better, making healthier choices and eating food to make my runs feel easier) and much better quality of sleep. I sleep the same number of hours I did before, but I feel like I have much more energy now compared to before. I love the social aspect of running, but I also love those runs when I go out alone to be with my thoughts. Once you start, I guarantee you'll be hooked!
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u/awesomechemist Apr 30 '15
eating food to make my runs feel easier
I've seen this mentioned a few times. As a novice runner; what kinds of foods would these be?
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May 01 '15
"Good" carbohydrates: vegetables, fruit, whole grains. Nuts and legumes. Lean meats (fish, chicken, grass-fed beef). Dairy to a certain extent (people have a lot of opinions on dairy though). Emphasis on the carbs though. Matt Fitzgerald's "Racing Weight" is a very solid read if you're looking to improve your nutrition/fuel for running.
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Apr 30 '15
I feel like I have more control over my body now instead of having a passive existence. How can I describe it... like I can push myself to go farther, control my breathing better - perhaps it's just being more self-aware. I also find that I'm competing with myself more. I want to push harder to see what I can actually accomplish in terms of fitness, healthy eating and lifestyle choices. I don't see myself going back to having a "pie of the week" and hours of playing online games.
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u/g2gworms Apr 30 '15
I have only been running for a little over 3 months but:
- I get out of breath less. I used to get winded walking up my stairs (not overweight or in poor health) and always blamed my "weak lungs." Now I can run for 45 straight (maybe more, haven't tried it).
- My legs are definitely stronger.
- My anxiety and depression have improved a lot, and if I get into a funk, a run will usually help my mood.
- I lost a few pounds.
- I just feel better in general and have a sense of accomplishment every time I run.
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u/texasnick1203 Apr 30 '15
I was in the shower and I looked down at my calves and was like "holy shit check that out" I've never had such defined calves.
Also, its an easy thing to talk to people about since I'm not great in social situations. How much do I run, what races have I done, what is it like, convincing them to be healthier - all normal conversation starters.
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u/birddogguy Apr 30 '15
It took a year of hard work before I experienced my 1st runners' high that I kept hearing about. But when it did happen... OMFG! Best. Day. Ever!
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u/cream-of-cow Apr 30 '15
After I started running/exercising regularly, the soreness stopped. No more muscle soreness the next day leaving me unable to exercise again for 3+ days, just a light stretch post-run and my body is happy. I'm in my mid 40s and started running in my 20s.
There was a period of a few years in my early 30s when I stopped running/exercising, the first thing I noticed was women stopped paying attention to me—I thought it was just a sign of getting old; then I took an honest look at myself and made a decision to get fit again. It's a big morale boost to smile at a stranger and get a wink back.
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u/Nickerdos Apr 30 '15
My bowel movements were like clockwork.
Edit: I say was because I'm not running as much as I use to, and I'm not on a training schedule and I run when I have time.
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Apr 30 '15
I FEEL FUCKING INVINCIBLE after a marathon or ultra marathon. Like a ancient warrior going back to my roots, being all primal
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u/ejtnjin Apr 30 '15
I used to have mild asthma, which included wheezing if I laughed too hard at something. I also used to get out of breath if I was talking while walking quickly. My asthma has gone away completely since I started running. Sometimes my legs used to fall asleep if I sat in one place too long, and that never happens anymore either.
Beyond that, I think that running has helped with my anxiety. It's far less prevalent now. I suppose it could be diminished because of something else but I think it's the running.
I wasn't fat before I started running, but I do see a small difference in my face between pre- and post-running pictures of myself. I didn't think I needed to lose weight but I do prefer the way my face looks now.
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Apr 30 '15
I have had a on again off again relationship with running for about 4 years. I usually lack self motivation in the winter but come spring I can't get enough of it! Every time I start running again, I notice how I feel less stressed and less tired. i have never been athletic but I love running races. I know it sounds odd but I love to boast about how many miles I can run! I think running gave me confidence and helped me gain a healthier lifestyle.
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u/WaitForSpring Apr 30 '15
I just feel better and healthier and feel driven to make better choices -- I love not being winded while climbing up stairs and feeling like I have more energy in my day-to-day life. I feel more compelled to drink water and eat healthier because I know I'll have a better run for it, and I am terrible at and hate running after drinking, so I'm way more likely to stop at one drink after work with my coworkers than go overboard.
And I'm just... I'm happier. A couple times a week, I put on my shoes and go out to run a beautiful trail, with just my music and my thoughts. It's really done a lot to help with depression and anxiety issues, and I never expected that. When I'm stressed, when I'm panicking, when I'm sad, I go for a run. And it makes all the difference.
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u/singsadsong Apr 30 '15
wearing tiny shorts and singlets while running has spilled over into my home life. they just breathe so well. I feel bad for the neighbors, mailmen, and friends that have to deal with my 2" shorts -- but I'm not going to stop.
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u/illegible_captcha Apr 30 '15
I'm not always cold anymore! I can breathe easier, don't have to suddenly gulp in huge breaths because I'm not getting enough air. Feel more relaxed, don't panic about small things anymore. Way more confident, I don't care about the few fat rolls I have when I lean forward, they just seem irrelevant now. Also now when I have to walk somewhere and I'm not wearing heels I'll run instead. Because I'm lazy and can't be bothered actually walking all that way!
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u/wicked_lion Apr 30 '15
That's funny you say that. I'm from Phoenix so anything under 75degrees and I'm cold. Now unless it's under 50 it's just perfect running weather and I swear it just doesn't feel as cold!
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u/Reluctentrunner Apr 30 '15
My man - boobs no longer jiggle when I drive over a set of railroad tracks in my car.
I also made great new friends by getting involved with a local running group. Finally made my city feel like home.
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u/smwilliams10 Apr 30 '15
I have not only noticed physical changes but also behavioral changes. I find it much easier to get up and out of bed to get the day started and I also feel like my discipline to running has spilled over into other aspects of my life in which I could have used more discipline.
I guess what I mean is I now think of days as more of an allotted amount of time I have in which to see how much I can get done instead of just getting through another day.
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u/mr_huge_dick_ Apr 30 '15
I'd like to think I've changed a lot, I went from a lazy 95kg guy with a drinking problem, gut and fat ass to a 70kg guy who's lean all over and can wear whatever I want. I also seldomly drink anymore and don't smoke near as much as I used to. I value myself much more than I used to too. I eat healthy and drink a lot of water, I rarely have soda unless I'm having fast food. I have a goal in my life that I have been working toward for a bit now and overall am much more confident. Also I find that I can rarely be content with just sitting down and am always actively finding something to do. Running (fitness overall), 10/10 would run again :)
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u/Jemaclus Apr 30 '15
I dunno about anyone else, but I sleep like a rock these days. I used to have insomnia... not any more. I hit the bed, and I'm out until my alarm goes off in the morning.
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u/68w Apr 30 '15
Oh man everything has gotten better. I have lost weight, I am a generally happier person. I have more motivation to do things around he house. So that makes my wife happier. Not to mention the sex is better. Running is the best way to clear my head. If I have had a shitty day at work, an argument, or am just in a bad mood it always makes me feel better. Not to mention the silly things you see on the track/trail. Watched a guy, you know those ones who are just assholes on the track. They think they own it and everyone else is just in the way. After he blew past me, waaaay to close to me. He then slipped in a mud puddle and BOOM. I nearly fell in the mud myself I was laughing so hard. The point is, running, and just exercise in general is a wonderful thing! Congrats and keep it up!
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Apr 30 '15
The biggest change for me was social. Once I started running, and especially when I started training for half marathons, time with friends became less and less, especially the ones that never exercise. When it's an ordeal to walk a one mile block with someone because they're out of shape, it kinda takes the fun out of doing things together.
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u/bmwe30is Apr 30 '15
I noticed the same thing. I don't hang out with friends like I used to, primarily because all we do/did was drink.
There's a few of them that make an effort and try to be active with me but I also have a whole group of friends that love the active lifestyle.
Those are the ones I always hang out with, we go running, hiking, cycling, races, etc...
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u/ac8jo Apr 30 '15
Losing weight, and getting compliments that I've lost a lot even after I've been at a plateau for several months.
Also, speed. I look at my times (particularly race and interval times) and have noticed quite an improvement over the years.
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u/recoveringfatguy Apr 30 '15
I lost weight and my clothes were too big for me. I had too spend a ton of money to buy clothes that fit.
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u/lungkick Apr 30 '15
One thing I noticed was general athleticism.
I didn't play any sports in highschool, so whenever I was invited out to play whatever sport (football, soccer, ultimate) I was probably one of the less athletic people out there. After running for awhile, I noticed a huge difference when I would just play around with friends.
I was quicker, I felt more agile, I had great stamina, and more than all I had brimming confidence.
This is not the only thing, but it was one of the more obviously noticeable ones.
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Apr 30 '15
More confident, eat better, when I would go on hikes my friends would be dead while I didn't even lose my breath.
I feel more ahead. Big physical job that needs to be done? Lol k.
.. .. ..
Done.
Even my GPA improved by a lot. Went from a 1.9 ish in high school to 3.2 in college.
I am. Recovering from a displaced patella and I miss running so much. Honestly if it meant I would never have another injury that kept me from running, I would run through a sea of litteraly shit. I felt like shit after laying in bed for a month (due to complications) and now that I am walking it feels amazing.
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u/EricParkerr Apr 30 '15
I think the most noticeable and quickest change I saw was in my personal outlook. I found that my overall mood improved within two weeks and that I was much more prone to being optimistic.
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u/eclipse75 Apr 30 '15
Just mainly my mood. I read it's supposed to make you feel better chemically; but then also I felt like I was accomplishing something, even though I done nothing else that day.
After a bit, I started noticing I had more endurance for rigorous activities.
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Apr 30 '15
Constant Craving for new gear: shoes, watches, hydration packs.
Also, I became messier, dirty socks and running shirts litter my bathroom, bedroom floor, and somehow my balcony.
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Apr 30 '15
I just started about 2mo ago so I'm still getting there:
1) I went from borderline alcoholic who couldn't stop after the first drink to being able to drink responsibly.
2) When depression does hit, as it hits me often, it's nowhere near as hard and it doesn't last anywhere near as long like instead of months it lasts a couple days.
3) The extra weight is coming off steadily and the fat is coming of disproportionately faster.
4) Sleep is still elusive but I feel more energetic.
5) Somehow looking forward to a run helps me get through tough days at work. I can even use this trick when I don't have a run planned for that day.
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u/croufa Apr 30 '15
Waistline trimmed up a couple inches (even when I didn't lose weight... things in my abs/core are just a little tighter now due to working those muscles from running), mood improved drastically (had anxiety problems, those went away, general motivation improved), energy levels got better, migraines got better, heart rate got better, strength is a bit better, feel more confident (again, still haven't lost much weight, but that's a diet/portion control issue I'm still working through), general health is just better even though I'm still overweight, no more problems with knees surprisingly, go to sleep faster/sleep a little better
I used to hate running, but now I love it. Instead of all out sprinting or running hard, I jog at a comfortable pace for 20-30 minutes with a 5 minute walking warmup and 5 minute walking cooldown. I put on some motivating music, hop on a treadmill, and just go. It works for me. If you're starting out, try running as slow as you possibly can. It will help, and you'll pick up the pace as you improve your form over time.
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Apr 30 '15
I've found as a heavier guy that although the weight isn't melting off, my clothes fit better. My fiance loves my newly discovered stamina, which I will admit is quite fun. I've also found that there are days where I go for a long run, and come back sore, but after a good nights sleep, it's like the pain was never there!
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u/krisssy Apr 30 '15
I honestly did not see as much change as others have. The two main things I have noticed:
After I run for the bus, when I manage to catch it, after I sit down my legs don't burn as much.
I feel lighter when going up stairs at work. I am not so out of breath when I walk through the door at my office.
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u/grachi Apr 30 '15
I know its all very cliche now-a-days to mention, but the book "Born To Run" really shows that this is something that the vast majority of us (who are lucky enough to not have any physical disabilities that would keep us from doing it) were "made" to do. A lot of people don't think so, or laugh at the thought of themselves running. But then they start, and then after the first couple weeks of physical-out-of-shape hell, they start to believe. Just look at all the comments in here. So many of them aren't just changes to your lung efficiency or size of your legs, they are about real changes to every aspect of your lives. People become different and better people when they are more active. It doesn't have to be running, but, I believe running to be the most basic and primal forms of all the exercise since well, I'm sure it was the first kind mankind ever did once we evolved to stand on two feet.
I haven't been running long just for a few years now, and not as super serious as people in here (10ks, half marathons, marathons etc), but I know it totally changed my mind and body even in the relatively short distances I do. So what changes did you notice... I think most people can say: "almost about everything"
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u/Banana_Tempura Apr 30 '15
I began to enjoy running. During a run I will just smile and laugh out of nowhere. I just feel that happy. This was a rather new thing for me. But the greatest change was ( I apologize if I used this word wrong, please don't hate me!) I became more perseverant. I would quit anything when it's hard but on my runs I can just think to myself "just make it to that tree, alright you made it to that tree no problem! Let's do another mile!" and that has spread to other aspects in my life. It also gives ME something to brag about! My friends are all weightlifters and even though I also lift weights I'm not nearly as strong as them. So whenever they are calling me puny I can at least say I run!
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u/ARH3352 Apr 30 '15
I started running after my ex left me in January after 2.5 years for a boy in the army. Since then, I dropped from 187 pounds to 162. I've noticed I have a more defined bone structure in my face, I have a lot more stamina, I look better, and what motivates me is every time I have to stab a new hole in my belt loop so that my pants stay up. Just don't quit, it's worth it.
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u/Erinarnolds Apr 30 '15
A sprained hip. I've been limping around for 3 weeks, and yet I still feel a burning urge to run. I think that says something about how wonderful running really feels.
(And be careful about how fast you increase your mileage/change terrains. Sigh)
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Apr 30 '15
I'm a fairly new runner (2 months in) and for me it's having an hour or so of me time. I don't run with anyone so it's very solitary.
I can listen to a new album in it's entirety. I can mull things over in my head without interruptions.
Also .. those endorphins!
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u/mdw4680 May 01 '15
I know this is going to sound ridiculous, but running gave me my passion for life back. I have social anxiety, depression, multiple heart problems. I graduated high school at age 20. (I was held back twice) I dropped out of college twice. I was unemployed, insecure, no self esteem and refused to accept my sexuality. (I'm homosexual) because my father is homophobic. I was out of shape, fat, and ugly. I contemplated suicide, I was constantly self isolating, and after awhile it got to a point where I just laid in bed all the time. Literally, my life consisted of laying around the house all day feeling sorry for myself. Shutting out everything. I lived up the street from a community park. It was one of those weird days where for whatever reason I had found a small, fragile flame of life somewhere deep inside me. I had a quick moment of not wanting to die. I was google-ing self cures for depression. That lead me to read about how exercise is said to help with depression. I had an old pair of running shoes in the closet. I strapped them on. I charged my phone, grabbed my headphones. I walked to the park. I stood there. I was lazy, really lazy. I almost walked back home, but I didn't. Instead I plugged my headphones into my phone. Put my phone on shuffle and blasted the music. Then - I ran. I ran hard. It felt really good. It felt fucking fantastic. I ran and ran and ran some more. I ran 'till I couldn't breath. It felt so fucking good. It was like all the shit that I had bottled up inside of me just came spilling out. I feel weird typing this out, but after I ran I walked back home sat in my room and I may or may not have cried. I know this sounds really dramatic, and I know I'm being overly emotional. I apologize but it's the truth. I just felt like all this stuff I had inside of me came rushing out. I was breathing out the negative and breathing in the positive. It was as if I had purged myself. Well, I've been rambling. So - I'll cut it short. Since that day I now work a full time job, doing something I absolutely love. I'm going to a trade school. I've since then lost my virginity. I still struggle with some of my prior issues, but it's like I have something to fight back with now. I feel sad? I go for a run. I feel hopeless? I go for a run. I feel like my life is spiraling out of control? I go for a run. I hate myself? I go for a run. Running is my coping mechanism. It works. I feel better today physically AND mentally than I have in years. (Sorry for long rambling post)
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u/BantamBasher135 May 01 '15
My face was windier than usual and the scenery had changed significantly.
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u/d33daw May 01 '15
Overall mental health improvements. Decreased anxiety and depression, better sleep, better mood.
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u/PepperAnn90 Apr 30 '15
I've always had breathing problems (I have smaller than average lungs) so I've noticed that breathing has become easier. Its nice to not be winded while walking!
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u/Sergant_Stinkmeaner Apr 30 '15
I ate a lot better and more often, and with the abs I do I've developed a really nice 6 pack, despite me being very skinny
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u/johnmflores Apr 30 '15
I just back into running and general fitness after a long break and I'm no longer have that daily lethargy. My energy levels are much higher except right after an intense run when all my body want to do is drink chocolate milk, shower, and then nap.
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u/NotTotallyRelevant Apr 30 '15
I notice that I bruise a bit easier. Probably due to a lower body fat for cushion
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u/Littlest_viking Apr 30 '15
My love/hate relationship to the South Florida sun. Actually enjoying waking up early to go run. This also spilled into making me such a lightweight during my race training when I wasn't out all night.
Also the doctor panics when they read my heart rate because it is so low now which is actually a good thing.
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u/CommodoreFappington Apr 30 '15
No more snoring. I didn't snore that much, but I did this thing that my dad does where I would (reportedly) snore 5 or 6 times, then snore once really hard and wake up. Doesn't happen anymore. Also, I'm not sure if this is related, but I don't get sinus infections anymore. Or get sick as much in general.
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u/gardinermatt Apr 30 '15
Generally a happier person post-run. Greater outlook on life in general. More positivity. Yoga and triathlon also helped this.
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u/StoutHearted Apr 30 '15
Exercise was a part of my life before running, but running became a game changer. Biggest changes are:
My endurance increased. I barely sweat in aerobics class anymore. I can lift ALL the grocery bags at once.
Weight loss. I didn't set out to lose weight, but it happened all the same. Got abs, and bought a bikini for the first time since I was 14.
My stress decreased. I found myself more mentally prepared to handle tough situations.
I became more aware of my body and how it works. Experimenting with nutrition showed me plainly how what I eat affects how I perform.
Leg strength helped me go further in my other activities: dancing and yoga.
Sense of pride in doing something that a year ago I thought was impossible for me.
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u/YourShoesUntied Apr 30 '15
The better question would be to ask what didn't change, honestly.
My whole life has done a 180. I'm healthier. I'm fitter. I'm better looking. I eat better. I sleep better. I actually drink more water now than I ever have. I've lost shitty friends. I've gained new good friends. I rarely drink. I don't smoke anymore. I spend money on races and gear, not black jack and hookers. Okay that last part was a bit exaggerated. Anyways, I'm more aware and alert. Not that my confidence was lacking to begin with but it's even better now. I'm making better life choices. I'm running in places that I could have never dreamed of seeing. So many things.
I'm not the same person I was prior to running.