#IssaShars: 4 Awesome Things I Learned Thanks To Running! #NRC

When I was losing weight last 2014, I was addicted to the treadmill and swimming pool in our condo's gym. You would often see me at running at least 3k to follow with a 500m swim. But I stopped in February 2015, usually running and exercising once or twice a week as a way to get back on track but to no avail. 

Credits to Grazielle Cabaltera of Nike PH

Thanks to Nike Run Club (and one of my best friends Abby!), I was able to try again after two years of inconsistent workouts and runs! After a little over two months of running at least twice a week, I learned a few things along the way.

1. It's Going To Take Time

Credits to Grazielle Cabaltera of Nike PH

It will take time not only building your endurance but to also love the night runs. When I began running again last September 5, 2017, I was absolutely exhausted. Seeing colors, stopping halfway, everything that I used to feel when I started working out for the first time. It took about three more runs before I successfully finished a 3k run again, and probably another two before I could finish one HIIT run without being tempted to sleep in the park with no care right after.

So yes, when you begin something (sports, hobbies, work, or what), don't expect to magically become a marathon runner in two days. Give it one, two weeks, and you'll be amazed at how much you have improved from the day you started.

I remember dying and walking half the time during my first 3k run. Now, I am able to run 5k straight and still have the energy to smile! 

Tip: The key here is to start off slow and to learn what pace you're comfortable with. Push yourself, but avoid straining those muscles. Once you know your pace, start setting goals and slowly increasing your speed and distance every week or two. 

2. Shame Does Not (And Should Not) Exist

Credits to Grazielle Cabaltera of Nike PH

When I tell my friends to join me, the first thing I usually hear isn't regarding their schedule, but that "they do not know how to run."

What I learned from Nike Run Club is that if you've got a body, then you're an athlete. Whether you are a beginner with no prior experience or a hardcore runner, there is no judgment or embarrassment. What I loved about running and training with Nike was the fact that the Pacers and Coaches will guide you all the way. You'll be able to get some awesome tips from them on how to breathe, run, and even warm up. Plus, you'll be cheered on and that really gets me going! It's why I always want to workout or run with friends because you'll be able to witness each others' progress while having someone by your side to laugh and support.

My first few runs were the most difficult. Thanks to friends and Pacers, I was able to not only become encouraged with their cheers, but I also got some great insights on patterning my breathing and how to run without getting weighing myself down.

Tip: Land on your top part of the foot and not the heels to make running easy and light. Don't forget to move your arms and pattern your breathing. NEVER forget to breathe!

3. I CAN Run In The Rain!

Credits to Grazielle Cabaltera of Nike PH

All of the most memorable runs I love to talk about would be running in the rain! In fact, the best hike was Mt. Batulao with my mom since we both conquered (and survived) it during the extreme weather conditions. 

Running under the rain can be quite tricky since you have some obstacles along the way, but it also taught me to keep going for the finish line no matter what seems to stop you. Whether rain or shine (as long as it isn't a full-blown typhoon!), I run and I give my all. 

Tip: But of course, safety first! When running in the rain, make sure that you watch out for puddles and slippery roads. Pack some extra clothes and change immediately. Also, hydrate yourself and take a looong bath once you get home to avoid getting sick. Fortunately, I never got sick no matter how many times I'm under the rain. :p

4. Eat, Eat, Eat!

A post-workout meal at Frank & Dean, BGC! Their chicken and waffle (395 PHP) is AMAZING.

This is probably one of the things I find hard to deal with. As someone who is recovering from an eating disorder, it can get quite difficult knowing how to fuel up for a run or dealing with the "guilt" of eating a lot right after.

But yes, your body needs the RIGHT food before and after a run to keep yourself energized and to fill yourself up with the essential nutrients to continue reaching your goals! I still have some problems with eating healthy (hassle having to make myself some food when going home at 11PM!), but I hope to begin meal-prepping to save time and keep my lifestyle in check. 

Eat up before and after the run, but keep it balanced. Two doughnuts is NOT a good pre-workout snack. I learned that the hard way. Hahahuhu. 

Tip: If you plan to eat about three hours before a run, go for carbs like oatmeal. If you are eating right before a run, something light like a banana is best. Avoid eating too heavy right before the run, but don't go on an empty stomach. ALTHOUGH, this will depend on you (as I work best on an empty stomach for long-distance runs or with a banana when it's HIIT). Work what's best for your body, just avoid restricting or going overboard with the calories.

Needless to say, I now LOVE to run and have grown addicted to it. The running high is no joke, and I have never felt happier or more accomplished right after a run or workout. I've witnessed tremendous changes in both my mood and endurance in just a span of two months, and it isn't the calories that keep me going anymore, but the way running makes me feel. It's had me push myself and taught me things that can be used for other aspects of life, from work or play. 

If you want to begin running, join NRC, they've got runs in BGC every Tuesday and Thursday from 7:34PM onwards (they also have runs in UP for students). Simply download the NRC app and register from there. They begin their runs again in 2018. (P.S. This isn't a sponsored post, I'm just very thankful for Nike Run Club and Nike Training Club for teaching me how to set my goals and become a stronger woman, physically and mentally.

Here's to hoping I can run 21k in 2018! If you've got any plans on running as well, hit me up. I would love to help you out. Soon, I'll be writing about the different areas to run when in Manila. ;)