Why are you doing it? (Page 4)

I started running because I wanted to lose a few pounds. I ran my 1st 5K cause I love to compete. I ran more 5K's to set new PR's. I ran my 1st HM to prove I could do it.  I ran my 1st marathon cause I wanted to conquer the (at that time) ultimate distance.  I ran another to set a PR. I ran a few more for the experience. I moved to a trail marathon to increase the challenge. I borrowed a bike and did a duathlon (1st in AG) to see how it felt and for the competition. I spent time in the pool to prepare for my 1st triathlon.  Then I was hooked. Did a HIM a couple months later and was even more hooked.  Did a few more tri's and truly love the competition and the training. Now that the season is over, I had to step up my running to get a marathon in before the end of the year.

 All in all, I love the comraderie, I love the training, I love racing, I love competition, and most importantly...I love how I feel!!!

I know I am replying  a bit late, but saw this post and had to reply.

I turned 40 in November, there are so many things happening to my body that I can't control (grey hair, graves disease and the lovely graves eye disease that goes with it, skin changes and I was getting heavy and the list goes on)...... I was really getting down and pretty sad.

I figure this was a way to contol some part of my life.  To go against what has been happening to me and try to take control of what time seems to be trying to take away.  I have not done a tri yet, but training for one in March 2009.  I have a 4 year old daughter, and for the first time I can run with her, and keep up.  So I figure I can get my figure back, color that grey hair and at least feel better about myself ! lol

It's cheaper than therapy (okay this was my reason when I started, it's starting to get a little more expensive).

Honestly, I'm able to work out my issues or frustrations over a swim, bike or run and tend to be in a better mood overall. I'm thankful that it's that easy.

The best response I've read so far is to ask him why he doesn't.

it started as a way to manage stress after a horrible day at work.  Turned into a passion/obsession.  Not sure where it crossed the line into he latter  

Seriously...I was obese seveal years ago, started losing weight and thought about tris but had no experience in ANY of the disciplines.  Also quickly dismissed the idea as absurd as a40+ yr old with some health issues....

Lost 65 lbs.  Started running, yes it was after a horrible shift at work (ERRN at the time).  Felt like Rocky on the steps after a 2 mile run at 15 min/mile.  Kept looking forward to my running time....built to my first 10K...

Found out about BT and learned more about triathlon....signed up for a sprint...did it in a downpour and still had a blast.  Signed up for a second spint with open water before I ever did the first one.  Still loved it.  Officially hooked.

My second year in tri, I consider myself more a triathlete than runner but half marathons are my favorite run distance...followed by 10K's.

Why do I do it?  Because it challenges me to keep the weight off, look better than either of my sisters (and share clothes with my teenage daughters).  I have made a lot of fiends and seen some cool stuff by being part of multisport. 

Because if I don't, Wingsfan will taunt me mercilessly.  And, I'm just unable to rise above it. 

(Plus, I want live long enough to see great grandkids someday)

Note to daughter: NO RUSH!!! 

My moms dad died of a massive heartattack when he was 42 years old.

My mom had a heart attack when she was 42.

I am 25 and have great test results but a HDL of 21.  (Thats bad)

I dont want to die yet, so here I am. Exercise is one of the only ways to raise HDL.  Long endurance exercise.

I get it from my mom. Shes always running and setting new PR's but always seems to be competing against her body seeing just how far or how much better she can get...

 Seeing that inspires me to see how good I can get and how far my body will allow me to push it!

Side note: also a momma's boy