Pain today, punchlines tomorrow

In recent events and to the knowledge of most of you, I have started running. A way to get fit and in shape, take care of my health, but also a way to keep me focussed, relaxed and motivated. Some other reasons include not being a couch potato and getting outside a little more.

Because of safety concerns and many weird and wonderful things, I had to find a safe space where I can do this – run. Not for my life but for fun instead. I have many pages and people I follow i=on Instagram and Facebook about running and motivation and losing weight while becoming the best version of yourself, and I must admit, I feel guilty when I see these posts and not doing something about it. The guilt was motivation enough for me to start somewhere.

I have a simple plan which includes running, walking, core and strength training and then pushing yourself a little harder each week. First week is done and I feel fantastic! Energy wise and motivation wise. But this 30 odd year old body is not used to these things any more, and I wish I had a flip switch to get my 20-year-old body back.

The pain is also part of my weird motivation because it is a reminder that “I did something”, “I am getting there”, “I will feel better soon”. And so I push forward. While the pain I feel now will subside at some point, I am also reminded that the pain will be a punchline tomorrow.

My legs hurt, but if I can do it, you can do it too!

I started running at 35, I felt like dying every time, but here I am!

My back hates me today, but I will be stronger tomorrow!

I run to burn the crazy off! – Not my words, but a meme I saw this week.

Brilliant punchlines to start a running club, isn’t it? And it is not my intention to start a club but maybe I will run more often. And maybe be fit enough to start cycling again. Something that I love and that I still want to do, if and when I can fit it into my schedule because it means longer hours on the bicycle. Running doesn’t need as long as cycling.

That is something else life throws at you sometimes, lemons. The first lemon, I love cycling but I need to take care of my family first. The second lemon, I hate running but let’s give it a try and just maybe I will like it, turns out, I do. Lemons have a way of spoiling the fun, but you can change that!

Take the lemons and cut them, squeeze them and add gin and tonic or salt and tequila! Sip at this dramatically and show the lemons that you are the boss! We only live once, so make it a party, spread the snacks and bring the cake, invite your friends and share your funny lemon-like stories.

Remember to get sunlight but also protect yourself against the sun. Remember to drink water but also not too much, there is a possibility of drowning… You are basically a houseplant with more complicated emotions.

Wait a minute – houseplants don’t have to exercise?