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DEL.ICIO.USHow did you get Hooked on Running???
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Whether you’re an elite runner or more of a slowpoke like me, one thing rings true for everyone.
We all love it.
John Tackett, 51, started running nearly five years ago as a way to lose weight. Now he’s 140 pounds lighter after running seven marathons and six half marathons, he says.
This year’s ING is training for when Tackett runs the Boston Marathon in April.
“I was always a large guy,” says Tackett, 51, who weighed more than 300 pounds. “I [started] jogging around the neighborhood as part of the diet.”
At first the East Point resident was out of breath, but these days Tackett, who now weighs 170, concludes his runs by racing his dog back to the house, he said.
Along with those neighborhood runs back in 2004, Tackett built up miles on the treadmill. In a year’s time he worked his way from running around the block to finishing the Peachtree Road Race and completing the 2005 Atlanta Marathon.
But it was the half marathon at the 2005 Museum of Aviation Foundation run at Warner Robbins that gave Tackett, his first runners’ high.
“It was about mile 11 at the back of the airbase and I was like ‘how tranquil is this’ ” he said.
He was hooked.
Many of you have blogged about your recent or upcoming marathons. What led you to your first marathon or half marathon?
Shonda, another avid runner, said by email that she just kind of fell into her first half marathon in 2007.
She wrote: “At the encouragement of a friend I signed up for the ING half marathon last year even though I’d never run a race, not even a 5K! It took me 3 plus hours to finish, but it opened the floodgates.”.
Since then Shonda says she’s run five half marathons. And she’s training for Chicago’s full marathon in October.
What’s your story? How did you get hooked on running?
MORE: State of the Art Marathon Training. USA Fit/Team Spirit Active Trainer. Peachtree Road Race. Road Rules. ING Georgia Marathon.
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Comments
By In Training
March 13, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this
I have a love/hate relationship with running. As much as I enjoy it, it totally bums me out when I have a bad run. Ran 6 miles tuesday and felt great, ran 3 yesterday and thought it would be the end of my running! But, nothing feels better than to finish up a run.
By midnight runner
March 13, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this
I had the worst 16 miler of my life in SW Florida on Tuesday. But, I will lace up my shoes and hit the pavement today for another 8.5 miles. I have been running long distance for 14 years now. It started when I went to college and I have been hooked ever since.
By John
March 13, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this
I started running in 1974 (I was 14) to get in shape for the wrestling team. I hated wrestling actually but discovered I loved running, so it was an easy progression to the track team..I wasn’t really suited for middle distance though…it was the long runs that I really enjoyed and was good at. It wasn’t all about competition but I did like racing. I did my first marathon as a freshman in college and went on to run 8 more including The Boston Marathon (one of the most memorable experiences of my life). I wasn’t a world class runner but I was decent enough to get first place in one of them.
But to run fast you have to run a lot of miles…I thought I’d train like that forever but reality set in when I had to make a living and work 40 to 50 hours a week. I kept up the training for about a year but soon realized all I was doing was working and running..and running can be a lonely pastime..it had really started to affect me..and I had other important things in my life to do, so my competitive career came to an end at that time.
But I still love running and still do it after all these years. I do the occasional 10k and maybe a half marathon but just for fun.
Most of my running now is to keep my sanity (and yes, to keep my waistline from growing)…I enjoy being alone with my thoughts, and just being out in the world.
And I have to say that I have a lot of admiration for the Kenyan that can run a 2:05 marathon, but I equally admire the runner that is over 40, who works full time, manages kids and spouse, yet still gets out there and puts in enough miles to qualify for Boston. Hats off to John Tackett.
By The O-Gee
March 13, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this
i got hooked on running the same way i got hooked on crystal meth: nude smoking.
By Karen
March 13, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this
I fell in love with running after I gave up on my pricey, yet boring gym membership. I bought a pair of good running shoes and set out around neigborhood half-walking, half-jogging. My stamina gradually improved, I felt amazing and looked better as well. I’ve been running 10Ks and half-marathons ever since. This year I’m entering my first marathon!
By JE
March 13, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this
What timing! My soon to be 54 year old knee is killing me today from running yet I will run again tonight. Call me crazy. My wife does all the time.
By Adrianne
March 13, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this
JE: I’m so familiar with knee problems. (One of my favorite movie lines is ‘my knees are as old as I am.’ from An Affair to Remember). Anyway,I digress… I’m not a pusher so I DON’T recommend this, BUT glucosamine pills have worked wonders for me. And I’m only taking one third of the recommended dosage.
By newbie
March 13, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this
This is a bit off-topic, but I could really use some input from the seasoned runners. It’s a little embarassing to have to ask, but I figure all of you were beginners at some time, right? I have just started running (well, slow jogging really) after getting bored with circuit training in a gym. I can already feel that I’m getting stronger and my stamina is improving. I’m 42 so not surprised about a few aches and pains, but what surprised me is that most of them are in my upper back and neck! Legs & feet are holding up just fine. I have a suspicion that I’m doing something wrong form-wise with my upper body, or at least carrying too much tension in my back & neck when I run. Any suggestions, or can anyone recommend a good resource for more info?
By Hannah
March 13, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this
Adrianne, did you run your 20 miles this weekend? I am proud and still shocked that I ran my 20 miles! Regular running that keeps me fit and light on the scale seems to keep my eating in check- but days after running 20 miles, all I want to do is EAT! Lucky, I’m craving and eating healthy- but I feel like a bottomless pit!
By Adrianne
March 13, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this
Hi Hannah: Congrats on your 20 miles!! Following Gayle Barron’s advice I took it down to 15 miles last weekend. But it was very hilly terrain. Me too on the eating. I’m thinking about my post run meal before I even get started.
To Newbie: Hopefully bloggers will have some feedback for you but I’m looking into it too.
By hotlanta
March 13, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this
I had a great run last night afer doing lunges with ankle weights Tuesday. I run better also if I jump rope for a few minutes before the run. I got hooked on running because I don’t want my behind to hit the floor before I do when I am getting outta the bed.
By m
March 13, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this
Anyone who has problems sleeping at night should run 10 miles. I did my ING training yesterday and was asleep 2 minutes after turning out the light last night.
By Annmarie
March 13, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this
I’ve wanted to start running and entering races now for maybe 15years. I begin on the treadmill, run maybe 2 miles in about 30mins, get board and jump off. I tried that for a few weeks then end it all together. I may pick it up a few months later, but I never seem to really love it although I desire to do it.
I am envious of how some runners have this easy effortless stride that can last several miles non-stop.
Can someone offer advice in how to build that stamina?
By Beth murray
March 13, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this
I started running when I was in high school. After having two children I got back into it. I have run two marathons and three half marathons. I am training for the Country Music half marathon in April and I am running the New York marathon in November. I am definitely hooked!!
By Adrianne
March 13, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this
Ann Marie: Have you run outside? It can be much less boring. I built up my stamina by running a comfortable pace. That way I can run further. Grab your iPod and try the Silver Comet Trail. The music, the sights and the diversity of people holds my attention.
Now to Newbie: Here’s feedback, by email, from Dr. Norman Eng, a chiropractor and strength and conditioning specialist at 14th Street Chiropractic.
“Newbie, firstly I’d like to say your efforts to begin running are highly admirable and inspiring to many out there, including myself. There could be many reasons to your running pains, but I’m going to try and keep this as brief as possible. I haven’t seen your running form and the subsequent thoughts may be presumptuous, but it does sound like upper body mechanics may be causing some of your aches and pains. It may be partially caused by swinging your arms across your body, versus front to back like a pendulum motion. Try to also relax your shoulders when you go on a lengthy run. In addition, it may benefit to maintain better posture when running, as that may also relieve some tension. Also, try doing some scapular strengthening exercises in the gym, such as standing reverse flies with a dual cable machine, wall angels, or bent over flies. The key is to use lighter weight (and often no weight) with higher repetitions. Try to avoid bicep and chest exercises temporarily as that may exacerbate the condition. Best of luck with your training and keep up the hard work!”
By Jeff
March 13, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this
I am 43 and years ago I was some what of a runner, or a jogger, I was never fast at long distance. I just plugged along.
I got into weight lifting and stopped running and now I don’t do anything. I want to start running again to lose weight. I keep hearing that walking is the better way but I would rather jog. What is the best way?
By mscutie
March 13, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
I too have a love/hate relationship with running. I don’t necessarily enjoy running (ever since my knees got messed up from running almost vertical everday why serving in Korea) but it is the only form of exercise I know that works and burns fat from every part of your body. It is also the only way I have been able to get great definition in my legs - since I’m unable to do resistance exercises to said injury above. I do enjoy the rewards of running - so I do it! I must admit though I am very proud that I am able to run a 2-mile run at 16 min. Some may think that’s not that great - but I think it’s awesome!!
For the newbies - interval training is the best way to build endurance. Get out in the neighborhood or on a track and use lamp posts or trees to help guide you. Sprint at full speed from 1 lamp post to the next and then jog double that amount - then full sprint again and so forth. It works!
If you’re not running at all - try a walk run program - job for 1/4 mile - then walk 1/2 mile and build yourself up from there - jog 1/2 mile, walk 1/4 mile until you’re running 1 complete mile -and then start interval training.
By Gwinnett Educator
March 13, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this
I am SO glad that I came across this today. It is very important that I lose the weight that I am carrying on me. I have always been a big person (biggest size 26) then lost weight and got down to a size 14. I maintained until 2.5 yrs ago (pregnancy) since having my child, I have retained the weight and seemingly gained more. I was just diagnosed with mild sleep apnea and HAVE to lose this weight.
I have always and I mean ALWAYS wanted to run. I regret having not tried out for track while in high school (age 35 now) I have done 2 races (Including the Peachtree Road race) and I plan to do more.
I really dont have a question or anything like that..I just wanted to put that out there. I found these stories/comments so inspirational. When I get home, I will be rereading again. Keep up the great work and I KNOW that I will someday join the ranks of those that discussing running and their natural highs.
Peace
By Adrianne
March 13, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this
Thank you, Gwinnett Educator. Sounds like running is already in your blood. You’ll be back out there making tracks at some point!
By cg
March 13, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this
It’s all at:
http://run50miles.org
Hooked on ultramarathons.
By Belinda
March 13, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this
I got hooked on running about 5 years ago .I worked a 10 hour day and it was physical and good for me but, I wanted to feel like I would get my second wind. I also needed to lose weight and so i made my mind up. I went to the track everynight after work. I lost 100lbs within 4 months. I started out jogging and then picked up the pace. within a month I was running 2 miles. In another month I was up to 3 miles. Ihave entered numerous 5k runs and have taken first place masters and first place in my age group which is in the 50 to 54 . I am 52 and I love running and hooked on it. I am going to keep on keeping on!!
By Andrew
March 13, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this
I have been running since I graduated college. Never thought I could do a 10K and ran 15 Peachtree RR in a row. Never thought I could do a half marathon and I’ve done 6 (PR 1:31). Never thought I could do a marathon and I’ve done 4. Just believe in yourself. But there is a BIG difference in running for exercise and the passion that goes in to being “hooked.” You will know the difference when you see it. Everyone has the epiphany. I got it after my first half. I run over lunch at work and look forward all morning to the break. I work long hours and have 2 children but let’s face it. You make time for things that are important to you. No excuses. You either love it or you don’t. If you do…run always. If you don’t…find something you enjoy. But never let anyone tell you that you cannot make it b/c you can. I was one of the slow children on the sports teams but now I’m minutes from qualifying for Boston.
And I don’t care if it is 20 degrees or 100 I never, never, never run on a treadmill b/c it is boring. It may work for some…not for me. Get out, enjoy our great city and explore. I’ll be doing 12 miles tomorrow at 5:30a in Druid Hills for the ING half. A little warning. Don’t take it all so seriously. I ran the full ING last year and realized I get too competitive so I’ve cut back for now to only halves to rediscover why we run - for health and fun. At the end of the day that is what matters!! I applaud anyone who is out there trying!
By Susan
March 13, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
I never was much of an athlete in high school or college. My husband on the other hand was a long distance runner in high school and college. I could never quite understand what the thrill of running was all about. However, during my 1st pregnancy sixteen years ago, I gained 80 pounds. I began walking, then eventually running 3-5 miles 4 days per week. The weight slowly came off and I began to understand the joy of running and feeling healthy.
I have not run consistently since I first began 16 years ago. However, the enjoyment of running has stuck with me. Back then I dreamed of one day completing a marathon.
In Novemeber 2007, I contemplated running the Country Music Marathon in Nashville April 2008. Initially I had doubts that I could complete the distance since my longest run was 13 miles, ten years ago. With my families encouragement, I decided to comit to train for the marathon. There are days I am tired, the weather is cold, and I am not in the mood to run. However, once I step outside I realize how blessed I am to have the ability to run and the opportunity to improve my health.
Training and finally completing the Country Music Marathon will be a source of pride and accomplishment for me. I am grateful for this opportunity to test my endurance and perseverance.
By ATL Runner
March 13, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this
I trained for my first marathon at a point in my life when I felt quite depressed after experience what I felt were failures in various areas of my life. During this extremely low period, I decided I would train for the Chicago Marathon. I wanted to do it for myself to prove that I could set a goal and accomplish SOMETHING again. So, I followed a beginner’s training program found at www.halhigdon.com and trained for the marathon by myself. As the weekly long runs became more challenging, it was so personally fulfilling to travel a distance each week that I had never gone before. After several months of training, crossing the marathon finish line in Chicago was an incredible experience I’ll never forget. Although, perhaps it sounds a bit corny, I learned to believe in myself again and pick myself up from my life rut. Since then, I’ve completed other marathons and running has become my outlet and therapy for dealing with the challenges life presents —- as we ALL have our struggles!!!
By gary
March 13, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this
Running is by far the greatest stress release and best way to exercise no matter your age, weight or current situation. Dr. Eng brought up a great point about form while running and it has helped me alleviate some pain in my knee. I also use Monavie Active and that has helped tremendously. Keep running.
By hotlanta
March 14, 2008 7:09 AM | Link to this
Went home and got my run on last night. Did my Rocky dance, took a shower and slept like a baby. Best feeling ever.
By John Tackett
March 14, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this
I have meet many runners in the past 5 years and I am always amazed at the number of reasons why people run. But the onle underlying theme I have alwatys found is the comraderie that exist between runner. Even if I do not know the person, I feel like I have a special bond with them becuase they do run. I have made many good friends through my running and travles to races throughout the US, all becuase I am a runner. Wow, I can say that with pride, I AM A RUNNER!
Here are some interesting facts in regards to marathons (from marathonguide.com) And remember, only about 1% of the US population has ever completed a marathon, you are in an elite field.
2007 Overall Demographics Percent Avg. Age Avg.Time* Men 60.5% 40.5 4:29:52 Women 39.5% 36.5 4:59:28 All Runners 100.0% 38.9 4:41:33 *Net Time used where available
By Mike Jackson
March 14, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this
Grew up as the fat kid, always athletic/active but fat..got tired of being fat started running. I run for the feeling afterwards, no drug can match the high of finishing. The first mile or so always hurts a little but I just think of finishing and keep moving. Also, I run to reward myself ..good food, new running shoes or the “right” to relax for the rest of the day on a weekend. Every once and while I hit the “runners high” ..that alone is reason enough to put up with the first mile.
By marathonman55
March 14, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this
Having two heart attacks can change a person. During the first heart attack I asked God to let me live to watch my little girl grow up. After the second heart attack I decided to give God some help. I began a regular walking program. Later I began to add running to my routine. This evolved into a run/walk program (as per Jeff Galloway).
That was 5 years ago. Later this month I’ll complete my eight Marathon, and at 52 years old, I am heart healthy and am in the best shape of my life.
In July I’ll run my 6th Peachtree Road Race, and my daughter will join me for her 2nd. Hopefully we’ll run our first Marathon together in the next few years.
By newbie
March 14, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this
Adrianne, thanks for the info! That is very helpful, and I appreciate the effort you put into getting me an answer from an authority. Hotlanta, that’s funny, because just last night I told my teenage daughter if she would run one more lap with me I’d run to the top of a concrete stairway at our park and embarrass myself by doing the “Rocky” thing. I’ve also found it helps my stamina to run with her because she talks…a LOT…and if I’m focused on what she’s saying I’m not obsessing about how tired I am or what hurts! Anyway, thanks all for your patience with a novice!
By Bongski
March 14, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this
I discovered running just last year and had my 1st Peachtree Race. But it was during my first half marathon in Alpharetta that i had my “forrest gump running” moment…I’m slowly picking up my training now based on run/walk program and hoping to run my first full marathon this year.
By TDReeves
March 15, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this
I’ve been running for over 30 years. I got hooked on trail running. Love running through the forest and bumping into wildlife. Not every run is a great run, so it helps to have some kick a* music on those days - like AC/DC, etc. I usually run 8.5 miles every other day. I don’t like running in organized races and prefer to run alone. There are tremendous benefits for those who keep-up the habit. First, you’re body looks and feels great, but you need to eat & drink properly too. Second, a lot of time to think about things and solve problems - visualization & audogenic conditioning . Third, there are the scenic benefits - and we do get to see it all. Disadvantages are it’s time consuming and not so family oriented, so us die hards maybe considered a half bubble off.
By John Tackett
March 15, 2008 6:15 PM | Link to this
How hooked on running am I?? Well this morning, at 4:30am, despite the damage to downtown Atlanta, I did an 18 mile run from my home in East Point to my office in Buckhead. Got a little wet when the rain came through about 6am, and it was eerie to run down the middle of Peachtree (and I mean the middle of the street) in downtown and not encounter traffic. Only other people I saw downtown were police, clean-up workers, and lots of homeless folks.
There was a local news crew there and they reporter yelled out at me, “Why in the world are I running after all that happened last night?” My response, “Despite what mother nature throws at us, we as humans need to get back into our daily routines as soon as possible.”
Hopefully all my “online running buddies” fared well in regards to the storms, and look forward to seeing you all at the races. My only wonder in regards to the ING marathon. The expo at the World Congress Center, and the start finish at Centennial Olympic Park. Will things have to change because of the tornadoes?
“If you want to experience an run, run a race. If you want to experience another life, run a marathon.”
By Richard
March 20, 2008 8:17 AM | Link to this
This blog has been a inspiration to me. I was overweight all of my life. 12 years ago I began an eight year weight lose plan that included walking everyday. I lost over 140 pounds and have kept that off for the last four years. But I also lost muscle. On Feb. 1 of this year I began strength training in a gym with a trainer that includes walking 30 minutes a day. In rebuilding muscle in my legs I am trying to slowly change that walk to a jog then a run. My goal - in two years I hope to enter a race - maybe the Peachtree - who knows. Wish me luck!
By Adrianne
March 20, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this
Hi Richard: You’re comment and journey so far is an inspiration to a lot of folks. Good luck as you continue on!