Runner’s High

by Charlotte
(Texas)

My favorite exercise is running. I love getting up early in the morning when the rest of the world is still asleep and going for a run. When I started, it was hard forcing myself out of a warm bed and out into the cool morning, but now I can’t start my day without waking myself up and clearing my head with a long run.

I live in a rural area in northern Texas and everyone tells me what a beautiful and scenic drive it is to my house, but the drive is nothing compared to seeing it all on a misty morning when it feels like you are the only person in the world. It’s very relaxing and it’s a form of meditation for me. And of course, it’s an amazing exercise - it’s the best cardio there is and it works almost every part of your body, especially your legs.

Before I started running I was fairly out of shape with quite a bit of extra fat on my belly and thighs, but since I’ve been jogging every morning I never seem to lose my breath and my stomach and legs look better than they ever have. Everyone knows runners have the best legs! I think the only one who enjoys my daily runs more than I do is my chocolate Labrador, Buddy, he’s the best running partner I could ask for! I’ve never been big on exercise, but running is one of the best parts of my life.