Thank you guys SO much for all the encouragement on my last post about running my first 5k race. I can’t tell you how much your comments mean to me, and how helpful your advice is. With an extra boost of confidence from you guys and a major dose of encouragement from Josh and my parents (who had to listen to me voice my fears about running outside for a good 24 hours) I laced up my shoes, got in the car, and drove to the Riverwalk in my town. If I’m going to be running a 5k race next week I need to get out on the pavement between now and then.
The first time these shoes have seen pavement other than a parking lot. The trail is a 3 mile paved area that goes from my town, South Williamsport, over a bridge to Williamsport, then over another bridge back to South Williamsport again. I had no idea what to expect and I was seriously nervous I would start to run and my legs would be like, “Pavement, what’s this? No thank you.” Either that or I wouldn’t be able to pace myself at all and end up winded and walking within two minutes.
Well I got on the pavement and started running and the most incredible thing happened; I could keep running!! It felt just like it did on the treadmill, I ran what felt comfortable to me (and it ended up being around the speed I’ve been running on the treadmill), and the hills leading up to and over the bridges (pretty steep hills!) were no problem because my legs have done it before running incline on the treadmill. The view was so beautiful, I found I couldn’t stop looking around.
It felt so nice to have the sun on my face and a cool breeze in the air. I loved getting to run by the water. Everyone else on the trail was so nice and always took the time to smile, wave, and say hello. There were also a lot of dogs on walks and they were all so cute! It was hard to keep myself from stopping to go pet them.
I totally get why people love outdoor running. I never think I’ll be a run in the rain, or in the snow, or in the extreme heat kind of girl. Running on a beautiful fall or spring day though? Absolutely! I’ll definitely be spending a lot less time on the treadmill this fall. I wish I could have taken a picture of the bridges for you and how awesome the trails on them are, they are wide and paved and have a wall separating them from the highway. But I only took pictures on my phone when I was on my minute speed walk breaks (I took 3) and I vowed to run up and down both bridges.
I finished the run feeling so victorious, completing the run (.107 less than a full 5k) in 33 minutes and 47 seconds. I know that is slow for a lot of people but that is FAST for me! I run a 5k on the treadmill in 39 minutes. I’m a little nervous I did the calculating wrong or something since I don’t have a sports watch I set the timer on my phone since that is such a jump in time. But when I run on the treadmill at a speed of 5.5 I always feel like I can be moving a little quicker so maybe my body could finally do that out on the open road. Regardless of my time I’m just SO happy I could do it. I’ll find out my real time next Friday at the race, it’s really not what’s important to me about running. When I finished the run I felt on top of the world. I freaking did it!
This song kept playing in my head as I jumped and danced around. (Warning if you’re at work, there’s profanity in this song.)
I was so proud as I ran. Two months ago, this run never would have been possible. Even more importantly, I never would have enjoyed it. It’s crazy what you can accomplish when you put your mind to it and put in the time. And to all my treadmill people, please don’t worry like I did. What you can do on a treadmill you can do outside if you ever wish to, it’s still real running. I was so happy to validate to myself that treadmill running trains you exactly like outdoor running does. I know when winter comes around my new love of running outdoors will have to be put on hold for a while. Until then, I’m going to try and run outside as much as I can!
Question of the Day: Do you prefer running outdoors or inside? Do you find you run differently when you’re inside or outside?
I ALWAYS run outside! Cannot stand the “dreadmill”.
Way to go on your 1st run outside! Woohoo!
Shannon
http://www.irunreadteach.wordpress.com
Thanks so much girly! I still like the treadmill, I just love outdoor running!
One word, “Duh!”
I’m kidding, but I love running outdoors so much that I HATE running on treadmills. The view, the breeze, the dogs, the everything. I am so glad that you enjoyed it. And I’m so happy that you had such a great time. You’re going to be awesome in your race! The only bad thing? It will be hard to get back on the treadmill
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Aw thanks! haha I know I don’t know why I thought I was the one person in the world with legs not suited to run outside. I’m so glad I can!
Awesome job on the first outdoor run. I actually only run outdoors and have never run on a treadmill!
I’m doing the 5k next weekend too! Maybe we’ll run into each other (pun kinda intended)!
My boyfriend went to college in Williamsport, but I never knew that there was such a gorgeous running path in the area…then again, neither does he probably.
I posted the same song for my 10K race recap! It’s my unofficial marathon training song – love it
Good job on the run – I love running outside, even in the snow.
I think it was on your page I first heard the song!! I love it, it has been in my head nonstop since! Thank you!
Yay!! Congratulations on your first outdoor run! I’m glad that you had a great time. I so much prefer running outside. There’s nothing like it. Gorgeous picture too.
Aw thanks! I’m so lucky to be surrounded by such gorgeous scenery. I’m trying to take it all in before I graduate and have to move. ;p
Congratulations!
That’s huge, and so exciting! I think nothing beats outdoors (and personally I LOVE running in the rain), but both are good, and it’s good to mix it up.
Thanks so much! I was so excited to realize I could actually do it!
Awesome! I ALWAYS prefer for run outside! Of course that is if the weather cooperates. Right now is the best time for outdoor running. Perfect weather and the changing of the seasons is beautiful. See you next weekend
We have the same Sauconys. I’m trying the lower drop for the first time. How do you like them?
Soo excited for next weekend!! And I LOVE my Sauconys. I’ve never had a higher drop shoe because I never ran before this so I don’t know the difference but the 8mm feels perfect to me. I don’t run high mileage so that may be part of why I don’t have any problems but I’ve had zero knee or foot pain when I run. It’s really nice, I don’t even feel my feet when I run. I also love the wide toe box, I’ve had zero toenail problems.
YAY!!! Running outside is MUCH better than the treadmill. Fresh air and changing scenery keeps it fun and exciting. So happy for you! Remember never say never!
Aw thank you so much! I couldn’t believe how much I enjoyed it. I guess since I’ve never been able to do athletic things I never thought I would ever enjoy them. I’m so glad that’s changing!
Wooooo! Glad you enjoyed! I’m like you – I’ll never be a harsh-weather runner, but I do enjoy a good fall weather run. Beautiful scenes, sun on your face.. doesn’t get better
Way to go!
Thanks so much Meredith! It felt amazing to run outside!
Congratulations!
I can only run outside. When I first started running, I would run on the treadmill but once I discovered the beauty of running outside, I felt just like you did. You feel free. Now, when you try to run on a treadmill, you’ll feel like a hamster in a wheel. There’s no going back now.
SPA love!
Thank you so much!! I know, it was crazy to look around the river and actually see how far I had run. I never got the magnitude of 3 miles on a treadmill, just because you can’t see it!
Great job Erin! Running outside is SO much better than the treadmill, as you just found out. I avoid the treadmill at all costs b/c of that. The time flies outside. Very excited for you RW 5k!
Thank you so so much! At first I was so relieved I could run, and then I was so happy because I was enjoying it so much! Time really did fly, I was too busy taking in all the sights!
congrats! looks like you had a fun time! enjoy the outdoors! can’t wait to read about your upcoming 5k!
Aw thank you so much! I’m so excited to get to run it and then recap it all!
There is a whole world to explore and you see a lot of more of it when you run. You tend to see things differently, you might even surprise yourself – running on a snowy day can be an almost magical experience, running in the rain can be fun and bring out your inner child when you are stomping through puddles and running on those really hot/cold days bring that I can’t believe that I just did that, but I did! feelings. Talk to us a year from now about running outside versus running on the dreadmill (it has its place, but outdoors is so much better
. I look forward to meeting you next week at RW 
I really hope I can view running in those conditions like that someday. Running in the snow does sound pretty cool, I am always freezing though so I’m a little nervous about being warm enough. So excited for next weekend! I think it’s going to be a blast!
Awesome job – you killed it, girl! I find that I can run much faster outside than I can on the treadmill too – and your treadmill training has prepared you well for the awesomeness that is outdoor fall running!
Aw thank you so much girly!! I feel like I always thought the treadmill was so much easier than running outdoors and I wasn’t “really” running. I’m so happy that what I did on the treadmill really prepared me for being outside.
So proud of you! It was the greatest feeling right?! I bet the more you start running, you will not care if it’s hot, cold, raining or snowing. You will just want to run! Congrats and good luck on your first 5k!
Thank you so so much!! It was the best feeling!
I love love love outdoor running. I only pick the treadmill if there’s a game on and I want to watch it
I really love the feel of the sun on my face, the smell of fresh air and I’m an observer (I like to people watch while running/take in my surroundings)
Yes, people watching is so much fun! I saw so many older people walking pets and it was just the cutest thing!
Running outside gives you those extra benefits of sunshine (wear sunscreen!) and fresh air. I also find it more head-clearing than the treadmill, where I tend to focus on the numbers.
Yes, it’s hard not to look at the time or speed or distance on the treadmill whereas when I ran outside I just focused on running (probably also partly due to not having a sports watch haha). And yes, the first thing I did when I was getting ready to run was put on sunscreen. I have very fair skin and see a dermatologist once a year to get my skin checked so I dont mess around with that.
Congrats on finding out how awesome outside running is! I do prefer to run outside, especially in the Fall when the air is cool & crisp!
Yes, the air was perfect!! It really was awesome to run outside.
I much prefer running outdoors. The Fall is beautiful season to run outdoors I think!
It was so beautiful!! I couldn’t stop looking around at everything!
I am so happy for you and proud of you! That is an awesome time! It was a fast run! I do love running outside! I try to do some or my training on the treadmill though because it is easier on my knees. But a run outside is so much less boring that a run on the treadmill. You are going to rock your 5K. I am so excited for you!!!!
Thank you so much Dawn!! This means a lot! I hope we end up at the same event sometime so we can hang out!
Awesome work! Outdoor running beats indoor any day! Im glad it felt so good to be back! Your race will be great!!
Thank you so much! I’m so excited for the race next week!
YAY! I’m so glad you went outside. I haven’t done an outside run in months. B/c of the heat, but now that its cold in our area, I can’t wait to head outside for a run.
Thank you girly!! It was awesome! I’m so excited you get to run outside again soon. Josh and I are planning an outdoor run on Sunday (today and tomorrow are pilates days) and I can’t wait!
Way to go!! Like Debbie, I love running outside so much that I can hardly handle the treadmill anymore. Awesome job on your pacing, too– and congrats on all your progress the last few months!
Thanks so much! I was so surprised I was able to pace myself, I really don’t think it was me doing anything, I think that was just my body only knowing how to go that speed since I run the same thing over and over on the treadmill. haha It’s like my body’s default setting. ;p
Yay! You did it. I actually find terrain outdoor runs harder but a scenic course (like the one you ran) makes it all worthwhile… and a beautiful day! It was so nice out here in southeastern PA too but I couldn’t get out because I was sick so I’ll only be running twice (if even) this week…
That’s my avg time on terrain runs and treadmill runs. Just keep running to get better! You already have a great mindset about those hills!
Thanks so much girly!! I was so excited when I did it! That’s exactly what I want to do, keep on running to hopefully get better over time!
I hope you feel better soon!!
You will never look at a treadmill in quite the same way again! I am an outdoor runner year round. I guarantee a few more outdoor runs and you won’t want to run inside any more! Good luck in your 5K!
Aw thank you so much! And people keep on telling me that about running outdoors, I guess I’ll see with time! haha
Woohoo! I knew you would do great! I love running outdoors and only run on the treadmill if it’s thunder storming outside or too hot. I actually find the treadmill harder. Good for you! You’re going to do great next weekend!!!
Aw thank you Mindy! Your encouragement really means a lot! I’m so excited for next weekend!!
Treadmills and I haven’t gotten along lately, just because I have nothing to look at. In comes outside for me. I love people watching, looking around, etc. Good song choice.
And congrats!!
I’m really lucky that the treadmills at my school gym all have monitors attached that can show tv on demand, music videos, or scenery paths that change as you run. I have to say though, running outside, still better!
You live in SUCH a gorgeous area to be able to run outside! I’m so jealous!
Congrats on the first outside run — I promise, after a few outside runs you’ll start calling it the dreadmill too. I can’t stand running indoors anymore, and only do it when the weather REALLY won’t let me run down the street. But it’s torture and I hate every minute of it. Looking forward to following along!
SPA love!
Megan
I know, I feel really lucky to have so much outside beauty!
Thanks so much for all the encouragement, it is so much fun to get to share this journey with everyone!
congrats! outside runs are a MUST for me! I give you props for staying on the dreadmill for so long!
Aw thank you! I still like the treadmill but I LOVE outdoor running!
Woot! Loved this recap of what sounds like a wonderful experience. Running outside is beautiful
You’re going to do great in your 5k.
Aw thank you so much! It was a really awesome experience!
I’m so glad you enjoyed your outside run!!! You’re going to have a blast at the 5k!
Thank you so much! I’m SO excited for the 5k!
Way to go! It may seem like a small victory to some, but it’s a huge one for you and you should be so happy! There are lots of great ruuning routes around State College that I would be happy to share, too. And a half marathon in early December that could be fun to volunteer at or get involved with!
Thank you so much, it really is huge to me! I would LOVE running routes recommendations around State College! Josh and I are going to run together on Sunday so it would be awesome to get to run somewhere cool! What half marathon is happening? That would be neat to volunteer with!
You never know – running in the rain might just become your thing!
Never say never right?
COngrats! My those miles be the first of many enjoyed outside. The great outdoors is probably my preference now, although like you, I started on a mill. THe mill definitely has it’s time and place though. WTG!
Aw thank you so much, I really hope they are the first of many! I like them both, but I definitely prefer outdoor running after having my first taste of it!
I find that I run so much faster outside then on the treadmill so i’m sure you were right! great job- now you’re hooked
I really love it, running outside was an awesome feeling!
I am so glad you ran outside! I am anti-Dreadmill!
I have even found local places with indoor tracks for when it is too cold out for me!
You will do great!!
Ohh that’s a great idea about indoor tracks! Thanks!
What an inspiring, feel-good post! Great job running outside. Your pictures made me so jealous! I want to run outside, but I’ve been running before the sun comes up and I don’t feel safe running in the dark by myself.
Good luck at your 5K next week. You’re going to do so well! Can’t wait to hear how it goes.
Oh thank you so much!! Yeah I feel really lucky to live surrounded by so much natural beauty! I would be nervous running after dark for safety reasons too!
Awesome!! I used to only run inside and was almost afraid of outside. But man that first time outdoors I realized I had been missing so much. I almost never run on the treadmill anymore. It makes me crazy to even think about it. So glad you had a great outside run!
Yes, I was scared about running outside too! I just felt like I wouldn’t be able to do it, I’m so glad I proved myself wrong!
Awesome job getting your first outside run done! And never say never about running in the elements – you just never know!
That is true! Haha Thank you so much!
I am so glad you loved it. Your trail looks amazing!
I am an outdoor runner for sure. Hate the treadmill.
Aw thank you, I really did love it. The beautiful trail definitely did help!
Thats awesome, congratulations on taking that step!
Thanks so much! I really appreciate it!
Wow, very inspirational! I’ve wanted to work up to being able to run a 5k race for so long now but haven’t been able to do it. I also have a fear of running outside. Congrats!
Congrats on your first run outdoors! A warning, though: It IS addictive. Before too long, you may find yourself trotting through rain, sleet, snow and scorching sun.
You’ve been warned!
haha Never say never right? I really am enjoying running outside so who knows what will happen!