Gotta start somewhere

Today is the day. I finally got over my fear and intimidation and went running! It's something I've wanted to do for a long time (i.e. four months ago when I bought those snazzy running shoes), but could never quite muster up the courage. I have always cared too much what other people think and it seemed to me that everyone jogging around Manhattan was in perfect shape (total fallacy I know, but we see what we want to see right?) and I had no business huffing and puffing among them. Not to mention the idea of wearing teeny tiny shorts and a tight, moisture-wicking shirt pretty much freaks me out. But the desire to feel strong and fit won out although not without some struggle. I laid out my mid-length shorts and my normal person tshirt next to my running shoes last night, got up this morning and chickened out. I decided instead to walk my dog along the path that I wanted to run. It's the 2.5 mile bridle path around the reservoir in Central Park. Seemed like a reasonable start and it turned out walking around it and actually taking the time to notice that there were people of all shapes, sizes and abilities out there trying to get in or stay in shape put my mind at ease. So this afternoon during lunch (I am office-less for a few days and working from home) I put back on my running shoes and did it! Granted it was sort of a run/walk combo (did I mention I am in terrible shape?), but I probably ran as much as I walked which is something! I read somewhere what it takes three weeks to form a habit. I don't know if this is the start of one, but I sure hope so. I feel strong, healthy and like I deserve a really good lunch.