Confession time: I have never done a cardio run workout before, but after hearing how satisfying it is to just pound the pavement and work your breath, heart and body all at the same time, I had to try. But running first thing in the morning is a totally different start to my day. I am so not a morning person! I’ve always wondered if being on a runner’s high would totally change the entire course of my day. Would I be more productive? Would I feel healthier and happy all day? Only one way to find out!
My alarm went off at 6:00 a.m. (painful!) and at that moment, I felt like this was a bad idea that was not happening. No way was I about to give up an hour of sleep to exercise. Along with the full-body tiredness came “that time of the month,” giving me the perfect excuse to stay in bed under the covers.
I pushed myself to get up and face the challenge ahead: A morning run along Mother’s Beach with my dog. Is this what they mean by a runner’s wall? Because I nailed it. Kidding.
My dog was unbelievably excited about the early morning activities. I, on the other hand, took a bit longer to find my groove. But once I did, I felt great. During and after my run, I felt empowered, excited and refreshed. Hello, runner’s high! Once I got home, however, I crashed. This was the opposite of what I was hoping for!
I know so many of you think running is the best way to start the day, but I haven’t been converted yet — despite feeling comfortable while wearing my o.b. ® tampon.
For me, it was more of a personal struggle to feel the benefits of a morning run and the energy (or lack thereof) for the rest of the day. Next time I think I will just turn over and make the most of that extra hour of sleep. Even though my dog loved running in the morning and the fresh air was amazing, I was way too tired the rest of the day. I think an early morning run is off my weekly rotation.
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