Whether you run one day a week or every day, you are a runner. Whether you run for five minutes or for an hour, you are a runner. This is the wonderful thing about running, anyone can do it. Any age, any strength, any ability, can become a runner.

I think one of the most inspiring things is reading stories of runners all around the world. They are such an inspiration to me and it is so empowering to apart of the running community. By just searching and reading runner’s stories you learn that once you begin running, the possibilities for growth and self improvement are endless. Whether your end goal is improving fitness or gaining confidence, running holds the capability to achieve what may have once been considered impossible.

Sometimes I question if my current mileage is enough. Amanda Brooks creates a great point that in the world of running, your training isn’t determined by anyone but you. By determining your short and long term goals, everyone has the ability to build a training plan in order to achieve it. This really clicked with me because in the past I have compared my training to my teammates’ training, but we are all different runners. There is no definite amount of time or miles that splits runners into groups. If you run, you are a runner.

With this in mind, my story becomes clear. Why do I run? I run to clear my mind. I run to see the world in a clear and beautiful way it is suppose to be seen. With each breath of fresh air I remind myself to live in the moment and enjoy every second. Without running, I feel I would have missed out on discovering the good of each day. The power behind every step comes from the power felt by seeing the beauty in the little things. This is what has and always will keep me coming back, mile after mile.

Ainsley