I run because...

NYC Marathon 2014 | "Only 400m to spare." | Finish time 4:29:57 | TEAM FOX

In one day, National Running Day will be upon us! I love the message because it is a coast to coast celebration of not only the sport itself, but the passion and motivation behind why we run. On the website you can team with Charity Miles to log your miles for a cause, and they also provide downloadable courses, teams and bib print-outs!

For me, running has always been an emotional sport with a deep purpose and connection: I run because I am upset, I run because I feel like I have too much energy, I run to be outside in the sun, I run to celebrate that I can run, I run to think, I run to not think, I run to be alone, I run to raise awareness. And I am pretty sure this stands true for most runners.

I love the idea that everyone can come together on June 3rd and celebrate an activity that so many people enjoy. If you love to run, what's your why?

TIPS FOR RUNNING

If you've been toying with the idea of becoming a runner, here are some important things to consider before lacing up your shoes:

MY WHY

In November 2014, I ran my first marathon, the NYC Marathon. I ran for Team Fox and raised nearly $4,000 for the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research. It was one of the most exhilarating experiences of my entire life. It's actually hard for me to find the right words.

Post-marathon, I took a hiatus from running. It wasn't intentional necessarily, I just put my focus on other athletic endeavors and returned solely to strength training. I do miss it and have been wanting to get out there and pound the pavement recently.

Which is why I'm particularly excited about June 3rd. It's reinspired me to lace up my shoes and go for a run. Not just for me, but to celebrate all the other runners who've found such peace, such strength, such pride in hearing the rythym of their shoes hitting the pavement.

I RUN...

for my dad.

see you on the track...

smiles + protein,

EStace