~ Here at THK, we usually write about great nutrition. After asking readers, you wanted more on related topics, so here’s a little inspiration to kick-start summer fitness goals. Want to join me? ~
It’s June 1, and I need a little motivation. Maybe you do, too.
June 1 marks the start of our family’s summer fitness plan.
My daughter Amy is entering high school and joining the cross-country team. Her summer target is 150 miles between June 1 and July 31. If that sounds like a lot, the older girls on the team are asked to run 200 miles.
When Amy set her training plan for the next 61 days, Scott and I decided to set our own goals to support her and to challenge ourselves. Scott is aiming for the full 150 miles alongside her. I’m being honest with myself and committing to 100 miles.
One hundred miles in 61 days is a meaningful goal for me.
I need that push, so I’m putting this out publicly because it makes it harder to back out. I’d have to admit I didn’t follow through.
Maybe you need a little inspiration, too. Running might not be your thing—it’s not my favorite either—but what matters is choosing to improve your health this summer and finding the reasons that motivate you.
All the Reasons I Will Run 100 Miles by July 31 (aka: Why I Run)
#1 – For Me (Not Exactly the Whole Story)
People expect me to say I run because it feels great and because it helps with calories, muscle, metabolism, and cardiovascular health. All of that is true. But being a dedicated runner isn’t who I’ve always been.
Through the years I’ve tried many activities—soccer, track, marching band drill team, cheerleading, Jazzercise, kickboxing, step and slide aerobics, water aerobics, free weights, power walking, biking, hiking, and even rafting. Running has generally been near the bottom of the list.
My high school track coach often shifted me to events where I did the least harm to the team’s score. I admit I probably won’t always run this much long term; I’d love to return to dance aerobics and weight lifting, or invent a cooking sport that suits me. But running now builds the fitness base to handle whatever comes next.
So yes—I exercise for me. But running, specifically, is often about other people and commitments that matter more than personal preference.
#2 – For My Daughter (A Real Reason)
Amy became a runner in third grade, which was a total surprise. She joined the youth running club and discovered a love for the sport through rain, cold, and sore muscles.
As parents who never saw ourselves as runners, we couldn’t send her out alone at that age. So we ran with her. Running has shaped Amy’s character—her work ethic, perseverance, and confidence—and it has become something our family shares. I run for her.
These days she runs much faster than I do, but we still enjoy running “together” by heading out at the same time and crossing paths on neighborhood loops.
#3 – For My Son (Also Real)
We talk with our kids about making healthy, responsible choices and try to model that. I want them to see that sometimes you do things you don’t love because they’re right and important. I want them to witness goal-setting and follow-through.
Last summer, when Amy and Scott trained for a half marathon, my son Ty and I set a smaller target: complete that day’s 10K. He finished second in his division, and I crossed the line with my goal achieved.
Ty focuses on soccer and lacrosse but runs with our family and has competed at youth nationals. Running offers an open opportunity—a life sport he can use anytime. I run in part to show him what commitment and persistence look like.
#4 – For My Dog (Totally Real)
My dog Finn is a Jack Russell/Rat Terrier mix—Jack Russell energy runs deep. I run for Finn’s sake: to keep him happy and to burn off his boundless energy. When a short walk won’t do, an exhausting run does the trick.
On days when I really don’t feel like running, Finn’s eager face is the nudge I need.
#5 – Because It’s Outside
We own a treadmill and an elliptical we rarely use. I prefer running outdoors: fresh air, sunlight, and the clearing of a cluttered mind. Time outside is restorative—it resets my mood faster than almost anything else.
Need an attitude adjustment? A quick run outside often does the trick.
#6 – Because I Can
I once read a list from another runner and kept one simple line: I run because I can.
Because I’m healthy enough, young enough, fit enough, and my neighborhood is safe enough. I remember passing an older man with a walker and oxygen tank on a trail and thinking how fortunate I am to be out running. I also think of neighbors with physical challenges who still stay active. And I think of women in places where it’s unsafe to be outside alone. Those comparisons remind me to appreciate the ability to run.
Running can feel a little like torture some days, but it’s also a privilege not everyone has. So I sigh, clip on Finn’s leash, and head out—because I can.
What Are Your Reasons? (And Why “Maybe”?)
After sharing my reasons, you might wonder why I say “maybe” and how you can join. Many people make New Year’s fitness resolutions then drop them. I think summer is a better time: schedules calm down, weather improves, and it’s easier to get active without heavy coats and boots.
I want you to join me this summer. Choose something—anything—that appeals to you and makes you a bit more active or healthy. Check with your doctor if needed, but don’t let excuses win. You don’t have to commit to 100 miles in two months. I might not even finish my own goal. Just commit to doing something.
That’s why I add “maybe”—because your something doesn’t have to be running. It can be any activity that moves you toward better health.
Find your reasons and your inspiration, then go do it. I’m not completely thrilled about logging 100 miles, but I am excited to hear why you move. Leave a comment and let’s support each other this summer.
Now… I better grab Finn and find those running shoes.