How did it start? you better believe it
From a 5K challenge to discovering a passion that changed everything
The author describes overcoming initial resistance to athletics, beginning with a treadmill run and progressing to outdoor distances.
Nope, can't do it
It all started when my sister-in-law suggested we sign up for a 5k in Tampa in March 2021. At the time, I was a fresh gym member carrying about 25 extra pounds and dealing with a nagging condition called Haglund's deformity — a bony bump on the back of my heel that made running feel like a punishment. My first instinct? Nope, can't do it.
Why not?
But something told me to at least try. My first treadmill run lasted about 5 minutes before I was completely gassed. I kept at it though, slowly extending my distance to 2km on the treadmill. Feeling confident, I tried running outdoors — and barely made it 1km before my lungs and legs gave out. Back to the treadmill it was.
The prize
Eventually, I laced up a pair of cheap Amazon shoes ($24) and strapped on a no-name watch ($30, no GPS) and attempted my first outdoor 5k. I completed what I thought was 5k — turns out it was only 4.3k — but it didn't matter. The desire to prove I could do it triumphed over a dodgy heel and zero running experience. 🏃♂️💨
Discovering I had Haglund's deformity was tough, but it turned out to be not a showstopper. Learn more about how I've kept the pain at bay.
My triathlon journey started about 4 months later, and it changed everything. This next chapter is where things really took off.
Andres.
That first 5K was the hardest thing I'd ever done — and the best decision I ever made. If you're on the fence about starting, just lace up and go. You've got this.