30 Years and Proud

Yesterday I turned 30 years old. I entered a new decade and more importantly, a new age group for running and triathlon races (just kidding – ok maybe not). My 30 year old self is someone I’m proud to be. I’m certainly not perfect, nor do I think that I have nothing left to learn, but I am confident, strong, and proud. I spent the large majority of my life on the other end of this spectrum – insecure and never happy with my body.

If you have been following my blog, you have probably witnessed some of this evolution, but it’s been a work in progress for sometime. I’ve tried nearly every diet, fitness program, and gimmick there is to get a “bikini body”, “rock that little black dress” or “never have to diet again.” I was an active and healthy child until sixth grade when I stopped playing sports and started eating after school snacks. I gained a lot of weight and then dropped some of it naturally once I started playing sports in 7th grade again, but I carried a little extra with me from then on. I never thought I could be thin without starving myself. I thought I wasn’t built to be thin. And I like food too much to starve myself.

I tell people sometimes that P90X changed my life and I’m not being dramatic – it really did. I’m not sure if it was P90X itself that did it, but something finally clicked with me when I went through the 90 day program and I have not struggled with my weight, self esteem or dieting since (of course I have my moments). P90X showed me that I can have a strong body and I can be and stay fit without starving myself as long as I regularly exercise, lift weights and feed my body healthy, whole foods most of the time. . Consistency is key.

Running and triathlon have been a pivotal part of my transformation. Although P90X was the catalyst to my change, endurance sports have kept me going. I run for reasons completely outside of appearances. I run to get stronger and faster. I am constantly challenged by running – I set goals, work hard and am rewarded for that work. Sometimes, race day breaks my heart as it did in Eugene this year, but I keep going. I love the community that running has provided me – friendships, near and far, real and virtual, though running clubs, local races, and Girls on the Run, as well as the blog and social media world and of course Oiselle. Running is one of my greatest joys.

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Although I’ve been lamenting lately that I’m “so old,” in reality, I feel better than I ever have and I’m happier than ever. I’ve battled inner demons and won. I am fitter, healthier, stronger, and hotter than ever before and have a lot of goals still left to conquer.

Take that, 30!