Have you ever wanted to be a runner, but thought it was impossible?  This is the eye-catching tag line that seems to resonate with countless women who’ve always wanted to run, but like most of us, set arbitrary limits on our abilities. “I’m too old, too fat, too slow, too klutzy,” and on and on and on! I was one of those women, back when I thought I was too fat to run!

I hit rock bottom with my weight problem, and I was looking for a way to dig myself out. I’ll never know exactly why, but one fateful day, I bought a Runner’s World magazine. I was struck by how healthy and happy the people in it appeared. With all my heart, I wanted to be just like them. I knew that people who ran were fit, and that running burned a lot of calories. So I went down to my local running specialty store, and spent hours there with my copy of RW, looking for the perfect pair of shoes.

The following day, I set out completely incognito – dark blue sweats, sunglasses, and a cap with a very large brim to cover my face. I was so embarrassed to be seen – this fat person plodding along on the very public roads. I couldn’t run for long, I had to stop and walk – A LOT – huffing and puffing, and wondering if I could make it back home.

I made it through that first run, and many runs thereafter. It look awhile for my body to adapt to the demands of aerobic exercise, but the thing that kept me coming back for more was that incredible feeling I got at the end of my workouts.

With that very first attempt at running, okay plodding, I discovered the inherent benefits of a run/walk strategy. This is the best way for women to ease into running. It allows for instant success, and success builds on itself, motivating you to stay with your program. I can rave about the benefits of the run/walk plan, but suffice it to say, it’s a magical way to train! You’ll achieve goals you never imagined you could. Your artificial limits will disappear, and be replaced by a sense of empowerment. I’m living proof. Running saved. . . and changed my life!

Dr. Karey Zufelt obtained her undergraduate degree from the University of California, Davis, graduating with Highest Honors.  She received her medical degree from the UC Davis School of Medicine and entered a Family Practice Residency at San Jose Medical Center, San Jose, California. Karey practiced medicine in the area of Women’s Health, her patient population spanning all age levels from teens to seniors.  Connect to her by visiting her inspirational site, Running for Women.