I started my walking journey back in November of 2024. Getting heart smart by adding movement and improving my mobility was a personal challenge. As someone sitting at a desk nearly every day of the week, I realize that I was setting myself up for failure. Over the last few months, I noticed my endurance improved, my energy level rose, and I felt better. As a result, I thought it would be great to enter my first 5k race of 2025. The race happened today. Let me tell you how I got here.
The goal is and will always be 10,000 steps. I always set out to reach that number. It was an uphill battle, but I always ensured I couldn’t stop until I achieved it. Once I got into a rhythm of hitting or surpassing 10,000 steps, the goalpost moved to getting it done in less time. I dreamed of being fit enough to enter my first 5k race of 2025.
It took a few months to get my time down to one hour and fifteen minutes. I know it does not seem like much, but it took two and a half hours to finish in the beginning. Once I reached the threshold of less than an hour and a half, I was ready to enter my first 5k race in 2025. The last time I participated in a race was over twenty years ago.
I did look for a reason to forgo my participation. The temperature was below fifty degrees this morning. My vehicle was down, so I didn’t know if I wanted to Uber to the park where the race was being held. However, my adrenaline kicked in once I arrived at the location, and I’m super excited. My hands and face were cold, but it was no longer a factor after seeing how many people were ready to walk/run in the race. There were various participants of all ethnicities, ages, and body types. I felt like I found my tribe. We were misfits who came together to prove that we belong. The organizer had wellness screenings, plenty of water, and fruit; everyone received an award for completion. I am proud of myself because I finished.
My First 5k Race of 2025 Statistics
- Finishing time: 1:01.31.7
- Pace: 19:51
- Crossed the finish line: 85th Finished in Age group: 6th place
According to the organizer, Picture of Health Foundation, 142 people registered for the trek. Out of that number, only 108 crossed the finish line. Again, I am happy to be one of them. The experience has motivated me to find a 5K race I can participate in every month because I can continually improve my stats.