Wish you well, Duffey. As Steve says, it can become addicting -- a positive addiction.
Seems like another lifetime ago but Superbob got hooked on running about the time the original "Rocky" movie came out in 1976. Completed two full-length marathons (more like a survival march for a mesomorph like me), and a great many 5Ks, 10Ks, 10-milers, and half-marathons. Shaped down to 50 pounds less than I am now, and while I was usually a middle-of-the-pack guy, I actually hit a few highs -- once finished second in my age division; once just almost sprinted a very hilly 10-mile course at a local university; averaged 6-minute miles -- have no idea how I did it.
So running brings many mental as well as physical rewards. On the down side, I suppose the wear and tear may have contributed to the need for an eventual knee replacement; however, I think an old football injury probably was a bigger contributing factor. Getting in shape and being able to overcome gimpiness actually may have prolonged the knee's usefulness, who knows? In any event, it was a period of my life I look back on fondly -- wouldn't have traded it for anything.
Now that I am so settled in walking and hiking, I don't really miss the running -- with a bionic knee, it's a no-no in any event. I enjoy having the opportunity to bird-watch while walking (and no Cooker, not talking about the birds on the beach -- uh, not necessarily) :tongue2: Can supplement with x-biking and aqua exercise.
Anyway, I am waxing nostalgic -- my purpose is to encourage you in this new goal, Duffey. Pick up Runners' World or some other inspirational publications. Make a training plan; keep a journal. Tie it in with your nutritional plan. Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy -- we'll be cheering you on!
