Inspiration for me comes from running and from those who run.

Running is tough — mentally and physically. For most, running goes against our nature. It just doesn't make sense to run for the sake of running.

Dennis was one of those people a few months ago. He'd just as soon sit idle as run anywhere. Dennis was over weight. He didn't exercise and his eating habits weren't great. Then he did something unusual. Dennis strapped on a pair of running shoes and he ran. He ran and he ran some more.

Today, more than 40 pounds lighter, Dennis looks better. He feels better. He eats better. He runs. Dennis is an inspiration because, on a recent Saturday evening, he ran 10 miles for the first time in his life. He didn't stop to catch his breath. He ran through the rain. He ran through the darkness. Dennis ran and by doing so, gained confidence in his abilities. At one time, running had it's limits for Dennis. Not now. His new-found passion and confidence encourage and inspire those around him.

Tomomi is injured. She has pushed herself a little too hard in training. Tomomi is a natural athlete. She runs well. She's just put in too many miles too soon. Now she is having to cut back and deal with a cranky knee. While all of her running buddies finish a speed workout at the Corbin High School track, Tomomi has to be content with walking around the 400-meter oval again and again. She doesn't like it. She likes to run. She's following her physical therapist's orders, though, so she walks and stretches and strengthens. All so she can run again. Tomomi smiles when she says how much she misses being around her friends in the running club. She's not happy with her current circumstance but her positive outlook is inspiring.

Paula is a natural. A casual glance at her physique reveals her runner's build. Paula is an efficient, fast runner. She runs with purpose. She's a good running partner. Paula can set out on a 20-mile run and never break stride. Her running gait and pace are consistent and sure. Paula's physical abilities are inspiring. Not nearly as inspirational as her unassuming and humble approach to running — and life. For the past four months she has been working toward running in her first marathon. Paula is good enough to do very well in that race. Instead of talking about how she is going to run that day, Paula is quietly racing around behind the scenes raising money for the American Cancer Society. She says that if she's going to run anyway, she may as well do something to help others in the process. 

Dennis, Tomomi and Paula inspire me. To push myself to be better. To accept things I can't change. To remember that reaching out to others is far more fulfilling than serving myself.

What inspires you?

Bill Hanson is the former editor/publisher of Fitness Plus magazine where this article first appeared.