I was nervous. I don’t run and the last month’s of training didn’t seem enough to propel for three miles. In all honesty, I really only trained consistently the week before the impending Color Run.

Yes, a three-mile run isn’t terribly long, but for a person who rarely runs a mile, the distance was nerve wracking. In fact, before June 1, I can’t remember when was the last time I ran a mile.

Regardless, I spent $40 for the July 4 Color Run at Stephens Lake Park, and I wasn’t going to waste my money by wimping out. This race, I would conquer.

The event was a bit intimidating, but I snagged some water, received my pristine white shirt and hid out by my car. No sense in wandering around the park looking like the lonesome soul I was.

I learned some things about the world of running and myself during that one-hour jaunt around the park.

1. Color Runs should come with a warning: “This is a social activity. Bring friends”

My roommate calls me bold, because I do things without friends. While I own my “Lone Wolf” status sometimes, the Color Run is a place for packs of wolves, figuratively speaking. You are supposed to throw color at one another, laugh and have an all around good time.  This is not something to do by yourself. I’m happy I did the Color Run, but seriously, it’s designed to be a fun event, and it’s hard to have a great time without friends. Now, I could’ve thrown color at random strangers, but I just don’t think that would have been appreciated.

2. Walking is OK

When I started the race, I ran. I was keeping pace with the more seasoned runners and it felt good. After 1 kilometer, those good feelings had been replaced by fatigue. (Did I mention I hadn’t trained enough for this adventure?) I slowed down to a brisk walk for a little bit and watched as people of all ages passed me, including a tiny five-year-old. During the race, I ran for a little bit and walked for a little bit more. I eventually found a solid group of people who went at a similar pace. While we never exchanged words, I like to think we shared a bond.

3. Running is not a social event

People were talking and having a grand ole time during the race. Meanwhile, I was breathing heavily and trying to be cool about my level of fitness. After running those three miles, I still don’t how people run in groups. What’s enjoyable about watching your friend sweat? I understand social walks, but running with friends baffles me.

4. That powder won’t be coming out of my car or clothes anytime soon. 

I don’t know what they put in it, but the color from the run will last beyond my sore muscles. Also, it does not taste good so beware when running through the checkpoints. On the flip side, it’s really fun to get doused with color as you run.

5. My legs didn’t revolt

When I imagined myself running the 5K, I pictured me on the ground halfway through. I really thought my body would say, “We don’t run,” and give up. Yet, that didn’t happen! I was able to run the final .5 mile.

It may have only been three miles, but I still felt like Rocky at the end of it.