Discover how I went from hating running to embracing it as a way of life. My story takes you to the heart of Canada’s wilderness, where I found motivation, overcame fears, and grew to love the freedom of running outdoors.

My Struggle with Running: When It Felt Like a Chore

I’ll admit it: I used to hate running. During school, teachers “forced” us to run laps around the track. None of them managed to spark any enthusiasm in me. Running wasn’t a tradition in my family either, so I lacked natural motivation. That doesn’t mean I didn’t enjoy sports – I loved staying active.

My favorite activities were cycling and hiking in the mountains. These hobbies followed me to Canada, where I spent time living in Jasper, right in the heart of the stunning Rocky Mountains. That’s where everything changed – in a way I never expected.

The Turning Point: From Cycling to Running in the Wild

Facing Bears and Overcoming Fear

Jasper was a dream for a cycling enthusiast like me. Exploring the Rockies by bike gave me a sense of freedom and joy. But as winter approached, the number of bear encounters increased. Surprising a bear on a bike? Not exactly a fun thought.

I tried various ways to make my presence known – attaching a bell to my handlebars, singing loudly, anything to avoid startling wildlife. But the fear of an unexpected encounter remained. Quitting my outdoor adventures wasn’t an option, so I had to find an alternative.

Then it hit me: why not start running? The slower pace meant bears could hear my footsteps long before I reached them, reducing the chance of a surprise. After all, bears generally avoid humans when given the chance.

Why Running Became My Solution

At first, running was purely practical. It allowed me to stay active and explore Jasper’s beauty while feeling safer. But I discovered something unexpected: running gave me joy. The rhythmic sound of my feet pounding the trails connected me to nature in a whole new way.

Running in the Heart of Nature

Encountering Wildlife in the Canadian Rockies

Running through Jasper’s wilderness brought me face-to-face with not only bears but also wolves, caribou, and deer. While some encounters were nerve-wracking, I quickly learned to respect and appreciate these animals from a safe distance.

A friend and avid runner once told me, “I’d feel much more afraid running in a city than in the wilderness.” She had a point. The Canadian Rockies gave me an unmatched sense of peace and connection to the world around me.

Why Nature Made Running Enjoyable

The natural beauty of Jasper transformed running from a chore into something I looked forward to. The crisp mountain air, the quiet forest trails, and the stunning scenery turned every run into an adventure. I wasn’t just running – I was experiencing nature in its purest form.

Looking Back on My Running Beginnings

When I first started running, I moved slowly and quietly, but I found joy with every step. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to begin my journey than Jasper. Looking back now, I realize that running has given me so much more than physical fitness – it’s given me a new way to appreciate life.

Why Running Can Change Your Life Too

Maybe you’re like I used to be – someone who thinks running isn’t for you. But sometimes, all it takes is the right place and a reason to step outside and give it a try. Whether you run for peace, fitness, or adventure, it’s worth discovering what running can offer you.