In honor of National Running Day, I thought I’d talk about—you guessed it—running.

Side note: it’s also National Cheese Day, and while I could fill post after post waxing poetic about the heavenly glory that is cheese (sorry vegans and lactose-intolerant peeps), I figured a running post fit more into the whole “healthy living” corner I’ve stepped into.

I used to think running was one thing: torture. Running was a way to escape a predator (snake, angry parent, husband who wants to tickle me, etc.) or it was something I had to do if I wanted to be on the gymnastics, soccer, or crew team (though not if I “forgot” my running shoes or exaggerated an ankle injury).

Running for pleasure was a completely foreign concept to me. I thought competitive runners were legitimately and certifiably insane. In fact, it was only in the last couple of years that I began to appreciate the idea of running for both leisure and competition and the many ways it brings joy, pride, and stress relief to people. Below are 7 reasons why I run…

1. Just about anybody can do it.

Whether you’re 11 years old or 60, tall or short, overweight or thin, the epitome of health or a cancer survivor, chances are you can at least jog. (This of course excludes those with legitimate and debilitating injuries or illnesses.) Even if you start off jogging for no more than 30 seconds with walking breaks, with time, you can improve. The idea of a successful run may be 10 minutes to one person or a Boston-qualifying marathon to another, but as long as you try, you can do it.

2. It’s a way to experience nature.

While many people prefer running on indoor tracks or treadmills, running outdoors is a great way to explore your neighborhood or an area you might be visiting. I personally enjoy running outside because I don’t need music to get me through it—I can take in the wind, the birds chirping, the waves crashing, you name it. I spend so much time indoors at my 8-5 job that I relish any chance to be outside.

3. It can be a way to travel and see the world.

Even if you’re not at an elite level, you can sign up for a race. While the only races I’ve completed have all been in Mobile, I know plenty of people who participate in destination races and have run half-marathons and 10Ks all across the country. One day I hope to train for and complete a half-marathon, and I’d love to do one in Savannah, Nashville, or somewhere else in the South.

4. The camaraderie and respect.

With running clubs in almost every city, running can be a great way to make friends or strengthen friendships you already have. While I generally run on my own, I’d love to take part in something like Mellow Milers in my city. At almost any race, large or small, you find viewers passing out water and encouragement, clapping and cheering along the sidelines, and otherwise showing support for the athletes. I know in this year’s Azalea Trail Run 5K, as I was finishing the last leg of the race and watching the 10K finishers join my side (and often pass me), I couldn’t help but smile. I felt a bond with these runners who were all there for a unique, but important, reason.

5. The ability to connect and bring awareness to bigger things.

Most races (at least all the ones I’ve done) are held to raise awareness and money for some important issue. The 8K By the Bay I did last April raised money for a local organization that helps battered and abused women. The small 5K I did at the college helped raise funds for a mission trip to South America, and many races raise awareness and donations for cancer and other illnesses (like with Team in Training). Plus, who can forget the beautiful displays of courage after the tragedy of the Boston Marathon bombing? Runners and spectators joined together to help injured or lost loved ones and raise money and support for victims, As a result, running reminded us of the beauty of humanity rather than the pain, suffering, and loss it often causes.

6. It makes you strong.

Running (especially running paired with strength training) is one of the best ways to become physically fit and strong. I’ve seen otherwise non-athletic people turn into near-super-athletes after months and years of serious running! But what about those days where you’d rather watch TV than go for your run or feel like walking the last leg of your 5K even though your body says you can finish? It takes mental determination just to lace up your running shoes or push forward, but in the end, you’re stronger for having persevered. (Of course you should always listen to your body. Some days you’re better off staying in and resting—especially after an injury or you’re under the weather—but often, it’s just a mental block.)

7. It’s an escape.

For some, running is a time to just “be.” When you’re running, you don’t have to worry about anybody else. It can be a form of meditation, a release of anger, fears, and frustrations, or an opportunity to relax and avoid thinking all together. Running can, in fact, be fun (especially if you take part in some sort of themed run like The Color Run or Zombie Run.

As you can see, running has many benefits and draws. Even if you thought you’d never be a runner (like myself—and I’m still far from calling myself an “elite runner”), what do you have to lose for just trying?

I’ve eased up on running during my second trimester (and will do so throughout my pregnancy and postpartum period), but I can’t wait to get back into it, especially when the weather cools. Although I am a novice and take many walking breaks, I love the jolt of energy and sense of accomplishment I feel after completing a run. It’s totally worth it.

• If you’re a runner—what is your main reason for running?
• What advice do you have for those who think they just can’t be a runner?