I started running in highschool for health and fitness. I joined the cross-country team my last year just to commit to it. Really though, I wasn't a great runner or anything. I can do endurance: distances and long times, but I can't do speed. It was fine because our cross-country team sucked anyways. I did get a "most improved" award at the sports banquet that year which is maybe more embarrassing than anything else. I kept running afterwards, but my consistency varied. As of a year and a half ago I started a very regular routine of running then working out. It's now a natural habit. The working out more than anything though. I need to exercise to feel good, and I won't turn back now. If anything my speed has probably decreased as my strength progresses. I'm not built for running really; too short and stocky with naturally muscular legs that make my center of gravity low.