Lost my identity as an athlete after becoming a dad

1d ago1 min read

Used to run marathons, played in a competitive basketball league, spent hours at the gym. That was my thing, you know? After my first son was born I told myself I'd get back to it. Now he's 5 and I'm just starting to get back to running but only 20 minutes here and there at 5:30 AM. I'll never be that guy again and some days I grieve it. On the flip side I've found new purpose I didn't expect. The kid watches me run now and wants to run with me. We do a mile together sometimes and he's so proud. I guess I traded one identity for another.

3 comments11 views

Comments(3)

RRobert T.New Dadjust now

The gym hours are gone but you haven't lost your identity, you've just expanded it. Being a dad IS part of your identity now and that's not a bad thing. You might surprise yourself with how much you can still do.

MMichael P.New Dad1d ago

I feel this one hard. Used to run marathons before the kids and honestly I had to completely reimagine what fitness looks like for me now. For me it's the 5am runs before everyone wakes up. Not the same as my old training but it keeps me sane and keeps me present when the family is awake.

SSalvatoreNew Dad21h ago

Here's the thing though: you can still be that athlete AND be the dad. It just looks different now. Skateboarding with my kid gets me moving, gets my heart rate up, and he thinks I'm cool. Different from my competitive days but it's honestly better because he's there.