I feel like I should be training more. As if I should be running 6 days a week. However, I know that it is not realistic when I am raising a family. But today I am really excited because I am going running with a neighbor and she mapped out a new 3 mile path for us. So I decided that it would be good to get out there and run, since I have fallen off the wagon since returning home from Austin.
It was great to have a partner when I run because it helps be keep a normal pace and it pushed me to keep running. I knew that I was not going to start walking at any point unless my partner started first. Yes, I am that competitive.
The awesome news...We never walked during the run. So I finally completed a 3 mile run! I completed the first goal I set for myself more than a week ago. I felt like I accomplished something big. It is amazing how a month ago I could barely run 1 mile and now I ran 3 miles without walking.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Day 18
I am still in Austin and I am scared about running today. My family has informed me of the drought that is affecting Austin and its wildlife. For example, one person reported seeing a wild boar while driving to work early one morning. Another person reported seeing a coral snake in the morning on a walking trail close by. Many people in this area of Austin seem to acknowledge the plethora of rattle snakes, wasps, coyotes, and deer that are roaming the area.
Ignorance in bliss in my case, because yesterday I at least finished my run when I did not have a clue about the wild animal kingdom that was roaming free in people's back yards. Today, I barely finished a quarter of it because I was scared. As I was walking back home, I encountered those wasps and a family of deer trying to run across the street to the woods that I heard other people talk about. I know this, I will not be running in Austin any time soon.
Ignorance in bliss in my case, because yesterday I at least finished my run when I did not have a clue about the wild animal kingdom that was roaming free in people's back yards. Today, I barely finished a quarter of it because I was scared. As I was walking back home, I encountered those wasps and a family of deer trying to run across the street to the woods that I heard other people talk about. I know this, I will not be running in Austin any time soon.
Day 17
I'm in Austin and decided to wake up before everyone else. It is somewhat peaceful in the morning when everyone else is asleep. However, my thoughts are not peaceful because I am dreading this run, like a dread every run. I am dreading this run more because I accidental cut my ankle the night before. But I brave it, lace up and started running this morning.
Although I dread running, I must say that I am enjoying running in different cities. It has forced me to not get use to my surroundings and has made me more patient. The path that I run in Kansas City, I am so familiar with it, I seem to know every tree, every crack in the sidewalk, and every building. These serves as my reminders of how close I am to finishing. When I run in an unfamiliar location, I don't have that luxury and I must continue to on until I reached my destination. There was nothing that was noteworthy of this run. I did beat the heat, which I was ever so greatful for!
Although I dread running, I must say that I am enjoying running in different cities. It has forced me to not get use to my surroundings and has made me more patient. The path that I run in Kansas City, I am so familiar with it, I seem to know every tree, every crack in the sidewalk, and every building. These serves as my reminders of how close I am to finishing. When I run in an unfamiliar location, I don't have that luxury and I must continue to on until I reached my destination. There was nothing that was noteworthy of this run. I did beat the heat, which I was ever so greatful for!
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Training Day 16
I am in Texas for a week. The temperature is going to be over 100 degrees every day that I am here. I will be training at least twice while I am on vacation with the family.
I have been in Texas for 3 days and decided that today was the day that I was going to run. In fact, I was really proud of myself because although I brought my running shoes, I accidentally, on purpose, forgot to pack my running clothes and bought a new pair of shorts at Target.
It was 7:30 and 103 degrees outside when the family went running with mommy. I was so shocked by the heat; I did a combo of running/walking the way to the rec center, where the rest of family was going to play basketball while I continued to run. Then I ran/walked combo back to the beginning of the trail, and ran the entire way back to the rec center.
While on this death valley run, I had a chance to be completely honest with myself by saying that I have not training as hard as I can and that this has been a pattern in my life. I have always started a project, diet, workout really strong and somehow never complete it as strong as I started or not at all. I have known this about myself for a very long time and I have wanted to change it for a long time as well. I guess this is another reason why I signed up for this half-marathon...to push through my complacency that I have developed over the years and finish what I have started. This is also why I started this blog, to hold myself accountable to those who read it so that I may finish this task. I have so much riding on this race. My family is coming in town to support me; I have invested my family's time and money into this run as well. I know that I need to push through this funk and get to really start training like I originally planned.
So, today I pushed through the funk and ran in 103 degree heat in Dallas, TX. The greatest part of the run was this lone woman I saw walking. She reminded myself of me. She seemed lonely, trying to exercise to make herself feel better, but it simply was not doing the job. She was overweight, hunched over, as if trying to hide from everyone while she was walking this park trail. I saw her as I was running to the rec center to get the family and I repaid the kind nods that I have received from other runners to her. I simply smiles and nodded as we met eyes while she walked and I ran by each other. As the family and I walked on the park trail back home I saw this same woman running, holding her head up high, with the biggest smile on her face as she ran by me. I had the biggest smile on my face as she ran by as well.
I have been in Texas for 3 days and decided that today was the day that I was going to run. In fact, I was really proud of myself because although I brought my running shoes, I accidentally, on purpose, forgot to pack my running clothes and bought a new pair of shorts at Target.
It was 7:30 and 103 degrees outside when the family went running with mommy. I was so shocked by the heat; I did a combo of running/walking the way to the rec center, where the rest of family was going to play basketball while I continued to run. Then I ran/walked combo back to the beginning of the trail, and ran the entire way back to the rec center.
While on this death valley run, I had a chance to be completely honest with myself by saying that I have not training as hard as I can and that this has been a pattern in my life. I have always started a project, diet, workout really strong and somehow never complete it as strong as I started or not at all. I have known this about myself for a very long time and I have wanted to change it for a long time as well. I guess this is another reason why I signed up for this half-marathon...to push through my complacency that I have developed over the years and finish what I have started. This is also why I started this blog, to hold myself accountable to those who read it so that I may finish this task. I have so much riding on this race. My family is coming in town to support me; I have invested my family's time and money into this run as well. I know that I need to push through this funk and get to really start training like I originally planned.
So, today I pushed through the funk and ran in 103 degree heat in Dallas, TX. The greatest part of the run was this lone woman I saw walking. She reminded myself of me. She seemed lonely, trying to exercise to make herself feel better, but it simply was not doing the job. She was overweight, hunched over, as if trying to hide from everyone while she was walking this park trail. I saw her as I was running to the rec center to get the family and I repaid the kind nods that I have received from other runners to her. I simply smiles and nodded as we met eyes while she walked and I ran by each other. As the family and I walked on the park trail back home I saw this same woman running, holding her head up high, with the biggest smile on her face as she ran by me. I had the biggest smile on my face as she ran by as well.
Training Day 15
Today I ran with the ladies and boy am I out of shape an need to push myself harder if I am going to keep up with them.
It all started out well...we were jogging together, talking, and laughing. They were running one of the routes that I take during my long 3 mile runs. They really enjoyed the run, but right after 1 mile, I started to get a cramp. I said it before and I will say it again...running SUCKS. It was at this time, I started to think that I wouldn't mind having lipo to get rid of this baby weight I have been holding on to since my own birth and the birth of my son. But I am doing this marathon for another reason other than just losing weight. I am doing it to reach my goal of completely this half-marathon before I turn the big 30. This, by the way, is scaring me more and more the closer is draws near.
So I huffed and puffed through this workout along with the other ladies. I really enjoyed running with them because they made me push myself harder than I would normally do. I just need to be more consistent.
It all started out well...we were jogging together, talking, and laughing. They were running one of the routes that I take during my long 3 mile runs. They really enjoyed the run, but right after 1 mile, I started to get a cramp. I said it before and I will say it again...running SUCKS. It was at this time, I started to think that I wouldn't mind having lipo to get rid of this baby weight I have been holding on to since my own birth and the birth of my son. But I am doing this marathon for another reason other than just losing weight. I am doing it to reach my goal of completely this half-marathon before I turn the big 30. This, by the way, is scaring me more and more the closer is draws near.
So I huffed and puffed through this workout along with the other ladies. I really enjoyed running with them because they made me push myself harder than I would normally do. I just need to be more consistent.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Training Day 13
Today was amazing. I went for my long distance run/walk today. I got up just in time to beat the heat. By the time I got back home, I was drenched in sweat and the temperature was steadily climbing. It was suppose to feel like it was over 100 degrees and I am really grateful that I got up early enough to run while it was still at a reasonable temperature.
The run was...amazing. I am still not able to run the entire length, but I did run farther than I had in a long time. I was even able to conquer a hill or two while I was running. My legs did not hurt as much (due in large part because I finally took the time to properly stretch). And the best thing of all...I got another nod from a fellow (and extremely attractive) runner. My second nod!
The hubby said that I am slowly entering into the runner's world/culture and asked me how I felt about it. Well, I still do not feel like I am a runner, but slowly I feel like I am being welcomed the more I run. The funny thing is, I've always hated running in public. I knew that I hated running, I was never slim enough to make anyone believe that I was ever a runner, and I am sure that I looked goofy running, and these reasons kept me from running in public. I always thought that people would think one of two things if they saw me running:
1. "Her fat-ass should be running"
2. "Boy she looks pathetic trying to run"
I know that this stems from me having horrible encounters with the most insensitive of people throughout my life. As we all recall, I have always had a problem with my weight. I will never forget the time when I told a family member that I lost 5 pounds. I was 14 years old, so proud of this achievement, and their response was "well, I can't see it." Or the time when I ordered a dessert to celebrate a good grade, the person next to me in line told his friend "now, you know she does not need to eat that," and there was only me and them in the cafe. I have had several encounters like this throughout my life, which has made me want to hide in my house and never want to be seen by anyone. So when I am running in public, on the streets of this city, or anywhere there are people around, I feel incredibly exposed and vulnerable because I am out there for everyone to see me struggle through this weakness, running. I guess I always thought that if people were not sensitive enough to be kind during the times of celebration, I did not need to expose my weakness for them to be even more cruel to me, during my times of struggle.
I am pretty sure that a lot of people felt invisible during high school and there was always someone that we wanted to acknowledge us in the slightest of ways, either through a nod, a smile, or a wink. I remember those days and when it happened, I could not help but think and feel that I finally mattered and that I was not invisible any more. And I cannot help but feel the same way every time another runner nods at me when I am trying to push through this journey. Finally the mean girls (and guys) have gone away and I am finally being noticed and celebrated for my effort. As I run more and get more nods, I am hoping, and finding, that my insecurities are slowly melting away.
The run was...amazing. I am still not able to run the entire length, but I did run farther than I had in a long time. I was even able to conquer a hill or two while I was running. My legs did not hurt as much (due in large part because I finally took the time to properly stretch). And the best thing of all...I got another nod from a fellow (and extremely attractive) runner. My second nod!
The hubby said that I am slowly entering into the runner's world/culture and asked me how I felt about it. Well, I still do not feel like I am a runner, but slowly I feel like I am being welcomed the more I run. The funny thing is, I've always hated running in public. I knew that I hated running, I was never slim enough to make anyone believe that I was ever a runner, and I am sure that I looked goofy running, and these reasons kept me from running in public. I always thought that people would think one of two things if they saw me running:
1. "Her fat-ass should be running"
2. "Boy she looks pathetic trying to run"
I know that this stems from me having horrible encounters with the most insensitive of people throughout my life. As we all recall, I have always had a problem with my weight. I will never forget the time when I told a family member that I lost 5 pounds. I was 14 years old, so proud of this achievement, and their response was "well, I can't see it." Or the time when I ordered a dessert to celebrate a good grade, the person next to me in line told his friend "now, you know she does not need to eat that," and there was only me and them in the cafe. I have had several encounters like this throughout my life, which has made me want to hide in my house and never want to be seen by anyone. So when I am running in public, on the streets of this city, or anywhere there are people around, I feel incredibly exposed and vulnerable because I am out there for everyone to see me struggle through this weakness, running. I guess I always thought that if people were not sensitive enough to be kind during the times of celebration, I did not need to expose my weakness for them to be even more cruel to me, during my times of struggle.
I am pretty sure that a lot of people felt invisible during high school and there was always someone that we wanted to acknowledge us in the slightest of ways, either through a nod, a smile, or a wink. I remember those days and when it happened, I could not help but think and feel that I finally mattered and that I was not invisible any more. And I cannot help but feel the same way every time another runner nods at me when I am trying to push through this journey. Finally the mean girls (and guys) have gone away and I am finally being noticed and celebrated for my effort. As I run more and get more nods, I am hoping, and finding, that my insecurities are slowly melting away.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Training Day 10
I've been lazy. It seems that by body has gotten use to the week off. Even though I slept through my alarm clock, I managed to roll myself out of bed and ran early this morning. It was a good thing because it rained later that morning. I stupidly started walking for a warm-up to the first song playing on my IPod and began running promptly when the 2nd song began. I did not stretch. I just wanted to get this run over with as soon as possible.
As I get into my groove, I notice that I am running a little faster and that I am not nearly out of breath as I was in the beginning. I was running, listening to music, and trying to give myself a positive pep talk, when it happened..... Another runner waved and smiled at me. For some strange reason, this random act of kindness made me feel as if I was a respected member of the ultra exclusive runner's club. I continue running with the new found sense of confidence, only to be confronted by this hill that I cannot seem to get past. I stop for a few moments to gather all my strength to run up this hill. I was determined to finally run, without stopping on this hill. Well that (bleep) (bleep) (bleep) (bleep) hill beat me again. It was at this moment I thought to myself that maybe I should try cycling, tennis, or some other sport. But then I came to my senses when I remembered that I just paid the registration for this half-marathon.
I will beat this hill one day soon because it is stopping me from completing my 3 mile-run goal.
As I get into my groove, I notice that I am running a little faster and that I am not nearly out of breath as I was in the beginning. I was running, listening to music, and trying to give myself a positive pep talk, when it happened..... Another runner waved and smiled at me. For some strange reason, this random act of kindness made me feel as if I was a respected member of the ultra exclusive runner's club. I continue running with the new found sense of confidence, only to be confronted by this hill that I cannot seem to get past. I stop for a few moments to gather all my strength to run up this hill. I was determined to finally run, without stopping on this hill. Well that (bleep) (bleep) (bleep) (bleep) hill beat me again. It was at this moment I thought to myself that maybe I should try cycling, tennis, or some other sport. But then I came to my senses when I remembered that I just paid the registration for this half-marathon.
I will beat this hill one day soon because it is stopping me from completing my 3 mile-run goal.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Training Day 9
It has almost been an entire week since I have trained and I am not happy about it. The hubby has started summer school, which starts at 7am. Sucks for me, because I will not run before 6am for safety reasons, I do not want to run the risk of being late and possibly jeopardize his job. So, my only option has been to run in the evening. However, I am trying to complete my first two MBA courses, which has taken up more of time night-time than I really cared for this week. So today was the first day I was truly free from my obligations to run in the evening. Now, added to all this, there is a heat wave in KCMO and I am no fool. I maybe able to face my fear of running in the rain, but I am not about to battle it with the sun.
Oh my! How my body has enjoyed this week of rest and have forgotten about training. I know that it can do better than what is gave me today. I walked more than I ran. However, I must say that I was really impressed with my lung capacity because I wasn't out of breath. What did me in for the short run, was the cramp in my side. It seems that no matter how early I try to eat, I keep getting these cramps in the evenings. But this cramp was not as bad as my first one last week. My legs wanted to give out after I ran 2 blocks. Truth be told, my mind was preoccupied with issues that I am dealing with in my life, which will soon be aided by glasses of wine. I am not to keen on consuming more calories than I burn, but I have yet to come across a better way of doing in than by by the glass or chocolate mouthful. Wine and chocolate, there is not better combo, other than wine and more wine. Yet, it was good to get out, work out, and clear my head.
On another note, I finally paid my marathon dues, which is a huge step, because as much as I hate running, I never thought I would be paying to do it. The Dia two years ago, would have much rather used that money for the club. Now, my next task to invest in a quality running shoe, that is of course on sale because this running is no paying full price for something I do not like to do in the first place. So I am planning on going to one of the running stores to get my stride evaluated to find the best shoe for my situation. Ultimately, I am looking for George Jetson shoes that will rocket me to the finish line. Hey, all I can do is hope.
Oh my! How my body has enjoyed this week of rest and have forgotten about training. I know that it can do better than what is gave me today. I walked more than I ran. However, I must say that I was really impressed with my lung capacity because I wasn't out of breath. What did me in for the short run, was the cramp in my side. It seems that no matter how early I try to eat, I keep getting these cramps in the evenings. But this cramp was not as bad as my first one last week. My legs wanted to give out after I ran 2 blocks. Truth be told, my mind was preoccupied with issues that I am dealing with in my life, which will soon be aided by glasses of wine. I am not to keen on consuming more calories than I burn, but I have yet to come across a better way of doing in than by by the glass or chocolate mouthful. Wine and chocolate, there is not better combo, other than wine and more wine. Yet, it was good to get out, work out, and clear my head.
On another note, I finally paid my marathon dues, which is a huge step, because as much as I hate running, I never thought I would be paying to do it. The Dia two years ago, would have much rather used that money for the club. Now, my next task to invest in a quality running shoe, that is of course on sale because this running is no paying full price for something I do not like to do in the first place. So I am planning on going to one of the running stores to get my stride evaluated to find the best shoe for my situation. Ultimately, I am looking for George Jetson shoes that will rocket me to the finish line. Hey, all I can do is hope.
Training Day 8
So my in laws are coming into town and I know that training will be harder to complete because I should be the gracious hostess. Truth be told, Martha Stewart has set that bar so high, I would like to meet any woman who has been able to meet it. Needless to say, I was extra motivated to go farther than my usual 2 miles. So I decided that tonight, after everyone was settled in, I would go for a 3 mile run. As usual, I did not run the entire course, but hey, I was happy that I was out running, which is rare.
I can see that I am building strength. But I am so impatient with results. Maybe my mind is warped from all this instant technology and gratification. Anything I want, I can have it in an instant in this life. I want cookies, I go to the store, I don't have to go through the entire hour of labor to get it. I want to be entertained, I have a TV and internet that will instantly offer laughs. I ultimately want to be able to achieve my goal quickly to start working on the new goal. My goal is to run 3 miles so that I may start working on running 5 miles, without stopping. I feel that I should be able to run 3 miles because I want it badly. However, I have to recognize the limitations of my body. After being sedentary for so long, I have to give it time to catch up with my heart's desire, which in makes my brain what to curse the rest of my body out. I always knew that this would not be an easy process and I am now truly facing the reality.
I can see that I am building strength. But I am so impatient with results. Maybe my mind is warped from all this instant technology and gratification. Anything I want, I can have it in an instant in this life. I want cookies, I go to the store, I don't have to go through the entire hour of labor to get it. I want to be entertained, I have a TV and internet that will instantly offer laughs. I ultimately want to be able to achieve my goal quickly to start working on the new goal. My goal is to run 3 miles so that I may start working on running 5 miles, without stopping. I feel that I should be able to run 3 miles because I want it badly. However, I have to recognize the limitations of my body. After being sedentary for so long, I have to give it time to catch up with my heart's desire, which in makes my brain what to curse the rest of my body out. I always knew that this would not be an easy process and I am now truly facing the reality.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Training Day 7
G-d rested on the 7th day...... and so did I. I know that I cannot run everyday like a mad woman without a day of rest sometime within the week. No one should as it is clearly stated in the good book. So I am taking a cue from the one above and resting. However, I am also using the day for some good. First my body is resting from all the abuse, I mean exercise it has been receiving over the past week. I can already notice that my legs are not sore and feel healthier, stronger, maybe a little sexier ;)
Second, I can already notice the improvements to my mood. Third, I can tell some other changes in me, like dedication, before I would never run in the rain and this week I did. I continue to struggle with waking up at the crack of dawn to eat and stretch 90 minutes before running. I was told that my blood pressure it perfect...what awesome news considering that high blood pressure does run in my family. Lastly, I went from barely running more than a block to being able to lightly jog more than 2 miles...who cares that I run slower than what I can walk! I ran farther than ever before and I actually enjoyed it. Maybe next week I will finally achieve that runner's high.
Second, I can already notice the improvements to my mood. Third, I can tell some other changes in me, like dedication, before I would never run in the rain and this week I did. I continue to struggle with waking up at the crack of dawn to eat and stretch 90 minutes before running. I was told that my blood pressure it perfect...what awesome news considering that high blood pressure does run in my family. Lastly, I went from barely running more than a block to being able to lightly jog more than 2 miles...who cares that I run slower than what I can walk! I ran farther than ever before and I actually enjoyed it. Maybe next week I will finally achieve that runner's high.
Training Day 6
I seemed to not have heard my alarm clock this morning. By the time I woke up, it was already too hot to run. My only option was to run in the evening.
Evening came and my hubby suggested that we make it a family affair. So he loaded our son into his stroller and they walked while I jogged beside them. As I jogged my usual 2.25 mile route, I finally understood what the running websites were talking about when they suggest beginners to jog lightly and that jogging lightly meant running light enough that you can hold a conversation with another person or sing happy birthday. Throughout my entire jog, I talked with my family....dare I might say that I enjoyed my jog :-0 I might also mentioned that I completed the 2.25 mile with one stop on that very steep hill....I can see that this will be an uphill battle.
Although I enjoyed the jog and that I was able to run farther than ever before, I did notice that it appeared that my light jog was as slow as a turtle and that I can probably walk faster than what I ran. But hey, I have to start somewhere. As I was running and we were talking about how slow I had to run to run such a long distance, we couldn't help but compare myself to that old famous fable of the Tortoise and the Hare, where slow and steady wins the race. At this time, I told the hubby, I am not looking to be first across the finish line. In fact I am aiming to be dead last across the finish line, at least that way I can say that I finished the race and didn't quit or drop out. So I will be the big, post pregnancy-weight, tortoise, getting my stories mixed up chanting "I think I can, I think I can, I think I can,"running out there with all these other professional runners, aiming for dead last in this race...but to me it will be sweet victory as it will be my first completed half-marathon. That my friends, is something that I am really looking forward to.
On a positive note, my blood pressure is perfect and I am noticing certain articles of clothing are getting less snug...could it be weight-loss! I will let you know when I get to the next size down.
Evening came and my hubby suggested that we make it a family affair. So he loaded our son into his stroller and they walked while I jogged beside them. As I jogged my usual 2.25 mile route, I finally understood what the running websites were talking about when they suggest beginners to jog lightly and that jogging lightly meant running light enough that you can hold a conversation with another person or sing happy birthday. Throughout my entire jog, I talked with my family....dare I might say that I enjoyed my jog :-0 I might also mentioned that I completed the 2.25 mile with one stop on that very steep hill....I can see that this will be an uphill battle.
Although I enjoyed the jog and that I was able to run farther than ever before, I did notice that it appeared that my light jog was as slow as a turtle and that I can probably walk faster than what I ran. But hey, I have to start somewhere. As I was running and we were talking about how slow I had to run to run such a long distance, we couldn't help but compare myself to that old famous fable of the Tortoise and the Hare, where slow and steady wins the race. At this time, I told the hubby, I am not looking to be first across the finish line. In fact I am aiming to be dead last across the finish line, at least that way I can say that I finished the race and didn't quit or drop out. So I will be the big, post pregnancy-weight, tortoise, getting my stories mixed up chanting "I think I can, I think I can, I think I can,"running out there with all these other professional runners, aiming for dead last in this race...but to me it will be sweet victory as it will be my first completed half-marathon. That my friends, is something that I am really looking forward to.
On a positive note, my blood pressure is perfect and I am noticing certain articles of clothing are getting less snug...could it be weight-loss! I will let you know when I get to the next size down.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Training Day 5
I woke up early today to run, foolishly on an empty stomach and no water in my system. I know it was foolish and I soon recognized how foolish this was because I marched my behind back home after 10 minutes.
So, I decided that I would try an evening run because I've never run in the evening and thought it would be smart for me to determine which time of the day I would enjoy running more. So about 90 minutes after dinner I decided to go running. I am running as light (whatever that means, as it is all a struggle) as I can and...OUCH, I have a cramp. I continue to walk through the pain, half of me wanting to return home, the other half wanting to complete the workout. I decided with the latter. I walked the entire 2.25 miles I had mapped out through the pain. It felt a little bittersweet because I planned to run the entire time and I simply could not do it because of the amount of pain. Yet, it was sweet because I took the time to really focus on my leg muscles and tried to get the most out of the workout.
I decided that I like running more in the morning than in the evening. Now, I have to try to coordinate a schedule that will allow me a snack and water well before my early morning run, and I am not a morning person. I knew this process would no be easy and that training would require regular sacrifices from me. So, I guess my first sacrifice would be sleeping in. "Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man health, wealthy, and wise." I have heard this quote so many times in my life and rarely followed it. Maybe because I stay up late and sleep late, I have not made it to health or wealthy. This, I know for sure, I am willing to make the sacrifice to become health and make it across the half-marathon finish line. And if, G-d wants to throw in some wealth for my efforts, I will gladly accept it as an added bonus.
On a positive note, my legs are feeling better, almost rejuvenated. I have noticed my energy level increase. Some may say that I am spry and have a spring in my step. I can also tell that my mood has greatly increased and I feel more positive about things, more than I had in a long time. This new positive thinking is truly a gift because for many years I have suffered in silence with depression. I am welcoming the changes that running is giving me and I look forward to many more. Do I still hate running? Yes. Have I experienced that runner's high? No, but I will definitely need as I continue my training.
So, I decided that I would try an evening run because I've never run in the evening and thought it would be smart for me to determine which time of the day I would enjoy running more. So about 90 minutes after dinner I decided to go running. I am running as light (whatever that means, as it is all a struggle) as I can and...OUCH, I have a cramp. I continue to walk through the pain, half of me wanting to return home, the other half wanting to complete the workout. I decided with the latter. I walked the entire 2.25 miles I had mapped out through the pain. It felt a little bittersweet because I planned to run the entire time and I simply could not do it because of the amount of pain. Yet, it was sweet because I took the time to really focus on my leg muscles and tried to get the most out of the workout.
I decided that I like running more in the morning than in the evening. Now, I have to try to coordinate a schedule that will allow me a snack and water well before my early morning run, and I am not a morning person. I knew this process would no be easy and that training would require regular sacrifices from me. So, I guess my first sacrifice would be sleeping in. "Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man health, wealthy, and wise." I have heard this quote so many times in my life and rarely followed it. Maybe because I stay up late and sleep late, I have not made it to health or wealthy. This, I know for sure, I am willing to make the sacrifice to become health and make it across the half-marathon finish line. And if, G-d wants to throw in some wealth for my efforts, I will gladly accept it as an added bonus.
On a positive note, my legs are feeling better, almost rejuvenated. I have noticed my energy level increase. Some may say that I am spry and have a spring in my step. I can also tell that my mood has greatly increased and I feel more positive about things, more than I had in a long time. This new positive thinking is truly a gift because for many years I have suffered in silence with depression. I am welcoming the changes that running is giving me and I look forward to many more. Do I still hate running? Yes. Have I experienced that runner's high? No, but I will definitely need as I continue my training.
Training Day 4
As I am so new to running, I have decided that I should study the sport, like I would study anything else that I want to get into. So I have spent much of my morning researching how to run, running for beginners, and an appropriate training schedule for me to follow to get me ready for the marathon. What I discovered was this:
Second, I was socked that I was instructed on many sites that I should be running 3 miles for my long-distance run this week, while the rest of the week I should have been running between 2 to 2.5 miles. However, the most shocking advice I received was this: while running the long distance portion this week, I should be running light enough to hold a conversation with someone, or being able to sing the Happy Birthday song. It seems to me, it doesn't matter how "light" I am running, I am always out of breath. I am trying to conserve my energy to survive the run, not trying to hold conversation with people...and I am for sure not trying to sing during this time. Maybe, after I run some more, I will understand what they are talking about...but for now this is a concept I cannot seem to grasp.
Either way I ran/walked the 3 miles in about 1 hour. It felt good to accomplish this goal this week. I am looking forward to the time when I can actually run through the entire workout.
- I should be eating a small snack 90 minutes before running
- I should be drinking a few glasses of water 90 minutes before running
- For my first week I should be running 3 miles as my long-distance run.
Second, I was socked that I was instructed on many sites that I should be running 3 miles for my long-distance run this week, while the rest of the week I should have been running between 2 to 2.5 miles. However, the most shocking advice I received was this: while running the long distance portion this week, I should be running light enough to hold a conversation with someone, or being able to sing the Happy Birthday song. It seems to me, it doesn't matter how "light" I am running, I am always out of breath. I am trying to conserve my energy to survive the run, not trying to hold conversation with people...and I am for sure not trying to sing during this time. Maybe, after I run some more, I will understand what they are talking about...but for now this is a concept I cannot seem to grasp.
Either way I ran/walked the 3 miles in about 1 hour. It felt good to accomplish this goal this week. I am looking forward to the time when I can actually run through the entire workout.
Training Day 3
Day 3 - My legs hurt. I guess it is that "good" pain people are always talking about after having a "good" workout. Either way my legs hurt and I feel like when I sit, I cannot get up because they hurt so bad. Therefore, today's training will consist of a lot of BenGay and gardening.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Training Day 2!
Yesterday I went running/walking at Loose Park. I walked more than I ran, but I felt like I accomplished a small goal of getting out of bed and begin exercising, instead of my usual of getting out of bed and finding something to eat.
Today, it was raining. Before committing to this half-marathon, I used rain as an excuse to get out of any physical activity, especially for being a Black woman. Lucky for me, my hair is curly and I didn't have to worry about my hair being a hot mess after having it rained on. Today, I became one of those "crazies" running in the rain that I have always secretly admired and thought were a little loco. But I have come to have a healthy understanding of why they run in the rain....if you run in the rain you will remain cool. Such a novel idea I never thought of. Today I have already noticed that I can run farther than I had yesterday. However, hills continue to be a huge obstacle for me that I will need to continue working on.
By the way - I am starting out in a size 16. I will get my measurements when I regain my energy to take them. I am very interested is seeing how this will continue to change during my journey and will keep you all updated as well.
Today, it was raining. Before committing to this half-marathon, I used rain as an excuse to get out of any physical activity, especially for being a Black woman. Lucky for me, my hair is curly and I didn't have to worry about my hair being a hot mess after having it rained on. Today, I became one of those "crazies" running in the rain that I have always secretly admired and thought were a little loco. But I have come to have a healthy understanding of why they run in the rain....if you run in the rain you will remain cool. Such a novel idea I never thought of. Today I have already noticed that I can run farther than I had yesterday. However, hills continue to be a huge obstacle for me that I will need to continue working on.
By the way - I am starting out in a size 16. I will get my measurements when I regain my energy to take them. I am very interested is seeing how this will continue to change during my journey and will keep you all updated as well.
What did I get myself in to?
Hi! Welcome to my blog. My name is Dia. I live in Kansas City with my family. I am so happy that you decided to come to my blog and learn more about my journey from being an admitted couch potato to running the half-marathon in 4 months.
Well how did this all start? Well I have almost always been a couch potato and my body showed it. All my life I have either been overweight or obese. The smallest clothing size I've was ever able to fit into was a size 10 and this was after many years of weight watchers and gym memberships. Like many people with weight problems, I was, and probably still am, insecure about the way I look because I have been treated differently, and at times cruelly, because of my weight.
So, I am 6 months away from my 30th birthday...and let's say that I am experiencing something of a midlife crisis. I've realized that I just blew through my 20s not accomplishing many goals I set in my early 20s, one of them being running. Along with all the health benefits, I have heard of people getting that "runner's high" and actually enjoying running. I thought that if I ran enough, then maybe I would be able to achieve these results too....along with an amazing runner's body.
The problem was, I hated running! I still do. I wanted the results without doing the work, which by the way doesn't work in life. The only running I did was to the refrigerator!
So, one night I was at a neighbor's house cooking dinner for all the families when she spoke about her plans to run in the Kansas City 10K and asked if I would like to join her. I immediately thought it was a great idea and told her I would love to join her. Only to find out that this race did not have a 10K...they had a 5K or a half marathon and she was signing up for the half marathon. Well, I didn't want to been seen as weak, so, I joined in and agreed to do it, not realizing that a half-marathon is 13.1 miles!
Now, I am training for the half-marathon and though this would be a great way to finally get into the shape I've always wanted to be in before I turned 30. Along with that thought, I thought that this blog would be a great way to jot my thoughts about running, the good and the bad, and hopefully encourage others who are facing a challenge in life they would like to overcome.
That is the story about me, my life, and my situation. I am looking forward to running across the finish line of this half-marathon and sharing my journey to everyone who is interested in learning how a couch potato is training to complete a half-marathon.
Well how did this all start? Well I have almost always been a couch potato and my body showed it. All my life I have either been overweight or obese. The smallest clothing size I've was ever able to fit into was a size 10 and this was after many years of weight watchers and gym memberships. Like many people with weight problems, I was, and probably still am, insecure about the way I look because I have been treated differently, and at times cruelly, because of my weight.
So, I am 6 months away from my 30th birthday...and let's say that I am experiencing something of a midlife crisis. I've realized that I just blew through my 20s not accomplishing many goals I set in my early 20s, one of them being running. Along with all the health benefits, I have heard of people getting that "runner's high" and actually enjoying running. I thought that if I ran enough, then maybe I would be able to achieve these results too....along with an amazing runner's body.
The problem was, I hated running! I still do. I wanted the results without doing the work, which by the way doesn't work in life. The only running I did was to the refrigerator!
So, one night I was at a neighbor's house cooking dinner for all the families when she spoke about her plans to run in the Kansas City 10K and asked if I would like to join her. I immediately thought it was a great idea and told her I would love to join her. Only to find out that this race did not have a 10K...they had a 5K or a half marathon and she was signing up for the half marathon. Well, I didn't want to been seen as weak, so, I joined in and agreed to do it, not realizing that a half-marathon is 13.1 miles!
Now, I am training for the half-marathon and though this would be a great way to finally get into the shape I've always wanted to be in before I turned 30. Along with that thought, I thought that this blog would be a great way to jot my thoughts about running, the good and the bad, and hopefully encourage others who are facing a challenge in life they would like to overcome.
That is the story about me, my life, and my situation. I am looking forward to running across the finish line of this half-marathon and sharing my journey to everyone who is interested in learning how a couch potato is training to complete a half-marathon.
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