Man, I keep forgetting to post my logs on the day I actually do the workouts!
On the 20th, I did the P90X workout Legs and Back and Ab Ripper. I am proud to say that I did every exercise/move to my best ability! Now that it's two days later, I am so freakin' sore! Today is supposed to be my big run day but there's no way. I just rode the bike and walked around the track for a bit.
I have been eating like a PIG this week and I really need to quit it. I was doing so well and I just crashed and bombed this week. But next week is a new week! Plus, I'm going jean shopping next weekend so I better eat well so I'm not a blimp when I try on jeans...that's no fun.
Another thing that's been on my mind is the idea of joining a running club. There's one at BYU and one at a local running store. BYU is about half the price of the runner store club, but I'm not sure if I want to join a club at BYU. I have my reasons. :) Hopefully I can figure it out soon. Iknow it's not a huge life-changing decision, but it kind of is for me, haha. I can finally get my distance running in order!
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Log 8/19/09
This log is a day late, but that's okay. I'm still recording it!
Tony has been a little sick lately and I felt like I was catching his bug. Last night I had made up my mind to lounge around to avoid being sick. Around 9:30pm I changed my mind and went for a run. I finally had my iPod cord so I could load Beethoven onto my ipod.
I was planning on an easy jog while Beethoven inspired me to do my best. I began the symphony after a short warm up and man, did it ROCK! I never realized how inspirational it is to listen to classical music when you run! I made it through the first rockin' movement and then slowed my run down a bit.
I've been reading a book for beginning runners by Jeff Galloway and he talks about how when you run, your right brain is more active because of the nature of the exercise. He challenges his readers to see the pictures that your right brain develops as its creativity is flowing. So, I listened. I slowed my tredmill down a bit, held on to the side bars, and closed my eyes. The music was inspiring my right brain for sure, as I could see myself effortlessly running through meadows filled with wildflowers. The soft grass felt good on my feet and my knee was perfect! I opened my eyes and laughed a little. Then...it happened......
I sped my tredmill back up to my running pace and suddenly I felt a glorious tingle that started in my head and ran all the way to my toes. At that moment I felt like I was running on clouds! I upped my speed quite a bit and ran harder and faster than I ever have--with little to no effort.
It finally happened to me...I had a runner's high.
It was, without question, the best run of my life. And it was only 3 miles long on my easy day. :)
Tony has been a little sick lately and I felt like I was catching his bug. Last night I had made up my mind to lounge around to avoid being sick. Around 9:30pm I changed my mind and went for a run. I finally had my iPod cord so I could load Beethoven onto my ipod.
I was planning on an easy jog while Beethoven inspired me to do my best. I began the symphony after a short warm up and man, did it ROCK! I never realized how inspirational it is to listen to classical music when you run! I made it through the first rockin' movement and then slowed my run down a bit.
I've been reading a book for beginning runners by Jeff Galloway and he talks about how when you run, your right brain is more active because of the nature of the exercise. He challenges his readers to see the pictures that your right brain develops as its creativity is flowing. So, I listened. I slowed my tredmill down a bit, held on to the side bars, and closed my eyes. The music was inspiring my right brain for sure, as I could see myself effortlessly running through meadows filled with wildflowers. The soft grass felt good on my feet and my knee was perfect! I opened my eyes and laughed a little. Then...it happened......
I sped my tredmill back up to my running pace and suddenly I felt a glorious tingle that started in my head and ran all the way to my toes. At that moment I felt like I was running on clouds! I upped my speed quite a bit and ran harder and faster than I ever have--with little to no effort.
It finally happened to me...I had a runner's high.
It was, without question, the best run of my life. And it was only 3 miles long on my easy day. :)
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Log 8/18/2009
Today I did P90X Arms and Shoulders workout with a little Ab Ripper thrown in the mix. I am a former P90X dropout and so hopefully these workouts won't intimidate me like last time.
I can tell that it did a lot for my body because I felt sore and tired immediately after my workout ended. Washing my hair was quite the chore in the shower and curling it was even harder! I'm trying to up the intensity level a bit so that I can get results.
Hopefully I don't ruin all my good work at the Cheesecake Factory. I haven't heard too many nutritious things about the food there. I'll try to be good...maybe.
I can tell that it did a lot for my body because I felt sore and tired immediately after my workout ended. Washing my hair was quite the chore in the shower and curling it was even harder! I'm trying to up the intensity level a bit so that I can get results.
Hopefully I don't ruin all my good work at the Cheesecake Factory. I haven't heard too many nutritious things about the food there. I'll try to be good...maybe.
Already Foiled!
So, today I was planning on counting calories and doing some hardcore lifting. I'm still planning on doing that but we are celebrating our 3 year anniversary tonight and where are we probably going to go?
The Cheesecake Factory.
I love this place. I love cheesecake. I am already (at 10am) figuring out what to eat at this place so that I don't gain 5 pounds--which I am sure I successfully did on the weekend haha. I've found from researching a bit that the salads there, while yummy, are huge and not healthy at all. I looked around on their menu and found the Appetizer Salads. I found one full of good veggies (even edimame!) and I'm sure I could pick a lower fat dressing for it. So, entree solved.
But I'm still back to my first problem: the Cheesecake. I noticed a Low-carb cheesecake on the menu but after looking up it's nutritional value--impossible to find, they keep it locked up tight!--I've found that it has tons of calories and fat! Maybe I'll skip out on the Cheesecake for the sake of the "bikini bod" I'm lusting after.
Has anyone sucessfully been to the Cheesecake Factory without gaining 5 pounds? Do tell. DO tell.
The Cheesecake Factory.
I love this place. I love cheesecake. I am already (at 10am) figuring out what to eat at this place so that I don't gain 5 pounds--which I am sure I successfully did on the weekend haha. I've found from researching a bit that the salads there, while yummy, are huge and not healthy at all. I looked around on their menu and found the Appetizer Salads. I found one full of good veggies (even edimame!) and I'm sure I could pick a lower fat dressing for it. So, entree solved.
But I'm still back to my first problem: the Cheesecake. I noticed a Low-carb cheesecake on the menu but after looking up it's nutritional value--impossible to find, they keep it locked up tight!--I've found that it has tons of calories and fat! Maybe I'll skip out on the Cheesecake for the sake of the "bikini bod" I'm lusting after.
Has anyone sucessfully been to the Cheesecake Factory without gaining 5 pounds? Do tell. DO tell.
Monday, August 17, 2009
My Training Blog
I have decided to make this blog my training log. I will then not only be accountable to myself--but to everyone who reads this blog! Which, lucky for me, is like two people. I am sick of hitting all of these plateaus and having lapses in my fitness goals. I need to keep myself accountable.
I have found a fitness regimen by Jillian Michaels for people with <20 pounds to lose. She talks a lot about how people with that much weight to lose have to really step up the intensity. I still plan on following the Biggest Loser 30 day meal plan, but my workouts are going to change quite a bit.
I'll post my first log sometime tonight (I'm hoping). If not tonight then for sure, 100% tomorrow. I'm going to get this!
Wish me luck!
I have found a fitness regimen by Jillian Michaels for people with <20 pounds to lose. She talks a lot about how people with that much weight to lose have to really step up the intensity. I still plan on following the Biggest Loser 30 day meal plan, but my workouts are going to change quite a bit.
I'll post my first log sometime tonight (I'm hoping). If not tonight then for sure, 100% tomorrow. I'm going to get this!
Wish me luck!
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Beat Beethoven!
I've found a new race! Next month Pleasant Grove is hosting a 5K race for Pleasant Grove Heritage Days called "Can You Beat Beethoven?" It's awesome--they play Beethoven's 5th over loud speakers for the duration of the race, and people who finish before the last note of the symphony (approx. 32 minutes) get a pin that says "I beat Beethoven!" I began training today so that I can totally beat Beethoven. I know for some finishing a 5K in 32 minutes is no biggie, but I've never focused on speedwork so this is a new challenge for me.
I am so stoked to beat Beethoven. I have 5 weeks to conquer this composer, and I'm going to do it.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
XT?
Today I decided to ride a stationary bike for my workout because the heels of my feet were killing me. I think it had something to do with walking around a carnival in flip flops all day yesterday. I brought the latest issue of my Runner's World magazine to help keep me from going insane. (I ended up only reading it on the commercials of What Not to Wear...loove that show!) I've been interested in this issue because it has been dedicated to Half Marathons. It talks about programs for seasoned marathoners and beginners, and those in-between as well.
I'm not planning on running any halfs anytime soon, but I AM training for a 10K and I'm always looking for opinions on how I should train. Especially now, as my knee is worse than ever before. It used to be that I would run, my knee would hurt for about a mile, and then it would go away. Nowadays my knee hurts the instant I begin to run, and only gets progressively worse throughout the workout. UGH.
Back to my point. I read through the suggested training schedule for beginners, and was amazed at how much XT was on the schedule! (that's cross-training for those who didn't know) With my previous programs, there was hardly any (if any at all) cross training on the schedule. Cross training is awesome because you can choose any activity you want, as long as it isn't running! ALSO, the only workout measured in distance is your Saturday long runs. The rest say something like 40 min run, 50 min run, etc. Same with the cross training. The woman who designed this program, Jenny Hadfield, emphasizes that for beginners it's all about slow, steady improvements and that cross training is a huge part of that training so that you can avoid injuries, fatigue, and BOREDOM.
I think I'm going to give it a shot. Jenny mentions in the article that most beginning runners keep sticking to their schedules even if their bodies don't adapt. I feel that I do that. She claims that her program will help beginner runners' bodies adapt to the changes of running long distances. I'll let you all know how it goes.
If you want to see the program, try visiting runnersworld.com, or leave a comment and I can let you in on it ;)
I'm not planning on running any halfs anytime soon, but I AM training for a 10K and I'm always looking for opinions on how I should train. Especially now, as my knee is worse than ever before. It used to be that I would run, my knee would hurt for about a mile, and then it would go away. Nowadays my knee hurts the instant I begin to run, and only gets progressively worse throughout the workout. UGH.
Back to my point. I read through the suggested training schedule for beginners, and was amazed at how much XT was on the schedule! (that's cross-training for those who didn't know) With my previous programs, there was hardly any (if any at all) cross training on the schedule. Cross training is awesome because you can choose any activity you want, as long as it isn't running! ALSO, the only workout measured in distance is your Saturday long runs. The rest say something like 40 min run, 50 min run, etc. Same with the cross training. The woman who designed this program, Jenny Hadfield, emphasizes that for beginners it's all about slow, steady improvements and that cross training is a huge part of that training so that you can avoid injuries, fatigue, and BOREDOM.
I think I'm going to give it a shot. Jenny mentions in the article that most beginning runners keep sticking to their schedules even if their bodies don't adapt. I feel that I do that. She claims that her program will help beginner runners' bodies adapt to the changes of running long distances. I'll let you all know how it goes.
If you want to see the program, try visiting runnersworld.com, or leave a comment and I can let you in on it ;)
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
4th of July 5K
Well, we did it. I sucessfully convinced Tony and his parents to complete a 5K with me this past Saturday for the 4th. We all did really well for our different levels. Tony (he's a fast guy) finished 2nd in his age division! I was so proud of him! This was his first race ever. I knew he would do well because he likes the short, faster distances.
I was hoping to beat my last 5k time by four minutes and I was on good pace to do so, but right around mile 1 I twisted my knee by slipping on some loose rocks causing causing me to have to walk some of the race. BUMMER! But, despite being injured, I finished 12th in my age division and was right around my last 5K time. I was pleased to know that I am indeed faster than I was before since I walked some of the race and finished at a similar pace.
I was glad to have watched the movie "The Spirit of the Marathon" a couple nights before the race. I didn't watch it FOR the race, but just because I thought it looked interesting and I've been wanting to see it for a while. There was a girl on there who was talking about how you can train and train until you're brains melt out of your ears and be more ready than ever for your race, but if your body isn't feeling up to it that day, there's nothing you can do! It's kind of discouraging, but kind of ENcouraging at the same time. Yeah, I was a little sad that I didn't get a better time, but it wasn't because I wasn't good enough. My body just didn't let me finish the way I wanted to. That's always something I will have to deal with as a runner. So, there's my take-home message for the day.
In other news, I am planning for my first ever 10K! I started the training program yesterday and I've picked out a race that I'd like to do in Park City, Utah. For those who don't know, a 10K is 6.4 miles--twice a 5K. I have gone that distance before, but only ONCE. In my training I'm going to work up slowly to it for an 8-week period. I'm so excited! I'm also trying a new diet system to hopefully shed some poundage. I'm sure that being 10lbs lighter will help my running immensely.
My BIG goal that I've recently set is to run the Half Marathon in the SLC Marathon events next April (2010). I ran my first 5K in that race and I think it's a pretty doable goal. I think I'll have plenty of training time. Then I'm going to train for the big dog, and complete my first marathon sometime after that. I'm not quite sure how long it takes to train for a marathon, but I am thinking the October following my half I would go down to St. George and run that race.
I'm crazy.
I was hoping to beat my last 5k time by four minutes and I was on good pace to do so, but right around mile 1 I twisted my knee by slipping on some loose rocks causing causing me to have to walk some of the race. BUMMER! But, despite being injured, I finished 12th in my age division and was right around my last 5K time. I was pleased to know that I am indeed faster than I was before since I walked some of the race and finished at a similar pace.
I was glad to have watched the movie "The Spirit of the Marathon" a couple nights before the race. I didn't watch it FOR the race, but just because I thought it looked interesting and I've been wanting to see it for a while. There was a girl on there who was talking about how you can train and train until you're brains melt out of your ears and be more ready than ever for your race, but if your body isn't feeling up to it that day, there's nothing you can do! It's kind of discouraging, but kind of ENcouraging at the same time. Yeah, I was a little sad that I didn't get a better time, but it wasn't because I wasn't good enough. My body just didn't let me finish the way I wanted to. That's always something I will have to deal with as a runner. So, there's my take-home message for the day.
In other news, I am planning for my first ever 10K! I started the training program yesterday and I've picked out a race that I'd like to do in Park City, Utah. For those who don't know, a 10K is 6.4 miles--twice a 5K. I have gone that distance before, but only ONCE. In my training I'm going to work up slowly to it for an 8-week period. I'm so excited! I'm also trying a new diet system to hopefully shed some poundage. I'm sure that being 10lbs lighter will help my running immensely.
My BIG goal that I've recently set is to run the Half Marathon in the SLC Marathon events next April (2010). I ran my first 5K in that race and I think it's a pretty doable goal. I think I'll have plenty of training time. Then I'm going to train for the big dog, and complete my first marathon sometime after that. I'm not quite sure how long it takes to train for a marathon, but I am thinking the October following my half I would go down to St. George and run that race.
I'm crazy.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Question Answered
So, my three workouts = OVERKILL! It didn't help that I decided to sprint a good chunk of my run on Tuesday night. Here I am sitting, it's Thursday, with dead legs and I haven't run since then. I did some stretching last night but it didn't help. I am sooo sore! I tried to get on the tredmill to time my mile but my legs gave out and I stumbled down to the floor. Luckily no one was watching me.
I better burn MEGA calories for this. 'Cause I'm hurting!
I better burn MEGA calories for this. 'Cause I'm hurting!
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Overkill?
I just might complete 3 fairly difficult workouts in 24 hours. Last night at 9pm I did the Jillian Michaels DVD, today I went to check out the local rec. center and took a cardio interval class, and I plan on doing my run tonight. Right now as I am just getting home from the cardio class, I am completely wiped out. I'm making breakfast to hopefully give me some energy, but my arms can't seem to move when my brain tells them to.
I know it might be a little excessive to do three workouts in a 24 hour period but honestly, I didn't MEAN to do it that way. I need to go on my run tonight because I've got the 5K in less than 10 days! I can't just do DVDs and cardio classes all the time. Hopefully I don't kill myself.
In other news, I'm going out today to buy some hiking shoes! Hoorah! Tony and I have become hiking fools and we're planning all of these crazy hikes. The week after our 5k we're hiking to Lone Peak (an estimated 6-8 hour ordeal), and in August we're taking a little anniversary trip down to Zion's National Park to hike the narrows (which will take us a couple of days. It's more of a backpacking trip). I'm stoked to get my new hiking kicks! I'll probably take a looksie at some running shorts to see what I can find as promised in my post below. If I find some on sale, I'll get them and try 'em out for the race.
I know it might be a little excessive to do three workouts in a 24 hour period but honestly, I didn't MEAN to do it that way. I need to go on my run tonight because I've got the 5K in less than 10 days! I can't just do DVDs and cardio classes all the time. Hopefully I don't kill myself.
In other news, I'm going out today to buy some hiking shoes! Hoorah! Tony and I have become hiking fools and we're planning all of these crazy hikes. The week after our 5k we're hiking to Lone Peak (an estimated 6-8 hour ordeal), and in August we're taking a little anniversary trip down to Zion's National Park to hike the narrows (which will take us a couple of days. It's more of a backpacking trip). I'm stoked to get my new hiking kicks! I'll probably take a looksie at some running shorts to see what I can find as promised in my post below. If I find some on sale, I'll get them and try 'em out for the race.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Shorty Shorts
I know I've already posted today, I'm just making up for lost time!
Actually, I have been researching a question I had about running gear and I thought I'd share the answers I've found. My question is kind of an embarassing one, but I got the courage to type it into Google.
What do I wear UNDER running shorts?!
I didn't know if my little spandex shorts, regular undies, or what were the best option. I've noticed that the things I've been using are soaked by the end of my run, causing some not-so-fun irritation on my legs.
The best answers I've found today are at this Marathon Training site, which basically says no undies under the shorts but I've found other sources that say microfiber undies work wonders as well.
I am going to try some of this stuff out, see if it works. Sorry if this is totally TMI for you--but I know you were curious about the same thing ;)
Actually, I have been researching a question I had about running gear and I thought I'd share the answers I've found. My question is kind of an embarassing one, but I got the courage to type it into Google.
What do I wear UNDER running shorts?!
I didn't know if my little spandex shorts, regular undies, or what were the best option. I've noticed that the things I've been using are soaked by the end of my run, causing some not-so-fun irritation on my legs.
The best answers I've found today are at this Marathon Training site, which basically says no undies under the shorts but I've found other sources that say microfiber undies work wonders as well.
I am going to try some of this stuff out, see if it works. Sorry if this is totally TMI for you--but I know you were curious about the same thing ;)
Fourth of July
I am running my second 5K on July 4th, early in the morning, before all of the BBQs and fireworks begin. I somehow convinced my mother-in-law and husband to join me, and we are registering this weekend for it. I may have to convince my handicapped sister-in-law to walk by her mom's side so we can get 5 bucks off for registering as a family. She'd like it, I'm sure. Especially since there is a free t-shirt involved! (Heck, that's why I'M running!)
I'm pretty excited to run another race. I'll be able to see what I can do without the first time race excitement. I hope to beat my time (34:11) and I am pretty confident I will seeing as how the first race I just wanted to finish it alive. Back then I was pretty inconsistent with whether or not I could even finish 3.2 miles. After having run 6 miles (I forgot to post about that!!!) with little to no problems, I am pretty sure this 5K will be easy for me to finish. I'm glad that I can focus on time instead of distance for this race.
I've checked out the course map, but I'm not too familiar with the location where we will be running. It seems like a fairly flat race from what I can tell. The poor 10K runners have to just complete the loop twice..how boring!
After this 5K I'm going to start training for a 10K distances and hopefully I can find a couple races to try before I start school back up in the fall.
I'm so excited!
I'm pretty excited to run another race. I'll be able to see what I can do without the first time race excitement. I hope to beat my time (34:11) and I am pretty confident I will seeing as how the first race I just wanted to finish it alive. Back then I was pretty inconsistent with whether or not I could even finish 3.2 miles. After having run 6 miles (I forgot to post about that!!!) with little to no problems, I am pretty sure this 5K will be easy for me to finish. I'm glad that I can focus on time instead of distance for this race.
I've checked out the course map, but I'm not too familiar with the location where we will be running. It seems like a fairly flat race from what I can tell. The poor 10K runners have to just complete the loop twice..how boring!
After this 5K I'm going to start training for a 10K distances and hopefully I can find a couple races to try before I start school back up in the fall.
I'm so excited!
Friday, June 5, 2009
Monday, May 18, 2009
Running on Vacation
My husband and I are going on a trip next week to visit my family in Indiana. We are really excited for this "vacation" but one thing has me a bit nervous for the trip.
As you can all probably relate, a vacation is not a time for counting calories or getting in your 4-mile daily runs. All of us want to throw our cares away and eat what we want and lounge about as to RELAX. I can't do this! I don't want to undo all that I've worked so hard for! I'm planning on hitting my "lost 10 pounds" mark Thursday and I'm not giving it back! So my question is this...how can I still be good on vacation?
Here are some things I am going to try for this trip:
1. It is no question that we will be eating out a lot with my family. There are restaurants in Indiana that we don't have here in Utah, and when we're having a good time, eating out is the way to go. I've cleverly planned out all of the places I can go to get a pretty decent meal. Since we will be the guests, and will probably get to choose most of the restaurants, I can blurt out one of my planned places and stay on the straight and narrow. If they take us somewhere else, if I know before hand I can get online to look up nutrition info, if not I know what choices are going to be bad and good. I just have to be aware. I know I'm not going to have super great days but if I stay within good boundaries, I should be okay.
2. Run. Duh. Or not-so-duh? It is so hard to go running when you have a time difference, and people are waiting around for you to do your exercise. But, I think I'll be fine and won't care. I'm in pretty good running habit right now, so I don't think I'll miss a whole week of running. (Keep your fingers crossed, still! haha)
I also want to try to be a positive example for my family. I want them to notice how I exercise and what I eat so that they can be healthier people, too! I want them to be around for a LONG time :).
For all you loyal readers out there, what do YOU do to keep up your workout/diet regimen while on vacation?
As you can all probably relate, a vacation is not a time for counting calories or getting in your 4-mile daily runs. All of us want to throw our cares away and eat what we want and lounge about as to RELAX. I can't do this! I don't want to undo all that I've worked so hard for! I'm planning on hitting my "lost 10 pounds" mark Thursday and I'm not giving it back! So my question is this...how can I still be good on vacation?
Here are some things I am going to try for this trip:
1. It is no question that we will be eating out a lot with my family. There are restaurants in Indiana that we don't have here in Utah, and when we're having a good time, eating out is the way to go. I've cleverly planned out all of the places I can go to get a pretty decent meal. Since we will be the guests, and will probably get to choose most of the restaurants, I can blurt out one of my planned places and stay on the straight and narrow. If they take us somewhere else, if I know before hand I can get online to look up nutrition info, if not I know what choices are going to be bad and good. I just have to be aware. I know I'm not going to have super great days but if I stay within good boundaries, I should be okay.
2. Run. Duh. Or not-so-duh? It is so hard to go running when you have a time difference, and people are waiting around for you to do your exercise. But, I think I'll be fine and won't care. I'm in pretty good running habit right now, so I don't think I'll miss a whole week of running. (Keep your fingers crossed, still! haha)
I also want to try to be a positive example for my family. I want them to notice how I exercise and what I eat so that they can be healthier people, too! I want them to be around for a LONG time :).
For all you loyal readers out there, what do YOU do to keep up your workout/diet regimen while on vacation?
Friday, May 1, 2009
Speed Demon
After taking a little break from running after my 5K (it wasn't intentional, I just got lazy :) ), I decided to start up a new running program aimed at increasing my speed. I don't want to ever go really fast, but I feel like if I can increase my speed it will help me be an overall better runner. So far I have followed the program each day this week and let me just say...it's kicking my booty! But I love it because that means my booty is getting smaller ;)
It's a good mixture of fartleks, acceleration strides, and easy long distance runs all designed to help me run at a little faster pace than my last 5K. So far I'm liking it. Even though some of the days are kind of scary looking when they talk 4 x 400 meter stuff, you really don't ever go over 3 miles total with the exception of your long days which for me are Saturdays.
My next race is on the 4th of July in good old Sandy, Utah. It's really the perfect location since we'll probably be there for a July 4th celerbation at my in-laws anyway. I've even convinced my husband to run it with me (he'll totally wail on my time, but that's okay...I'm not in it to win it. I just want to survive it! haha) and my mother-in-law to walk it! Hopefully the Utah weather will work it's magic and it will be cooler that day :).
My goal for this Freedom Fourth of July 5K is to run it in about 31 minutes, which is 3 minutes faster than my previous 5K time. My "big picture" idea is to run a couple more 5K distance races and then move up to 10Ks for a little while. Of course, I am working towards a potential marathon, but that could take years! haha! I'll just keep chugging along until then.
If any of you loyal readers would like a copy of this new speed training program, I'd love to share it. It is really great because you can customize it to your own personal goals. It just says things like "faster than your current pace" so it's nice that way.
Happy Running!
It's a good mixture of fartleks, acceleration strides, and easy long distance runs all designed to help me run at a little faster pace than my last 5K. So far I'm liking it. Even though some of the days are kind of scary looking when they talk 4 x 400 meter stuff, you really don't ever go over 3 miles total with the exception of your long days which for me are Saturdays.
My next race is on the 4th of July in good old Sandy, Utah. It's really the perfect location since we'll probably be there for a July 4th celerbation at my in-laws anyway. I've even convinced my husband to run it with me (he'll totally wail on my time, but that's okay...I'm not in it to win it. I just want to survive it! haha) and my mother-in-law to walk it! Hopefully the Utah weather will work it's magic and it will be cooler that day :).
My goal for this Freedom Fourth of July 5K is to run it in about 31 minutes, which is 3 minutes faster than my previous 5K time. My "big picture" idea is to run a couple more 5K distance races and then move up to 10Ks for a little while. Of course, I am working towards a potential marathon, but that could take years! haha! I'll just keep chugging along until then.
If any of you loyal readers would like a copy of this new speed training program, I'd love to share it. It is really great because you can customize it to your own personal goals. It just says things like "faster than your current pace" so it's nice that way.
Happy Running!
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
The 5K
As you all know, I ran the Salt Lake City 5K this past weekend. It was a morning full of fun and excitement. Let me recap.We (yes we, Tony was such a good husband and woke up with me to come watch) woke up at 5:30am and got ready for the race. I made some muffins the night before so I munched on those as I whipped my hair up in a ponytail and headed out the door. I, luckily, wasn't too tired because I had been practicing going to bed at a decent hour the whole week.We arrived at the Gateway Mall at about 6:30 and my race started an hour later. Tony came and dropped me off at the trax train that took me to the starting point. It was a little chilly for my taste, but I somehow survived. I was so not looking forward to taking off my comfy sweatpants and giving my "gear bag" to the nice people who were taking it to the finish line for me.
The starting of the race was exciting...for a couple seconds. I had been telling myself all morning that I was going to run just a little harder than I usually do, so I could push myself and get a decent time. The gun went off, and I did just that. I set my pace a little quicker than normal and off I went. I was smiling from ear-to-ear thinking about running in my first official race. Then, one by one, everyone started passing me. I was passed by Spiderman, and other folks who I thought weren't a threat to pass me. I got really discouraged thinking that I was going to be finishing with the walkers at the back of the chute. But I kept my little pace steady and kept my chin up.
Success was mine as we hit State Street. The majority of the 5K was on this street and it was quite uphill. Not horribly uphill, but enough to cause a lot of people to struggle. When I turned the corner and saw the big stretch in front of me I said (out loud) "Thank you, Tony." He encouraged me train on this horrible hill by us and even though I was able to run it easily before the race, I hated running it every time. I was so lucky I had trained on that hill! Anyway, my steady non-sprinting at the start line pace made it so that I, as others stopped and grabbed their aching sides, was able to chug my little way up State Street, easy peasy. No matter that I stopped for a couple seconds after the climb because I wanted to puke...I DID IT. The rest of the race was downhill from there and there was only about half a mile left, so it was smooth sailing. I picked up the pace quite a bit and made my way to the Gateway Mall and crossed the finish line. What a cool feeling. I was so proud of myself! My goal was to finish in 35 minutes (don't laugh, it was my first time), and I did it in 34:11!
Here are some "pictures" of my finish line cross. They're actually screen shots from the video Tony shot. The video is like 10 minutes long because Tony wasn't sure when I would cross, so I saved you the time and just took screen grabs of my finish :). I've outlined my head with a nice little square so you can see me.
I can't tell you how proud I was of myself. Running that race made my weekend. I'm STILL on a high from it! I'm about to go on a run now, and I'm excited about it. I would encourage everyone to do this! It really makes you feel great.
I'm planning on continuing to train and I want to run my next 5K in 30 minutes. I am going to do a couple more 5k's to improve my speed, then I'm moving on to a 10K!
My next race (not officially yet, but I'm planning on it) July 4th--Sandy, Utah.
The starting of the race was exciting...for a couple seconds. I had been telling myself all morning that I was going to run just a little harder than I usually do, so I could push myself and get a decent time. The gun went off, and I did just that. I set my pace a little quicker than normal and off I went. I was smiling from ear-to-ear thinking about running in my first official race. Then, one by one, everyone started passing me. I was passed by Spiderman, and other folks who I thought weren't a threat to pass me. I got really discouraged thinking that I was going to be finishing with the walkers at the back of the chute. But I kept my little pace steady and kept my chin up.
Success was mine as we hit State Street. The majority of the 5K was on this street and it was quite uphill. Not horribly uphill, but enough to cause a lot of people to struggle. When I turned the corner and saw the big stretch in front of me I said (out loud) "Thank you, Tony." He encouraged me train on this horrible hill by us and even though I was able to run it easily before the race, I hated running it every time. I was so lucky I had trained on that hill! Anyway, my steady non-sprinting at the start line pace made it so that I, as others stopped and grabbed their aching sides, was able to chug my little way up State Street, easy peasy. No matter that I stopped for a couple seconds after the climb because I wanted to puke...I DID IT. The rest of the race was downhill from there and there was only about half a mile left, so it was smooth sailing. I picked up the pace quite a bit and made my way to the Gateway Mall and crossed the finish line. What a cool feeling. I was so proud of myself! My goal was to finish in 35 minutes (don't laugh, it was my first time), and I did it in 34:11!
Here are some "pictures" of my finish line cross. They're actually screen shots from the video Tony shot. The video is like 10 minutes long because Tony wasn't sure when I would cross, so I saved you the time and just took screen grabs of my finish :). I've outlined my head with a nice little square so you can see me.
I can't tell you how proud I was of myself. Running that race made my weekend. I'm STILL on a high from it! I'm about to go on a run now, and I'm excited about it. I would encourage everyone to do this! It really makes you feel great.
I'm planning on continuing to train and I want to run my next 5K in 30 minutes. I am going to do a couple more 5k's to improve my speed, then I'm moving on to a 10K!
My next race (not officially yet, but I'm planning on it) July 4th--Sandy, Utah.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
I'm still here!
Oh man am I a slacker. I haven't posted anything here since March 3rd?! I apologize.
I have been progressing quite a bit with my running. I am up to being able to run about 4 miles no problemo and I recently registered for a 5K for this weekend! I'll be participating in the Salt Lake City Marathon 5K race. I am super stoked about it, and I think it is going to be really fun.
A quick, funny thing: when I was signing up for this race, there was an option to register for the Clydesdale or Athena group. The Clydesdales are men over 200 lbs and the Athenas are women over 140 lbs. Is this the fat kid category???? I don't have the skinny runner look at all, but really...is 140 lbs. heavy? I didn't get it. Even though I may or may not have been able to qualify to be an Athena, I didn't sign up. Even if it meant I got a medal, I didn't want to be in the fat kid medal group, haha. (No offense to you proud Athenas out there). I just thought it was kind of funny that the men's "big" group is over 200 and the women's is only 140. Wouldn't almost everyone be an Athena, then?
I did my last "big" run last night with my husband, Tony. We went on our favorite 4-ish mile route, and it was fun. It was really hard at the beginning because I had pigged out on chocolate due to a bad day at my stupid temporary Wendy's job, so I was feeling a little sluggish. Okay..A LOT sluggish. I felt like I had gained 30 pounds! My husband couldn't really run with me because I was going so slow. He decided to do a brisk walk along side me, haha! Luckily I picked up the pace about 1.5 miles into our run. I conquered the monster hill full speed.
Lesson learned: don't eat half your weight in chocolate on your big run days. Save it for a cross training day :) :)
I have been progressing quite a bit with my running. I am up to being able to run about 4 miles no problemo and I recently registered for a 5K for this weekend! I'll be participating in the Salt Lake City Marathon 5K race. I am super stoked about it, and I think it is going to be really fun.
A quick, funny thing: when I was signing up for this race, there was an option to register for the Clydesdale or Athena group. The Clydesdales are men over 200 lbs and the Athenas are women over 140 lbs. Is this the fat kid category???? I don't have the skinny runner look at all, but really...is 140 lbs. heavy? I didn't get it. Even though I may or may not have been able to qualify to be an Athena, I didn't sign up. Even if it meant I got a medal, I didn't want to be in the fat kid medal group, haha. (No offense to you proud Athenas out there). I just thought it was kind of funny that the men's "big" group is over 200 and the women's is only 140. Wouldn't almost everyone be an Athena, then?
I did my last "big" run last night with my husband, Tony. We went on our favorite 4-ish mile route, and it was fun. It was really hard at the beginning because I had pigged out on chocolate due to a bad day at my stupid temporary Wendy's job, so I was feeling a little sluggish. Okay..A LOT sluggish. I felt like I had gained 30 pounds! My husband couldn't really run with me because I was going so slow. He decided to do a brisk walk along side me, haha! Luckily I picked up the pace about 1.5 miles into our run. I conquered the monster hill full speed.
Lesson learned: don't eat half your weight in chocolate on your big run days. Save it for a cross training day :) :)
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Bubble
As I have continued to run five days a week, I have been noticing some changes in my physique. Some of these changes I've embraced with a warm and welcoming heart like my buff little calves and my ever-shrinking waist line, but others I am hesitant to welcome--my bubble butt.
I have noticed that my rear end has become more firm, and stronger, and I LIKE that! But, I've also noticed that it sticks out farther than it used to, and to me it looks bigger. My husband informs me that the bubble butt look is attractive, but I always made fun of bubble-butts in middle and high school.
For all of YOU out there, have you experienced this? Have you had similar experiences with your changing body shape?
I have noticed that my rear end has become more firm, and stronger, and I LIKE that! But, I've also noticed that it sticks out farther than it used to, and to me it looks bigger. My husband informs me that the bubble butt look is attractive, but I always made fun of bubble-butts in middle and high school.
For all of YOU out there, have you experienced this? Have you had similar experiences with your changing body shape?
Monday, February 23, 2009
I Hate
I am saddened (and excited) to announce that I now hate a dear, old friend. One that has helped me through my running struggles and helped me become in better shape. That's right...
I hate you, treadmill.
After taking a run on the track at BYU, I can't stand running on the treadmill. I loved not having the numbers constantly mocking me in my face, and I loved that I wasn't worried about looking at them the whole run. It almost seemed to make my run easier. Saturday night during my run I had to actually cover up the numbers with my jacket so that I could just run and not worry about when 1.2 miles was going to turn to 1.3.
I am so glad that the weather has warmed up, because now I can run outside and enjoy running more.
I hate you, treadmill.
After taking a run on the track at BYU, I can't stand running on the treadmill. I loved not having the numbers constantly mocking me in my face, and I loved that I wasn't worried about looking at them the whole run. It almost seemed to make my run easier. Saturday night during my run I had to actually cover up the numbers with my jacket so that I could just run and not worry about when 1.2 miles was going to turn to 1.3.
I am so glad that the weather has warmed up, because now I can run outside and enjoy running more.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Magic
About a week ago I attended a "Diva Night" at a local running store. I wanted to go to look at some shoes and get some free stuff while I was at it! It was so fun and I really learned a lot about the world of running. I talked to the owner a bit about some shoes but still think I'm going to wait a while, mostly because they're so darn expensive!
One thing I have to share about this diva night was the message I got. There were all kinds of businesses trying to advertise themselves at this Diva Night and one of them was a new gym called Anytime Fitness. They have a message therapist on site there and she was giving free messages at Diva Night. I, of course, waited in line for my turn and it was worth it.
I had been having these weird abdominal pains. They were like nothing I had ever felt before and I was fearing I may be pregnant. When I got the message the therapist was commenting on how nice and loose my shoulders were and then she got down to my back and said "oh my gosh!" I wasn't sure what to do because I've never had a message before so I just said "what? bad stuff?" haha. She said that I had about 10 knots in my lower back. She did some deep tissue work to get rid of them and as we talked about it we realized that that's where my abdominal pain was coming from. It was strange because I felt in the front, but she said I pulled this muscle that lays UNDER my abs all the way around. She said I probably bring my hips forward with every step I take when I run and most likely torque those muscles. She told me to watch my form closely to see if it doesn't get better.
IT DID! A miracle! Who would have thought? The pains I was feeling were so bad I had to take a couple of days off of running, and I never would have guessed that it was my form making my stomach (what felt like my ovaries) hurt.
I would recommend getting a message from a therapist who specializes in atheltic messages to anyone. It was amazing. The best part? She called me last weekend and told me I won a 50% off coupon for a message!
I should probably call her back....
One thing I have to share about this diva night was the message I got. There were all kinds of businesses trying to advertise themselves at this Diva Night and one of them was a new gym called Anytime Fitness. They have a message therapist on site there and she was giving free messages at Diva Night. I, of course, waited in line for my turn and it was worth it.
I had been having these weird abdominal pains. They were like nothing I had ever felt before and I was fearing I may be pregnant. When I got the message the therapist was commenting on how nice and loose my shoulders were and then she got down to my back and said "oh my gosh!" I wasn't sure what to do because I've never had a message before so I just said "what? bad stuff?" haha. She said that I had about 10 knots in my lower back. She did some deep tissue work to get rid of them and as we talked about it we realized that that's where my abdominal pain was coming from. It was strange because I felt in the front, but she said I pulled this muscle that lays UNDER my abs all the way around. She said I probably bring my hips forward with every step I take when I run and most likely torque those muscles. She told me to watch my form closely to see if it doesn't get better.
IT DID! A miracle! Who would have thought? The pains I was feeling were so bad I had to take a couple of days off of running, and I never would have guessed that it was my form making my stomach (what felt like my ovaries) hurt.
I would recommend getting a message from a therapist who specializes in atheltic messages to anyone. It was amazing. The best part? She called me last weekend and told me I won a 50% off coupon for a message!
I should probably call her back....
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Milestone!
I'm proud to announce a new milestone I hit last night. It may not be a big deal to most of you running folk, but to me it rocked. I, for the first time ever, ran two miles!
Tony had an intramural basketball game last night and we got there a little early so that I could change it up and use the track. I ran my first mile easy, walked a lap, then ran my second mile. It was so much fun. I really liked running on the track instead of the tredmill. I tend to just stare at the numbers on the tredmill and it's kind of like the saying "a watched pot never boils", a watched tredmill never hits a mile.
Even though this was only two miles, for my goal it was BIG! A 5k is about 3.2 miles, so I'm almost there. It was really fun to be able to run last night. Wahoo for running!
Tony had an intramural basketball game last night and we got there a little early so that I could change it up and use the track. I ran my first mile easy, walked a lap, then ran my second mile. It was so much fun. I really liked running on the track instead of the tredmill. I tend to just stare at the numbers on the tredmill and it's kind of like the saying "a watched pot never boils", a watched tredmill never hits a mile.
Even though this was only two miles, for my goal it was BIG! A 5k is about 3.2 miles, so I'm almost there. It was really fun to be able to run last night. Wahoo for running!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Wanna come?
My husband and I watched The Biggest Loser last night, and I'm now inspired! Bob's team hiked to Subway! I know it was just a crummy commercial, but man does that sound fun! I have no idea where a Subway is around here, but I'm totally running there when the snow stops coming down. Maybe during my time in St. George this weekend I'll take a jog to a local Subway. I'm so excited!
Last night I took it easy on my workout. I made myself be perfectly content with a walk instead of my running program. I walked for 20 minutes then pumped some iron. :) It was fun and it was really nice to be able to walk home without limping. I think that tonight I'll do the same, then take my usual Thursday rest day to do some weight training, then start back up on Friday. I am really excited to start running again, but I'm also really glad that I'm listening to my body!
Last night I took it easy on my workout. I made myself be perfectly content with a walk instead of my running program. I walked for 20 minutes then pumped some iron. :) It was fun and it was really nice to be able to walk home without limping. I think that tonight I'll do the same, then take my usual Thursday rest day to do some weight training, then start back up on Friday. I am really excited to start running again, but I'm also really glad that I'm listening to my body!
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Road Block
As you all know from reading this blog, I am working on a running program that took me from "couch to runner" in eight weeks. I have been quite successful in completing my program, progressing as I should every time I run. This past week(end) I moved onto the phase were I walk for one minute, then run for five and repeat for thirty minutes. For some reason my body does not want to do this! When I went from walking three minutes to walking two, it was no problem! For some reason my body isn't letting me complete my one and five workout. My calves are aching, and (strangely enough) my lower abdomen kills. It doesn't feel like a lack of ab workout issue, it feels more like my "innards."
Today I think I'm going to ice down my legs and just take it easy. Maybe a brisk walk for my thirty minutes so I'm still moving, but not killing myself.
*UPDATE FROM LAST POST!*
My last post was kind of, well, angry. I was extremely frustrated and felt like my efforts were all for not. I researched what Jillian said about muscle gain not being the reason you gain weight and it seems that most of the fitness world disagrees with her. Now I disagree with her! A couple days after my weigh-in, I stepped on my scale again and I was down 1.5 pounds. I really think that my body built muscles because I'm running more, and muscles DO weigh something! So, I'm no longer frustrated. I'm gonna keep on runnin'!
Today I think I'm going to ice down my legs and just take it easy. Maybe a brisk walk for my thirty minutes so I'm still moving, but not killing myself.
*UPDATE FROM LAST POST!*
My last post was kind of, well, angry. I was extremely frustrated and felt like my efforts were all for not. I researched what Jillian said about muscle gain not being the reason you gain weight and it seems that most of the fitness world disagrees with her. Now I disagree with her! A couple days after my weigh-in, I stepped on my scale again and I was down 1.5 pounds. I really think that my body built muscles because I'm running more, and muscles DO weigh something! So, I'm no longer frustrated. I'm gonna keep on runnin'!
Friday, February 6, 2009
Frustration
I am running to be healthy, to lose weight so that I am in a more healthy weight range. I am counting calories and putting healthy foods filled with fiber and whole grains into my body. I have been "dieting" for 8 weeks now, and I've lost 7.2 pounds. Pretty good, right? Right. Today, I am kind of ticked off.
Today is the day I do my "official weigh-in". This has been my hardest running week in a while. I've been increasing my time and mileage a lot and I can actually feel my body changing. I feel stronger and my clothes are fitting looser. So today stepping on the scale should have been an easy thing. I was expecting to have dropped my usual pound. NO! The scale I have shows me I've GAINED 2 pounds. What the heck?!?
I watch the Biggest Loser, and this past week one of the trainers, Jillian, made a big deal about how trainers trick their clients into thinking that because they've gained muscles that's a good excuse for not losing weight. She basically informed America that it was a bunch of bull ****. I feel like I've gained tons of muscles and the measuring tape proves that I've shed some inches. But what about the scale? Did I gain muscle? Does muscle gain really give me agood excuse for this gain I'm experiencing? I didn't "cheat" on my diet at all, so I'm not sure what's going on.
All I know is that it is frustrating the heck outta me!
Today is the day I do my "official weigh-in". This has been my hardest running week in a while. I've been increasing my time and mileage a lot and I can actually feel my body changing. I feel stronger and my clothes are fitting looser. So today stepping on the scale should have been an easy thing. I was expecting to have dropped my usual pound. NO! The scale I have shows me I've GAINED 2 pounds. What the heck?!?
I watch the Biggest Loser, and this past week one of the trainers, Jillian, made a big deal about how trainers trick their clients into thinking that because they've gained muscles that's a good excuse for not losing weight. She basically informed America that it was a bunch of bull ****. I feel like I've gained tons of muscles and the measuring tape proves that I've shed some inches. But what about the scale? Did I gain muscle? Does muscle gain really give me agood excuse for this gain I'm experiencing? I didn't "cheat" on my diet at all, so I'm not sure what's going on.
All I know is that it is frustrating the heck outta me!
Thursday, February 5, 2009
The Stick
I recently came across a site that informed me of a product ALL runners beginner through marathoners should own. The Stick. I thought this sounded really silly, but read on, saw the pictures and had to wonder if I needed one of these sticks as badly as this site said I did.
So, for all you expert runners out there, do you have The Stick? Would you recommend it? Sitting here with sore legs after my run, it kind of looks nice! Let me know what you guys think, leave a comment!
So, for all you expert runners out there, do you have The Stick? Would you recommend it? Sitting here with sore legs after my run, it kind of looks nice! Let me know what you guys think, leave a comment!
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Lovely Low-Fat Buffalo Wings!
I made this recipe last night and it is AMAZING! It tastes just like Buffalo wings, but without the deep-fried, sauce-covered fattiness.
I will add that the dressing is a little blah with just these ingredients. I added some garlic powder, pepper, and some of the left over taco seasoning to give it a little more flavor. Also, if you leave the dressing overnight, it tastes much better because the flavors have time to get to know each other. The leftovers are also great on a salad!
Serves 4
Don't succumb to traditional,
artery-clogging wings. Simply bake them in a
tangy rub and then dip them in
lightened-up dressing.
Ingredients
Cooking Spray
12 oz. skinless
chicken wings
1 1/4 oz Taco Seasoning Mix
1/2 cup Fat-Free Sour Cream
2
tbsp bleu cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp fat-free skim milk
4 medium stalks of
celery
Preparation
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Coat a large baking sheet with cooking spray.
Place chicken wings in a zip-close plastic bag, add taco seasoning, seal bag and shake to coat.
Transfer wings to prepared baking sheet and bake until cooked through, about 18 to 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, to prepare dip, whisk together sour cream, cheese and milk.
Serve wings with dip and celery on the side.
Yields about 3 wings, 3 tablespoons of dip
and 1 celery stalk per
serving.
I will add that the dressing is a little blah with just these ingredients. I added some garlic powder, pepper, and some of the left over taco seasoning to give it a little more flavor. Also, if you leave the dressing overnight, it tastes much better because the flavors have time to get to know each other. The leftovers are also great on a salad!
Serves 4
Don't succumb to traditional,
artery-clogging wings. Simply bake them in a
tangy rub and then dip them in
lightened-up dressing.
Ingredients
Cooking Spray
12 oz. skinless
chicken wings
1 1/4 oz Taco Seasoning Mix
1/2 cup Fat-Free Sour Cream
2
tbsp bleu cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp fat-free skim milk
4 medium stalks of
celery
Preparation
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Coat a large baking sheet with cooking spray.
Place chicken wings in a zip-close plastic bag, add taco seasoning, seal bag and shake to coat.
Transfer wings to prepared baking sheet and bake until cooked through, about 18 to 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, to prepare dip, whisk together sour cream, cheese and milk.
Serve wings with dip and celery on the side.
Yields about 3 wings, 3 tablespoons of dip
and 1 celery stalk per
serving.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Hello!
I thought it would fun and interesting to begin a blog about my fitness journey. I have a blog, but wanted to use that for personal events that family and friends would want to read about. This blog I have dedicated to my running and healthy eating adventures so that people who actually want to hear about my fitness journey can. Hope you Enjoy!
I am getting really excited about running! Lately I have been day dreaming about the 5K I'm planning on entering this spring. I know that I won't win the race, but the thought of me actually finishing a 5K, running the whole thing, is amazing! It's taken a lot of hard work for me as I prepare for this race. Heck, I'm still only on the PRE-5K training! I am still shocked at how much I really love running now, because I used to HATE running. With a passion.
I began my current "From Couch to Runner" 8-week training regiment last, oh, May. I got pretty far into it, probably to about week 3 or 4, and then my husband and I took off to Bulgaria for a study abroad internship for my major. Being terrified of going out alone in this new and strange place, my running came to an abrupt end. I "knew" that when I became more comfortable I would begin my program once again, get back on track, and complete the program before returning home from Bulgaria. Long story short, I probably ran 5 times total in the three month period we were there. Ugh.
I got back into the workout blues slump and I actually kind of missed my running days. It was incredibly difficult to motivate myself to run again. When we got back to the U.S., I attempted to run on a tredmill a couple times, but living with my in-laws made that kind of awkward/difficult because I didn't want to interrupt anyone, other people were using it, etc. I know--no excuse. I did, however, begin eating much healthier and committing myself to that. It's been fairly simple and easy for me, surprisingly enough. When we moved into our new apartment I began hitting the gym and I'm now on week 6 of my program! (I didn't have to start from the VERY beginning again)
The amazing thing about it is that I look forward to my runs every day. They aren't the 12 mile practice runs that a lot of hard core runners do for their workouts, but they make me feel proud, and they give me time to relax and meditate. A lot of people talk about different getaways they have where they can just go and forget about the worries of the world. Temples, bedrooms, bathrooms, the mall, etc. Mine is going running!
I have a lot to accomplish with my running to achieve the goals I'm aiming for, but I know they will be fun.
If you'd like to see the 8-week "From Couch to Runner" program I'm following, head to Running Planet. I have put this program into a nice, easy-to-read table. If you'd like a copy, leave a comment. Thanks!
I am getting really excited about running! Lately I have been day dreaming about the 5K I'm planning on entering this spring. I know that I won't win the race, but the thought of me actually finishing a 5K, running the whole thing, is amazing! It's taken a lot of hard work for me as I prepare for this race. Heck, I'm still only on the PRE-5K training! I am still shocked at how much I really love running now, because I used to HATE running. With a passion.
I began my current "From Couch to Runner" 8-week training regiment last, oh, May. I got pretty far into it, probably to about week 3 or 4, and then my husband and I took off to Bulgaria for a study abroad internship for my major. Being terrified of going out alone in this new and strange place, my running came to an abrupt end. I "knew" that when I became more comfortable I would begin my program once again, get back on track, and complete the program before returning home from Bulgaria. Long story short, I probably ran 5 times total in the three month period we were there. Ugh.
I got back into the workout blues slump and I actually kind of missed my running days. It was incredibly difficult to motivate myself to run again. When we got back to the U.S., I attempted to run on a tredmill a couple times, but living with my in-laws made that kind of awkward/difficult because I didn't want to interrupt anyone, other people were using it, etc. I know--no excuse. I did, however, begin eating much healthier and committing myself to that. It's been fairly simple and easy for me, surprisingly enough. When we moved into our new apartment I began hitting the gym and I'm now on week 6 of my program! (I didn't have to start from the VERY beginning again)
The amazing thing about it is that I look forward to my runs every day. They aren't the 12 mile practice runs that a lot of hard core runners do for their workouts, but they make me feel proud, and they give me time to relax and meditate. A lot of people talk about different getaways they have where they can just go and forget about the worries of the world. Temples, bedrooms, bathrooms, the mall, etc. Mine is going running!
I have a lot to accomplish with my running to achieve the goals I'm aiming for, but I know they will be fun.
If you'd like to see the 8-week "From Couch to Runner" program I'm following, head to Running Planet. I have put this program into a nice, easy-to-read table. If you'd like a copy, leave a comment. Thanks!
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