5K

Did my first 5K race of the season. Ran it in under 48 minutes and at a 13:47 pace.  It was in honor of my grandma. As I started the 3rd mile, the sun started to come out and there was a sign that said, "U got this." I certainly did. 

First Run Outside

Distance: .81 miles

Time: 12:21

Temp: 19F Feels Like 6F

So we decided to head to a movie this morning which did not leave me time to go to the track and run my 4 miles like I had planned on my Training Schedule. Instead I decided to head outside. Yesterday was such a nice day I ran around with just a fleece.

Should have checked the weather before I headed out the door. I knew it was chilly but did not realize how chilly. So I put on running tights, shorts, wicking shirt, wicking pull over, and a zip jacket. As I was lacing up my running shoes my 7 year old said, "Mom, you look like a runner."

Well good. That was the look I was going for. I stepped outside and instantly regretted my decision to head outside. But, I need to run so I ran. I purposefully took a longer route because I knew I would chicken out. Had I had gloves and ear warmers I think I would have been fine. 

I can see why people love running outside. Much more to look at. I forget how much I used to love to be outside. My weight has hindered that over the years and I'm looking forward to spending the coming months enjoying green grass and chirping birds. (Well maybe. We've had a very cold, long, snowy winter here in Chicago. Despite the first day of spring being this week we are still wearing hats and gloves everywhere.

March

Down 11 pounds. Running at least 1 1/4 miles in 25 minutes. Able to hold a plank for 60+ seconds.

I've been working with the trainer at least once a week. He has the right mix of motivation and he doesn't yell. He was fairly optimistic about my abilities this week. We have been working on balance and leg strength in order to prevent running injuries.

Last week we introduced the Bosu ball into my work out. I loath the Bosu. It works everything. Basically it's 1/2 an exercise ball on a flat board. Last week we played catch. Today I did leg lifts and worked a medicine ball. 

Then we worked on triceps. I am not going to be able to wash my hair for days because I can't lift my arms. And forget getting out of a chair. 

It is all "good" pain. Mr. Trainer gently corrected my use of the word pain, trading it in for soreness. Whatever dude. At the end of my session he asked me if I had any concerns, questions, or comments. I quipped, "None that are nice." He told me to keep them to myself.

I'm glad it hurts. It reminds me I'm working hard. And I feel stronger every day. 13.1 miles is no joke. I have to train. My muscles have to learn. I feel great knowing that I'm sticking to my goal. 

New Kicks

All of the running blogs, articles, pins I've read have talked about getting properly fitted for running shoes. Turns out we have a running store right around the corner. I went in and spent an hour being video taped, measured and trying on shoes. I ended up with Saucony Guide 7 shoe. Love them! So much so that I got up early two days this week to get my runs in before work. Add that a session with my trainer, Zumba, and a solo cross training session and you get 5 consecutive days in a row. 

I felt guilty for resting today but I know my body needs a day to recover.Tomorrow is my first long run. 3 miles no matter how long it takes. It's still not nice enough to go outside so I'm heading to the track. 

I love how strong I feel. I love the definition I'm seeing in my muscles. I was at places with steep stairs in the last two weeks and when I got to the top I cheered. No huffing and puffing. No feeling fat. A small victory but a worthy one.

Be Prepared

I grew up in a scouting family. The motto was "Always be prepared". The rest of the motto was of course "even if its at the last minute" because my family are notorious procrastinators. Drives me nuts and I'm always striving to break those old habits! 

Part of being prepared is becoming knowledgable. I figure I can learn how to do almost anything in 6 months. But I do have to learn. I've begun trolling Pinterest and websites for information on beginning a running program. I'm soaking up motivational quotes and tips like a sponge. I'm getting excited about this goal I set for myself.

I have to do these things or I'll chicken out. I set a pretty big goal. It's going to take lots of preparation. That's a lot of time, energy an learning to be done. As a working mother to four kids I don't have time for re-dos. I have to be efficient ar using my time. 

I met with a trainer yesterday and signed up for personal training sessions. I actually belong to two gyms. The one at the park district that I pay for and the one in my office that my employer pays for. I will need to utilize both to train in the Winter. He asked me about my goals.

My goal: To finish the race.

He asked if I had any particular fitness goals. Just to be healthy. Throwing a number on that hasn't worked in the past. Losing 50+ lbs intimidates me. Discourages me and I don't want to be discouraged. I want to be encouraged. He agreed and told me he always tries to steer clients away from weight goals and go for fitness goals. 10 push ups, complete a race, new personal best. He also recommended buying training sessions in small packages such as three at a time. I like this guy already!

So I'm set to start with him once a week Wednesday. I skipped the gym this morning in favor of organizing "stuff" at home which included multiple trips up the stairs, lifting boxes, and lots of bending. Now it's time to hit the showers!

Dedication

So why a 1/2 marathon? Well for one thing I don't think a 5k is enough of a challenge. I think I'd allow myself to slack off and do just enough. I can walk a 5k no problem. Walking a 1/2 marathon, let alone run it, is another story entirely. I also really, really, really would like to do a race at Disney World and the Princess 1/2 Marathon in 2015 seems like a justifiable goal.


I've never particularly liked running. I played soccer in my teens and I don't ever remember enjoying laps around the field. I did enjoy being dedication to something. I enjoyed practicing. I enjoyed being outside. I enjoyed being a part of something.


Here is the part I like about running. I don't have to go fast. I just have to finish. I'm not trying to become an Olympian. I'm not even trying to be a winner. I'd prefer to be better than last, but if I am, oh well! At least I started in the first place. That's way better than those who never start.


So I'm super impressed with my perseverance this week. Despite a car accident, and a run in with the treadmill (pun intended) I kept to my training schedule. I woke up this morning and my body craved the physical activity. I could have used my ankle injury as an excuse. I chose not too. And to reward myself I bought some new exercise gear. So every time I put on my new shirt that says, "My Mascara Runs Faster Than You" I'm going to be proud of my dedication.

Note to Self

Make sure: 1) the treadmill is set correctly 2) both feet are firmly on the sides when the machine starts moving 3) no one is looking when you wipe out and skin your knee, shin and ankle.