Okay, I'm really proud of myself today. I had to stay home and take a nap because I have a pretty bad cold -- sore throat, very stuffy nose, etc. I'm having trouble breathing as it is and running seemed so very undoable. I skipped it last night, in fact, due to exhaustion because of this cold , which only got worse today(and also because yesterday was the most frigid day this week). But I did not want to get off schedule when I am already struggling to complete week 7, so after a nap and some soup, I got out there.
It's still pretty cold -- around 15 degrees F. I wore my ninja mask, which I kept on for more than half the run! I think it was actually helping me breathe with this cold. Finally the ninja mask works its magic. Also, I took a tip from someone on Facebook who had commented on another friend's running-in-the-cold-related status and popped in a mentholated cough drop before going out. I feel like this helped my breathing and my general mucusness so much.
I ran to the updated Running Into Shape podcast, which is actually 25 minutes. I was feeling pretty good and then my nose was stuffing up and I decided to take a break to blow my nose, take off the mask, and catch my breath. So just over halfway through the run, I did that. I walked for about two minutes and then resumed the run. I then got a slight cramp just below my ribs on my right side, which I tried to good-breathe away, but pretty much stayed with me the rest of the run. But it was only a minor cramp.
I think I am pacing myself well in terms of the C25K goals! Even with a 2-minute walking break, I made it around the track over four times in the 25 minutes. I believe the track is 5/8 of a mile, so that means I ran just over 2.5 miles, which is the goal for 25 minutes. I have decided I definitely prefer the track because for whatever reason, the pace I set on it seems easier to maintain and I don't get out of breath as easily.
Okay, so my plan is to try and do a full 25 minutes on Sunday if I'm feeling a bit better. I think I'm going to repeat week 7 one more time -- I want to do the 25 minute run at least twice before moving on. But I should still complete the program by the end of February! (Hopefully.)
Friday, January 29, 2010
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
25 minutes with just one break... but....
Well, shit. I just finished my first day of repeating week 7, and I was all proud that I only took one break, about 10 minutes in. Then I was looking at the podcast on the way home and wondering why the hell it is only 33 minutes long, when a 25 minute run + two 5-minute walks should = 35 minutes. And I SWEAR TO GOD I had downloaded the up to date Running Into Shape week 7 podcast. I swear!!
No, I didn't. I got home and looked at the site and re-downloaded, and she added another song to make up for the 3 missing minutes :( So, I can run for just over 22 minutes (I added about 30 seconds on at the end to "make up for" my 2 minute-ish walk in the middle) with just one break. Damnit! Foiled again!
Well, anyway. I still feel like I'm improving. Who's to say I wouldn't have made it another 3 minutes? Haha. Kind of doubtful, but it's in part the fault of the weather. It got cold again -- weather.com said it was about 20 F when I left and felt like 7. And it is WINDY. Luckily, I wore leg warmers, an undershirt and my trusty ninja mask, which was annoying in terms of fogging up my glasses, but really helpful because it was freaking freezing out there. I kept it on for about 5 minutes and then stumbled around trying to continue running while my headphones fell off and I tripped over them (NO BIG FALL, just a stumble, don't worry) and tried to collect them.
Anyway, the reason I might not have made it another 3 minutes is that my nose was getting really runny and stuffy due to the wind and cold, but I was holding my ninja mask and, by this time, my gloves. So it was getting hard to blow my nose. This is one thing I will not miss about summer (though I'll have to get one of those armbands to keep my mp3 player in place!).
I was able to run in the park again and I think this was helpful. For some reason -- maybe because I feel more conspicuous on streets -- I think I'm able to better set my pace on the running track. I think I try to run away from people on the streets and then run too fast. What can I say, I'm a misanthropic runner.
So the reason I returned to the podcast, btw, was that I find the little "You've completed five minutes" type reminders helpful. I downloaded the new one and might do that Thursday, or maybe I'll switch back to my own playlist. We'll see!
No, I didn't. I got home and looked at the site and re-downloaded, and she added another song to make up for the 3 missing minutes :( So, I can run for just over 22 minutes (I added about 30 seconds on at the end to "make up for" my 2 minute-ish walk in the middle) with just one break. Damnit! Foiled again!
Well, anyway. I still feel like I'm improving. Who's to say I wouldn't have made it another 3 minutes? Haha. Kind of doubtful, but it's in part the fault of the weather. It got cold again -- weather.com said it was about 20 F when I left and felt like 7. And it is WINDY. Luckily, I wore leg warmers, an undershirt and my trusty ninja mask, which was annoying in terms of fogging up my glasses, but really helpful because it was freaking freezing out there. I kept it on for about 5 minutes and then stumbled around trying to continue running while my headphones fell off and I tripped over them (NO BIG FALL, just a stumble, don't worry) and tried to collect them.
Anyway, the reason I might not have made it another 3 minutes is that my nose was getting really runny and stuffy due to the wind and cold, but I was holding my ninja mask and, by this time, my gloves. So it was getting hard to blow my nose. This is one thing I will not miss about summer (though I'll have to get one of those armbands to keep my mp3 player in place!).
I was able to run in the park again and I think this was helpful. For some reason -- maybe because I feel more conspicuous on streets -- I think I'm able to better set my pace on the running track. I think I try to run away from people on the streets and then run too fast. What can I say, I'm a misanthropic runner.
So the reason I returned to the podcast, btw, was that I find the little "You've completed five minutes" type reminders helpful. I downloaded the new one and might do that Thursday, or maybe I'll switch back to my own playlist. We'll see!
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Getting better...
Well, I've made it over my 3-break hump. At least for a day, let's hope forever.
It is a balmy 42 degrees here, which is really warm. I have no idea how I am going to handle summer because I'm grossly sweaty and red-faced right now. Though I suppose that, in summer, I will not wear sweatpants and a sweatshirt.
The ice is gone! Today was my first run in like a month sans Yak Trax. YAY! I did one lap around the park but the thaw created some really big puddles so it was back to the streets. I can't decide which I like better; I do enjoy the feeling of accomplishment I get by actually traveling in lines and not circles.
So I started and had to pause after one song. Initially this was because I was waiting to cross the street and get out of the park, but that turned into a walk. I'm pretty sure I start out with too fast a pace. Because then I began running again and kind of wanted to quit, but Bad Romance came on (I used another of my own playlists, this one titled "Ladies") and I was like, "Okay I'm going to make it through this song." By the way, that is a song I would highly recommend for your playlist. So I slowed my pace a bit and got through it. Then my next song came on and I thought, "I'll make it halfway through this one." But I got to halfway and challenged myself to run through it. I took my next walking break about 30 seconds into the following song. Both breaks were probably about two minutes, so hey -- I ran about 21 minutes and that is longer than that 20 minute run I was so proud of.
My goal for this coming week is to get down to one break, and maybe do the whole 25 minutes the third run? We'll see!
Okay, so I've hit a plateau here, which won't last forever, but I remembered something I wanted to share: my leg muscles, though often achy, have really gotten awesome! My calves totally rock right now. Additionally, I was wearing a skirt and riding the train and trying to hold my thighs together, you know how you do, so as to not reveal your panties to the world? And I remembered how that used to be super annoying and kind of a struggle, but I did it with ease. I hope that makes sense. I mean, in other words, it's possible that I could crush you with my thigh muscles.
It is a balmy 42 degrees here, which is really warm. I have no idea how I am going to handle summer because I'm grossly sweaty and red-faced right now. Though I suppose that, in summer, I will not wear sweatpants and a sweatshirt.
The ice is gone! Today was my first run in like a month sans Yak Trax. YAY! I did one lap around the park but the thaw created some really big puddles so it was back to the streets. I can't decide which I like better; I do enjoy the feeling of accomplishment I get by actually traveling in lines and not circles.
So I started and had to pause after one song. Initially this was because I was waiting to cross the street and get out of the park, but that turned into a walk. I'm pretty sure I start out with too fast a pace. Because then I began running again and kind of wanted to quit, but Bad Romance came on (I used another of my own playlists, this one titled "Ladies") and I was like, "Okay I'm going to make it through this song." By the way, that is a song I would highly recommend for your playlist. So I slowed my pace a bit and got through it. Then my next song came on and I thought, "I'll make it halfway through this one." But I got to halfway and challenged myself to run through it. I took my next walking break about 30 seconds into the following song. Both breaks were probably about two minutes, so hey -- I ran about 21 minutes and that is longer than that 20 minute run I was so proud of.
My goal for this coming week is to get down to one break, and maybe do the whole 25 minutes the third run? We'll see!
Okay, so I've hit a plateau here, which won't last forever, but I remembered something I wanted to share: my leg muscles, though often achy, have really gotten awesome! My calves totally rock right now. Additionally, I was wearing a skirt and riding the train and trying to hold my thighs together, you know how you do, so as to not reveal your panties to the world? And I remembered how that used to be super annoying and kind of a struggle, but I did it with ease. I hope that makes sense. I mean, in other words, it's possible that I could crush you with my thigh muscles.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Regressing?
Phew, my dinner plans were canceled so I was able to run today and I can "finish" this week on Saturday like I really wanted. Still can't run for 25 minutes! I had to walk three times during this run. I ran for about six minutes and then walked for a minute or so. Ran for another two songs, maybe, then walked again. Finally I ran for the last six minutes and added another minute on the end. It's a little frustrating that I ran for twenty minutes already, not to mention the eight minute runs and the ten minute runs, and I can only make six or so right now before interrupting the run.
I'm still just out of breath, I think, which leads to stomach and chest cramps. Boo. I really don't think I'll be moving on to week 8. I'm gonna keep trying week 7 until I can do two 25 minute runs in a row, I think. If possible, I am just going to run every other day until this happens.
I also made two of my own playlists today. I just made sure the first and last songs were ~5 minutes long, and the middle songs added up to about 25 minutes (plus or minus a few seconds). So I listened to one of those during my run, because honestly I kind of hate the week 7 podcast. In the end, after I finish this program, I plan to just make mixes of a certain length (most likely 30 minutes plus a warm up and cool down song) and running to those. I don't want to get bored, so I started making lists of songs and coming up with theme ideas. I can get obsessive and crazy over playlists so I foresee a fun and involved project here.
My shins are hurting again, btw! This time it's kind of my inner shins and I think it might have to do with a pair of boots I wore out last night. By the end of my run I was a wincing, achy, huffy puffy mess. It was exceptionally attractive. I'm not kidding, I think another runner gave me a "what the fuck is up with you?" look. Ah well. Hopefully Saturday will be better!
I'm still just out of breath, I think, which leads to stomach and chest cramps. Boo. I really don't think I'll be moving on to week 8. I'm gonna keep trying week 7 until I can do two 25 minute runs in a row, I think. If possible, I am just going to run every other day until this happens.
I also made two of my own playlists today. I just made sure the first and last songs were ~5 minutes long, and the middle songs added up to about 25 minutes (plus or minus a few seconds). So I listened to one of those during my run, because honestly I kind of hate the week 7 podcast. In the end, after I finish this program, I plan to just make mixes of a certain length (most likely 30 minutes plus a warm up and cool down song) and running to those. I don't want to get bored, so I started making lists of songs and coming up with theme ideas. I can get obsessive and crazy over playlists so I foresee a fun and involved project here.
My shins are hurting again, btw! This time it's kind of my inner shins and I think it might have to do with a pair of boots I wore out last night. By the end of my run I was a wincing, achy, huffy puffy mess. It was exceptionally attractive. I'm not kidding, I think another runner gave me a "what the fuck is up with you?" look. Ah well. Hopefully Saturday will be better!
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
25 Minutes: A Long Time
Week 7 will probably be the week I repeat ad infinitum. Today was day 1 of week 7, but the second time I attempted a 25 minute run -- if you recall, week 6 ended with one. And I "failed" again.
Firstly, let me assure you all that my knee (actually knees -- the right one developed a pretty sweet bruise) are fine. The left one hurt pretty badly every time I sat down or stood up for the past couple of days but felt much better today. So I can't really blame it on that. What I can blame it on, in part, are the cigarettes I continue to smoke occasionally. I had one last night and I don't think they are helping me here.
Still running on sidewalks because the ice on the running path just does not want to melt. I was doing pretty well but about 7 or 8 minutes into the run, I was really getting out of breath. So I walked for a minute or two. I got myself running again, but maybe 18 minutes into the run, I had to slow to a walk again. I walked for a minute or so and was able to run the last 6ish minutes. I tried to push past the end time, and did so for maybe 30 seconds but I developed a cramp in my shoulder/chest area and had to stop.
I felt vomity a few times, there were various cramps threatening, and I just have difficulty taking those deep belly breaths. But I'm working up to this 25 minutes thing and even if it takes me over a week, I'm gonna do it! I am still running the vast majority of the time and I feel good afterwards.
Unfortunately dinner plans with my grandmother mean I won't be able to do the Thursday/Saturday like I wanted, so I will see you on Friday, when I cram in a run before my plans for the night, and then Sunday.
Firstly, let me assure you all that my knee (actually knees -- the right one developed a pretty sweet bruise) are fine. The left one hurt pretty badly every time I sat down or stood up for the past couple of days but felt much better today. So I can't really blame it on that. What I can blame it on, in part, are the cigarettes I continue to smoke occasionally. I had one last night and I don't think they are helping me here.
Still running on sidewalks because the ice on the running path just does not want to melt. I was doing pretty well but about 7 or 8 minutes into the run, I was really getting out of breath. So I walked for a minute or two. I got myself running again, but maybe 18 minutes into the run, I had to slow to a walk again. I walked for a minute or so and was able to run the last 6ish minutes. I tried to push past the end time, and did so for maybe 30 seconds but I developed a cramp in my shoulder/chest area and had to stop.
I felt vomity a few times, there were various cramps threatening, and I just have difficulty taking those deep belly breaths. But I'm working up to this 25 minutes thing and even if it takes me over a week, I'm gonna do it! I am still running the vast majority of the time and I feel good afterwards.
Unfortunately dinner plans with my grandmother mean I won't be able to do the Thursday/Saturday like I wanted, so I will see you on Friday, when I cram in a run before my plans for the night, and then Sunday.
Monday, January 18, 2010
First Failure + First Injury = Finishing Week Six
Well, things couldn't go smoothly forever. Today was my first failed run. I managed to fail twice, too!
First I should set the scene... I wanted to run yesterday because jumping from two 10-minute runs to a full 25 minute run seemed crazy and I wanted to do this with only one day between. However, I had an interview for a teaching fellows thingy from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm and I was exhausted after. I took a nap and then got some tacos and beer. I then went out, drank like a sailor, smoked 2.5 cigarettes and sang karaoke. I believe I fell asleep on my couch around 6 a.m.
So today, despite sleeping until 3, I was kind of hurting. I'm not sure I drank enough water to make up for my hungover dehydration and I was a little headachy. I had to delay my run by a half hour or so because I discovered that my Zune was dead, too. So I was crabby as well.
I left the house with a severe lack of confidence, visited the park with hopes of running there, found that the snow had melted and refrozen into dangerously bumpy ice, and continued on across the park to the sidewalks I've been running on. Most of them are clear but there are a few areas that are just a sheet of ice, so I was wearing my yak trax. About five minutes into the run, another runner was coming at me from the opposite direction and I was checking her out rather than looking at the situation near my feet; my yak trax caught on some irregularity in the sidewalk (there was no ice there) and I completely wiped out. I landed on my left knee and my right hand; luckily my knee was covered by thick fleecy sweatpants and my hand was covered by a thick glove. Nothing hurt too badly so I got up, assured the other runner that I was fine, and continued on. My knee hurt, but I figured it was just bruised.
So that was my first interruption. My second was just about being a baby. I still have trouble regulating my breathing, perhaps due in part to the occasional cigarette, but also because my nose gets stuffy in the cold and my throat gets phlegmy and no matter how much I spit and blow my nose, this hinders me. Plus, I developed a pretty mean headache during this run, possibly due to dehydration. So about 16 minutes in, I had to switch to walking. I walked for about two minutes and somehow motivated myself to begin running again. I tacked on an extra minute at the end (day one of this week lasts 26 minutes so I was easily able to measure this).
The Running Into Shape website indicates that we should be covering approximately 2.5 miles in 25 minutes. With the fall and the 2 minute walk break, I still made about 2.3 miles in 25 minutes, so that's pretty good. Additionally, this coming week is composed of three 25 minute runs. So I'm not going to repeat anything and I pretty much hope to work up to running for 25 minutes straight by the end of the week. I really hope the park clears up soon because I'd like to be able to run in circles and let my mind wander more, plus I'm not a huge fan of the people I encounter on the street.
By the way, I got home to find that my knee was bloody and swollen. It has continued to swell a bit; I now have a rather large bump that I'll be icing. When I told my sister about my knee, she reminded me that I totally fucked up my knee last January, as well. I was running up an escalator after getting up the el and I tripped on my heavy winter boot. My knee slammed into the spiky edge of an escalator stair and was a bloody mess. I think it was the same knee; apparently this is an annual thing. Just like last year, I took pictures. Here they are:
First I should set the scene... I wanted to run yesterday because jumping from two 10-minute runs to a full 25 minute run seemed crazy and I wanted to do this with only one day between. However, I had an interview for a teaching fellows thingy from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm and I was exhausted after. I took a nap and then got some tacos and beer. I then went out, drank like a sailor, smoked 2.5 cigarettes and sang karaoke. I believe I fell asleep on my couch around 6 a.m.
So today, despite sleeping until 3, I was kind of hurting. I'm not sure I drank enough water to make up for my hungover dehydration and I was a little headachy. I had to delay my run by a half hour or so because I discovered that my Zune was dead, too. So I was crabby as well.
I left the house with a severe lack of confidence, visited the park with hopes of running there, found that the snow had melted and refrozen into dangerously bumpy ice, and continued on across the park to the sidewalks I've been running on. Most of them are clear but there are a few areas that are just a sheet of ice, so I was wearing my yak trax. About five minutes into the run, another runner was coming at me from the opposite direction and I was checking her out rather than looking at the situation near my feet; my yak trax caught on some irregularity in the sidewalk (there was no ice there) and I completely wiped out. I landed on my left knee and my right hand; luckily my knee was covered by thick fleecy sweatpants and my hand was covered by a thick glove. Nothing hurt too badly so I got up, assured the other runner that I was fine, and continued on. My knee hurt, but I figured it was just bruised.
So that was my first interruption. My second was just about being a baby. I still have trouble regulating my breathing, perhaps due in part to the occasional cigarette, but also because my nose gets stuffy in the cold and my throat gets phlegmy and no matter how much I spit and blow my nose, this hinders me. Plus, I developed a pretty mean headache during this run, possibly due to dehydration. So about 16 minutes in, I had to switch to walking. I walked for about two minutes and somehow motivated myself to begin running again. I tacked on an extra minute at the end (day one of this week lasts 26 minutes so I was easily able to measure this).
The Running Into Shape website indicates that we should be covering approximately 2.5 miles in 25 minutes. With the fall and the 2 minute walk break, I still made about 2.3 miles in 25 minutes, so that's pretty good. Additionally, this coming week is composed of three 25 minute runs. So I'm not going to repeat anything and I pretty much hope to work up to running for 25 minutes straight by the end of the week. I really hope the park clears up soon because I'd like to be able to run in circles and let my mind wander more, plus I'm not a huge fan of the people I encounter on the street.
By the way, I got home to find that my knee was bloody and swollen. It has continued to swell a bit; I now have a rather large bump that I'll be icing. When I told my sister about my knee, she reminded me that I totally fucked up my knee last January, as well. I was running up an escalator after getting up the el and I tripped on my heavy winter boot. My knee slammed into the spiky edge of an escalator stair and was a bloody mess. I think it was the same knee; apparently this is an annual thing. Just like last year, I took pictures. Here they are:
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Not pushing hard enough??
So, tonight I was acting like a GIANT baby, and I REALLY did not want to go running. There are a few reasons for this tantrum, however. First of all, I was planning on restarting week 4 yesterday, however due to a stupid accident that backed up my entire commute home, I got home at 7, my normal running time. This wouldn't have been a problem if I wasn't also STARVING, but I was, and we all know what happened last time I tried W4 D1 on an empty stomach, so I was screwed. So, due to the wrench thrown in my schedule, I was planning on heading to run AND go to yoga immediately following. I've been doing week 4 for a while now, so I figured it would be fine, but, I was wrong.
I'm not sure what is up, but I am not progressing nearly as well as my cohort, Amanda. As it is, Amanda had to coax me even going at all tonight, via text message. I feel so pathetic! To top all of this pathetic whining off, not only did I head home post run, but I didn't even do the final five minute run AT ALL. It's like, every time I try a week four, I get three of the runs perfect, but one of them is always slightly cheated, or, cut out entirely, like tonight. I'm also really bummed to not have gotten a chance to return to yoga. My problem with that tonight was the step class at 7 was still going at 8, and I did not want to spend another moment on the treadmill, so I left.
I'm also experiencing some new pain in my legs, YAY! I hadn't really had any shin issues too badly yet, but there they were tonight! Ugh, sorry I'm such a Debbie Downer, after Amanda's inspirational and educational post! I hope that I am not having ammonia smells without knowing it, since I cannot really smell. I guess I somehow justified giving up on the final run because of the intense pain in my side that appeared as I was supposed to start it, as well as being proud I went to the gym at all. My issue was over heating as well. I joined the gym in August, and I remember it being air conditioned pretty well, so I have a feeling that might be my favorite place to run when it's warm. I think I would really like running outside more often though, but working really puts a damper on my preferred schedule.
Oy, well I will try again on Saturday. It's supposed to be in the 40s here, which will also feel like summer compared to what we've had!! So, maybe that will help get me back into the positive, gung-ho place I was when we first started. One final thing. I honestly do not know if I am currently capable of running for longer than five minutes. I have a feeling week 4 might last even longer for me, but I guess we'll see! At least I'm trying, I guess!!
I'm not sure what is up, but I am not progressing nearly as well as my cohort, Amanda. As it is, Amanda had to coax me even going at all tonight, via text message. I feel so pathetic! To top all of this pathetic whining off, not only did I head home post run, but I didn't even do the final five minute run AT ALL. It's like, every time I try a week four, I get three of the runs perfect, but one of them is always slightly cheated, or, cut out entirely, like tonight. I'm also really bummed to not have gotten a chance to return to yoga. My problem with that tonight was the step class at 7 was still going at 8, and I did not want to spend another moment on the treadmill, so I left.
I'm also experiencing some new pain in my legs, YAY! I hadn't really had any shin issues too badly yet, but there they were tonight! Ugh, sorry I'm such a Debbie Downer, after Amanda's inspirational and educational post! I hope that I am not having ammonia smells without knowing it, since I cannot really smell. I guess I somehow justified giving up on the final run because of the intense pain in my side that appeared as I was supposed to start it, as well as being proud I went to the gym at all. My issue was over heating as well. I joined the gym in August, and I remember it being air conditioned pretty well, so I have a feeling that might be my favorite place to run when it's warm. I think I would really like running outside more often though, but working really puts a damper on my preferred schedule.
Oy, well I will try again on Saturday. It's supposed to be in the 40s here, which will also feel like summer compared to what we've had!! So, maybe that will help get me back into the positive, gung-ho place I was when we first started. One final thing. I honestly do not know if I am currently capable of running for longer than five minutes. I have a feeling week 4 might last even longer for me, but I guess we'll see! At least I'm trying, I guess!!
Week Six, Run Two
Today was 2 10-minute runs, with a 3-minute walk between them.
It is a balmy 38 degrees here! In Chicago, in January, that is tank top weather. No legwarmers or ninja mask today! In fact, in the middle of the second run, I felt it was way too warm out. Summer promises to be amazing for me.
The first run went pretty well. About seven minutes into the second run, I felt like I might vomit and/or die. I had to slow my pace severely, but I managed to not quit. I was really on the verge of walking. I have no idea how I will do 25 minutes for Saturday or Sunday! (I'd prefer to do Saturday but may not have time.) It's possible I ate too close to running, or it's possible that I am an out of shape chubbiekins and this is just gonna continue to be hard for me. Who knows.
So, that ammonia smell (it's ammonia, I googled it -- I'm just bad at naming cleaning supplies by scent). Apparently not a good thing. It means either I am not getting enough carbs pre-run and my body is burning protein (muscle), or I am not drinking enough water. However, it kind of sounds like this is if your sweat smells like ammonia, and I swear the scent is only in my nose, because it disappears after about two minutes. I have no idea, but I'll try to get more water in (I don't think a lack of anything in my diet can be to blame. I eat carbs and lots of them.)
It is a balmy 38 degrees here! In Chicago, in January, that is tank top weather. No legwarmers or ninja mask today! In fact, in the middle of the second run, I felt it was way too warm out. Summer promises to be amazing for me.
The first run went pretty well. About seven minutes into the second run, I felt like I might vomit and/or die. I had to slow my pace severely, but I managed to not quit. I was really on the verge of walking. I have no idea how I will do 25 minutes for Saturday or Sunday! (I'd prefer to do Saturday but may not have time.) It's possible I ate too close to running, or it's possible that I am an out of shape chubbiekins and this is just gonna continue to be hard for me. Who knows.
So, that ammonia smell (it's ammonia, I googled it -- I'm just bad at naming cleaning supplies by scent). Apparently not a good thing. It means either I am not getting enough carbs pre-run and my body is burning protein (muscle), or I am not drinking enough water. However, it kind of sounds like this is if your sweat smells like ammonia, and I swear the scent is only in my nose, because it disappears after about two minutes. I have no idea, but I'll try to get more water in (I don't think a lack of anything in my diet can be to blame. I eat carbs and lots of them.)
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Starting Week Six
I am such a dummy! On the way home, I realized I have three weeks and two runs left, which led me to realize that given nine FULL weeks, I was halfway done during run two LAST week, not during week four. I swear I used to do well in school, even in math :(
I just returned from my first run of the week and the smell of rubbing alcohol is very strong in my nose. What is this about? I'm totally googling it. It's warming up in Chicago -- starting tomorrow, we are going to be above freezing for a whole week! In January! Bust out the bikinis! But I dawdled and, though it was 31 when I got home today, it was 26 during my run. And it felt really cold until I hit the middle of my second run (btw today is 5 minute run, 8 minute run, 5 minute run). Probably because I only wore one pair of socks, did not wear and undershirt, and left the ninja mask at home.
I have to admit, I totally felt like I wouldn't make it through the second run. After completing last week, I felt confident that today would be a breeze, but it was not. I took two days off (which ideally I would like to quit -- I'd love to just run every other day -- but having the extra day to play with really helps create a realistic schedule). Plus I smoked like four cigarettes this weekend, though my lungs didn't actually feel too bad.
I finished, and I feel great now, of course. I wish I could tap into how I feel NOW when I'm sitting around lazy and lethargic pre-run, just for a second, for motivation.
I feel like I got a lot of weird looks on the street today (I tried the park, but the snow was too deep and slippery), and I'm over it. Even this one dude, who I know was either about to run or had just finished because he was doing runner's stretches; I tried to smile at him and he TURNED AWAY without smiling (this was during my post-run walk but I was all sweaty and briskly walking). I'm just going to get an XL t-shirt to wear over my sweatshirt that says FUCK YOU TOO. I don't like these people. Where is my encouraging old man when I need him?
Next run is two 10 minute runs on Thursday. Talk to you then!
I just returned from my first run of the week and the smell of rubbing alcohol is very strong in my nose. What is this about? I'm totally googling it. It's warming up in Chicago -- starting tomorrow, we are going to be above freezing for a whole week! In January! Bust out the bikinis! But I dawdled and, though it was 31 when I got home today, it was 26 during my run. And it felt really cold until I hit the middle of my second run (btw today is 5 minute run, 8 minute run, 5 minute run). Probably because I only wore one pair of socks, did not wear and undershirt, and left the ninja mask at home.
I have to admit, I totally felt like I wouldn't make it through the second run. After completing last week, I felt confident that today would be a breeze, but it was not. I took two days off (which ideally I would like to quit -- I'd love to just run every other day -- but having the extra day to play with really helps create a realistic schedule). Plus I smoked like four cigarettes this weekend, though my lungs didn't actually feel too bad.
I finished, and I feel great now, of course. I wish I could tap into how I feel NOW when I'm sitting around lazy and lethargic pre-run, just for a second, for motivation.
I feel like I got a lot of weird looks on the street today (I tried the park, but the snow was too deep and slippery), and I'm over it. Even this one dude, who I know was either about to run or had just finished because he was doing runner's stretches; I tried to smile at him and he TURNED AWAY without smiling (this was during my post-run walk but I was all sweaty and briskly walking). I'm just going to get an XL t-shirt to wear over my sweatshirt that says FUCK YOU TOO. I don't like these people. Where is my encouraging old man when I need him?
Next run is two 10 minute runs on Thursday. Talk to you then!
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Ugh, week 4
So, I have completed week 4, but I am not so energized about it. I don't really feel like I've accomplished as much as in weeks passed. I still seemed to be really struggling during the first five minute run, and it worries me, due to the intense jumps in time that week 5 is soon to bring. I am having a dilemma about whether I should even bother starting week 5, or if I should remain on week 4 until I feel I've really mastered the entire workout. I guess I will see how I feel on Tuesday, and decide then.
Although I don't feel like I completely rocked the workout, it was enjoyable overall. I moved from one town away nearly a year ago, and I am so in love with my new neighborhood. It's so beautiful, and a lovely place to observe when out and about. I have to say though, that winter outside running is not my favorite, if only for the fact that my nose WILL NOT STOP RUNNING WHEN I AM OUTSIDE! Amanda, I don't know how you deal with this, but the second I start moving, my nose just starts POURING. I am not even sick, it's just the effect that the cold has on me. It's rather annoying to deal with tissues while trying to run, and wearing gloves. Also, I think that the treadmill holds me a bit more accountable, as far as speed goes, but I'm not trying to win any marathons yet, so I guess it doesn't matter too much.
I have noticed that there is a really nice camaraderie between us runners/walkers on the street. Perhaps the time I spent as a New Yorker has jaded me, but I rarely acknowledge strangers on the street, I keep my head down and go. However, when I'm out in my gear, whether it be on the way to the gym, or during my outdoor runs, my fellow road warriors always smile, nod, wave, or even say hi. There's an unspoken bond that I really enjoy, and it is a great motivator. So, although I'm happy that I got myself out there to finish the week, I'm not sure I'm quite done with week 4, but I am ok with that.
Although I don't feel like I completely rocked the workout, it was enjoyable overall. I moved from one town away nearly a year ago, and I am so in love with my new neighborhood. It's so beautiful, and a lovely place to observe when out and about. I have to say though, that winter outside running is not my favorite, if only for the fact that my nose WILL NOT STOP RUNNING WHEN I AM OUTSIDE! Amanda, I don't know how you deal with this, but the second I start moving, my nose just starts POURING. I am not even sick, it's just the effect that the cold has on me. It's rather annoying to deal with tissues while trying to run, and wearing gloves. Also, I think that the treadmill holds me a bit more accountable, as far as speed goes, but I'm not trying to win any marathons yet, so I guess it doesn't matter too much.
I have noticed that there is a really nice camaraderie between us runners/walkers on the street. Perhaps the time I spent as a New Yorker has jaded me, but I rarely acknowledge strangers on the street, I keep my head down and go. However, when I'm out in my gear, whether it be on the way to the gym, or during my outdoor runs, my fellow road warriors always smile, nod, wave, or even say hi. There's an unspoken bond that I really enjoy, and it is a great motivator. So, although I'm happy that I got myself out there to finish the week, I'm not sure I'm quite done with week 4, but I am ok with that.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Completing Week Five
Yes, I said completing. I CAN RUN FOR 20 MINUTES STRAIGHT!!! I apologize for the repetitive nature of these celebratory posts, but seriously I think this is the first time in my 29 years of existence that I have run for 20 minutes, including back before I smoked. Honestly this is enough of an accomplishment for me, but I suppose I'll keep going.
It's like 17 degrees here; I wore 2 pairs of socks, the ninja mask (I wore it for about half the run, which is a first. I still think it messes up my breathing, though, so I had it down over my nose and mouth for most of the time), legwarmers, an undershirt, gloves... I've been chilly lately. The thought of running in the cold made me dilly-dally quite a bit before finally getting to the run.
The snow is still around and it's slushy in places but more sidewalks were clear (the park is still a no-go) so running today was a bit easier. One thing that is a problem is my stuffy nose; blowing one's nose while running is kind of a pain in the ass. Also, I'm still running around spitting everywhere. I'm gross.
I had several moments of "dear god, I cannot do this anymore." A couple because I was out of breath, a few about 10 minutes in when my ankles/lower calves were hurting pretty badly, and a few more when my heartbeat seemed to be warning of cardiac arrest. But in the end, the second 10 minutes (she tells you when you're halfway done, thank god) went much more quickly. I thought I would be judging time based the cues for the other days, but I somehow missed notification of the last 5 minute run. I was just thinking, "Oh my god, she hasn't announced that yet, I have at least four more minutes?!?!" when Carli announced that I was done. I was so surprised, I grunted. Not that I usually grunt in surprise, but I didn't have the energy or breath to say "What? Really?!"
Overall it was a good run, on to week 6!
It's like 17 degrees here; I wore 2 pairs of socks, the ninja mask (I wore it for about half the run, which is a first. I still think it messes up my breathing, though, so I had it down over my nose and mouth for most of the time), legwarmers, an undershirt, gloves... I've been chilly lately. The thought of running in the cold made me dilly-dally quite a bit before finally getting to the run.
The snow is still around and it's slushy in places but more sidewalks were clear (the park is still a no-go) so running today was a bit easier. One thing that is a problem is my stuffy nose; blowing one's nose while running is kind of a pain in the ass. Also, I'm still running around spitting everywhere. I'm gross.
I had several moments of "dear god, I cannot do this anymore." A couple because I was out of breath, a few about 10 minutes in when my ankles/lower calves were hurting pretty badly, and a few more when my heartbeat seemed to be warning of cardiac arrest. But in the end, the second 10 minutes (she tells you when you're halfway done, thank god) went much more quickly. I thought I would be judging time based the cues for the other days, but I somehow missed notification of the last 5 minute run. I was just thinking, "Oh my god, she hasn't announced that yet, I have at least four more minutes?!?!" when Carli announced that I was done. I was so surprised, I grunted. Not that I usually grunt in surprise, but I didn't have the energy or breath to say "What? Really?!"
Overall it was a good run, on to week 6!
Digging Deep
So, after a VERY ill advised three day break, I did W4 D2 last night. Unless you are in between weeks, or are somehow incapacitated, I STRONGLY advise keeping breaks to a two day max. Last night when I got to the gym, I was happy to see how empty it was. I guess most people don't want to start the weekend at the gym? Who knows. Regardless, I was psyched to see that there was a Friday nigh Zumba class happening as well, and this one is full of CRAZY dancing ladies that were really entertaining to watch, although they seemed to be having so much fun, I felt a bit jealous being stuck on a treadmill, but alas... I digress.
The beginning of the workout was tough, as it usually is for me, but I ran the entire three minute run, and kept going. About half way through the first five minute run, I was truly ready to give up. Andy and I were having a steak and martini night at home (not healthy, but I figured I would deserve it after a tough week capped off by a good workout). I seriously got into this mindset that I just couldn't stay on the treadmill any longer, and slowed to a walk after three minutes or so into that first five minute run. So, I kept walking, but I couldn't bring myself to slow down further, and I also kept thinking that I was being such a baby! I'd already restarted this week, and then took three days off, so, it was insane to even consider giving up! So, with that, I renewed my drive, and thought of you girls, my Mom, and Andy, who yelled "You can do it!" to me as I headed down the stairs on my way to the gym. I had been sharing my fear of being able to complete tonight's run with him after the long break, and although it was a simple sentiment, it helped!
I was really happy to complete the workout, and then felt totally ready for the amazing steak and martini that awaited me at home. I felt that I had earned it, and now, I am really looking forward to my outdoor run tomorrow! It is supposed to be super cold this weekend, but at least there's no snow in the forecast! Oh, and on a side note... although I have not lost any pounds since I started the program, I decided to measure myself, and I've lost a few inches! Some off my hips, waist, bust, and thighs! Nothing off my arms yet, sigh. I really need to get back to some weight lifting. Before the C25K, my time at the gym was spent on the ellipt ical, and then the weight machines. I would really like to get a couple weight sessions in a week, and to also get back to yoga.
Well, I feel as though I'm back on track, and although I am still terrified of starting week 5 on Tuesday, Amanda's amazing progress is helping me not get too freaked out about it. Also, I am so happy that I keep doing this, even though I had some issues with week 4, that I really don't care if I finish in the 9 weeks or not, as long as I finish!!
The beginning of the workout was tough, as it usually is for me, but I ran the entire three minute run, and kept going. About half way through the first five minute run, I was truly ready to give up. Andy and I were having a steak and martini night at home (not healthy, but I figured I would deserve it after a tough week capped off by a good workout). I seriously got into this mindset that I just couldn't stay on the treadmill any longer, and slowed to a walk after three minutes or so into that first five minute run. So, I kept walking, but I couldn't bring myself to slow down further, and I also kept thinking that I was being such a baby! I'd already restarted this week, and then took three days off, so, it was insane to even consider giving up! So, with that, I renewed my drive, and thought of you girls, my Mom, and Andy, who yelled "You can do it!" to me as I headed down the stairs on my way to the gym. I had been sharing my fear of being able to complete tonight's run with him after the long break, and although it was a simple sentiment, it helped!
I was really happy to complete the workout, and then felt totally ready for the amazing steak and martini that awaited me at home. I felt that I had earned it, and now, I am really looking forward to my outdoor run tomorrow! It is supposed to be super cold this weekend, but at least there's no snow in the forecast! Oh, and on a side note... although I have not lost any pounds since I started the program, I decided to measure myself, and I've lost a few inches! Some off my hips, waist, bust, and thighs! Nothing off my arms yet, sigh. I really need to get back to some weight lifting. Before the C25K, my time at the gym was spent on the ellipt ical, and then the weight machines. I would really like to get a couple weight sessions in a week, and to also get back to yoga.
Well, I feel as though I'm back on track, and although I am still terrified of starting week 5 on Tuesday, Amanda's amazing progress is helping me not get too freaked out about it. Also, I am so happy that I keep doing this, even though I had some issues with week 4, that I really don't care if I finish in the 9 weeks or not, as long as I finish!!
Friday, January 8, 2010
Quick Note About the Week 5 Podcast
Today -- 2 days after I needed it, crap! -- the awesome chick at Running Into Shape posted an updated Week 5 podcast with the correct 5 minute runs.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
I Can Run For Eight Minutes!!!!
This is an amazing discovery. I can do it, TWICE. In the snow.
I have no idea who is reading this -- you may or may not know that I live in Chicago. And we had a snowstorm today. I think there's probably like 5 inches or something out there; we're supposed to get 10 total. It's that fine, fluffy snow that is really hard to move in, so running was not an appealing idea (plus it's still in the teens, it's not that 32 degrees and snowing weather). But jumping from 5 minute runs to 8 minute runs meant there was no choice -- I really couldn't take a day off.
By the way, I did the math during one of the walking sections, and this was the first day that the running section was longer than walking. Tuesday, I ran a total of 15 minutes and walked a total of 16. Today, opposite -- ran 16, walked 15. Excellent!
Anyway. I wore two pairs of socks, leg warmers, my Yak Trax and my ninja mask (the mask until about halfway into run 1). The park was blanketed in snow so, yet again, I chose to run on the sidewalks. Some of which were not shoveled; walking and running on that was like running through sand. Thus, my legs are aching a bit again. My form suffers in the snow :( But it's not too bad. Also, both Tuesday and today, when I got home, I smelled weird things. It smelled like a hospital/disinfectant. I mentioned this to my sister (who has run marathons) and she said she used to smell weird things after running. This made me feel like a runner.
So, now... 20 minutes. 20 minutes! But I really thought maybe I couldn't do 8, and I did. And I only kind of felt like vomiting after. And I said "thank you" to the shovelers who stood to the side to let me pass, and this wonderful old man said something like, "make it a good one!" or some similar supportive thing in response, and I'll do 20 minutes just for him! Because I look like a total weirdo running in the snow but I love it, as do kind old men.
I'll report back on Saturday or Sunday!
I have no idea who is reading this -- you may or may not know that I live in Chicago. And we had a snowstorm today. I think there's probably like 5 inches or something out there; we're supposed to get 10 total. It's that fine, fluffy snow that is really hard to move in, so running was not an appealing idea (plus it's still in the teens, it's not that 32 degrees and snowing weather). But jumping from 5 minute runs to 8 minute runs meant there was no choice -- I really couldn't take a day off.
By the way, I did the math during one of the walking sections, and this was the first day that the running section was longer than walking. Tuesday, I ran a total of 15 minutes and walked a total of 16. Today, opposite -- ran 16, walked 15. Excellent!
Anyway. I wore two pairs of socks, leg warmers, my Yak Trax and my ninja mask (the mask until about halfway into run 1). The park was blanketed in snow so, yet again, I chose to run on the sidewalks. Some of which were not shoveled; walking and running on that was like running through sand. Thus, my legs are aching a bit again. My form suffers in the snow :( But it's not too bad. Also, both Tuesday and today, when I got home, I smelled weird things. It smelled like a hospital/disinfectant. I mentioned this to my sister (who has run marathons) and she said she used to smell weird things after running. This made me feel like a runner.
So, now... 20 minutes. 20 minutes! But I really thought maybe I couldn't do 8, and I did. And I only kind of felt like vomiting after. And I said "thank you" to the shovelers who stood to the side to let me pass, and this wonderful old man said something like, "make it a good one!" or some similar supportive thing in response, and I'll do 20 minutes just for him! Because I look like a total weirdo running in the snow but I love it, as do kind old men.
I'll report back on Saturday or Sunday!
Bone Bruise: It could happen to YOU!
Ladies and Gentlemen, I have been diagnosed by an expert. An expert that believes that I am too young to have fractured my knee so randomly and therefore don't need any sort of bone density scan and that what the mri shows is actually a bruise on the bone caused somehow by an impact while running. Let this be a warning to you - apparently hitting the ground too hard with your feet can cause your knee to bruise FROM THE INSIDE!!!!
This experience does help me reflect on the fact that I have excellent health insurance. I mean, I went to the doctor, the x-ray, the mri, the orthopedist, etc. and it cost me a whopping $15 out of pocket and $5 of that was for parking. Of course at the end of the day, I totally could have just skipped the whole ordeal and saved my $15 because there is no treatment and I just have to avoid running for the next three months to allow it to heal. By that time you ladies will be running marathons, I'm sure. My next checkup is in early Feb so the doc says we will re-evaluate the situation at that point.
I've decided that I'm not willing to just shrug off this whole endeavor. I WILL BE BACK in 3 months to do this with you. In the mean time I am going to WALK my 5Ks just to keep myself mobile and at least not go all the way back to couch potato status I bought a pedometer today at my WW meeting and since the meeting I've walked 1386 steps. I have no idea if this is a lot of steps or not but it equates to .63 miles so that's kind of impressive considering that I've just been puttering around my house. In any case it gives me something to focus on and blog about so I can still share the experience even though I'm now "differently able."
This experience does help me reflect on the fact that I have excellent health insurance. I mean, I went to the doctor, the x-ray, the mri, the orthopedist, etc. and it cost me a whopping $15 out of pocket and $5 of that was for parking. Of course at the end of the day, I totally could have just skipped the whole ordeal and saved my $15 because there is no treatment and I just have to avoid running for the next three months to allow it to heal. By that time you ladies will be running marathons, I'm sure. My next checkup is in early Feb so the doc says we will re-evaluate the situation at that point.
I've decided that I'm not willing to just shrug off this whole endeavor. I WILL BE BACK in 3 months to do this with you. In the mean time I am going to WALK my 5Ks just to keep myself mobile and at least not go all the way back to couch potato status I bought a pedometer today at my WW meeting and since the meeting I've walked 1386 steps. I have no idea if this is a lot of steps or not but it equates to .63 miles so that's kind of impressive considering that I've just been puttering around my house. In any case it gives me something to focus on and blog about so I can still share the experience even though I'm now "differently able."
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Starting Week Five, the Scariest of Weeks (thus far)
Week Five, Day One! Three sets of 5-minute runs, with 3-minute walks between them. I did it, I can officially kick ass by running for five minutes straight, three times in a row. Woo hoo! Now... on to Thursday's 8 minute runs, and then Sunday's 20 minute runs. Does that not seem insanely accelerated to you? I mean, seriously, I think like 3 weeks ago I was lucky to run for 90 seconds without dying? So... now I'm gonna up it by 15 minutes in 5 days. Who the hell created this crazy routine?
Today I was crabby and cold and sleepy when I got home from babysitting my friend's 16 month old. I was like, I want a sippy cup and a nap now, please, but I needed to run. I should have immediately eaten some soup and gone for the run like 30 minutes later, but I dilly-dallied at the computer and it got colder and I got crabbier. My sister got home and wanted to watch a crime drama with me and I was like, "LOOK I HAVE TO RUN. I'D RATHER DIE THAN RUN IN THE COLD, BUT THERE YOU GO." It was a really impressive display of being a bitter baby on my part.
So I got my butt in gear with her encouragement. It was like 19 degrees when I left the house, and I was all, oh I know this temperature. Ninja mask, you have no hold on me any longer, you are staying home.
Wtf? It was SO cold on my face and neck. Like, way colder than last week when it was around 20 degrees about every time I ran. It took at least a run and a half before I felt like I wasn't going to die of hypothermia. So I guess I'm taking the old mask next time.
I had to do the techno run, and it was okay. I prefer the pop music of Running Into Shape, but the techno does have those points that make you want to run whilst pumping your fist, which is okay to do if you are not in New Jersey because you are less likely to be mistaken for The Situation. Overall it was a good run, my lungs felt much much better than they did on Sunday, and I was so much less crabby when I got home. See you Thursday!
Today I was crabby and cold and sleepy when I got home from babysitting my friend's 16 month old. I was like, I want a sippy cup and a nap now, please, but I needed to run. I should have immediately eaten some soup and gone for the run like 30 minutes later, but I dilly-dallied at the computer and it got colder and I got crabbier. My sister got home and wanted to watch a crime drama with me and I was like, "LOOK I HAVE TO RUN. I'D RATHER DIE THAN RUN IN THE COLD, BUT THERE YOU GO." It was a really impressive display of being a bitter baby on my part.
So I got my butt in gear with her encouragement. It was like 19 degrees when I left the house, and I was all, oh I know this temperature. Ninja mask, you have no hold on me any longer, you are staying home.
Wtf? It was SO cold on my face and neck. Like, way colder than last week when it was around 20 degrees about every time I ran. It took at least a run and a half before I felt like I wasn't going to die of hypothermia. So I guess I'm taking the old mask next time.
I had to do the techno run, and it was okay. I prefer the pop music of Running Into Shape, but the techno does have those points that make you want to run whilst pumping your fist, which is okay to do if you are not in New Jersey because you are less likely to be mistaken for The Situation. Overall it was a good run, my lungs felt much much better than they did on Sunday, and I was so much less crabby when I got home. See you Thursday!
knee injuries: go big or go home!
Ladies, you continue to inspire me. I can't wait to hear about your 20 minute runs - the mere idea fills me with uncontrolled optimism about life. And let me tell you, I can really use the optimism right now.
The MRI images of my knee are in and it turns out that I actually BROKE A BONE IN MY LEG! I suppose that should make me feel pretty hardcore for walking around on it - I honestly thought I was just out of shape and a wuss for giving up after W2 D1. We'll see what the orthopedist has to say on Thursday. By now the swelling is gone but I'm still a bit sore (probably because of the elliptical machine workout I did yesterday just before the doctor called and told me not to) and very ready to be done with this whole knee scenario.
My list of questions for the doctor include:
The MRI images of my knee are in and it turns out that I actually BROKE A BONE IN MY LEG! I suppose that should make me feel pretty hardcore for walking around on it - I honestly thought I was just out of shape and a wuss for giving up after W2 D1. We'll see what the orthopedist has to say on Thursday. By now the swelling is gone but I'm still a bit sore (probably because of the elliptical machine workout I did yesterday just before the doctor called and told me not to) and very ready to be done with this whole knee scenario.
My list of questions for the doctor include:
- wtf?
- how did this happen?
- do I have a crazy brittle bone disease?
- seriously, wtf?
- I swear I've consumed more milk and cheese than is even advisable!
- I even eat those gummy calciums!
- and I've totally lost weight so my skeleton should be psyched for that.
- do I at least qualify for a handicapped parking pass?
Right now the most plausible explanation is alien abduction and time spent in a zero gravity environment leading to loss of bone density. That being the case, I guess it could have been worse.
--Alice
Monday, January 4, 2010
Week 4, Day 1, Take TWO!
When faced with the prospect of starting week 4 for the second time, I was absolutely terrified. Not only had I failed my first attempt, but it had been three full days (two of which were full of booze, a cheeseburger deluxe, and a heck of a lot of couch time) since then! Alas, the new year had started, the party is over, and it was time to get back to business, so after a long, cold Monday, I was ready to face the music.
When I got to the gym, I was not too surprised to see all the women who decided to start their New Year's resolutions, therefore raising the indoor temperature to even higher than when it's only kind of packed. Annoyed with the possibility of a bigger audience, I pressed on, remembering that Zumba would soon start for my amusement. I didn't get my new favorite treadmill, but I suppose I expanded my horizons by using a new one. So, with the fear that I might immediately collapse on the treadmill, or completely forget how to run, I got started.
Amazingly, I felt energized after the warm up, and powered through the first three minute run, with ease, dare I say! Even the recovery followed by the first five minute run was not so bad! I did the entire first five minute run without stopping! This was unbelievably encouraging, and thinking of what I would have to write later on, and the accomplishments Amanda have made this week helped me when I was feeling like I wanted to give up. The second three minute run was more of a struggle, but it was alright, and I made it all the way through, maintaining an even pace. The recovery before the final five minute run was where I was really beginning to feel it. The beginning of the last run was alright, but about a minute to 90 seconds in, I got a stitch in my side, that I could just not power through. I was feeling really proud by the time I got to this point, and knowing I have two more workouts in the week, I realized, it was ok! This is the type of day 1 I am used to! I don't believed I've ever completed the final run during any day 1, so at least I was consistent!
I am happy to have a day off tomorrow, but I'm also encouraged by how well I did with a three day, party filled break. I think that it was a really important lesson for me to learn. Several times in the past, I have given up on workout routines because I would take a break, and just be overwhelmed by the prospect of starting over from the beginning. If I fall off the wagon, it's ok, because I can always come back to the program. I am looking forward to the outdoor run I'll do this weekend. There really is nothing like running in the frigid cold, I can't wait to do it again! Finally, although I definitely have not lost any pounds so far, some people have asked me if I've lost weight. I think that I have finally found something that is helping me to tone up, and lose inches! My aches and pains are significantly dwindling with each run, and it's fantastic. Thanks to all of my friends and family who've been reading this, and supporting us all through this journey! It's really an amazing experience, and I couldn't do it without you!!
When I got to the gym, I was not too surprised to see all the women who decided to start their New Year's resolutions, therefore raising the indoor temperature to even higher than when it's only kind of packed. Annoyed with the possibility of a bigger audience, I pressed on, remembering that Zumba would soon start for my amusement. I didn't get my new favorite treadmill, but I suppose I expanded my horizons by using a new one. So, with the fear that I might immediately collapse on the treadmill, or completely forget how to run, I got started.
Amazingly, I felt energized after the warm up, and powered through the first three minute run, with ease, dare I say! Even the recovery followed by the first five minute run was not so bad! I did the entire first five minute run without stopping! This was unbelievably encouraging, and thinking of what I would have to write later on, and the accomplishments Amanda have made this week helped me when I was feeling like I wanted to give up. The second three minute run was more of a struggle, but it was alright, and I made it all the way through, maintaining an even pace. The recovery before the final five minute run was where I was really beginning to feel it. The beginning of the last run was alright, but about a minute to 90 seconds in, I got a stitch in my side, that I could just not power through. I was feeling really proud by the time I got to this point, and knowing I have two more workouts in the week, I realized, it was ok! This is the type of day 1 I am used to! I don't believed I've ever completed the final run during any day 1, so at least I was consistent!
I am happy to have a day off tomorrow, but I'm also encouraged by how well I did with a three day, party filled break. I think that it was a really important lesson for me to learn. Several times in the past, I have given up on workout routines because I would take a break, and just be overwhelmed by the prospect of starting over from the beginning. If I fall off the wagon, it's ok, because I can always come back to the program. I am looking forward to the outdoor run I'll do this weekend. There really is nothing like running in the frigid cold, I can't wait to do it again! Finally, although I definitely have not lost any pounds so far, some people have asked me if I've lost weight. I think that I have finally found something that is helping me to tone up, and lose inches! My aches and pains are significantly dwindling with each run, and it's fantastic. Thanks to all of my friends and family who've been reading this, and supporting us all through this journey! It's really an amazing experience, and I couldn't do it without you!!
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Finishing Week Four
Well, today's run did not reach the heights that Thursday's did. I mean, I made it, but I'm assuming that two days off, New Year's revelry that included about 10 cigarettes, subsequent weird sleeping schedule issues, a Big Mac yesterday and too much lunch prior to running are to blame. I feel kind of nauseous right now, though I waited over an hour after eating to run. I think I'll stick to like a yogurt or soup if I'm hungry before running (oddly, 1/2 a can of soup seems to work really, really well for me).
I think today was my first run while the sun was still fully out, and I have to say, I didn't like it. It was "19 degrees, feels like 5," but the damn sun throws that off. I went out in the ninja mask and just took it off immediately, it didn't feel cold at all out there. And my head is really sweaty now. Apparently I enjoy running in the cold darkness. Prepare to hear me bitch constantly over the summer.
I kind of felt like dying during the last run, a 5-minute one, but I made it. And again, the fear set in. Next week is a progressive week with a mixture of 5 and 8 minute runs, leading up to a 20 minute run on the last day. I will be running for 20 minutes a week from now?!?! That seems unpossible. Also annoying -- the Running into Shape podcast for next week will not work for days 1 and 2, because the five minute runs are 7 minutes. So it'll be weird techno time, I guess.
p.s. I think I've lost a bit of weight! I never remember to weigh myself in the morning and the holidays have obviously thrown everything off, but on New Year's Eve and Day, I reached lows I haven't seen in awhile. Don't think I can count New Year's Day though, as I was probably dehydrated and had just slept about 12 hours, thus eating nothing for half a day.
I think today was my first run while the sun was still fully out, and I have to say, I didn't like it. It was "19 degrees, feels like 5," but the damn sun throws that off. I went out in the ninja mask and just took it off immediately, it didn't feel cold at all out there. And my head is really sweaty now. Apparently I enjoy running in the cold darkness. Prepare to hear me bitch constantly over the summer.
I kind of felt like dying during the last run, a 5-minute one, but I made it. And again, the fear set in. Next week is a progressive week with a mixture of 5 and 8 minute runs, leading up to a 20 minute run on the last day. I will be running for 20 minutes a week from now?!?! That seems unpossible. Also annoying -- the Running into Shape podcast for next week will not work for days 1 and 2, because the five minute runs are 7 minutes. So it'll be weird techno time, I guess.
p.s. I think I've lost a bit of weight! I never remember to weigh myself in the morning and the holidays have obviously thrown everything off, but on New Year's Eve and Day, I reached lows I haven't seen in awhile. Don't think I can count New Year's Day though, as I was probably dehydrated and had just slept about 12 hours, thus eating nothing for half a day.
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