Wednesday -- woke up but it was rainy out, so I opted not to run. Instead I did about an hour on the Wii and according to that I've lost some weight and lowered my BMI. Woo hoo.
Friday - woke up at 4 am, tried to go back to sleep but after being unsuccessful for an hour, got up to run. Found my pedometer but apparently managed to put it on upside-down or my waistband rolled over or something because at the end of my 30 minute run, I did 20 steps. It was really humid even at that hour and I sweated a lot. I was a total mess by the time I was done. I also brought along my spiffy new i-pod. Running with music was kind of nice. I'll have to program a mix to coordinate with my 30 minute run.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
I'm Back - June 7th
I had to take a few weeks off--my schedule was just too full. And that whole "do something for three weeks and it's a habit" does not work on me. I could do something for three years, miss one day and never look back.
Although I was making small progress on my last two runs (can I call them that if I'm still walking a lot? Maybe "ralking" is a better term) I still felt discouraged. I was really hoping to be in shape for the summer. Nothing screams Failure! more than not making your goal.
So now that Bud is home, I thought I'd try again.
Here's how it works. I go to bed thinking, I have to get up early to run, or ralk. Then I wake up about every 90 minutes wondering what time it is. At about 5:15 when I'm ready to pass into a coma, I realize it's time to get up.
Monday morning--5:30 AM I head out the door and up the street. Yep, no park this time. Bring on the hills. I had pretty much given up on the strict schedule of this many minutes walking, this many running. It was just too depressing to realize I couldn't make it past three minutes. I stopped timing myself and have no idea how long my longest run was. So I run when I feel like running and walk when I feel like walking. I always have to do things my way. It went amazingly well. I did run several times over the course of 30 minutes. I think I'll try that again on Wednesday.
Maybe this can become a habit afterall.
Although I was making small progress on my last two runs (can I call them that if I'm still walking a lot? Maybe "ralking" is a better term) I still felt discouraged. I was really hoping to be in shape for the summer. Nothing screams Failure! more than not making your goal.
So now that Bud is home, I thought I'd try again.
Here's how it works. I go to bed thinking, I have to get up early to run, or ralk. Then I wake up about every 90 minutes wondering what time it is. At about 5:15 when I'm ready to pass into a coma, I realize it's time to get up.
Monday morning--5:30 AM I head out the door and up the street. Yep, no park this time. Bring on the hills. I had pretty much given up on the strict schedule of this many minutes walking, this many running. It was just too depressing to realize I couldn't make it past three minutes. I stopped timing myself and have no idea how long my longest run was. So I run when I feel like running and walk when I feel like walking. I always have to do things my way. It went amazingly well. I did run several times over the course of 30 minutes. I think I'll try that again on Wednesday.
Maybe this can become a habit afterall.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Last Week
Last week I ran on Tuesday and Thursday. I was discouraged but sister Lynn gave me an inspiring story about a runner who only lost three pounds but lost five sizes. Guess that fat into muscle thing worked for her. So maybe that's my thing too. I have noticed my pants (some of them anyway) are a tad looser. So I could deal with the number on the scale if the number in my pants--wait, that doesn't sound right at all--well you know, the pants size went down.
Just to change things up, I went the opposite direction at the park. That worked well because everyone else was going counter-clockwise. I went clock-wise this time. I liked that better because I didn't have to try to speed up to get past someone. Or startle someone by running up behind them.
Imagine a large rectangle with a more or less rounded corner rectangle inside of it. That's the layout of the track around Howdershell Park. I managed to run from one corner down the long side to the other corner. Not a half lap, but the length of it. That was the farthest I've managed to run so far. It felt pretty good.
I did the same thing on Thursday.
Maybe I am making some progress.
Just to change things up, I went the opposite direction at the park. That worked well because everyone else was going counter-clockwise. I went clock-wise this time. I liked that better because I didn't have to try to speed up to get past someone. Or startle someone by running up behind them.
Imagine a large rectangle with a more or less rounded corner rectangle inside of it. That's the layout of the track around Howdershell Park. I managed to run from one corner down the long side to the other corner. Not a half lap, but the length of it. That was the farthest I've managed to run so far. It felt pretty good.
I did the same thing on Thursday.
Maybe I am making some progress.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Still Chuggin' Along
I walked. I ran. On Wednesday and on Saturday.
Feeling really discouraged. I thought regular exercise was supposed to give a person more energy. I feel half-dead most of the time. I don't feel like I'm making any progress whatsoever in running. Maybe this just isn't for me. Maybe I'm just too old to be doing this. Maybe I just have too much other stuff going on. I'll see how the rest of this week goes.
Feeling really discouraged. I thought regular exercise was supposed to give a person more energy. I feel half-dead most of the time. I don't feel like I'm making any progress whatsoever in running. Maybe this just isn't for me. Maybe I'm just too old to be doing this. Maybe I just have too much other stuff going on. I'll see how the rest of this week goes.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Monday Morning Blues
Still keeping up with my routine. Just didn't have it this morning. Felt tired and slow. Yet somehow I managed to get the most steps recorded than on any other day. My pedometer must be goofy or the running steps count extra. Yeah, that must be it.
Beatin' the Boys
I stayed on track and got to the park on Saturday--with two boys in tow. Josh had a friend spend the night and the deal was they both go with me in the morning to run.
They hung out on the playground while I did my laps. I retrieved them for the last two laps. Hey, can you guys run for one minute? Sure, no problem. At forty seconds, they stopped; I kept going. WOO HOO! Passed the boys.
Of course that was the challenge they needed. For the final trip around, they bet they could beat me back to the truck. They did. But that included my cool down period, so let's just say I let 'em win.
They hung out on the playground while I did my laps. I retrieved them for the last two laps. Hey, can you guys run for one minute? Sure, no problem. At forty seconds, they stopped; I kept going. WOO HOO! Passed the boys.
Of course that was the challenge they needed. For the final trip around, they bet they could beat me back to the truck. They did. But that included my cool down period, so let's just say I let 'em win.
Does This Make Me Look Fat?
Along with my new fun and very comfy shoes, I have purchased some appropriate clothing.
First item was a sports bra. I had a cotton one which made me look like I was twelve years old. Where did the girls go? It's like a mammogram in a bra. But "cotton is rotten" according to runners--everything needs to be moisture wicking fabric. Translate that into expensive. And I am so cheap. At KMart, I found Joe Boxer makes high and medium impact sports bras with molded cups and moisture wicking fabric. Perfect and I get to look like a woman. And they were cheaper than the cotton-make-you-flat-as-a-fried-egg type.
I had my one top I bought off the clearance rack when I got my shoes. Then I saw the Nike store at Mills had a clearance sale and I snatched up some serious 80% off sale price bargains--all with the special dry weave fabric.
Running clothes tend to be clingy and body conforming. The fabric can't do its job if it's not next to your skin. I get that. The tops might as well have big red arrows pointing to every bulge and roll. But I draw the line at the pants. My arse is big enough without being amplified by body hugging fabric. I had to go with regular cotton blend jogging pants. Tip--don't hem up pants before washing and buy a size larger. I thought I grew and inch and a half and gained 15 pounds overnight. The pants shrunk. A lot. With the granting of a small miracle, maybe, just maybe, by summer time, my hiney will not be considered an extra appendage and I can celebrate by wearing real running shorts. Long ones of course.
Niece Jessica has been inspired to start running. You go girl! She says she bought running shorts and she is one person who would look really good in them. For the rest of us in training, they are a cruel design. Someone should invent beginner running clothes for out of shape people. Something that won't make me look like a shrink-wrapped marshmallow.
I have to say though, the special fabric does its job. Even though I'm sweataing, I don't feel like a drowning pig. Might look like one, but we won't go there. Comfort is key.
First item was a sports bra. I had a cotton one which made me look like I was twelve years old. Where did the girls go? It's like a mammogram in a bra. But "cotton is rotten" according to runners--everything needs to be moisture wicking fabric. Translate that into expensive. And I am so cheap. At KMart, I found Joe Boxer makes high and medium impact sports bras with molded cups and moisture wicking fabric. Perfect and I get to look like a woman. And they were cheaper than the cotton-make-you-flat-as-a-fried-egg type.
I had my one top I bought off the clearance rack when I got my shoes. Then I saw the Nike store at Mills had a clearance sale and I snatched up some serious 80% off sale price bargains--all with the special dry weave fabric.
Running clothes tend to be clingy and body conforming. The fabric can't do its job if it's not next to your skin. I get that. The tops might as well have big red arrows pointing to every bulge and roll. But I draw the line at the pants. My arse is big enough without being amplified by body hugging fabric. I had to go with regular cotton blend jogging pants. Tip--don't hem up pants before washing and buy a size larger. I thought I grew and inch and a half and gained 15 pounds overnight. The pants shrunk. A lot. With the granting of a small miracle, maybe, just maybe, by summer time, my hiney will not be considered an extra appendage and I can celebrate by wearing real running shorts. Long ones of course.
Niece Jessica has been inspired to start running. You go girl! She says she bought running shorts and she is one person who would look really good in them. For the rest of us in training, they are a cruel design. Someone should invent beginner running clothes for out of shape people. Something that won't make me look like a shrink-wrapped marshmallow.
I have to say though, the special fabric does its job. Even though I'm sweataing, I don't feel like a drowning pig. Might look like one, but we won't go there. Comfort is key.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Look At Me Go!
Thursday (the 22nd). Back in the routine. Good.
At the park, there has not been more than two or three individuals or pairs of people walking. Today there was about ten. It's Earth Day and I guess everyone decided to get out and walk. But some left shortly after I got there or arrived as I was leaving, so it didn't get crowded.
One woman changed directions claiming it was easier to go clockwise than counterclockwise. It's amazing how much of a conversation you can have with a person in the five seconds it takes to pass each other. There is an ever so slight incline in one corner of the park. Like maybe three degrees. It's a challenge. But I go for it.
I liked the short spurts I did on Tuesday and decided I would do that again. I reason if I can get really comfortable and pick up the pace on very short runs, I will condition myself to run longer. I still feel so out of shape, it's pathetic.
I realize I'm jogging very slowly. I try to pick up the speed a little. I can do that. Okay, maybe I'm just not pushing myself enough. During one segment, I actually felt like I was really running. It was a huge confidence booster. I tried to repeat it the next time. Failed. Oh well. I run one-minute, three times over the course of a half-mile lap. You do the math. Does that count for a three minute run? No. Who am I kidding.
I concentrate on what I did differently to make it feel like I was truly running. I think it has to do with form. The angle of my body. How far I pick my feet up. My arms are doing what they're supposed to--bent at the elbow, swinging straight, not crossing over the middle line of my body. I'm breathing through my mouth like I'm supposed to. I'll have that magic moment again.
But let's talk about breathing for a moment. I've read you should do the "talk test." If you can't reasonably carry on a conversation without gasping for breath, you need to slow down. Aside from the aforementioned occassional five second conversations, I'm left to talk to myself. At the risk of looking and sounding like a crazy person, I do it. And every time it involves some pep talk, so I sound like the Little Train That Could, "I can do this, I can do this, I can do this."
At the park, there has not been more than two or three individuals or pairs of people walking. Today there was about ten. It's Earth Day and I guess everyone decided to get out and walk. But some left shortly after I got there or arrived as I was leaving, so it didn't get crowded.
One woman changed directions claiming it was easier to go clockwise than counterclockwise. It's amazing how much of a conversation you can have with a person in the five seconds it takes to pass each other. There is an ever so slight incline in one corner of the park. Like maybe three degrees. It's a challenge. But I go for it.
I liked the short spurts I did on Tuesday and decided I would do that again. I reason if I can get really comfortable and pick up the pace on very short runs, I will condition myself to run longer. I still feel so out of shape, it's pathetic.
I realize I'm jogging very slowly. I try to pick up the speed a little. I can do that. Okay, maybe I'm just not pushing myself enough. During one segment, I actually felt like I was really running. It was a huge confidence booster. I tried to repeat it the next time. Failed. Oh well. I run one-minute, three times over the course of a half-mile lap. You do the math. Does that count for a three minute run? No. Who am I kidding.
I concentrate on what I did differently to make it feel like I was truly running. I think it has to do with form. The angle of my body. How far I pick my feet up. My arms are doing what they're supposed to--bent at the elbow, swinging straight, not crossing over the middle line of my body. I'm breathing through my mouth like I'm supposed to. I'll have that magic moment again.
But let's talk about breathing for a moment. I've read you should do the "talk test." If you can't reasonably carry on a conversation without gasping for breath, you need to slow down. Aside from the aforementioned occassional five second conversations, I'm left to talk to myself. At the risk of looking and sounding like a crazy person, I do it. And every time it involves some pep talk, so I sound like the Little Train That Could, "I can do this, I can do this, I can do this."
Catching Up
Got off track--again. After my run on April 13, Josh was off school the rest of the week with severe allergies. Poor baby was just miserable and I couldn't bear to leave him and go run. It seemed too selfish even though there wasn't much I could do for him. So I postponed my training for another week.
It's frustrating to keep getting set back. Progress -- ha!
Tuesday (the 20th) I trotted around Howdershell Park trying to determine how much progress I lost. I didn't pay attention to the clock, just ran for very short spurts off and on. Okay, more off than on. I didn't get quite as many steps in as the prior week (on the 13th), but I did pretty good.
It's frustrating to keep getting set back. Progress -- ha!
Tuesday (the 20th) I trotted around Howdershell Park trying to determine how much progress I lost. I didn't pay attention to the clock, just ran for very short spurts off and on. Okay, more off than on. I didn't get quite as many steps in as the prior week (on the 13th), but I did pretty good.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Two Minutes
Yesterday it was time to run for two minute segments. I did it. Sort of. I'd make it a minute and a half, walk for a few minutes and then run another 30 to 45 seconds. Geez, that's sounds so wimpy and pathetic. Of course Joe Jogger had to zip past me and make me feel even more pathetic. But I did manage to walk past two old men. Woo hoo. It's all relative I suppose. The old men have twenty years on me and I have at least 20 (or 30 if I admit to being that old) years on Joe Jogger. And there is another accomplishment--I completed an extra lap within my 30 minute training (excluding warm up, stretch and cool down). I'll cling to that victory.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Back on Track
Saturday morning I thought I'd try out the track at the high school, but I saw a bus full of baseball players getting off, so I went to Howdershell Park again. I was surpised to see only one other person at the park. There were way more people there on Thursday morning. Guess everyone was home mowing their lawns.
I have my routine down at the park. Walk a half lap to warm up, stop at the picnic bench to stretch, begin my faster walk and nine minutes later start my run, walk, run, walk, run, slow down my pace to cool off, go to my truck and stretch, drive home.
My one minute runs were a little easier this time, but I can't imagine running for 30. I've been noticing a lot more runners on the streets and they seem to be effortlessly jogging along. This training may take longer than 12 weeks. Already, I'm a week off. I should be starting my three minute runs tomorrow, but I'm only at two.
There must be a fine line between pushing myself and pushing too hard. Where is that line? Will I know it before going past it? Or will I look back as the paramedics carry me away and say, yep, there it was.
I have my routine down at the park. Walk a half lap to warm up, stop at the picnic bench to stretch, begin my faster walk and nine minutes later start my run, walk, run, walk, run, slow down my pace to cool off, go to my truck and stretch, drive home.
My one minute runs were a little easier this time, but I can't imagine running for 30. I've been noticing a lot more runners on the streets and they seem to be effortlessly jogging along. This training may take longer than 12 weeks. Already, I'm a week off. I should be starting my three minute runs tomorrow, but I'm only at two.
There must be a fine line between pushing myself and pushing too hard. Where is that line? Will I know it before going past it? Or will I look back as the paramedics carry me away and say, yep, there it was.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Where I'd Go?
It's been a crazy busy week since my last post. Had a record-breaking number of shipments to leave the warehouse. Josh was off school Friday and Monday. Bud left for Nawlins. There was LOTS to do. Just call me the queen of excuses. No, they are valid reasons.
Although I didn't walk/run on Friday, I did go on a bicycle ride with Josh. In my book, that counts.
Saturday I went to work and pulled a muscle/strained my back. And I was even wearing a back support at the time. Go figure. The rest of Saturday and Sunday were not good. Bending over was nearly impossible. Monday was better but I had to take it easy. Tuesday was better still, but not quite. Wednesday we woke up at 4:00 am to take Bud to the airport and the rest of the day just evaporated. Went to bed at 8:30 pm.
On Easter of course, I shoveled candy into my mouth. Two pounds lost turned to two pounds gained right back. Better than two pounds up I guess. Darn those Peeps.
So here I am. Thursday. Back on track. Sort of. Supposed to be on two minute runs this week, but I reset and did one minute runs again.
I have discovered the most amazing thing during running. Whatever is flabby on my body is amplified by a hundred when brought to movement. UGH! Wow, I didn't know some parts could move like that. I'm an ugly mix of two ads--Jello and Nike. I'm taking those Peeps out for target practice.
See you this weekend.
Although I didn't walk/run on Friday, I did go on a bicycle ride with Josh. In my book, that counts.
Saturday I went to work and pulled a muscle/strained my back. And I was even wearing a back support at the time. Go figure. The rest of Saturday and Sunday were not good. Bending over was nearly impossible. Monday was better but I had to take it easy. Tuesday was better still, but not quite. Wednesday we woke up at 4:00 am to take Bud to the airport and the rest of the day just evaporated. Went to bed at 8:30 pm.
On Easter of course, I shoveled candy into my mouth. Two pounds lost turned to two pounds gained right back. Better than two pounds up I guess. Darn those Peeps.
So here I am. Thursday. Back on track. Sort of. Supposed to be on two minute runs this week, but I reset and did one minute runs again.
I have discovered the most amazing thing during running. Whatever is flabby on my body is amplified by a hundred when brought to movement. UGH! Wow, I didn't know some parts could move like that. I'm an ugly mix of two ads--Jello and Nike. I'm taking those Peeps out for target practice.
See you this weekend.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Week 2 - Day 5
I'm tired.
Josh woke up - by mistake - at 4 am. He went back to bed and so did I. I feel into a deep, deep sleep. Some kind of alarm buzzed a while later. Did not want to get up, but a little voice whispered, "It's time to run." Not-a-morning-person-Ruth held onto the pillow with a fierce hold and grumbled. "It's time to run."
It wasn't my voice. It was Josh's. How can this child be such a morning person? I drag (literally) myself out of bed. I can do this. I can overcome tiredness. I can overcome NOT being a morning person. I will run. Just do it. Wow, I'm becoming a Nike ad. Must be the clothes.
Look outside. Did you see the big beautiful moon this morning? Gorgeous. Check the temperature. Significantly warmer this morning--at least 15 to 20 degrees.
I get to the park. It's windy on one side. I hate doing anything in the wind. Wind is annoying. The sunrise was equally beautiful. I walk. I run. I walk. I run. I walk. Two elderly women have started walking. It's time to run. I'm too close to the ladies and they're spread out across the path. I'm afraid of startling them. At last, one turns and notices me and they scrunch closer together. I take off. Yeah--imagine a jet starting up. Whoosh. I said imagine.
I came home (showered, ate) and tied weights to my feet. Those would be my steel toed shoes. Went to work and picked up 3,268 pounds. Really. I hefted 76 boxes that weigh 43 pounds each. I think I got enough of a work out today.
I tired.
Josh woke up - by mistake - at 4 am. He went back to bed and so did I. I feel into a deep, deep sleep. Some kind of alarm buzzed a while later. Did not want to get up, but a little voice whispered, "It's time to run." Not-a-morning-person-Ruth held onto the pillow with a fierce hold and grumbled. "It's time to run."
It wasn't my voice. It was Josh's. How can this child be such a morning person? I drag (literally) myself out of bed. I can do this. I can overcome tiredness. I can overcome NOT being a morning person. I will run. Just do it. Wow, I'm becoming a Nike ad. Must be the clothes.
Look outside. Did you see the big beautiful moon this morning? Gorgeous. Check the temperature. Significantly warmer this morning--at least 15 to 20 degrees.
I get to the park. It's windy on one side. I hate doing anything in the wind. Wind is annoying. The sunrise was equally beautiful. I walk. I run. I walk. I run. I walk. Two elderly women have started walking. It's time to run. I'm too close to the ladies and they're spread out across the path. I'm afraid of startling them. At last, one turns and notices me and they scrunch closer together. I take off. Yeah--imagine a jet starting up. Whoosh. I said imagine.
I came home (showered, ate) and tied weights to my feet. Those would be my steel toed shoes. Went to work and picked up 3,268 pounds. Really. I hefted 76 boxes that weigh 43 pounds each. I think I got enough of a work out today.
I tired.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Day 4 - Week 2
With the forecast looking good this week, my thoughts turned to training outdoors. Obviously my first thought was to just walk out my door and around my neighborhood. Then I realized how many hills are in this subdivision. Hmmm.
Do I want to try to run uphill and feel defeated or run downhill and get a false sense of accomplishment? I decided that during "training" I'm giving myself a even playing field. I'll stick to level, flat terrain. I'll challenge myself with hills later. I need to be as successful as possible to keep my motivation up. I don't want to come up with excuses--I couldn't quite run the full time because it was uphill. I want to be fair to myself.
My outdoor options: Howdershell Park--has a paved half-mile path. Queen Ann and St. Ferdinand Parks-both have paved paths but not sure of the distance. Going a little farther away is Creve Coeur Park and of course the Katy Trail--can't get much flatter than that but I doubt I'll go the whole 300 miles.
Today I chose Howdershell Park. Had to scrape the ice off my windshield since I left the truck out and wondered -- Is today a good day to train outdoors? Seems a bit chilly. Put on another layer and a hat. Remembered my spiffy new water bottle belt but forgot the pedometer.
It was chilly. No, it was cold. Do I wimp out, go back to the truck and go to the mall? Maybe I should plan on going later in the day. No. Shut up and keep walking. Wish I had gloves. Pull my sleeves down around my hands. That feels better. Wishing my "warm-up" had more warmth in it. I pick up the pace and start my nine minute walk. Run for one minute. Walk for nine mintues. Run for one. Walk for nine. Run for one. Start my "cool down" which I don't really want to do since I'm finally feeling comfortable.
I did it! I ran for three one-minutes. Woo-hoo! I know that musn't sound like much, but running is not walking. Duh. Even the difference between speed walking and running is remarkable.
I think I can do this.
Do I want to try to run uphill and feel defeated or run downhill and get a false sense of accomplishment? I decided that during "training" I'm giving myself a even playing field. I'll stick to level, flat terrain. I'll challenge myself with hills later. I need to be as successful as possible to keep my motivation up. I don't want to come up with excuses--I couldn't quite run the full time because it was uphill. I want to be fair to myself.
My outdoor options: Howdershell Park--has a paved half-mile path. Queen Ann and St. Ferdinand Parks-both have paved paths but not sure of the distance. Going a little farther away is Creve Coeur Park and of course the Katy Trail--can't get much flatter than that but I doubt I'll go the whole 300 miles.
Today I chose Howdershell Park. Had to scrape the ice off my windshield since I left the truck out and wondered -- Is today a good day to train outdoors? Seems a bit chilly. Put on another layer and a hat. Remembered my spiffy new water bottle belt but forgot the pedometer.
It was chilly. No, it was cold. Do I wimp out, go back to the truck and go to the mall? Maybe I should plan on going later in the day. No. Shut up and keep walking. Wish I had gloves. Pull my sleeves down around my hands. That feels better. Wishing my "warm-up" had more warmth in it. I pick up the pace and start my nine minute walk. Run for one minute. Walk for nine mintues. Run for one. Walk for nine. Run for one. Start my "cool down" which I don't really want to do since I'm finally feeling comfortable.
I did it! I ran for three one-minutes. Woo-hoo! I know that musn't sound like much, but running is not walking. Duh. Even the difference between speed walking and running is remarkable.
I think I can do this.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Day 3
Woke up at 5:00 am and drank water. Went back to bed, but couldn't sleep because there was a buzz saw next to me, then Josh came in at 5:40, then Obie was bouncing around like a spastic ping-pong ball (he loves morning because it's time to eat).
Enough already--I'm up.
Got dressed, let the dogs out, let the dogs in. Josh had planned to go with me but his tummy wasn't feeling good, so he opted to stay home. It was 30 degrees outside, so I opted for the mall again.
At the mall I discovered I forgot my water bottle. Darn. Grabbed some money to buy a water in the mall. Found the first vending machine, $1.50 a bottle. Glad I had two dollars. Insert bills, punch in A8, tray goes up to collect bottle and then I realize there's something else in the tray. My water hits it and gets stuck. I think--maybe I'll get both. I give the machine a little punch, my water falls down, but only the something else is slid to the exit. My water will go to the next vendee. Darn. I got a Powerade punch flavor. Oh well, it could be worse.
No, it's the worst. Who drinks this stuff? Yuck. And the bottle was big and uncomfortable to hold. I do my walk and gag down the Powerade punch. Yuck.
I finally got to see the sun come up this morning. It was cloudy and gray earlier in the week. So I got to celebrate my favorite time of the day with the completion of my first week's training. But don't EVER call me a morning person--I just like the sunrise.
I have discovered two things that will need to be remedied to make my running more comfortable. One--I don't like holding a water bottle. It's cold, and then sweaty until it warms up and I have to keep switching hands. Two--my cell phone and keys in the pocket of my jacket are not going to feel good bouncing around.
I found a solution to all of those problems at my new favorite running store and since they sent me a coupon (love the freebies), I found all manner of belts, clips and pocket things. Wasn't sure if I'd like any kind of belted thing, but the clip on pocket-holders would only solve my storage problem. I'd still have to hold a water bottle. So I got a belted bottle holder with a zipper pocket. Of course it's made for runners, specially shaped, padded with air flow fabric, etc. I came home, filled the 20 ounce bottle with water and strapped it on. The bottle is held on the small of my back and is very easy to grab and replace while moving. I was surprised at how comfortable it is. I'll give it the real test on Monday--when I start running!
Enough already--I'm up.
Got dressed, let the dogs out, let the dogs in. Josh had planned to go with me but his tummy wasn't feeling good, so he opted to stay home. It was 30 degrees outside, so I opted for the mall again.
At the mall I discovered I forgot my water bottle. Darn. Grabbed some money to buy a water in the mall. Found the first vending machine, $1.50 a bottle. Glad I had two dollars. Insert bills, punch in A8, tray goes up to collect bottle and then I realize there's something else in the tray. My water hits it and gets stuck. I think--maybe I'll get both. I give the machine a little punch, my water falls down, but only the something else is slid to the exit. My water will go to the next vendee. Darn. I got a Powerade punch flavor. Oh well, it could be worse.
No, it's the worst. Who drinks this stuff? Yuck. And the bottle was big and uncomfortable to hold. I do my walk and gag down the Powerade punch. Yuck.
I finally got to see the sun come up this morning. It was cloudy and gray earlier in the week. So I got to celebrate my favorite time of the day with the completion of my first week's training. But don't EVER call me a morning person--I just like the sunrise.
I have discovered two things that will need to be remedied to make my running more comfortable. One--I don't like holding a water bottle. It's cold, and then sweaty until it warms up and I have to keep switching hands. Two--my cell phone and keys in the pocket of my jacket are not going to feel good bouncing around.
I found a solution to all of those problems at my new favorite running store and since they sent me a coupon (love the freebies), I found all manner of belts, clips and pocket things. Wasn't sure if I'd like any kind of belted thing, but the clip on pocket-holders would only solve my storage problem. I'd still have to hold a water bottle. So I got a belted bottle holder with a zipper pocket. Of course it's made for runners, specially shaped, padded with air flow fabric, etc. I came home, filled the 20 ounce bottle with water and strapped it on. The bottle is held on the small of my back and is very easy to grab and replace while moving. I was surprised at how comfortable it is. I'll give it the real test on Monday--when I start running!
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Day 2
Woke up at 5:00 and drank a lot of water. One tip I read was that it's important to be and stay hydrated; to drink 16 to 24 ounces of water about an hour or two before running, pee, and then drink a little more before starting. Now I don't think people who run first thing in the morning get up an hour or two earlier just to drink their water, but I'll have to talk to some morning runners.
But I drank my water and went back to bed for another 45 minutes. Yes, I got up at 5:45 again!
Josh wanted to go with me today. It was nice enough outside to go around the neighborhood, but he wanted to go to the mall and see what it was like. This time I remembered to set my watch and was more attuned to the warm up and cool down periods. There were more people at the mall today--several cleaning people, a couple more walkers and the ice rink was open for skaters to train. Josh said he liked going with me and it was fun to have him along.
This afternoon, however, we were playing wiffleball and I twisted my leg. My ankle, knee and thigh were hurting. Not bad, but I really hope it doesn't eaffect* me on Friday. (*can't remember if it's a or e, so you got both)
Okay, no more playing. This is serious stuff.
But I drank my water and went back to bed for another 45 minutes. Yes, I got up at 5:45 again!
Josh wanted to go with me today. It was nice enough outside to go around the neighborhood, but he wanted to go to the mall and see what it was like. This time I remembered to set my watch and was more attuned to the warm up and cool down periods. There were more people at the mall today--several cleaning people, a couple more walkers and the ice rink was open for skaters to train. Josh said he liked going with me and it was fun to have him along.
This afternoon, however, we were playing wiffleball and I twisted my leg. My ankle, knee and thigh were hurting. Not bad, but I really hope it doesn't eaffect* me on Friday. (*can't remember if it's a or e, so you got both)
Okay, no more playing. This is serious stuff.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Day 1
I set the alarm for 5:45 with a backup based more on reality at 6:15 and a true reality check that I could do my 30 minutes anytime between when I wake up and when I go to bed.
Five fifty, I'm up. Who am I?? I'm dressed and ready; it's just after six. But now I know why I don't get up at this hour. I look like hell! I look really, really old...er.
Weather check--cold. I think it's raining, but it's too dark to tell. I'm up, the sun is not. What is wrong with this picture? Not wanting to get my brand new shoes wet, I opt for the mall. Mills Mall opens at 6:00 am for walkers. Perfect.
The mall looks deserted. I'm wondering if the mall still opens early for walkers. The automatic doors to the mall don't open, but the side door is. I'm in. I can hear the conversation of the workers at Children's Palace. I stretch and warm up, zero my pedometer and take off. This place is kind of creepy with everything closed. All the little games and some vending machines make noise and talk, some stores leave music playing. Is that to make people think there's someone home?
I pass two separate walkers. I catch a profile of myself in a window reflection. Whose butt is following me? Oh, that is me. Walk faster.
Walk? Yes. According to "the plan" I'm supposed to walk the first week. But I walked with purpose, arms in forward motion, a comfortable stride. I'm not sure just how fast I'm supposed to go. Thirty minutes, three times a week--that's the plan and a gradual build up to a full run for 30 minutes. I forgot to check the exact time when I started, so I went a little longer to make sure.
I'm also supposed to take a day off in between, but I'm free to do all the abdominal exercises I want. Yippee.
See you on Wednesday.
Five fifty, I'm up. Who am I?? I'm dressed and ready; it's just after six. But now I know why I don't get up at this hour. I look like hell! I look really, really old...er.
Weather check--cold. I think it's raining, but it's too dark to tell. I'm up, the sun is not. What is wrong with this picture? Not wanting to get my brand new shoes wet, I opt for the mall. Mills Mall opens at 6:00 am for walkers. Perfect.
The mall looks deserted. I'm wondering if the mall still opens early for walkers. The automatic doors to the mall don't open, but the side door is. I'm in. I can hear the conversation of the workers at Children's Palace. I stretch and warm up, zero my pedometer and take off. This place is kind of creepy with everything closed. All the little games and some vending machines make noise and talk, some stores leave music playing. Is that to make people think there's someone home?
I pass two separate walkers. I catch a profile of myself in a window reflection. Whose butt is following me? Oh, that is me. Walk faster.
Walk? Yes. According to "the plan" I'm supposed to walk the first week. But I walked with purpose, arms in forward motion, a comfortable stride. I'm not sure just how fast I'm supposed to go. Thirty minutes, three times a week--that's the plan and a gradual build up to a full run for 30 minutes. I forgot to check the exact time when I started, so I went a little longer to make sure.
I'm also supposed to take a day off in between, but I'm free to do all the abdominal exercises I want. Yippee.
See you on Wednesday.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Getting Ready - Shoes
I researched running, running for beginners, training, running barefoot, running shoes, walking versus running and about a dozen other related topics.
There's a buzz lately about running barefoot. I can understand the benefits of that. After considering the pros and cons, I decided I am a shoe person. A thousand shoe manufacturers agree, but did I need a special running shoe? I tried to find the most unbiased reports and comments. Yes, in order to be a "successful" runner, I need good running shoes. Of course, anyone can run in any shoe. But my goal is to run pain free, injury free and to enjoy the sport. So I bucked up. It was hard. I buy the vast majority of everything I wear from the clearance rack. The thought of spending more than ten dollars for a pair of shoes took some convincing.
For your first pair, you need the expertise of a trained running shoe person, at a specialty running store. The nice young lady asked me lots of questions, then examined and measured my feet, while sitting, while standing and watched me walk. She punched the results into a gizmo that told her the best shoes for me. I tried on four pair, with custom insoles and special socks. They are without a doubt, THE most comfortable shoes I've EVER worn. It's recommended to only wear one's running shoes while running, and therefore, they will last longer. I have a model that will last 500 miles. I feel like I bought tires for my feet. But now that I know what to buy, future shoes will be cheaper to buy on-line.
There's a buzz lately about running barefoot. I can understand the benefits of that. After considering the pros and cons, I decided I am a shoe person. A thousand shoe manufacturers agree, but did I need a special running shoe? I tried to find the most unbiased reports and comments. Yes, in order to be a "successful" runner, I need good running shoes. Of course, anyone can run in any shoe. But my goal is to run pain free, injury free and to enjoy the sport. So I bucked up. It was hard. I buy the vast majority of everything I wear from the clearance rack. The thought of spending more than ten dollars for a pair of shoes took some convincing.
For your first pair, you need the expertise of a trained running shoe person, at a specialty running store. The nice young lady asked me lots of questions, then examined and measured my feet, while sitting, while standing and watched me walk. She punched the results into a gizmo that told her the best shoes for me. I tried on four pair, with custom insoles and special socks. They are without a doubt, THE most comfortable shoes I've EVER worn. It's recommended to only wear one's running shoes while running, and therefore, they will last longer. I have a model that will last 500 miles. I feel like I bought tires for my feet. But now that I know what to buy, future shoes will be cheaper to buy on-line.
The Decision
I have a certain belief that each of us are given signs to guide us. (From who or what is up to you to decide.) If a particular topic continues to pop up in my life, I feel the need to follow it through and see where it leads.
For Christmas, Santa brought the family a Wii Fit. It's a blast. I love it. I like that it automatically tracks your progress and there's a variety of exercises to do. I like the running, but running in place I don't like. How would I do if I actually ran?
About a month or so ago, I received a postcard in the mail about a beginner's running program. At first I wondered how I got on such a mailing list. It's not like I'm a member of a gym or anything else remotely athletic or fitness related. The idea intrigued me.
I've met a few runners recently and one thing I've noticed--none of them are overweight.
I loved to run when I was 12 to 14 years old. I didn't realize it at the time, but not only did it help me physically, it also helped me mentally. I was definitely running away from a lot of issues then. Running freed me.
So after seeing, meeting, remembering all these running signs, I've decided to run.
For Christmas, Santa brought the family a Wii Fit. It's a blast. I love it. I like that it automatically tracks your progress and there's a variety of exercises to do. I like the running, but running in place I don't like. How would I do if I actually ran?
About a month or so ago, I received a postcard in the mail about a beginner's running program. At first I wondered how I got on such a mailing list. It's not like I'm a member of a gym or anything else remotely athletic or fitness related. The idea intrigued me.
I've met a few runners recently and one thing I've noticed--none of them are overweight.
I loved to run when I was 12 to 14 years old. I didn't realize it at the time, but not only did it help me physically, it also helped me mentally. I was definitely running away from a lot of issues then. Running freed me.
So after seeing, meeting, remembering all these running signs, I've decided to run.
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