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.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
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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