Tonight was my first opportunity to run since the race on Sunday. I've been tired and stressed and emotional and I wasn't sure what to expect. What I did know is that I need to be running at least 3 miles on every run now if I'm going to improve and reach my goals.
Surprisingly, tonight went well. Ran quite a bit and felt good. It was humid, holy hell was it humid. My time was slower than I wanted, and slower than Sunday, but I really do think the humidity played a role and slowed me down. I also struggled with my breathing about halfway through and that didn't help. Oh, and there was a pitbull on a leash just running circles and trying to get at me - I was praying that the leash would hold him and I couldn't quite figure out if I wanted to be slow and calculated as I moved past him or if I wanted to run like hell. I was slow and calculated...but moved my legs as fast as they would go.
I've set new goals, goals I believe are obtainable and also smart as I continue to train. I do still have more than 200 days until this half and I don't want to get burnt out waiting for it to come but I also don't want it to be the only goal I strive for. So, I'm signing up for a 10K in October and a 15K in November. I feel like those will be great accomplishments for me to strive for and also benchmarks to improve on. If I can do a 15K in November, the half-marathon won't feel near as daunting. I think this will also help me increase my mileage at a good pace. We'll see....
What surprises me most about all of this - I'm having fun. I really am. I think I'm becoming a runner.
Todays's Stats:
3.19 miles
41:09 minutes
12:55 avg min/mil
If the half-marathon was today: appox. 3:03
Goals for next run
Going to try to get another 5K in tomorrow night. Really want to come in under 40 minutes.
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Monday, July 29, 2013
Sunday, July 28, 2013
First 5K = Success
This morning, I participated in my first competitive 5K.
In my life, I have only ran in 2, maybe 3 5Ks. All were for fun with no time kept. So when I decided to begin training for the half-marathon I decided I would also compete in at least one 5K each month as a way to push myself, get used to running in races and also set benchmarks. Once I found out about the corrals for the half-marathon, I decided to try a 10K in either October or November - or both.
Anyway, this morning was my first timed 5K. I'm looking to run in races that are fun, so the pain and exhaustion is short lived. Today's race was the Volkswagen 5K Jersey Race at the MLS All-Star Game. I couldn't sleep last night and had a sour stomach. I can't believe I was actually nervous for this race, but I think I was. I managed to grab 4+ hours of sleep before hitting the road to Downtown Kansas City for the race. I got there pretty early, but it gave me a chance to stretch, warm up a bit and try to calm my nerves.
I think there were around 530 runners - the highest bib number I saw was 522. I don't think my other 5K's had less than 1,500 so this was going to be different. I had my goals: don't finish last, run more than I walked and have fun. I also gave myself 3 time goals: 35 minute pipe dream time, 38 minute "I'll take it!" time and a 42 minute maximum time. I also wanted to finish strong - run across the finish line without wanting to pass out or throw up.
I started mid-pack. Not sure if I started out too hard or was just not ready with the lack of training I've had this week, but I struggled pretty early in the race. Ran about .35 miles, which is below my norm. We had a decent hill right at the beginning so not sure how much of a factor that played. I was discouraged early - the self doubt creeped in pretty quick. I struggled breathing and found myself gasping for air. I knew this wasn't how I wanted to feel or how I wanted my race to go. So I forced myself to slow down, relax and catch my breath. I knew I still had just under 3 miles to go and I had to power through and get my groove back. I finally felt normal and started to run my race. It felt like forever before that first mile marker - and the second marker seemed even further to get to. But, I kept going. And holy smokes, there were a lot of hills. I decided to run down every hill and I managed to run up at least one - and I think half of another. We made a turn and I saw we were close to the finish line. My GPS told me about 1/2 a mile to go. I suddenly realized I was smiling a HUGE smile and started running. I was going to run that last half mile and I was going to cross that finish line strong. I felt so good that last job and crossed that finish line with a smile.
39:38 in my first competitive/timed 5K and you know, I'll take it!! 38 minutes was my realistic goal and I was only 90 seconds away from it. I had no way of knowing what time goals to set for myself - I was going off my pacing in my training runs so far. Even then, I had yet to go 3 miles so I had no idea what to expect. As I approached the finished line, I saw the clock was at 39 minutes - I picked up my pace just a little bit more so I could ensure my time would be under 40 minutes.
Again, I have no idea how many people total ran the race, nor do I know how many were in my division. Maybe I'll figure it out once they post results on time. Until then - I improved in pretty much every category so far. But, most importantly, I busted through the mental block that again tried telling me I couldn't do it and I finished the race. No excuses now - my training runs need to be 3 miles for a while now.
Todays's Stats:
3.1 miles
39:38.22 minutes
12:48 avg min/mil
If the half-marathon was today: appox. 3:02
Goals for next run
Going to try to get a 5K in on Tuesday at be under 38 minutes.
In my life, I have only ran in 2, maybe 3 5Ks. All were for fun with no time kept. So when I decided to begin training for the half-marathon I decided I would also compete in at least one 5K each month as a way to push myself, get used to running in races and also set benchmarks. Once I found out about the corrals for the half-marathon, I decided to try a 10K in either October or November - or both.
Anyway, this morning was my first timed 5K. I'm looking to run in races that are fun, so the pain and exhaustion is short lived. Today's race was the Volkswagen 5K Jersey Race at the MLS All-Star Game. I couldn't sleep last night and had a sour stomach. I can't believe I was actually nervous for this race, but I think I was. I managed to grab 4+ hours of sleep before hitting the road to Downtown Kansas City for the race. I got there pretty early, but it gave me a chance to stretch, warm up a bit and try to calm my nerves.
The start/finish line at the Power & Light District, downtown KC.
I think there were around 530 runners - the highest bib number I saw was 522. I don't think my other 5K's had less than 1,500 so this was going to be different. I had my goals: don't finish last, run more than I walked and have fun. I also gave myself 3 time goals: 35 minute pipe dream time, 38 minute "I'll take it!" time and a 42 minute maximum time. I also wanted to finish strong - run across the finish line without wanting to pass out or throw up.
I started mid-pack. Not sure if I started out too hard or was just not ready with the lack of training I've had this week, but I struggled pretty early in the race. Ran about .35 miles, which is below my norm. We had a decent hill right at the beginning so not sure how much of a factor that played. I was discouraged early - the self doubt creeped in pretty quick. I struggled breathing and found myself gasping for air. I knew this wasn't how I wanted to feel or how I wanted my race to go. So I forced myself to slow down, relax and catch my breath. I knew I still had just under 3 miles to go and I had to power through and get my groove back. I finally felt normal and started to run my race. It felt like forever before that first mile marker - and the second marker seemed even further to get to. But, I kept going. And holy smokes, there were a lot of hills. I decided to run down every hill and I managed to run up at least one - and I think half of another. We made a turn and I saw we were close to the finish line. My GPS told me about 1/2 a mile to go. I suddenly realized I was smiling a HUGE smile and started running. I was going to run that last half mile and I was going to cross that finish line strong. I felt so good that last job and crossed that finish line with a smile.
39:38 in my first competitive/timed 5K and you know, I'll take it!! 38 minutes was my realistic goal and I was only 90 seconds away from it. I had no way of knowing what time goals to set for myself - I was going off my pacing in my training runs so far. Even then, I had yet to go 3 miles so I had no idea what to expect. As I approached the finished line, I saw the clock was at 39 minutes - I picked up my pace just a little bit more so I could ensure my time would be under 40 minutes.
Again, I have no idea how many people total ran the race, nor do I know how many were in my division. Maybe I'll figure it out once they post results on time. Until then - I improved in pretty much every category so far. But, most importantly, I busted through the mental block that again tried telling me I couldn't do it and I finished the race. No excuses now - my training runs need to be 3 miles for a while now.
Todays's Stats:
3.1 miles
39:38.22 minutes
12:48 avg min/mil
If the half-marathon was today: appox. 3:02
Goals for next run
Going to try to get a 5K in on Tuesday at be under 38 minutes.
Saturday, July 27, 2013
Nervous and excited
Tomorrow is my first competitive 5K ever. And, considering I've only done 3 5Ks in my life, that's saying a lot. Picked up my packet and my timing chip (yipes) today and I've already laid out my clothes for tomorrow. To say that it will be unseasonably cool in the morning is an understatement - 59 degrees at race time...at the end of July. Just crazy.
I haven't drank enough water today, and I know it. I could be in trouble tomorrow. I need to increase my water intake soon!! Going to flood by body the rest of the night so I make it through the race.
I'm really excited, and really nervous. Just want to turn in a good time, run more than I walk, and have fun. I don't want to take longer than 42 minutes - but my pipe dream goal is 35 minutes and I think it can do. Split the difference, and I'll be a happy girl!
I haven't drank enough water today, and I know it. I could be in trouble tomorrow. I need to increase my water intake soon!! Going to flood by body the rest of the night so I make it through the race.
I'm really excited, and really nervous. Just want to turn in a good time, run more than I walk, and have fun. I don't want to take longer than 42 minutes - but my pipe dream goal is 35 minutes and I think it can do. Split the difference, and I'll be a happy girl!
Friday, July 26, 2013
Not how I wanted the week to go....
Thank goodness I've given myself 200+ days to train for this half marathon because it has been difficult the past couple weeks to get the days of practice in that I want. Last night was no exception. We had plenty of weather in the area and I wasn't sure if the nasty stuff would hold long enough for me to run. I had also expected Mark to be home a little earlier than he was, allowing me time to go finally go to a running store and get fitted for shoes. While the weather may have held out long enough, Mark definitely wasn't home soon enough for me to fit both in. So, I made the decision the go get my shoe situation figured out - while it took away a day of training, the hope of no longer running in pain was worth it.
Mike from Garry Gribbles was awesome. My feet are a mess - and the shoes I've been running in were definitely not right for my feet. Tried on several types, brands, etc. - even had to go to men's sizes. We found a couple that were pretty darn close. None were a perfect fit, but I got the impression that Mike was doing everything but coming right out and telling me perfect fit wasn't possible. I was willing to go ahead and spend the money on a pair even if they weren't quite perfect - mainly because they had to be better than what I've been running in. I jogged the sidewalk in front of the store before purchasing and they felt pretty good. Maybe a little tight on the left side but my hope is that is because they are brand new.
Mark left this morning for a quick road trip, back tomorrow night, which means I won't be able to train at all before the race on Sunday. Against my better judgement, I am going to break the new shoes in during the 5K. I just feel like that running that race in the shoes that don't fit right will be worse than breaking in new shoes. I guess we'll see. I'm excited for the race - disappointed that I won't be able to get a few miles in before the starting line.
My goal for Sunday's 5K - complete it in 35 minutes. I've been pacing about a 42 minute 5K, but that was with multiple stops due to the pain in my feet and legs. I'm hoping the new shoes will help me push through and meet my goal. I'll be ecstatic at 40 minutes, but am striving for 35.
Mike from Garry Gribbles was awesome. My feet are a mess - and the shoes I've been running in were definitely not right for my feet. Tried on several types, brands, etc. - even had to go to men's sizes. We found a couple that were pretty darn close. None were a perfect fit, but I got the impression that Mike was doing everything but coming right out and telling me perfect fit wasn't possible. I was willing to go ahead and spend the money on a pair even if they weren't quite perfect - mainly because they had to be better than what I've been running in. I jogged the sidewalk in front of the store before purchasing and they felt pretty good. Maybe a little tight on the left side but my hope is that is because they are brand new.
Mark left this morning for a quick road trip, back tomorrow night, which means I won't be able to train at all before the race on Sunday. Against my better judgement, I am going to break the new shoes in during the 5K. I just feel like that running that race in the shoes that don't fit right will be worse than breaking in new shoes. I guess we'll see. I'm excited for the race - disappointed that I won't be able to get a few miles in before the starting line.
My goal for Sunday's 5K - complete it in 35 minutes. I've been pacing about a 42 minute 5K, but that was with multiple stops due to the pain in my feet and legs. I'm hoping the new shoes will help me push through and meet my goal. I'll be ecstatic at 40 minutes, but am striving for 35.
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
Keep on runnin....
After not having a chance to lace up the running shoes since Saturday, I was actually really nervous about my run tonight. I didn't have a great day overall and ate dinner a little late. Normally, that nasty little voice would have taken over and I would have found a million excuses to just stay home and watch my Royals play. Instead, I couldn't wait to go for a run. I found myself thinking about the run several times throughout the day and just waiting to get changed and head out. I seriously cannot believe this. I actually enjoy running - I'm excited about it. I just might do this after all!
I'm not sure what happened, but either the GPS on my phone was off tonight, or it has been off every other night. It's been telling me for about a week now that I've been running my first half mile - but tonight I ran further than the normal half mile marker, and you couldn't wipe the smile off my face, until I checked the GPS and it said I ran less than half a mile. I was upset and fought really hard to not be discouraged. I had been so excited about that first half mile. So, instead of being mad, I tried to focus on the fact that I had ran the longest so far on my little journey and tried to increase my run distance. My splits were really bad tonight and I'm not sure why. But, I won't let it upset me. I'm just going to pat myself on the back for getting out the door and getting a good run in. I only have Thursday left this week to train, then on Sunday is my first 5K since I decided to run the half marathon. I plan on running a 5K each month until November, when I hope to run a 10K. I am using Sunday as a good benchmark to see how I do and how I've progressed.
I am also hoping tomorrow to go to a running store and get my feet measured and get this shoe thing figured out.
Todays's Stats:
2.72 miles
38:07 minutes
14:01 avg min/mil
If the half-marathon was today: appox. 3:03
Goals for next run
I really need to get 3 miles in on Thursday so I'm ready for the 5K on Sunday. I really want to come in under 40 minutes during the race and I'm pretty sure I can do it.
I'm not sure what happened, but either the GPS on my phone was off tonight, or it has been off every other night. It's been telling me for about a week now that I've been running my first half mile - but tonight I ran further than the normal half mile marker, and you couldn't wipe the smile off my face, until I checked the GPS and it said I ran less than half a mile. I was upset and fought really hard to not be discouraged. I had been so excited about that first half mile. So, instead of being mad, I tried to focus on the fact that I had ran the longest so far on my little journey and tried to increase my run distance. My splits were really bad tonight and I'm not sure why. But, I won't let it upset me. I'm just going to pat myself on the back for getting out the door and getting a good run in. I only have Thursday left this week to train, then on Sunday is my first 5K since I decided to run the half marathon. I plan on running a 5K each month until November, when I hope to run a 10K. I am using Sunday as a good benchmark to see how I do and how I've progressed.
I am also hoping tomorrow to go to a running store and get my feet measured and get this shoe thing figured out.
Todays's Stats:
2.72 miles
38:07 minutes
14:01 avg min/mil
If the half-marathon was today: appox. 3:03
Goals for next run
I really need to get 3 miles in on Thursday so I'm ready for the 5K on Sunday. I really want to come in under 40 minutes during the race and I'm pretty sure I can do it.
Monday, July 22, 2013
Sunday, July 21, 2013
Saturday, July 20, 2013
Slowly getting there...
Took me a while to get up and get going this morning, but I was determined to make this another long run day. I have a 5K in one week and I want to set a good benchmark for the rest of my training.
Today was good - little bit of pain, but I pushed through. I'm pretty sure the pain is coming from the lack of flexibility - I know I need to stretch more and am trying to work that into my daily routine.
I stopped towards the beginning of my run to talk to my uncle, and then forgot to start my run timer again. So, I know I finally broke 3 miles even though my stats say I ran less. I'm really happy with how I did today and how I feel.
Todays's Stats:
2.86 miles
39:33 minutes
13:49 avg min/mil
If the half-marathon was today: appox. 3:00
Goals for next run
I'm supposed to have a slow run tomorrow but I won't be able. So, I'll enjoy a couple days off until Tuesday - but in the meantime will continue to stretch out and increase my flexibility.
Today was good - little bit of pain, but I pushed through. I'm pretty sure the pain is coming from the lack of flexibility - I know I need to stretch more and am trying to work that into my daily routine.
I stopped towards the beginning of my run to talk to my uncle, and then forgot to start my run timer again. So, I know I finally broke 3 miles even though my stats say I ran less. I'm really happy with how I did today and how I feel.
Todays's Stats:
2.86 miles
39:33 minutes
13:49 avg min/mil
If the half-marathon was today: appox. 3:00
Goals for next run
I'm supposed to have a slow run tomorrow but I won't be able. So, I'll enjoy a couple days off until Tuesday - but in the meantime will continue to stretch out and increase my flexibility.
Friday, July 19, 2013
Earlier than usual...
Spending a few days at my parents house so my running schedule, and route, is going to be a little off. I'm excited about the change of pace and scenery. I had hoped to run last night, but an ill-advised dinner choice (food choices are my next major hurdle to overcome) sat in my gut all night, so I chose to get up and run this morning. Got going a little later than I had planned but didn't let the negative voice win out and convince me to stay home.
I could tell this run would be different. My body was not fully warmed up and ready to go. Took me a while to get into a groove. I couldn't even run the first half-mile, which is something I've been able to do since my third run. It was at that time, I decided just to get my miles in, try to keep my average down and just make it back to the house. I didn't set any personal bests, but mentally, I crushed it. I could have given up at anytime and headed back, but I didn't. I kept going, kept pushing - if I wasn't ready to run, I just walked a little faster. Slowly, but surely, I'm getting there.
I also told my parents about this crazy decision yesterday - not sure what they think based on their reactions. I know my mom has always wanted to do the Royal Family 5K - maybe they will consider tagging along and running it. I think Mark and I are going to sign up for it as well - it will be a good warm up for me for the half the next day and I think Mark secretly wishes he had signed up for the half-marathon, so the 5K will be a good start.
Todays's Stats:
2.32 miles
30:57 minutes
13:20 avg min/mil
If the half-marathon was today: 3:00
Goals for next run
I'm going to try to get up tomorrow morning and run again. If I can keep my stats about the same, try to run a little more than today, I'll be pleased.
I could tell this run would be different. My body was not fully warmed up and ready to go. Took me a while to get into a groove. I couldn't even run the first half-mile, which is something I've been able to do since my third run. It was at that time, I decided just to get my miles in, try to keep my average down and just make it back to the house. I didn't set any personal bests, but mentally, I crushed it. I could have given up at anytime and headed back, but I didn't. I kept going, kept pushing - if I wasn't ready to run, I just walked a little faster. Slowly, but surely, I'm getting there.
I also told my parents about this crazy decision yesterday - not sure what they think based on their reactions. I know my mom has always wanted to do the Royal Family 5K - maybe they will consider tagging along and running it. I think Mark and I are going to sign up for it as well - it will be a good warm up for me for the half the next day and I think Mark secretly wishes he had signed up for the half-marathon, so the 5K will be a good start.
Todays's Stats:
2.32 miles
30:57 minutes
13:20 avg min/mil
If the half-marathon was today: 3:00
Goals for next run
I'm going to try to get up tomorrow morning and run again. If I can keep my stats about the same, try to run a little more than today, I'll be pleased.
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
What have I done????
Welp - I did it. It took me 40 minutes to actually push pay - but I did it. I This morning I registered for the Disney Princess Half-Marathon on Feb. 23. A small health issue had me worried that I wouldn't be able to sign up - and I was pretty upset about it. But yesterday morning, I learned that I had nothing to worry about and was free to keep the dream alive, with the goal of deciding on August 1 if I was going to do it. Slight problem - by last night, registration had jumped to 94%, up 40% in the 2 weeks I've been contemplating this experience. I knew I wasn't going to be able to wait until August 1 - I was going to have to make a decision soon.
I talked to Mark this morning and told him we needed to figure out today if we were going to sign up and do this thing. Around 10 a.m. I got a text message that said "We'll make it work. Enter the race." So I did. It took 30 minutes to fill out the form - mainly because I kept stopping and asking myself what I was doing and if I was sure I could do it. When it came time for me to hit pay - I left my mouse on the button for 10 minutes, trying to convince myself to pay. Once I did, I freaked out. I couldn't believe I did it and immediately started questioning myself. But, it's too late now. I've signed up - and I can't back out now.
I was excited to see on the form that you identify your favorite Disney Princess - after looking at pictures I can only guess that means I'll be sporting a bright yellow bib number during the race since my favorite Princess is Belle. That has me pretty excited.
I've spent a lot of time reading blog entries by people who ran the race last year - trying to get an idea of what to expect and how to prepare. Don't want to hype it up too much for myself - just want to know what to bring, what to wear, where to stay, etc. Reading these blogs is psyching me out a little and scaring me a lot, but I'm going to use it to fuel my runs and help me get ready.
I also signed up for a 5K on July 28 - I'm working to identify at least one competitive race a month to keep me motivated.
Tonight's run was rough. Warmer and more humid that I've ran in so far, I struggled a little bit. I also was hurting quite a bit. I don't think I'm stretching enough - in fact, I know I'm not. So that will be my next internet search - stretches for running, especially on my off days. Otherwise, I did pretty good tonight. Each time I wanted to quit, I made myself run just a little further. I set personal records in a couple categories, so that makes me feel good. The hills, while they are killing me know, are going to be such a blessing as I train - I know it's going to make me a better runner in the long run.
Tonight's Stats:
2.36 miles
31:39 minutes
13:26 avg min/mil
If the half-marathon was today: 3:02
Goals for next run
I'll be out of town the next few days, so I'm hoping to squeeze in some runs. Since the routes will be different, I'd like to try to keep everything about the same as tonight. If I do better - bonus. If it's a little off, I won't let myself get upset.
I talked to Mark this morning and told him we needed to figure out today if we were going to sign up and do this thing. Around 10 a.m. I got a text message that said "We'll make it work. Enter the race." So I did. It took 30 minutes to fill out the form - mainly because I kept stopping and asking myself what I was doing and if I was sure I could do it. When it came time for me to hit pay - I left my mouse on the button for 10 minutes, trying to convince myself to pay. Once I did, I freaked out. I couldn't believe I did it and immediately started questioning myself. But, it's too late now. I've signed up - and I can't back out now.
I was excited to see on the form that you identify your favorite Disney Princess - after looking at pictures I can only guess that means I'll be sporting a bright yellow bib number during the race since my favorite Princess is Belle. That has me pretty excited.
I've spent a lot of time reading blog entries by people who ran the race last year - trying to get an idea of what to expect and how to prepare. Don't want to hype it up too much for myself - just want to know what to bring, what to wear, where to stay, etc. Reading these blogs is psyching me out a little and scaring me a lot, but I'm going to use it to fuel my runs and help me get ready.
I also signed up for a 5K on July 28 - I'm working to identify at least one competitive race a month to keep me motivated.
Tonight's run was rough. Warmer and more humid that I've ran in so far, I struggled a little bit. I also was hurting quite a bit. I don't think I'm stretching enough - in fact, I know I'm not. So that will be my next internet search - stretches for running, especially on my off days. Otherwise, I did pretty good tonight. Each time I wanted to quit, I made myself run just a little further. I set personal records in a couple categories, so that makes me feel good. The hills, while they are killing me know, are going to be such a blessing as I train - I know it's going to make me a better runner in the long run.
Tonight's Stats:
2.36 miles
31:39 minutes
13:26 avg min/mil
If the half-marathon was today: 3:02
Goals for next run
I'll be out of town the next few days, so I'm hoping to squeeze in some runs. Since the routes will be different, I'd like to try to keep everything about the same as tonight. If I do better - bonus. If it's a little off, I won't let myself get upset.
Monday, July 15, 2013
Sunday, July 14, 2013
Day of rest????
My 5 year old son has been begging me to come along on a run, so I gave in tonight. I decided to keep it quick - run the same route I ran last Sunday - my first leg on this journey. I knew it would be close to a mile and hopefully wouldn't kill my son. I definitely don't want him running with me every time I go out, but I figure once in a while is fine - plus, I'd love for him to want to run, stay in shape and enjoy athletic activity.
As I got going, I quickly realized I was going to regret him coming along. Not because I didn't want him to, but because I felt so good. I ran the first 1/2 mile, which I've been able to do for the past 3 runs now. But, I didn't want stop. Logan, however, did was ready to walk. I didn't want to lose him altogether so reluctantly, I walked. This went on for 3-4 more runs. I felt so good, I wanted to keep going. I ran a little further than I've ran each night - and crushed my run/walk ratio from my run last week. Instead of being discouraged that I didn't get to run more or upset that I really couldn't, I chose to smile and celebrate the victories that I discovered along the way. I'm making progress - I'm doing really good for only doing this for a week. And, I WANT to run. I look forward to it. I was thinking about it all day. I'm excited about the transfer in attitude - I am beginning to think I can do this.
After tonight, I've decided I'm going to run this route each Sunday. I'm going to use it as a barometer - to see just how far I've come and just much I've progressed. It will be a confidence booster - oh, hell, who am I kidding. It will be my private ego booster. During my runs in between, I'll continue to increase my distance and length of actual running.
I haven't signed up for the 1/2 marathon yet. Giving myself a couple more days to make up my mind. But, I'm getting closer to doing it. Mark believes I can and is encouraging me to do it. My sister wants me to as well, mainly because she wants to start training with me when she moves here soon and run the race in 2015. I'll make up my mind this week sometime. In the meantime, I'll just continue to grow to love running.
Tonight's stats:
No stats kept tonight. Kept it simple and easy.
Goal for Tuesday is 2.5 miles, running the first .6 miles and working to slightly increase each run interval.
Saturday, July 13, 2013
Small victories
Today was a rough one. Babysat my 2 nieces and my nephew - 5 kids under age 6, running around my house. I was exhausted, mentally drained - got dinner on the table late and figured there was no way I'd get a run in today. I have to be out the door no later than 8:10 p.m. in order to get my run in before it gets too dark and becomes dangerous. That negative little voice had appeared and told me to just climb on the couch, grab some ice cream and relax.
And then it happened, without even thinking I went up to my room, changed clothes, grabbed my running shoes and started stretching. I was out the door at 8:10 p.m. and ran one of my best runs so far. Still walked about as much as I ran, but did really good.
I hurt a lot tonight - a lot. I am beginning to think the shoes may not be right and that makes me sad. I was hoping to get by with the new running shoes I bought, but I don't think they're right for my feet. I also realized tonight just how many inclines my route has in it. There's a lot of uphill climbs - a lot. I could tell when I was going uphill, even slightly, because everything would start hurting again. My hope is to push my way through those hills and use them to my advantage while training - if I can crush those hills, then a fairly flat run will be a piece of cake.
I crossed the 2 mile boundary tonight - I'm so proud of myself for that. It still frightens me to think that I still have 11 miles to go in my final goal, but after 3 runs I'm already at a run/walk of 2 miles. I feel awesome.
Tonight's Progress:
2.28 miles
33:37 minutes
14:42 avg mile/minute
If the half marathon was today: 3:12
I'm going to try to go for a run tomorrow - my son wants to go to, so if we go it will be a short one with a lot more walking than running. I'm looking at it as a light day to keep me loose.
And then it happened, without even thinking I went up to my room, changed clothes, grabbed my running shoes and started stretching. I was out the door at 8:10 p.m. and ran one of my best runs so far. Still walked about as much as I ran, but did really good.
I hurt a lot tonight - a lot. I am beginning to think the shoes may not be right and that makes me sad. I was hoping to get by with the new running shoes I bought, but I don't think they're right for my feet. I also realized tonight just how many inclines my route has in it. There's a lot of uphill climbs - a lot. I could tell when I was going uphill, even slightly, because everything would start hurting again. My hope is to push my way through those hills and use them to my advantage while training - if I can crush those hills, then a fairly flat run will be a piece of cake.
I crossed the 2 mile boundary tonight - I'm so proud of myself for that. It still frightens me to think that I still have 11 miles to go in my final goal, but after 3 runs I'm already at a run/walk of 2 miles. I feel awesome.
Tonight's Progress:
2.28 miles
33:37 minutes
14:42 avg mile/minute
If the half marathon was today: 3:12
I'm going to try to go for a run tomorrow - my son wants to go to, so if we go it will be a short one with a lot more walking than running. I'm looking at it as a light day to keep me loose.
Friday, July 12, 2013
Today's Inspiration
“Struggling and suffering are the essence of a life worth living. If you're not pushing yourself beyond the comfort zone, if you're not demanding more from yourself - expanding and learning as you go - you're choosing a numb existence. You're denying yourself an extraordinary trip.”
― Dean Karnazes, Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner
― Dean Karnazes, Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner
Thursday, July 11, 2013
2nd Run - Not too bad
Some internal drama kept me from running yesterday. I sat and sulked and felt sorry for myself. Mark tried to get me out yesterday when he got home from work, but I found excuses. This morning, more internal drama. Got up early and went straight to the couch to sulk more.
Tonight, however, that changed. Had dinner, relaxed a little and changed into my running clothes. I started to get caught up in Hell's Kitchen when Mark looked at me and told me I needed to get up and out the door. And I did. And it felt so good. I ran basically the same course as Sunday, adding in a few detours to increase the distance. I had hoped for 2.5 miles - made it almost 2 miles. And I'm okay with that. I alternated running and walking, but ran a little further each time to try to increase my stamina. I'm insanely proud of myself tonight and I feel really, really good.
Tonight's results:
1.92 miles
27:52 minutes
Avg min/mile: 14:57
If I ran the half tonight, total time would have been: 3 hours and 17 minutes.
My goal for Saturday: 2.2 miles in under 30 minutes, walking and running but trying to run a little more than tonight.
Tonight, however, that changed. Had dinner, relaxed a little and changed into my running clothes. I started to get caught up in Hell's Kitchen when Mark looked at me and told me I needed to get up and out the door. And I did. And it felt so good. I ran basically the same course as Sunday, adding in a few detours to increase the distance. I had hoped for 2.5 miles - made it almost 2 miles. And I'm okay with that. I alternated running and walking, but ran a little further each time to try to increase my stamina. I'm insanely proud of myself tonight and I feel really, really good.
Tonight's results:
1.92 miles
27:52 minutes
Avg min/mile: 14:57
If I ran the half tonight, total time would have been: 3 hours and 17 minutes.
My goal for Saturday: 2.2 miles in under 30 minutes, walking and running but trying to run a little more than tonight.
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Hit a wall earlier than I wanted
It was bound to happen - I just thought I was strong enough for it to not happen in my first week. A bout of insomnia had me up at 4:30 a.m. - and that was when my morning started. I was exhausted, I was angry, I was a little stressed out. I know I should have gone for my run when the alarm went off at 6 a.m. as I had planned, but I talked myself out of it. I was too tired and the couch was comfy - I wasn't getting up. At 6:15 a.m. the guilt almost won over - I was oh so close to getting up and putting on my running shoes. But I let the negative voice win out again and I stayed on the couch and snuggled a little further under the blanket.
I'm disappointed in myself. How will I reach my goals if I talk myself out of it? But, I cannot let my disappointment take over. I cannot let the negative voice win.
Worse yet, the registration for the Princess Half Marathon increased by 20% in a week - and is dangerously close to selling out. Am I ready to commit - I don't know. Today's stumble sure isn't helping my confidence any. So, I did the next logical thing besides just paying the fee. I sat down and told my husband about my dream. It's not that I wanted to keep it a secret from him - it's not like he would have told me no or discouraged me from doing it. Far from it - he's my biggest cheerleader in everything I do. I just didn't want to disappoint more than just myself if I don't do it - if I chicken out. But, as I thought about it - I need someone to push me, to hold me accountable, to make me get out of bed before the sun comes up so I can get my run in. Plus, he has a major vote in this decision. Can we afford the trip overall, let alone the registration fee? Should I aim lower in my goals and plan for the Princess Half in 2015? Honestly, I do not know yet.
I've made the decision that financially, if the half fills up before I have the chance to sign up, I'm okay with it. When it comes to the money side of things, I can't be rash. However, the Kansas City Half Marathon is in October and I've decided to run that one instead, should the Disney Half fill up in the next few days as I suspect it will.
So, while the training schedule I'm *trying* to follow is set for me to run on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays I am breaking that this week. I'm getting up tomorrow and putting on my new running shoes and heading out when the alarm goes off. Bonus - now I have someone who will push me out of bed if I refuse to get out.
I'm disappointed in myself. How will I reach my goals if I talk myself out of it? But, I cannot let my disappointment take over. I cannot let the negative voice win.
Worse yet, the registration for the Princess Half Marathon increased by 20% in a week - and is dangerously close to selling out. Am I ready to commit - I don't know. Today's stumble sure isn't helping my confidence any. So, I did the next logical thing besides just paying the fee. I sat down and told my husband about my dream. It's not that I wanted to keep it a secret from him - it's not like he would have told me no or discouraged me from doing it. Far from it - he's my biggest cheerleader in everything I do. I just didn't want to disappoint more than just myself if I don't do it - if I chicken out. But, as I thought about it - I need someone to push me, to hold me accountable, to make me get out of bed before the sun comes up so I can get my run in. Plus, he has a major vote in this decision. Can we afford the trip overall, let alone the registration fee? Should I aim lower in my goals and plan for the Princess Half in 2015? Honestly, I do not know yet.
I've made the decision that financially, if the half fills up before I have the chance to sign up, I'm okay with it. When it comes to the money side of things, I can't be rash. However, the Kansas City Half Marathon is in October and I've decided to run that one instead, should the Disney Half fill up in the next few days as I suspect it will.
So, while the training schedule I'm *trying* to follow is set for me to run on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays I am breaking that this week. I'm getting up tomorrow and putting on my new running shoes and heading out when the alarm goes off. Bonus - now I have someone who will push me out of bed if I refuse to get out.
Monday, July 8, 2013
Sunday, July 7, 2013
What the hell am I thinking?
I'm not a runner. I have never liked to run. I did track and field my 8th grade year and used to struggle breathing during a 200m race. I played golf in high school - a sport that allows the use of a motorized vehicle after your competition days are over. One that you can enjoy with a beer in your hand.
What I'm saying is that I'm lazy. Always have been. I'm happiest in front of the TV or a laptop screen, feet up, lounge clothing on and bag of chips in my lap. I've never really been a runner. I've done a couple 5Ks here and there, and always wanted to be a runner, but something in the back of my head has always told me I couldn't do it.
So, with that said, what the hell am I thinking? What caused me to wake up last Wednesday and say - I want to run a half-marathon. What has caused me to become basically obsessed with the idea of running this race? Made me go out and buy a pair of running shoes (on clearance because come on, I'm not crazy). To download an app on my phone that would track my run progress.
This is my goal - to run the Disney Princess Half-Marathon on Feb 23. I haven't told anyone besides my sister of this moment of insanity I'm apparently suffering. I haven't signed up for the race yet. I'm giving myself until August 1 to make the decision and pay the entry fee - leaving me virtually no choice but to run the race. So between now and August 1 I need to become a runner.
I'm a pessimist at heart. I tend to see the bad, the negative, believe that the good won't happen or isn't possible. Every time I think I'm going to accomplish something, that little negative voice in my head tells me I'll never do it - it'll never happen for me. This journey is more than finishing my first half-marathon. It's about pushing myself past that negative voice and realizing that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to. Who knows what that will lead to. I may be 33 years old, but I have a lot of future ahead of me and I need to believe that I can do anything to make it the best future for my children, my husband and myself.
So - my journey began tonight. After finding every excuse in the book to not go out and run since my little epiphany, I went for my first run tonight. I had hoped to do 2 miles tonight, but it became clear very quickly that it wasn't going to go as well as I had imagined. So - I had 2 choices. Listen to the negative voice that was telling me "You've only gone half a mile - look at you. You'd have to do 12.5 more of these - you'll never make it." Or, I could listen to a new voice that said "Why push it past your comfort level right now? You just started - what did you expect? It's a process - it's called training." The new voice surprised me and in the end, won out. The last thing I wanted to do was hate running on my first time out and give myself another excuse to quit. So, I allowed myself to walk more than I ran, without feeling guilty. I chose a route that had beauty versus challenge, and I had fun.
This blog is going to be my wait of being accountable. I don't expect anyone to read it - and if someone does, even better. Also - if you do take time to read my drivel, feel free to leave inspiring quotes, articles, suggestions, tips, etc., in the comments. Again, I'm not a runner - so I'm open to anything and everything people want to share.
My posts won't always be this long - at least I don't expect them to be. Just a way for me to track my journey and put down my thoughts and experiences.
So tonight's results:
1.78 miles
27:09 minutes
Avg min/mile: 15:15
If I ran the half tonight, total time would have been: 3 hours and 27 minutes. (Princess Half has a max time of 3:30 - I already feel like I could run this race after tonight. But, here comes the negative voice, that is before I'm extremely tired and have run several miles. In any case, it's a reassuring time to see.)
My goal for Tuesday: 2 miles in under 30 minutes, walking and running but trying to run a little more than tonight.
-Janae
What I'm saying is that I'm lazy. Always have been. I'm happiest in front of the TV or a laptop screen, feet up, lounge clothing on and bag of chips in my lap. I've never really been a runner. I've done a couple 5Ks here and there, and always wanted to be a runner, but something in the back of my head has always told me I couldn't do it.
So, with that said, what the hell am I thinking? What caused me to wake up last Wednesday and say - I want to run a half-marathon. What has caused me to become basically obsessed with the idea of running this race? Made me go out and buy a pair of running shoes (on clearance because come on, I'm not crazy). To download an app on my phone that would track my run progress.
This is my goal - to run the Disney Princess Half-Marathon on Feb 23. I haven't told anyone besides my sister of this moment of insanity I'm apparently suffering. I haven't signed up for the race yet. I'm giving myself until August 1 to make the decision and pay the entry fee - leaving me virtually no choice but to run the race. So between now and August 1 I need to become a runner.
I'm a pessimist at heart. I tend to see the bad, the negative, believe that the good won't happen or isn't possible. Every time I think I'm going to accomplish something, that little negative voice in my head tells me I'll never do it - it'll never happen for me. This journey is more than finishing my first half-marathon. It's about pushing myself past that negative voice and realizing that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to. Who knows what that will lead to. I may be 33 years old, but I have a lot of future ahead of me and I need to believe that I can do anything to make it the best future for my children, my husband and myself.
So - my journey began tonight. After finding every excuse in the book to not go out and run since my little epiphany, I went for my first run tonight. I had hoped to do 2 miles tonight, but it became clear very quickly that it wasn't going to go as well as I had imagined. So - I had 2 choices. Listen to the negative voice that was telling me "You've only gone half a mile - look at you. You'd have to do 12.5 more of these - you'll never make it." Or, I could listen to a new voice that said "Why push it past your comfort level right now? You just started - what did you expect? It's a process - it's called training." The new voice surprised me and in the end, won out. The last thing I wanted to do was hate running on my first time out and give myself another excuse to quit. So, I allowed myself to walk more than I ran, without feeling guilty. I chose a route that had beauty versus challenge, and I had fun.
This blog is going to be my wait of being accountable. I don't expect anyone to read it - and if someone does, even better. Also - if you do take time to read my drivel, feel free to leave inspiring quotes, articles, suggestions, tips, etc., in the comments. Again, I'm not a runner - so I'm open to anything and everything people want to share.
My posts won't always be this long - at least I don't expect them to be. Just a way for me to track my journey and put down my thoughts and experiences.
So tonight's results:
1.78 miles
27:09 minutes
Avg min/mile: 15:15
If I ran the half tonight, total time would have been: 3 hours and 27 minutes. (Princess Half has a max time of 3:30 - I already feel like I could run this race after tonight. But, here comes the negative voice, that is before I'm extremely tired and have run several miles. In any case, it's a reassuring time to see.)
My goal for Tuesday: 2 miles in under 30 minutes, walking and running but trying to run a little more than tonight.
-Janae
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