I'm sure most of you thought I gave up on this running thing. Well, kinda. In September I got a terrible cold, that literally took a month to go away. Then I had to travel for work, then Jay and I went on our honey moon. And before I knew it, it was the middle of November.
I have never liked exercise. I take that back, I did like exercise when I was in high school sports. But that was social, not for fitness. Now it is just a chore. Another thing on my to do list that I get to feel guilty for when I don't get it done. So I am trying to find ways to make it more fun. So I'm trying to reward myself on the days I work out. I have a pile of 25 $1 bills that I am moving from one drawer to the other as I work out. So far this week I have earned $3. Today I decided I was gonna go for a run. I can't believe it, but I ran for 25 mins straight. No walking. I was very proud of my out of shape self.
Monday night I worked out in the basement. Again I'm just focusing on keeping myself motivated for 30 mins. I know that physically I can do it, but my brain really trys to talk me out of it. I've got a radio, magazines and cataloges all in the workout room to try and distract me from the boringness of working out in the basement. I did manage to ride the bike for 15 mins and then I switched to the eliptical machine. On Wednesday, I rode the bike for 15 mins. and then lifted weights for about 10 mins and finished on the elipitcal. My strategy has been that when my brain is telling me to quit, to swtich. That way I fight with myself less. I'm sure there is no fitness logic to my strategy other than it beats doing nothing for 30 mins.
I'll try to keep you updated on my earnings!
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Running update
Okay so I'm sure you thought i'd given up on this running deal. Well not entirely. I have had bronchitis for the last 3-4 weeks. So I went from being able to run 30 minutes to getting winded going upstairs to the bedroom! It's not been pretty. I've been coughing so hard at times my stomach muscles hurt! But this week, I'm still coughing, but not as severely, I was going to get back at it. So this last week I was traveling for work. I decided one evening that I should go for a run...unfortunately it was raining. So I decided that I'd give the hotel treadmill a try. So off I went, it was hard. My right calf was really cramping on me...that's what happens when you don't run for a long stretch. I am happy to say I made it 20 minutes. I probably could have suffered through a few more minutes, but to be honest I started to cough. Had I been on regular pavement I could have stopped coughed and kept running. On a treadmill, not so much. I started to cough so hard I really feared I was gonna trip myself and do face plant on the treadmill.
I had planned to try and run the 5k in Omaha this Sunday. Given the bronchitis I was on the fence about running it. Then adding to that I had a rough flight home. I had a bad flight schedule to begin with. I flew from Cincinnati to Chicago to Kansas City to Grand Island...so do you think that was all on time? Not a chance. But the crazy thing was it honestly wasn't weather related. We got on our flight in Chicago and if you've ever flown thru O'hare you know that turn flights around really fast. So we all loaded up, we actually pushed back, the pilot made the announcement that 'Welcome aboard flight xyz to Kansas City.' A lady on the plane goes rushing forward...she's supposed to be going to Pittsburg...so we have to go back to the gate and let her off, and of course she needs her bag back. So back we go. Then we finally get back to the runway and we get in a long line of planes taking off, so we are about 50 mins late getting the airport in KC. Lucky for us it was a small flight so they held the plane for us. Unfortunately, they couldn't hold the plane for our luggage. They told us no big deal it will be on the next flight from KC to GI. Bad part about that is that the next flight didn't land in GI until 4pm on Saturday. So I have to drive back to GI to get my luggage, which is the opposite direction of Omaha and the race. So I decided that I'd have enough to deal with that I'll just have to find another 5k to run.
The other thing that has been on my mind has been these shorter days. I've been running on the gravel road by our house, but I'm not sure that's a good idea with how early it is getting dark. So my wonderful husband made me a running path through the property. I haven't tried it out yet, but he mowed down the grass and cut all the trees back so they wouldn't hit me in the head along my path. I walked it the other day and it is a 9 min walk, so I'm guessing 4 times around would be close to 30 mins of running. I may get brave and try it out today!
I had planned to try and run the 5k in Omaha this Sunday. Given the bronchitis I was on the fence about running it. Then adding to that I had a rough flight home. I had a bad flight schedule to begin with. I flew from Cincinnati to Chicago to Kansas City to Grand Island...so do you think that was all on time? Not a chance. But the crazy thing was it honestly wasn't weather related. We got on our flight in Chicago and if you've ever flown thru O'hare you know that turn flights around really fast. So we all loaded up, we actually pushed back, the pilot made the announcement that 'Welcome aboard flight xyz to Kansas City.' A lady on the plane goes rushing forward...she's supposed to be going to Pittsburg...so we have to go back to the gate and let her off, and of course she needs her bag back. So back we go. Then we finally get back to the runway and we get in a long line of planes taking off, so we are about 50 mins late getting the airport in KC. Lucky for us it was a small flight so they held the plane for us. Unfortunately, they couldn't hold the plane for our luggage. They told us no big deal it will be on the next flight from KC to GI. Bad part about that is that the next flight didn't land in GI until 4pm on Saturday. So I have to drive back to GI to get my luggage, which is the opposite direction of Omaha and the race. So I decided that I'd have enough to deal with that I'll just have to find another 5k to run.
The other thing that has been on my mind has been these shorter days. I've been running on the gravel road by our house, but I'm not sure that's a good idea with how early it is getting dark. So my wonderful husband made me a running path through the property. I haven't tried it out yet, but he mowed down the grass and cut all the trees back so they wouldn't hit me in the head along my path. I walked it the other day and it is a 9 min walk, so I'm guessing 4 times around would be close to 30 mins of running. I may get brave and try it out today!
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Week 8 Day 2
Run 28 mins
Today I decided to just go for it. The goal is to run for 30 mins, so I just went for it. I decided 28 was close enough to 30, so why mess around, just do it. Amazingly, I did it with out any issues. Now as I type this, my legs and arms are shaky, but I did not die running. I started thinking back to when I started this whole thing, 2 months ago, I didn't like the way running for 5 mins. sounded, so getting to 30 has been quite a feat.
My plan now is to stay at 30 and just get to where that isn't such a challenge any more. I really want to be able to run for 30 mins and feel like I could just keep going if I wanted. Right now it's 30 mins and I can't wait to stop. So I've got a ways to go, but I used to feel that way about 20 mins of running, now I can keep cruising at the 20 min mark.
I do have one concern about running, the days are getting shorter and it's dark earlier, so I don't know what I'm gonna do about that. There is a high school about 10 mins. away, I'm thinking I could run there, not sure if there is much for lights, but I may check that out. Otherwise, I might have to get creative with lights :)
Today I decided to just go for it. The goal is to run for 30 mins, so I just went for it. I decided 28 was close enough to 30, so why mess around, just do it. Amazingly, I did it with out any issues. Now as I type this, my legs and arms are shaky, but I did not die running. I started thinking back to when I started this whole thing, 2 months ago, I didn't like the way running for 5 mins. sounded, so getting to 30 has been quite a feat.
My plan now is to stay at 30 and just get to where that isn't such a challenge any more. I really want to be able to run for 30 mins and feel like I could just keep going if I wanted. Right now it's 30 mins and I can't wait to stop. So I've got a ways to go, but I used to feel that way about 20 mins of running, now I can keep cruising at the 20 min mark.
I do have one concern about running, the days are getting shorter and it's dark earlier, so I don't know what I'm gonna do about that. There is a high school about 10 mins. away, I'm thinking I could run there, not sure if there is much for lights, but I may check that out. Otherwise, I might have to get creative with lights :)
Monday, August 31, 2009
Week 8 Day 1
Workout
28 min Run
Week 8, that means I've been running for 2 months. I even repeated a week. 2 months, 60 days. Okay it's not like I run everyday, but I've stuck with it. I ran the whole work out. I was not feeling good when I started. I had a long list of things I wanted to get done tonight. I got home at 5:30, I cooked dinner, made brownies for supper club, did yesterday's dishes and tonight's supper dishes and somewhere in there managed to eat dinner. All by 6:30 and still managed to get my shoes on and get out the door for a run before 7! Talk about time management. I didn't feel real good when I started running. In fact, I was wishing I'd let my dinner settle more before starting, but I did it. It really helped that Jay went with. He's been trying to walk with me and the dogs. He's working on building up his ankle so eventually he can run with me.
I had to laugh at Annie tonight. I was running and I've discovered that I like running the mile in front of our house, but I like to head south when when get to the corner...I just seems to be flatter. So Annie had been going back and forth between running with me, and then she'd turn around and run back to Jay, and then back to me. She gets twice the walk! So I turned the corner and Big Abby was with me. Annie apparently thinks that she's missing out on something so she takes off across the bean field to cut the corner and catch up to us. What she couldn't see from across the field was the fence that she couldn't get through when she got close to us. She kept bouncing off the fence as she tried to figure out what the deal was. So I could see a spot where the fence was down so I got her through there...All I could see as she was running across the field was a blond head bouncing up and down. Both Jay and I just knew she'd been dying to run through one of those fields. She finally got her chance!
28 min Run
Week 8, that means I've been running for 2 months. I even repeated a week. 2 months, 60 days. Okay it's not like I run everyday, but I've stuck with it. I ran the whole work out. I was not feeling good when I started. I had a long list of things I wanted to get done tonight. I got home at 5:30, I cooked dinner, made brownies for supper club, did yesterday's dishes and tonight's supper dishes and somewhere in there managed to eat dinner. All by 6:30 and still managed to get my shoes on and get out the door for a run before 7! Talk about time management. I didn't feel real good when I started running. In fact, I was wishing I'd let my dinner settle more before starting, but I did it. It really helped that Jay went with. He's been trying to walk with me and the dogs. He's working on building up his ankle so eventually he can run with me.
I had to laugh at Annie tonight. I was running and I've discovered that I like running the mile in front of our house, but I like to head south when when get to the corner...I just seems to be flatter. So Annie had been going back and forth between running with me, and then she'd turn around and run back to Jay, and then back to me. She gets twice the walk! So I turned the corner and Big Abby was with me. Annie apparently thinks that she's missing out on something so she takes off across the bean field to cut the corner and catch up to us. What she couldn't see from across the field was the fence that she couldn't get through when she got close to us. She kept bouncing off the fence as she tried to figure out what the deal was. So I could see a spot where the fence was down so I got her through there...All I could see as she was running across the field was a blond head bouncing up and down. Both Jay and I just knew she'd been dying to run through one of those fields. She finally got her chance!
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Week 7 Day 2
Run 25 minutes
Running was so much better tonight. I came to the realization, I don't hate running, I hate the heat. It was really a beautiful night, cool and still. It was almost as good as running in the morning. I was able to easily run the whole time without calling anything stupid, or wanting to quit. I did make the error of waiting until almost 8 to run tonight. I didn't think about the fact that the days are starting to get shorter, and it was starting to get dark when I was finishing my run. In case you've never lived in the country, it is freakin' dark dark out here when the sun goes down. So I'll definitely have to watch the time better, but it was a nice run.
I had to laugh at the dogs, they both went with. We had almost 4 inches of rain 2 days ago, so there are some low spots in the fields where we run, and the dogs took off for the water holes like they had just discovered their own swimming pools! Luckily I was paying attention and got the turned around in time. They would have been 2 stinky dogs if they got into that stagnant water. Not only are the dogs good company for running, but they provide a little entertainment too.
Running was so much better tonight. I came to the realization, I don't hate running, I hate the heat. It was really a beautiful night, cool and still. It was almost as good as running in the morning. I was able to easily run the whole time without calling anything stupid, or wanting to quit. I did make the error of waiting until almost 8 to run tonight. I didn't think about the fact that the days are starting to get shorter, and it was starting to get dark when I was finishing my run. In case you've never lived in the country, it is freakin' dark dark out here when the sun goes down. So I'll definitely have to watch the time better, but it was a nice run.
I had to laugh at the dogs, they both went with. We had almost 4 inches of rain 2 days ago, so there are some low spots in the fields where we run, and the dogs took off for the water holes like they had just discovered their own swimming pools! Luckily I was paying attention and got the turned around in time. They would have been 2 stinky dogs if they got into that stagnant water. Not only are the dogs good company for running, but they provide a little entertainment too.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Week 7 Day 1
Run 25 mins
I absolutely did not want to run. In fact I had the perfect excuse. I wanted to make bread, and I had a friend coming over to the new house. I had to get the house looking nice for her. It was hot today. It had to be over 90. I mean is it fair to make the dogs run in this heat? They have that fur coat to take into consideration. So I was gonna skip for their well being. Only problem with all of these excuses, none of them were truly good enough. I actually started the bread, and then it had to rise for an hour...running is only like 30 mins. So bread was out as an excuse. My friend, Justine, she wasn't coming until 7ish. It was like 5 when I got home from work. So I had 2 hours. The dogs wanted to go so bad. They were pestering me. I even reminded them how hot it was and yet, they still wanted to go. Who am I to take that away from them.
So I ran. I was pretty miserable the whole time. It was hot, windy and my legs now hurt because of the gravel. My calves don't like working that hard. Let's be honest my whole body doesn't like working that hard. I did it. I did not like it one bit, but I ran for stupid 25 stupid minutes. I was fighting it so hard. I was calling myself names for being so stubborn and forcing myself to run when I could easily have just walked...but I finished it. Now, I have a headache, my calves hurt and my left ankle hurts when I go up and down stairs. I don't know if the run did anything to my ankle, I felt a little twinge today when I was walking at work, but now it is actually painful on the stairs. I may put a brace on it the next couple of days. It wasn't pretty, but I did it. I hope the next run is better.
I absolutely did not want to run. In fact I had the perfect excuse. I wanted to make bread, and I had a friend coming over to the new house. I had to get the house looking nice for her. It was hot today. It had to be over 90. I mean is it fair to make the dogs run in this heat? They have that fur coat to take into consideration. So I was gonna skip for their well being. Only problem with all of these excuses, none of them were truly good enough. I actually started the bread, and then it had to rise for an hour...running is only like 30 mins. So bread was out as an excuse. My friend, Justine, she wasn't coming until 7ish. It was like 5 when I got home from work. So I had 2 hours. The dogs wanted to go so bad. They were pestering me. I even reminded them how hot it was and yet, they still wanted to go. Who am I to take that away from them.
So I ran. I was pretty miserable the whole time. It was hot, windy and my legs now hurt because of the gravel. My calves don't like working that hard. Let's be honest my whole body doesn't like working that hard. I did it. I did not like it one bit, but I ran for stupid 25 stupid minutes. I was fighting it so hard. I was calling myself names for being so stubborn and forcing myself to run when I could easily have just walked...but I finished it. Now, I have a headache, my calves hurt and my left ankle hurts when I go up and down stairs. I don't know if the run did anything to my ankle, I felt a little twinge today when I was walking at work, but now it is actually painful on the stairs. I may put a brace on it the next couple of days. It wasn't pretty, but I did it. I hope the next run is better.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Week 6 Day 3
Workout:
25 min Run
I Did it! 25 mins without stopping. I actually didn't mind today's run. I told myself last night before I went to bed that I was going to run first thing in the morning. So I think I was well prepared mentally for this run. I had been scared of this run all week. I think this whole running thing is a mental game for me. It's got very little to do with physical ability at this point, it all about convincing myself that I can keep going. When I first started running it was a mental battle to get outside and do it. I discovered that running first thing in the morning cured that. If I just got up and did it, it was over for the day and I didn't have to think about it. Now that the time has increased it just a battle to keep my feet moving. My breathing has become more natural, I haven't had any joint pain. My calves are starting to ache, but I think that is the switch from pavement to gravel. I'm figuring it's making my legs stronger, so I'll just really fly when I'm on pavement! So now, I've proven to myself that I can run and not die. So is really about desire at this point. So far, it's been just an internal competition...And until I make it to the 30 min mark it will stay that way, what I'm afraid of is getting bored with running once I don't have the program to follow...I need to figure out what I'm gonna do at the end of the 9 week program. Next week is week 7, so I've got a couple of weeks to figure it out.
I did sign up to run the 5K with my mom and Shannon in Omaha. It is the first week in October, so maybe that is what I need to do to stay motivated, just keep signing up for little races every few weeks and that would keep me in training. I wonder if there's a race that I could do where Annie could run with me. I'll have to google it!
25 min Run
I Did it! 25 mins without stopping. I actually didn't mind today's run. I told myself last night before I went to bed that I was going to run first thing in the morning. So I think I was well prepared mentally for this run. I had been scared of this run all week. I think this whole running thing is a mental game for me. It's got very little to do with physical ability at this point, it all about convincing myself that I can keep going. When I first started running it was a mental battle to get outside and do it. I discovered that running first thing in the morning cured that. If I just got up and did it, it was over for the day and I didn't have to think about it. Now that the time has increased it just a battle to keep my feet moving. My breathing has become more natural, I haven't had any joint pain. My calves are starting to ache, but I think that is the switch from pavement to gravel. I'm figuring it's making my legs stronger, so I'll just really fly when I'm on pavement! So now, I've proven to myself that I can run and not die. So is really about desire at this point. So far, it's been just an internal competition...And until I make it to the 30 min mark it will stay that way, what I'm afraid of is getting bored with running once I don't have the program to follow...I need to figure out what I'm gonna do at the end of the 9 week program. Next week is week 7, so I've got a couple of weeks to figure it out.
I did sign up to run the 5K with my mom and Shannon in Omaha. It is the first week in October, so maybe that is what I need to do to stay motivated, just keep signing up for little races every few weeks and that would keep me in training. I wonder if there's a race that I could do where Annie could run with me. I'll have to google it!
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Week 6 Day 2
Day 2 work out
10 min run
3 min walk
10 min run
Wow, 10 mins is a long time. I still think back to when 5 mins was unthinkably hard, but 10 mins isn't too bad the first time. The second 10 min run is still tough. I have to keep giving myself little pep talks the last few mins. I feel like yelling at myself, come on you Wimp, finish it. I almost need my high school swim coach, Coach McCaw to blow his whistle and scream "Come on Kalkowski finish it strong don't quit on me now!" Jay's been going with me the last few nights, maybe this could be his job. Except I really don't want to get him started on the habit of yelling at me...it's just too early in our marriage for that.
Annie is a champ at running. She is definitely hitting her stride. She's running and looking back at me wondering what is taking me so long. She does collapse and just lay by the water dish when we get home, so I do think she is just as tired as me. One of the good things is now the dogs know that after dinner, about 6:00-ish we go for walks. Tonight they even started to pester me because I was playing with my new laptop and not getting my shoes on fast enough. I guess their pestering will be a good reminder to get out and keep up with the exercising. I just wonder if they understand rain days, or really cold winter days?
10 min run
3 min walk
10 min run
Wow, 10 mins is a long time. I still think back to when 5 mins was unthinkably hard, but 10 mins isn't too bad the first time. The second 10 min run is still tough. I have to keep giving myself little pep talks the last few mins. I feel like yelling at myself, come on you Wimp, finish it. I almost need my high school swim coach, Coach McCaw to blow his whistle and scream "Come on Kalkowski finish it strong don't quit on me now!" Jay's been going with me the last few nights, maybe this could be his job. Except I really don't want to get him started on the habit of yelling at me...it's just too early in our marriage for that.
Annie is a champ at running. She is definitely hitting her stride. She's running and looking back at me wondering what is taking me so long. She does collapse and just lay by the water dish when we get home, so I do think she is just as tired as me. One of the good things is now the dogs know that after dinner, about 6:00-ish we go for walks. Tonight they even started to pester me because I was playing with my new laptop and not getting my shoes on fast enough. I guess their pestering will be a good reminder to get out and keep up with the exercising. I just wonder if they understand rain days, or really cold winter days?
Monday, August 17, 2009
Week 6 Day 1...Again!
Okay so last week was a little busy with the move, so I didn't make time to run Day 2 and 3, so I decided I would repeat the week. We are getting settled into the new house if you want to check out a video of the out side of the house check out Jay's blog www.3acrestudio.blogspot.com.
We are living in the country now, so I can walk out the front door and on to the gravel road, and off we go. No more trips to the park or people to restrain the dogs from, just hit the road. So tonight Jay and the dogs all went with. I ran the program, Jay walked. The dogs kept pace with me. I was really glad Jay went with, I'm not the bravest country gal just yet, so I figured if a rabid racoon jumped out into my running path, that possibly Jay would be close enough to hear me scream. Or maybe the dogs would at least bark and scare it away.
The run was hard. I was running on gravel, which a first for me. It didn't seem that much different at first, but I was struggling by the end. I'm not sure if it was the gravel or the tacos I decided to eat prior to running, but I was struggling to finish tonight. I'm making a 30 minute waiting period after eating...no running after eating...very bad. I made it, but it was not looking good there for a few minutes!
First run at the new house, I'm gonna call it a success!
We are living in the country now, so I can walk out the front door and on to the gravel road, and off we go. No more trips to the park or people to restrain the dogs from, just hit the road. So tonight Jay and the dogs all went with. I ran the program, Jay walked. The dogs kept pace with me. I was really glad Jay went with, I'm not the bravest country gal just yet, so I figured if a rabid racoon jumped out into my running path, that possibly Jay would be close enough to hear me scream. Or maybe the dogs would at least bark and scare it away.
The run was hard. I was running on gravel, which a first for me. It didn't seem that much different at first, but I was struggling by the end. I'm not sure if it was the gravel or the tacos I decided to eat prior to running, but I was struggling to finish tonight. I'm making a 30 minute waiting period after eating...no running after eating...very bad. I made it, but it was not looking good there for a few minutes!
First run at the new house, I'm gonna call it a success!
Monday, August 10, 2009
Week 6 Day 1
Run 5 min
Walk 3 min
Run 8 min
Walk 3 min
Run 5 min
When I woke up this morning I actually felt like running. I did get to kinda sleep in until 6-ish, so fact that it wasn't as early as normal may have helped. We closed on our new house today, so we didn't have to leave for Aurora until 8, so I got my run in before that. I was pretty excited for the new house, so it was not difficult to get up.
I took just Annie this morning, since I had slept in, I knew there was a pretty good chance that there would be people and dogs at the park, so I didn't want to risk it with Big Abby. I was pretty amazed that I could run this run. If you do the math there are 4 more minutes in this workout. That 8 minute run was tough, but I did it. On the way back there were lots of people at the park, so Annie had to put her leash on, which by the end of the run she doesn't mind. Good thing I did, about 2 minutes before the finish line a cop on a motorcycle came crusing through the park. It kinda startled me. Then when I made it to our block I noticed that he had a truck pulled over on our block. People totally speed through that area, so I'm not suprised, but it was pretty sneaky how he snuck through the park.
We survived another work out...let's see what Day 2 has to offer!
Walk 3 min
Run 8 min
Walk 3 min
Run 5 min
When I woke up this morning I actually felt like running. I did get to kinda sleep in until 6-ish, so fact that it wasn't as early as normal may have helped. We closed on our new house today, so we didn't have to leave for Aurora until 8, so I got my run in before that. I was pretty excited for the new house, so it was not difficult to get up.
I took just Annie this morning, since I had slept in, I knew there was a pretty good chance that there would be people and dogs at the park, so I didn't want to risk it with Big Abby. I was pretty amazed that I could run this run. If you do the math there are 4 more minutes in this workout. That 8 minute run was tough, but I did it. On the way back there were lots of people at the park, so Annie had to put her leash on, which by the end of the run she doesn't mind. Good thing I did, about 2 minutes before the finish line a cop on a motorcycle came crusing through the park. It kinda startled me. Then when I made it to our block I noticed that he had a truck pulled over on our block. People totally speed through that area, so I'm not suprised, but it was pretty sneaky how he snuck through the park.
We survived another work out...let's see what Day 2 has to offer!
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Week 5 Day 3
Workout:
20 min continuous run
I have been dreading this work out all week. I looked at day one on Monday and saw that I had 20 minutes coming this weekend, well I kinda panicked. I was confident there was no way I could do 20 mins. with no walking. Amazingly, I did it. I know my running route pretty well now, and I went this morning without the dogs, so I knew about how far I was going to run, so I didn't need to look at the time much. I just focused on my breathing and keeping my feet moving. I think I pysched myself out a little because I was worried about how hot it is supposed to be today and the distance that I started running really slow. When I run slow, I take these tiny steps that really don't get me anywhere. So I feel like I'm wasting a ton of energy and not going anywhere. So about the 10 min mark I realized I should be farther than I was, so I tried to focus on taking longer steps. That helped me to stop thinking about how far I had ran, and how much farther I had to go. Once I got to the 15 minute mark, I felt like I had the run licked. I knew if I'd ran for 15 minutes I could do another 5 with out a problem. It's funny, I've noticed that there is a point in most of my runs where I just accept it. It's like my body and brain finally get on the same page and decide, Fine, we'll work together and do this. Just seems like it takes forever to get there. When I finished my 20 mins. I threw my arms up in the air like I'd won a huge race...I'm sure the other people in the park thought I was strange, but I didn't care!
I had debated whether or not to take the dogs. I didn't start out until almost 7am, which by that time there is normally people at the park, so I decided with the daunting task of 20 mins I couldn't risk having an issue with the dogs. I know after the run this was the right choice. When I got to the park I saw the Boxer Dude. Boxer Dude lives down the street from us. He's one of the most dedicated walkers I see. I'm almost positive he walks both of his boxers every day. Jay and I have seen him many times. The problem with Boxer Dude is that his dogs are Big Abby's Arch-nemisises...is that a word? She hates them. We've encountered them on walks in the past and she would drag me through traffic to get to these dogs. For some reason she hates these dogs. We can't even walk by their house with them in the fence without her freaking out. So when I saw Boxer Dude at the park, I was relieved I hadn't taken the dogs. When I got home Jay told me that the dogs knew where I had gone and they were whining for me. I guess it doesn't take long to train them! The good news is that Annie went to the vet last week and she's lost 10 lbs. So we are getting her into shape too!
20 min continuous run
I have been dreading this work out all week. I looked at day one on Monday and saw that I had 20 minutes coming this weekend, well I kinda panicked. I was confident there was no way I could do 20 mins. with no walking. Amazingly, I did it. I know my running route pretty well now, and I went this morning without the dogs, so I knew about how far I was going to run, so I didn't need to look at the time much. I just focused on my breathing and keeping my feet moving. I think I pysched myself out a little because I was worried about how hot it is supposed to be today and the distance that I started running really slow. When I run slow, I take these tiny steps that really don't get me anywhere. So I feel like I'm wasting a ton of energy and not going anywhere. So about the 10 min mark I realized I should be farther than I was, so I tried to focus on taking longer steps. That helped me to stop thinking about how far I had ran, and how much farther I had to go. Once I got to the 15 minute mark, I felt like I had the run licked. I knew if I'd ran for 15 minutes I could do another 5 with out a problem. It's funny, I've noticed that there is a point in most of my runs where I just accept it. It's like my body and brain finally get on the same page and decide, Fine, we'll work together and do this. Just seems like it takes forever to get there. When I finished my 20 mins. I threw my arms up in the air like I'd won a huge race...I'm sure the other people in the park thought I was strange, but I didn't care!
I had debated whether or not to take the dogs. I didn't start out until almost 7am, which by that time there is normally people at the park, so I decided with the daunting task of 20 mins I couldn't risk having an issue with the dogs. I know after the run this was the right choice. When I got to the park I saw the Boxer Dude. Boxer Dude lives down the street from us. He's one of the most dedicated walkers I see. I'm almost positive he walks both of his boxers every day. Jay and I have seen him many times. The problem with Boxer Dude is that his dogs are Big Abby's Arch-nemisises...is that a word? She hates them. We've encountered them on walks in the past and she would drag me through traffic to get to these dogs. For some reason she hates these dogs. We can't even walk by their house with them in the fence without her freaking out. So when I saw Boxer Dude at the park, I was relieved I hadn't taken the dogs. When I got home Jay told me that the dogs knew where I had gone and they were whining for me. I guess it doesn't take long to train them! The good news is that Annie went to the vet last week and she's lost 10 lbs. So we are getting her into shape too!
Friday, August 7, 2009
Eight is Great
Week 5 Day 2
8 min run
5 min walk
8 min run
8 minutes of running...I was intimidated before I even started. I really did not think I could run for 8 straight minues. I can't believe it, but I did it. I looked at the weather for today, and saw the highs were going to be above 90, so I figured I better run this morning instead of putting it off to the evening. So I took the dogs with me. I was really nervous that I was going to encounter people so I tried running with both dogs on a leash for a bit, but that was miserable. Especially in the beginning when they are full of energy. The end of the run they've tired themselves out running around, so the leashes aren't a problem then. So I stopped and let them off. They seemed to love it. I made it through my first 8 mins and didn't feel too bad, but the second 8 mins was tougher. I was really nervous about encountering that lady again. (You know the butt lady) I was hoping that she and her buddy decided to take the day off since it was Friday. Lucky for me there was no one at the park this morning. Surprisingly, I made it through the second 8 minutes, I really didn't start to feel like it was getting hard until the 6 min. mark. Which makes sense since I've been running mostly 5 min runs. The funny thing is that the way I convinced myself to keep running was that I'd made it this far, I can't stop with only 2 minutes left! Tomorrow's run is supposed to be 20 mins continuous running...can you say freaked out already!
BTW, anyone checked out See Shannon Run? I haven't seen any blogs lately...just checking on ya' Shan!
8 min run
5 min walk
8 min run
8 minutes of running...I was intimidated before I even started. I really did not think I could run for 8 straight minues. I can't believe it, but I did it. I looked at the weather for today, and saw the highs were going to be above 90, so I figured I better run this morning instead of putting it off to the evening. So I took the dogs with me. I was really nervous that I was going to encounter people so I tried running with both dogs on a leash for a bit, but that was miserable. Especially in the beginning when they are full of energy. The end of the run they've tired themselves out running around, so the leashes aren't a problem then. So I stopped and let them off. They seemed to love it. I made it through my first 8 mins and didn't feel too bad, but the second 8 mins was tougher. I was really nervous about encountering that lady again. (You know the butt lady) I was hoping that she and her buddy decided to take the day off since it was Friday. Lucky for me there was no one at the park this morning. Surprisingly, I made it through the second 8 minutes, I really didn't start to feel like it was getting hard until the 6 min. mark. Which makes sense since I've been running mostly 5 min runs. The funny thing is that the way I convinced myself to keep running was that I'd made it this far, I can't stop with only 2 minutes left! Tomorrow's run is supposed to be 20 mins continuous running...can you say freaked out already!
BTW, anyone checked out See Shannon Run? I haven't seen any blogs lately...just checking on ya' Shan!
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Week 5 Day 1
Work out
Run 5
Walk 3
Run 5
Walk 3
Run 5
It was hot last night. I decided to sleep in and not run in the morning, so I bit the bullet and ran at about 8pm last night. I didn't get to blog because I've got some kind of virus on my computer. Still haven't figured it out...hope I can get my blog written before it takes over!
I got lucky, even though it was humid, the clouds had moved in so It didn't seem like 90 degrees. I felt pretty strong the first 5 mins. but by the last 5 mins the heat was getting to me. I finished hard, but if I'd have had 1 more min I might not have. I focused a lot on breathing. It really helps keep me from getting too winded. It seems like that is when wasnt to stop is when I can't catch my breath. So long as I keep working on that I feel like I can make it. We'll see how tomorrow goes I think it jumps to 8 mins!
Run 5
Walk 3
Run 5
Walk 3
Run 5
It was hot last night. I decided to sleep in and not run in the morning, so I bit the bullet and ran at about 8pm last night. I didn't get to blog because I've got some kind of virus on my computer. Still haven't figured it out...hope I can get my blog written before it takes over!
I got lucky, even though it was humid, the clouds had moved in so It didn't seem like 90 degrees. I felt pretty strong the first 5 mins. but by the last 5 mins the heat was getting to me. I finished hard, but if I'd have had 1 more min I might not have. I focused a lot on breathing. It really helps keep me from getting too winded. It seems like that is when wasnt to stop is when I can't catch my breath. So long as I keep working on that I feel like I can make it. We'll see how tomorrow goes I think it jumps to 8 mins!
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Week 4 Day 3
Wow! 4 weeks and I haven't quit yet. I'm pretty impressed with myself. Today's work out was the same as the last 2. 5 mins. doesn't seem so bad now. Due to the fiasco of taking the dogs last time, I opted to leave them both home today.
When I started out with the 5 min walk this morning it was so cool I thought about turning around to get my jacket. I can't believe on August 1st I'm thinking I need a coat. Even though it is Saturday I was up before 7 and got out for my run. I really do like the morning run, it does seem to give me morn energy in the morning.
Even without the dogs today, I really didn't mind running. I've been practicing the breathing tip Shannon gave me. I realized today as I was finishing my run, that I actually liked my run today. I got to thinking about it and it is one of the few things I do in a week where I actually think about what I am doing, right when I'm doing it. I realized that most of the time when I'm driving or at work I'm thinking about what I need to be doing next and not really in the task at hand. I think that is the thing I'm going to focus on when it comes to running. Just enjoy 30 mins of time to myself and let that be what it is. 30 mins of me time.
When I started out with the 5 min walk this morning it was so cool I thought about turning around to get my jacket. I can't believe on August 1st I'm thinking I need a coat. Even though it is Saturday I was up before 7 and got out for my run. I really do like the morning run, it does seem to give me morn energy in the morning.
Even without the dogs today, I really didn't mind running. I've been practicing the breathing tip Shannon gave me. I realized today as I was finishing my run, that I actually liked my run today. I got to thinking about it and it is one of the few things I do in a week where I actually think about what I am doing, right when I'm doing it. I realized that most of the time when I'm driving or at work I'm thinking about what I need to be doing next and not really in the task at hand. I think that is the thing I'm going to focus on when it comes to running. Just enjoy 30 mins of time to myself and let that be what it is. 30 mins of me time.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
That Damn Dog
ARGH!! Running today really sucked. Not because of the running, but because of my idiot dog. I'm not talking Annie, I'm talking Big Abby. She's an idiot. Okay I may take partial blame for this one, but she has lost her running privileges until after the move. Here's the workout:
3 min run
90 sec walk
5 min run
2 min walk
3 min run
90 sec walk
5 min run
So things were going well. I was feeling really good running. I was on the last 5 min run and I saw 2 ladies walking towards me in the distance. So I put the leashes on the dogs well in advance. We got close to passing the people and I should have gotten off the path into the grass, but I didn't. Big Abby has a bad habit of thinking everyone wants to meet her. So she lunged across both me and Annie to try to meet these people. as she lunged I yanked back on her causing her to come up and back which caused her paw to come up and scratch the lady. It tore her pants. So here we are in the park, and I stooped to check on the lady and make sure she was okay. She was pulling her pants down to make sure she wasn't bleeding. She had a bruise and a scratch. I offered to buy her new pants and give her my info in case it got any worse. She was very understanding and said no, but I still feel awful. I know I should have just taken the dogs far enough away they couldn't have reached them, but I didn't. The dogs have been so good I didn't think it would be an issue. I just thank god it was just a scratch. So in order to prevent any more situations Bigs is not allowed to run with Annie and I again until after the move. I can't take any chances that she'd do something like this again. Keep in mind, that the 2 dogs together are over 200 pounds, so lets be honest if they wanted to they could drag me if they made their minds up to do it. I've learned my lesson, 2 dogs is too much at the park.
As far as the running it was a lot easier today, granted the last five minute run was interrupted, but I felt good during the rest of the run. It is so much easier to run when it is cool in the morning. I'm comparing it to the run on Sunday with Shannon, that seemed so much harder the sun was out and I don't know how hot it was, but today the air was cool and it felt easier to keep going. This is the first run that my distance seems to be improving. I ran all the way to the bridge. The last few times has been much shorter than that. Of course there is more running than walking this week. I'm feeling good about the running. Not saying I like it yet, just neutral about it.
3 min run
90 sec walk
5 min run
2 min walk
3 min run
90 sec walk
5 min run
So things were going well. I was feeling really good running. I was on the last 5 min run and I saw 2 ladies walking towards me in the distance. So I put the leashes on the dogs well in advance. We got close to passing the people and I should have gotten off the path into the grass, but I didn't. Big Abby has a bad habit of thinking everyone wants to meet her. So she lunged across both me and Annie to try to meet these people. as she lunged I yanked back on her causing her to come up and back which caused her paw to come up and scratch the lady. It tore her pants. So here we are in the park, and I stooped to check on the lady and make sure she was okay. She was pulling her pants down to make sure she wasn't bleeding. She had a bruise and a scratch. I offered to buy her new pants and give her my info in case it got any worse. She was very understanding and said no, but I still feel awful. I know I should have just taken the dogs far enough away they couldn't have reached them, but I didn't. The dogs have been so good I didn't think it would be an issue. I just thank god it was just a scratch. So in order to prevent any more situations Bigs is not allowed to run with Annie and I again until after the move. I can't take any chances that she'd do something like this again. Keep in mind, that the 2 dogs together are over 200 pounds, so lets be honest if they wanted to they could drag me if they made their minds up to do it. I've learned my lesson, 2 dogs is too much at the park.
As far as the running it was a lot easier today, granted the last five minute run was interrupted, but I felt good during the rest of the run. It is so much easier to run when it is cool in the morning. I'm comparing it to the run on Sunday with Shannon, that seemed so much harder the sun was out and I don't know how hot it was, but today the air was cool and it felt easier to keep going. This is the first run that my distance seems to be improving. I ran all the way to the bridge. The last few times has been much shorter than that. Of course there is more running than walking this week. I'm feeling good about the running. Not saying I like it yet, just neutral about it.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Week 4 Day 1
Okay, so I'm sure you noticed there is no Week 3 Day 3 post. I'm betting you are thinking I ran and forgot to post about it. Right? Sorry to disappoint, but I did not run on Week 3 Day 3. I just didn't have time to run on Thursday or Friday and by Saturday I just hadn't done it. Life just got the best of me at the end of the week. I had to go into work on Thursday at 6, so I left the house at 5, which means I got up around 4ish. Then I had to stay late for the shift change that happens at 6...so I got home around 7ish. Lucky for me Jay had dinner ready, but dinner was not the end of our tasks, because we got a call that they wanted to show the house on Friday. That meant that Jay and I spent the rest of the evening cleaning the house. Friday was another early day for me, had to be there by 6:15am...I'd intended to get up around 4-ish...the alarm didn't wake me, so I woke up in a panic at almost 5...Raced to get to work. Friday, Jay picked me up in Aurora and we went to Omaha to see friends and family. We were pretty busy on Saturday, so I didn't manage to run Saturday either.
Okay so Sunday morning, Shannon, my friend in Omaha, who started this whole running deal for me suggested we run together this morning. Shannon is on Week 8, so we decided to run my program on Week 4 since I didn't think I could handle her workout yet. So this week's workout:
Run 3 mins
Walk 90 sec
Run 5 mins
Walk 2 mins
Run 3 mins
Walk 90 sec
Run 5 mins
This was hard. I don't think you realize how long 5 mins of running is. It is an eternity. I think the closest way to realize how long 5 mins is when you are running is to compare it to something we all do. Drink 2 big bottles of water. When you feel like you are about to pee your pants, start the timer and wait 5 mins before you head to the bathroom...trust me it's a long time.
So the good thing was I got to run with Shannon. We met at the High School Track by her house and did our workout together. We were both feeling it today. We 'might' have had a few drinks at Shannon's house last night when we were BBQ'ing. Not the best for an early am run. We were both tired and a little dehydrated, but we made it. I really didn't want to do that last 5 min. run, but I think the only reason I finished was the fact that we'd already done 20 mins of the workout and I couldn't quit so close to the finish line.
Shannon was trying to teach me what she learned about how to focus on breathing while running. You are supposed to breathe in for 2 sec and out for 4. I tried to do this when we started, but I'll be honest I was just trying to keep my feet moving by the end. Maybe it is something I'll work up to. Shannon also had a cool little gizmo that tracked how far we ran. Since we were on a track I kinda had an idea how many laps we were doing, but she said we did 2.18 miles. Which was her personal best! Way to go Shannon!!! I have no clue how far I run when I go, so I have no comparison. I can guesstimate how far around the lake I normally go, but that's about it.
Physically, I'm still hanging in there. My knees on up are doing well. My right heal is a little sore when I'm done running, but my right heal has been sore for about a year now from the standing on concrete floors at work. It's not painful, I can just feel it. My left foot is sore, but that also goes back the BBQ at Shannon's. We were on her deck last night and I stepped on a huge sliver... so my foot is pretty sore, but that's temporary. Running on the track this morning helped my feet since it is made out of that rubbery material. So I'll say this much...4 weeks in, and running hasn't killed me yet!
I promise to make sure Annie goes with this week, should be morning runs, so it should be easy to take the dogs. I still think she's lost some weight...we won't talk about my weight! Annie and Bigs will hit the trail with me Tuesday morning!
Okay so Sunday morning, Shannon, my friend in Omaha, who started this whole running deal for me suggested we run together this morning. Shannon is on Week 8, so we decided to run my program on Week 4 since I didn't think I could handle her workout yet. So this week's workout:
Run 3 mins
Walk 90 sec
Run 5 mins
Walk 2 mins
Run 3 mins
Walk 90 sec
Run 5 mins
This was hard. I don't think you realize how long 5 mins of running is. It is an eternity. I think the closest way to realize how long 5 mins is when you are running is to compare it to something we all do. Drink 2 big bottles of water. When you feel like you are about to pee your pants, start the timer and wait 5 mins before you head to the bathroom...trust me it's a long time.
So the good thing was I got to run with Shannon. We met at the High School Track by her house and did our workout together. We were both feeling it today. We 'might' have had a few drinks at Shannon's house last night when we were BBQ'ing. Not the best for an early am run. We were both tired and a little dehydrated, but we made it. I really didn't want to do that last 5 min. run, but I think the only reason I finished was the fact that we'd already done 20 mins of the workout and I couldn't quit so close to the finish line.
Shannon was trying to teach me what she learned about how to focus on breathing while running. You are supposed to breathe in for 2 sec and out for 4. I tried to do this when we started, but I'll be honest I was just trying to keep my feet moving by the end. Maybe it is something I'll work up to. Shannon also had a cool little gizmo that tracked how far we ran. Since we were on a track I kinda had an idea how many laps we were doing, but she said we did 2.18 miles. Which was her personal best! Way to go Shannon!!! I have no clue how far I run when I go, so I have no comparison. I can guesstimate how far around the lake I normally go, but that's about it.
Physically, I'm still hanging in there. My knees on up are doing well. My right heal is a little sore when I'm done running, but my right heal has been sore for about a year now from the standing on concrete floors at work. It's not painful, I can just feel it. My left foot is sore, but that also goes back the BBQ at Shannon's. We were on her deck last night and I stepped on a huge sliver... so my foot is pretty sore, but that's temporary. Running on the track this morning helped my feet since it is made out of that rubbery material. So I'll say this much...4 weeks in, and running hasn't killed me yet!
I promise to make sure Annie goes with this week, should be morning runs, so it should be easy to take the dogs. I still think she's lost some weight...we won't talk about my weight! Annie and Bigs will hit the trail with me Tuesday morning!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Week 3 Day 2
Same workout as Day 1.
I did not want to get up this morning. So much so, that I reset my alarm from 5 to 6 and said forget it, I'll run tonight. Then I started to think about it and all the disadvantages of running tonight...heat, managing the dogs, the fact that I have a 4 hour meeting today. Then I started to think about the dogs. If Annie and Big's had a vote, they'd vote to go now. So I reset my alarm for 5:15 and got up.
Jay was already up, normally I beat him up when I'm going running. He'd been up for awhile, so he was all full of chatter. I just scowled and told him to shut up. Then he let the dogs in before I had my shoes tied. I should take a video of what it looks like when the dogs have figured out they are going for a walk. It is pure hilarity, if they aren't your idiot dogs. Bigs was so excited she knocked an empty glass off the table. She got popped on the nose by dad, and she was so funny she kept pawing at her nose...it hurt her feelings more than any thing.
So we went running. No lightening, no rain, so I just had to do it. I was glad I went as soon as I got to the park. It's really nice when you have the park to yourself. This really the only time of day that happens. I was on the second 3 minute run when I started to get sick of running. Then I just happened to look over at Annie. I don't know if you've ever watched a dog run, but they don't run like we do. I just plod along and just want to get it over with. Dogs run with all of their heart. Annie was running so fast her ears were back and I swear she had a smile on her face. So that little distraction made me wish I could like running as much as Annie.
I did not want to get up this morning. So much so, that I reset my alarm from 5 to 6 and said forget it, I'll run tonight. Then I started to think about it and all the disadvantages of running tonight...heat, managing the dogs, the fact that I have a 4 hour meeting today. Then I started to think about the dogs. If Annie and Big's had a vote, they'd vote to go now. So I reset my alarm for 5:15 and got up.
Jay was already up, normally I beat him up when I'm going running. He'd been up for awhile, so he was all full of chatter. I just scowled and told him to shut up. Then he let the dogs in before I had my shoes tied. I should take a video of what it looks like when the dogs have figured out they are going for a walk. It is pure hilarity, if they aren't your idiot dogs. Bigs was so excited she knocked an empty glass off the table. She got popped on the nose by dad, and she was so funny she kept pawing at her nose...it hurt her feelings more than any thing.
So we went running. No lightening, no rain, so I just had to do it. I was glad I went as soon as I got to the park. It's really nice when you have the park to yourself. This really the only time of day that happens. I was on the second 3 minute run when I started to get sick of running. Then I just happened to look over at Annie. I don't know if you've ever watched a dog run, but they don't run like we do. I just plod along and just want to get it over with. Dogs run with all of their heart. Annie was running so fast her ears were back and I swear she had a smile on her face. So that little distraction made me wish I could like running as much as Annie.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Week 3 Day 1
Workout
90s Run
90s Walk
3 min Run
3 min Walk
Repeat series 2x
I can't believe I can run for 3 mins. Twice! I do have a confession to make. I went running without Annie. I decided to run at 5pm. It was hot for me, and I knew she'd be too hot if we ran together, so I went without her. I made it home and bent down to take my shoes off and she came right up to me and gave me kisses. I think she was thanking me for not making her go with. Either that or she was licking my sweat.
I took off running headed south at the park. I had intended to run north toward the campus, but I noticed that the wind was out of the south and decided it was better to run into the wind in the beginning and with it to my back on the the way home. BTW, Did you know that when the wind is out of the south it usually kicks up a storm? That is one of the many factiods Jay shares with me. Surprisingly he's right, there are usually storms...crazy. That was one of the things I thought about as I was running for 3 mins. It really wasn't that bad. I've figured out that 60s of running is about 3 and a half light poles. This really helps me keep from obsessing about the time. So I don't spend as much time looking at my watch. I did notice that my legs were a bit sore, but really not bad. I didn't feel like I couldn't make it, so I'll take that as a sign of progress.
I'm planning to run in the morning on Tuesday, so Annie will get back into the swing of things...I promise not to cheat on her again!
90s Run
90s Walk
3 min Run
3 min Walk
Repeat series 2x
I can't believe I can run for 3 mins. Twice! I do have a confession to make. I went running without Annie. I decided to run at 5pm. It was hot for me, and I knew she'd be too hot if we ran together, so I went without her. I made it home and bent down to take my shoes off and she came right up to me and gave me kisses. I think she was thanking me for not making her go with. Either that or she was licking my sweat.
I took off running headed south at the park. I had intended to run north toward the campus, but I noticed that the wind was out of the south and decided it was better to run into the wind in the beginning and with it to my back on the the way home. BTW, Did you know that when the wind is out of the south it usually kicks up a storm? That is one of the many factiods Jay shares with me. Surprisingly he's right, there are usually storms...crazy. That was one of the things I thought about as I was running for 3 mins. It really wasn't that bad. I've figured out that 60s of running is about 3 and a half light poles. This really helps me keep from obsessing about the time. So I don't spend as much time looking at my watch. I did notice that my legs were a bit sore, but really not bad. I didn't feel like I couldn't make it, so I'll take that as a sign of progress.
I'm planning to run in the morning on Tuesday, so Annie will get back into the swing of things...I promise not to cheat on her again!
Friday, July 17, 2009
Week 2 Day 3
I don't wanna run today.
I woke up and absolutely did not want to get out of bed and running was out of the question. But I did it anyway. As soon as I went out the door I was surprised. It was cold out. I had a thought for a second that I'd need a jacket. So we started running. And then I saw lightening. But of course I made the rule last week that I had to get sprinkled on to get to turn back. Not a drop of rain, but tons of lightening. So I ran anyway.
If I'm honest right now, the running part is easy. I physically can do it. It my brain that is the problem. I just don't want to do it. So the whole time I'm running I'm think about how I don't want to be doing this. That makes for a long run. They say it takes 14 times before something becomes habit. I'm just about half way there. Maybe after 14 times I'll stop hating it.
I will say Annie and Bigs have really enjoyed the running. They are so excited to go they almost knock me over as I try to get out the door with them. At least someone is enjoying the running!
I woke up and absolutely did not want to get out of bed and running was out of the question. But I did it anyway. As soon as I went out the door I was surprised. It was cold out. I had a thought for a second that I'd need a jacket. So we started running. And then I saw lightening. But of course I made the rule last week that I had to get sprinkled on to get to turn back. Not a drop of rain, but tons of lightening. So I ran anyway.
If I'm honest right now, the running part is easy. I physically can do it. It my brain that is the problem. I just don't want to do it. So the whole time I'm running I'm think about how I don't want to be doing this. That makes for a long run. They say it takes 14 times before something becomes habit. I'm just about half way there. Maybe after 14 times I'll stop hating it.
I will say Annie and Bigs have really enjoyed the running. They are so excited to go they almost knock me over as I try to get out the door with them. At least someone is enjoying the running!
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Week 2 Day 2
Well, it was another morning run! I didn't have to be to work quite as early, so I decided to take advantage of the cool weather and get my run over with.
I discovered that I read Sunday's workout wrong...It should have been run 90 and walk 2 mins. I wasn't super motivated today so less running was okay by me.
It really went well, I'm starting to question the quality of my shoes. I've got a newer pair I'm gonna try next time and see if they are better. My arch was hurting a bit after my last run, so I'm gonna try the new shoes for the next run.
I'm starting to understand why people get up in the morning and run. It definitely cooler, and there is really only 1 excuse to not run in the morning. Sleep. If I try to run at night I have a million excuses I can come up with to not run during the evening...so I may be a morning runner. Did I mention it is cooler. And then the best part is that it is over for the whole day! I don't have to think about/dread running all day. Lots of advantages to morning running!
I discovered that I read Sunday's workout wrong...It should have been run 90 and walk 2 mins. I wasn't super motivated today so less running was okay by me.
It really went well, I'm starting to question the quality of my shoes. I've got a newer pair I'm gonna try next time and see if they are better. My arch was hurting a bit after my last run, so I'm gonna try the new shoes for the next run.
I'm starting to understand why people get up in the morning and run. It definitely cooler, and there is really only 1 excuse to not run in the morning. Sleep. If I try to run at night I have a million excuses I can come up with to not run during the evening...so I may be a morning runner. Did I mention it is cooler. And then the best part is that it is over for the whole day! I don't have to think about/dread running all day. Lots of advantages to morning running!
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Week 2 Day 1
Today's workout:
90 sec run 60 sec walk for 20 mins
Sunday morning...5 am. Yup you read that right. Sunday is a day of rest...not today. Today Jay has an art fair that goes from 9am-5pm. We have to set up at 7am, so my running time was going to be limited. I've done enough of these art fairs to know there is no way I would run after one, so I bit the bullet and did it this morning.
When I took off me and the dogs, (yes plural I took big Abby again...its Sunday you know no one else is up) and it was lightening...not real close off in the distance. I started to think about quiting, I was headed to the park to run around the lake. I still remember my days as a lifeguard, we'd make everyone get out and away from the pool if we saw lightening...so I was leery of running right next to the lake. So as I was starting to consider turning around a thought occur ed to me. What are the odds of getting hit by lightening? They've got to be up there with winning the powerball...okay, not a good enough reason to turn around. But I did make a deal that if I felt sprinkles I could turn around. So off we went.
The park was un-eventful. The change from 60 sec to 90 sec of running really didn't seem too bad. I have become less obsessed with the time. I now have an estimate of how far I have to run to meet the time, so I'm not looking every 10 sec. anymore. I've found running with the dogs does help keep my mind off of the running because I'm looking at them make sure they're not getting to far behind or ahead. They do provide a good distraction...I think I'll tell Shannon that she and Scott need a dog to help with her running...Scott will love that!
90 sec run 60 sec walk for 20 mins
Sunday morning...5 am. Yup you read that right. Sunday is a day of rest...not today. Today Jay has an art fair that goes from 9am-5pm. We have to set up at 7am, so my running time was going to be limited. I've done enough of these art fairs to know there is no way I would run after one, so I bit the bullet and did it this morning.
When I took off me and the dogs, (yes plural I took big Abby again...its Sunday you know no one else is up) and it was lightening...not real close off in the distance. I started to think about quiting, I was headed to the park to run around the lake. I still remember my days as a lifeguard, we'd make everyone get out and away from the pool if we saw lightening...so I was leery of running right next to the lake. So as I was starting to consider turning around a thought occur ed to me. What are the odds of getting hit by lightening? They've got to be up there with winning the powerball...okay, not a good enough reason to turn around. But I did make a deal that if I felt sprinkles I could turn around. So off we went.
The park was un-eventful. The change from 60 sec to 90 sec of running really didn't seem too bad. I have become less obsessed with the time. I now have an estimate of how far I have to run to meet the time, so I'm not looking every 10 sec. anymore. I've found running with the dogs does help keep my mind off of the running because I'm looking at them make sure they're not getting to far behind or ahead. They do provide a good distraction...I think I'll tell Shannon that she and Scott need a dog to help with her running...Scott will love that!
Friday, July 10, 2009
Week1 Day 3
I made it! First week I did the whole work out! I'm pretty proud of the fact I made it out of the house 3 days and attempted to run.
I had been running in the evenings the last few days, but last night was really hot and humid, so the thought of running last night was just not gonna happen, and to be honest, I was beat. I'd had another long day at work and just really didn't have the motivation, so instead of running I went to bed at 8:30...I know that is really lame, but I told myself that I was getting up early to run, so I crashed. At 5 when my alarm went off I grudgingly got up.
So here's where the dog part comes in. It's 5 am, which is the time we'd normally take both dogs to the park for their walk. We go early because Big Abby does not play well with other dogs, so typically there is no one there that early and we can let the dog run off leash and they love it. So I was feeling guilty about going early and not taking Big Abby with Annie and I, so in a moment of weakness I decided to take them both.
So like I said normally there are no people there, so it's great. I'm running along, both dogs are having a good time. I must have been really focused because I didn't even hear this lady behind me that came up and passsed me. I stopped and held the dogs and then when she was far enough ahead of me I let the dogs go again...it's not easy to run with 2 leashes and big dogs on the end of them, so I let them off again.
So today I was running the loop around the lake, and I got all the way around and realized that that I still had 4 mins to go, so I just started the loop over...this totally confused the dogs, but they kept up. I was just about to turn around and start heading towards home...I'll be damned if the lady runner had caught up to me again and lapped me! I again did not have the dogs on a leash so I had to spring in to action and grab them...she was really nice about it, but I always try to keep them on a leash around people, so I was feeling like a bad parent...But I seriously thing she need a bell for her super sonic running speed. I mean I know I'm mostly walking and all, but she lapped me...this kinda made me mad...what kinda show off is she...Okay maybe I'm overreacting, but seriously.
So the dogs and I leave the park and start walking home...I swear every other house had their sprinklers on so I was dodging those the whole way home...the dogs were fine with it, but I didn't want to get hit so we wove in and out of all the water...then as I'm one block from home, with the dogs on their leashes and there is a cop at the corner and he's looking at me...I'm totally thinking I'm about to get busted for my moves in the park with no leashes...I mean seriously is there really nothing else this cop needs to be doing...you know drugs, robbery, speeders...I mean please just leave me and my dogs alone. Okay so I got to where he was and he let me pass, so I'm guessing my little leash infraction must have not been reported. So we made it home with out incident. I'm really thinking Big Abby will be staying home from now on. It was a bit more than I bargained for!
I had been running in the evenings the last few days, but last night was really hot and humid, so the thought of running last night was just not gonna happen, and to be honest, I was beat. I'd had another long day at work and just really didn't have the motivation, so instead of running I went to bed at 8:30...I know that is really lame, but I told myself that I was getting up early to run, so I crashed. At 5 when my alarm went off I grudgingly got up.
So here's where the dog part comes in. It's 5 am, which is the time we'd normally take both dogs to the park for their walk. We go early because Big Abby does not play well with other dogs, so typically there is no one there that early and we can let the dog run off leash and they love it. So I was feeling guilty about going early and not taking Big Abby with Annie and I, so in a moment of weakness I decided to take them both.
So like I said normally there are no people there, so it's great. I'm running along, both dogs are having a good time. I must have been really focused because I didn't even hear this lady behind me that came up and passsed me. I stopped and held the dogs and then when she was far enough ahead of me I let the dogs go again...it's not easy to run with 2 leashes and big dogs on the end of them, so I let them off again.
So today I was running the loop around the lake, and I got all the way around and realized that that I still had 4 mins to go, so I just started the loop over...this totally confused the dogs, but they kept up. I was just about to turn around and start heading towards home...I'll be damned if the lady runner had caught up to me again and lapped me! I again did not have the dogs on a leash so I had to spring in to action and grab them...she was really nice about it, but I always try to keep them on a leash around people, so I was feeling like a bad parent...But I seriously thing she need a bell for her super sonic running speed. I mean I know I'm mostly walking and all, but she lapped me...this kinda made me mad...what kinda show off is she...Okay maybe I'm overreacting, but seriously.
So the dogs and I leave the park and start walking home...I swear every other house had their sprinklers on so I was dodging those the whole way home...the dogs were fine with it, but I didn't want to get hit so we wove in and out of all the water...then as I'm one block from home, with the dogs on their leashes and there is a cop at the corner and he's looking at me...I'm totally thinking I'm about to get busted for my moves in the park with no leashes...I mean seriously is there really nothing else this cop needs to be doing...you know drugs, robbery, speeders...I mean please just leave me and my dogs alone. Okay so I got to where he was and he let me pass, so I'm guessing my little leash infraction must have not been reported. So we made it home with out incident. I'm really thinking Big Abby will be staying home from now on. It was a bit more than I bargained for!
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Week 1 Day 2
Okay first, let me tell you about my day. Right now I live an hour away from where I work. So I have to leave pretty early for work on a normal day. This morning I thought that I had a training session that started at 6am, that I had to set up for. So I woke up this morning at 4am to get to work on time. I get there, I'm setting up the tables and I'll be damned if, Brad, my counterpart at work asked me why I was setting up for the training...I looked at him like he was dumb and said because the training starts at 6. Well, I was right, it starts at 6...tomorrow morning...so I got up early for nothing! And to make it worse I volunteered to cover the night shift meeting for a co-worker who need me to help...guess what time that's at? 6pm...so 14 hours later I'm at home.
On the way home Jay tells me that the realtor wants to show the house tomorrow at 1pm. So that means we need to make the house look like no one lives there...Which is no easy feat when you have 2 large dogs and my lazy tendencies! The bright spot was that Jay had dinner ready when I got home. He made this awesome chicken on the grill. I loved it and wanted to know how he made it..he says it's his secret, so I guess he'll just have to keep making it for me!
Oh yeah, running...so I had every reason in the world to not go running. I mean did you not hear the day I had?...I am happy to report that I went running anyway! The hardest part was not the actual running...it was getting out of the door. It was the same workout as Day 1, so I don't think it wasn't harder...It was definitely hotter, but I can make the time with out a problem. But I know for a fact that if you all weren't going to be checking on me I would have let my long day talk me out of running...so Annie and I Thank you for keep us honest!
On the way home Jay tells me that the realtor wants to show the house tomorrow at 1pm. So that means we need to make the house look like no one lives there...Which is no easy feat when you have 2 large dogs and my lazy tendencies! The bright spot was that Jay had dinner ready when I got home. He made this awesome chicken on the grill. I loved it and wanted to know how he made it..he says it's his secret, so I guess he'll just have to keep making it for me!
Oh yeah, running...so I had every reason in the world to not go running. I mean did you not hear the day I had?...I am happy to report that I went running anyway! The hardest part was not the actual running...it was getting out of the door. It was the same workout as Day 1, so I don't think it wasn't harder...It was definitely hotter, but I can make the time with out a problem. But I know for a fact that if you all weren't going to be checking on me I would have let my long day talk me out of running...so Annie and I Thank you for keep us honest!
Sunday, July 5, 2009
The Race is On
Okay, so first we should make introductions of the main characters. I'm Linda, I'm a 30 something who hates running. Annie, is my 2 year old yellow lab mix.
Last week we took Annie to vet, and she told us she had gained 20 pounds! Long story short, Annie has a thyroid problem and medicine will clear it right up. The bad news is that she's got 20 lbs to lose now that she's on the medicine.
Back to Linda now, I've got a perfectly healthy thyroid, but could also stand to lose 20 lbs. So Annie and I are going to race each other. I figure it's a fair competition, she spends aboug 20 hours a day sleeping, and will only run when I do. I probably spend 20 hours a day either sitting at my job, in my car or sleeping...so we are even at that.
So where does the inspiration to start of all things, running come from? Well 2 places, my friends Shannon and Kim. Shannon is also a non-runner, but has found a program she is trying called from Couch to 5K. She's blogging her progress and I figure if she can do it I can too. My friend Kim has asked me to do a marathon with her in Green Bay in May. I figured I better start with a 5K and work up to the whole marathon thing. 26 miles seems ridiculous. I get in my car to go shorter distances than that!
So I am starting this blog to keep me honest about my running. It seems concieted to think that you all care about my running progress, but if I feel like you all are watching me, I might just actually stick with this!
The Running Preparations:
So first thing I had to do was get a watch with a timer on it. So I headed to Target to pick one out. I couldn't decide which one...so I decided I'd just stroll through the clothes section, and good thing I did! I realized right then and there, that I had no clothes to run in. So lucky for me they had running shirts and shorts on sale. So I picked out 3 shirts and 1 pair of shorts. I figured that I was going to run 3 times a week I'd need that many shirts, and I had restraint and only got one pair of shorts, because I had 2 pairs that would work at home.
Oh yeah, back to the watch...so I went back to the stop watches, well I had a hard time deciding how much to spend on a watch...$50 for a fancy one or $12 for one that seemed to have what I needed...$50 would imply that I was more committed, but $12 seemed to have the functionality...I decided on the $12 watch...I hope you won't hold the commitment thing against me...Annie and I are going to do this!
Week 1 Day 1
Okay so this week we start off easy,
5 min walk for a warm up
60 seconds of running
90 seconds of walking
for 20 mins.
So Annie and I took off. We (my husband Jay and I) regularly walk our dogs, but normally we go as a group. See we have 3 dogs. Big Abby, a Newfoundland, Annie our lab mix and Little Abby a Shih Tzu. I'll explain the dog's names another time. This time as we leave I have to sneak Annie out, so Jay took Big Abby to the back yard as Annie and I sneak out the front door. I feel quite triumphant just in getting off the couch and getting out the door.
We have a great hike bike trail just a few blocks away so we head over to it. I am actually walking pretty quickly...trying to really get a good warm up. So Annie and I start our first 60 second interval. She is not really sure what the hurry is. She's really never ran on a leash before, so she is not really keeping the pace with me. So I start to cheer her on and she starts to pick up the pace. We are both feeling good. One thing I have discovered is that I have no concept of time when it comes to exercise...so I keep checking my watch a lot. I find it funny that I am so concerned about running even 1 second longer than the plan suggests. Like it would kill me to run for 61 seconds. But I am a rule follower, so I constantly check my watch. I hope I get used to this time thing.
So this trail we run/walk on has an underpass that goes under the railroad tracks. I'm not a big fan of it, because it is really noisy and it just kinda freaks me out when a train is on it. So as we are approaching the underpass I can see a train, but I can't turn around so Annie and I keep going. Apparently Annie doesn't like the underpass either...she bolts on me, so my comfortable pace got turned into a sprint as Annie pulled me through the underpass at her sprinting speed.
Luckily on the way back Annie and I did not encounter a train so I got to keep the pace. But the best news is that we finished the 20 mins. In fact we added a extra 5 min walk for a cool down. So day 1 week1 is a success!
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