W1D3 // Compromise

   

    Week 1 is officially complete but I decided that I would repeat it until I can complete the sessions comfortably. Today was really good because I completed nearly all the 60 second running periods but I was still fighting for breath at the end of each. I figure by next week I will be more comfortable completing the sessions and then I can increase the times I spend running. 

     I noticed that I'm starting to develop a running style, whereas before I had no idea how far to move my feet or how to land on them. I'm also not as concerned about other people in the park, I concentrate on the sky or the path, which helps me. Another thing is that I made the realization that the first time I tried running I was really self-conscious about how I was puffing and wheezing and would suppress myself, which meant I was getting less oxygen than my body needed; now, I switched the way I looked at it, I control my breathing so I can get as much oxygen as possible... Sure, I breathe heavily and I don't sound like the athlete I want to be, but everyone has to start somewhere and I'm sure they (at one point) sounded like me. 

     Last thing I wanted to mention is the inner struggle I'm having these days. Lately, mp3 players caught my attention and my consumerist side is convinced that if I buy a nice mp3 (not the 1 Gb cheap-o that I have) I'll turn into a marathon runner. Of course, that is not true, the only way I can turn into a marathon runner is by training, says my rational side. So I came up with a solution to satisfy my cravings and my better judgement: complete the Couch-to-5K program and then buy myself whatever I want, which would be either a tablet or an mp3. Its the perfect motivation to complete the program and will give me time to save up for whatever I may choose to buy. I'm a firm believer in the reward system and if you are doing this program with me, or some other challenge, definitely consider doing something like that. 

W1D2 // Creepers

     

Before anything else I'd like to apologize for not linking the source of the Couch-To-5K Plan earlier. If you're interested please visit the site and I should also note that I'm using Robert Ullrey's podcasts and they're wonderful. I believe the program is available in various languages and the podcasts are free. Check it out!

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     It seems to be that time of year that its always raining down in Florida. I almost wasn't going to be able to run today but the rain finally eased up enough for me to take care of business and... I made the mistake of wearing a windbreaker (thinking it could protect me from the sprinkle) but I didn't count on the humidity and heat after the rain turning the inside of my windbreaker into a sauna. It was horrible. I didn't last 2 minutes with it on. Immediately I decided it would be best to leave it on one of the park benches, hope no one took it, and simply pick it up on my way back. After that, running was a lot easier. After researching it seems the general rule of thumb is to never overdress because body heat will warm you up about 15 degrees during your workout, according to Luff. 

     I wasn't able to finish the 60 second running intervals completely this time, I don't know if it was because I was still sore from Day 1 or if maybe I need to tweak my diet, but I did what I could and I am definitely a lot happier that I did something. I kept a general positive outlook and concentrated on my arms, footwork, and breathing. I tinkered with different breathing patterns and maybe that affected my running.... I'm not sure. What I forgot to check was my posture, and I noticed I spent more energy on raising my legs a little higher than Day 1, which might have contributed to my tiredness. 

     Overall, I feel I did well. I might have to repeat week one because I want to be at the point where I finish the 60-sec.-running/90-sec.-walking completely; right now I'd say I'm doing 30/120. I definitely think I should incorporate a 30-min. walk during my resting days in order to rejuvenate my muscles and not miss a work-out. Yesterday, my rest day, I didn't do any exercise except a light 5 minute stretch in the morning and the evening. 

     Last note: saw the biggest wild spider I have ever seen in my life!!! Its body was maybe an inch bigger than my thumb with really long legs. So as not to disturb it (or it disturb me), I've decided to head to the other side of the park from now on.  Don't get me wrong, I think spiders are great because they catch mosquitoes and other pesky bugs....but at the end of the day...they're creepers. Another rule people should live by: Avoid Creepers. 

W1D1 // Step By Step

   

(Will be me once I learn how to run.)

My newest challenge is to complete the Couch-to-5K program so that I can condition myself to run.

     Ever since Phys. Ed. class in Elementary School I remember detesting having to run a mile because I was always the last person to finish (if I was lucky I was second-to-last because someone was sick or something). Looking back now I recognize that part of the problem was that I wore men's steel-toed shoes. Another problem was that I led a very sedentary lifestyle and was not accustomed to running for so long. Then there was the fact that I thought I would always be the last person which I believe led to the materialization of it.  
     Well, in an attempt to conquer fears, exercise and just grow as a person I've decided that I would follow this plan and at the end of it participate in a marathon. This might take me some time but I am definitely excited to try this.
     In fact, I am pleased to announce that I completed Week 1: Day 1 (W1D1) and it was great, notwithstanding the torrential rains that came around the second half of the jog. I was indecisive at first, not sure if to go out, so I waited to see what the weather would be like. After about fifteen minutes that I saw the sky remained the same gloomy grey I headed to the park.
     During previous jogging attempts I managed to psych myself out, thoughts of how the other runners in the park would judge me and see my lack of form and I basically was weighed down by negative thoughts. Today I decided to do something different, I recognized that negativity and decided to start the run with a light attitude to help me run. As I stretched I pictured a foal learning how to stand and run and how she has to develop her endurance before she can mature into the fast mare she has the potential to be one day. Also, instead of noticing how bad I was doing, this time I noticed what was going on with me and experimented with little things that would help me and the progress that I was showing; instead of being so focused about what others were thinking about me, I focused inward, at my thoughts, at my breath, at my footing. Occasionally, I would look at the clouds, but I was so mesmerized by the fact that I actually was jogging and how good I felt that I didn't heed the clouds rolling towards me.
     A little more than halfway in, it started to drizzle and I didn't think anything of it, I just kept going. About a minute later it seemed like the heavens were raining down on my head. Water pelted my eyes to the point that I literally couldn't see where I was going. I alternated between sprints and walking on the way back home, and when I finally reached my house the rain stopped.
     Either way, I'm just so thrilled that I had a positive, successful first run and I can barely wait until Friday so I can try again. For Friday though I think I should dedicate more time to warming up, cooling down and stretching. Also, I think I'll eat lighter things (that are not croquettes) to boost my body with some clean energy for the run.