Sunday
Feb282010
On your mark, get set, go
Sunday, February 28, 2010 at 03:42PM
I'm so not a runner. I never have been, and if you asked me to run right now, I wouldn't make it two blocks without being winded. In fact, I've always believed I just wasn't made for running, my body wasn't made for it. Some people are built for running, I am not. That's it, done, no running for me.
But in the last couple months I've heard of three people (who also don't consider themselves to be runners) who have started running. Those three people include Nanette, Patti, and one of my new coworkers, and all three are using the Couch to 5K training program.
Something about hearing it three times in a row made me think, "Hmm... maybe I could do that." So I set a goal---my city hosts the annual Riverbank Run, which includes a 25K run, 5K run and 5K walk, and I want to run the 5K. Then I started preparing. I researched and bought a pair of affordable running shoes, I researched and bought a sports bra, and I asked Nanette for advice. She pointed me to these podcasts that are full of different music for each run and also count down each time you have to switch between walking and running. While I was planning to use the Giraffe's iPod for this, he surprised me and one day this showed up:
On Saturday I successfully finished Workout 1 of Week 1. It was not ideal. We just got a big snowstorm at the end of last week, and everything was sloppy and melty on Saturday. My new shoes are already a mess. But I did it, I got through it! Thank god I only had to run for 60 seconds at a time because I wouldn't have made it any longer. I have to be honest, I'm not completely confident I'm going to make it through the whole 9 weeks, but I'll try.
My sister Emily said she'd like to try to do the training and run the 5K with me in May, which I think will help with my motivation. So here we go. Wish me luck.
But in the last couple months I've heard of three people (who also don't consider themselves to be runners) who have started running. Those three people include Nanette, Patti, and one of my new coworkers, and all three are using the Couch to 5K training program.
Something about hearing it three times in a row made me think, "Hmm... maybe I could do that." So I set a goal---my city hosts the annual Riverbank Run, which includes a 25K run, 5K run and 5K walk, and I want to run the 5K. Then I started preparing. I researched and bought a pair of affordable running shoes, I researched and bought a sports bra, and I asked Nanette for advice. She pointed me to these podcasts that are full of different music for each run and also count down each time you have to switch between walking and running. While I was planning to use the Giraffe's iPod for this, he surprised me and one day this showed up:
(Wow, it looks so dusty!)
(He got free engraving and had this put on the back. So cute.)
On Saturday I successfully finished Workout 1 of Week 1. It was not ideal. We just got a big snowstorm at the end of last week, and everything was sloppy and melty on Saturday. My new shoes are already a mess. But I did it, I got through it! Thank god I only had to run for 60 seconds at a time because I wouldn't have made it any longer. I have to be honest, I'm not completely confident I'm going to make it through the whole 9 weeks, but I'll try.
My sister Emily said she'd like to try to do the training and run the 5K with me in May, which I think will help with my motivation. So here we go. Wish me luck.
in Giraffe, My anatomy
Giraffe, My anatomy
Reader Comments (11)
When I saw this on FB, my first thought was, "Wait, Shan hates exercise." But I'm so happy for you to try it. I hated exercise too until I started running. I usually only stick with it for a few months at a time and then start making excuses as to why I'm too busy, but it's truly great. I've wanted to try to couch to 5K so I'm interested to see how it goes for you.
The podcasts & countdown are interesting too. That's a lot of clocking to do while your trying to run. Now...hmmm...maybe I can convince someone to get me an iPod for my quarter birthday or something. :)
Good luck and hope you keep us posted as to how it goes.
I'm so excited about this! I did this too and the tutorial podcasts are amazing. I think almost everyone can run, the trick is good gear.
Good luck! I still hate exercise and running after finishing a 10K, but it does get slightly easier. :)
Good luck with it. I'm personally waiting for the weather to warm up slightly before hitting the running trails but am looking forward to it. I hope it works out for you.
Good luck! I know you can do it! (PS, to dry out sloppy shoes, stuff them with newspaper. It'll absorb the moisture, so no squishy shoes.)
Yay, Shannon! Keep up the great work! Believe me - if I can tackle this program, ANYONE can.
I'm proud of you. I always was envious of runners. I think you've heard my experiences with trying to become a runner. At least you won't have those hindrances. :)
That's awesome! I was a couch to 5k'er as well (a few years ago). Believe me - you will amaze yourself with how quickly your body can get itself to run a 5k.
And then who knows - maybe you'll increase it to a 10k?
The iPod is beautiful! I love that color.
Having someone with you is always a good motivator.
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