Its discouraging when you run farther and harder than you ever have in your life, you cut calroies down to 1200 and your careful not to go to far over, you do some yoga sessions as well as light weights, and generally you feel like you've made progress. Then you step on the scale and it tells you your 114.0 pounds, which means I've gained back 1.6 pounds. So weight wise its been a bad week. I'll admit I had some recces peanut butter cups but they all fit into my 1200 calorie budget. Next week I'll cut those out.
Anyway, on to W8D3. It was a fantastic run! I had done some yoga beforehand that I found on itunes and the boyfriend joined in. Its hard and will help me build strength so I will continue doing it. Then we went for a run on the treadmill. I completed 2.55 miles in 30:35 which is the farthest I have ever run! I ran at a 5 speed on the treadmill the entire time and a 6 speed for the last minute. its always exciting stepping up your pace and succeeding! As for pain I experienced soreness in that place between your foot and shin, maybe a tendon pain? I don't know but I think it is from flexing my foot to much. Other then that no more pain, no dizziness or throwing up, and my breathing was easy and not labored.After the run I experienced the normal small amount of muscle pain that is easy to get over.
Now, I'm on spring break! But this dosen't mean that I get a break from running. Traditionally I break over my holidays and fall of the running wagon completely. The boyfriend and I have decided that we will try running outside. If I decide that outside running is ultimately what I want to do then I'll get the garmin forerunner 210 for my birthday in 3 weeks. It will be the perfect inspiration to continue running! And hopefully running outside isn't as boring as running on the treadmill!!!
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
W8D2
Today my boyfriend had to pull me up to go running. It gets hard to stay motivated and he knows that if I dont run I'll pester and badger him about how guilty I feel, better to just kick me to get me running. So after looking at pictures of people on google who participated in the Disney princess 1/2 marathon (my goal for January) I was pumped up enough to allow him to give me the kick I needed to get started, yes motivation for me comes in two parts sometimes. But I'm so glad that he pushed and I decided to run because I completed W8D2, and had a little help doing so!
Today I ran in my new PINK Zensah calf sleeves. They are amazing! I didn't get any shin splints for the first time since probably week 5. I kept them on to walk around campus and also didn't get any of the usual front shin pain. It'll take more runs to see if these beauties work but so far the verdict is YES! Without the shin pain the run went a lot smoother. I didn't feel the need to vomit this time, thank God, and overall it felt as though I pushed for the second half but not as hard as I pushed on W8D1.
For today's run I kept the speed at 4.7, afraid to get nauseous again, and told myself that I could look at the clock after 7 songs. After those songs were completed I had 4 more minutes left. Those 4 minutes wizzed by and I told myself that I could run for another half of a song and that would bring me to 30 minutes, so I ran! Today I completed 2.35 miles in 30 minutes! I wish I had reached the 2.5 mile mark, my boyfriend, running at 5.0, reached 2.55 miles, but there is always next time. I've decided that the W8D1 nausea was a fluke and that I am physically capable of handeling the 5.0 speed for 30 minutes. So thats my goal for W8D3.
But running isn't all of the exercise that I've been doing! My boyfriend is helping me lift weights in our room. We use a dung bell (I think) and I lift the bar and the clips that hold the weights on, for a total of 5 pounds. I don't want huge muscles just some upper body tone. Along with running, and lifting weight, I am also watching my calorie intake! I;v decided to not count my calories lost in my calorie tracking however because I dont not yet have a heart rate monitor. Today I consumed 1222 calories (22 over my 1200 goal). So hopefully if I keep tracking and running I will get to my ideal running weight of 105 pounds soon.
Today I ran in my new PINK Zensah calf sleeves. They are amazing! I didn't get any shin splints for the first time since probably week 5. I kept them on to walk around campus and also didn't get any of the usual front shin pain. It'll take more runs to see if these beauties work but so far the verdict is YES! Without the shin pain the run went a lot smoother. I didn't feel the need to vomit this time, thank God, and overall it felt as though I pushed for the second half but not as hard as I pushed on W8D1.
For today's run I kept the speed at 4.7, afraid to get nauseous again, and told myself that I could look at the clock after 7 songs. After those songs were completed I had 4 more minutes left. Those 4 minutes wizzed by and I told myself that I could run for another half of a song and that would bring me to 30 minutes, so I ran! Today I completed 2.35 miles in 30 minutes! I wish I had reached the 2.5 mile mark, my boyfriend, running at 5.0, reached 2.55 miles, but there is always next time. I've decided that the W8D1 nausea was a fluke and that I am physically capable of handeling the 5.0 speed for 30 minutes. So thats my goal for W8D3.
But running isn't all of the exercise that I've been doing! My boyfriend is helping me lift weights in our room. We use a dung bell (I think) and I lift the bar and the clips that hold the weights on, for a total of 5 pounds. I don't want huge muscles just some upper body tone. Along with running, and lifting weight, I am also watching my calorie intake! I;v decided to not count my calories lost in my calorie tracking however because I dont not yet have a heart rate monitor. Today I consumed 1222 calories (22 over my 1200 goal). So hopefully if I keep tracking and running I will get to my ideal running weight of 105 pounds soon.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Motivation
Everyone who keeps up with the C25K has to have some motivation to persist so I'll say a little bit about some recent motivation that I received that helped me begin week 8. At the begning of my third sttempt at C25K three weeks ago I weighed about 116.8 pounds, this was the closest I had ever been to 117 pounds and it was in the morning before I ate so there was a possibility that I was 117 pounds by the end of the day. I contemplated another crash diet where I'd starve myself and then inevitably give in and gain back all of the weight plus more. After all that kind of behavior is what made me 116 pounds in the first place. But instead I started the C25K again at W5D1. Yesterday before my run, I weighed 112.4 pounds. The lowest weight I have been this year (yes I know the year just started) and probably lower than my lowest last year (not including when I'd starve or purge).
This revelation made me feel incredible and I had to keep up with the running. The weight loss came as a suprise to me. I wasen't even planning on weighing myself! Two weeks ago I had dropped to 114 pounds but during my period last week I was 115 pounds so I thought maybe the weight loss was a fluke. I weighed myself thinking I would be 116 pounds again and this would motivate me to run, so I was pleasantly surprised!
Even more surprising however, was the fact that I didn't have to diet and I was gulping down water like someone who'd been stuck in a desert. Also, I felt hungrier last week then I ever have in my life! I would constantly get hunger pangs and was eating at least three meals a day most days, even breakfast which I don't usually like to eat. In short, I ate A LOT and drank tons, assuming that water weight was inevitable, and still lost weight. Screw the 1200 calories that these online calculators say I need to be eating to be 105 pounds (which is apparently my ideal running weight), I can eat and be healthy, happy, and skinny! This is a new concept to me!
Some people may wonder why this weight loss is a suprise to me and its because I have never lost weight through anything but dieting. Even the first 4 weeks of the C25K did not help me loose weight. This weight loss makes me realize that I'm doing a good job. Sure running is hard and at times I hate it but I'm finally getting results and feeling healthy and active, not to mention my self confidence is shooting up!
This revelation made me feel incredible and I had to keep up with the running. The weight loss came as a suprise to me. I wasen't even planning on weighing myself! Two weeks ago I had dropped to 114 pounds but during my period last week I was 115 pounds so I thought maybe the weight loss was a fluke. I weighed myself thinking I would be 116 pounds again and this would motivate me to run, so I was pleasantly surprised!
Even more surprising however, was the fact that I didn't have to diet and I was gulping down water like someone who'd been stuck in a desert. Also, I felt hungrier last week then I ever have in my life! I would constantly get hunger pangs and was eating at least three meals a day most days, even breakfast which I don't usually like to eat. In short, I ate A LOT and drank tons, assuming that water weight was inevitable, and still lost weight. Screw the 1200 calories that these online calculators say I need to be eating to be 105 pounds (which is apparently my ideal running weight), I can eat and be healthy, happy, and skinny! This is a new concept to me!
Some people may wonder why this weight loss is a suprise to me and its because I have never lost weight through anything but dieting. Even the first 4 weeks of the C25K did not help me loose weight. This weight loss makes me realize that I'm doing a good job. Sure running is hard and at times I hate it but I'm finally getting results and feeling healthy and active, not to mention my self confidence is shooting up!
Sunday, March 13, 2011
W8D1
Well I did it! Fought through a painful eye (more on that later), nausea, and slightly swore legs. The run started out well but I just couldn't stop focusing on the pain after 15 minutes! I was planning on doing 30 minutes but I felt like I was going to throw up for half of the run so at the 28 minute mark I was finished! But I was pleasantly surprised that I didn't get any shin splints and the muscle pain was minimum. Which is great but I'm still looking forward to trying out my new PINK Zensah calf sleeves which will hopefully get rid of my shin splints forever! They arrive tommorow and I'm hoping to have them before my run on Tuesday, it all depends on how quick my dorm sorts the mail.
Now on to the eye! I wanted to re-oxidize my seashell Pandora charm so I got a hard boiled egg at the dining hall on Thursday but forgot to bring it home with me on Friday. So I decided to reheat the egg today in the microwave to start the process. As it turns out you cant heat an egg for 45 seconds when the shell isn't peeled off. I learned this the hard way when I opened the microwave, stared putting my head close to the opening, and the egg exploded. Egg went EVERYWHERE, and the microwave was splattered with egg. Unfortunately, hot pieces of egg or shell (who knows) flew up and hit me in my eye. So my eye has been burning and red all day. I had thought that the eye lid was all that got hit by the egg but after my run, about 3 hours later, my eye became very painful and I started rubbing it. When I pulled my hand away I found a big piece of egg had been in my eye! Twice more I found egg, thankfully smaller pieces, in my eye. I'm scared they'll get trapped in the back part of my head or something and rot...On the bright side, because I'm trying to be a more optimistic person, I learned a lesson today: I hate eggs.
Now on to the eye! I wanted to re-oxidize my seashell Pandora charm so I got a hard boiled egg at the dining hall on Thursday but forgot to bring it home with me on Friday. So I decided to reheat the egg today in the microwave to start the process. As it turns out you cant heat an egg for 45 seconds when the shell isn't peeled off. I learned this the hard way when I opened the microwave, stared putting my head close to the opening, and the egg exploded. Egg went EVERYWHERE, and the microwave was splattered with egg. Unfortunately, hot pieces of egg or shell (who knows) flew up and hit me in my eye. So my eye has been burning and red all day. I had thought that the eye lid was all that got hit by the egg but after my run, about 3 hours later, my eye became very painful and I started rubbing it. When I pulled my hand away I found a big piece of egg had been in my eye! Twice more I found egg, thankfully smaller pieces, in my eye. I'm scared they'll get trapped in the back part of my head or something and rot...On the bright side, because I'm trying to be a more optimistic person, I learned a lesson today: I hate eggs.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Great day
I already posted about my run but later on I got thinking that ever since running I've been a happier person! People always say that exercising makes you a happier person but I never bought into that idea. These realization came after having read an article in my school newspaper that stated that my university is one of the "most obese and stressed" universities in America. I wasn't surprised by this at all. The academics are very hard and people do stress out a lot. And just walking around school you see many overweight and obese people. But it is sad to me named the most stressed and obese. The good thing about the title however is that my school set aside $50,000 to redo the gym, and I have to say I love the new treadmills!
So yes I am excited to continue running, I can't wait until I start seeing body changes but my attitude had changed tremendously. I'm excited!
So yes I am excited to continue running, I can't wait until I start seeing body changes but my attitude had changed tremendously. I'm excited!
W7D2 and W7D3
Thank goodness I was able to finish the 25 minute run on W7D2. It was a pretty normal and exhausting run, speed was 4.7, I finished 2 miles, developed a shin splint in each leg, and my legs went numb entirely after 15 minutes. After my last run that I couldn't complete I was just happy to finish W7D2, even if it was just barely.
Because of my last two runs I was convinced that I would have to do another day or two of the 25 minute runs as oppose to going onto week 8. But I surprised myself with the W7D3 run! Before I go into details let me just say that this was the single BEST run of my life!!!! I may have actually experienced a runners high!!! The first 15 minutes were hard, I wanted to quit because I had 2 shin splints and I was hungry. But then I discovered a small gray mark on the wall across the gym from where I was. As a side note my school gym is tiny but it is nice that they have a "cardio balcony" that overlooks the courts so you can watch the wrestlers and basket ball players and keep distracted while working out.
So back to the mark. I started staring at that mark and then a song came on my ipod that had a wonderful beat to it. I focused on a quieter instrument in that song that I had never notice before, stared at my dot, let my face and body go slack, and just ran. Then I raised the speed to 5.0mph and ran some more. Before I knew it I had 45 seconds left in my run so I finished strong. For the first time since I began the 25 minute runs I felt comfortable for the last portion and felt like I could continue to run. I completed half the run at 4.7mph and the other half at 5.0mph so I worked harder than ever! And offcourse the runners high that you get when the run is complete is fantastic!
Now the the injuries. I took an Ibuprofen about 1 1/2 hours before my run to see if that would help with the shin splints and to be honest I didn't notice a difference. Now I have my left leg iced down because on the way out of the gym I felt a small pain in my shin, higher up from where I get the pains usually, and it feels like a shin splint. I have never had a shin splint continue after running so I'm being careful and icing it. Hopefully that pain will subside with some massage and a days rest because I'm going to try for another runners high on Thursday!
Because of my last two runs I was convinced that I would have to do another day or two of the 25 minute runs as oppose to going onto week 8. But I surprised myself with the W7D3 run! Before I go into details let me just say that this was the single BEST run of my life!!!! I may have actually experienced a runners high!!! The first 15 minutes were hard, I wanted to quit because I had 2 shin splints and I was hungry. But then I discovered a small gray mark on the wall across the gym from where I was. As a side note my school gym is tiny but it is nice that they have a "cardio balcony" that overlooks the courts so you can watch the wrestlers and basket ball players and keep distracted while working out.
So back to the mark. I started staring at that mark and then a song came on my ipod that had a wonderful beat to it. I focused on a quieter instrument in that song that I had never notice before, stared at my dot, let my face and body go slack, and just ran. Then I raised the speed to 5.0mph and ran some more. Before I knew it I had 45 seconds left in my run so I finished strong. For the first time since I began the 25 minute runs I felt comfortable for the last portion and felt like I could continue to run. I completed half the run at 4.7mph and the other half at 5.0mph so I worked harder than ever! And offcourse the runners high that you get when the run is complete is fantastic!
Now the the injuries. I took an Ibuprofen about 1 1/2 hours before my run to see if that would help with the shin splints and to be honest I didn't notice a difference. Now I have my left leg iced down because on the way out of the gym I felt a small pain in my shin, higher up from where I get the pains usually, and it feels like a shin splint. I have never had a shin splint continue after running so I'm being careful and icing it. Hopefully that pain will subside with some massage and a days rest because I'm going to try for another runners high on Thursday!
Thursday, March 3, 2011
First day of failure W7D1
Today was one of the worst runs of my life. I had to complete a 25 minute run, which I had already completed in W6D3 but for some reason I chocked. I jumped on one of the older treadmills at my school gym, figure out how to get it to work after 5 minutes of messing with it, and took off at my normal speed. Five minutes later my calves were so tight that I motioned to my boyfriend that I'd have to stop, but I kept trying. Ten minutes in however, after developing a foot cramp and shin splint, I decided to walk to see if the tightness would alleviate itself. Unfortunately, the treadmill wouldn't lower it's speed and I was forced to stand on the side rails. Just standing made my calves tighten in pain. From then on I had to run and then stop when the tightness got worse.
I guess I had to repeat a day eventually but I feel pretty down. I've been beating myself up over it all day. I feel like I failed and in retrospect I think I should have just pushed through it. But in reality it was probably a combination of things that lead me to fail this run today. I ate breakfast at around 8:30 and didn't eat again until I finished my run at almost 3:00. I wanted to grab some bread on my way out but I get awful cramps if I eat before running. I guess Thursdays are going to be difficult days to run with my school schedule. Then add on the fact that I'm mentally exhausted by Thursdays and that the treadmill appeared to not be as inclined as the new ones and the belt seemed to run slower and catch every time I stepped down, and I was doomed from the start to have a bad run. I'll try again on Sunday after 2 days of rest, stretches, and maybe a massage from the loving boyfriend and hopefully I'll be able to complete this run...Everyone has a bad day every once in a while, right?
I guess I had to repeat a day eventually but I feel pretty down. I've been beating myself up over it all day. I feel like I failed and in retrospect I think I should have just pushed through it. But in reality it was probably a combination of things that lead me to fail this run today. I ate breakfast at around 8:30 and didn't eat again until I finished my run at almost 3:00. I wanted to grab some bread on my way out but I get awful cramps if I eat before running. I guess Thursdays are going to be difficult days to run with my school schedule. Then add on the fact that I'm mentally exhausted by Thursdays and that the treadmill appeared to not be as inclined as the new ones and the belt seemed to run slower and catch every time I stepped down, and I was doomed from the start to have a bad run. I'll try again on Sunday after 2 days of rest, stretches, and maybe a massage from the loving boyfriend and hopefully I'll be able to complete this run...Everyone has a bad day every once in a while, right?
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
W6D3
After experiencing the worst shin splint of my life during W6D2 on Sunday I looked on two of my favorite running forums for advice and off course asked my boyfriend to comment on my form. The wonderful runners on the forum suggested compression sleeves, running with my upper body more forward, and shin exercises to build up the underdeveloped muscle there. My boyfriend suggested I relax my right foot more during my run. Well, I took three of the suggestions, exercises, relaxing the foot during my run, and leaning forward, and I had a fantastic run! I ran the entire 25 minutes and only experienced muscle tightness, small shin splints that disappeared soon after appearing, and then after 15 minutes my legs and feet went numb entirely.
If the shin splints had reappeared today I was thinking of buying this new product called the Zensah compression sleeve. It is this super tight sleeve that you can wear during and after a run. It helps to support your calf and reduce post-run swelling which lowers recovery time and pain. They come in many different beautiful colors and if I had a job at the moment then I would buy them immediately. However, I'm a poor college student and the sleeves cost around 30$ so I'll wait to see if I need them now or if I can hold off.
After the run I experienced such an amazing feeling of happiness and I think I annoyed my boyfriend! And even now a few hours afterward I feel amazing! Never in my life have I run for 20 minutes (4.7 speed) let alone 2 miles consecutively like I did today! And I know it's going to sound weird but I'm sweating!!! I never sweat! It can be 100 degrees outside and ill pass out but I wont sweat. I think that's probably what I'm most excited about. I am so excited that I'm even giving thought to the Disney 1/2 marathon this January. It is a bit expensive though, at 135$ but it could be a Christmas present from my parents and a reward to myself for doing this! I'm starting to feel like a runner and it feels amazing.
Today's C25K ipod app quote:
If the shin splints had reappeared today I was thinking of buying this new product called the Zensah compression sleeve. It is this super tight sleeve that you can wear during and after a run. It helps to support your calf and reduce post-run swelling which lowers recovery time and pain. They come in many different beautiful colors and if I had a job at the moment then I would buy them immediately. However, I'm a poor college student and the sleeves cost around 30$ so I'll wait to see if I need them now or if I can hold off.
After the run I experienced such an amazing feeling of happiness and I think I annoyed my boyfriend! And even now a few hours afterward I feel amazing! Never in my life have I run for 20 minutes (4.7 speed) let alone 2 miles consecutively like I did today! And I know it's going to sound weird but I'm sweating!!! I never sweat! It can be 100 degrees outside and ill pass out but I wont sweat. I think that's probably what I'm most excited about. I am so excited that I'm even giving thought to the Disney 1/2 marathon this January. It is a bit expensive though, at 135$ but it could be a Christmas present from my parents and a reward to myself for doing this! I'm starting to feel like a runner and it feels amazing.
Today's C25K ipod app quote:
Sunday, February 27, 2011
W6D2
Today I had a fabulous run except one major problem...shin splints! Five minutes into my run I started feeling a pulling and by the end of my first 10 minute run session I had the worst shin splint I have experienced while doing the C25K. It was so bad that the 3 minute walking bit was not long enough to walk this shin splint out. Usually as soon as I stop running the pain is alleviated. By the second 10 minute run I was ready to quit but kept pushing on because I didn't want to have to repeat a day.
After the run and cool down I headed back to my dorm room, with a disgusting burger that I ate half of, and thought about why I am just now experiencing these shin splints. One possibility is that my mother's shoes this weekend ruined my feet because before I wore them I hadn't had shin splints since I first started running. The second possibility is that I really do need to just strengthen the muscle there. So I looked up some exercises that will hopefully help. I will do these exercises 3 times a day and I'm hoping that magically the shin splints wont appear during the 25 minute run that I have scheduled for Tuesday.
On a separate note, I have found something that is calming but distracting enough during my runs, audio books! I selected one from iTunes this morning entitled "my secret life" and I listened to the first 20-something minutes of it during my run. It sure beats listening to angry loud music, which ruins the relaxing factor of exercising, and it is interesting enough that I do not always have to focus on pain or breathing. Also, because I love reading but don't have time for it during the school year, I look forward to having a book read to me!
So overall, today's run was amazing! My breathing keeps getting easier and I am not experiencing muscle pain anymore after my runs. If I could get rid of the shin splint in my right leg, without my normal solution of hobbling, then I'm sure I could raise my speed and complete a 5K this week! One last thing, on my C25K ipod app there is a motivational quote for each day. I'm going to put them here after I achieve each of the runs to help with motivation. Today's quote:
"Running is like mouthwash. If you can feel the burn, it's working."-Brian Tackett
After the run and cool down I headed back to my dorm room, with a disgusting burger that I ate half of, and thought about why I am just now experiencing these shin splints. One possibility is that my mother's shoes this weekend ruined my feet because before I wore them I hadn't had shin splints since I first started running. The second possibility is that I really do need to just strengthen the muscle there. So I looked up some exercises that will hopefully help. I will do these exercises 3 times a day and I'm hoping that magically the shin splints wont appear during the 25 minute run that I have scheduled for Tuesday.
On a separate note, I have found something that is calming but distracting enough during my runs, audio books! I selected one from iTunes this morning entitled "my secret life" and I listened to the first 20-something minutes of it during my run. It sure beats listening to angry loud music, which ruins the relaxing factor of exercising, and it is interesting enough that I do not always have to focus on pain or breathing. Also, because I love reading but don't have time for it during the school year, I look forward to having a book read to me!
So overall, today's run was amazing! My breathing keeps getting easier and I am not experiencing muscle pain anymore after my runs. If I could get rid of the shin splint in my right leg, without my normal solution of hobbling, then I'm sure I could raise my speed and complete a 5K this week! One last thing, on my C25K ipod app there is a motivational quote for each day. I'm going to put them here after I achieve each of the runs to help with motivation. Today's quote:
"Running is like mouthwash. If you can feel the burn, it's working."-Brian Tackett
Saturday, February 26, 2011
This morning was refreshing. I woke up feeling happy, hungry, and excited to start running again. Usually I don't eat breakfast, its a bad habit of mine that I'm working on correcting, but this morning I was awoken by my stomach growling and two stiff calves. I have to watch random quick leg pulling while I'm in bed, especially since I've started running, because I've become prone to calf cramps. So with the combined noise of my stomach and the tight uncomfortable warnings from my calves I ventured downstairs for some grub. I wanted a big cup of orange juice (orange juice is my weakness, I drink it by the gallons) but instead I decided on some cereal, a fruit cup, and a bottle of water. I think I need more potassium to help with the calf cramps and eyebrow twitching that I've been getting so hopefully this fruit cup has some potassium.
Yesterday I was willing to give up the C25K; today after reading on of my favorite blogs (fat man running-whose authors sadly stopped posting), and after going on the cool running's beginners forum I am excited to continue tomorrow. Which reminds me, I have no muscle pain from yesterday. I get stiffness when I walk up the stairs but there's absolutely no muscle pain! So I'm going to enjoy my breakfast now and continue to imagine myself running in a cute pink and gray outfit on vacation this summer!
Yesterday I was willing to give up the C25K; today after reading on of my favorite blogs (fat man running-whose authors sadly stopped posting), and after going on the cool running's beginners forum I am excited to continue tomorrow. Which reminds me, I have no muscle pain from yesterday. I get stiffness when I walk up the stairs but there's absolutely no muscle pain! So I'm going to enjoy my breakfast now and continue to imagine myself running in a cute pink and gray outfit on vacation this summer!
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I had a pretty uneventful day...except the TWO pounds I lost this week!!! Last weekend I restarted the C25K at week 5 because I was 116.8 pounds, today, exactly 6 days later, I am 114.4 pounds and off course I have set a new running record with how long I can run! So it's been an awesome week. When I did the C25K before I never passed week 4 and I didn't loose any weight and I was dieting then, so I didn't expect to loose any now with all the water I had been drinking I was afraid I'd gain water weight! So you can imagine my surprise when I didn't diet, just drank more water and ran and I've lost 2 pounds. I am very excited! This is the perfect inspiration to continue with the program; I'm not hugely religious but maybe this is God's way of telling me to keep up the good work.
Friday, February 25, 2011
W6D1
W6D1: 5 minute warm up walk, 5 minute run, 3 minute walk, 8 minute run, 3 minute walk, 5 minute run, 5 minute cool down walk, for a total of 29 minutes.
Today was just horrible. I can't believe that i saved my run until this afternoon, at the end of a long week/day. I was exhausted after keeping up with school all week and all I wanted to do was cuddle up with a slice of my favorite red velvet cheesecake and fall asleep. But I promised myself that I would run so that's what I did, the whole time wishing I had run on Thursday when I was more enthusiastic and less tired. Unfortunately, I forgot my sports bra and running socks and shoes in my dorm room when I went home this afternoon. Consequently, I was forced to run in paper thin socks with no heel cushion, a thick padded bra, and worst of all worn-out cheap sneakers.
From the instant I started running(5.0 MPH speed) I knew I had made a mistake with these shoes. Only 2 minutes into my run I had developed shin splints in BOTH shins and major calf tightening. I will say it took more will power to power through this workout than it did to get through W5D3 when I was more comfortable and in a better mood. Today's run has showed me how important enthusiasm is for me to have a successful running day. I did complete W6D1, it was painful, but at least I was able to power through it. Now however, I am nervous for the 25 minute run...maybe as long as I don't have to do it on my treadmill at home, in those god awful sneakers, I'll do as well as I did on the 20 minute run. To be honest today made me want to quit the C25K but I wont because I know another good running day is coming. At least I get Saturday off!
I've decided that I beat myself up to much. I want to achieve the C25K so badly that when it isn't easy I get mad at my performance. I need to remember that the things in life that are worth having take hard work. Also, I need to stop thinking about and worrying about my next run. I need to have more fun with this and just advance at my own pace. I'll be where I want to be soon enough. But, if i keep getting angry with myself I'll drop the program all together like I've done twice before. From tonight on I am going to focus on not hyping up my runs and beating myself up over my performance. I need to dwell on positive aspects of my run, like my ability to finally breath, and forget about what could have been done better.
Motivational quote of the day:
"If you don't dare to begin, you don't stand a chance of getting there."-Author Unknown
Today was just horrible. I can't believe that i saved my run until this afternoon, at the end of a long week/day. I was exhausted after keeping up with school all week and all I wanted to do was cuddle up with a slice of my favorite red velvet cheesecake and fall asleep. But I promised myself that I would run so that's what I did, the whole time wishing I had run on Thursday when I was more enthusiastic and less tired. Unfortunately, I forgot my sports bra and running socks and shoes in my dorm room when I went home this afternoon. Consequently, I was forced to run in paper thin socks with no heel cushion, a thick padded bra, and worst of all worn-out cheap sneakers.
From the instant I started running(5.0 MPH speed) I knew I had made a mistake with these shoes. Only 2 minutes into my run I had developed shin splints in BOTH shins and major calf tightening. I will say it took more will power to power through this workout than it did to get through W5D3 when I was more comfortable and in a better mood. Today's run has showed me how important enthusiasm is for me to have a successful running day. I did complete W6D1, it was painful, but at least I was able to power through it. Now however, I am nervous for the 25 minute run...maybe as long as I don't have to do it on my treadmill at home, in those god awful sneakers, I'll do as well as I did on the 20 minute run. To be honest today made me want to quit the C25K but I wont because I know another good running day is coming. At least I get Saturday off!
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I've decided that I beat myself up to much. I want to achieve the C25K so badly that when it isn't easy I get mad at my performance. I need to remember that the things in life that are worth having take hard work. Also, I need to stop thinking about and worrying about my next run. I need to have more fun with this and just advance at my own pace. I'll be where I want to be soon enough. But, if i keep getting angry with myself I'll drop the program all together like I've done twice before. From tonight on I am going to focus on not hyping up my runs and beating myself up over my performance. I need to dwell on positive aspects of my run, like my ability to finally breath, and forget about what could have been done better.
Motivational quote of the day:
"If you don't dare to begin, you don't stand a chance of getting there."-Author Unknown
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Nothing today
I've been feeling extremely anxious and kind of upset today. I don't know if its because of my test or because of running. Turns out that reading a ton of running forums and seeing how far others are (marathons and half marathons) is rather depressing when you have just finished the first 20 minute run of your life. These people should inspire me but all they do is intimidate me and make me feel anxious that I can't do what they do. Pair that with the fact that I wasen't able to run today and that's possibly why I feel like crap. With the exam, my schedule, and my boyfriend's schedule it was impossible to go to the gym today. I know its sad but I still dont have enough confidence to go without him so we decided to do our next run tommorow after school. I'v gotten over the hurdle that is W5D3 I can quit now, but I'm scared that just like the other two times I will. So for today I'm going to keep looking at other people's success and pushing myself mentally to finish.
On another note, I have been giving thought as to what I'll do after I graduate the C25K and have decided to run the 30 minute runs until right after my birthday then I will start the Bridge to 10K, which is a 6 week program that will prepare me for an hour of continuous running. I wish that my boyfriend wanted to continue on to this goal with me but it turns out he isn't interested in running at all. He has decided to do a half hour run with me and then do some weight training for the other half our which works to. As long as we are both healthy and active then I'm satisfied.
One thing I have learned about running is that it takes proper eating and hydration. Before I restarted this run I wouldn't drink very much. I suffered from frequent migraines that required Codine or Oxycontin for relief. Now I am drinking 2-3 bottles of water a day which may not seem like enough, but its plenty for me. I haven't been watching my eating yet though. That's hard to do with my boyfriend because he LOVES his unhealthy food, and I wont lie I do to. After I complete my C25K goal I will ween myself on to better food(not easy in college) because I realize it will ultimately help my performance.
I'll post back tomorrow and I will have finished W6D1.
I am a runner...not because I live and breathe to run every waking moment, but simply...because I run.
On another note, I have been giving thought as to what I'll do after I graduate the C25K and have decided to run the 30 minute runs until right after my birthday then I will start the Bridge to 10K, which is a 6 week program that will prepare me for an hour of continuous running. I wish that my boyfriend wanted to continue on to this goal with me but it turns out he isn't interested in running at all. He has decided to do a half hour run with me and then do some weight training for the other half our which works to. As long as we are both healthy and active then I'm satisfied.
One thing I have learned about running is that it takes proper eating and hydration. Before I restarted this run I wouldn't drink very much. I suffered from frequent migraines that required Codine or Oxycontin for relief. Now I am drinking 2-3 bottles of water a day which may not seem like enough, but its plenty for me. I haven't been watching my eating yet though. That's hard to do with my boyfriend because he LOVES his unhealthy food, and I wont lie I do to. After I complete my C25K goal I will ween myself on to better food(not easy in college) because I realize it will ultimately help my performance.
I'll post back tomorrow and I will have finished W6D1.
I am a runner...not because I live and breathe to run every waking moment, but simply...because I run.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
W5D3 Success!!!!
I woke up this morning to 3 inches of fresh beautiful snow! It was perfect because school was delayed until 12:00 and therefore my Cell Biology exam was pushed back until Thursday. My boyfriend and I were able to sleep in today, which for college students, is the greatest gift you can get. I was even able to eat a great breakfast of fruit and lemon bread and drink a bottle of water to prepare for my run. With all of this good luck I should have guessed my 20 minute run would go well.
So long story short I completed my 20 minute run and I am so impressed with how far I have come!!!! This time last year, before I started the C25K for the first time (this is my third attempt), I couldn't run 1/6 of a mile. But today I ran 1.60 miles in 20 minutes!!!! I lowered my speed back down to 4.7, threw my sweater over the time and mileage, and just ran! I got a slight shin splint in my right leg which I was able to relieve my leaning left so that I would put more pressure on my left leg. Also, I got a small cramp in my right side but after firming up my stomach the cramp quickly subsided. However, my breathing was PERFECT! I was never winded and my breathing was even and deep for the entire run. Breathing used to be my problem, I would get chest pain and feel like i couldn't breath so I am suprised that I was able to correct this problem with time and practice.
The run itself was boring and even though my music was blasting I was still counting down the minutes in my head. I promised myself not to look at the clock until at least 4 songs had finished and by the end of the 4th song I was 15 minutes into my run! So i threw my coat back over the clock and took it off to count down my last minute! My legs were pulsing, they felt heavy, and they hurt but I felt great when I finished. Oddly enough though I was more excited after I completed my eight minute run two days ago. But now that I have completed this 20 minute run I know I can finish the C25K. There's no turning back and there's no quitting this time! I'm excited!
So long story short I completed my 20 minute run and I am so impressed with how far I have come!!!! This time last year, before I started the C25K for the first time (this is my third attempt), I couldn't run 1/6 of a mile. But today I ran 1.60 miles in 20 minutes!!!! I lowered my speed back down to 4.7, threw my sweater over the time and mileage, and just ran! I got a slight shin splint in my right leg which I was able to relieve my leaning left so that I would put more pressure on my left leg. Also, I got a small cramp in my right side but after firming up my stomach the cramp quickly subsided. However, my breathing was PERFECT! I was never winded and my breathing was even and deep for the entire run. Breathing used to be my problem, I would get chest pain and feel like i couldn't breath so I am suprised that I was able to correct this problem with time and practice.
The run itself was boring and even though my music was blasting I was still counting down the minutes in my head. I promised myself not to look at the clock until at least 4 songs had finished and by the end of the 4th song I was 15 minutes into my run! So i threw my coat back over the clock and took it off to count down my last minute! My legs were pulsing, they felt heavy, and they hurt but I felt great when I finished. Oddly enough though I was more excited after I completed my eight minute run two days ago. But now that I have completed this 20 minute run I know I can finish the C25K. There's no turning back and there's no quitting this time! I'm excited!
Sunday, February 20, 2011
W5D2
So it's Sunday and my boyfriend and I headed back to school (we go home every weekend.) We were sitting around and I told him that today was W5D2 so we had to go to the gym. Off course because he is here with me I have to drag him into it! But secretly I think he enjoys it. He is in much better shape than me and used to run a lot during his soccer practices so he makes an excellent running partner. He takes it slow with me and he really helps to boost my confidence. I'll admit it was a little intimidating going to my school gym. The girl next to me ran for at least an hour and then to top it off I had to do two eight minute runs today! That's the longest time I have ever run!!! I did not think I would be able to do it but my boyfriend reassured me that if I didn't make it this time I'd make it next time.
So we stretched and started our 5 minute warm up walk to the gym. I put the treadmill on 5.2 because 4.7 felt slower on this treadmill and before I knew it the first 8 minute run was over. It went fast, no major thigh pain, no cramps, and no shin splints. The bruises and blisters I got during my last run in my mothers shoes didn't even bother me! The next 8 minute run was a bit tougher though; In the last 5 minutes I started feeling a stomach cramp on the bottom left side. By clenching my stomach muscles and putting pressure on the area I was able to rid myself of the pain and again before I knew it I was done! I did not think I would finish W5D2 but I surprised myself (and i think my boyfriend) and finished! My main complaint is that I am clearly dehydrated because my throat hurt and my face burned.
After the run we headed to the weight room, my boyfriends favorite place. I bench pressed the bar (45 pounds yay me!) and my boyfriend bench pressed 115 pounds...just blew me out of the water, but I expected that. Then we did a few extra exercises, bought some water and juice at our dinning hall, and headed back to our room for some stretching! Overall, I had a wonderful workout. I feel amazing and I'm starting to think maybe I can do the 20 minute run!
So we stretched and started our 5 minute warm up walk to the gym. I put the treadmill on 5.2 because 4.7 felt slower on this treadmill and before I knew it the first 8 minute run was over. It went fast, no major thigh pain, no cramps, and no shin splints. The bruises and blisters I got during my last run in my mothers shoes didn't even bother me! The next 8 minute run was a bit tougher though; In the last 5 minutes I started feeling a stomach cramp on the bottom left side. By clenching my stomach muscles and putting pressure on the area I was able to rid myself of the pain and again before I knew it I was done! I did not think I would finish W5D2 but I surprised myself (and i think my boyfriend) and finished! My main complaint is that I am clearly dehydrated because my throat hurt and my face burned.
After the run we headed to the weight room, my boyfriends favorite place. I bench pressed the bar (45 pounds yay me!) and my boyfriend bench pressed 115 pounds...just blew me out of the water, but I expected that. Then we did a few extra exercises, bought some water and juice at our dinning hall, and headed back to our room for some stretching! Overall, I had a wonderful workout. I feel amazing and I'm starting to think maybe I can do the 20 minute run!
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Week 5 Day 1 and goals for my 20th year
There are 49 days until my twentieth birthday and therefore 49 days until I am an official jogger. Yesterday, I came off of a 2 month long hiatus from running and completed week 5 day 1 of the Couch to 5k program. I ran it on my treadmill at a 4.7 speed for the three 5-minute jogging portions. This is slower than I had previously pushed myself but it felt great because I was never out of breath and was able to jog comfortably, even talk, without running out of breath. I could focus on keeping the stomach cramps away by flexing my stomach muscles and most importantly I could focus on my breathing. During the walking portions I stretched to get rid of a shin splint. I always seem to get shin splints on the treadmill but never outside. I'm hoping that I can fit in a run tomorrow outside at a park near school, but that will only happen if the soreness in my thighs goes away. I'm just so happy to have such wonderful weather here on the East Coast in February! Hopefully, this unusual weather is here to stay and because I love pictures that remind me of happy summer days, below I'll post a beautifully pink flower that my family and I found when we went to the Caribbean a few years ago. This picture is one of my favorite summer computer backgrounds!
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Saturday, March 19, 2011
W8D3
Its discouraging when you run farther and harder than you ever have in your life, you cut calroies down to 1200 and your careful not to go to far over, you do some yoga sessions as well as light weights, and generally you feel like you've made progress. Then you step on the scale and it tells you your 114.0 pounds, which means I've gained back 1.6 pounds. So weight wise its been a bad week. I'll admit I had some recces peanut butter cups but they all fit into my 1200 calorie budget. Next week I'll cut those out.
Anyway, on to W8D3. It was a fantastic run! I had done some yoga beforehand that I found on itunes and the boyfriend joined in. Its hard and will help me build strength so I will continue doing it. Then we went for a run on the treadmill. I completed 2.55 miles in 30:35 which is the farthest I have ever run! I ran at a 5 speed on the treadmill the entire time and a 6 speed for the last minute. its always exciting stepping up your pace and succeeding! As for pain I experienced soreness in that place between your foot and shin, maybe a tendon pain? I don't know but I think it is from flexing my foot to much. Other then that no more pain, no dizziness or throwing up, and my breathing was easy and not labored.After the run I experienced the normal small amount of muscle pain that is easy to get over.
Now, I'm on spring break! But this dosen't mean that I get a break from running. Traditionally I break over my holidays and fall of the running wagon completely. The boyfriend and I have decided that we will try running outside. If I decide that outside running is ultimately what I want to do then I'll get the garmin forerunner 210 for my birthday in 3 weeks. It will be the perfect inspiration to continue running! And hopefully running outside isn't as boring as running on the treadmill!!!
Anyway, on to W8D3. It was a fantastic run! I had done some yoga beforehand that I found on itunes and the boyfriend joined in. Its hard and will help me build strength so I will continue doing it. Then we went for a run on the treadmill. I completed 2.55 miles in 30:35 which is the farthest I have ever run! I ran at a 5 speed on the treadmill the entire time and a 6 speed for the last minute. its always exciting stepping up your pace and succeeding! As for pain I experienced soreness in that place between your foot and shin, maybe a tendon pain? I don't know but I think it is from flexing my foot to much. Other then that no more pain, no dizziness or throwing up, and my breathing was easy and not labored.After the run I experienced the normal small amount of muscle pain that is easy to get over.
Now, I'm on spring break! But this dosen't mean that I get a break from running. Traditionally I break over my holidays and fall of the running wagon completely. The boyfriend and I have decided that we will try running outside. If I decide that outside running is ultimately what I want to do then I'll get the garmin forerunner 210 for my birthday in 3 weeks. It will be the perfect inspiration to continue running! And hopefully running outside isn't as boring as running on the treadmill!!!
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
W8D2
Today my boyfriend had to pull me up to go running. It gets hard to stay motivated and he knows that if I dont run I'll pester and badger him about how guilty I feel, better to just kick me to get me running. So after looking at pictures of people on google who participated in the Disney princess 1/2 marathon (my goal for January) I was pumped up enough to allow him to give me the kick I needed to get started, yes motivation for me comes in two parts sometimes. But I'm so glad that he pushed and I decided to run because I completed W8D2, and had a little help doing so!
Today I ran in my new PINK Zensah calf sleeves. They are amazing! I didn't get any shin splints for the first time since probably week 5. I kept them on to walk around campus and also didn't get any of the usual front shin pain. It'll take more runs to see if these beauties work but so far the verdict is YES! Without the shin pain the run went a lot smoother. I didn't feel the need to vomit this time, thank God, and overall it felt as though I pushed for the second half but not as hard as I pushed on W8D1.
For today's run I kept the speed at 4.7, afraid to get nauseous again, and told myself that I could look at the clock after 7 songs. After those songs were completed I had 4 more minutes left. Those 4 minutes wizzed by and I told myself that I could run for another half of a song and that would bring me to 30 minutes, so I ran! Today I completed 2.35 miles in 30 minutes! I wish I had reached the 2.5 mile mark, my boyfriend, running at 5.0, reached 2.55 miles, but there is always next time. I've decided that the W8D1 nausea was a fluke and that I am physically capable of handeling the 5.0 speed for 30 minutes. So thats my goal for W8D3.
But running isn't all of the exercise that I've been doing! My boyfriend is helping me lift weights in our room. We use a dung bell (I think) and I lift the bar and the clips that hold the weights on, for a total of 5 pounds. I don't want huge muscles just some upper body tone. Along with running, and lifting weight, I am also watching my calorie intake! I;v decided to not count my calories lost in my calorie tracking however because I dont not yet have a heart rate monitor. Today I consumed 1222 calories (22 over my 1200 goal). So hopefully if I keep tracking and running I will get to my ideal running weight of 105 pounds soon.
Today I ran in my new PINK Zensah calf sleeves. They are amazing! I didn't get any shin splints for the first time since probably week 5. I kept them on to walk around campus and also didn't get any of the usual front shin pain. It'll take more runs to see if these beauties work but so far the verdict is YES! Without the shin pain the run went a lot smoother. I didn't feel the need to vomit this time, thank God, and overall it felt as though I pushed for the second half but not as hard as I pushed on W8D1.
For today's run I kept the speed at 4.7, afraid to get nauseous again, and told myself that I could look at the clock after 7 songs. After those songs were completed I had 4 more minutes left. Those 4 minutes wizzed by and I told myself that I could run for another half of a song and that would bring me to 30 minutes, so I ran! Today I completed 2.35 miles in 30 minutes! I wish I had reached the 2.5 mile mark, my boyfriend, running at 5.0, reached 2.55 miles, but there is always next time. I've decided that the W8D1 nausea was a fluke and that I am physically capable of handeling the 5.0 speed for 30 minutes. So thats my goal for W8D3.
But running isn't all of the exercise that I've been doing! My boyfriend is helping me lift weights in our room. We use a dung bell (I think) and I lift the bar and the clips that hold the weights on, for a total of 5 pounds. I don't want huge muscles just some upper body tone. Along with running, and lifting weight, I am also watching my calorie intake! I;v decided to not count my calories lost in my calorie tracking however because I dont not yet have a heart rate monitor. Today I consumed 1222 calories (22 over my 1200 goal). So hopefully if I keep tracking and running I will get to my ideal running weight of 105 pounds soon.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Motivation
Everyone who keeps up with the C25K has to have some motivation to persist so I'll say a little bit about some recent motivation that I received that helped me begin week 8. At the begning of my third sttempt at C25K three weeks ago I weighed about 116.8 pounds, this was the closest I had ever been to 117 pounds and it was in the morning before I ate so there was a possibility that I was 117 pounds by the end of the day. I contemplated another crash diet where I'd starve myself and then inevitably give in and gain back all of the weight plus more. After all that kind of behavior is what made me 116 pounds in the first place. But instead I started the C25K again at W5D1. Yesterday before my run, I weighed 112.4 pounds. The lowest weight I have been this year (yes I know the year just started) and probably lower than my lowest last year (not including when I'd starve or purge).
This revelation made me feel incredible and I had to keep up with the running. The weight loss came as a suprise to me. I wasen't even planning on weighing myself! Two weeks ago I had dropped to 114 pounds but during my period last week I was 115 pounds so I thought maybe the weight loss was a fluke. I weighed myself thinking I would be 116 pounds again and this would motivate me to run, so I was pleasantly surprised!
Even more surprising however, was the fact that I didn't have to diet and I was gulping down water like someone who'd been stuck in a desert. Also, I felt hungrier last week then I ever have in my life! I would constantly get hunger pangs and was eating at least three meals a day most days, even breakfast which I don't usually like to eat. In short, I ate A LOT and drank tons, assuming that water weight was inevitable, and still lost weight. Screw the 1200 calories that these online calculators say I need to be eating to be 105 pounds (which is apparently my ideal running weight), I can eat and be healthy, happy, and skinny! This is a new concept to me!
Some people may wonder why this weight loss is a suprise to me and its because I have never lost weight through anything but dieting. Even the first 4 weeks of the C25K did not help me loose weight. This weight loss makes me realize that I'm doing a good job. Sure running is hard and at times I hate it but I'm finally getting results and feeling healthy and active, not to mention my self confidence is shooting up!
This revelation made me feel incredible and I had to keep up with the running. The weight loss came as a suprise to me. I wasen't even planning on weighing myself! Two weeks ago I had dropped to 114 pounds but during my period last week I was 115 pounds so I thought maybe the weight loss was a fluke. I weighed myself thinking I would be 116 pounds again and this would motivate me to run, so I was pleasantly surprised!
Even more surprising however, was the fact that I didn't have to diet and I was gulping down water like someone who'd been stuck in a desert. Also, I felt hungrier last week then I ever have in my life! I would constantly get hunger pangs and was eating at least three meals a day most days, even breakfast which I don't usually like to eat. In short, I ate A LOT and drank tons, assuming that water weight was inevitable, and still lost weight. Screw the 1200 calories that these online calculators say I need to be eating to be 105 pounds (which is apparently my ideal running weight), I can eat and be healthy, happy, and skinny! This is a new concept to me!
Some people may wonder why this weight loss is a suprise to me and its because I have never lost weight through anything but dieting. Even the first 4 weeks of the C25K did not help me loose weight. This weight loss makes me realize that I'm doing a good job. Sure running is hard and at times I hate it but I'm finally getting results and feeling healthy and active, not to mention my self confidence is shooting up!
Sunday, March 13, 2011
W8D1
Well I did it! Fought through a painful eye (more on that later), nausea, and slightly swore legs. The run started out well but I just couldn't stop focusing on the pain after 15 minutes! I was planning on doing 30 minutes but I felt like I was going to throw up for half of the run so at the 28 minute mark I was finished! But I was pleasantly surprised that I didn't get any shin splints and the muscle pain was minimum. Which is great but I'm still looking forward to trying out my new PINK Zensah calf sleeves which will hopefully get rid of my shin splints forever! They arrive tommorow and I'm hoping to have them before my run on Tuesday, it all depends on how quick my dorm sorts the mail.
Now on to the eye! I wanted to re-oxidize my seashell Pandora charm so I got a hard boiled egg at the dining hall on Thursday but forgot to bring it home with me on Friday. So I decided to reheat the egg today in the microwave to start the process. As it turns out you cant heat an egg for 45 seconds when the shell isn't peeled off. I learned this the hard way when I opened the microwave, stared putting my head close to the opening, and the egg exploded. Egg went EVERYWHERE, and the microwave was splattered with egg. Unfortunately, hot pieces of egg or shell (who knows) flew up and hit me in my eye. So my eye has been burning and red all day. I had thought that the eye lid was all that got hit by the egg but after my run, about 3 hours later, my eye became very painful and I started rubbing it. When I pulled my hand away I found a big piece of egg had been in my eye! Twice more I found egg, thankfully smaller pieces, in my eye. I'm scared they'll get trapped in the back part of my head or something and rot...On the bright side, because I'm trying to be a more optimistic person, I learned a lesson today: I hate eggs.
Now on to the eye! I wanted to re-oxidize my seashell Pandora charm so I got a hard boiled egg at the dining hall on Thursday but forgot to bring it home with me on Friday. So I decided to reheat the egg today in the microwave to start the process. As it turns out you cant heat an egg for 45 seconds when the shell isn't peeled off. I learned this the hard way when I opened the microwave, stared putting my head close to the opening, and the egg exploded. Egg went EVERYWHERE, and the microwave was splattered with egg. Unfortunately, hot pieces of egg or shell (who knows) flew up and hit me in my eye. So my eye has been burning and red all day. I had thought that the eye lid was all that got hit by the egg but after my run, about 3 hours later, my eye became very painful and I started rubbing it. When I pulled my hand away I found a big piece of egg had been in my eye! Twice more I found egg, thankfully smaller pieces, in my eye. I'm scared they'll get trapped in the back part of my head or something and rot...On the bright side, because I'm trying to be a more optimistic person, I learned a lesson today: I hate eggs.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Great day
I already posted about my run but later on I got thinking that ever since running I've been a happier person! People always say that exercising makes you a happier person but I never bought into that idea. These realization came after having read an article in my school newspaper that stated that my university is one of the "most obese and stressed" universities in America. I wasn't surprised by this at all. The academics are very hard and people do stress out a lot. And just walking around school you see many overweight and obese people. But it is sad to me named the most stressed and obese. The good thing about the title however is that my school set aside $50,000 to redo the gym, and I have to say I love the new treadmills!
So yes I am excited to continue running, I can't wait until I start seeing body changes but my attitude had changed tremendously. I'm excited!
So yes I am excited to continue running, I can't wait until I start seeing body changes but my attitude had changed tremendously. I'm excited!
W7D2 and W7D3
Thank goodness I was able to finish the 25 minute run on W7D2. It was a pretty normal and exhausting run, speed was 4.7, I finished 2 miles, developed a shin splint in each leg, and my legs went numb entirely after 15 minutes. After my last run that I couldn't complete I was just happy to finish W7D2, even if it was just barely.
Because of my last two runs I was convinced that I would have to do another day or two of the 25 minute runs as oppose to going onto week 8. But I surprised myself with the W7D3 run! Before I go into details let me just say that this was the single BEST run of my life!!!! I may have actually experienced a runners high!!! The first 15 minutes were hard, I wanted to quit because I had 2 shin splints and I was hungry. But then I discovered a small gray mark on the wall across the gym from where I was. As a side note my school gym is tiny but it is nice that they have a "cardio balcony" that overlooks the courts so you can watch the wrestlers and basket ball players and keep distracted while working out.
So back to the mark. I started staring at that mark and then a song came on my ipod that had a wonderful beat to it. I focused on a quieter instrument in that song that I had never notice before, stared at my dot, let my face and body go slack, and just ran. Then I raised the speed to 5.0mph and ran some more. Before I knew it I had 45 seconds left in my run so I finished strong. For the first time since I began the 25 minute runs I felt comfortable for the last portion and felt like I could continue to run. I completed half the run at 4.7mph and the other half at 5.0mph so I worked harder than ever! And offcourse the runners high that you get when the run is complete is fantastic!
Now the the injuries. I took an Ibuprofen about 1 1/2 hours before my run to see if that would help with the shin splints and to be honest I didn't notice a difference. Now I have my left leg iced down because on the way out of the gym I felt a small pain in my shin, higher up from where I get the pains usually, and it feels like a shin splint. I have never had a shin splint continue after running so I'm being careful and icing it. Hopefully that pain will subside with some massage and a days rest because I'm going to try for another runners high on Thursday!
Because of my last two runs I was convinced that I would have to do another day or two of the 25 minute runs as oppose to going onto week 8. But I surprised myself with the W7D3 run! Before I go into details let me just say that this was the single BEST run of my life!!!! I may have actually experienced a runners high!!! The first 15 minutes were hard, I wanted to quit because I had 2 shin splints and I was hungry. But then I discovered a small gray mark on the wall across the gym from where I was. As a side note my school gym is tiny but it is nice that they have a "cardio balcony" that overlooks the courts so you can watch the wrestlers and basket ball players and keep distracted while working out.
So back to the mark. I started staring at that mark and then a song came on my ipod that had a wonderful beat to it. I focused on a quieter instrument in that song that I had never notice before, stared at my dot, let my face and body go slack, and just ran. Then I raised the speed to 5.0mph and ran some more. Before I knew it I had 45 seconds left in my run so I finished strong. For the first time since I began the 25 minute runs I felt comfortable for the last portion and felt like I could continue to run. I completed half the run at 4.7mph and the other half at 5.0mph so I worked harder than ever! And offcourse the runners high that you get when the run is complete is fantastic!
Now the the injuries. I took an Ibuprofen about 1 1/2 hours before my run to see if that would help with the shin splints and to be honest I didn't notice a difference. Now I have my left leg iced down because on the way out of the gym I felt a small pain in my shin, higher up from where I get the pains usually, and it feels like a shin splint. I have never had a shin splint continue after running so I'm being careful and icing it. Hopefully that pain will subside with some massage and a days rest because I'm going to try for another runners high on Thursday!
Thursday, March 3, 2011
First day of failure W7D1
Today was one of the worst runs of my life. I had to complete a 25 minute run, which I had already completed in W6D3 but for some reason I chocked. I jumped on one of the older treadmills at my school gym, figure out how to get it to work after 5 minutes of messing with it, and took off at my normal speed. Five minutes later my calves were so tight that I motioned to my boyfriend that I'd have to stop, but I kept trying. Ten minutes in however, after developing a foot cramp and shin splint, I decided to walk to see if the tightness would alleviate itself. Unfortunately, the treadmill wouldn't lower it's speed and I was forced to stand on the side rails. Just standing made my calves tighten in pain. From then on I had to run and then stop when the tightness got worse.
I guess I had to repeat a day eventually but I feel pretty down. I've been beating myself up over it all day. I feel like I failed and in retrospect I think I should have just pushed through it. But in reality it was probably a combination of things that lead me to fail this run today. I ate breakfast at around 8:30 and didn't eat again until I finished my run at almost 3:00. I wanted to grab some bread on my way out but I get awful cramps if I eat before running. I guess Thursdays are going to be difficult days to run with my school schedule. Then add on the fact that I'm mentally exhausted by Thursdays and that the treadmill appeared to not be as inclined as the new ones and the belt seemed to run slower and catch every time I stepped down, and I was doomed from the start to have a bad run. I'll try again on Sunday after 2 days of rest, stretches, and maybe a massage from the loving boyfriend and hopefully I'll be able to complete this run...Everyone has a bad day every once in a while, right?
I guess I had to repeat a day eventually but I feel pretty down. I've been beating myself up over it all day. I feel like I failed and in retrospect I think I should have just pushed through it. But in reality it was probably a combination of things that lead me to fail this run today. I ate breakfast at around 8:30 and didn't eat again until I finished my run at almost 3:00. I wanted to grab some bread on my way out but I get awful cramps if I eat before running. I guess Thursdays are going to be difficult days to run with my school schedule. Then add on the fact that I'm mentally exhausted by Thursdays and that the treadmill appeared to not be as inclined as the new ones and the belt seemed to run slower and catch every time I stepped down, and I was doomed from the start to have a bad run. I'll try again on Sunday after 2 days of rest, stretches, and maybe a massage from the loving boyfriend and hopefully I'll be able to complete this run...Everyone has a bad day every once in a while, right?
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
W6D3
After experiencing the worst shin splint of my life during W6D2 on Sunday I looked on two of my favorite running forums for advice and off course asked my boyfriend to comment on my form. The wonderful runners on the forum suggested compression sleeves, running with my upper body more forward, and shin exercises to build up the underdeveloped muscle there. My boyfriend suggested I relax my right foot more during my run. Well, I took three of the suggestions, exercises, relaxing the foot during my run, and leaning forward, and I had a fantastic run! I ran the entire 25 minutes and only experienced muscle tightness, small shin splints that disappeared soon after appearing, and then after 15 minutes my legs and feet went numb entirely.
If the shin splints had reappeared today I was thinking of buying this new product called the Zensah compression sleeve. It is this super tight sleeve that you can wear during and after a run. It helps to support your calf and reduce post-run swelling which lowers recovery time and pain. They come in many different beautiful colors and if I had a job at the moment then I would buy them immediately. However, I'm a poor college student and the sleeves cost around 30$ so I'll wait to see if I need them now or if I can hold off.
After the run I experienced such an amazing feeling of happiness and I think I annoyed my boyfriend! And even now a few hours afterward I feel amazing! Never in my life have I run for 20 minutes (4.7 speed) let alone 2 miles consecutively like I did today! And I know it's going to sound weird but I'm sweating!!! I never sweat! It can be 100 degrees outside and ill pass out but I wont sweat. I think that's probably what I'm most excited about. I am so excited that I'm even giving thought to the Disney 1/2 marathon this January. It is a bit expensive though, at 135$ but it could be a Christmas present from my parents and a reward to myself for doing this! I'm starting to feel like a runner and it feels amazing.
Today's C25K ipod app quote:
If the shin splints had reappeared today I was thinking of buying this new product called the Zensah compression sleeve. It is this super tight sleeve that you can wear during and after a run. It helps to support your calf and reduce post-run swelling which lowers recovery time and pain. They come in many different beautiful colors and if I had a job at the moment then I would buy them immediately. However, I'm a poor college student and the sleeves cost around 30$ so I'll wait to see if I need them now or if I can hold off.
After the run I experienced such an amazing feeling of happiness and I think I annoyed my boyfriend! And even now a few hours afterward I feel amazing! Never in my life have I run for 20 minutes (4.7 speed) let alone 2 miles consecutively like I did today! And I know it's going to sound weird but I'm sweating!!! I never sweat! It can be 100 degrees outside and ill pass out but I wont sweat. I think that's probably what I'm most excited about. I am so excited that I'm even giving thought to the Disney 1/2 marathon this January. It is a bit expensive though, at 135$ but it could be a Christmas present from my parents and a reward to myself for doing this! I'm starting to feel like a runner and it feels amazing.
Today's C25K ipod app quote:
Sunday, February 27, 2011
W6D2
Today I had a fabulous run except one major problem...shin splints! Five minutes into my run I started feeling a pulling and by the end of my first 10 minute run session I had the worst shin splint I have experienced while doing the C25K. It was so bad that the 3 minute walking bit was not long enough to walk this shin splint out. Usually as soon as I stop running the pain is alleviated. By the second 10 minute run I was ready to quit but kept pushing on because I didn't want to have to repeat a day.
After the run and cool down I headed back to my dorm room, with a disgusting burger that I ate half of, and thought about why I am just now experiencing these shin splints. One possibility is that my mother's shoes this weekend ruined my feet because before I wore them I hadn't had shin splints since I first started running. The second possibility is that I really do need to just strengthen the muscle there. So I looked up some exercises that will hopefully help. I will do these exercises 3 times a day and I'm hoping that magically the shin splints wont appear during the 25 minute run that I have scheduled for Tuesday.
On a separate note, I have found something that is calming but distracting enough during my runs, audio books! I selected one from iTunes this morning entitled "my secret life" and I listened to the first 20-something minutes of it during my run. It sure beats listening to angry loud music, which ruins the relaxing factor of exercising, and it is interesting enough that I do not always have to focus on pain or breathing. Also, because I love reading but don't have time for it during the school year, I look forward to having a book read to me!
So overall, today's run was amazing! My breathing keeps getting easier and I am not experiencing muscle pain anymore after my runs. If I could get rid of the shin splint in my right leg, without my normal solution of hobbling, then I'm sure I could raise my speed and complete a 5K this week! One last thing, on my C25K ipod app there is a motivational quote for each day. I'm going to put them here after I achieve each of the runs to help with motivation. Today's quote:
"Running is like mouthwash. If you can feel the burn, it's working."-Brian Tackett
After the run and cool down I headed back to my dorm room, with a disgusting burger that I ate half of, and thought about why I am just now experiencing these shin splints. One possibility is that my mother's shoes this weekend ruined my feet because before I wore them I hadn't had shin splints since I first started running. The second possibility is that I really do need to just strengthen the muscle there. So I looked up some exercises that will hopefully help. I will do these exercises 3 times a day and I'm hoping that magically the shin splints wont appear during the 25 minute run that I have scheduled for Tuesday.
On a separate note, I have found something that is calming but distracting enough during my runs, audio books! I selected one from iTunes this morning entitled "my secret life" and I listened to the first 20-something minutes of it during my run. It sure beats listening to angry loud music, which ruins the relaxing factor of exercising, and it is interesting enough that I do not always have to focus on pain or breathing. Also, because I love reading but don't have time for it during the school year, I look forward to having a book read to me!
So overall, today's run was amazing! My breathing keeps getting easier and I am not experiencing muscle pain anymore after my runs. If I could get rid of the shin splint in my right leg, without my normal solution of hobbling, then I'm sure I could raise my speed and complete a 5K this week! One last thing, on my C25K ipod app there is a motivational quote for each day. I'm going to put them here after I achieve each of the runs to help with motivation. Today's quote:
"Running is like mouthwash. If you can feel the burn, it's working."-Brian Tackett
Saturday, February 26, 2011
This morning was refreshing. I woke up feeling happy, hungry, and excited to start running again. Usually I don't eat breakfast, its a bad habit of mine that I'm working on correcting, but this morning I was awoken by my stomach growling and two stiff calves. I have to watch random quick leg pulling while I'm in bed, especially since I've started running, because I've become prone to calf cramps. So with the combined noise of my stomach and the tight uncomfortable warnings from my calves I ventured downstairs for some grub. I wanted a big cup of orange juice (orange juice is my weakness, I drink it by the gallons) but instead I decided on some cereal, a fruit cup, and a bottle of water. I think I need more potassium to help with the calf cramps and eyebrow twitching that I've been getting so hopefully this fruit cup has some potassium.
Yesterday I was willing to give up the C25K; today after reading on of my favorite blogs (fat man running-whose authors sadly stopped posting), and after going on the cool running's beginners forum I am excited to continue tomorrow. Which reminds me, I have no muscle pain from yesterday. I get stiffness when I walk up the stairs but there's absolutely no muscle pain! So I'm going to enjoy my breakfast now and continue to imagine myself running in a cute pink and gray outfit on vacation this summer!
Yesterday I was willing to give up the C25K; today after reading on of my favorite blogs (fat man running-whose authors sadly stopped posting), and after going on the cool running's beginners forum I am excited to continue tomorrow. Which reminds me, I have no muscle pain from yesterday. I get stiffness when I walk up the stairs but there's absolutely no muscle pain! So I'm going to enjoy my breakfast now and continue to imagine myself running in a cute pink and gray outfit on vacation this summer!
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I had a pretty uneventful day...except the TWO pounds I lost this week!!! Last weekend I restarted the C25K at week 5 because I was 116.8 pounds, today, exactly 6 days later, I am 114.4 pounds and off course I have set a new running record with how long I can run! So it's been an awesome week. When I did the C25K before I never passed week 4 and I didn't loose any weight and I was dieting then, so I didn't expect to loose any now with all the water I had been drinking I was afraid I'd gain water weight! So you can imagine my surprise when I didn't diet, just drank more water and ran and I've lost 2 pounds. I am very excited! This is the perfect inspiration to continue with the program; I'm not hugely religious but maybe this is God's way of telling me to keep up the good work.
Friday, February 25, 2011
W6D1
W6D1: 5 minute warm up walk, 5 minute run, 3 minute walk, 8 minute run, 3 minute walk, 5 minute run, 5 minute cool down walk, for a total of 29 minutes.
Today was just horrible. I can't believe that i saved my run until this afternoon, at the end of a long week/day. I was exhausted after keeping up with school all week and all I wanted to do was cuddle up with a slice of my favorite red velvet cheesecake and fall asleep. But I promised myself that I would run so that's what I did, the whole time wishing I had run on Thursday when I was more enthusiastic and less tired. Unfortunately, I forgot my sports bra and running socks and shoes in my dorm room when I went home this afternoon. Consequently, I was forced to run in paper thin socks with no heel cushion, a thick padded bra, and worst of all worn-out cheap sneakers.
From the instant I started running(5.0 MPH speed) I knew I had made a mistake with these shoes. Only 2 minutes into my run I had developed shin splints in BOTH shins and major calf tightening. I will say it took more will power to power through this workout than it did to get through W5D3 when I was more comfortable and in a better mood. Today's run has showed me how important enthusiasm is for me to have a successful running day. I did complete W6D1, it was painful, but at least I was able to power through it. Now however, I am nervous for the 25 minute run...maybe as long as I don't have to do it on my treadmill at home, in those god awful sneakers, I'll do as well as I did on the 20 minute run. To be honest today made me want to quit the C25K but I wont because I know another good running day is coming. At least I get Saturday off!
I've decided that I beat myself up to much. I want to achieve the C25K so badly that when it isn't easy I get mad at my performance. I need to remember that the things in life that are worth having take hard work. Also, I need to stop thinking about and worrying about my next run. I need to have more fun with this and just advance at my own pace. I'll be where I want to be soon enough. But, if i keep getting angry with myself I'll drop the program all together like I've done twice before. From tonight on I am going to focus on not hyping up my runs and beating myself up over my performance. I need to dwell on positive aspects of my run, like my ability to finally breath, and forget about what could have been done better.
Motivational quote of the day:
"If you don't dare to begin, you don't stand a chance of getting there."-Author Unknown
Today was just horrible. I can't believe that i saved my run until this afternoon, at the end of a long week/day. I was exhausted after keeping up with school all week and all I wanted to do was cuddle up with a slice of my favorite red velvet cheesecake and fall asleep. But I promised myself that I would run so that's what I did, the whole time wishing I had run on Thursday when I was more enthusiastic and less tired. Unfortunately, I forgot my sports bra and running socks and shoes in my dorm room when I went home this afternoon. Consequently, I was forced to run in paper thin socks with no heel cushion, a thick padded bra, and worst of all worn-out cheap sneakers.
From the instant I started running(5.0 MPH speed) I knew I had made a mistake with these shoes. Only 2 minutes into my run I had developed shin splints in BOTH shins and major calf tightening. I will say it took more will power to power through this workout than it did to get through W5D3 when I was more comfortable and in a better mood. Today's run has showed me how important enthusiasm is for me to have a successful running day. I did complete W6D1, it was painful, but at least I was able to power through it. Now however, I am nervous for the 25 minute run...maybe as long as I don't have to do it on my treadmill at home, in those god awful sneakers, I'll do as well as I did on the 20 minute run. To be honest today made me want to quit the C25K but I wont because I know another good running day is coming. At least I get Saturday off!
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I've decided that I beat myself up to much. I want to achieve the C25K so badly that when it isn't easy I get mad at my performance. I need to remember that the things in life that are worth having take hard work. Also, I need to stop thinking about and worrying about my next run. I need to have more fun with this and just advance at my own pace. I'll be where I want to be soon enough. But, if i keep getting angry with myself I'll drop the program all together like I've done twice before. From tonight on I am going to focus on not hyping up my runs and beating myself up over my performance. I need to dwell on positive aspects of my run, like my ability to finally breath, and forget about what could have been done better.
Motivational quote of the day:
"If you don't dare to begin, you don't stand a chance of getting there."-Author Unknown
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Nothing today
I've been feeling extremely anxious and kind of upset today. I don't know if its because of my test or because of running. Turns out that reading a ton of running forums and seeing how far others are (marathons and half marathons) is rather depressing when you have just finished the first 20 minute run of your life. These people should inspire me but all they do is intimidate me and make me feel anxious that I can't do what they do. Pair that with the fact that I wasen't able to run today and that's possibly why I feel like crap. With the exam, my schedule, and my boyfriend's schedule it was impossible to go to the gym today. I know its sad but I still dont have enough confidence to go without him so we decided to do our next run tommorow after school. I'v gotten over the hurdle that is W5D3 I can quit now, but I'm scared that just like the other two times I will. So for today I'm going to keep looking at other people's success and pushing myself mentally to finish.
On another note, I have been giving thought as to what I'll do after I graduate the C25K and have decided to run the 30 minute runs until right after my birthday then I will start the Bridge to 10K, which is a 6 week program that will prepare me for an hour of continuous running. I wish that my boyfriend wanted to continue on to this goal with me but it turns out he isn't interested in running at all. He has decided to do a half hour run with me and then do some weight training for the other half our which works to. As long as we are both healthy and active then I'm satisfied.
One thing I have learned about running is that it takes proper eating and hydration. Before I restarted this run I wouldn't drink very much. I suffered from frequent migraines that required Codine or Oxycontin for relief. Now I am drinking 2-3 bottles of water a day which may not seem like enough, but its plenty for me. I haven't been watching my eating yet though. That's hard to do with my boyfriend because he LOVES his unhealthy food, and I wont lie I do to. After I complete my C25K goal I will ween myself on to better food(not easy in college) because I realize it will ultimately help my performance.
I'll post back tomorrow and I will have finished W6D1.
I am a runner...not because I live and breathe to run every waking moment, but simply...because I run.
On another note, I have been giving thought as to what I'll do after I graduate the C25K and have decided to run the 30 minute runs until right after my birthday then I will start the Bridge to 10K, which is a 6 week program that will prepare me for an hour of continuous running. I wish that my boyfriend wanted to continue on to this goal with me but it turns out he isn't interested in running at all. He has decided to do a half hour run with me and then do some weight training for the other half our which works to. As long as we are both healthy and active then I'm satisfied.
One thing I have learned about running is that it takes proper eating and hydration. Before I restarted this run I wouldn't drink very much. I suffered from frequent migraines that required Codine or Oxycontin for relief. Now I am drinking 2-3 bottles of water a day which may not seem like enough, but its plenty for me. I haven't been watching my eating yet though. That's hard to do with my boyfriend because he LOVES his unhealthy food, and I wont lie I do to. After I complete my C25K goal I will ween myself on to better food(not easy in college) because I realize it will ultimately help my performance.
I'll post back tomorrow and I will have finished W6D1.
I am a runner...not because I live and breathe to run every waking moment, but simply...because I run.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
W5D3 Success!!!!
I woke up this morning to 3 inches of fresh beautiful snow! It was perfect because school was delayed until 12:00 and therefore my Cell Biology exam was pushed back until Thursday. My boyfriend and I were able to sleep in today, which for college students, is the greatest gift you can get. I was even able to eat a great breakfast of fruit and lemon bread and drink a bottle of water to prepare for my run. With all of this good luck I should have guessed my 20 minute run would go well.
So long story short I completed my 20 minute run and I am so impressed with how far I have come!!!! This time last year, before I started the C25K for the first time (this is my third attempt), I couldn't run 1/6 of a mile. But today I ran 1.60 miles in 20 minutes!!!! I lowered my speed back down to 4.7, threw my sweater over the time and mileage, and just ran! I got a slight shin splint in my right leg which I was able to relieve my leaning left so that I would put more pressure on my left leg. Also, I got a small cramp in my right side but after firming up my stomach the cramp quickly subsided. However, my breathing was PERFECT! I was never winded and my breathing was even and deep for the entire run. Breathing used to be my problem, I would get chest pain and feel like i couldn't breath so I am suprised that I was able to correct this problem with time and practice.
The run itself was boring and even though my music was blasting I was still counting down the minutes in my head. I promised myself not to look at the clock until at least 4 songs had finished and by the end of the 4th song I was 15 minutes into my run! So i threw my coat back over the clock and took it off to count down my last minute! My legs were pulsing, they felt heavy, and they hurt but I felt great when I finished. Oddly enough though I was more excited after I completed my eight minute run two days ago. But now that I have completed this 20 minute run I know I can finish the C25K. There's no turning back and there's no quitting this time! I'm excited!
So long story short I completed my 20 minute run and I am so impressed with how far I have come!!!! This time last year, before I started the C25K for the first time (this is my third attempt), I couldn't run 1/6 of a mile. But today I ran 1.60 miles in 20 minutes!!!! I lowered my speed back down to 4.7, threw my sweater over the time and mileage, and just ran! I got a slight shin splint in my right leg which I was able to relieve my leaning left so that I would put more pressure on my left leg. Also, I got a small cramp in my right side but after firming up my stomach the cramp quickly subsided. However, my breathing was PERFECT! I was never winded and my breathing was even and deep for the entire run. Breathing used to be my problem, I would get chest pain and feel like i couldn't breath so I am suprised that I was able to correct this problem with time and practice.
The run itself was boring and even though my music was blasting I was still counting down the minutes in my head. I promised myself not to look at the clock until at least 4 songs had finished and by the end of the 4th song I was 15 minutes into my run! So i threw my coat back over the clock and took it off to count down my last minute! My legs were pulsing, they felt heavy, and they hurt but I felt great when I finished. Oddly enough though I was more excited after I completed my eight minute run two days ago. But now that I have completed this 20 minute run I know I can finish the C25K. There's no turning back and there's no quitting this time! I'm excited!
Sunday, February 20, 2011
W5D2
So it's Sunday and my boyfriend and I headed back to school (we go home every weekend.) We were sitting around and I told him that today was W5D2 so we had to go to the gym. Off course because he is here with me I have to drag him into it! But secretly I think he enjoys it. He is in much better shape than me and used to run a lot during his soccer practices so he makes an excellent running partner. He takes it slow with me and he really helps to boost my confidence. I'll admit it was a little intimidating going to my school gym. The girl next to me ran for at least an hour and then to top it off I had to do two eight minute runs today! That's the longest time I have ever run!!! I did not think I would be able to do it but my boyfriend reassured me that if I didn't make it this time I'd make it next time.
So we stretched and started our 5 minute warm up walk to the gym. I put the treadmill on 5.2 because 4.7 felt slower on this treadmill and before I knew it the first 8 minute run was over. It went fast, no major thigh pain, no cramps, and no shin splints. The bruises and blisters I got during my last run in my mothers shoes didn't even bother me! The next 8 minute run was a bit tougher though; In the last 5 minutes I started feeling a stomach cramp on the bottom left side. By clenching my stomach muscles and putting pressure on the area I was able to rid myself of the pain and again before I knew it I was done! I did not think I would finish W5D2 but I surprised myself (and i think my boyfriend) and finished! My main complaint is that I am clearly dehydrated because my throat hurt and my face burned.
After the run we headed to the weight room, my boyfriends favorite place. I bench pressed the bar (45 pounds yay me!) and my boyfriend bench pressed 115 pounds...just blew me out of the water, but I expected that. Then we did a few extra exercises, bought some water and juice at our dinning hall, and headed back to our room for some stretching! Overall, I had a wonderful workout. I feel amazing and I'm starting to think maybe I can do the 20 minute run!
So we stretched and started our 5 minute warm up walk to the gym. I put the treadmill on 5.2 because 4.7 felt slower on this treadmill and before I knew it the first 8 minute run was over. It went fast, no major thigh pain, no cramps, and no shin splints. The bruises and blisters I got during my last run in my mothers shoes didn't even bother me! The next 8 minute run was a bit tougher though; In the last 5 minutes I started feeling a stomach cramp on the bottom left side. By clenching my stomach muscles and putting pressure on the area I was able to rid myself of the pain and again before I knew it I was done! I did not think I would finish W5D2 but I surprised myself (and i think my boyfriend) and finished! My main complaint is that I am clearly dehydrated because my throat hurt and my face burned.
After the run we headed to the weight room, my boyfriends favorite place. I bench pressed the bar (45 pounds yay me!) and my boyfriend bench pressed 115 pounds...just blew me out of the water, but I expected that. Then we did a few extra exercises, bought some water and juice at our dinning hall, and headed back to our room for some stretching! Overall, I had a wonderful workout. I feel amazing and I'm starting to think maybe I can do the 20 minute run!
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Week 5 Day 1 and goals for my 20th year
There are 49 days until my twentieth birthday and therefore 49 days until I am an official jogger. Yesterday, I came off of a 2 month long hiatus from running and completed week 5 day 1 of the Couch to 5k program. I ran it on my treadmill at a 4.7 speed for the three 5-minute jogging portions. This is slower than I had previously pushed myself but it felt great because I was never out of breath and was able to jog comfortably, even talk, without running out of breath. I could focus on keeping the stomach cramps away by flexing my stomach muscles and most importantly I could focus on my breathing. During the walking portions I stretched to get rid of a shin splint. I always seem to get shin splints on the treadmill but never outside. I'm hoping that I can fit in a run tomorrow outside at a park near school, but that will only happen if the soreness in my thighs goes away. I'm just so happy to have such wonderful weather here on the East Coast in February! Hopefully, this unusual weather is here to stay and because I love pictures that remind me of happy summer days, below I'll post a beautifully pink flower that my family and I found when we went to the Caribbean a few years ago. This picture is one of my favorite summer computer backgrounds!
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