Well, I made it through C25K Week 1 and even got an extra run in on Saturday that I wasn't planning. It was definitely harder to make it through that 4th run though. I think my body prefers to have a day of rest in between.
I started Week 2 on Monday and so far, it's going good. My biggest struggle really is getting myself out of bed. The last run interval was rough, but I managed to get through it even though I wanted to stop. I just have to keep motivating myself so I don't give up. I got this.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Monday, April 5, 2010
C25K - Week 1, Day 1 - Do Over
So I'm calling a do-over and starting from scratch. I started this whole C25K thing with gusto. I was ready to commit and I did great the first week. Week 2 didn't go so well. I had the best of intentions but I was tired and overslept on two of my run days. I made up for one, but didn't catch the third one. I had planned to do week two over the following week.
Sunday night, the one before I should have started my Week 3, I ended up taking my mom to the emergency room and was there until 2 a.m. That didn't bode well for a 6 a.m. run. Monday night I came down with some kind of horrible chill-inducing stomach bug, so a Tuesday morning run was out of the question. Wednesday I finally started feeling better, but didn't make it up in time for a run. Thursday was a sleep day, and Friday I had the kids home with me and there was no way they were going to give me 30 minutes to myself to run.
The whole week was just a mess. I decided to give myself the weekend and start up again on Monday, going back to Week 1 workouts.
I did get out of bed this morning, as much as I didn't want to, and got my run in. I bought myself some new running shoes over the weekend and it felt good to slip them on. This week I am going to get at least my 3 scheduled runs in. I might even do a couple extra if I can fit it in.
I CAN do this.
I WILL do this.
Sunday night, the one before I should have started my Week 3, I ended up taking my mom to the emergency room and was there until 2 a.m. That didn't bode well for a 6 a.m. run. Monday night I came down with some kind of horrible chill-inducing stomach bug, so a Tuesday morning run was out of the question. Wednesday I finally started feeling better, but didn't make it up in time for a run. Thursday was a sleep day, and Friday I had the kids home with me and there was no way they were going to give me 30 minutes to myself to run.
The whole week was just a mess. I decided to give myself the weekend and start up again on Monday, going back to Week 1 workouts.
I did get out of bed this morning, as much as I didn't want to, and got my run in. I bought myself some new running shoes over the weekend and it felt good to slip them on. This week I am going to get at least my 3 scheduled runs in. I might even do a couple extra if I can fit it in.
I CAN do this.
I WILL do this.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
C25K - Week 1, Day 2
As much as I didn't want to get out of bed this morning, I did. It was a few minutes later than I had intended, but still plenty of time to get my 30 minutes in on the treadmill. Week 1, Day 2 of C25K was much easier than Day 1 and there's a very good reason for that. Apparently I jumped way ahead of myself and was running 90 sec at a time and walking 60. I should have been running 60 and walking 90. BIG difference! Day 2 felt incredibly easy in comparison.
The other thing that made it easier, was that I discovered this awesome C25K iPhone app. It is really easy to use and you can even build a music play list for your runs right inside the app. Each week's run/walk increments are built right in with audio cues when you need to switch gears which is really helpful - no need to watch the timer. I definitely would recommend it. There is also a list of C25K podcasts available to download that tell you when it is time to switch to running/walking. I haven't checked any of them out (yet) but if you don't have an iPhone or iPod, it gives you some other options.
I'm feeling really good about this whole thing today. My leg muscles are starting to get a little bit sore/stiff but it's the good kind of soreness so it isn't really bothering me. I plan on enjoying my extra 30 minutes of sleep tomorrow, but I'm actually looking forward to my Friday morning run now!
The other thing that made it easier, was that I discovered this awesome C25K iPhone app. It is really easy to use and you can even build a music play list for your runs right inside the app. Each week's run/walk increments are built right in with audio cues when you need to switch gears which is really helpful - no need to watch the timer. I definitely would recommend it. There is also a list of C25K podcasts available to download that tell you when it is time to switch to running/walking. I haven't checked any of them out (yet) but if you don't have an iPhone or iPod, it gives you some other options.
I'm feeling really good about this whole thing today. My leg muscles are starting to get a little bit sore/stiff but it's the good kind of soreness so it isn't really bothering me. I plan on enjoying my extra 30 minutes of sleep tomorrow, but I'm actually looking forward to my Friday morning run now!
Monday, March 15, 2010
C25K - Week 1, Day 1
I'm beginning to think that I should plead temporary insanity and call it a day today. I decided to start the Couch to 5K program and nearly killed myself before 7:00 a.m. this morning. You see, I am not a runner. I absolutely loathe running. It just is not my thing. I could walk and walk and walk all day, but running and I just are not friends.
But, I need to get in better shape. I need to lose weight. I need a fast and effective cardio workout that I can do several times a week (preferably in my home). Oh, and I also want to run the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in August. Yes, in August. I'm giving myself some time to get ready. It is my one goal for the year and I really don't want to fail.
I guess you could say I've been inspired by the many, many, women I've read about lately that have been competing in races all over and raising funds for so many great causes. I've wanted to do Race for the Cure for years and always let it slip by without registering. I always assumed that I would walk it, but for some reason lately I keep thinking maybe, just maybe, I could run it. At the very least, I should be able to run part of it. The thought of running in the August heat is a bit daunting, but I'm going to give it a shot.
Week 1, Day 1 - I got myself out of bed this morning at 6:15, got dressed, got myself to the treadmill, and celebrated that small victory with a drink of water. Then it was time to start the hard part. Amazingly, I made it through the first workout without too much of a struggle but it did get tough toward the end. I'm thinking I may need to do the program a little slower and stretch each week into two weeks, but I'll wait to see how the week finishes out. The whole thing left me a little light headed this morning, but that may have to do with the lack of sleep I got over the weekend and the fact that I got up almost two hours earlier than my body is used to (thanks to the time change).
My biggest concern is whether I'm going to be able to transfer running on the treadmill to running on the streets. The treadmill is my easy choice for early morning workouts since I have one at home. My neighborhood is not the best for running/walking and definitely not a good choice before the sun comes up but I also don't want to have to drive somewhere to get a run in. I know myself and if it's not easily accessible I won't do it. I might be able to get an outdoor run in on the weekend, but also would like to stick to a MWF schedule. I'm going to have to think about that one, but would love any input.
But, I need to get in better shape. I need to lose weight. I need a fast and effective cardio workout that I can do several times a week (preferably in my home). Oh, and I also want to run the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in August. Yes, in August. I'm giving myself some time to get ready. It is my one goal for the year and I really don't want to fail.
I guess you could say I've been inspired by the many, many, women I've read about lately that have been competing in races all over and raising funds for so many great causes. I've wanted to do Race for the Cure for years and always let it slip by without registering. I always assumed that I would walk it, but for some reason lately I keep thinking maybe, just maybe, I could run it. At the very least, I should be able to run part of it. The thought of running in the August heat is a bit daunting, but I'm going to give it a shot.
Week 1, Day 1 - I got myself out of bed this morning at 6:15, got dressed, got myself to the treadmill, and celebrated that small victory with a drink of water. Then it was time to start the hard part. Amazingly, I made it through the first workout without too much of a struggle but it did get tough toward the end. I'm thinking I may need to do the program a little slower and stretch each week into two weeks, but I'll wait to see how the week finishes out. The whole thing left me a little light headed this morning, but that may have to do with the lack of sleep I got over the weekend and the fact that I got up almost two hours earlier than my body is used to (thanks to the time change).
My biggest concern is whether I'm going to be able to transfer running on the treadmill to running on the streets. The treadmill is my easy choice for early morning workouts since I have one at home. My neighborhood is not the best for running/walking and definitely not a good choice before the sun comes up but I also don't want to have to drive somewhere to get a run in. I know myself and if it's not easily accessible I won't do it. I might be able to get an outdoor run in on the weekend, but also would like to stick to a MWF schedule. I'm going to have to think about that one, but would love any input.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Dusting off the Treadmill
Saturday morning I woke up irritated. My kids never sleep in long enough for me to get any benefit on the weekends and I was tired. It didn't help that hubby and I had gotten into a semi-argument the night before just as I was trying to go to sleep. I wasn't ready to face the day.
I reluctantly crawled out of bed, went to the bathroom for my usual morning routine, but stopped before getting in the shower. Instead, I grabbed a sports bra, socks, and tennis shoes and headed for the treadmill.
I haven't used the treadmill in a very long time. If it weren't for the occasional visit from my mother-in-law, I'm not sure the old thing would even function any more. As it is, the display is hard to read (but does work if you can make out the dim numbers) and the belt has a couple of torn spots along the edges. I did actually dust it a couple months ago and clear the cobwebs off, but there was a nice fresh layer of dust that needed removing.
Armed with my Zen and my iPhone to use for a timer (screw the dim, hard-to-read display on the treadmill), I climbed on the belt and started it up. As I took the first few warm-up steps I slid on my headphones and cranked up the music. I've had Tik Tok stuck in my head for days, so I put on some Ke$ha and started jamming. (No judging my choice of music here, the beat kept me moving.)
I figured 20 minutes was a pretty good goal considering the only exercise I've had for the last several months includes chasing around my two little monsters or making a mad dash through the grocery store. Before I even bothered to check the time, I was already over halfway through. A few minutes later and I had met my goal, almost effortlessly.
I'm not at all a runner, so I'll admit to walking at a fast pace for that 20 minutes but it was enough to get my out-of-shape heart pumping and break a sweat. I only clocked a little over a mile, but it made me feel great.
I got off of the treadmill with my head held a little higher, the stresses of the morning a little lessened, and feeling a little bit invincible. It's funny how such a small thing can make such a big difference in your day.
That's why I set my alarm clock a little earlier today and got up and did it again. It was a great way to start the day. I wasn't thrilled to get up earlier, but again, I felt great when I was finished. I'm going to make it a goal to get up early at least 3 days a week from now on and visit my old treadmill. Who knows? Maybe it will end up being a daily thing.
I've been on this quest to simplify, to relax more, to find more "me" time during the day, and to achieve a healthier lifestyle, but I've only been taking a few very timid steps toward it. This is something I need, both for my physical health and my mental health. That 20 minutes on the treadmill did a lot for clearing my mind.
Yes, it's another small step. Yes, I've done it before and before long I've gotten tired of the routine and stopped. I need to find a way to hold myself accountable. Perhaps I should join a Twitter group or other online site. I did check out SparkPeople.com the other day and it looks interesting. Until I decide on something, putting it out here for everyone to see is a start.
I reluctantly crawled out of bed, went to the bathroom for my usual morning routine, but stopped before getting in the shower. Instead, I grabbed a sports bra, socks, and tennis shoes and headed for the treadmill.
I haven't used the treadmill in a very long time. If it weren't for the occasional visit from my mother-in-law, I'm not sure the old thing would even function any more. As it is, the display is hard to read (but does work if you can make out the dim numbers) and the belt has a couple of torn spots along the edges. I did actually dust it a couple months ago and clear the cobwebs off, but there was a nice fresh layer of dust that needed removing.
Armed with my Zen and my iPhone to use for a timer (screw the dim, hard-to-read display on the treadmill), I climbed on the belt and started it up. As I took the first few warm-up steps I slid on my headphones and cranked up the music. I've had Tik Tok stuck in my head for days, so I put on some Ke$ha and started jamming. (No judging my choice of music here, the beat kept me moving.)
I figured 20 minutes was a pretty good goal considering the only exercise I've had for the last several months includes chasing around my two little monsters or making a mad dash through the grocery store. Before I even bothered to check the time, I was already over halfway through. A few minutes later and I had met my goal, almost effortlessly.
I'm not at all a runner, so I'll admit to walking at a fast pace for that 20 minutes but it was enough to get my out-of-shape heart pumping and break a sweat. I only clocked a little over a mile, but it made me feel great.
I got off of the treadmill with my head held a little higher, the stresses of the morning a little lessened, and feeling a little bit invincible. It's funny how such a small thing can make such a big difference in your day.
That's why I set my alarm clock a little earlier today and got up and did it again. It was a great way to start the day. I wasn't thrilled to get up earlier, but again, I felt great when I was finished. I'm going to make it a goal to get up early at least 3 days a week from now on and visit my old treadmill. Who knows? Maybe it will end up being a daily thing.
I've been on this quest to simplify, to relax more, to find more "me" time during the day, and to achieve a healthier lifestyle, but I've only been taking a few very timid steps toward it. This is something I need, both for my physical health and my mental health. That 20 minutes on the treadmill did a lot for clearing my mind.
Yes, it's another small step. Yes, I've done it before and before long I've gotten tired of the routine and stopped. I need to find a way to hold myself accountable. Perhaps I should join a Twitter group or other online site. I did check out SparkPeople.com the other day and it looks interesting. Until I decide on something, putting it out here for everyone to see is a start.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Break
If you're actually following along, you'll notice that I haven't updated for a while. Life is busy and I apparently don't have it in me to focus on food and exercise right now. I'm continuing my break for a few more weeks as I will soon have 6 extra people in my home to share the holidays with my family. Look for more updates in 2010 because I AM going to succeed!
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Week 9 Update
Not much to report this week, I've been up and down and eating like crap. Last week I had to eat several lunches out and didn't exactly keep track of my points like I promised to do. This week I'm back to my 0 points soup so hopefully that will help a little.
I forgot to weigh in on Monday, so this is based on Wednesday's weight but I'm finally down under 220! 218.5 to be exact. Even though I haven't been eating the best foods, at least I'm eating a little less. It's good to see the numbers dropping with as little effort as I'm putting into it. If I could just motivate myself I'm sure I'd see the pounds dropping off faster.
Week 9:
Loss - 2 pounds
Exercise - 0/3
I forgot to weigh in on Monday, so this is based on Wednesday's weight but I'm finally down under 220! 218.5 to be exact. Even though I haven't been eating the best foods, at least I'm eating a little less. It's good to see the numbers dropping with as little effort as I'm putting into it. If I could just motivate myself I'm sure I'd see the pounds dropping off faster.
Week 9:
Loss - 2 pounds
Exercise - 0/3
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)