I've always wanted to be a runner. I've taken up jogging once a financial quarter for the past three years, but I've never gone from being someone who runs to being a runner. You know the type, they wake up early to get their sneakers on, and have a glow that's hard to miss. And they talk about running like it's a friend, not a chore.
I wish I could tell you why I haven't been able to stick with running, but if running is a mental game I just haven't found a way to commit. Between working my job and school and having my blog and creative projects (and being in a relationship & having friends!) I want to wake up early, go for a run and be ready to take on the world! But a lot of the time I can't find enough hours in the day- so much of the time when I try to start running (again), I can't find a comfortable place for it in my day to day. After two weeks of trying, I tend to feel like running will never fit in my life and I go back to something that makes me feel like I'm making progress.
I've been on lots of runs, but my increased heart rate has never changed me. And if there's anything that I'm really bad at it's balance between my body and my brain.
This winter, when we got the treadmill (for the puppies) I knew I had another chance, but more than that I wanted to take the next step from being a repeatedly failing jogger to being A Runner. I kept bumping into women online who were (seemingly) without superpowers but who had made the leap and seemed to be in love with their active lives! And then I tuned into the blogs of a few yoga ladies and the deal was kind of sealed.
Finding a way to get active that energizes me isn't an option anymore, it's mandatory.
But this is the catch: I've never worked with a trainer or worked out in a well rounded way. My story is one of fits and starts, frustration and giving up. I clearly have no idea what plan is right for me, so I need someone else to make that plan. After bothering my friend Lisa a little (thank you, miss!) she pointed me to a training program that had a whole section for beginners!
That counts as a plan- and it's put together by someone who knows what they're doing!!
This week I'm starting to train for my first 5K run and while the distance is short I'm hoping that this will mark a change in my relationship with exercise. I don't want to use it as a means to some kind of end, I want to make it part of my life. This time next year, I want to be looking forward to waking up and getting on the road. I'm not sure when I'll fall in love with running, but between now and then at least I have a plan.
Are you in love with being active? Any tips for someone who's still trying to get there?
I suspect you're all a little endorphin crazed, but I'll listen… ;)
LAST UPDATED ON: June 16th, 2010
CATEGORY: All Posts
I love this photo! Is it a stock image, or one you took yourself?
Thanks Meghan, it’s a photo of me that I added text to.
How exciting for you! Last week, I decided I was going to train to run a half marathon (which is a little crazy, I know, but exciting…), and I’m definitely going to check out that site with the training programs.
I hope the running thing takes hold for you and me. Because I’ve always wanted to be a runner, too.
I’m attempting to do the C25K once again. Gosh, I’m like you. I try it 2-4 times a year. I’m going to finish it this year. I’m going to. Really.
wowie zowie! good luck, and make sure to keep your knees happy!
With running, I hate it in the beginning. Always. But then, after commiting to it for a month or so, I start to love it. I start to love the progress I find and the little change in my body. Inevitably, I go on vacation or work gets crazy or I get sick and I stop running for a bit, but, after my last three month affair with running, I’m ready to pick it back up again and remain committed. Good luck!
For the past few weeks I’ve been trying to run 5k once a week. I’ve fallen in love with running all over again.
It’s just all a matter of getting yourself to run. And if you don’t feel like running that day then run half of what you usually do and once you’re on that track/treadmill you may even want to go all the way. *And* if you prefer running in the morning then just go to bed with some of your running clothes on. Or you can just lay out your work out clothes so when you do get home you’ll feel obliged to run.
I run about once a week. I put it off constantly, even though I would like to run three or four times a week. Once I finally do run, it’s wonderful and I want to do it more. I need someone to force me to do it, I guess. A trainer would be nice.
Hi Kyla,
I’m currently on week 2 of couch to 5K. Being out of shape(like me) it really eases you in gently and you barely realize- “hey! I just ran more than I have in a long time!”
Good Luck!
Good luck! I’ve recently changed my attitude towards exercise as well and it’s such an insane feeling. I’ve reached a point where it’s kind of a struggle again, but I am keeping with it even though I’m slightly bored by it, haha. The running part I am in love with…but it’s my off days when I do a workout video instead. I need to find some videos that really excite me and hold my attention. Bah. Either way, I am proud of myself for keeping up, but still…it’s not always easy! I am, however, contemplating joining a local yoga studio. It’s a bit of money (not too bad though) but I do think I would thank myself for it, and I could ride my bike there which is a total plus. It’s something I’m thinking about…hmmm…we’ll see I suppose! :D
hahah we are totally on the same wavelength! I’m definitely going to have to read through all these comments, too.
You definitely make running shoes look cute though. Good luck! :)
Yay! I can’t wait to hear about your training. I definitely have to have a goal to get motivated!
For the whole month of July I’m going to try the Bikram Yoga 30-day challenge. I hear it’s awesome, and I’m signing up for the 5:30 a.m. classes. I guess that makes me certifiable.
I’ve tried running, but it never really seemed to work for me. If this gets you into a good headspace, let me know because I’d like to try it!
I’ve been a runner for basically all of my life – it was not a choice if you grow up playing soccer, and then when you somehow gain 30 pounds after discovering beer in college, you realize it’s not a choice if you want to stay out of the big and tall section :-) I can say that I still mostly HATE the idea of it, Kyla. Every single time I have to do it, I dread it. But the afterward really is worth it. And the feeling of accomplishment when your run your 5K! I think you’ll find yourself addicted. My advice is don’t be afraid to start slow. If it takes you a month to work up to running a mile, who cares? The point is to be out there doing it. And save your favorite podcasts for running time. I don’t let myself listen to “This American Life” UNLESS I’m running, so it’s a good incentive :-) GOOD LUCK!
I have been there and sometimes I still think I will always be there. Even though I have been running for over five months now, there are days when I just want to quit or there are weeks where I only fit in a run or two. It’s tough but it’s very rewarding. Good luck with your runs!
Hey there… congrats. Making a choice to change your lifestyle is great. Having a goal is key. Starting to run slowly and consistently will help you be successful and motivated. I have been running for about 3 years and am just now doing my first 1/2 marathon… a distance I thought was totally crazy when I first started. I know, it’s taken me a long time – but I’ve done a bunch of shorter races and now the 1/2 training all injury free. If you’ve chosen running – as opposed to cycling/yoga/team sport etc… and with your back history – make sure to build up slowly, get good shoes and stretch. It will be more motivating to feel yourself getting stronger and stronger that way.
I’m excited to hear your updates!! It’s a wonderful journey.
and welcome… that can-do attitude is the first step to becoming the runner that you are already. (first step, hardy-har.)
:)
Wow! I’ve been thinking about doing this too! I SO need to do it!!
Maybe in July ;) I just gotta get out of my motivation funk.
Set your goals and keep them in a place that you can always see them.. It really helps!
I have all the faith in the world in you love.
Best,
Hannah Katy
Happy to be of inspiration! Also, check out @lucky_kristin. Super inspirational!
oohh, so cool!!! i will totally admit that i hate running. i really do. i wish i were good at it, and now after reading this i feel a bit inspired. i’m going to try and change my yucky attitude towards running. ;) i DO, however, absolutely love my elliptical machine! (which broke last week, it hurt my heart… haha, i hope i can get it fixed asap!) i’m super addicted to it, so much so i sometimes use it twice a day! i can “run” a couple of miles easily on that thing – and my body responds to it so well. so i totally use that to justify why i don’t need to actually run. hehe. ;)
I’m not sure if I’m going to be A Runner. But I’ve just started running recently – going as far as even buying a heart monitor to make sure I’m working hard enough.
What I do know is that I struggle every day with weight, and just not having the urge or desire to get up and DO that daily physical activity. However, now that I’ve started this, I have more of an urge, and an urge to try to do more.
What I’ve started with as far as running goes, is to start with a fast-paced walk for 2 mins to warm up. Jog/Run for two minutes, then begin alternating jogging and fast-walking single minutes. For about half an hour.
My goal for next week is continue with that in the mornings, and work my ratio to be more running than walking. Baby steps. However, I also want to tone up everywhere – so come the evenings, I plan to also do some simple weight and ab exercises to really kickstart everything :)
Good luck Kyla! I know you can do this.
1) Do you have an iPhone? (Did you already mention this?) If you have an iPhone I verily recommend the C25K app, because it’s AWESOME. I actually haven’t been a C25K fan in the past because the structure seems a little strange to me, and I’m not a fan of working hard at something for three days and then taking four days off, as I lose any momentum I’ve built those first three days, but the app has me interested again, and I’ve been using it, with success. It marks your progress, and tells you exactly when to run and walk, and you can load all of your own music into it!
2) My only advice with regard to the C25K is not to take four days off in a row. Because, as I stated above, I perpetually struggle with fitness momentum, and I really don’t see a reason not to do something active every day, especially if it’s just for 20/30/40 minutes.
3) And I second (or third?) the recommendation to read “What I Talk About When I Talk About Running.” I just finished it and it was super interesting, honest, and super inspiring as well. In fact, I’d happily send it to you!
4) Good luck! Let me know if ever you need an encouraging running-related word. I’m happy to give them out in large quantities.
I did the Couch to 5K program for the first time about seven years ago. I struggled even in the first few weeks where you only have have to run for 30 second or a minute at a time, but it turned me into a runner. My advice is the obvious, push on even though it’s really hard, because there does come a point where it gets a whole lot easier. And by that, I mean that it becomes a whole lot more fun!
I’ve fallen out of shape throughout grad school, but I started the Couch to 5K program over again about 6 weeks ago and I’m so happy to be running again.
I’m running my first half marathon in a week and a half, and I’m still not a runner. I have tried and tried. I definitely have found that I can do more than I thought I could, but I still don’t enjoy it all that much. But I love to be active. I love walking and swimming and dancing yoga and playing frisbee or softball. I don’t think I’ll ever be a runner and I’ve accepted it. But I would keep pushing yourself to the limit. You might surprise yourself.
wow. i’d never even heard of this program but it sounds great. definitely going to check it out since one of my 101 in 1001 is to run a marathon. good luck!
Kyla! I think you should read “What I Talk About When I Talk About Running by Murakami. It’s about his life and his relationship with running. I think the most interesting part of it was when he asked a professional runner if it’s ever hard to get out running in the morning. He said that it’s hard every day. But once he’s out there and gets into it it becomes if not comfortable, then familiar.
I think this is something that usually surprises people. I know I thought runners would all jump out of bed first thing, but it can be difficult for even the most practiced. The thing to remember is what separates a runner from a non-runner isn’t the ease of getting out of bed, it’s the fact that they do it anyway.
Best of luck! Don’t be too hard on yourself.
And then you should read his novels, Kyla, because they are terrific!
I feel ya on trying to cram some exercise into the already full day. I’m supposed to run at 10K with Ashley next month and have barely started training. I need to get my butt in gear!
Firstly, love your picture attached to this post!!
I have recently started running regularly, well more like jogging/fast walking with a bit of running mixed in, and I actually look forward to it now. I was never the type of person who felt the need to run for exercise. I was much happier just doing some type of dance-cardio for a workout. But a couple of months ago, I was talking with best friend and she was talking about how she’s really gotten into running and marathons and the overall positive impact it has brought to her life. She talked me into just giving it a try for myself by figuring out my own pace by working on quickening my walking speed.
Fast forward to about 3 months later and I’m a huge fan of running! and running has also made me appreciate yoga in a completely different light. it perfectly complements a running regimen and helps with strengthening and easing out “the kinks.”
I also read a lot of blogs that focus on running and eating healthy which help maintain my motivation. One that I really enjoy is http://www.healthytippingpoint.com
good luck to you on this!!
If it’s any consolation (and I hope it is), I used to not be able to run at all. I signed myself up for a 10k in hopes of becoming a runner, only to fail miserably at my first mile, huffing and puffing pathetically. Using Hal Higdon’s program, and the help of one supportive hubby, I was able to run not one, but TWO 10ks last year. And this year? I’ve got my eye on a half marathon in October.
My tip: Invest in a pair of Nike+ running shoes, and use your ipod to track your distance. It was perfect for 8 weeks of training!
Good luck missy! You’ll do great!
Good luck with this! I have heard great things about it–I don’t fancy myself being a runner, ever. I love being active in other ways, but running just isn’t my spark, for now, anyway!
Man i want to jump on this band wagon. my body is screaming, help me fix me take care of me, more and more these days. and i want to be a runner! i only started running this year and it is kind of a battle. it happens in spurts and usually the runs are short and crappy. i need a challenge. im going to check out the program for sure :)
Congrats! I did my first 5K a few years ago and felt invincible after!
I want to be a runner so badly. I’ve gone through a couple phases where I found myself running regularly in the past 5 years or so, but it’s truly the hardest habit for me to form. Like you, I just don’t have the motivation to find the time to commit to it. And running required a lot of practice for me. It doesn’t come as quickly or easily as yoga. With yoga, I can feel myself improving quickly, but running is a slow burn and I find that really discouraging. Without jumping the gun, I’ve been trying to increase my activity levels recently and have been doing a fair job at it. I hope to integrate C25K soon, but I don’t want to try until I am more certain that it won’t be too discouraging. I don’t want to break this habit of exercise before it even forms.
Like others who’ve commented, I also did the Couch to 5K. I did the Cool Runnings program, which starts you off at a MUCH slower pace than the one you linked. I was not a runner AT ALL. If I’d tried to do the one you mentioned, I would have quit after day 1.
To be honest, I still don’t love running. I do it 2-3 times a week, depending on how busy I am, and every time I do it, I’m thinking “gosh, this sucks!” But then, when it’s over, I feel amazing. And so proud. It also feels kind of crazy-delicious to sweat out my frustrations and also toxins. :)
congrats on deciding to do the couch to 5k program! i for one really like hal’s training programs. i wasn’t a “runner” until a little over a year ago. but now with two half marathons under my belt and my first (!) marathon on the way in october (im staying with miss nilsa, speak of the devil!), i guess i am a runner.
im proud of you! good luck!
and if you want to read about my running experiences, my other blog (which i think you’ve seen before?) is http://www.runningwithoutheels.wordpress.com
YAY!
I’ve been trying for a year or so to become a runner. It’s not something I love but it’s something I want to be able to do. I’ve tried the C25K program a few times and it works, but I’m the type to think I can do it on my own so I stop using it after Week 4-5.
I want to be a runner, but I lack the endurance right now. And I lack the joy so many runners find from it.
I wish you luck on this journey!
I’ve heard GREAT things about Couch of 5K, and I even went so far as to print it out and keep it next to my treadmill.
Did I do it? Well, maybe once or twice.
I used to consider myself a runner.
I ran and loved track in HS, and in college I had a very set workout schedule. But as an adult…I can’t make it work.
I’ve been trying for the last week to get up at 5am to go running – I’ve failed EVERY MORNING (and consequently been late to work – because in my sleepy haze I turn off the alarm, and don’t set a new one)
I’m still trying – and I feel like TOMORROW (yeah, that’s it!) will be the day that my conscious brain wakes up in time to go for a jog.
If you find out the secret to motivating oneself to even begin working out, let me know. ;)
I think some people just don’t like running. And that’s ok. It doesn’t mean they don’t like exercise, but just that they have to figure out what kind of exercise they like.
If you have tried and tried to love running, and it hasn’t worked, why not try a different form of cardio? I’m not trying to deter your efforts, just saying that forcing yourself to like running when you don’t is a bit like trying to force yourself to like brussel sprouts when you don’t. I used to be a big runner and then one day i Just. Got. Bored. I couldn’t do it anymore. SO I started taking Cardio Dance classes. They are so fun that I’m always sad when it’s over and can’t wait to go back, even though I am sweating my brains out. Maybe that’s more your speed? Or biking? To me, the trick to making exercise really a part of your life, and to have that early morning glow, is finding something you love to do. It’s not all one size fits all, and that’s ok!
My relationship with running is much like yours. I have an on-again off-again relationship with running. I like running – I’m just not ready for running to meet my parents, you know? There will be no invite to the family Thanksgiving dinner for running but I might let running take me to dinner and a movie (as long as running is picking up the bill.)
I’ve trained for (and completed) a few 5K runs but I always fizzle after the run is completed. I am stubborn and determined – if I commit to a 5K I will run the fucking 5K but after that? I’m out. I’ve got wonky knees so running does actually equal a fair bit of pain for me so I’m not sure I could ever feel positive about it. Part of my summer plan is to buy a nice pair of running shoes (instead of just the on-sale running shoes) and download the Coach to 5K app everyone is talking about and really make a concerted effort to add running to my daily routine. We’ll see how that goes :)
Hey,
Linked you from Sleepyjanes place. Love the Tatt. If you manage to find a way to motivate yourself for running that makes you enjoy it, let me know. We have a running machine, and I do go on it from time to time. One day I may even turn it on !! LOL – I really need to exercise. I have a midrift the size of Kansas, and it’s not getting any smaller. I know I need to exercise, but I have zero motivation to do it. So when you find something that works, let me know ;)
I just downloaded the C25K app on my iphone this weekend! I’ve also tried a few times and just didn’t get into it. Hopefully taking this step by step beginner outlook will help mold me into the runner I want to be! You should definitely get the app, it’s a huge help!!
I ran three seasons a year in high school (because it was the only sport I could do without tripping over myself), and STILL never became a Runner.
It just ain’t in me. After about a decade, I’ve come to terms with it. And that’s okay.
Well, if you’re anything like me (aaaaaaand, I think you are), you will spend a lot of time telling yourself that you have “so much work to do at home, so many chores and so much dog-walking to do and so many people who are depending on you to do {insert obligation} for/with them” and that spending your precious time “exercising” {pronounced with disdain} is just not acceptable.
Now, I tell myself that my #1 chore is to look after myself. That means 1) eat right, 2) sleep right, 3) take vitamins, 4) rest when sick, and 5) exercise. That means that exercise comes before vacuuming, cleaning, spending time with friends, or (gasp!) blogging. It comes before watching movies (waaahhhh!) or reading (double waaahhh!) or crafting.
And you know what? It works. Don’t ask me how, it just does.
Awwww, thanks for the shout-out, friend. I never considered myself a runner, either. I played soccer in high school and was a power walker through college, but never ran. After college, my then-boyfriend told me I could run, but that I probably would run at a pace that wasn’t as fast as I thought I should run. It was an interesting statement that’s stuck with me for 15 years. That’s when I started running. Short distances. Not for time. Or running towards a goal. Just running. The next big step for me was deciding to run a marathon (almost 10 years later). It wasn’t until I started running with other people, some of whom would become very best friends, that I really considered myself a runner. The amazing thing about running is you can do it anywhere, with anyone, with or without music. It’s empowering to know you can walk out the front door, wherever you are, and do something.
Rooting for you on this challenge! I really want to become a runner someday too and hopefully run a marathon. Right now I’m just taking my time since I don’t want to push myself to the point where I give up again. It helps having a partner or other people who are interested in doing it too.
Good for you! B and I have set a goal to do 2 5k’s this summer/fall, but with only 1 training run so far we have a looooong way to go.
In high school I was a nationally ranked pole vaulter. I also was a hurdler. I tell you this because I HATE TO RUN. I did then, I do now. I never have felt a “runners high” in my life. It’s a struggle to exercise every day. Don’t feel disappointed if you don’t become one of those people that can’t start their day without a run. It’s okay – some of us just force ourselves to exercise because it’s the healthy thing to do, even if we hate it!
YAY!
OK, let’s see, first it’s taken me 2.5 YEARS to get to the point I’m at now! That’s how long I’ve been working out on a regular basis for and it started with 30 minutes on the elliptical a day… So, it takes time for sure!
Running advice: WALK!
Do NOT think that you have to “run the whole way”. I think that is a mistake so many new runners (myself included) make. Running is HARD and it’s not just hard to do, it’s hard on our joints. Walking breaks are SO important and that’s why the C25K is such a great program!!
Also, take as many runs as possible outside. It’s so different then the treadmill and it will make you feel better!
Finally, give it time. Two months of steady running (3ish times a week) at least. It’s not something you love immediately. But once you’re there, it’s amazing!
Good luck dear! I’m cheering you on over here! XO
So after the 5K, how does a half marathon sound? ;-)
Running is such a great sport. Honestly, the runner’s high is one of the best things ever!
I want to be a runner so badly, but I’m not really sure why it doesn’t seem to work for me. Maybe once I lose some weight doing other things I’ll find some joy in it; until then, it’s other sources of activity for me.
That’s exactly what I used for my first 5k – one of those online beginning training guides – and it really worked – i was able to do it!! The first month was pretty brutal but it started getting easier after that. I ran 2 5k’s and then stopped running…it never stuck with me…I think my body just isn’t designed for it :)
Congrats on deciding to make being active a priority in your life. I am on the same boat, doing all that I can to not only be healthier, but get my body “baby ready.” It’s funny how much harder being active becomes as one gets older.
I was an athlete in high school, but once I started college and joined the work force working out fell to the back burner. You are right about one thing though, being active (and working out) should be about a lifestyle change not a means to an end.
I once read that it takes 2 weeks to make an activity part of your routine. If you create a schedule for running and stick with it consistently for 2 weeks, you’ll be much more likely to continue to do it. I made it my goal to run for 30 minutes everyday and the first few weeks were the hardest. After that, it was a piece of cake. I admire that you’re training for a race. My workouts have never had that as a goal, but I might be ready for that now.
Couch to 5k is a great program–I’ve done it a couple times before, sometimes getting shin splints so then I’d have to stop. I’ve stopped and started running several times over the past few years. Right now I’m in an “on again” phase, and I seem to be doing pretty well. I’ve increased my run-able mileage and I’m pretty comfortable with it, I’m just trying to keep pushing further. My key to success has been knowing that it’s okay to walk. You don’t have to run non-stop. I take lots of short walk breaks here and there and I’ve found that it’s helped immensely. I’m not going to win any races that way, but I don’t care too much about that.
Also, having dogs is a great motivator–I have no choice but to walk them anyway and they prefer it when I run so they can trot a bit faster. :)
When I did Getting Healthy, I fell back in love with working out. The key is to find something that you don’t mind doing / like to do.
good luck with the running,
i have been meaning to start a more concrete running schedule.
I actually really didn’t like C25K, mostly because I was on a treadmill and I hated scrolling up and down the speed so often. I actually found that I can run for a little while (2-3 minutes) but just not very fast. I didn’t like that C25K kept forcing me to slow down when I wasn’t ready, or speed up when I wasn’t ready. The training schedules you linked to look much more like what I’d like to do.
Right now I’m using a training schedule out of Self Magazine, which also mixes in cross-training and strength training. I haven’t followed it to a T but I can definitely feel like I’ve improved.
I don’t know if you are an iPhone user or not — if you are, Runkeeper is a great app for tracking your runs, and you can set the intervals that you use in C25k so you don’t have to keep looking at a watch.
Also, I highly recommend reading Running for Mortals. It is SO inspirational and really talks about what it is to be a “runner” (spoiler: it means getting from point A to point B whether it is walking, jogging, running, skipping…)
So excited for you! My number one suggestion as someone just coming off the Disabled List? Listen to your body? Push yourself just enough but not too much so as to not injure yourself for good!
And make sure you have proper running shoes + good music =) That will make a world of difference.
Thrilled that you’re doing your first 5k! =) Go KYLA GO!
Kyla, I can totally relate to this post! I feel much the same way about running. I even avoid doing it because I feel self-conscious about being bad at it! Silly. In our town they have running groups for beginners, with the goal being 5k. I figured that if I make it more of a social thing with other beginners than I’m more likely to have a positive experience with it, and maybe make some friends! Maybe you can try something like that?
I kind of go back and forth with the whole active thing. When I’m in the groove, I AM ON IT, but if I fall off the wagon, it is so hard for me to get back on.
YAY KYLA! This is so amazing, really. C25K is what got me started running a few years back and i’ve been at it ever since. It’s a great program that really helps you to notice all of the little accomplishments and makes you feel good about running instead of defeated. :)
Four weeks ago I started going to the gym EVERY. DAY. Monday through Friday, i’m there for an hour and a half running, lifting, rowing, playing basketball… you name it. It’s been tough on days when i’m sore or when I can’t muster up the motivation to get my butt down there, but I always feel so much better after a good stretch and a workout.
GO YOU! I know it’s so hard to start, but you’re going to be A Runner in no time. <3
I’ve been trying to run as well. I have a couple friends who completed the Couch to 5K program and raved about, but I’m attempting it at my own speed. I started running in January and was struggling to make it one mile. Now, six months later I’m able to run 2 miles without stopping, or I can do three miles with some walking mixed in. I find the biggest factor for how well I run each day is determined by what I’ve had to eat. If I eat well then I have more energy and can run farther (obviously, haha). Good luck with your program!
Ooo – so many people hopping on couch to 5K! Today is my first run of week four!
I also need to get back on the biking to work bandwagon…
I’m actually re-starting couch to 5k this week. I did it last year and made it to week five but got hurt. Running is hard! It’s way more mental than physical. I highly recommend the program – it’s simple and it gives you nine weeks to get there… very, very reasonable.
Good for you, love! I’ve heard good things about that program. I’m not a runner, nor have I ever been. I do walk but that’s as fast as I go and I’m ok with that. I am in awe of some of our running friends, they are truly inspiring!
I was an athlete all my life, but now that I’m not consistently playing on a team and I’m married with a full-time job with a crazy schedule I’ve gotten pretty out of shape. I’d say I’m in a similar situation as you at this point because my main problem is finding the time to make exercise a regular part of my routine.
I’ve done the Couch to 5k program before and it really works. I don’t know if you have an iPhone, but there is a great app for it that is worth the few bucks it costs.
Just you saying that you’re doing this is inspiring me to try again!
I LOVE to run! I had to quit when I got pregnant and getting back into shape is something I’m really looking forward too after the baby is born.
We are definitely in it together! I’m on the third week of the couch to 5K plan and like you said – while I don’t love it yet, I at least have a plan.
You picked a GREAT program to get started with, so congrats on an awesome start. I did C25K as well & loved it. (ok sometimes hated it, but mostly love) I’ve actually blogged about it some so if you need someone to suffer with, *ahem*, I mean share with I’ve been there. Here are my stories…
The Program: http://heyasparky.wordpress.com/2010/01/23/c25k/
My First Race: http://heyasparky.wordpress.com/2010/03/01/my-first-race/
A Big Goal: http://heyasparky.wordpress.com/2010/05/06/running-the-city-of-bridges/
Ah, you didn’t bother me one bit! I love to talk about running! I try to keep it at a minimum on my blog because I know it bores some people to tears, so it was fun to have an excuse to chat about it with you!
Good luck with your training! I think it really helps to sign up for some race. I do best when I am running in preparation for a race. They are so much fun and it’s a great feeling of accomplishment to cross that finish line!
I will say it’s easier for me to fit running in since I am single. No one is sitting at home, waiting for me to get home from my long runs. No one is waiting for me to get home on week nights so we can eat dinner together. It makes a big difference. So when/if I meet my Mister, my running schedule is going have to really change. But I look forward to that day (and really sort of hope he’s a runner, too!).
Happy running, my dear! OH, and I think it’s important to note that even though I consider myself a ‘runner’, there are MANY days where it’s an effort to put those shoes on and get out the door. It’s still a mental battle at times for me, and it probably always will be. But my strategy on those days is to say, “Self, you will never regret going out for a run today. But you will regret it if you don’t.” Knowing about the possibility if future guilt over not going on the run keeps me from skipping my runs on those un-inspired days. :)
Oh wow, great minds definitely think alike – becoming a runner is definitely on my “I’m going to DO this” list for this year!! I just found a yoga buddy too so I’m going to start that this weekend – I think having someone to be accountable to other than yourself is a huge motivator. As for running, I’m just going to start Google calendaring it and making it part of my evening
“plans” 2 nights a week for now. As in “no I can’t hang out until after 7 tonight; I’m running first”. I think it’s the same with any new task – repetition until it becomes habitual :)
Also, I’m not sure if you’re aware of Christine’s lovely blog, I’ve only recently found it but she is a runner too (marathons, I think) and blogs a lot about her journey as a runner, as well as yummy vegan food, her dog, and her husband-of-sorts. I think you’d really enjoy each others’ blogs! http://christinehennessey.blogspot.com/
Hey Kyla,
I’ve never been “A Runner” but when I lived in my old apartment, I used to go jogging down at the underpass (a massive long park type area) nearby and found that while it started out as a means to an end, when I was going every day I found it really enjoyable and sort of addictive. Lots of people say that exercise is addictive and finally I could see what they meant. Of course, I had a lot more free time then than you have now, but my advice would be to keep it up consecutively. In fact, I recently bought skates so I could practice for roller derby tryouts, and my dad gave me similar advice – “It’s not enough to get inspired and have one or two crazy long sessions a week, you have to do at least a LITTLE, even if it’s twenty minutes, every single day, because that’s how you get good.” And I would add, because that’s how you feel good about it, too.
Sorry for waffling on there!
You go girl. I have tons of respect for you for doing this. I know I couldn’t!
Couch to 5k is definitely on my list, too. I actually started it on June 1st but need to restart based on pure laziness…
I’m doing this program: http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml
What I love to do and will do willingly are go for bike rides (big goal this summer is to bike to Bird’s Hill and maybe St. Norbert Farmers’ Market) and go to cardio box or boot camp at the Y!
Hi Kyla, I found you through Lemon and Raspberry and will be adding you to my blog reader!
I can really identify with this post, I’d love to be a runner but have bad memories feeling decidedly queasy when made to run cross country at school. You’ve made me think, though, that perhaps I should give it another go. I might try jogging around the little village I live in instead of the usual morning walk with my doggie. I think she’d like it more and it’d wear her out quicker! Will you take your puppies running to help drain some of that energy? BTW, have you see The Dog Whisperer? Cesar Milan is a genius!