 |
| Source |
I am two weeks into my couch to 5k program, and am surprised by myself. No, I can't say I have quite developed a love for running, nor do I think I ever will. I don't necessarily enjoy my runs, but I do enjoy the 30 minutes to myself to process the day and to work off some energy. I am also surprised by myself that it is actually getting easier. For some reason I just assumed it wouldn't.
My first day on the program was not fun. In fact, the first 30 second running interval was killer! This week I worked up to 90 second running intervals. Now, my 45 second running intervals seem like a breeze, and I just mentally prepare myself for each 90 second run. Next week I start running 3 minutes at a time. I am scared. I know this seems like peanuts to some of you, but running 3 minutes continuously will be reason for celebration for me. I might die. In fact, I am very certain there are going to be times I think I won't live to make it back home. I have just kept telling myself that I don't need to run the fastest...I just need to complete.
Now, onto frustrations. Some of you avid runners may be able to help me with this. First, I feel that I have been going on two weeks of running and making better diet choices, yet not a pound has dropped from the scale. I have been measuring inches and haven't had much change there either. What gives? I am not a patient person, and I need small glimpses of motivation to keep me going. I can't say that I have ever really combined diet AND exercise in order to tone up and shed a few pounds, so I naturally thought that I would be dropping weight like crazy. I know that I am building muscle, but when do results start to become obvious? I just keep telling myself that if I stick with it I will see results.
Next, (again for you avid runners), do I need to buy a new pair of "running" shoes. I have a pair of Pumas that I think are considered cross-trainers. Is this sufficient, or no? I don't like to spend a lot of money, so if I can use what I have I am more than thrilled. I guess I am curious if buying shoes specific for running will actually make a huge difference or not.
Lastly, what should be eaten before a run and after a run? How much water should I be drinking right before? I worry too much water will give me side cramps, and I don't' know what to eat afterwards that will make the most of my run and not completely make it worthless.
Clearly, I am a novice at all of this. I wish that running was as simple as putting on a pair of shoes and taking off for 30 minutes. The more I have been reading, the more I realize that I might be making things harder for myself by not fully preparing the right way.
At this point I am 25% of the way through the program and I am impressed by myself. I was actually more excited that Belle grabbed my headphones yesterday and said "Mom, I want to run with you." I have always been a strong non-running, anti-exerciser, but it's clear that my girls are watching what I am doing. I may not like this running business much, but Belle's comment makes it all worth it.
4 comments:
Go get yourself some shoes. Otherwise you might end up injured. Seriously, go to Gazelle or Striders and have them fit you...they have cheaper ones to more expensive. Just get good shoes. Believe me on this one, cost shouldn't matter when it comes to good shoes. :)
Great job girl keep up the awesome work. Now to answer your questions: 4 weeks for you to notice change, also start some weight training. Next, go and get fitted for a new pair of running shoes, I went to McSports. You'll need to invest in a good sports bra too... Drink lots of water, get used to drinking only water green tea is ok. Stick to a high protein, lots of veggies & fruits... And whole grains :) Xox - Ashley Whaley
I am not an avid runner, but I sort of have been in the past. It can take a long time to see results on the scale and inches, I'd say a couple of months (if you're not following weight watchers or something). Whenever I eat healthy on my own, I never lose weight as quickly as I do while on WW. Don't set goals on the scale, set goals with time - 3 minute runs without walking, etc. You'll notice the biggest results if you incorporate cross training and weights for sure. Side aches can actually be gas. Keep that in mind if you get them and think about what you ate, not what you drank. Dairy and veggies can contribute to them. Pressing on your side vs stretching it is usually helpful. Okay. enough from me. You're doing great, Betsy!
Hi There!! I've been an avid runner for over 10 years now. I started when I was 42 and have not stopped! First and most important thing to do is get yourself some good running shoes...seriously...old Puma's are probably why you are not enjoying your runs. Second,the pounds will start to come off the more you work at it. Once you are running at longer intervals without stopping, you are hitting a heart rate that will start to burn more fat and calories. It can take up to a month before "you" start to see changes in your body...six weeks for others to start to notice. Stick with it...you're doing great! Third, make sure you hydrate, but don't over hydrate. Drink some water before you start and carry a water bottle and sip water as you go. Limit the amount of food you eat right before running, but a few hours before you might want to have some carbs like half a bagel or a low fat energy bar (be careful it's not a sugar filled bar but something with protein and carbs but low fat). After you run, eating protein is a good way to boost your muscle development. Fourth, and most importantly...running is actually 90% mental ability and 10% physical. Condition your mind to keep going, set small goals as you run (don't stop until you get to a tree you spotted up ahead or a streetlight, etc.) I hope you learn to LOVE running the way I and many others do. Just getting out there and doing something is a huge step toward being a healthier and happier body/mind!
Post a Comment