Running In Slow Motion
I’m a runner. Not an actual runner. A remedial runner. More like
the class below the remedial class runner. Does that still count? Let’s just
say my small fits of running are not because I am being chased, but because I
am exercising. That says something.
I started the Couch-to-5K program with a friend. We only
started yesterday so my running probably totals less than 10 minutes, but it
was still running so I’m going to take it. It was harder and easier to get
started than I thought.
Whoever came up with the C2K program did not really know how much couch I have been on lately. If this was truly meant for my kind of couch people, it would start with a couch-to-couch and include really bad reality TV watching. Then it would gradually build up to couch-to-recliner, couch-to-standing, couch-to-walking, and finally couch-to-5K.
I thought the running bits would be easier—I was wrong.
I also anticipated I would be discouraged after the first day and want to quit,
but I feel good about this. A lot of that has to do with having a “running” buddy.
But as they say, the hardest things in life don’t come easy.
Is that what they say? If so, it’s
stupid. Of course things that are hard are not easy.
Confession: I am writing this while eating a piece of pizza
and drinking a milkshake.
A healthy lifestyle doesn’t happen overnight, people.
*New Beginnings was a writing prompt on Studio 30+
*New Beginnings was a writing prompt on Studio 30+
*
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5 comments
I totally agree Erin - - a gradual running program is best. couch to edge of couch, even. then couch to standing up. that sort of thing. But good for you!! Running makes you feel terrific . . . even if you eat a pizza and drink a milkshake afterwards!
ReplyDeleteC25K is a good program, but with my bad knees running isn't an option. I tried using it by changing up my walking pace and that worked well until I twisted an ankle. I can't seem to walk and think at the same time. Good luck with your running!
ReplyDeleteChocolate milk is supposed to be a good recovery drink after exercise. I'd imagine a chocolate shake would be equally good for you.
Most times when I am running I am pounding a positive message mantra into my head. Yeaaaahhh... trying todo some counteractive brainwashing to undo all the negative slamming I put myself throughout the day. I haven't been running in a long time. A very long time. So long I cannot call myself a runner. I do however have other activities that involve keeping me off my couch. And having a buddy is key in remaining faithful to your new active life.
ReplyDeleteRemember all it takes is 21 days of doing something in order to call it a new habit!
A few years ago, I started running after over a decade of couch. My knees informed me that they were not okay with it, and they were really rude about it. So for me, the best park of this post (it's all good, of course) is the part with the pizza and milkshake! :)
ReplyDeleteI used to run, though I was never, ever remotely a great runner. I'm not even sure I could call myself a 'runner.' But I recently started the C25K program, too, in order to try and get into it. I am on Week 4 and it is getting easier ... sort of? I think you're right about them not truly taking the couch aspect into account because there are some pretty big leaps in those weeks. I will likely break those down a little, otherwise I know I'll give up. I really wish I had a running buddy, I think that's key. I might follow your progress and have a virtual buddy, complete with pizza and milkshakes. ; )
ReplyDelete