As many of my may have read on my Facebook page, I’ve started running again. I’ve always enjoyed running, but was not really motivated enough to put myself on a schedule. Well, that day has come, my friends! Let the insanity begin!
A few weeks ago, I made a deal (or in my mind, a promise) with Elizabeth to run a half marathon in Virginia in October. I made a deal with her that if she started training, I would also train after my semester was over and come run it with her when the time came. I felt this was a reasonable goal. I had about 6 months to meet this goal. What the HELL was I thinking?!
I downloaded an app, Couch to Half Marathon, which has a pretty tight running schedule to get one from off their couch to a half marathon in just 12 weeks. Right now, I have about 18 weeks to train myself to get up to that kind of mileage. This schedule has me running 5 days out of the week, increasing my distance after the first few days. Last night, was my first night that I’ve gone for a run in over a year. Let me tell you, running is not for the faint of heart. Let’s recount my steps.
According to my schedule, I needed to run 2 miles for the day. I got a late start due to Red Line delays (Shocker!) and needing to go grocery shopping. I got on my gear, started up my Map My Run app, and hit the pavement. I started out at a slow, comfortable pace. I did need to slow down and walk a few times because I’m not used to doing this and I need to build my stamina. I pushed forward as best I could. When all was said and done, I jogged/walked 2.2 miles in 32:25 and got home just in time for Jeopardy. Not a bad start, if I do say so myself.
I had agreed to make dinner that night, which I did after my run. I was hot, sweaty, tired, and sore. Oh, SO SORE! I was able to take about a 15 minute break before I started dinner, but all I wanted to do was take a shower and a nap. I took my well earned shower, ate dinner, and got in that nap! Jim woke me up at 11:00 to go to bed, and I slept through the night.
This morning is when my body decided it was going to revolt. All I can say is I ache. I ache everywhere. I ache in places I forgot I could ache. My thighs are screaming at me. My back is kicking me in the ass, which hurts as well! But, I will keep moving forward. I will march on and keep training. I will run that half marathon, even if it kills me! I’m just praying it doesn’t, but it does have shifty eyes and I don’t trust it...
What pushes you? Any suggestions for a first time (sort of) runner? Let me know what you think!
