Photos from Last Week's Komen 5K

my face, painted

after the race at the lake house

the tags on my back - in celebration of Lillian Hunter & in memory of Evelyn Kaechle

850 Calories!

I had an amazing day today. First of all, we went to the doctor to have my daughter's wrist x-rayed after our bike incident. No broken bones! Yeah!

After I dropped her off at our co-op, I went and worked out HARD for 40 minutes with my personal trainer. We spent about 30 minutes on my legs and did some new exercises that were incredibly hard. Then we did about 10 minutes of HARD work on my arms!

Next, he took me on a bike ride. Part of the time we were on a bike/jogging trail and part of the time we were on the edge of a fairly busy street. He was teaching me about cadence and proper form. With cadence, you are supposed to choose a steady rhythm to pedal. Then, you change gears to stay with that cadence! You should pick a pace you could do for hours. We rode for 40 minutes and covered almost 7 miles.

After that, I taught my two classes at co-op and then we headed to AHG, American Heritage Girls, which is very similar to Girl Scouts. While my daughter was there, I went running with another mom! We ran for 30 minutes which I'm guessing was about 2 miles.

After AHG, we went to Christian roller skating night with some AHG friends. We were gone from before 8 am until about 8:30 pm! Long day!!!

But, it was worth it! I burned almost 850 calories! The most I've ever burned before was 600. And, I actually didn't eat that much. I had to 'make' myself eat dinner and had grapes for dessert.

I did have to stop and buy some ALEVE on the way to the skating rink as my hips & legs were starting to ache. And, no, I didn't skate! I was tired!

I soaked in the tub when I got home and it's a little before 10 and I'm getting ready to go to sleep.

(Countdown to Half Marathon: 169 days)
(Today's Training: weights (40 mins); bike (40 mins/7 miles); run (30 mins/2 miles)

Bike Wreck!

Yes, I just got my new bike on Friday and I had a wreck today.

My daughter and I were riding our bikes around the neighborhood tonight. We were both in the street and she decided to ride on the sidewalk. She went up one driveway and I sped up a little to pull alongside her. Well, she changed her mind and didn't tell me. She zipped down the next short driveway and "BAM"... right into the side of me! We both tumbled to the ground. I landed on the street and she landed somewhat on top of me.

I got a 2 inch long scrape on my forearm and a small scrape on my wrist. My daughter hurt her wrist, though we hope it'll be fine. She broke her other wrist last November, so I hope that isn't the case this time!

I also dinged up my bike just a bit. The wrapping on the handlebars has a little chunk taken out of it. That's the only damage I've seen so far. I rode the bike home after the wreck and it seemed to be working fine. I guess I'll take it in and have it checked out, though.

Sorry I still haven't taken photos of my bike! Someone asked what kind it is. It is a Scott Speedster S30. I bought it at a chain (Sun and Ski Sports) which is nice because I can take it into any of their stores at any time and have it checked out. Also, they honor their regular 30 day return/90 day credit policy... though they said it was only if it hadn't been in a big wreck.

I worked out a lot today, but I ate really poorly. I think it was emotional eating. My arm was really stinging for about an hour and I was just upset to have crashed my brand new bike. I've eaten quite a bit of junk today. And, that was after burning almost 600 calories today! Yuck! I'll have to get back on track tomorrow. And, I'm hoping my arm doesn't get too stiff and I can stick with my workouts!

(Countdown: 171 days until Half Marathon)
(Today's workout: ran 3.6 miles, upper/lower strength training, 2 mile bike ride, 600 calories BURNED!)

Breaking in My New Bike!

After my 5K on Saturday, I drove up to our lake house. I thought I'd shower, eat some lunch, and then have a nap, but I ended up going out on the jet skis with my husband. Then, my daughter wanted to go bike riding, so I hopped on and we went for a ride!

I just got my bike on Friday, so Saturday was my first ride. I told my daughter that her bike is no comparison to mine. (She's 9.) My wheels are so much bigger and I have gears to shift through! I had to go really slow and keep stopping for her - especially on the hills. We rode almost 4 miles. Then, I went in and took a nap.

I went on another ride Sunday afternoon. This time by myself. I ended up going almost 7 miles. I have quite a few hills and enjoyed challenging myself! And, I enjoyed 'flying' DOWN the hills.

If you've been reading my blog for awhile, you know that I went on my first bike rides in MANY years this summer when I borrowed a bike while in New Mexico. That time, my neck and my 'seat' hurt during and afterwards.

This time, my neck still hurt. But, I took the bike in today and had it readjusted. Hopefully it'll be better! And, I got some gel shorts that my saleslady recommended. They were GREAT! I rode 2 days in a row with minimal discomfort! She had recommended a $100 pair, but I told her I didn't need that much yet. So, her 2nd recommendation was on sale for $45. Much better! And, they work great.

I forgot to take photos but I'll try to do it soon!

(Countdown: 172 days until Half Marathon)
(Today's Exercise: nothing ... We ran errands from 3 - 7:30 and then had to do dinner and finish up some school work. There just wasn't time - or I didn't make time.)

Amazing 5K PR!!! (aka...a Blessing of Being SLOW!)

Yesterday was my 2nd 5K since finishing C25K (Couch to 5K) in August. My 5K in September was a small, local event. But, this 5K was HUGE! It was the Houston Komen Race for the Cure... and we had over 32,000 (yes!) walkers and runners. I was amazed!

I went to the race by myself and, as I'd mentioned earlier, was worried about parking. Well, I actually found a parking garage really easily which was just about 2-3 blocks away. It was still dark as I walked to the park area, but there were 1,000s of runners/walkers out, too, so I wasn't nervous.

I got to the park and there were dozens of tents giving out freebies. My first thought was, 'how can runners be picking up freebies before the race? where would they keep them?' But, then I saw the wagons and all of the others who were there just to walk, raise money, and have a great time. So, I understood. I only got a free small towel because it is allergy season for me and I forgot to bring anything! I sometimes run with a water bottle, so I knew I'd be OK.

As I walked around, I was amazed that I started getting quite emotional. This race is to raise money to fight breast cancer. There were a lot of survivors there - either to walk or run. And, there were people walking around with pink signs on their back saying "in memory of" or "in celebration of." I saw at least one that said "in memory of 'my mom'" and one that said "in celebration of myself" along with some other names. I saw a booth where you could make signs, and I walked over and grabbed two.

My grandmother, Evelyn Kaechle, had breast cancer in the mid-80's. She was treated successfuly and was cancer-free until 2003. She ended up with cancer 'all over' her body, which they beleived stemmed from her earlier breast cancer. She lost her battle in 2003 at the age of 88. I raced "in memory of" my grandmother, Evelyn Kaechle.

My husband's grandmother, Lillian Hunter, had breast cancer, too. Her cancer was in 2000 and she is a survivor. I proudly raced for her, too.

After I finished writing their names, it was hard for me to control my emotions. One of the volunteers pinned the signs on my back as I tried to gain my composure. I was thinking of both of my grandmothers and also thinking about what so many who were there at the race must be going through. Some had signs of people who had died this year. A group had signs of someone who had died just last month. How hard this must be for them! And, at the same time, they knew they were there helping to raise money to fight this disease.

After I finisihed my sign, I lined up at a port-o-potty. The line wasn't very long and I still had about an hour's wait! After that, I decided I needed to figure out where to line up.

The park area is huge and I wasn't sure where to go. I saw another couple and one of them had on a blue tag (like me) which means you are running the competitive race. I asked if she knew where she was going. She didn't, but I decided to stick with her and we could figure it out together.

She dropped her husband off at the "non-competitive" area and then we found our way to the "competitive" area. We thought there would be signs showing paces so we knew where to line up. There weren't, but we both wanted to be fairly far back. She's a lot faster than me - she was expecting to run an 8 minute mile.

A few minutes before the start, another lady came up to me and asked if I was "I M Smiley." It was BABHONORS! I knew she'd be at the race, but I was shocked she'd found me! I had my profile shirt on "Believe and Achieve" and she recognized me! We talked for the few minutes before the gun went off. During that time, she told me she usually runs about a 14-15 minute mile. (I think.) I told her that my last 5K was about 15 minutes/mile and I was hoping to go as fast as a 14 minute mile. Actually, my goal has been to break 45 minutes.

The starting gun went off and took a good 1-2 minutes before we got to start walking. With such a large crowd, everyone basically walks until they reach the starting line. When I stepped on the starting line, I started my 'slow' jog along with the crowd. About a minute later, I realized taht BAB was beside me! So, we talked a tiny bit.

I asked if she'd started the timer on her watch because I'd forgotten! She had and was able to give me the information so I knew approximately how to adjust my timer. We kept jogging along together. At one point, she told us we'd hit the 1 mile mark! (It wasn't marked on the course, but she had a Garmin.) I believe it was at about 12:30! I couldn't believe it! Ive only once broken a 14 minute mile!

She kept running and I kept struggling to keep up. But, I was doing it! I kept thinking I should tell her to go on without me if she wanted, but I kept trying to stay up with her, too.

We walked for about a minute at mile 1 and about another minute at mile 2. I couldn't believe it when we hit the 2nd mile at about 26 minutes or so. How could I be running so fast? And, this was the hardest I've ever pushed myself. Could I keep it up???

The last mile, like my other 5K, was the hardest. I didn't think I could keep up this pace. I got a stitch in my side for a minute, but was able to breathe through it. We had to go under an overpass and there was a pretty steep 'hill' on the other side. We both walked, as did most of those around us.

We got closer and closer to the end and I kept thinking "I can't do this!" But, a voice inside of me kept telling me I could. I actually thought about what how my sister-in-law would be telling me that I COULD do it if she were beside me. I kept running!

The finish line, even when BAB told me we were at 2.8 miles, seemed so far away. When I run at home, I always get a burst of energy near the end. I wanted the burst, but I could barely go at the pace we were going!

We passed the 'finish' line for survivors. We heard the lady on the speaker talking about the survivors crossing the finish line and the various names that we were running 'in memory of' or 'in honor of.' I kept running. I finally saw the actually finish line. I stuck next to BAB and we CROSSED THE LINE! What an incredible feeling. "What was our time?" I asked. 40:40... 40:40... I couldn't believe it! I'd wanted to break 45 minutes and I'd made it in 40:40!!! WOW!

We walked on. It was really crowded and I desperately wanted water. Where's the water??? I finally saw some volunteers and I had to backtrack a little to grab a water bottle. Ahh!! Then, I saw LOTS of volunteers ahead of us with water bottles.

I walked next to BAB and was trying to talk to her and thank her for her help in 'pushing' me, but I could barely talk. And, I could barely walk! My equillibrium was off and I kept walking sideways.

We got to a long row of tables where they had 1,000s of Luna bars, bananas and apples. I grabbed a banana and an apple. Afterwards, I thought that was kind of greedy of me and I hope they had plenty! But, at the time I was just wanting some nourishment.

I walked with BAB and went to meet her husband. She introduced me and we talked for a few minutes before I left. My family was already at our lake house and I had a long drive ahead of me.

I really felt on top of the world! You should have heard me as I talked with my sister-in-law. I was so giddy with happiness! I couldn't believe that I'd run that fast. That I'd beat my own PR by so much... almost 6 minutes! And, that is a blessing of being slow. Who else can take almost 6 minutes off their 5K time?

I'm feeling great and ready to run some more!

Ugh....I had photos to load, but I always have problems! I think my camera is set to take too high and the files are too big! Trying to add photos...

(Days to Half Marathon: 173)
(Today's Training: 6.9 miles on bike)
(Yesterday's Training: 3.1 mile race and 4 miles on bike)

September Reviews & October Goals

SEPTEMBER REVIEW:
1. Run 1st 5K (since 2003) on Sept 11th. - GOAL MET!!!
2. Run 'my' lake 5K in under 46 minutes. (currently at 49 mins 20 secs) - GOAL MET!!!
3. Run 1 mile at 14 mins 30 secs. (fastest current run was 15 mins 30 secs) - GOAL MET!!! Actually ran 1 mile in UNDER 13 mins!!!
4. Buy a bicycle! - GOAL MET!!!
5. Lose 4 pounds (so 143). GOAL MET!!!  EXACTLY!
6. Get back in the habit of drinking 8 glasses of water a day. (So, let's say 20 days this month.) - Goal NOT met
7. Start logging food again. (15 days this month) - Goal NOT met
8. Run 8 miles per week, swim 500 yards per week, and 'bicycle' (probably at gym) 4 miles a week. Goal NOT met - Did get in most of my running, but only 1 short swim and didn't buy bike until Friday.

Overall, I'm really happy with my results. I met 5 of 8 goals!

OCTOBER GOALS (crazy month, so goals shorter)

1. Lose 3.5 pounds - that would put me at 139.5!
2. Run a long run of at least 5.5 miles.
3. Run a total of 30 miles.
4. Ride bike at least once per week.
5. Have one bike ride of at least 10 miles.
6. Do strength training twice a week for upper AND lower.

I'm not going to make any goals about logging food or drinking water as I know that's probably not going to happen. I would also like to start taking swim lessons or join some kind of swim practice, but I don't think that will happen this month, either. For now, I'll concentrate on running, cycling, and losing more pounds!

Learning to Run My Own Race

I  picked up my bike tonight. Yes! It took almost 2 hours as I also needed a helmet and some other equipment. We didn't get home until late, so I'll be riding it tomorrow!

I also am very nervous about my 5K tomorrow. It is further away then the others I've ran. I'll need to leave the house by 6 am. And, I need to find parking, find the line up area, the bathrooms, etc. I know I'll be fine, but I wish I had someone to ride with!

I've been thinking a lot about speed and I've been asking a lot of questions. So, as I head into tomorrow's race, I thought I'd leave you with a comment I just left on a blog.

Thanks for your comment on my blog about speed, age, etc. Yes, I have gotten a lot faster. My first timed mileage was at a 17 min 30 sec pace. I ran one mile this week in 13 mins 57 secs. So, that's quite an improvement in about 6-7 weeks!

I guess I have been comparing myself to others. I don't even know their ages or background, but I see we started C25K at about the same time and they are so much faster!

I guess I was also disappointed on my first 5K to be 'so slow' instead of just enjoying it. I was running, but the walkers were beating me. I have another 5K tomorrow and I don't want that same experience. Maybe I should have not signed up for 5Ks until I was more comfortable... or faster!

Anyway, you are right and I need to just relax and not be so competitive. I am setting new PRs almost every run - in one way or the other (distance, time, etc). It's amazing! And, I shouldn't keep feeling like it isn't enough.

I have a 5K tomorrow and I'm going to try to just 'sit back' (well,run!) and enjoy it... no matter what the outcome. Whether I beat my last time or not. Whether I'm running with walkers or runners. I'm running to have fun and to get in shape, so I need to not worry about comparing myself to the other runners!

(Countdown to Half Marathon: 175 days)
(Today's Workout: REST day!)

No Longer Overweight...Yeah!

I had an incredible workout with my trainer today. We did upper body and core and I was shaking when we were done. In fact, it was hard for me to redo my ponytail and put on some makeup!

When I went in, I told my trainer that I had lost 2.5 pounds this week. He asked if I wanted to redo my BMI & % Body Fat & I said "yes!" I loved the results... it showed I'm no longer 'overweight.' I now have a 'normal' body weight. YES!!! (Note: "Normal" BMI for women is 20-24.9)

Here's my stats:
1 month: weight: 154.5 bmi: 26.9 % body fat: 35.2
2 months: weight: 152 bmi: 26.3 % body fat: 34.0
4 months: weight: 143 bmi: 24.8 % body fat: 30.1

I know the machine they use at the gym is probably not super accurate, but it sure is showing that I'm getting healthy and losing weight and FAT!

Hmmm... 30.1% of my 143 pounds is fat. That's about 43 pounds. I was at 54 pounds of body fat. So, this shows I've lost 11 pounds of fat. You know, I think that 'machine' is really just looking at my weight and height and not really measuring anything. But, still! I'm getting fat and I'm standing by the 'fact' that I'm no longer overweight! What a great feeling!

(Countdown: 176 days until Half Marathon)
(Today's Training: 10 minutes on elliptical and 60 minutes upper/core with trainer)

Buying a Bike...a Short Tutorial

Tonight my daughter and I went to a sporting store and I bought a bike!!! Unfortunately, they didn't have it in stock. But, it should be at the store on Friday. So, I'll pick up my new bike on Friday.

A few weeks ago, I spent at least an hour talking to one of the sales people. She taught me quite a bit about bikes and how to buy one. And, I ended up going with her recommendation (based on what I said I wanted the bike for - sprint tris and possible longer distances later). I bought the same bike that she bought 8 months ago!

On to the lesson...
My saleslady went over all of this, but I also found a great video (actually part of a series of videos) by Googling "derailleurs how to buy a bike". The videos feature Eric of Spin City Cycling in Austin, Texas. You can try the link HERE.

You have two derailleurs on your geared bicycle. They move the chains up and down the cogs when you shift gears. The most common manufacturer of derailleurs is a company called Shimano. There are 5 levels of quality. As you go up in quality, they derailleurs have a lower weight and perform slightly better.

The levels are (these are the notes I got at the store):
Sora - entry level
Tiagra - slightly better
105 - good mid level components & price
Ultegra - excelleng quality, weight & performance
Dura Ace - superior, usually found on $3,000+ road bikes

The rear derailleurs is usually the nicest piece of equipment on a bike. It is where you do most of your shifting. The front derailleur is often a step down in quality from the rear derailleur.

After looking at the various road bikes, my sales lady recommended one that had a 105 rear derailleur and one with an Ultegra rear derailleur. I ended up paying more and getting the Ultegra.

I do have a 30 day return policy, which helps a little! It's kind of stressful buying a bike after so many years! And, I can actually get store credit for 90 days. I don't plan on returning it, but it is nice to know I can if it doesn't work out!

I hope to share photos in just a few days! I can't wait to start riding!!!

Also, I am new to this, so please let me know if I made any mistakes! I'm just trying ot pass along what I've been learning.

(Countdown: 178 days until Half Marathon)
(Today's workout: briskly walked for 30 minutes while daughter rode bike)

Becoming a Runner

This is a post about learning to run with C25K (couch to 5K) and SparkPeople (SP). I posted it on my SP blog. Maybe it'll encourage someone... and it is a great reminder to myself of how far I've come in less than 4 months!

I started C25K in June and graduated in August. I started running 3 miles during the last couple of weeks of C25K, though it took me almost 12 weeks to complete the program! I basically repeated weeks 1-3.

Anyway, I DID learn to run for 30 minutes using C25K (And, believe me, it was HARD to run for 60 seconds and then 3 minutes at first. I have NEVER been an athlete, I'm 40 years old, and I had JUSt got 'off the couch.'). BUT, I was no where close to 3 miles in 30 minutes! I'm still not! I was running about a 17 min 30 sec mile, so I wasn't even making it TWO miles in 30 mins! But, my endurance kept increasing.

Yesterday, I ran my first sub-14 minute mile (barely). I keep getting faster, but even at that pace I wouldn't run much more than 2 miles in 30 minutes. And, my endurance keeps increasing! On Saturday, I ran 4.5 miles! It's still hard for me to believe that I (YES, I!) can run that far! (Or even that I'd want to.)

So, I hope this encourages you to keep at it and also to show you that not everyone will finish C25K running 3 miles in 30 minutes... actually, I think most people won't! But, you WILL become a runner. And, if you are like me, you'll be amazed at your own progress.

My Shoes (& Legs!) Logged 5 Miles Today

What a day! I ran 3.1 miles on the treadmill. I've never run that far on a treadmill. (I much prefer outdoors!) Anyway, I was a little frustrated that I had a 'goal' in mind and I wasn't getting there. I wanted to run a mile at a 14 min 17 sec pace like I did last week. Well, I'd run for a few minutes, and just 'have to' stop. I did this several times and it wasn't working for me.

So, then I decided to just keep going until I hit 2 miles. I would run some and walk some. I'd play with the speed.

A funny thing happened - it was actually pretty frustrating. I accidentally hit the "STOP" button on the treadmill! I kept pushing buttons, but couldn't get it to restart. So, I had to start back from "0" minutes. At least I had my HRM timer going AND I noted how far I'd already walked/ran.

I started up again and was getting near 2 miles. I decided I wanted to try ONE MORE TIME to run a mile. Maybe if I run faster I can do it? Then I don't have to run for 14+ minutes. Hmmm... So, I started running at a pace of 13 mins 57 secs. Could I possibly run a mile in under 14 minutes??? YES! I DID IT!

So, my total was 3.1 miles of running and walking. I did it in 47 minutes, which is really close to my 5K race 2 weeks ago of 46 mins 30 secs!

When we got home, my daughter was begging to go out riding on her new bike again. So, since I don't have a bike, I was 'forced' to walk/run again! We found a quiet street and I did some speed work! I was feelinig terrific! I even got my HR up to 195! We ended up going 1.9 miles. So, for the day, I totalled a little over 5 miles on my feet. And... I ended up burning over 600 calories. Wow!!!

I think I'm doing great on my way to my half marathon. I also have a 5K THIS weekend! I'm going to try to run on Thursday, too, and get my weekly mileage up near 10 miles. I've been averaging about 8 miles per week.

Countdown to My Half...180 Days

My sister-in-law and I chose a half marathon to run together. It is half a year away. 6 months. 180 days. It is on March 27th in Dallas, TX. My sister-in-law will still be running the HM in late November, too, but I'll just be running the 5K. I'm just not ready and I have a lot going on between then and now.

Unfortunately, though I felt my tummy troubles were over this morning, my stomach has hurt off and on all day. Right now, I'm sipping on an apple cider hoping the heat will help.

So, what did I do for "training" today? (Yep! I'm "in training!") I went for a walk with my daughter and our 2 chihuahuas. We probably walked about 3/4 of a mile. Not a lot, but I'm not the only one that needs to exercise! I need to get my daughter active, too. This is the first year she isn't in sports and we haven't been doing much.

After that, my daughter went for a bike ride while I walked at a pretty fast pace. Again, I think we went about 3/4 of a mile. I ran a short ways, but wasn't dressed to run and I have my 'speed' run on the treadmill tomorrow.

So, this is my plan for the week:
Sunday - I was sick :-(
Monday - light workout with daughter
Tuesday - speed work on treadmill plus a little strength training
Wednesday - walk while daughter rides bike
Thurdsay - workout w/trainer - upper & lower strength; 30 minute run
Friday - REST DAY
Saturday - 5K!!!

15 Pounds... GONE!

I can't believe it... I did it! I've now lost 15 pounds since June 1st.

I actually started SP a little over 2 years ago and am now done 19 pounds since my highest weight. One more pound and I'll have lost 20. It's so hard for me to believe!

I'm looking forward to going to see my mom and siblings in 3 weeks. They haven't seen me since I started this journey. It's hard to believe, but NO ONE has commented on my weight loss except those I'm actually telling! I have told my family, but I still can't wait for them to see me.

Now for the next 5 pounds... and then the final 3! That's right... I only have 8 more pounds to lose! From there, I'll see where I stand, but I'll be back to my high school weight! And, that has been my goal weight and the number I've been dreaming about for years. I'm going to make it!

Great Long Run... Now I'm Reconsider the Half

I had a GREAT long run today. My longest run before had been 3.5 miles which I've done 3 times in past 2 weeks. Today, I ran for 4.45 miles!!! It took 1 hour and 12 minutes, but it felt EASY all the way! And, I could have kept going, but my hubby needed to leave the house and I needed to get back to be with our daughter.

So, now I'm once again reconsidering the half marathon my sister-in-law will be running Nov 21st. I had decided to just do the 5K, but I could do so much more!!! But, can I do 13.1 miles... hmmm...

I think I'll see how the next few weeks go before I sign up. The cost will go up on Friday, but only $10. And, this way I hope to get in at least 2 more long runs and see how I'm going.

My goal next weekend: run 1 hour 30 minutes - that should be about 6 miles or maybe 5.75. That's almost halfway there! So, we'll see how it goes.

Working Out After Tendonitis Diagnosis

My doctor diagnosed me with tendonitis in my right wrist about a month ago. I've been taking it really easy with my wrist and sleeping in a splint. I've had good days & bad days, but it has been feeling a lot better the past few days.

So, today I went to my trainer and it was time for an upper body workout. Two weeks ago, we had to take it REALLY easy because of my wrist. Today, I was thrilled that my wrist wasn't hurting AT ALL! I was able to do everything my trainer asked me to! YEAH!!!

I am hoping to get back to those pushups... I was wanting to get to the point where I could do 100, but pushups have really been hard on my wrist. I'll take another week off, and if all is well, I'll start pushing!

The Half Marathon Will Wait

I was so excited last night as I talked with my sister-in-law about the possibility of my running a half marathon with her in 2 months. But, I spent a long, sleepless night... and decided that pushing for a half marathon that quickly would not be in my best interest.

I have read on a lot of sites that you shouldn't run that far until you've been running a year. I don't think I'll wait that long, but I've only been running 3 1/2 months! And, before that I was just sitting... not exercising at all... and I've NEVER been a runner. I'm afraid if I push that hard and fast, I'll get hurt.

We discussed switching states - to near me where I can do a 10K and she can do the half. But, that would involve 'the family' flying down here and getting a hotel for a couple of nights. And, the half and the 10K are actually on different days! So, we've decided that won't work.

So, I've decided to stick with our original plan. I'll be running a 5K in Tulsa while she runs her first Half. I am going to go ahead and start pushing for longer distances, which I'd planned on anyway. My longest run so far is 3.5 miles. This weekend, I plan on running 4 miles. I won't be at the lake house, so my choices are round & round at the park (not very fun, and I too often give up!) or on the streets of my neighborhood (which is more likely, but on cement). Then, I have two 5Ks coming up in the next 3 weeks. So, I'll keep busy running!

I would like to find a 10K to start training for, but haven't found one yet. Then, I'd like to find a half marathon to run - probably in Texas, Oklahoma, or Kansas where I have family. I'm looking at March or April, possibly earlier. I was wanting to do a triathlon in April, but I don't know if I'll find the time to train in all 3 sports. In fact, I just found out my husband will be leaving very early on both Saturday and Sunday this weekend, so I don't know when I'll be able to run my 4 miles THIS weekend... but I'll figure it out.

Half Marathon Training Day #1???

I had a great run on the treadmill today. I did my fastest mile ever - 14 mins 17 secs. And, I ran for several minutes at a 13 min 57 sec pace. I ended up doing 2 miles at 14 mins 30 secs. It felt great!!!

So, my sister-in-law is running a half marathon on Nov 21st. I had NO plan on running with her, but I'm starting to wonder... as she's started hinting... (Of course, she did a 10K last month while I just did my first 5K.)

She sent me a great training schedule - but I have several conflicts... for example, I have two 5Ks coming up, and I should be running farther on those days. And, I'm taking my daughter on a trip for 6 days in late October - there will be just the 2 of us in the room, so I can't really leave her.

I'm thinking about just starting the training and seeing how it goes. I do NOT want to hurt myself. And, I know I can run/walk the 13.1 miles... 13.1 miles?!?! That's a LONG way!!!

Oh, my........ what to do....

Getting Faster...Oh, Yeah!

I  am getting faster! I've been trying to work on speed by using a faster speed on the treadmill. That's probably part of it. Part of it is also just that I'm getting faster as I'm learning to run and it is part of the process. Anyway, I was thrilled to set a new PR today!

Here are my recent 'big' runs:
3.49 miles in 52 mins 54 secs.....pace 15 mins 10 secs/mile (9/4)
3.49 miles in 52 mins 30 secs...pace 15 mins 2 secs/mile (9/6)
3.1 miles in 46 mins 30 secs....pace 14 mins 57 secs/mile (5K RACE) (9/11)
3.49 miles in 51 mins 19 secs...pace 14 mins 42 secs/mile (9/19)

I won't be at the lake next weekend, and just HOPE I can get a long run in! Then, the next weekend I have my 2nd 5K. I'm hoping to be under 45 minutes. That would be a 14 min 29 sec pace. I think I can do it!!!

Learning to Like a Treadmill

With school back in session and the sun coming up later each morning, I haven't been able to run outside on the weekdays. So, I am now running on a treadmill (aka dreadmill) every Tuesday. I really haven't been enjoying it much... until today!

I decided to work a little on speed today. So, I warmed up for 5 minutes and then decided to start at about 15 min 30 sec miles and run for 90 seconds. Then, I would walk for 90 seconds then run at the next faster pace.

Well, I did this for several 'levels' and then hit 14 min 17 secs. I was so happy when I completed the 90 seconds and knew I could keep going. So, I went for 4 minutes!

Then I decided this was a nice pace so I let my HR get back down while walking and then started running with a plan of doing another 4 minutes at 14 min 17 secs. At 4 mins, I still felt great and decided I wanted to complete a half a mile at this pace. So, I RAN A HALF MILE AT A 14 MIN 17 SEC mile/min pace! I was thrilled! My usual pace, when I run 3 miles, is only 15 mins 30 secs. And my pace at the 5K this weekend was right at 15 mins. Playing on the treadmill can be fun!

So, my goal next week is to do this again... only I HOPE to run 7 mins 3 times! So, I'll have completed 1.5 miles at a 14 min 17 sec pace. I do know this will be a mental challenge. I've discovered that some of my best runs - when I feel I've accomplished the most - are when I've went above & beyond what I set out to do. For example, if I would have went with the goal of running 7 mins at this pace today, I know I would have thought "I can't do this!" and probably I would NOT have done it. Or, the first time I ran 3 miles, I actually kind of got 'lost' and didn't know I was going that far! Or, again, I probably wouldn't have chosen that route!

I'm glad I found out the treadmill can be fun and I'm looking forward to running on it. It's great to mix my time outdoors & indoors while running!

I Ran My First 5K!!!

I did it! I ran my 'first' 5K!

So, some things I'm proud of:
... I finished!
... I broke a 15 minute mile (yeah!)
... I feel great and will definitely be running again

Some things I wish I would have done differently:
... ran the entire race - I walked a LOT of the last mile, but it was hot (mid-80's) and sunny and my HR was quite a bit above what it usually is
... finished under 45 minutes (I finished in 46 minutes 30 seconds - unofficially - I did complete the actual 3 miles in under 45 minutes! (barely)

This race was at our high school and the band was playing, the cheerleaders cheering, some of the choir sang, and the track team walked. There were about 400 people running and it was neat that the streets I drive on every day were blocked off for us to run on. I did not have any cramping issues (thankfully), though I did have a bit of a stitch in my side for awhile. I was running faster than I've ever ran - just a little bit - so I'm sure this added to it.

I was also disappointed that I was in the 'walkers' area as many people can walk as fast as I can run. It will be nice when I can actually run with the runners!

But, I am happy with myself. I'm glad I ran today and proud of myself for how far I've come in the past 3 months. And, I'm totally ready to run some more! My next race is the Komen Race for the Cure in Houston so it'll be a much bigger race. I'll follow that with the Komen in Dallas which will also be very big. I will just try to keep improving and enjoying myself.

My "First" 5K is TOMORROW!

Well, I have worked HARD to get to this point! I started running on June 3rd with C25K (couch to 5K). At first you have to run 1 minute at a time, and it was so hard!!! When we bumped it up to 3 minutes, I was so proud of myself! I felt like I'd run a marathon - it was that difficult and I was really proud of myself.

I have now been running over 3 miles since August 8th, so for the past month! I am confident I CAN run my 5K tomorrow, though hoping my cramps don't return!

I actually have ran/walked two 5Ks in the past. They were both in 2003 with my brother. At the time, I was exercising pretty regularly, but had not run outside at all and was just trying to run on a treadmill - without a plan and without much success. So, for both 5Ks I just ran until I couldn't run anymore, then walked while I recovered, then ran again! My times were: 49 mins 30 secs and 46 mins. (They were not chip timed, so not exact times, either.) I'm hoping to run in 45 minutes tomorrow, but that'd be a little faster than I've ever done it. For the past few weeks I'm averaging 15 mins 30 secs per mile, though I have run 1 mile in 15 mins.

Another issue... they've lost my bag! One of the organizers is someone I've known for many years. She told me she'd drop my bag off at my house instead of my having to go to one of the pickup places. Well, she put it at the wrong house! (next door) And, they told me they never saw a package! So, this lady is busy getting me a new bib & chip & goody bag... and she's having to get a t-shirt from another organizer as she only has 2XL left. She's supposed to give me a call sometime today for me to come to her house and get it! It does have me a little stressed, but it'll work out.

So, thanks for ALL of your support, fellow SPers! Here I go!!!

August Review & September Goals

I have not done very well in a lot of areas this month, but I have still made progress! Here's my monthly review & new goals.

August goals:
1. Run 3x per week - ALMOST MET... 1 week husband was working early and I only got in 2 runs.

2. Be able to run for 2.5 miles GOAL MET!  In fact, I can now run for 3 miles!!!

3. Weight train 2x per week (one upper/one lower). - I've been doing really poorly with weight training, but I start back with my trainer tomorrow!

4. Workout 6x per week.  - not even close!

5. Lose 4.5 pounds (would be at 146). - ALMOST - I'm at 147, which still feels great!

6. Burn 2000 calories per week - not even close! I've been burning more like 1400-1500. I should have realized I'd get off track with school starting.

SEPTEMBER GOALS:

1. Run 1st 5K (since 2003) on Sept 11th.

2. Run 'my' lake 5K in under 46 minutes. (currently at 49 mins 20 secs)

3. Run 1 mile at 14 mins 30 secs. (fastest current run was 15 mins 30 secs)

4. Buy a bicycle!

5. Lose 4 pounds (so 143).

6. Get back in the habit of drinking 8 glasses of water a day. (So, let's say 20 days this month.)

7. Start logging food again. (15 days this month)

8. Run 8 miles per week, swim 500 yards per week, and 'bicycle' (probably at gym) 4 miles a week.

I am really stressed with the start of the school year and am not finding much time to be on the computer logging my food, etc. And, I've been making poor eating choices. I hope to get that turned around! And, it was great looking back at last month's goals and see some that I've met!

Weeekend Workouts

I had a great weekend. All of my husband's family flew in and went to our new lake house. (There are a grand total of 9 of us.) My sister-in-law is training for a half-marathon in November (and marathon next spring) and we were going to workout together.

On Friday, I swam laps in the lake for the first time. I'd tried once before, but the waves were high and I gave up quickly. The lake was really smooth this day and I did 14 'laps' between my neighbor's boat docks. I am guessing they are about 22 yards each. I need to bring my goggles and swim cap, but I'll definitely be trying to swim laps each time we go out.

On Saturday morning, we were supposed to get up at 6:30 to run our '5k' around the peninsula. Well, she didn't sleep well, so I went by myself! It was cooler than it has been and I set a new personal record!!! My fastest had been 52 minutes... this time it was 49 mins 20 secs! My 'real' 5K is in 2 weeks and I'm hoping to run it in 45 minutes or less. It is a lot flatter than my hilly peninsula.

That afternoon we worked out on our boat dock. We did some upper/lower/core exercises. We probably only did about 15 minutes, but got a lot in. And, it'd been awhile since I'd done any weight trianing. Something I learned from the experience... I don't need 30 mins or an hour to workout... just squeeze it in where you can!

On Sunday, we went to run sprints... my first time. I know some of you don't recommend it for new runners. Anyway, it was hard!!! But, I was surprised that it got easier. On my last sprint, I felt like I was flying. We ended up running/walking for an hour and went 3.66 miles. (Our walking portion was really slow - and the sprints were really fast!)

Tonight's workout got cancelled because the a/c went out & I had to wait for a tech. It won't be fixed (probably) until Wednesday. Oh, well! I hope to workout at the Y tomorrow while dd is at co-op. On Thursday I'm getting back with my trainer after 3 weeks. And I'll run on the peninsula again on Friday.

I'm not being as faithful to either exercise or my eating, but I'm still getting better, faster, and thinner!

C25K... DONE!!!

I  completed C25K today. Yeah!!!

I started C25K (couch to 5K) on June 3rd, so the 9 week plan has taken me about 11 1/2 weeks. But, I did it! I can't believe I did, but I did! It was the best of times... it was the worst of times...

Now on to Phase 2

Running is SO Mental!

So, it is now dark when I need to get up and run and I'm struggling with what to do. I enjoy running in the neighborhood and get to sleep in a little later since I don't have to drive anywhere, but I feel safer running at our park where there are a few dozen people. So, this morning I headed to the park a little after 6.

One thing I like about the park is that the trail is marked off in quarter miles. However, the past few times I've ran there, I keep checking my watch and trying to set 'personal records.' This causes me to run too fast and be worn out before I'm done. Drats!

So, today I was supposed to run for 30 minutes. A few weeks ago, I ran a mile here in 17 mins 40 secs. Last week, I ran a mile in 16 mins 30 secs. Well, today I ran a mile in 15 mins 30 secs!!! I was so proud of myself! But, I was also really tired and had to start walking.

I tried to start running two more times, but could only run a few minutes each time. I ended up only running/walking for 30 mins total, including my warmup & cooldown. I went a little over 1.75 miles.

So, somehow I have to stop trying to go so fast! I really can't leave my watch at home as I have to be back for hubby to go to work.

The other "mental" part of this is that I can see the entire 1 1/4 run and it looks SO LONG!!! When I'm running in neighborhoods, I only see a portion at a time and it seems easier. Plus, I get out there and HAVE to finish running (or walking) to get home. Here, I can just cut across the parking lot - which I did today! So, along with being thrilled with my 15 min 30 sec mile (which I am thrilled!) I'm disappointed that I didn't run for 30 mins today.

Running 5Ks

Hi, everyone. Sorry I've been MIA the past few days. We were at the lake house this weekend and we don't have internet service! I'll be trying to catch up with everyone, but I might just jump in tomorrow as this is the last week before school starts and I have so much to do!

Some of you might remember my run last weekend. I was at the lake house and was thrilled to run 40 minutes straight! But, was disappointed when I used "map my run" and it showed I only ran 2 miles. Ew!

Well, I just couldn't believe that was only 2 miles... so I drove it this weekend. I was right! (And, "map my run" wasn't wrong, I'd just drawn it wrong!) My run was 3.1 miles... a 5K!!! So, last weekend I ran a 5K in 54 minutes - on my HILLS!

So, yesterday (Saturday), I ran it again!!! This time, in 52 minutes. But, I had a HARD time. I didn't have any water and the temps are hitting over 100 here. It was early (6:30), but still HOT. I was concerned for awhile, but I made it.

Today, I did it AGAIN!!! I know I'm not "supposed" to run back to back - especially long runs - but the weekends are my best days to run as I don't have to worry about my hubby's work schedule. So, I ran with a water bottle - much better! But, I was also more tired. On Saturday I ran for 40 minutes... today I ran for 25 minutes (and a few more short runs). And, even with all the walking, I did it in 54 minutes.

My first 'real' 5K is September 11th and I can't wait!!!

Today's Run was HARD!!! (C25K W8D1)

Completed W8D1 today. It was hard and I didn't enjoy it much. It was hot (already 84 degrees by the time I was done at 7 am), humid, I'm sore from an hour with personal trainer yesterday doing legs, and I was trying to run faster. Someone also mentioned that I might not have eaten well after workout yesterday. I didn't! I finished at noon and only ate a 200 calorie lunch - then took a nap. After dinner, I'd only eaten 1,000 calories and had to 'squeeze in' another 400. I hope I feel better on my next run, because this just wasn't enjoyable! I have usually been enjoying my runs.

Oh! And, with trying to run faster, my HR was usually 158 instead of 146 like usual. Maybe that was it, too???

Anyway, I was faster - finished a mile in 16 mins 20 secs. Last time I ran a mile and calculated it was 17 min 40 secs. But, I think I need to stop trying to go so fast - at least until I'm done with C25K. I need to concentrate on time and not distance and speed.

On a very positive note, I ran over a mile and a half for the first time!

2 Biggies!!!

I have been steady between 151 and 150.5 for the past 3 and a half weeks! Well, today I finally dropped... and hit 149!!! Yeah!!

I started at 159, so that makes 2 big accomplishments...
...I have now lost 10 pounds!
...and I am now out of the 150's!

What a great feeling!

40 Minute Run! (C25K W7D3)

Today I finished C25K W7D3. I'm on to week 8!

W7D3 is a 25 minute run. I started off thinking I couldn't possibly go for 25 minutes. We were at the lake house and it was HOT. I started about an hour after I usually run. I'd eaten really poorly the day before - and I just didn't think I had it in me. Plus, as the times are getting longer, the distances seem impossible!

Anyway, there are a lot of hills on this run. One goes on for about 3 blocks! Another one is short, about a block, but it is steep! Well, I ran them all!

I kept pushing myself and saying "just 2 more minutes" or "just to the next street" and I kept going. I finally got to the point that I was looking for a cut-through street to get back to our street - and couldn't find one. I ran, and ran, and no street! I started thinking about turning around, but I knew there must be another street. (Our new lake house is on a penisula and we live on one edge - I was running along the other edge.)

I FINALLY found a cut-through street and took it. Then, when I figured out where I was, I decided I'd better keep running or it'd be a LONG walk! So, I ended up running for 40 minutes! I couldn't believe it! And, then I had to walk 9 more minutes to get home. So, I was out for 54 minutes (including warmup). My poor husband was actually getting worried and said he was hopping in the car in 15 minutes.

Anyway, I was so excited to plot my run on MapMyRun. I've never run 1 1/2 miles and I just KNEW I'd probably ran 2 miles. (But, remember the hills???) Well, I was SHOCKED to see that, even with my walk, I'd not even gone 2 miles! It turned out to be 1.92 miles!!! In 54 minutes! UGH!!!

Next, I plotted just my run. SURELY I'd run at least 1 1/2 miles! In 40 minutes??? NOPE! I ran 1 1/3 mile! UGH!!! I can't believe it! Again, I'd love some reassurance that it was the hills. I really didn't feel like I was going that slow!

So, now I'm going to make that my weekend run and keep trying to improve my pace. I did it in 54 minutes today. My goal next week... 51 minutes??? Can I do it???

And, I have a goal this week - I WILL run 1.5 miles on one of my runs. I WILL!!

Sprints on a Treadmill

My daughter and I went to the gym today where we did a machine that can act like an elliptical or a stair climber (do you know what it's called? I don't!), treadmills, and recumbant bikes.

The biggest part of our workout was on the treadmill. (And, I'd already run 20 minutes this morning!) I usually don't like treadmills, but I tried doing sprints today. (I think that is what I was doing.)

So, I started out walking and then switched to where I would run for 1 minute and then walk for 1.5 minutes. I ran faster for each run. The last 3 (of 6) runs were at a speed of 13.02 minute miles. My usual speed is closer to a 17 minute mile, so this was fast for me!

I really enjoyed it! And, it was challenging. I don't really enjoy doing 'long' runs on a treadmill, so this is a way I can use my treadmill time!

By the way, my triceps are sore today! My trainer had me do 100 tricep pulls yesterday. Every time I had to stop, he let me take a break, but he'd add 5 pounds to the weight! Yikes! I had to stop 3 times... and it was SO hard! But, it was evidentally a great workout!

C25K W7D1... redo!

Well, I redid W7D1 today as yesterday's run was such a flop. First of all, my hubby had to go to work early so I knew I needed to get up early. I set the alarm, but forgot to check it and it didn't go off. So, I didn't have quite as much time as I hoped for/needed.

I forgot to check my HRM before I headed out the door and spent 4 minutes trying to descretely wet my HRM strap to get it working. I finally took it off and got it wet and put it back on - all while doing my warmup walk.

I started running and it felt a lot better than yesterday. But, after awhile, my legs started getting really heavy and I was really thirsty. I used to run with a water bottle, but haven't been needing it (plus I read that it keeps you lopsided), so I stopped. I could have used the water today!

When I got to a certain point, I looked at my watch/HRM and couldn't belive at how quickly I'd run that stretch. Man, I must be flying! Oh, yea.... my HRM wasn't working the first 4 minutes so I'm actually 4 minutes slower than I thought.

I ended up running 19.5 minutes (because that's the time it was when I got home). Actually, I passed the house at 18.5 minutes and was headed for 20 mins, but a neighbor came out and I said "hi" and stopped. Anyway, in 18.5 minutes I only ran 1.08 miles. Yes, I'm a turtle! But, hey! I'm running over a mile without a break! That's something to be really proud of!!!

In the 24 minutes I was out, I went 1 1/3 miles. Not bad! And, I hope to get a full run in on Friday and Sunday.

I hope you all have happy, healthy days!!! I'm headed to the gym in awhile, with my daughter, to cycle and probably do an elliptical - her favorite.

C25K W7D1... I guess!

Today I attempted to do C25K (couch to 5K) W7D1 (week 7 day 1) which is a 25 minute run. Well, I did pitifully! And, that was strange because I've been 'killing' the times the past 4 or 5 runs... I've been going more than is required each day. For example, W6D3 I ran for 30 mins, instead of 25.

Anyway, it was hot, my iPod was dead, and my leg started hurting. I only ran 8 minutes... Yep! Just 8 minutes. I walked the rest of the way for a total of only 1.25 miles. It was pitiful!

I really don't know if I was listening to my body or whimping out. I was afraid to really hurt my leg. And, I knew I had my personal trainer in a few hours. I usually don't run on trainer days. Anyway, I just gave up and thought "I'll try again tomorrow... or Thursday."

I did have an incredible workout with my trainer today, though. And, I ate well today! So, overall I'm happy with today. But, I can't wait to try Week 7 again! I WILL do it next time!

July Review & August Goals

Here were my July goals and how I did:
1. Track my food EVERY day. - I don't have internet at the lake house and so I didn't track the 5 days we were there. I also didn't track one other day. I don't think I'll set this goal again until we have internet at the lake house.
2. Run 3x per week. - I only missed the one Saturday when everything fell apart. I really tried, so I feel good about this goal.
3. Swim 3x per week. - I didn't swim very much this month. I skipped an entire week and only swam once last week.
4. Be able to run 5 minutes straight. (currently can run 2 minutes) - I SLAUGHTERED this goal! 5 minutes??? I'm running 30 minutes now! WOW!!!
5. Lose 4.5 pounds. (goal weight for end of July 150!) - Well, I got CLOSE - I hit 150.5 today (no scale the past few days.) It is funny, though, as I was down to 151 by about the 16th. Well, I don't think you can totally control how fast you lose weight, so I'm pretty happy with this goal.
6. Weight train 2x per week. - DONE!
7. Be able to swim 100 yards without stopping for breath. (currently can swim 25 yards) - DONE! But, that was where my progress stopped.

August goals:
1. Run 3x per week.
2. Be able to run for 2.5 miles.
3. Weight train 2x per week (one upper/one lower).
4. Workout 6x per week.
5. Lose 4.5 pounds (would be at 146).
6. Burn 2000 calories per week.

C25K W6D3 & Weekend

Hi, everyone. Well, first of all, I picked my daughter up from camp on Saturday morning. Yes, I cried when I saw her! She looked great and happy and I hadn't talked to her since the Sunday before! And, she's an only child and I homeschool her, so we are together a LOT. I missed her so much, but was thrilled she had such a wonderful time. I got to meet some of her new friends and she's spent at least an hour telling me about all that she did. She/I can't wait for next year's camp!

This weekend, we went back to our new lake house. I actually didn't realize that having a lake house would be this much fun. One thing that is really nice is that we are sharing it with some friends. They have two children - a boy that is almost 7 (my dd is 9) and a baby who is 3.5 months. Well, my dd and the older boy played for hours in their room. It is so nice! As an 'only', I am often my dd's playmate... or she is 'bored.' So, just to have her enjoy that time and to not have to entertain her was wonderful! I had plenty of time to read.

We also take turns with the kids. The other dad took the two older kids fishing on our dock while I took a nap. Then, I watched all 3 while the other couple went out on the jet skis. (My dh was in town running errands.) I'm enjoying getting to hold the baby, too!

Yesterday, I ran C25K W6D3 by the lake. First of all, it was so quiet there! I only saw 3 other people between 6:30 and 7:10. Also, I need mace! There were 5 big dogs on my path... 4 of which were not chained or penned in! I was a little scared when they barked at me, but none of them chased me.

Anyway, for week 6 day 3, you are supposed to run 25 minutes. Well, I was running on our hilly land (at home it is totally flat) and I STILL had extra energy. I ended up going 30 minutes straight! I was thrilled! That is the end goal (for time - distance is another story) for C25K.

So, I've decided to work on distance now (and some speed). I'll start week 7 by checking out the distances and trying to meet those.

Lastly, we do not eat healthy foods out at the lake! The first night we had leftover pizza. I did good - only had one piece and some yogurt. (We had only bananas - I'll start brining veggies and fruit!) For two other meals, we grilled out steak and high-fat hamburgers and sausage. I told my dh that we'll have to start bringing chicken they can gril me. Or I'll be eating PB&J or something! I can't keep eating like this. I did have oatmeal & water when we went out to breakfast Sunday. But, I reverted to my old habits and had a chocolate bar on the way home. I get so sleepy and I want chocolate!

But, I'm back on track this morning and plan on doing zumba with my dd this afternoon. Have a happy, healthy day!

C25K W6D2

Quick post as we are headed to lake house early this afternoon. AND... I go to pick up our daughter from camp in the morning! No, I haven't heard from her since Sunday, but I have seen photos every day and she looks like she's having a wonderful time. (And, no sunburn! )

I ran Week 6 Day 1 of Couch to 5K today. You are supposed to do two 10 minute runs. I ran at the park so I could watch the 1/4 miles. During the first run, I hit 1/2 mile at 8 mins 16 secs. If I could keep up that pace, it'd be a lot better than my mile last week - 17 min 50 secs. (To do the math, it'd be 16 mins 31 secs.)

For the second run, I picked up the speed near the end. At the 1/2 mile mark, I was closer to 8.5 mins - don't remember exactly. BUT... I still had energy and so I pushed on!!! I wanted to get to the 3/4 mile mark, and I did it! I ran 3/4 miles in 12 mins 20 secs. That would be a mile in 16 mins 6 secs or so. On my next run (25 minutes!!!), I hope to get a mile in under 16 mins. Or, maybe I hope to just survive for 25 minutes!

Rough Day Turned GREAT!

I have ended up having a wonderful day after the rough start. (See post this morning.) I got my physical. I was feeling pretty nauseous by the time it was over - I didn't get to eat until 10:20. But, I'm so glad to have that over with!

After my appointment, I went to Target and got some major shopping done. Then, off to the mall! (If you remember, my daughter is at camp so it was a rare opportunity to shop by myself.)

Well, I tried on a size smaller clothes - and EVERYTHING I tried on FIT!! It was so nice! And, I thought I looked really nice and could live without losing another pound! But, I still plan on losing more. It was just fun to keep trying on clothes and they looked nice and fit!

Then, I got a spur of the moment hair cut! (I'll try to post a photo tomorrow.) I just went and let the hairstylist do what she wanted. It turned out really cute!

After the mall, I went home and laid on the couch and read awhile. Then, my hubby called and said he was coming home to take me out to dinner to celebrate what happened at work today. It was a "big thing" that's been in the works for months, and it became official today! So, we went out to a fancy place - me with my new clothes and haircut - and had a wonderful dinner. I did really good, except I had a soda. It's my first in 2 months (I think) and it just wasn't worth it. I wish I wouldn't have, ordered it, but I did! (The water didn't have ice in it and wasn't refreshing.)

So, that's how my day turned around! Now I have one more busy day before I pick my daughter up from camp. I can't wait to see her!

Rough Morning!

I'm having kind of a rough morning. For one thing, I have a physical at 9:15 and can't eat until after that. My tummy is growling and it isn't quite 8 am. Ugh!

On a positive note: I'm getting a physical! I'm 40, and I hate to admit it, but I have never had my cholesterol checked. And, I started working out without getting a physical. So, I'm proud of myself for doing this today!

Another negative: I decided not to workout this morning because it'd make me hungrier. These days, I feel better when I start the day with a workout.

Positive note: I'll work out later today! I have my one hour upper body workout scheduled and might do some Wii as my gym is closed today.

Another negative: I'm still at weight plateau. I hit 8 weeks of my new 'diet'/exercise yesterday and have been stuck between 151-152 (7-8 pounds lost) for 2 weeks now.

Positive note: The scale will start moving soon, right? And, I am definitely losing inches. I was amazed at how much I had to tighten my belt yesterday.

Another negative: I met a new trainer and scheduled a workout for Friday. Last night I decided I really didn't want to do that - I like my current trainer and I want to run Friday morning. So, I cancelled last night. I feel really bad about this - I like to stick to my commitments. And, the reply I got this morning was short and ... well, I just hate doing that to someone and wish I'd just think before I make a commitment and then that I'd stick with my schedule once I've made it.

Positive note: I get to run tomorrow morning!

Ok... shower time so I can make it to the doctor's! Have a healthy day!

C25K W6D1

I completed C25K (Couch to 5K) W6D1 (week 6 day 1) today. I actually swam for 500 yards first as morning was the only time I could fit it in today. I did take about a 30 minute break before running.

It went really well! W6D1 has three runs: 5 minutes, 8 minutes, and 5 minutes. I ran really slow (like a turtle!) the first 5 and 8 minute runs. But, I decided to pick up the pace for the last run. And, I ended up running 7 minutes instead of 5 for the last one! I love that I'm actually having EXTRA energy and not being wiped out by these days!

In the 8 minute "slow" run, I went .48 miles. But, in the 7 minutes "faster" run, I went .44 miles! I'm guessing the first pace is about 16.5 and the second if less than 15. Yeah! I had been disappointed last week when I did W5D3 and it took 17 min 40 sec to go one mile. Would love to be running around 15 or 16 minute miles instead. Though I know it isn't about speed right now!

I'm ready for day 2! I plan on running the first 10 minutes slowly and picking up speed for the second 10. I'm loving this!

C25K W5D3...Accomplished!!!

I did it! I just completed Day 3 and ran my first 20 minutes!!! It really wasn't that hard, either. My breathing never got heavy and I could have kept running. However, I was running like a turtle! It leaves plenty of room for new personal records, though. (For the record, I ran the first mile in 17 min 40 sec!)

I actually feel a bit let down. I thought I'd feel more accomplished. But, I also thought I'd run a mile in about 16 minutes, so maybe that's the problem. Anyway, I think that might be another reason we drop back in time next week - so we can work a little on speed.

Anyway, I'll stick with this group for the next few days as I want to celebrate with you all, but I'm headed to week 6... WooHoo!!!

Trigger Foods

I guess I've always known that there are some foods that make me want MORE instead of leaving me feeling satisfied. Potato chips are like that. You know, "you can't eat just one!" Cheetos, too. My mom and I were in college together and she could go through half a bag studying the night before the test.

But, tonight I realized there must be other foods besides chips that leave me wanting more instead of satisfying me.

I had bought a box of 100 calorie treats - a mix of Reeses wafers and Hershey's chocolate covered pretzels. I haven't really been eating many sweets the past 7 weeks, but the past few nights I've been having a Reeses wafer. Chocolate is something I often crave and this 100 calorie 'dessert' has been satisfying me.

Tonight I thought I'd try the pretzel. It really didn't sound that tempting, but I thought I'd give it a try. One little nibble and my body started shouting "more!" I thought I should eat something healthier, but my body shouted "more!" So, I thought I'd go ahead and eat it and have a half glass of milk. Well, after I was done, my body was still shouting "more!" It was really an odd feeling. I knew I "had to" give my body more chocolate!

I actually had over 200 calories that I could eat for the day, so I ended up grabbing a 100 calorie Reeses wafer. Even with the first bite, I felt myself calm down and knew that I'd be OK. This was satisfying me and not making me want more.

So, I will not be touching those pretzels again. And, I'm going to try to pay attention to my body and watch for other 'trigger foods' that leave me wanting more, instead of satisfying me.

What about you... do you have trigger foods? If so, what are they? And, how do you handle them?

C25K W5D1 & Jumping Rope

I completed C25K (couch to 5K) W5D1 today! It includes three 5 minute runs, but I changed the last 5 minutes into 8 minutes. I was amazed! It wasn't hard! I never started breathing hard and my HR only got up to 151! It's been getting up to 160-162 lately. But, I was going really slow. In fact, I wanted to ask another runner if I was actually running. It just felt so slow, so easy, so natural! Maybe I found my stride???

I mentioned on my feed yesterday that I played with a bosu, stability ball and jump rope with my daughter for almost an hour last night. Well, one thing I did was to jump rope for 5 minutes! Now, that's hard! My HR was up to 162. I think I'll be adding jumping rope to my exercise schedule. That was something I LOVED as a child (like riding a bike and swimming!) and I'll enjoy the exercise, though it is hard!

Working Out with a Personal Trainer

I was asked about personal trainers, so I thought I'd share my answer in a post!

This is my second time to have a personal trainer (PT). The two experiences have been pretty different.

Last time, I was at a gym where they train PTs. I didn't have a trainer assigned to me, though I was usually able to get the same guy. We worked out on the weight equipment 95% of the time. Things I enjoyed: him setting the machine for me (weights, seat, etc), pushing me harder than I would push myself, knowing when to increase weights and/or reps, being a 'buddy' while I worked out (so not boring!), having an appointment (that I'd paid for!) so I was determined to go, and being a wonderful cheerleader.

My current PT is quite a bit different. He is the manager of a small gym (part of a chain). At the other gym my workouts were 30 minutes, but with him (Kevin) they are 60 minutes. The cost is the same (per 30 mins), but this time I am paying each time I go instead of a huge sum up front.

With Kevin, we are probably using the machines only 25% of the time. He really mixes things up. He is also a great cheerleader and he pushes me, again, beyond what I'd push myself. But, I'm also really good at saying "that's enough!" when I really don't think I can go any further.

Kevin is really good at correcting my form. It's amazing how many times I need corrected when I think I'm doing it right! And, he's great at checking on how I'm doing. For example, we were doing pushups yesterday and he asked me how my wrists were and I told him one of them was hurting -that it often hurt. So, he got my some weight lifting gloves (I'm official now!!!) and it relieved the pain! I'll be using those when weight training now.

I made a deal with Kevin - he trains me one day a week (upper or lower - we always do core, too) and he plans a 2nd day for me to do at home. I told him what equipment I have available, and this way it costs me less and I don't have to drag my dd to the gym twice a week!

He also incorporates cardiovascular exercises to keep my HR up. He will make this harder as I get more fit.

Here's what we did yesterday:
1. modified pushups - 3 sets... 1st set of 15 was normal... 2nd set - afterwards I sprinted across the gym and did a "bear crawl" back... 3rd set - afterwards I did something I think he called a climber- it was HARD (hard to describe, too!)
2. jump roped 60 seconds
3 & 4. alternated crunches on ball and lat pull down (machine)
5 & 6. alternated chest press (free weights) and lewg raises (machine)
7. dumbbell fly (free weights on bench)
8. dumbbell deadlift... on Bosu!!! That was interesting!
9. cable bicep curl (machine)

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask! One questions might be cost. I suppose it might vary according to part of the country. At the first gym, I paid $25 per half hour and now I pay $50 for an hour. There is a PT in my neighborhood that works from her house who also charges $25 per half hour. At the YMCA, the cost varies according to how many session you pay for. And, you can also have 2 people per session and get it cheaper! Oh, and my sister-in-law lives in another state and pays $60 per hour, but hers includes some fancy body testing and nutrition.

Today's Early Run...5:30 am!

I got up at 5:15 am and was out the door by 5:30. I headed to the Y expecting to see a few cars. I think there were 50-60! Wow! There are a LOT of people who work out early!

They have an indoor track that is 1/13th of a mile long. I was running W4D3 where you have two 3 minute runs and two 5 minute runs. The first time I attempted this, I changed the second 5 mins to only 3. The second time, I didn't have a timer so I ran 1/4 mile runs instead. But, today, I DID IT!!! I ran both 3 minute runs and both 5 minute runs! Yeah for me!!!

And, I wasn't even dying! I could have kept runnning... at least a little longer.

I've done every other run 5 times, so I'm debating on whether to go on or stick with week 4. I think I'll probably stay to be safe, but I'm still deciding.

Oh, and I wore my HRM for the first time running. In 32 minutes, I burned 255 calories! Wow! I could burn over 500 calories if I could do this for an hour!

More Obstacles!

Well, my husband's schedule this week has thrown me a curve. To get in my workouts, I've been getting up at 6 to swim or run before he leaves at 7 or 7:15. Well, he said he has to leave by 6:30 every day this week - and not getting home until 10 or so. (Yes, it is a crazy week!)

We aren't comfortable with my running that early on my own. And, the pool is only open to us from 6:30-7:30. Too early to drag my dd out! (Besides my morning workout, I get another one in later in the day..)

So, what am I going to do???

Well, I can swim at home. It isn't as much fun and I don't have any buddies, but it can be done. I WILL swim at home this week.

Running? I have a friend I can ask. We could go at 6... maybe.We really have trouble getting together & have only ran twice together. Or I can have my dd run with me on the track at the Y, though she really doesn't like that very much. I can just run twice during the week and get my third run in on Saturday.

I'm not sure, but I'll just have to make it work, somehow! It won't be as easy as it has been, but I'll make it work. I'm really disappointed because I've been enjoying my morning workouts so much, but hubby's work comes first!

What a Morning!!!

It's Sunday morning and this is supposed to be my Rest Day, but I missed my run yesterday. So, I woke up at 6:20 to go running. And, even in the midst of things falling apart, I had a good start to my day!

It started when I got to the park and started my iPod. It is messed up! Something about running tests and "not connected." Grrr! So, I went back to the car to put it up and realized I didn't have my new HRM with me. And, I didn't have my timer (which I used to run with) or my watch. So, how was I going to keep track of the time?

The park path is marked out at 1/4 miles, so I decided to walk 1/4 mile then run 1/4 mile and repeat it 3 times. This sounded pretty hard to me... and it was! But, I pushed & pushed and I DID IT! WOOHOO! SparkPeople was on my mind as I thought about the fact that I'd either get to blog that I did it... or that I gave up.

Anyway, just as I was headed for the car, a bird "got me", if you know what I mean! It wasn't a direct hit... more like some splattered on me. What a way to end my run!

I got home and for once I was really hungry! I just got some new Lean Body shakes, which I love, and opened one and nothing would come out. I got a knife thinking the seal hadn't broke, and still nothing! I squeezed... and plop, plop... this semi-solid 'stuff' started plopping out! EWWW!!! So, I opened another one, and same thing! YUCK! So, I guess I'll be returning that case today and hope that there are no problems since I don't have a receipt!

I did enjoy some time praying and singing praises in my head today as I ran. And, I enjoyed listening to the birds and watching the squirrels... they come right towards you if you are walking! It's almost scary! And, I saw a bunny. So, it has really been a nice morning, just filled with a few minor inconveniences!

I can't wait for my next run! This does get easier, right???

Zumba!

My dd9 and I went to our first zumba class today. It was wonderful! I miss going to classes and was thrilled that my dd could join me for this one.

The Y that we joined last week offers two family zumba classes a week - one on Monday night (will try to make it this week!) and one on Saturday morning. There were about 60 people in the class including about 15 kids! It was wonderful. And, we all had so much fun "dancing" to the music. And, I burned over 400 calories! Yippee!

On the other hand, I broke my "C25K 3x per week" streak today. My dh had to get up at 5 to go somewhere, so I couldn't run in the morning. I decided I'd either go to the gym or run outside when he got home. Well, he didn't get home & settled in until 5:30 so we went to dinner. We got home at 6:30 and my husband reminded me that the Y closes early on Saturdays... at 7! So, I couldn't go there. I thought I'd wait an hour and run... and then the thunder & lightening started up. It went on for several hours and didn't quit until dark. So, I didn't get to run. It is really frustrating!

That also means I WILL run tomorrow, even though it is supposed to be my "rest day." I'll have to try to throw in a rest day during the week, though I know I won't unless I just can't find the time to exercise.

Anyway, I'm really frustrated, but trying to make the best of it! I did exercise for 445 minutes this week... that's over 7 hours! And, I burned over 2600 calories. I think both of those are records for me. Also, I upped my "weekly goal" to 2000 (still not enough?) and so I've been getting to eat more calories every day. That's nice!!!

OK. I'll try to look at the positives. And, It is 9:24, but I could still eat 200 more calories and I might just go and get half a glass of milk. Actually, I will get some milk and grab a book or magazine and go read!

Disappointing Run, but Today I Swam/Ran/Biked!

I had to run on a treadmill today. I really don't like running on a treadmill and this is the first time I've done it since starting C25K. Anyway, I forgot my iPod and the PodCast was supposed to help me find my pace.

I started walking. First of all, I was disappointed to see that my "warm up" was only a 20 min/mile! Then, when I started my 'run' (jog), I was only going a 16.5 min/mile. Yikes! I know it isn't about speed at this point, but I thought I was going about 13-14 min/mile.

Another disappointment: on week 4 you are supposed to run the following mins: 3-5-3-5. Monday was my first try and I made 3-5-3-3, so I changed the last 5 to a 3. Today? Hmmm... I ran 3-3-2. That was it! I turned off the treadmill after 22 minutes. I just couldn't (or wouldn't) do it.

Another thing was that I was wearing my HRM. My HR is supposed to stay between 134-150. Well, I don't know what is "dangerous" (I'll do some research), but at the 3 minute mark it was up to 162. Maybe that's fine... but I wasn't sure and didn't want to push it.

That being said, I have worked out hard all week long. And, I had already swam 30 minutes 3 hours before this (675 yards... including my first official 100 yards!). I did have some energy left, though, and got on my favorite stationary bike... the Expresso (virtual...kind of game like). I ended up riding a fairly flat course of 3.67 miles in 21 minutes! Not bad for me.

So, I kind of did my own tri today. I swam. I ran. I biked. (Though the swimming was at 6:30 and the running & biking were at 10:00.)

Tomorrow I plan on swimming in the morning and then trying my first 10 mile bike ride (on the Expresso). I'll be running again on Saturday - outside! - and hope to get back to some 5 minute runs!!! If not, though, I'll keep pushing myself and I'll get there eventually.

Books to Tri

I've been reading books about triathlons the past few weeks, and thought I'd share a little about them.

The first one I read was "Your First Triathlon" by Joe Friel. This is a great beginner's book that I'll be reading again as my tri gets closer. He discusses nutrition, support, and how to safely train in all 3 disciplines. It also has different plans for different people - for example, if you come from a running background or a background in none of the 3 sports (like me!). It also talks you through your first triathlon and how to prepare and what to expect. (My first tri isn't scheduled until April, so I have a lot of time!)

The second book I read was "Slow Fat Triathlete" by Jayne Williams. The best piece of advice I came away with from this book was that you shouldn't worry about how you look! Here's a quote: "Absolutely nothing good ever comes of worrying what other people think of you when you're doing something that you want to do, that's fun and legal, and that's actually good for you." I also really enjoyed reading her journal entries from after various events. Although I got some good information from this book, I was really turned off by her language. I probably wouldn't have bought her 2nd book (because of the language) if I hadn't bought them both at the same time.

The third book is a book I borrowed from the library and finished today. I plan on buying this one! It is called "Triathlon 101: Essentials for Multisport Success" by John Mora. This is a great book that discusses tris from many angles. The book is divided into the following sections: "getting ready to tri", "traithlon training basics", and "tri-ing your best." The book is filled with lots of great information for someone new to the sport!
The fourth, and last, book I've been reading is "Shape Up with the Slow Fat Triathlete" by Jayne Williams. As I mentioined in her other book, I'm really disappointed (and bothered) by her language. UPDATE: I read a few more minutes of this book and just had to put it down. I will NOT be reading this book. The language is just unacceptable to me. I would not recommend this book.

Do you have a favorite tri book? Or a book about swimming, running, or cycling? I'd love to hear about it!

Why You Might Want a HRM (Heart Rate Monitor)

I got my HRM yesterday and got to use it for the first time today. First of all, I had a hard time getting it to work, but I finally placed it up higher (really under the base of my sports bra) and it worked! And, boy was I in for some surprises!

First of all, I did 8 minutes on the elliptical for warm up for my personal trainer, which is what I usually do. I burned 51 calories. The last two times I've done this warmup, the elliptical told me I burned 81 calories. (The HRM is programmed with my age, weight, and height.)

My other surprise was during my swim. I've been unsure how to log it. When I've logged a 25 minute swim under "general", it shows I burn 168 calories. When I've logged a 25 minute swim under "crawl" (just once), it shows I burn 308 calories. Well, I only did a 13 minute swim tonight (long day!), and the HRM showed I burned only 72 calories! If I would have went for 25 minutes, it would have showed around 140 calories. So, I guess "general" is close, but "crawl" is way off. (By the way, my swim is 25 yards at a time, which takes about 33 seconds, followed with about a 30 second breather. I guess when you are logging "crawl" they might expect that you are CONSTANTLY moving.)

I got a pleasant surprise during my weight training. (Of course, I didn't know how many calories I was burning before.) I burned 271 calories in 1 hour!

I can't wait to see how my run shows tomorrow. It's going to be on an treadmill, though, because that is just how this week is working out. I really don't like running on the elliptical, but maybe with my podcast I'll be able to find the right rhytym.

Oh! In case you're wondering...I bought a Polar Women's F6 (in pink) from Amazon. It cost about $85 and shows calories burned, has a fitness "diary" (which I haven't figured out yet), and you can sync it with your computer (ditto - don't know how yet). It also shows where your HR should be and how many minutes you were in the target range. It is waterproof (thus I swam in it) and seems to be just what I needed!

Weigh In, Cancelled Plans, & Breathing While Swimming

First of all, I had my weekly weigh in this morning. I'm glad the scale is still moving, but I only lost 1/2 pound this week. (Total lost: 6.5 pounds in 6 weeks.) Kind of disappointing, but hopefully next week will be more.

As far as workouts today, I had 2 planned: swimming with my friends and workout with trainer. Well, the first got cancelled because my hubby needed to go into work early. So, I swam in the backyard. The second is cancelled because my daughter is sick... or maybe she ate something bad. Either way, we need to stay home today as she was vomitting last night. She doesn't have a fever, so I hope she's fine tomorrow. (She's supposed to be in camp all week.) So, I'll be using Wii Boxing, I think.

As far as the breathing, I learned something from a book I'm reading! I've been swimming my first 25 yards with only about 3 breaths because it is so nice and relaxing. Then, on the 2nd 25 yards, I'm really wearing out and having to breathe a lot... and then I have to stop and catch my breath.

Well, in this book (I'll look up name), it said that to swim distances you need to breathe every 2nd or 3rd breath. I tried both today, and prefer every 3rd. So, I tried that today and it helps SO MUCH! I was able to swim 100 yards twice!!! Well, actually, I'm swimming 96 yards since my pool is 12 yards across. So, I swim 8 times across (instead of the normal 4 you'd do in a "real" pool), and that is my "100." I'm not counting this as a "goal met" (my goal was to swim100 yards) until I do it in the big pool and feel like it is official, but I'm sure I can do it!

The Weekend

I've had a pretty good weekend. It started with my early morning run on Saturday when I surprised myself by running two 4 minute runs... without passing out! No, really... they were much easier than I expected.

Later that morning, my dd9 and I went to the Y. We did 10 minutes on an elliptical and then went to the Expresso bikes where you can view the virtual trail you are riding on. I rode 18 minutes to complete a 3 mile trail. We then went to something similar to an elliptical - I'll have to get its name next time. You can either use it like an elliptical or kind of jog on it. Anyway, I just cooled down on it for 5 minutes.

After that, we had a snack (fiber bar!) and went to the outdoor pool. We spent some time on the waterslides.

We've eaten out 3 times this week. We eat out a lot on the weekends, and I need to work on that. Anyway, I've been doing really good when we go out, but this time I didn't do as well. I even had blueberry pancakes for dinner tonight! But, I stayed well within my range today! (I was really near the top yesterday, but still was in range!)

I'm ready for my early morning run tomorrow as I move on to week 4 and some 5 minute runs! On Tuesday, I will try to swim 100 yards in the pool - by switching strokes. So, I hope to meet two of my posted goals in the next 2 days. We'll see!

Goodbye Week 3 of C25K!!!

I am slowly working my way through C25K as I work on my goal to run a 5K. I honestly don't know how so many people do it on schedule, but I know I need to take it at my own pace.

I spent 5 weeks on weeks 1, 2, and 3. Today was my 5th day at week 3 and I just wasn't ready to try a 5 minute run. If you aren't familiar with C25K, week 3 has you doing two 90 second runs and two 3 minute runs. Week 4 has you doing two 3 minute runs and two 5 minute runs.

Anyway, today I was feeling really good and decided to try a 4 minute run. Well, I turned both 3 minute runs into 4 minute runs and I KNOW I could have done 5 minutes. WooHoo! This feels like such an accomplishment! This IS such an accomplishment!

I can't wait for next week! Bring on the 5 minute runs!!! I CAN DO IT!

Reviving the Dream

I first had the desire to do a triathlon back in 2003. In fact, that is when I first heard about sprint triathlons! I had a new friend who was also my spin instructor who was doing a sprint tri.

I started running on a treadmill, doing spin classes (with my friend as instructor), and took semi-private swim lessons with a friend (from spin class) for 8 weeks. I ended up doing two 5Ks with my brother, but I had never even tried running outside. I had times of 49 mins and 46.5 mins.

"Life" got in the way. So, I gave up my dream.

About 6 weeks ago my sil came to visit. She had started running and lost a lot of weight. I was impressed! And, she was going on a 25 mile bike ride the following weekend. It really inspired me.

I started by dieting about 5.5 weeks ago... and then I started the C25K program a few days later. I have a pool and started swimming laps and I realized I could train for a tri! I went on my first bike ride (in over 2 decades!) a week or 2 later while visiting my sil. We did 2 rides in the foothills of an incredible mountain: 4 miles and 7.4 miles.

So, here I am! I have signed up for three 5Ks. I expect to walk a lot of the first two (in Aug & Sept), but run most/all of the third (Oct). I also found a sprint tri near my moms that has the swim in a community center we actually go to. So, that's my goal and it is in late April.

My current training schedule:

run 3x per week (C25K - I'm going slowly and currently on Week 3, but plan on moving up to Week 4 after one more run tomorrow)

swim 3x per week (30 mins with group at neighborhood pool - I swim 500+ yards)

weight train 2x per week (1 with personal trainer/1 according to the plan he writes for me)

misc - some Wii, some videos, some other cardio machines, and hopefully some group classes since we just joined the Y

I'd like to start cycling (on stationary bike or spinning) 2x per week, but we'll see! I don't plan on actually starting on my bike (which I don't have yet) until January.

So, that's the beginning of my story! I am determined. I WILL TRI!

2 Workouts Today

I had 2 long workouts today.

The first was at the Y with my daughter for the first time. I was amazed that she kept up with me as I did C25K W3D4! I walked & ran about 1.5 miles. (I need to figure out how to keep track of how many laps I've done.) She could do a quick walk and keep up with my running. Oh, well! I am getting better. The 3 minutes weren't too bad and now I'm trying to decide if I should move on to week 4 or do one more week 3. I'm also thinking about making my own workout - maybe run 3, walk 2 and repeat that 4 times.

After our walk/jog/run, we went to the cardio room. We did the stair climber. I did 5 minutes and she did 3. Then we went to the bicycles. They really are kind of like a video game! I choose a 2 mile loop around a college campus and we raced each other! (She only made it a mile, but I'm still very proud of her.) Anyway, you can actually shift gears and 'feel' the hills, etc! Very neat! I think I'll spend a lot of time here. They also have 'spin' bikes with computerized spin classes! I've got to try that out, too!

We did the Y in the morning. Before dinner, I did my lower body workout that my trainer prepared. It took 51 minutes and it was HARD! So, I'm pretty wiped out.

It was nice to sleep in, though, as I've been getting up at 6 & 6:15 lately so I can exercise before my hubby leaves for work. I got to sleep in until 6:30 and then didn't have to jump into my exercise right away.

Tomorrow's schedule: 30 minute lap swim in morning and my daughter and I might try a cardio class tomorrow afternoon!

Picking a Gym...Daughter Can Workout, Too!

It is supposed to rain tomorrow. A lot. So, I was fretting about how to get in my run. I decided I really needed to go ahead and join a gym.

I've been doing a lot of research on gym memberships. I've belonged to 4 different ones over the past 9 years. What I wanted was as follows:
- an indoor track to run on when the weather isn't great (I don't really like treadmills)
- an indoor track to run on when it is dark out in the am - for safety
- an indoor pool to swim at year round
- spinning classes
- early classes - so I can go before my dh leaves for work and I don't have to worry about my dd
- exercise bikes - so I can 'bike' anytime, not just when there are spin classes

So, after doing a lot of research on a lot of places, I decided the local YMCA was the place for me. (And, yes, this is one of the places I was a member! In fact, it was my first gym here... about 9 years ago when my dd was a toddler.)

Well, I went today and signed up. And, it is better than I even thought! I'm so excited!

1. There are 2 aerobics classes my dd can do with me - a zumba (which I don't know much about, but I've heard is an exciting new class) and an NIA (which looks like it is a mix of things). Yeah! She's excited, too.
2. Since she is 9 (it starts at 8), she can do the cardio machines with me! She's excited and can't wait to go... in the morning. The rules are that she has to stay on a machine right next to me, but that will work! She REALLY does NOT want to go to childcare anymore.
3. She can run on the track with me! And, she doesn't have to stay right next to me. We can each go at our own pace. So, we are doing that in the morning and she's excited. She'll have her iPod with her, and hopefully she'll enjoy it.
4. She can swim laps with me! This will be wonderful after this summer. She does need to get "tested", but she's been on a swim team for 4 years, so I'm assuming she'll be fine.
5. All of the cardio machines have TVs... a big plus for my dd!
6. They have these NEAT new bikes in the cardio room that have video screens. You can have a virtual outdoors ride AND you can race the person on the bike next to you! My dd is really excited about this one. (Me, too!)
7. They have 2 stair machines... one of my favorites. (As I mentioned, I really don't care for the treadmil, though I do like ellipticals.)
8. They have some spin bikes in the cardio room. Hmmm... not sure how I'd manage this with dd, though. I'm sure they are too big for her. But, they are right next to the cool bikes, so maybe that will work?
9. They offer 2 classes each morning (usually 5:45 and 6:00) that I could go to before my dh goes to work. They are a variety of classes and I love doing group classes. I'm not planning on adding any in right away, but I'm excited about trying some at some point!

So, my dd and I are thrilled with all of the things we'll be able to do. And, I'm excited that I will be able to get in my 2nd run of the week tomorrow! **sigh** Things are really looking great. I CAN do this!!!

Week in Review

Here's what I accomplished this week:

C25K walk/run - 3 days (1 day of week 2 and 2 days of week 3. Started 3 minute runs.)

strenght with personal trainer - 4 days (This won't happen again. I was being trained on new equipment at gym. Two days were really light and two days were really tough.)

swimming - 2 days of 500 yards each (would have been 3, but it rained one morning)

aerobics - 23 minutes (part of Biggest Loser video - 5 mins was warmup and 4 mins was yoga cooldown)

warmups - 4 days for 8 minutes each (3 on elliptical and 1 on stationary bike)

Total minutes for week: 327

Rain & 3 Minute Runs

I started C25K W3 on Thursday. This is the start of 3 minute running. During the workout, you do two 90 second runs and two 3 minute runs.

On Thursday, I ran this with a friend and pushed myself... and made it! It felt SO good, but it was really hard.

Last night my daughter had a slumber party that another mother and myself supervised. We stayed up late and didn't get a lot of sleep so I took a nap when I got home. At about 10:30, despite the heat and really high humidity, I went running.

I did my first run in the rain! It was kind of fun and it made me feel more like a runner. It actually felt good as it was really hot out.

Also, I realized that the 90 second runs actually seem pretty easy now! When I first was running the 60 second runs, they seemed SO LONG. But, I was surprised at how easy it was today.

The 3 minute runs, on the other hand, are VERY hard. Both times I didn't think I could do it, but I did! I know they'll get easier. I'm actually doing every "week" 4 times (so it takes more than a week) as I'm really new to this and I feel this is still really pushing myself.

One question... when you get a stitch in your side while running, what should you do? Stop? Push through it? Stretch? Drink more water? I had one on my 2nd 90 seconds and I had to walk and drank more water. I was fine the rest of the run. I guess I'll do some research, but would also appreciate any input!

Tomorrow's my rest day... yeah!

A Productive Morning

I've had a great morning.

First of all, I got up and did about 10 minutes of yoga using the Wii. It felt good just to stretch and hold (though I don't hold to the yoga philosophy, I do think they are great stretches and really like how Wii does it.)

Then, I met up with my friend and our girls played together while we went on our "run." We did W3D1! This is the week you jump to a 3 minute run, and I was worried about it. Two minute runs have ben hard. Well, we both did our 3 minute runs... twice! That met one of my first goals - to be able to run 2.5 minutes! I am really proud of myself. This seemed so impossible a month ago. Yeah, me!

Next, I got ready and took my daughter to camp and then went to work out with my personal trainer. We worked on upper body for about 45 minutes. My dh and I decided that I won't stick with the trainer, but I enjoyed my workout today and will do one tomorrow, also. He is also helping me just plan my goals for the next few months. I might be back to him when I get closer to my April triathlon.

After that, I went to Nutrition Depot to get some liquid vitamins my trainer recommended. I stayed about 45 minutes there and got a lot of information. I also ended up buying some fish oil. Hopefully I can swallow it! And, he made me my lunch - 4 or 5 egg whites mixed with some protein. It was actually quite good! It tasted like cake batter, but very healthy!

Next I went to the YMCA that is by my daughter's classes. I am thinking about joining the Y as I re-evalutated 'why' I wanted a gym membership. The main reasons are that I want a safe (and dry! and cool!) place to run, swim, and cycle. Well, this small gym doesn't fit that description, but the Y does. And, it is a very nice place. I was also thrilled to learn that when my dd turns 10 this fall, she can join me on the cardio equipment! (but no weights) I'm wondering if she can join me for aerobic classes, too, but I forgot to ask. Anyway, this will help a LOT!

I might do some Wii tonight and I have a swim scheduled in the morning - weather permitting! Have a healthy day!