I have really taken the "get in shape" thing seriously. In February, I joined the 24-hour Fitness, and I end up getting to go one (at the VERY minimum) to 3 times a week. Since Peter started working at the Dealership, I get off of work an hour before he does, so it makes sense that I should use that time productively right? I thought so.
Many days, I intend to go to the gym, but I end up finding something else that just needs to be done, right now, and I run out of time. So I decided to add running to my regimine. Now, this decision is not as random as it sounds. I tried the C25K program last year, and did one workout and promptly decided that I was just too uncoordinated to run and watch my timer at the same time. Believe me folks, it wasn't pretty. My decision to try again can be credited solely to my Best Friend. She and I were Skyping and started talking about getting in shape, and she mentioned that she is training for a marathon. This took me aback a little as Alicia is as or slightly less coordinated than I.
Me: "....really?"
Alicia: "yeah, I run a little each day, I actually found a program to help me get in shape so I can train for my marathon."
Me: "wait, are you doing Couch Potato to 5K?"
Alicia: "Yeah, that's the one!"
our conversation continued thusly, and I found out that Sis (Alicia) had found the ultimate tool for C25K: Podrunner Intervals! Podrunner Intervals are these magical little musical mixes that you can download from itunes (free: they are podcasts) or from the podrunner site. They are timed perfectly with a sort of techno/beat type music that tells you when to run and walk in accordance to the C25K plan. No more watching watches, tripping and looking stupid. Okay, well, I can't help the last one, but you get the idea. So, I promptly went to itunes and downloaded the "first day to 5k" series to get started. Week one was a breese. Apparently working out at the gym has gotten me into enough shape to start running (jogging, let's be realistic) and I was able to saunter down the path running and walking at appropriate intervals.
By the second workout, I began to notice other people doing the same thing. Running a little, then breaking down to a walk and looking at their ipod or other music player just like me. We exchange knowing smiles and begin running again when the chime sings it's little tune. Week two was a little harder. Running for 90 seconds is hard on my lungs, and my joints are starting to hurt because I previously would avoid high impact exercise at all cost. Of course, this doesn't serve to make me want to quit, as I imagined it would but actually fuels my desire to succeed.
I sort of slogged through week two, and am now in week three. However yesterday, as I trudged out to valliantly jog in the pouring rain/sleet I decided to repeat week two just to make sure I am progressing naturally and not punishing myself too much. My joints are still a little sore, but I think that means that they and my bones are getting stronger. I can definitely tell that my muscles are getting stronger and I can't wait to see how this whole escapade turns out. So far, if I don't repeat too many other weeks, I should be able to run 5k (all at once) by the end of May. I am still going to the gym on "non run days" and this week I am doing both every day to ensure that I progress. My hopes are to use my running skills to benefit my riding skills. I will have stronger legs, better muscle control, and I will be able to ride and tie with the best of them!
No comments:
Post a Comment