September 7, 2010

Couch to 5K

Well, it's official--I started a running program today!

I am terrified to write this, because with that comes accountability. Scary! :) I have known for awhile that I need to really push myself to get back into shape. I just haven't put in the effort that I need to, and I'll be completely honest about that.

My dad is a marathon runner. You might remember our incredible experience in Boston. Watching my dad run that race was life-changing for me. I'm not saying that I'm going to go out and run a marathon (I'm pacing myself with goals!), but it did something to me, big time.

So for my birthday, my dad bought me running shoes; a pair of gray and turquoise Saucony's. I was scared just walking into the store. What was I getting myself into? For the longest time, I've told myself that there are people who just aren't programmed to run; me being one of them. So I've decided to test it out. Can I do it?

I've been surrounded by runners lately. I've been encouraged by people who run consistently and insist it's doable. I have a goal in my head of what I want to accomplish, but I'm not ready to share it yet. But the big thing is that I got on the treadmill today and completed my first Couch to 5K workout!

This is a 9-week program, consisting of 3 workouts a week, that takes someone basically sedentary to running a 5K. I am using the iPhone app that prompts you when to run and when to walk. It also allows you to create a playlist to use while running. I found this really helpful! I survived the first workout, and I was surprised that I didn't do that poorly. I never had to skip a section of running, and I completed the whole thing. I was sweating and sore by the end of it, but the way I feel now is great. I feel a sense of accomplishment, and that's worth a lot to me.

I don't know how I'll do with this, honestly. But the accountability of putting it on the blog and having an expensive pair of running shoes is enough to really push me to do it. I would really appreciate your support and encouragement. This is a big step for me!

Week One, Day One = Complete!