My New Obsession

I've set a goal. The goal is to run a 5k by the end of October. I have always secretly wanted to run a 5k, actually the goal was to run a marathon but let's be realistic - baby steps. My friend, Lisa and I have decided we are going to run the Colt Stampede at Wheeler Farm on October 20th. This race helps fund Cottonwood High School's running program and before you ask, no, we don't have any affliation with CHS. The only reason we chose this race is because it gives us time to train, and the course is FLAT, flat as a pancake, flat is good. Did I mention it's a flat course? That means no hills, which in Utah is hard to come by.

I've started following the Couch to 5k program and am just heading in to my third week. It's going good, not too difficult at this point but I hear when you get to week six you need to just muster up all your strength and not give up. Oh, and pray. It's really strange, I have always had a fairly easy go of it where running on the treadmill is concerned but I have discovered that running on the treadmill and running on the road are two vastly different beasts. It took me a while to build up to being able to run two miles on the treadmill and now that I'm on the road I'm realizing what a complete sissy I am. Hence the reason I decided to start this program from the very beginning. It's not as easy as it looks people!

I have never been a runner, which is why I probably have had this goal in my mind for a long time. It's something I can accomplish, which in all reality I have never thought I could before now. I'm really starting to appreciate being physically fit and want to see how much my body can do. When I was younger I took for granted how much my body was able to accomplish. Sure, I wasn't winning races but I had no problem finishing the 1.25 mile physical fitness test my senior year of high school. It was simple. Now? Not so much.

Now, the most interesting thing is starting to happen in my quest to finish a 5k. I think I'm becoming a runner! I really enjoy the thought of getting out there and feeling my feet pound the pavement. I have a rush of adrenaline go through me whenever I finish a workout and feel very empowered. It's exciting to set a goal for myself and know I will accomplish it. See you at the finish line!

Comments

[Allknowingjen]

Jen, seriously. It's surprising sometimes how much we have in common! I am also currently doing the Couch to 5k with the aim of running a 5k this fall. (though I haven't signed up for a race yet, still looking for one, I am not really sure how to find out about them) I just finished week 7 and will start week 8 on Wed. I had to repeat a few weeks in the beginning because I was SO sadly out of shape but I am hanging in there. I've only run on the treadmill so far though-so we'll see how I do on the road.
I was waiting to finish the program to post on my blog about it though. Didn't want to jinx myself or was feeling shy about it or something.
So GOOD for YOU! Way to go! You can totally do it! :)
Also? I just started reading the Glass Castle too.
Happy running!

[Sus]

That awesome. I wish I was a runner. I wish I enjoyed exercise! Uggg.

Hats off to you!

[Jen]

oh well done jen!!

just this morning my husband made a very pointed remark along the lines of "it wouldn't hurt you to get out and get a little bit of exercise". the only thing that got exercised was my middle finger when i flipped him the bird as he walked away.

i have nothing but admiration for you for running a 5k! i'll be cheering for you and mentally standing on the sidelines holding cups of water for you as you go by.

[Lins]

Jen's comment made me laugh, Sus' comment I whole heartedly agree with, but right now, I wish I was you, Jen and some way to being physically fit. One day!