I started "running" back on August 23rd. It wasn't so much a run as it was a very slow jog, some walking, lots of gasping for air, and jello-like legs. But since then I have started experiencing a sort of high from it, I've noticed some changes, and I have learned a lot.
The High
There isn't much that gets me as excited and pumped up and.... high these days, as going for a run. In fact, instead of waiting and taking a day off from running there have been a few times where I have gone two days in a row. I can't wait to run and try and beat my previous time, which I am still doing almost every single run. (On Sunday I even beat my time after being stopped by a neighbor and having a short conversation!) And I am just as happy and excited each and every time. I know that won't last forever and I will peak at some point, probably soon, and then not see such steady progress. But for now, I'll take it.
Each time I get back from a run I exclaim, usually to the boyfriend who is the only one around, "I did it!" What I mean when I say this is I beat my previous time. And then I jump around a bit, and request multiple high-fives. Probably mention a few hundred times how amazing I feel. Then I stretch and ice my knees. And while I am icing I open up the (new!) laptop and start entering my data into a spreadsheet. (Yes, I really do this. Yes, I know I am a total geek. I may not understand electrical fuses but I can easily navigate my way around an excel spreadsheet.) I enter the data for each of the 3 laps I do along with the total time. I report to my boyfriend preceisely how much time I took on each lap and the total time I improved by. My boyfriend is so encouraging and patient that he listens, gives me all the requested high-fives, and tells me how great I am doing... each and every damn time.
The Changes
I have definitely noticed a change lately, after the first 6-8 weeks or so of running. I am much more motivated to go running despite the very frigid temperatures we've been having (such as 36 or 38 degrees). First, I suppose I am just getting used to it, and it is part of my routine. Second, it is so much better now that I can actually run the entire route at a somewhat reasonable pace and not feel like death. I am no longer gasping for air or barely able to move my legs after I am done. It was much more difficult than it was fun. And now that has shifted. I have a steady rhythm of movement and breathing the entire time. I recover my breath much more quickly now.
The Things I've Learned
I love using a watch when I run. It makes it a little more fun and interesting. And it allows me to track my progress (again, dork with spreadsheet who loves numbers). My older sister runs and a while ago she recommended I buy a Timex Ironman watch
There is a great website where you can purchase some really nice (somewhat expensive, but very high quality) running attire. My sister was also the one that introduced me to the site: http://www.runningwarehouse.com/. Items ordered from there arrive 2 days after ordering, shipping is free, and so is the return shipping. So far the only item I have purchased from there myself is the Brooks Womens Nightlife Podium Zip. I run after work and now it is getting to the point where I can't come home from work and finish my run before it gets really dark out so I thought the Nightlife collection with the reflective zipper and logos would be ideal. I wore it tonight and I love it.
Apparently I am not too embarrassed to wear running tights in front of all my neighbors. A little embarrassed, yes, but not embarrassed enough to keep me from wearing them. They are actually really comfortable, easy to run in, and keep you warm when the temps are in the 30's.
In terms of running in the cold/rain/snow I have learned quite a bit from a few other runners, including my friend Christina: wear something close to the ankle so snow and rain don't get on your legs; wear a baseball cap in the rain to keep it from getting in your face/eyes; don't wear anything cotton because it will hold all the moisture and you will get very, very wet.
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Related Posts:
Running Milestone - reaching my first milestone related to running
Jogging - my thoughts on running/jogging after about 4 weeks
Wow, you go, girl! You ROCK those running tights!
I used to run, many years ago, and I experienced many of the same feelings you do (tho I did not have a dork watch or spreadsheets). But I loved to try to beat my time, loved noticing that each run was a little easier than the last, LOVED that I could only run about 1 minute when I started and was able to boost it to an hour.
But I NEVER ran in the winter!
Bravo! I hate running... but you make it sound awesome!
Most excellent! I was SO motivated to do my brisk walks & even started walking with a neighbor. Then I went on vacation...and now, the thrill is gone. I need to get back in the game! Thanks for the motivation.
JD: Haha. I am trying to ROCK them best I can! When I first started I wanted to stop after about 2 minutes, now I feel fine after 32. BEST feeling! We will see how the winter goes, but my hopes are high :)
Candice: A lot of people hate running (including my doctor, ha) so you are definitely not alone. There was definitely a hurdle to get over, but now it's fun!
NatureCat: Thanks! You've got to get back into it!! After you start doing it again you will get your motivation and thrill back. I was SO worried that after going out of town for 5 days and not running that entire time that I wouldn't be able to make myself do it again. I am so happy I was able to pick up right where I left off.
Funny that we seem to be doing stuff in tandem. Check out my last few posts:
http://www.majimoblogs.com/2009/10/we-ride-again.html
http://www.majimoblogs.com/2009/10/trail-running.html
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