Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Couch to 5K

Does anyone know what this is?  It's a program that will get you from being a couch potato to running a 5K in 8 weeks.  In January, I decided I wanted to RUN a 5K(3.2mile) race this year.  Since I wasn't really exercising, I decided to walk at least 3x/week for the month of January and then start the running program.  I purchased an app for my iPod touch and went to it.  The app started me walking a minute/running a minute and then up from there.  Loved that the app would let me listen to my music, but would bust in and tell me to run or walk and for how long.  It was good for me.  Took me up slowly so I didn't get injured or anything like that.  Today, I am able to run 20 minutes straight.  Pretty amazing, really. 

I also purchased some expensive awesome running shoes that I am sure have helped me be more comfortable with the running.  It's hard, but I am super motivated to get up on running days.  I like the thought of being a runner and I like the feeling after I am done.  I don't love the doing, so much.  But that sounds pretty normal, from what I hear.  I am doing a 5K in May and then a 10K in late September:)  My goal to actually RUN them both. 

My one beef is that I have not lost weight at all.  In fact, I have put on a few pounds.  Everyone says, "That's just building muscle" which is great, but I would really love it if all those pounds would just fall right off.  I am working out 4-5 times a week for over an hour!  It seems like it should work!  It's not that big of a deal, just a wish.  I don't want to change my eating habits, so if I exercise that should work, right?  Not so much.  But I will give it time and see.  If not, I feel better and feel like I look better.  Clothes fit better and I know I am healthier because I can run without my lungs feeling TOTALLY on fire!  It is fun and very rewarding.  Come and cheer me on!