Now that I'm training for the half-marathon this summer, I figured it was time to start running outside. It's been a pretty weird adjustment. Figuring out how to pace myself. Planning a route to take. Stopping at stoplights. "Pounding" the pavement (it hurt my legs the first time). But I'm assuming it's all going to be worth it in the end.
I ran six miles yesterday. It felt like it took forever (I always forget to check what time I start/end), but I'm pretty sure it was the longest run of my life.
If I were to follow Mari's blogging patterns, I think this is the part where I write about some dramatic self-realization and sprinkle in some motivational thoughts. Well, um, running is hard. Suck it up, buttercup.
Are you calling me Buttercup?
ReplyDeleteYeah, running outside is really different than the treadmill. When you are on a treadmill you can pretend you are machine on the machine. When you are outside you are forced to think because of all the stimuli around you, including weather/people/traffic/animals/cracks in the road/whatever.
I run outside to have dramatic self-realizations. Getting in shape is just a bonus.
Good for you for running outside. You might just enjoy it, especially when things start turning beautiful and springy. You can really move your body freely too -- without having to change buttons.
Good luck!
I'm so proud of you John!
ReplyDelete6 miles outside!!! Way to go! I just get all giddy when I think of running the half marathon w/ my family there. I promise it will be inspiring.
There is something about crossing that finish line. Don't worry, they will have good food and music at the finish too. And, of course, a very cool, shiny medal and high tech tshirt. ; )
Are you using a half marathon training schedule or just doing what feels right to you? Either way is fine. Just keep pressing forward. Remember good tunes on the iPod really help when running
outdoors too.
How long have you been wearing your running shoes? Did you get a gait analysis at that running store by your house? totally make sure you're wearing the right type of shoe for you.
find out if you are a neutral or stability runner. it will make a huge difference in how you feel when you run outside. Promise.
sure love you and can't wait to kick some bootie w/ ya!
smile every mile!
Kary
PS. there is also a site called: mapmyrun.com that can give you mileage on the routes you create.
@Kary
ReplyDeleteI love my running shoes (Brooks). Got them from the running store a little over a year ago when they watched me run, etc.
I just use Google maps to see how far I run. I don't have a plan, I just kind of improvise. It's worked for me so far.:)