Finally--The Running Post

 

It's time to say it. I've been running for a few weeks now. I have always stayed in pretty good shape, but I never believed I could run for exercise. I've been inspired by Gretchen McElveen and Cathy Zielske to try it out. Cathy recommended reading John Bingham's work, and I'm reading his book The Courage to Start, which has some sage advice from a seasoned runner on everything from common beginning mistakes to how running has changed him not only physically but emotionally too.   

So what I have learned in these weeks is:

1) I'm still not sure I can do this. My heart and lungs are taking to it a lot better than my joints. I was doing great until this week, when I started having some left knee pain. I think I have zeroed in on the problem, though, and I'm doing some exercises. So far, so good, but this is still a wait-and-see proposition. 

2) As much as I hate to get up at 5:30, running in 95-degree heat just isn't smart. 

3) Small victories count. Just to get out there is really saying something. Some days are better than others, and I need to learn to be content with whatever my body can do on any given day.

4) My husband is supportive! Yes, he is always supportive, but I was afraid he would frown at this, because he thinks running is hard on you as you get older. But he is celebrating my successes and cheering me through the painful moments. And he likes my more toned physique!

5) Running on the open road in the wee hours is just exhilarating. It's relatively cool, the birds are chirping, and it's just a great time to think. 

If you haven't tried this, I would encourage you to give it a shot. Just move your body to the extent you can. When John Bingham started running, he was in his mid-forties and 100 pounds overweight. The first time he put on running shoes, he ran to the end of his driveway. That was it. But he had a small victory over himself that led to a changed life.  

If my knee doesn't fail me, you will be hearing more about this I'm sure!

Comments

[Angie Wags]

I'm excited for you! I discovered that I love running, but my knees don't. I have to figure out what I'm doing wrong before I can pick it up again.

[terry]

good for you Amy!! I started working out at the gym the first part of July. working out is something I've needed to do and feeling better about myself. I can't wait until it is a habit and I wake up saying "oh yeah, I can't wait to work out." Keep at it--you are doing great.

[Jane]

Awesome Amy! I am running again, trying to build-up to longer distances with each outing. It has helped me loose the weight that I enjoyed gaining at the beach! Keep it up girl!

[latz (Lisa Breuer)]

Way to go Amy! Running has always been out for me since my early 20s due to knee issues, but I love bicycling! I also love being out early in the morning.

[Jeff]

I am impressed because as you say the heat is tough. I started back walking, but have slacked off as the heat has come on. Way to go.

[Teri]

Way to go Amy! I started running in January with the C25K plan. I have NEVER been a runner, but I stuck with it and have ran 2 5Ks and am signed up for another one in Sept. I really like running and I love the freedom it allows. No gym, no machines, just get out and run. Love it. I hope your knee stays strong.

[Luv2talk]

I've always been fit, but not a 'runner'. 3+ years ago, I also started with C25K and now I run around 75miles/month. I run 5-7 miles every other day and have entered countless 5k, 10k and a 10 miler.

Your knee will get better, but something else will start hurting. LOL. I am in a constant struggle with pain management. Nothing serious, mind you, but little aches and pulls tend to plague me. I think I have weak connective tissue. Who knows?

Running has become a part of my life. I pack my shoes for vacations and schedule appointments around my run days. I love the way I look and feel. I am strong. I am committed. I am a runner.

Welcome to the club!