When you’re around a large group of people who are about to challenge their bodies physically you can literally feel the excitement and energy in the air. At least I can. I became so inspired and energized. If I hadn’t just started walking I would’ve signed up on the spot. Being at the runners expo reminded me of when I participated in the relay race in 2005 with co-workers for the same event (they longer allow relay teams now).
The more I talked about it with others, I decided I was going to participate in a half-marathon. Specifically the Myrtle Beach Mini Marathon being held at the end of October. Let me tell you, it was an exciting and frightening thought. I’ve never been a long distance runner, I have asthma, and well 13.1 miles is just intimidating. I also don’t have a “runner’s” physique. A few extra pounds are hanging out in my lower body. But I do have drive. I do have an incredible amount of motivation to meet this goal. My inner athlete has finally convinced the couch potato to give it a chance to break free.
Around the same time I met Kris Kavanagh, a Holistic Health Coach with Healthy Habits Now. Today I’m happy to call her a friend and she’s helped me tremendously with my eating. With her guidance (and patience) I’m putting better fuel in my body and learning to pay attention to how my body responds to certain foods. We’re all different and each of us has individual needs. One positive to moving more and eating better is weight loss, 12 pounds in about a month to be exact. I probably won’t weigh myself again for awhile since I don’t want to drive myself crazy. It’s also not my primary goal.
Today I finished my first official week of Hal Higdon’s half marathon training program at the novice level. The plan includes several runs, cross training, and strength conditioning six days a week. My legs are burning, my body is sore, and my mother has suggested I started taking baths with Epsom salt (she’s old school like that). It’s all worth it and I know my body is thanking me. Along with the physical, moving my body is also helping my mental health. I feel better. I’m less annoyed by problems that arise.
This week was not obstacle free. By mid-week I fell victim to the temptations of trivia, spirits, and hanging out with friends. I ended up skipping my workout the next day and the next. Oy vey. To make up for it I doubled up today. It was tough waking up but I did. And I’m glad. A text from my gym buddy was also helpful motivation.
Note to self: if you’re really going to get yourself in good shape for the race, late nights aren’t going to help you cross the finish line (at least not as quickly as you want to).
