I have a love/ hate relationship with running. I want to love it, but in reality I hate it. With a capital H. I am so incredibly intrigued with people who are "runners" and I'm pretty sure my fascination is largely based in the simple fact that I just can't do it. Well, this was the way I used to think.
On Monday, after two weeks of preparation, I ran my first 10k with some other "skate moms" and you know what? It wasn't all that bad. My training consisted of one 3 mile run two weeks prior, and one 6 mile run the week before the race, largely due to the fact that I just couldn't bring myself run any more than that. I didn't break any records with my run, but I did finish under my goal, which was an hour. AND I didn't die. The latter clearly being more of my concern. I'm not going to lie, I didn't exactly enjoy the running part, but I did really like the community aspect, and certainly I felt accomplished at the end.
In my euphoric state, I somehow agreed to run a half marathon in February (yes, February in New England) and now I'm sitting here thinking about the training piece and wondering what the hell I was thinking. The idea of running 13 miles is so daunting to me, and that isn't even that far. People do marathons, and ultra marathons every day. Then there is me, at the end of 6 miles wondering if I am gong to be able to walk for the rest of the week. Now that it's Thursday, and I'm still on my feet, even having hit the gym since, so I guess like most strenuous workouts, the pain really does fade. Sort of.
My question for all you runners out there is how do you do it? Really. The physical part I think I can work up to, but it's the mental strength that is lost on me. I just can't help myself from being bored, and counting the minutes or miles until it's over. The race was the first time I actually enjoyed running, but that was totally due to the fact that we were able to pass the LM and his friends on our trek three different times. Talk about motivation! Obviously, while training I won't have his big smile to run to, so other than a killer playlist, I'm wondering how all you runners out there make it fun? Any and all advice is greatly appreciated!
So far, the best I've seen is this.
I guess the part of me that wants to stop is a little stronger than the part that wants to keep going. I really would love to change that!
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4 comments :
For your first half marathon, the best suggestion I have is to find a running group or at least a partner for the long runs. And do them outside! The treadmill will make you think you hate running. Running outside - on trails, through the city, wherever - will make you realize you can love it.
Look up Hal Higdon online- he has great half marathon training programs outlined for all skill levels.
I didnt become a serious runner until age 39, well after 2 kids- you can do it! Good luck!
Are you doing the Seacoast Half? That was my first and it was great. I became a runner on the Esplanade and miss it so much (now live in Charleston, SC). Find a runner friend and the good conversation and beautiful view will get you out there every time.
Interested to read this; I had a friend who started running at the same time as me and she has gone on to do many marathons and trains so much. I can just about manage a 5 mile run and then I am done. So the quote is very apt for me. I have stopped running for a while and bizarrely found that I missed it when I couldn't do it, so that told me something. There is no question that for all-round fitness, toning and cardio, running is the best for me. The older I get the more my body rebels and running keeps it in check. It's also quick to do and free! So I guess that makes me a runner - but I have to say I have no understanding of running 26 miles!! Amazing for those that do. Lou x
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