But this isn't January and this isn't a resolution it's a change of mind set. I don't want to get out of breath running for the bus (I don't actually ever catch the bus, but you see my point). I want to enjoy the exercise I do and I know that I enjoy running. I've done it before and it fits in with my busy lifestyle as a full time worker, full time single mum, part time blogger and YouTuber. I can get up half an hour earlier some mornings, throw on my trainers and go. I can go when I've finished work and Mini Greenoid's at a friends or out at some activity. It just fits. And it has the added benefit of really clearing my mind.
When I run I like to track my progress. I think it helps me. It encourages me, spurs me on to push harder. I've been using the Runkeeper app on my iPhone and I've been really loving it.
Runkeeper shows your route, distance, approx. calories burned, split times, allows you to take a photo and add it to your run stats and allows you to write notes on the run. If you're like me and enjoy numbers and knowing how far you've gone and how fast you went I'd definitely recommend it as, not only a tracker, but a motivational tool.
As well as running I tried to incorporate walking more into my daily routine. For example walking to nursery to pick the kids up instead of driving.
Here's my progress after 1 week. The comments are from what I wrote in the note section immediately after the run.
Day 1 - 30 minute steady pace 2.55 miles (Morning run)
Wow that was tough! Can't believe I managed a whole 30 minutes of running though. Very proud of myself. Promptly walked through the door and was a tiny bit sick - yuck! My right groin ached slightly throughout and my left knee started to ache around 25 minutes.
Day 2 - 30 minute steady pace 2.49 miles (evening run)
Was very tempted not to run as my inner thighs were quite sore from yesterday. Not sure if I'll be able to walk tomorrow. I need to make sure I do lots of stretching to help with the aches and pains. The actual run itself felt easier than the first one and there was no throwing up so that was a bonus.
Day 3 - 1.96 mile walk
A walk to nursery with the pushchair. Really enjoyed it. Definitely want to do more often if the weather allows.
Day 4 - 30 minute steady pace 2.44 miles (morning run)
Felt good today. Did a completely different route. Can't believe how many people are out and about at 6:30am.
Day 5 - 1.6 mile walk
Walk to nursery.
Day 6 - 30 minute steady pace 2.41 miles
Hard! Really struggled with that one! I was ready to give up after 5 minutes. Really pleased with myself that I battled though it.
Day 7 - rest day
I challenge you to move more today. Go for a run if you feel up to it. If not, go for a walk. Just move more. I guarantee you'll feel better for it.
Way to go, girl! I made the change a few months back to start running and I've been loving it but still feel sick sometimes afterwards. My abdomen cramps up just after a run which isn't really fun at all--but otherwise it's great! I got a fitbit as a thank you gift a few weeks back I will say that motivates me to get out and move every day!
ReplyDeleteOoo I've fancied a fitbit for a while now. Would you recommend them? Don't tell me you still feel sick - I thought that feeling might go away!
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