I think I mentioned it before, but I just started the Couch to 5K program a couple of weeks ago.It’s rather humbling to follow such a basic run/walk program, but it’s actually been 9+ months since I last ran a half-marathon and probably 7+ months since I did any real running. It would be pretty crazy of me to think that I could just pick up where I left off, especially after spending so much time with my feet up at the end of my pregnancy. I have a history of hurting myself, so I want to take it nice and slow to hopefully build myself back up gradually.
After waddling along in slow-motion for so long, it’s nice to be able to get out and run, even if it’s only for 90 seconds at a time.
For those of you who might not be familiar with it, Couch to 5K is a program designed to help non-runners get off their duffs and start running. The basic idea is that most people try too hard when they first take up running and then it’s painful or they hurt themselves, so they give up. If you start slowly, you’re more likely to stick with it. You alternate running and walking, and every week you run a little more. After two months, you should theoretically be able to run a 5k.
I feel pretty good, although it’s definitely been tough to cart around all my extra weight and push a jogging stroller. I’m glad that I started when I did, though. Lilian only weighs about 12 pounds right now. If I waited until later, I might not have been able to push her. This way, as I progress, I’ll also be building up the arm muscles and extra stamina that I’ll need to (someday) push around a toddler. I’m also hoping that, when I’m not pushing a jogging stroller, I’ll be a little extra fast. Or maybe just not quite so slow.
I must admit, my bum foot has started bothering me. I’m trying to keep it under control with stretches and a special little wooden dowel that I have to roll under my foot. I do not want to get full-blown plantar fasciitis again. That was miserable. If anything, it’s going to be a great incentive for me to watch my eating. I know for a fact that my knee and foot hurt less when I’m closer to my ideal weight.
Today, I went “running” with my sister Allison and my dad’s girlfriend. We took advantage of the fact that they close off Memorial Drive to go running along the Charles River. It was pretty much a perfect day…. crisp, but not too cold, with plenty of sunshine sparkling on the water. I could have walked the whole thing and I still would have been happy. I’m so grateful that I can get outside and be active and enjoy a beautiful fall day. Sometimes I get so caught up in thinking about the things that I can’t do (run for more than 90 seconds at a time, sleep for eight hours a night). It’s good to remember the things that I can do.
And, hey, my baby slept for six hours straight last night. Sure, it was from 8pm to 2am. But it’s a start.
There needs to be a stroller version because running with a stroller is no joke. I thought I was going to die the first time I tried. And to be honest, I, uh, haven’t tried again.
Yay, 6 hours of sleep!
I’ve started and stopped this so many times. I’ve never been a runner. I don’t have any big running goals right now, but I wouldn’t mind being able to run a mile or two without a) tripping over my feet and b) dry-heaving until I throw up on the corner and pass out.
Good luck to you! 🙂
For serious! My only consolation is that now, when I run without the stroller, I feel like I’m flying. :p
I was never a runner, but I somehow turned into one along the way. Although I sure don’t look like one these days!
I love running. I’m going to try to go today (EW!) Wish me luck – it’s so gross out today.
I got to try these “foot wakers” at a spa once and I loved them so much I bought some of my own. They stretch your feet, ankles and calves and make your feet feel amazing and much more flexible: http://www.amazon.com/Yamuna-Body-Rolling-Foot-Wakers/dp/B000PJTXT0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1352386327&sr=8-1&keywords=foot+wakers
They seem expensive but they really work. Christmas is coming too…
I have a little ball that I can roll under my foot. I think that it works in a similar manner.