Starting over

I always claimed to “hate” running. This fall I just got tired of my negativity over it and decided the only way to beat my attitude was to run a half marathon. Basically, just make running a part of my lifestyle. After just a couple months of running I went from running barely 1 mile to being able to run 10. It was quite a difference for me! Over the holidays with travel and family gatherings, my training slowed down. I’d determined to only run twice a week, and I did just that. It was a mistake. I’m basically starting over now.

I was able to run once last week. I’d intended to run several times, but ended up coming down with a stomach bug. So now my training and this blog are starting about a week late.

Today was rough. I’d hoped to do 6 miles (3 laps), but stopped after just 2 miles (actually less). The Canada Geese poop was all over the trail, and no matter how I tried to dodge it with my jogging stroller, it did end up on my tires. So disgusting! I couldn’t take it anymore. Starting tomorrow, I plan to run the boardwalk at the beach, until it rains and the bird excrement is washed off my usual course.

So the positive:

  • I got out and ran, even though it’s cold.
  • First run since being really sick.

And the negative:

  • I’m slow. My average pace was a 9:36 minute mile, so I have a lot of work to do.
  • Today I used Run Keeper for the first time. According to the app, the track I’ve thought was 2 miles for a few months now, is actually 1.8 miles.

Jan. 8, 2014 run

Calories burned are most likely off, especially since I pushed a jogging stroller with a toddler. He’s a skinny toddler at less than 23 lbs., but it’s still a little extra workout.

My race is in April, and I’m a bit concerned. I know I have a lot of work to do. Hopefully my running partner will feel better soon (she had the same bug), and we can start training together again! I always do better running with someone else than alone.

How was your day? Did you meet your fitness goals?

8 thoughts on “Starting over

  1. Nicole

    I hadn’t planned to run today but have had enough of not running, so I did. It likely wasn’t wise after being so sick for so long, but I kept it at half an hour and didn’t do anything additional. So I guess I jump-started my post-holiday training today. Overall, a good thing!

    Reply
  2. Alicia C.

    I’m starting training for a half on Monday, where is the trail you usually use? I could use some new ideas, the same scenes get boring.

    Reply
    1. Elisebet Post author

      That’s exciting! Which half are you running? I’m doing the swamp stomp.

      I usually go to Trashmore to run but occasionally the Boardwalk. If you don’t mind driving out to Chesapeake, there’s also the main Chesapeake City Park or Oak Grove Lake Park. Since you don’t have a stroller to worry about, you could probably run around Fort Story no problem. First Landing State Park is another option, and I think the parking fee is only a couple bucks this time of year. The Botanical Gardens are awesome to run at, but that’s not exactly affordable unless you have an annual pass!

      Reply
    1. Elisebet Post author

      Oh gross! I’ve been able to keep my stroller in the (carpeted) trunk for most of the time, but occasionally I do bring it inside. That’s one of the reasons the geese poop freaked me out so bad! I’m going to have to find some rags and bleach down those tires or something. :(

      Reply

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