A Different Kind of Feeling

Last week, I started using an app called C25k to help get me running again. It is a great training app that does intervals of running and walking, with a warm-up and cool down. A voice guides you along, letting you know when to walk, run, jog, warm up, cool down, lets you know when you are half way through, and when you complete the workout. It really has motivated me to get off my butt and get moving again.

My major goal right now, is to live long enough to see the world a little longer than predicted. Running will help me achieve that goal. What's great about it? It not only gets me motivated, my son wants to keep me going too! I found a way to show him that you can do anything, as long as you believe. To never give up, no matter how hard it gets.  Plus, it always helps to have someone cheering you on!

Along with my running, I have noticed a difference in my food habits. Yes, there are a couple times where I just want the worst thing for me (Oreos). Overall, I just want better things to eat so I don't lose that good feeling I get after a good run. Finally getting the chance to slowly wean off of processed foods. The last two times I have gotten fast food, they have made me sick. I am craving leafy greens, healthy fruits, other kinds of vegetables, incorporating more nuts (haha) into my lifestyle, and it feels great!

I will be honest, I was a blubbering mess this morning... did not want to get out of bed, but I did it. I put my shoes and socks on, started my running playlist, and walked outside. Thirty minutes later, I was alive, my head was clearer than when I started, and I knew that I didn't give up. I have completed 2 weeks of training with this app, and let me tell you, it is getting easier. The pain isn't as overwhelming anymore. I am also researching tips on breathing and shin splint prevention, looking up different types of shoes, body forms that really help prevent injury, and finding songs that better fit my tempo. Biggest accomplishment? Telling that little nagging voice in my head, that tells me that I can't do it, to SHUT UP! I know I can do this and I will. Its only 3 days a week for 30 minutes each day, I can't complain! Well, actually I can... there are days when I want to do another 30 minute program!! Now that is just amazing!

When I run, it is a different kind of feeling. I thought that driving would be the ultimate feeling of freedom, but for me, it no longer is. Running is one thing in life that I have always loved doing, but held back because of my weight. Not any more. I am going to take it easy so I don't hurt myself, but I am going to continue this endeavor until I have reached my goal. I will complete a 5k in my lifetime!