Running is SO Easy!

Treadmill_Trainer Volume 2

I just got in from an accidental run that turned out to be my fastest, happiest run to date!

Sitting at my computer enjoying some raw chocolate pudding and a fabulous green juice, I simply had too much energy to sit still.  So I got out my ipod, downloaded Treadmill_Trainer Volume 2 onto it, and set out for the boardwalk. 

This is the first time I’ve finished the entire workout, and I seriously had a smile on my face the whole time!  There are 2 spots where Yuri says you can stop, and I’ve taken him up on his offer times before, but I was in the zone and feeling like I could just kill the workout.  And I did!  I even ran home after I finished stretching!

I love his workouts and the way he talks to you as if he’s right there beside you.  I even talk back to him and answer all of his questions out loud!  For example, when the workout was over he asks: ”How are you feeling right now?” Amazing!  “How did you feel 10 minutes ago?”  Amazing!  “How did you feel when you woke up this morning?”  Umm…not this good…no.  (I had to talk myself into going to yoga this morning)  Then I patted myself on the back (because he told me to) and congratulated myself on running 10 k in approximately 45 minutes…and I’m not a runner!  For comparison, I ran a 5k in April and my time was 29:41…and I was dead tired and wanted to throw up…a lot.  What a difference!

I just recently started running, and I’ve only run two 10 k’s before tonight.  I ususally just do 5 k’s because I get bored of running after 30 minutes.  But since I signed up for a half marathon 5 months ago, and put off training until pretty much right now, it’s time to get serious…hence the Treadmill_Trainer series of workouts being downloaded to my ipod.  After tonight I feel certain I am going to have a competitive time in the run, and I really can’t wait to do it!  I think I’m going to do intervals during the run.  I’ll just listen to the Treadmill_Trainers even then.  That would be funny.  The motivation he gives during the workouts is priceless.  I’m seriously going to listen to the training audio when I run the race.

For more information, click the image above!

I should definitely add:  I highly recommend Volumes 2 and 3 plus all the hill running stuff, but only get Volume 1 if you are JUST starting out.  It involves walking and running, perfect for beginners, but you may find it too slow if you have any experience.  That being said, Volume 2 will kick your a** no matter what level of runner you are!  If you disagree and think you’re some big time runner, then you HAVE to try it.  It’ll step up your game so much and you’ll be thankful for the challenge!!! 

Happy running

 

Running on Inspiration

By FitMom

Last spring a couple of my neighbors started training for a half-marathon. I watched as they ran past my home office window. After several weeks of watching them I couldn’t help but be inspired. I laced up my shoes and headed outside.

I knew two things about running: 1) It worked and 2) I didn’t like it. However, I’d never run with music. The iPod would become my secret weapon. When I cued up the right songs, I was transported by the beat. Just like the good old days of step aerobics class, the steady music propelled my movements. My legs moved forward in a rhythmic and automatic fashion.

Just keep running. Just keep running.

When my neighbors saw me making my first pathetic passes around the block, they cheered me on. Then they lapped me. I longed for the day I could run with them, the REAL runners.

Running got easier. I bought the shoes and then the right ‘moisture wicking’ clothing. I had become a legitimate runner. However, it was clear I would not be running with my friends – in a race or otherwise. I realized that I liked running for its convenience and efficiency. I liked the way it made me feel and the way it made my thighs look. But I had no desire to run longer than three miles, or improve my time. I didn’t feel the need to push myself or prove anything. For a competitive person like me, that was a pleasant surprise.

A few weeks ago I noticed another neighbor started running past my window. Maybe she was inspired by my marathoner friends, or maybe she saw me and knew that if I can do it, anyone can. Now that’s inspiring!

What gets you going?