Just Running!
I am still working on my running routine. I can run a mile without needing to heave out a lung or becoming intimately acquainted with the belt on the treadmill (hard on the lips to kiss such things!). The program is pleasantly doable, and it’s nice to be able to move it up a notch at my own discretion. My goal is to be able to run 1.5 miles without stopping by the end of Fall — and not in the gym either. I want to be able to do this outside with my jogging stroller full of mischief in front of me. I will keep you all posted!
It never ceases to amaze me how much harder running is compared to the cross trainer I have been using for months now. I can do 6 miles on the cross trainer when I do a full hour. The course is hard too. It is mostly uphill now and the intensity level I use is pretty high. My general rule of thumb is if I can talk to you and not gasp between words and I am not sweating then I am not working hard enough. It really does work me out good, but it does not wear me out. Running takes a lot more energy and puts more wear and tear on your frame. I prefer to continue my cardio-workouts on the cross trainer, but I need to be able to run so that when I can not make it to the gym my exercise does not fall to the wayside.
I got a handful of emails from some of you who said that you were hoping to add a little exercise to your routine. I hope you have found something that works for you. It really does help to find something that fits into your life, and something that you can feel the benefit from immediately. Don’t torture yourself right off the bat. Life is short, but there is plenty of time to torture yourself later! We have a group of people here who just walk around the mall before the stores open. I may be joining them when the weather gets too cold to be outside. For the Fall I plan on enjoying my time with Emma and learning more about running and doing so around a lake. It will be a great place to run.
Take care, and if you need any encouragement, ideas or a cheerleader you can just write me!
PS: Yes, I do wear pink running shoes, and I run like a girl! :p
I agree with you Claire, even running on the treadmill for me is not the same as running outside. I love running outside, but I never run as far. Oh well it is fresh air and exercise. I also have pink and baby blue tennis shoes.. Congrats on the exercise..
Shelly
I walk the Breast Cancer 3-Day for fun(?)…60 miles over 3 days. But…I was inspired enough when reading your post to splash out on a cross-trainer for home. Not sure I can run outside (yet); my knees have been pretty banged up over the years with the walking - but that’s my eventual goal.
Due to other injuries I sustained during my freshman year at military college, I can’t run anymore. Doctor’s strict, “Mom-look” orders. The Mom-look is what made me think she was actually serious about this. So, no running for me, but the walking around the mall idea sounds good… I think I’ll try that!
Shelly, I just LOVE the cross-trainer. I swear by that thing. I burn around 650 calories a day by doing that one hour work out. When you do that you can eat what you want within reason and still be in good shape!
Piper, 60 miles in any amount of time less than 3 months is very impressive to me! Walking is great exercise. I was born with a metabolism that is slower than molasses in January, so when I walk I have to do the really fast power walking to benefit. Darn those genetic pitfalls!
Green, I am a *tad* paranoid about running right now do to Mr. Hooah! and great hip mystery. I would definitely listen to the doc — you can get an awesome workout with walking or swimming!