Thursday, February 24, 2011

Wimp or Strong?... Beginning to build a habit.

"Running is a big question mark that's there each and every day. It asks you, 'Are you going to be a wimp or are you going to be strong today?'" - Peter Maher, Canadian marathon runner.

Peter Maher isn't wrong. Today I have a 13 hour day between my two jobs so getting up first thing in the morning is definitely difficult. When the alarm went off at 7:00 am I was looking at the clock thinking to myself do I really want to do this today or should I just sleep that extra hour. Well I got up because I'm not running for anyone but myself. I got up and drug myself down to the local rec center and completed day two of the Couch to 5k program

Just as a reminder from the last post, DON'T FORGET TO STRETCH! I learned today while I was stretching that its just as important to stretch your back, shoulders and arms, when you're about to complete a run, as it is to stretch your legs. So after completing about 10 minutes of rigorous stretching, I got on the tread mill and ran for it.

Running is not for the faint of heart. Although I can't say that I'm actually running yet; the interval training is definitely beginning to form a habit. I can safely say that I'm still energized by noon and I'm looking forward to the rest of the day.

Day Two on Couch to 5k looks identical to the first. Brisk 5 Minute warm up walk. Then alternate 60 seconds of jogging and 90 seconds of brisk walking for a total of 20 minutes. Now it should be noted that every work out there is also a cool down walk of about 4 to 5 minutes. Day three is going to look the same. After looking at the plan you really do not start increasing times or distances until about the third week. When it comes to forming a habit this is a great thing because it allows for me to be consistent. Consistency is the key to forming all good habits. Day two was another run of about 1.78 miles.

So On Saturday when I hit my next run for day three I'll be asking myself am I wimp or am I strong. I'll be able to say after three days, "HELLS YEAH I'M STRONG!"

1 comment:

  1. This is totally inspiring. I hate running with a passion, and I'm trying to get fit. They make me run at the gym and I get winded so fast. Good for you for owning your health and setting this goal.a

    Thank you for blogging your journey Morgan! I am going to watch and celebrate with you as you complete this goal. AWESOME. SAUCE.

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