Friday, January 25, 2008

Learning to Run - step one

My sister just ran the Disney marathon 2008 - and she is amazing! She's inspired most of the rest of her brother and sisters to run next year. I need major training before that, and I want to journal what I am doing. I'm overweight - 225 pounds at last weigh in. I've lost 30 pounds in six months, but another 30 would make me look like I was running. I used to run in high school and college for feild hockey training - and I hated it. But, I loved the feeling of accomplishment. I loved that it made the rest of the work out easy.

My sister tells me anyone can run a marathon. We'll see. I am going to buy shoes at the running store on Sunday - they will observe my run on a treadmill and help me choose a pair or two to get.
I have been walking the dog for six months - 1.5 miles a day usually. We have gotten so we run past certain houses (especially where there are other dogs), so I have increased the amount of houses we run past. I am not up to running 1.5 miles straight yet. Also, it is really icy this time of year, and the dog pulls me along. I don't want him to have too big a running start in case I fall - is that an excuse?

I am planning for the full marathon in January 2009, but if it is a half, I will be ok with that too. I am just starting on the training - I don't even have good sneakers yet. I have a long way to go, but want to plan big.

I am 9 days away from doing my first 5K in years. Another sister and I are going to do it - she'll run and I will walk. It'll be the first time I do a distance outside. I hope to run most of the first half mile, then walk the next two and run the last 0.1. It is a way to get a starting number. Can I do 3.1 miles in an hour?

What do you wear? I'll have shoes, but what clothes? Tomorrow I am going to run on the local track, outside and see if my old sweats will work. One problem - when you get overweight to a certain size, drawstring sweatpants get hard to find. They are just stretchy - I guess they figure big girls don't work out, or we might break a sweat trying to tie the strings. (Ha ha) With the weight I have lost, my sweats are loose - I don't want them to fall down. So, I will be buying new sweats. If you have any suggestions, let me know - I am running in pretty cold weather, and I get pretty sweaty.

7 comments:

Anonymous said...

I'm so proud of you! Not only for the weight lose, for getting a dog to start walking, and for starting this blog. You are setting a goal that many people think is impossible. But it is possible and you amaze me and I look forward to our chilly road race in 8 days!

For the run, think about layers (wind breakers you can tie around your waist) and bring something with pockets so you can put your gloves away if it's too hot. And a hat or kerchif to catch sweat. Remember, although it will be cold, you will be working up a sweat.

- Mary

Andria said...

Yes! I'm so excited for your blog!!! It really is a great way to get started and to stay motivated.

Layers, layers, layers!!! I don't wear "running pants" because I don't like the noise they make. I wear yoga pants. It's hard to find the right balance for clothing, but it's just a matter of trial and error to find what you are comfortable in. I often wear shorts and a long sleeve t-shirt if it's between 50-65. Lately in the cold I wear pants and t-shirt with a sweat shirt over it.

Hat's are good, but things that just cover your ears are good too. I like those because after a bit your head gets warm in a hat, but my ears are always cold in this weather.

Okay, I'm so excited for your trip to the shoe store. Can't wait to read it!!!

MoonFreckle said...

Good for you! I will have to think about joining you too! Maybe not in 8 days, but for round 2.

K80K said...

Congrats on taking up running. The Disney Marathon is a fantastic goal. Good luck with your 5K. I am with everyone else on the layers. Be sure to try your outfit out in a training walk before you wear it during the race to make sure it is comfortable for covering a distance.

Joy | Love | Chaos said...

Yeah! Good for you to take the plunge and try something new and scary...AND AMAZING!

I'm a bigger gal myself and started the process of getting healthy three years ago. I will never forget strapping my running shoes on the first time and trying to run. And then promptly walking. It can be discouraging at first, but it's SO WORTH IT! Keep at it, even when you think it's not for you.

My first few months of "run" was more walking than running and lots of shorter distances. Fast forward three years and I have three half ironman distances scheduled this year and am shooting for the regional Athena (150+ lb women's division) award by season end. Who knew??

Can't wait to follow all of your successes this year. YOU GO GIRL!!

SargeInNorman said...

Congratulations on getting the blog up. I am very proud of you, and all my sisters, for the running inspiration and motivation. The Disney Marathon by Andria was a kick in the butt for me too. I can not wait to hear how your 5k goes. My 1/2 marathon is April 27 in OKC. My "runs" right now are also more like walks. Yet I know that as I keep it up, the weight will go down some, which will allow for the speed to go up, and hopefully more weight to go down. Sorry I can't be there to support you and Mary in person at the 5k, but there is this thing called the Super Bowl I must contend with. I am sure you understand.

Bobby

Ken said...

Way to go Lois!

I run in Brooks Beast. I have tried several brands. I am a severe overpronator who needs the best motion control shoe on he market. My secondary sho is the Saucony Hurricanes.

Ken