So, back in August I decided to focus my cardio workouts on running. I'd always done a little bit in the gym between this elliptical and stationary bike--but I find I get really bored in the gym, on top of which I could stop anytime and just be done with it. I did alright in the gym, but I thought--'If I take it outdoors, no matter where I run--I still have to turn around and run home. Can't just stop in the middle'. Like I said, not that I ever really did that, I kept motivated through the gym boredom, but I found this approach more to my liking.
That being said, it's been just about two months of picking up running (nearly) everyday.
In August, I started sporadically on the 7th, and by the end of the month had hit just under 30 miles. Started with 12:48/mile time. When it was super hot I had to slow down a bit to try to get more air in/get over being overheated. Could not run to the top of some bigger hills.
Started September with a 12:28/mile time, and started to get addicted to it! What do they call it---something like the 'beast mode' was engaged--I don't know what happened but I went balls to the wall. I doubled my mileage in September to hit just over 60 miles ran and downed my mile time to 10:30-11/mi depending on how friggin' hot it was after work. Thank goodness we have a pool. I literally will jump in it with all my clothes after a run.
Starting off October with a bang, I am challenging myself to hit 75 miles this month. The way I figured I can pull it off, taking into account I don't hurt myself (knock on wood--so clumsy).
Other things I've noticed in 2 months of running:
-Not much in the aspect of weight loss. I mean, it's come down a little--certainly always want more, but I know I'm building some mean muscles, especially in my legs.
-Physically--I feel like the cellulite on the back of my legs has really reduced, which is awesome because I'm always self-conscious about my legs. Been able to run straight through all my runs--faster, without any side stitches coming up, and annihilating hills. Also--I am hungry all the god damn time. Now, I've been fueling myself well, solid balance of my carbs, fats, and protein (had to up that shit)--but my stomach seems to be like furnace--all of it burns up so quickly, and my tummy starts yelling at me. It's worse in the morning when I first get up. I try to hold off on eating until I can get my oatmeal/egg white sandwich in at work--but I'm almost famished if I do.
So, anyways there's that. I'm pretty proud of myself. I thought I was in pretty good shape when I started running full-time, since I do get a work-out in 6-7 times a week--but running was always something I wasn't great at. Now, I feel like a fucking animal when I finish a run!
Been thinking about signing up for a run, but kinda feel like it would be weird to go alone..? Is that weird? Always looked like people got groups to do 5k, 10k, half-marathons. At the same time--I do 5ks all the by myself after work--so it'd be cake, and it's usually for a good cause. Plus, you usually get a t-shirt--in my book, always a plus.
Alright, hope October is treatin' you guys well, so far! It's still gorgeous and in the high 80s here in Austin--love it.
As always,
Go Fork Yourselves,
Krissy
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