Running Away from My Problems (Literally): A Couch to 5K Journey
Running Away from My Problems (Literally): A Couch to 5K Journey
Remember when I nearly passed out in hot yoga? Well, apparently that wasn't enough physical punishment, because I've decided to take up running. And not just any running – I"m doing Couch to 5K, a program that (according to recent research) only about 35% of people actually complete. I like those odds! (She said, sarcastically.)
The Inspiration Phase It started, as most terrible ideas do, with a New Year's resolution and too much wine. "I should get in shape!" I declared to my cat, who gave me the same look she gives when I suggest she stop knocking things off my nightstand. After spending way too long hiding in the gym stretches area, I figured running might be better – at least outside, no one can tell if you're doing it wrong. Right?
Day 1 Reality Check Fun fact: studies show that new runners face major mental hurdles with motivation and self-doubt. To which I say: NO KIDDING. My first "run" consisted of me wheezing like a broken accordion while my fitness app cheerfully suggested I "pick up the pace." The audacity.
The Public Running Shame Here's something they don't tell you about running in public: everyone feels like they're watching you. They're not – they're too busy focusing on their own fitness goals (science says so!) – but try telling that to my anxiety-riddled brain when I'm red-faced and panting past the local café's outdoor seating.
The Tiny Improvements Somewhere between "I'm dying" and "I might survive this," something magical happened. I could run for more than 30 seconds without questioning all my life choices. I even started looking forward to my runs (who am I?). Maybe this is what they mean by intrinsic motivation – though I'm pretty sure my primary motivation is still being able to eat more pizza.
The 5K Attempt Remember how I said I was training for ski season last fall? This feels worse. But somehow, after weeks of gradually increasing my running time (and my collection of neon workout gear), I attempted my first 5K. Did I break any records? Only if you count "most times stopping to 'admire the scenery'" as a category.
Are you a runner or a 'runner'? How long before walking doesn't count? Because right now, I'm counting everything from speed-walking to "chasing after the bus" in my weekly mileage. Judge me if you must, but at least I'm moving!
(P.S. If you see someone in bright yellow leggings pretending to stretch while catching their breath near the park, no you didn't. Mind your business.)