I started running about a week and a half ago. I've gone 5 days out of the last10, so I guess thats a good start. I haven't ever really liked running before now. I always liked the idea of it, but the execution just seemed too daunting. So, I liked to talk a good game, but didn't really ever do it. There are a few things though, that I was lacking at the time of my lip service towards running, like:
- Running shoes: I used to wear these Sketchers that I got forever ago to run in. They were cross trainers and were great to wear to the gym when I was lifting or something, but frankly sucked A** when it came to running in them. My feet would fall asleep every. single. time. I ran. no lie. So, this time I got myself some running shoes to wear for this adventure of mine. They aren't super duper fancy, but they are "running shoes", intended for running and they make all the difference in the world.
- Jogger Stroller: I also used to think that a jogger stroller was a jogger stroller and that they are all the same, so why waste money on a higher end stroller if I can get the same thing for a lot less. Boy, oh, Boy was I wrong on that account. A jogger stroller that is made well for jogging makes so much more sense to me now. The stroller that I use now I can push with my finger. My first jogger stroller felt like I was hauling 40 extra pounds with me and I only had one kind then, now I have two and I hardly even notice the weight they both carry.
- Eating right: I've been studying a lot about runners and their techniques for gearing up to run. I read about Bobby Flay who, in case you don't know... is a chef on Food Network. I love Bobby Flay. Bobby also happens to be a runner. He was interviewed and said that the reason he runs is because he loves to eat. I don't know why in all my years of cooking I never thought that... until Bobby. I too love to eat and cook and bake and, and, and... so, of course I should run because of it. Now with this new epiphany I am trying to make more wholesome things to eat. I don't succeed all of the time, but I'm learning and experimenting and trying to find new things to make and enjoy that will help me in my new running adventures. With a few cookies along the way.
- Drinking water: I have always had a love/hate relationship with water. When I'm all fueled to try a new diet or something I am on the water thing like crazy... and then I get totally burned out with water and don't drink any. at. all. So, I am trying to take water in moderation. I try to drink a quart at least an hour before I go out for a run and another quart when I get home. I still am not great at the water thing, but am seriously making efforts to improve myself in this regard.