Tuesday, February 16, 2010

5k--really?

Remember that time, about a year and a half ago, when I declared a new running hobby? Well, since most of you reading this probably haven't read that far back, here's that declaration.

Want to know how much I've cultivated that hobby? Well. It's a year and a half later and I really haven't done much with it. Up until the beginning of this semester, I never ran.

In all honesty, I really don't like running overly much. That's not to say  I can't run, because I can. Don't you worry. I just get bored with it. Everytime I go to the gym, I run on the treadmill. I've found it's the only form of exercise I've found to be effective. The eliptical and bikes never even break a sweat on me, so a few months ago I decided that if I actually wanted to lose weight, I had to get over myself and start running. And it's actually paid off. I've lost 6 pounds in the past few weeks...Let me tell you, it's definitely worth it.

But, back to the running thing. I think running is kind of boring, and I find myself just staring at the clock on the treadmill. Despite what you may think, that doesn't make time go faster. It just makes me almost cry out of boredom. As a result, I decide to start walking. Time goes faster when I walk. Needless to say, I really haven't become an all-star runner quite yet. It's not my fault I get so incredibly bored.

Anyways, after reading that, this next statement may come as a surprise.

I'm going to start training to 5K that will take place in May.

Why? I have no idea. But today when I was driving to school, I saw a sign advertising for the Provo City 5K, and I couldn't stop thinking about it. So I asked my sister, Kristalyn, if she wanted to run in it with me, and she enthusiastically agreed. She then told me about another one in June that I could run in with her and her friend if I wanted. And so I agreed. So, starting next Monday, I will start an intensive 8-week running program. Am I crazy? Yes. But I want to prove I can do this, and become a better runner. And hopefully I'll lose even more weight because of it. That will be an added plus.

I'm kind of nervous, but excited at the same time. I mentioned it to Forrest, and he seemed to agree to run as well. He told me about a podcast called "From couch to 5K" and it sounds pretty awesome. The people who created it claim that anyone can run a 5K after using the program. So we'll see how that goes. It's about time I start challenging myself physically, rather than just staying in my comfort zone. You never grow if you don't do hard things eh?

So, for all you blog readers out there, if you've run a 5K (or more), any tips that may be helpful? As of right now, all I have is some kick butt running shoes.

Wish me luck!

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5 comments:

Lindsay said...

K first of all - your blog is SO cute! I love the name "I'm Just Sayin..." haha excellent.

Second - i miss you. Nuff said

Third - Running advice? Here is my thought on the subject. First of all- ipod with specific 'running music' obviously. I trust you with this :)
I dont like running on treadmills because, like you, I think it makes time stop and you feel like you've been running forever and it's only been 2 minutes. I prefer running on a track or REALLY love running outside - distracts me more and isn't ever boring.
running on a track: I set a goal of how many times i'm going to go around and stick to it. At each point after a turn I pick up the pace just a few steps- just in case i've slowed down so I can stay at a good steady pace. Or if you want an extra challenge - try sprinting on the straight parts every once in a while.
running outside: I guess just do whatever you want. I go places with different elevations and stuff- just to mix it up. Not a long straight street-Boring!
running in general: Running is basically all about your mindset. Try not to focus too much on how hard your breathing, how sweaty you are or that you can't make it past that next tree... Try to think about other stuff or try to have a goal and dont let anything else stop you.
Hopefully that helps and I dont just sound like an idiot. haha
Good luck Katie! Let me know how it goes!

Diana said...

I'm so proud of you Katie!! I know you can do it! I have heard about the couch to 5K program. It seems really great. I wish I was there to do it with you and Kristalyn! Good luck!!

Vanessa said...

You go girl! You are going to rock that 5k!

Anna Fabian said...

i did cross country in high school, and the thing that really helps is just diving in and pushing yourself every day when you run... before you start, decide how many miles you want to run, and stick to it, no matter how hard it is near the end! good luck! :)

Anonymous said...

I do about a 5k every friday courtesy of ROTC :)
The best thing I can say is run outside, you usually don't have as hard of a time because you're not looking at the clock and the amount of time you ran. Also, don't sprint right away, keep a steady pace. And good luck! :)