But I'm actually doing some serious planning ahead for 2011. Because I'm going to run 13.1 miles in May and it is going to take some serious work and training and commitment to accomplish that goal. As part of my training, I'll be running a 5K, a 10K, and a 15K in the months leading up to the race. I have decisions to make. I'm looking at Hal Higdon and Jeff Galloway for training programs. I've been a slacker the past few weeks. Christy has been nursing a sciatic thing so we haven't been running but we were still working out a few times each week. This past week, however, I was a total slacker in terms of diet and exercise. I knowingly chose to take an entire week off because I know I have to kick my routine and choices into high gear so I can prepare for the half-marathon. So I'm going to work out my diet and training plan and share it here. Maybe someone out there will want to join me- FitCity is launching a "Fit Friends" thing so maybe you'll sign up for that and we can be "fit friends" as we train together.
Here's what I'm not finding in all of my preparation and planning and reading... a step by step program to overcome the mental battles involves with running. I suppose that's because the mental battles are somewhat unique to each runner. So much of running is mental and attitude and I've been beating myself up a bit and it's part of why I took a little break. I was getting really negative and down on myself and that certainly doesn't lend to ever having a good run. First step, though, is to take back control of the things I know I can control. I'm sure I'll be working through those mental struggles on the blog soon enough.
Food as Fuel I need to get back to seeing food as fuel. Nights out for sushi and wine need to be limited. In fact, I need to get a lot of my food choices in check and get back to the eating clean that leaves me feeling good. The great thing about blogging is that I can go back and look at when I was feeling the most successful and find the foods that were working for me then. Foods like... Cottage cheese, grapefruit, spinach, squash, avocado, strawberries, bananas, broccoli, brussels sprouts, chicken, fish, and veggie loaded salads. Fruits, veggies, lean proteins. It's easy, really. Today, I'm going to the grocery store to stock up on healthy options for the week ahead.
Consistent, Daily Activity Running, strength training, yoga, stretching, walking, and active play. When I do those things, life is better for everyone. My kids and I haven't played an evening of "Just Dance" in a while and we not only had fun but also burned calories when that was a regular part of our routine. Same for the Wii Fit- I'd gotten away from using it at all and it's something we enjoy that is also beneficial as an added bit of activity. Today, I'm creating a training plan. Tomorrow, Christy and I start back to the gym. What works for us is a 5 day a week plan. Tuesday and Thursday we will do a class with Bridget. Monday, Wednesday, Friday we will run. Maybe one of those days will be an easier workout of stretching and walking- maybe. Saturday will be my longer run time. Sunday can be a day of rest- but still include activity with the kids.
Support from Friends, Supporting my Friends Another key are the positive words I get from others and the opportunity to support others. Having a network of people who are working together to make better choices just feels powerful. It isn't so much about accountability or anything. The only person I feel accountable to is myself. But when I know that people find inspiration from my choices and when I know that I've been inspired by someone else's choices and accomplishments... that network feels so strong! Today, I'm asking you to be part of my network. Maybe you're going to start running or want to get back on track or just want to cheer from the sidelines... but let's do it together.
6 comments:
I have never been a runner, I actually HATE running. Even when I played college tennis I would always find a way to get out of running. So, I will cheer you from the sidelines. Go Liz!
I'm in Liz! I am running the Geist Mini, and could benefit to make healthier food choices, and make foods to help my hubbie lower his blood pressure and cholesterol levels. This year, I would like to also focus on lifting weights. Something I don't enjoy.
You know me. I'm all about the goals.
I think these are awesome! I have to say that you have really motivated me to get more serious about exercise. I go with my friends, but you really motivate me with all the success you've had and how much you've fallen in love with it.
The mental side of running was an obstacle for me for a VERY long time. If you look back through my blog- I talk about it some.
After a particularly rough run where I had beat myself up mentally (you can't do it, you'll never do it, you're fat and slow and yadda yadda) - I decided that I was not going to tolerate the negative support from myself anymore. I know it sounds a little silly- but I tell that voice to shut up now. When I have a moment of "I Can't" I will say (sometimes out loud) "SHUT UP! You can- you have- and you WILL." Then I feel powerful and able. Another thing I tell myself is "I've done this distance so many times (2 miles, 5k, whatever) - you've proven you can- so 'you can't' isn't a possibility anymore" It doesn't mean every run is a good one- but it means you can shrug them off now.
I look forward to training for the Mini with you this year and CELEBRATING! when we get to the end!
Good luck to you Liz! I know you'll have a great 2011 because YOU will go for it!
I am back on track as well. I'm ready to kick those last 30 pounds off and then who knows! I love that we can look back and see what works. No need to re-invent the wheel...just reflect back!
I'm going to try and log 50 miles per month. I'm back to lots of water! 100 ounces per day is my goal, and I started that 1/2.
Keep talking to us...we're out here listening, and you motivate us and I hope to do the same for you!
I'm excited to see you meet your goals, Liz!!
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