What I know (one month in)
November was the month when I put a concerted effort into becoming a runner ..
As beginners (in nearly all sporting endeavors) tend to go out too hard, too fast which invariably leads to injury and an immediate halt in progress – I downloaded a 10k training program for Novices and ran whatever distance was programmed for that day.
Some days I was overjoyed to hear the Nike Running lady proclaim “you have reached your distance – 0 k’s to go” and other days (although not many) I was a rather disappointed as I was sure I could run at least another couple of k’s – In reality I probably couldn’t, but brownie points for putting those positive vibes out there Julz!
When I first started running, I dressed like a runner and just “faked it”. I’d go outside, put one foot in front of the other (too quickly), panted like a dog and tried not to die but as the month wore on there were at least a couple of days where I’ve felt like an “actual runner”.
After my first month of running I’ve learned the following;
You’ll run further if you are comfortable –
DO NOT – I repeat – DO NOT wear cotton tops when you run.
Also if you have to choose between wearing something that is slightly too small or slightly too big – go with too small, unless it’s running shoes then always go with a size bigger, just wear thicker Thorlos.
And on the subject of Thorlos – They’re a lot like Haviana’s until you get a pair you don’t quite get why they are so damn expensive – believe you me, they are worth every cent.
Failing to prepare is preparing to fail –
Electronic devices must be charged! Also don’t use the shit Garmin that takes longer to find a satellite than it would have taken you to run your entire designated route.
Your pace doesn’t necessarily mean squat –
I can run for a longer period of time at a faster pace when I run outside on a road/trail. For some reason a 7min kilometre feels quick on a treadmill but outside a 7min kilometre usually means I’m going up a hill. I can however sprint much faster on a treadmill (or should I say I can pick up my feet faster while a belt spin quickly underneath them).
You just never know –
The days when you REALLY don’t want to will generally be the days where you’ll have the best run ever. You’ll feel like you could run a million miles (or at least 6.2 of them) because you’re flying and running is your bitch!
Alas this will not always be the case, after all – life is like a box of chocolates!
It get’s easier (kind of) –
I’ve honestly looked at those motivational quotes that state “It never gets easier – you just get better” and rolled my eyes, but I think they could in fact be onto something ..
Over the course of the past month I’ve been able to increase the distance I could run before I hit the “omg I have how much further?” point, but I wouldn’t in any way, shape or form say that running has become easier, so perhaps I really am just getting better at this running shit. 😉
Today someone told me they were proud of me (and my running efforts) and I’ve gotta say, I’m pretty impressed with my stickability too!
Till next time
