How I did it: Ok. So 6 weeks ago I could barely run 1/4 mile. Yesterday I did a little over 3. I am sooo happy. Basically I teamed up with my husband to accomplish this goal. He knew that over the past year I had gotten really out of shape. (Cardiovascular and otherwise) and also knew that I wanted to run a 5K (eventually) So he has been encouraging to get out to the trail and PUSH myself more and more each time.
I really believe that's the key: not giving up when it feels uncomfortable, or when it gets really hot/sticky/bothersome etc...
Like Nike used to say :Just do it.
The discomfort is temporary. Everything is temporary.
OK--So I didn't run a marathon or anything. (But in my mind this is might as well have been, because I thought it was "un-accomplishable" for me!)
And I'm not saying to run despite of pain. Pain, real pain is a warning to stop because something isn't quite right. But discomfort is just a  sign that you are approaching a threshhold.
I feel great in seeing how far my endurance has gone is such a relatively short period of time.
Imagine what can be done over a significant period of time!

Lessons & tips: Tips: Drink plenty of fluids, don't eat right before running (trust me) Find a pretty trail or scenery.
Good Shoes!
Also, if you are running and are totally exhausted, don't come to a sudden stop and lower your head (trust me as well) Keep your head up and walk briskly until your heart rate return to a (semi) normal pace. I know it sounds nuts, but it works. (Never under estimate the importance of a cool down)
Last but not least: sometimes someone to to buddy with is the answer because it makes you accountable for your progress.

Oct 17, 2008, 06:07AM PDT | 2 comments | 6 cheers