Running-Positive thoughts yield positive results & NEVER think you can’t

I have a coworker who a few months ago (early July) mentioned they were going to enter a 10k. Next thing I knew my untrained, hadn’t run a mile in more than nine months self, agreed to do the same.

I guess it was some inner competitiveness and not wanting to accept the fact that a peer could accomplish a feat of physical fitness that I could not as well. But really, what was I thinking?!

For purposes of full disclosure I work out a good deal, I lift weights and may do 20 minutes on the bike at a time. However, neither of these provide you with the cardiovascular endurance needed for running. My self-proclaimed physically fit self soon realized this.

I quickly jumped in with two feet because I had 2 months to do a 10k!

I first signed up for every local race I could find. One, than another, than another….

The races were:

July 23rd Packanack Lake 5K

Aug 20th Born to Run 5k

Sept 5th Arboretum Run

Sept 11th Tunnels to Towers 5k Run

Sept 18th Brian’s Run

Oct 10th Spartan Run

And after becoming slightly addicted I think there may be more.  And it’s a great way to teach your kids about fitness.  Cael loves going to the races too!

When I got to the first race I was a little intimidated by the “real runners” in their running gear and running club and track team jerseys…but I was determined (although a little scared) to hold my own.

The first race definitely could use a lot of improvement

7/23 time- 28:36. I was determined to do better next time

8/20- 26:22 (goal was 27)

9/5 – 25:39 (goal was 25:30)

9/11(goal is 24:59)

9/18 (goal is 60:00)

10/10 (goal is 24)

Once one race ends I get so excited for the next one. There’s nothing like setting a goal and trying to accomplish it to make you feel on top of the world!

Poll- What’s your favorite protein

Determination, Persistence, Success

Determination, Persistence, Success

Keep steadily before you the fact that all true success depends at last upon yourself. Theodore T. Hunger

I start every Monday thinking it is going to be the best week ever . A great start to a great week is a great workout. It makes your body feel strong, your mind feel strong and gives you the energy you need to get moving in the right direction.

Diet. A great week includes a great diet. Again, gives you the energy you need to accomplish great things, complements your great workout and feeling good about what you eat also shows pride in your well being. Obviously your diet effects how your body looks, and I truly think that how you look on the outside has an effect on how you feel on the inside.

Powerful positive thinking throughout the day. As most people I enjoy a good motivational quote. I won’t lie, I LOVE them. I think a quick reminder of the path you are on and the goals you wish to achieve are little things that can keep you on track. Just like the importance of surrounding yourself with positive people. The old saying, together we achieve more is so true. Nobody is an island, everyone needs a little support, encouragement, and praise. When you have a good network of friends, family or coworkers who either share your goals and ambitions or who cheer you on its that little extra something that can give you a boost on days you may be feeling more sluggish than others.

The twin sister to a good workout….a good night’s sleep. I almost feel like I start thinking delusional thoughts when I am going on very little sleep. To the contrary, a good nights rest, followed by the routine above…gym, strong feelings of body and mind, positive thinking…gives me the energy to feel like I can conquer my world by accomplishing all I set out to do that day/week.

And it’s as simple as that.