The last time I actually went out for a run was Christmas Day 2016. CJ and I did 4 miles that day. Since then a few things have led to my running cessation. Weather is a huge factor. I am a fairweather runner, and I’m not afraid to admit it (obviously)! If I am not in training for a race, I am going to run when weather conditions are ideal for me. I run because I enjoy it. If I have to run (ie: training for a race and need to get in a particular training run to stay on course) especially in windy conditions, it no longer brings me joy so I just don’t do it!
Another factor that has led to my decline in miles is my goal for 2017. I decided that I wanted to focus more on strength in 2017. The plan I am following has me strength training 4 days a week with 30-45 minutes of cardio 2-3 times a week. I’m still teaching group ex classes so I count my cardio as POUND training or teaching. Occasionally I might add in a little something here and there if/when I need to, like an at home workout video. So far, that “here and there” has not had anything to do with running.
My available “free time” is practically non-existent any more. I have time tonight because I am neglecting spending time with Chris, the love of my life and my biggest supporter. He and I don’t see each other much lately and I hate that. Whenever we are both home at the same time I unplug and go offline. I have let my job, my ventures and my side gigs take over my life in the past. It has created quite a rift in our relationship in the past (both of us were guilty). We both swore to never let that happen again; to always make time for us. We were able to spend a lot of quality time together all of last weekend, so we are both letting each other catch up on other things (like blogging for me!) this week.
I have also become exceptionally irritable lately. So much so that even I am noticing it. I have some female hormone disorders so I’m used to having mood fluctuations regularly, but it’s been a continuous sour attitude for at least the last 2 weeks. I am sure my hormones might be a factor, but I really think that my lack of running might have something to do with it. Running really is very therapeutic!
Run for the Animals is scheduled for Sunday April 2nd this year! For those of you who know me or have been following me for some time know that this is MY race! It was the first race I entered after I made the decision to take up running again and to get healthy. It was the perfect venue for me given my passion for animals! I have run the race every year since its beginning, and plan to continue to do so for as long as I am able. I wasn’t really worried about training for it this year, its 6th year, because I though I was pretty well conditioned, have been staying active just in a different form, and I plan to run just the 10K this year. Piece of cake, right? I mean I did 1,000 + miles in 2016, I’ve run several 5Ks, 10Ks, 10 milers and a marathon. I can surely survive a 10K with little to no training. Right?
This week I was learning some new POUND tracks to introduce to my class. I realized that after the warm-up, and especially into the first track I was becoming very winded! It was a noticeable windedness. I didn’t like that feeling. Not. One. Bit. There’s no way I’ll be able to run 6.2 miles without reconditioning myself. And now time is of the essence.
I am and always will be a fairweather runner. But now I know that I need to run. My body needs it! My mind needs it. The people in my life need me to need it. I need to make sure it happens at least once a week. Tomorrow I will re-embark on my running journey! And I vow to never give it up for more than a week (enough time to recoup from a race or a minor injury) ever again. You are all my witnesses and can help to keep me accountable!
AnimalWhiz 