week 7 run 2 & handling body dysmorphia

[runnergirl1992]

What a contrasting feeling with my last post! Today I was dreading the 25 minute run because of last weeks ''failure''. I took a 3 day break, waited until the heatwave passed, and learnt to eat a small pasta meal 3 hours before going out (learning that carbs are my new friend!)

Not running for three days helped me heal physically and emotionally and got me back the confidence I needed. I ended up running for 31.30 minutes and covered a distance of 4,67 km. It was also my first realization that I could aim for a 5k in 32 minutes, but a 30 min/5km won't (and can't) be my goal; which is fine!

Also, last night was the first time I dared to go out in shorts instead of long workout gear covering every inch of my body. What a difference it makes! I'm loving the process of running, how it is positively guiding me to not only become stronger physically, but I'm also gaining bravery, courage and a self esteem! I love how, instead how what I look like, I care about what my body is able to do.

Never thought that this is what c25k would bring me. Some simple self confidence

[Stephen_UK Graduate]

It’s miraculous, isn’t it? So pleased that the running is having these effects on all of us.

Those are very good times you are getting.

[Debston Graduate]

It's very liberating to focus on your body and what it can do (amazing things!), rather than what it looks like and what you would prefer it to look like. I have been reading a book about running recently (I know, I'm a saddo!) and it has these fascinating diagrams of the body and all the different muscles and what they do when you run. Made me see my legs etc in a whole new light!