still going strong

[123gogo]

It's been awhile since I've posted though I continue to read the posts for pleasure and inspiration. Having completed the C25K programme in April, I have been faithfully consolidating my runs, continuing to run 3x/week for 30 minutes. It's going well. I'm changing up the routes, adding in hills, roads, shady routes and routes that will also be gentle to my knees. I use guided and non guided runs. And today I added 3 minutes of running. Basically, I'm playing around with it, trying to find what works for the day. I add in the occasional challenge and this week I managed to run my 'walking route' which entails a 0.8 km hill that is really steep at the end. The first time I tried it this week I ended up walking the last 10m. A couple of days later I tried it again and I did it!! Granted there was huffing and puffing getting up that last 50m but then it was downhill and I was fine!! I was quite chuffed. It's not a route I'll do every week but I will return to it regularly. It's tough-but worth it. What I have noticed is this- apart from the increase in stamina and endurance, I actually look forward to running. This was particularly obvious today. For a few reasons, I didn't get out the door as early as planned....it was near 11 am and already 20 degrees celcius. Sure, there was a moment of hesitation but the fact that I had already planned the route in my mind (a new route so a bit of a challenge) I was happy to get out there and try it. Granted, it was hot!! But I did it and I didn't waver too much beforehand. So maybe the habit is slowly getting ingrained in my mind and body.

I figure I'll do another month like this then my husband and I are planning a 1000 km (return trip) on our electric bikes so I won't be running for a couple of weeks. But that's okay....I'll get back at it when the cycling holiday is over.

Anyhow, just wanted to checkin to say that I'm still happily running and didn't give up after graduation....

Have a good day, all.....

[SueAppleRun Graduate]

Aren’t you doing well? good to see you are still running

[123gogo Graduate in reply to SueAppleRun]

you too, Sola....I've been keeping tabs on you and you seem to be enjoying your running/walking whatever distance and form it takes. Good news too about the return to work.....

[Vespina Graduate]

That’s great to hear that you’re sticking with it, mixing it up and planning new things. I found that really helpful to see what you’re doing as I’m right at the start of my consolidation runs. Thanks for sharing.

[123gogo Graduate in reply to Vespina]

Thanks Vespina. I think the greatest thing after graduation was the new found freedom! You can play with it, mix it up. And that's fun! Enjoy it and run safely.

[Vespina Graduate in reply to 123gogo]

Thanks. I’m looking forward to loosening up and trying that. I feel a bit adrift without a specific plan but I’m sure I will get used to it.

[shrinkingjaz Graduate]

This is so inspiring!

[123gogo Graduate in reply to shrinkingjaz]

Thanks shrinkingjaz....I think it's important not to put too much pressure on yourself. Our daily needs change and in order to make a long term/life long commitment, you need some flexibility, patience and understanding....

[shrinkingjaz Graduate in reply to 123gogo]

So well said!