Running Into Week 6

Well, here I am, six weeks in and still running.

When I began this quest to be a runner, I promised myself that I would try it for at least a month before I contemplated quitting. And then, if I made it through the first four weeks, I would push it out for another four weeks - or preferably until the end of term. A neat ten week block.

Much to my astonishment, I have not been tempted to quit at all. It took a long time for it to stop hurting - especially as my poor calves shrieked in agony with every step - but mostly it was getting over the hurt of making my body keep moving when it just wanted to stop. Hardest of all was finding the self-belief that I could do it, that I could run three minutes, five minutes, eight minutes...

Last week I ran 20 minutes without stopping. It was slow, but I was so proud of myself because I do not think I have ever run a full 20 minutes without stopping - almost 3km. Now that I know that I can do it, I'll see if I can increase the pace a little. So far, I have not even been close to an asthma attack - and have not had to use my inhaler mid-run since the first week. I cannot believe I can do this!

I still can't say I'm loving it, but I'm finding it addictive. I even bought a running magazine last week. Who knew such things existed?

Next run is 22 minutes without stopping. I can definitely do it! Give me another month and I might well be at that magic 5km mark.

Less Painful

Week 2 of this running program and it is all so much better. My legs don't ache nearly so much and it is actually getting easier. Yes, easier! This has come as a complete shock to me which means, I suppose, that all my previous attempts at fitness have never lasted more than, say, three days. Not when it comes to running anyway. So it was quite astonishing to discover that my fifth run was the magic one, the one where I managed to do all my repetitions without too much trouble at all. I didn't even swear during the walking bits!

This week of the program involves 90 seconds of running followed by 120 seconds of walking, and repeat for 20 minutes. So far, it's proving to be a little more challenging, but not nearly as difficult as the effort required last week to simply get started. I may be able to train up this old, aching body after all. I'm certainly motivated to keep going and see how much I can do.

My lungs are on board, my legs are on board, now I just need my knees to play along!