For the past couple of weeks, I've been really getting back into running. I certainly am not at the level I was a couple of months ago, but I've been so amazed at how well my body/legs/mind are bouncing back into the running groove!
That being said, I'm really, really trying to make an effort not to overdo it. It's actually really nice running on my own time, and not being in what I call "training mode" - aka run every day, no matter what. I'll admit that I really miss those long runs, but hey, gotta have goals. Goals are fun! I've been enjoying a variety of exercise - running, walking, yoga, strength, and ciirrccuiitts, my new love!
Julie's are my favorites!
I have almost no regrets about running, but if I had to pick one, it would be how I handled my running hiatus. I tried not to let it come through on the blog, but I was very frustrated, and I hated it. I didn't allow myself to enjoy the relaxation and repairing of my body. Yeah, physically I was at rest, but mentally, I was not. Every day I thought about running in some shape or form. Transitioning from 35-40 miles/week to nothing but walking/resting proved really difficult for me to handle.
Guys, I wasted so. much. time and energy worrying about exercise. I really wish I had just realized that it was good for me, and focused on other things like having more time to spend with my family, and enjoying other forms of exercise such as walking. I didn't "lose endurance" (well, I did, but not as much as I feared), I didn't become a couch potato, and although I looovee other activities, I still really do have the running bug.
After getting rained on!!
The past two months have been such a learning experience for me. I wanted to share with you guys my current tentative fitness plan - I really, really like plans and they help me stay motivated, but I've made it really flexible (ie, no specific times/distances). I made sure to incorporate rest days, because I really do thrive on them. I am definitely going to enjoy those days off!
Here's how I broke it down: 3-4 days of running, 2 rest days, and 1 day of cross-train (something other than running).
For example, this week:
Sun: 30 min circuit, 20 min strength (arms+legs)
Mon: 3.5 mile run
Tues: 4 mile run, strength (arms+abs)
Wed: Rest
Thurs: 4 mile run
Fri: 2.5 mile run, .5 mile walk, strength (arms+legs)
Sat: Rest
Clearly, I most enjoy running and working out my arms. I think because I ran 4 times this week, I'll just run 3 this week, but again, I'm mostly going off of what my body is feelin'. Heads up: I'm still planning on using Hal Higdon's plan, but that will be in Jan/Feb most likely. Goals, goals, goals!
Now that I've gotten that out of me, I'm feeling really good about it! :) I've got a lot of fun stuff planned today and this weekend....minus studying.
Have an awesome weekend, loves!
So happy to hear that you've become comfortable with all different forms of exercise, intense or not-so-intense. I've learned the exact same thing in this past month. Circuits are my absolute FAVORITE (Julie's are awesome!), but I've chosen to decrease the intensity for a while to see how my body responds. I think my body appreciates not being pushed to its limit day after day. Working out has been more enjoyable that way :)
ReplyDeleteThe decrease in intensity has been so good for my body, and now that the "hard part" is over, I appreciate it sooo much more. I'm glad you realize your body appreciates it, and it does make working out something enjoyable rather than a chore. :))
DeleteI didn't know you were a runner! Yayy :) after I do a race and I'm not training for anything I always am so stressed too. I always forget it's good for my body to rest! It's weird not having a training schedule though. I just kind of do what ever!
ReplyDeleteI am indeed!! I get stressed when I don't have a plan in general, so this has been quite the learning experience. I've mentioned it a lot, but I really suggest taking a look at the Winter Running Program - it's structured, but also extremely flexible, so it's not really a training schedule. Check it out if you want!! :)
DeleteYou have the cutest running gear!! I'm just trying to start running again too, pre-season for track. I think I have lost endurance or this 21DSD is impacting my running because it's a lot harder than it was a month ago :( I'm so glad you have such a healthy plan to get back into it.
ReplyDeleteThank you! I get most of mine from Kohls. I'm sorry to hear that running has been harder - maybe it's a combination of reasons. My first advice (from my own experience) would be to take at least a couple of days off, if you haven't already! :)
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