Training with TNT starts at 8 am next Saturday with a 3-mile group run. With that in mind, I decided that today would be the day I would get over my fear of running outdoors (due to a staggering trip-and-fall rate). So, off to the local high school track I went. Flat surface, limited trip hazards, how hard could this be?
Let's just say I feel like I am on a reality show and about to step into the confessional to tell-all about the experience:
I suppose I can start with the positive because the list is pretty short: I did complete the 2.5 miles I attempted (in sort of a walk/run shuffle) plus I stayed on my feet the whole time. That's the good part. The rest, well, it was an eye-opener!
Running outdoors is a LOT harder than running on a treadmill. Not only is the treadmill more kind to my feet and joints, I really understand just how much "help" I get from the moving belt. Running on the track, though, made me incredibly aware of each pound of excess weight that I am carrying around and evoked a sense of shame I feel because of it.
I learned a few tough lessons at the track today. First, running outdoors is not about putting one foot in front of the other. It is about having the mental courage to tell your brain to get your feet moving. It was amazing that each time I thought my body wanted to stop or walk or rest, I could always go a little further as soon as I stoked the mental furnace.
The second lesson from today was about being honest with myself. Over the years, I may have been able to fool others about my commitment to change, but the results (or lack of) speak for themselves. When I was running on the track this morning, I wanted to hide from myself. It hit me hard that in order to make the changes I want to make in my overall health and well-being, there are some habits to break and some hard work to be done. Until now, I have been all talk and no action. That needs to change right now.
On a bright note, I really did enjoy working out in the sunshine of the beautiful and unseasonably warm morning. I couldn't help but think, that the next time I will be running in shorts and a tank top will be next spring, when all of this will seem like a distant memory.
Until next time,
Lisa
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Exercising/training come in multiple steps and levels and reality is right there!! I don't have as grand a goal as you but am also trying to start an exercise regimen for myself. I am doing so because I promised my diabetes doc that I would....he's been after me to exercise for at least a decade now....!!
ReplyDeleteI have gone to the track 2-3 times a week for 2 weeks now. I have only walked 2 miles each time and but did RUN for 2 laps on my last venture. It was quite an accomplishment for me. But I completely understand your statement above about the mental part...I told myself I could make it to the next turn then the next one...and I did it. Made me smile!!
I would be glad to exercise with you whenever we can work it out. I could stop by on my way home during the week or if you're down my way we can hit my high school track.
Go Lisa!! You can do it and I'll do what I can to help. :->