i hate running...day #4

Weight: 165 lbs
Goal: 140-145lbs
Difference: 20lbs-25lbs
Distance: 8.0k 1 hour (Ran- 40 minutes/Walk- 20 minutes)

I admit day four came faster than I had expected, however I woke up with a renewed energy (and a slightly smaller Ganglion Cyst after carefully pounding it down with the Gita to flatten it out- jk). i have definitely been feeling the effects of running all over my body and was looking forward to seeing how far we could push ourselves this morning. As we started our trek I could already notice an increase in our initial pace and a slight decreases in excuses, complaints and time checks. We worked a couple run for 3 minute walk for 1, but overall stuck to the plan of the 2:1 ratio given that the giggle factor that often discourages me was still very much present on the lower half of my body. I was very surprised to see that I could maintain the pace we started with, and was smiling ear to ear when we passed the 7k mark. Near the end of the run I almost felt as though I probably could have gone a little further (don't tell Jake). No real 'Snow White' moments regarding the wildlife of Stanley Park (whom I genuinely believe are trying to impede upon my progress). A friend suggested that since starting this challenge that I should set a goal of running the Sun Run next year or doing an Iron Man or some crap like that. As a person who loves to inspire I will consider possibly running in something someday...however my short term goals with running currently include; running without thinking about throwing myself onto rocks when we try and jog up any minor incline and not wanting to give up every 4-6 seconds. So let's me patient fans. Who knows I may surprise you.

i hate running...day #3

Weight: 165 lbs
Goal: 140-145lbs
Difference: 20lbs-25lbs
Distance: 7km 1 hour (Ran- 35 minutes/Walk 25 minutes)

Well here we are again, day three. After almost tripping over 3 pigeons (and what i thought was an albino duck), Jake and I began are quest to conquer the seawall (and by conquer the seawall I mean my size 6 jeans). We began around the crack of noon (it would have been earlier but I had about 40 excuses methodically laid out), we ended up going the same distance (3.5km) in less time! which was great! when we turned around for the other half of our 'marathon of hope'...it hit. Please if you are not sitting down you may want to.

Katie Murphy (Kitsilano's running & food expert expert to the stars i.e. me) informed me that I have developed what is called a ganglion cyst (also known as a Bible cyst which comes from a common urban legend that treatment in the past has consisted of pounding on the cyst with a Bible or another large book) on the front of my shin. Fear not fans...it essentially looks like a little bruise (but packs a punch when grazed by one of the 400 tame animals that leap out of Stanley Park- trying to sabotage my quest for fitness). Side note; right around the time I noticed the cyst I couldn't help but also notice my calves had seized to the size of apricots.

So let me paint a picture...Jake and I are half way around the seawall and I'm walking like I haven't gotten off a horse in about 26 years...there's animals everywhere...some odd photo-shoot involving a girl in a small bikini, and a guy trying to pass me on a unicycle. Mayhem. Why am I doing this again?

More to come.

i hate running....day #2

Weight: 167 lbs
Goal: 140-145lbs
Difference: 22lbs-27lbs
Distance: 7km 1 hour (Ran- 40 minutes/Walk 20 minutes)

So day two, I peeled myself out of bed a little early (to ensure that I had some recovery time before work)...we started on our adventure, continuing with the 2 minute/1 minute routine we committed to. Today was noticeably a bit easier, its seems as though I am developing a bit of 'style'. I still get a little discouraged (and mentally give up about 6 times), Jake is really awesome about being patient and not taking any of my excuses (or pleas for a break). I wouldn't say I'm anywhere near to actually 'liking' running...I think I am entering the hopeful/tolerating stage. The view and wildlife around the seawall almost cancel the feeling of exhaustion and impossibility. something i have noticed is the wildlife in Vancouver is dramatically different then that of Toronto. Since moving here I have almost stepped on 3 skunks, 4 raccoons, 2 squirrels and I am convinced if I put my hand out a finch will more than likely land on it. I feel like Snow White with dreads. More to come.

i hate running day #1

Weight: 168 lbs
Goal: 140-145lbs
Difference: 23lbs-28lbs
Distance: 6km 1 hour (Ran- 40 minutes/Walk 20 minutes)

So day one is behind me...thank god. Despite asking Jake every 5 seconds (for the first 15 minutes) when it was time to walk I think I did okay. It was easier then I thought it would be at the beginning- although once we got really into a few of the inclines I debated throwing myself into the ocean...and a pile of rocks...and into a pile of wood. I started feeling everything jiggle (which is what I hate most about running), although because I was running with someone at a pace where we could still chat I feel like it diverted my attention (periodically). All in all I feel energized and looking forward to my next run, I think. I have also began changing my eating habits and will include my challenges and opportunities as a forgo my transformation into the best physical version of myself.

i hate running......

So i was walking across the burrard bridge on my way to work...i couldn't help but notice the fresh breeze coming off the ocean..the moon still peeking out behind the clouds...when all of a sudden i was almost trampled by 40 or 50 'runners'. Now I should tell you since moving to Vancouver I have avoided running at all costs (which is ironic because the first yoga class i taught was 'yoga for runners'). I have made up every excuse from being too out of shape, too being bored and overall just not interested in running (unless it was away from something). After discussing my concerns with a few friends I have decided that maybe I haven't given running a fair chance. They assured me that once I started a regular routine that I would love it...and be a full addict. So I have decided to challenge myself and give running a fair try...so Friday March 19th I will start voluntarily being out of breath, sweaty and cold, achy and disoriented for an hour a day. That's right, Friday I will start to 'run' (ahem- walk/run to start of course). I will be sure to document everything so you too can live my pain.

luv
Oli