It's Not Much, But It's A Beginning And My Body Thanks Me For It

Here's the story of a middle aged lady called Sue who got on the treadmill today and ran for the first time in 4 months.  No, the theme from Rocky was not playing, more like The Pet Shop Boys and Quiet Riot on my Ipod.  But, it was inspiring music, and it helped me get through two miles before I stopped running.  I started out walking, moved up to 5.7 speed, then 6.0, then eventually had to slow back down again 'cause this out of shape body was in shock!  But every time I stopped to walk, I would make myself bump up the speed even more as a punishment.  So, the final .20 I ran at 6.5, which is me hoofing it.  It feels kinda good, though, cause you pick up your feet and move with those knees kicking up and your breath sounding like a train coming down the tracks.  

I didn't feel like I wanted to pass out, I got my heart rate up gradually and kept it up, and got an ugly sweat.  It helps that there are no bleeping fans turned on at the Y, so it's like running outside in the summer at about 80 degrees.  Yuck.  My legs felt like jelly, but I walked around the track a few times, then got on the bike and rode 3 miles.  I had to cut it short, cause I had so many errands to run this morning so I could get home and relax this afternoon.  I feel pleasantly sore from today's exercise and yesterday's upper body workout thanks to FitTV--my triceps are aching!  Seriously, it's a 27 minute workout that seems harmless, but works everything pretty well.

I am so happy I got on that damn treadmill.  It broke the barrier of anxiety and fear I've had for the last few months.  Once you've done well at running, then you blow it and have to start all over again, it's kinda tough to get into the mental game.  But I did, so now I can start keeping track of my mileage.  It will be slow progress, but it will happen.  

Off to make chicken soup for Bud, do laundry, finish a book, and take a nap!  And yes, I am eating Ding Dongs, along with a lovely cup of coffee.  Yum.