I ran for the first time this week in nine months. Not very far and not very fast but I consider it a step (literally) in the right direction. To become a better runner, you need to run. There's no way around that. You can condition all you want by working out on the ellitical trainer, walking, riding your bike or taking a cardio class but it still isn't running. In order to improve your fitness run time, you need to run.
On the quarter mile track, I ran, well, let's be honest, I slowly jogged a half a lap and then walked the other half. I did this for four laps. The first bit was tough but it actually got easier as I went on. Yes, I realize that I didn't even complete the 1.5 miles required for the fitness test but, then again, I haven't run in nine months and injury prevention is key in a good fitness program. Once you get injured, the quality of a workout decreases. I plan to increase the duration and distance of my running as I build back up. I take my fitness test in May.
As for concerns about making time, I've realized that it doesn't take much time to fit a quick workout in. A quick 20-30 minute workout is better than nothing. If you know you only have 20 minutes, increase the intensity by running a little harder than you normally would. Then, take an extra 2 minutes and knock out some pushups. Something is better than nothing! Most importantly, I've decided to make fitness a priority so I look at my schedule and find time to fit it in.
So enjoy this weather and get out there and run. And yes, I did feel it the next day but it felt great knowing I'm a little closer to getting back into shape.
No comments:
Post a Comment