Still Running

I've continued with the Couch to 5K program. It's been two weeks now! Honestly, I'm pleasantly surprised that I've stuck with it. I'm gaining confidence that I really can do this. I came to a realization on my last run. I have this preconceived notion that I'm not a runner; it's not something I can do. But, when people see me at the park, I look like a runner (just not a very fast one) and it struck me that they would not see the barriers I have in my own mind. Shift my perspective, and I am a runner. It's just a matter of putting it into practice, like untapped talent. :)

"Change the way you look at things and the things you look at change." - Wayne Dyer


Here's a recap of my last two runs:

Day 4: Wednesday 4/8/09
Weather: High 40's - low 50's and sprinkling
I noticed that my recovery times are getting better. (run 60 sec, then walk 90 sec) It doesn't take me the full 90 secs to feel like I'm ready to run again. Progress!

Day 5: Friday 4/10/09
Weather: Low 50's and threatening to rain (managed to stay mostly dry, though!)
Still seeing increased recovery time AND improvement with speed.
The big accomplishment today: I ran UP STAIRS!! Now, I know that may not sound like much, but I didn't know I could do that. I was running along the circular path at the park... and my running stints are always at different places, depending on how the timing works out. So, I was approaching the steps and I knew I was going to have to run it, and I wasn't sure if I could. But, to my own amazement, I bounded up and over those stairs, two at a time, like there was nothing to it. I continued my run with a big rediculous grin of accomplishment, and passed a couple people who clearly were wondering what in the heck I was so happy about. LOL...

The more I do this, the easier it will get, right? My next run is tonight, after work. I have my running clothes here to prove it. I'm moving on to the 'week 2' program, with 90 second jogging and 2 minute walking segments. Think my new Asics running shoes will put the bounce in my step to get me through it? I think so. These babies are awesome.
lol