Take baby steps if starting running program this year

Happy New Year!
My apologies for not writing sooner, however, I was on an extended rest after my busy 2008.
I have gingerbread and shortbread running through my veins. Not to mention chocolate and a lot of other bad things I tend to avoid when training.
I rang in 2009 with a glass of champagne.
I was having a good time.
I was a little sorry to see 2008 go, it was a good year in a lot of ways and especially in running and triathlon.
As I put the glass of champagne down on the table, a thought struck me. It’s here. 2009 is here and I need to get back into shape for the winter running season.
After my November race, I did what I promised to do.
Take a rest to gear up for 2009.
What I didn’t count on was that I would enjoy resting so much that I would only swim and run a handful of times in November and December.
I didn’t really have any regrets until I ran for the first time in the pouring rain a week ago.
I started running again last week and it was not as fun as I imagined it would be. It was pouring rain and a little cold but I ran and felt good after. I was a little surprised, given I’d been off for about six weeks. Sure my cardio wasn’t up to snuff, but it will be in a few weeks.
I have a brand new pair of Asics that are so white they practically glow in the dark.
For those of you contemplating starting to run in the new year, a few easy tips might help.
If you are just starting out, do so gradually. For example don’t go out and try to do 5k if you’re coming off the couch.
Start gradually even if it means running for only a couple of minutes at a time for 10 minutes. That will ensure that you don’t get dejected because it’s too hard and it will allow your body the time to adjust.
This applies to people who have taken a significant amount of time off as well.
Get into a routine.
If you can try to go out on the same days or at the same times each week, it will become a habit so that it won’t be easy to blow off when you don’t feel like it.
I used to schedule a treat for myself that could only be done if I went for a run. So I would promise myself a latte, but only if I finished my run.
As for me, I’ve signed up for races that should take me to May, so I’ll be back on track in no time. Many new stories, tips and observations to come in 2009.
Now go tie up your shoes and get out there.

Comments

[Jessica Young]

I'm so glad you are writing this blog again. I too took a break from running for a bit but now that it's the New Year I'm back at it again. I'm eagerly awaiting when the snow will melt so I can get off the hamster treadmill and out onto the road. Keep writing :)
P.S-I just got a new pair of runners and am breaking them in!