Taking the plunge...

[LewWagner]

Well, since Oct 2013, I've walked mostly and achieved my weight loss goals.  But, I still stayed away from continuous jogging/running vs. a mix of walking and jogging/running.  Over the past couple of weeks, I decided enough procrastination.  So, I started just running/jogging over half the time.  Yesterday, I was able to do about 1.5 miles without walking and this morning was able to jog 95% of the time.  That includes uphill and downhill and sloped roads and trails.

Even though I'm 59, I find that focusing on just throwing out one foot and then the other, keeps me going.  My heart rate spikes up but then settles back down.  I do find that stretching out just before keeps my calf muscles from cramping up.

Back in the Air Force and in my 20's and 30's, the minimum standard was 1.5 miles in 12 minutes.  That's 7.5 MPH and 8 minutes/mile.  I've a ways to go before I can get back to that (if ever), but that'll be my goal for now.  I used to love running and would like to rediscover the way my body feels and hums when I'm running.  This morning, my average minutes per mile was 14.78 and my speed was 4.06 MPH.  So, I'll slowly start going faster until I can do my average of 2.08 miles per run at least under 12 minutes/mile.  Then 10, then 9, then God willin' and the creek don't rise, 8 minutes per mile.

It's nice having my Fitbit Zip and my TomTom GPS sportswatch because I can see how I'm doing each time and over a trend time span.

I am shooting for running/jogging at least three times a day.  After breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Don't know if there's anyone on this forum who is going through the same struggle but if you have any mental tricks to keep going or things you do during a run - feel free to share.  I've pretty much obtained the best running shoes (Saucony Hurricanes), light wicking socks, loose T-shirt and light shorts and head sweatband.  Also found a good rythm as I run/jog but haven't yet achieved what I call "being in the zone."  My body is waking up during the run, however and is pleasantly suprising me by doing more.

[WendyB]

Sounds like you are doing good!

[SunsetRunner]

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@WendyB wrote:

Sounds like you are doing good!

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Yes, it certainly is ...

[vsch]

Good morning, Lew.

I am also making the transition to running/jogging.  I used to be solely a runner, but now I am an avid walker.  My family has signed me up for a few races where I will need to walk/jog my way to the finish line.

At 56, I know I am able to do it, I just have to do it.

Best of luck to you as you increase your milage.

[dancefoxtrot · Accepted solution]

Hi Lew,

Impressive progress. In terms of things to do. Be mindful of where your mind goes as you run and bring it back to seeing the beauty around you or your breathing. Each time it wanders away notice are you planning, day dreaming, remembering and gentle bring you back to the present moment. Very centering.

Sounds like you are making great progress. Let your heart and lungs get into condition slowly as you push for speed. Don't know until you get there if you can reach on 8 minute mile of a 20 yrs old but even 10 mins is wonderful in your later 50's. Somehow I see you improving each week.

Barbara G

[BurdsNest · Accepted solution]

First of all, you're doing great!  I incorporated running (but on a treadmill) about 6 weeks ago and I'm clearly not a runner.  I mostly enjoy aerobic classes, dancing my ass off to a beat. Running isn't easy......I also was looking for all kinds of tricks to keep me going and to get into a zone. Competing with someone running next to or across from me helps, or just staring at the back of the person in front of me.  Once I'm in a zone.....I'm good!    I started slow....half a mile, three quarters, a mile, and now I can run over two miles.  I started off walking, quarter of a mile, than slowly decreased it till I was running most of the time.  I'm trying to fit this all in before a scheduled class, and depending on what time I get to the gym, is whether or not I'm running or walking most of the time.

I found that walking first, then going into a jog @ 5.7 miles  helps.  I run a mile then, I walk a bit, pick it up to a jog again, and it clearly is much easier.  When I'm walking I'm walking on an incline of about 4.  

I run about a mile 4 days a week and then jump on the machine for toning (if time permits).  Keep up the good work.  Oh.....by the way.....I'm 56 years young!

[LewWagner · Accepted solution]

Thanks for all the great replies and info!  Nice to know there are others out there facing the same situtation I am.