A few months ago, I got a crazy idea that I'd like to start running. I have been walking for the past 20 years and decided I needed a new challenge. My thought was, how much harder can it be to kick it up a notch? For two months, I imagined myself as a runner.
Unfortunately, I think I look more like the image below when I run...notice the grimace on her face...
Finally decided that if I'm going to do it, I need to start running and stop thinking about it. Actually, I found out it was a lot harder than I was expecting. My first run consisted of running 3 houses down my street and before I was unable to breathe. My the end of the week, I ran a half mile but my knees were KILLING me. This was puzzling because I've never had knee trouble and I really didn't want to do any permanent damage to my knees. I rested for a few days and tried again. My lungs were getting stronger but my knees were still hurting. Someone told me to go to a sports store and get my feet evaluated and buy some good running shoes that were specific for my style of running and the shape of my feet.
Saturday afternoon, I spent an hour at Roadrunner Sport and had my feet evaluated. I found that I had a nigh arch and that I ran on the inside of my feet (hence the sore knees). When I got the right shoes on, I could immediately tell the difference. That night I went on my first run with the right shoes and I had more energy than I have had all month long. My legs are still weak but I think as I build up some stamina, I will be able to overcome that.
In order to make this official, I have decided to run a 5K in July in Utah. Now that I've told all of you about it, I guess I have to keep training and make it happen. Now for those of you who are real runners, I am well aware that a 5K race is very short but it is my goal. And for those who keep telling me that I will love it and I will not want to stop, I don't believe you. I don't see myself running past July 7.
Snow Sculptures
2 months ago


7 comments:
Just when I think you can't get any cooler, you go and start running too. Seriously, you are my hero.
You are awesome!! I am like you- I don't love running, but find it so worthwhile exercise. I am happy you are running a 5K!! That is all I will ever run- no marathons for me- EVER!!
That is fantastic!! I am so envious. I loved running. And I have not done it for about 3 years. I have also gained a substantial amount of weight because of it. Running is hard on the knees. I have torn both of my knees, and can only run/walk with braces worn now. I believe in you! Good luck!!!!
You are such an inspiration! I would also love to start running, but worry about my old arthritic knees. Maybe some super-cool running shoes would help. Good luck in the 5K.
Hi Lauri! I am so glad I got back on the blogosphere (I have been on hiatus) I was just talking to a friend about running and how it is such a big thing. A few months back I played two full court basketball games back to back without subs and was fine during the games but just about died that night. But when I run around the block I am winded and feel totally out out of breath. I am anxious to see how it goes with you. Every runner tells me it gets easier and you end up loving it. Not sure I am ready to commit to a 5K like you but I think I am going to try and stick with it for longer than a day. Good luck!!! You can do it!
That is so great Lauri! Good luck in your race!
I had insoles made at road runner for my shin splints and the right shoes really do help. however i still get shin splints and therefore do not run very far.
good for you for sticking with it and giving it a real try!
I'm impressed with your new goal. I ran from one lightpost to the other on our residential street the other morning and I was exhilarated. That was IT for me! Our daughter, Kori, is running in the Ogden Marathon in 10 days and Kami just returned from the Big Sur Marathon where she ran in a shorter race...I don't know where THAT gene came from...obviously not from me.
Well good luck to you. We have a great marathon here in St. George held on the first Saturday in October and then, of course, we have the Ironman (held just last Saturday). Starting next year the Ironman will be reduced to a 1/2 Ironman which seems much more attainable (HA!) You're welcome to stay with us if you decide to compete in either race. Keep up the good work!
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