This past week was NOT a good one for C25K.
A few weeks ago, someone asked me what I would do once it got dark & cold. & now I have the answer – I HAVE NO CLUE. While I can handle running in the 50′s, I’m starting to look ahead & not sure what I’ll do when it’s at freezing level by 7pm. I’m checking into some local gyms, but also talking to some more experienced runners on what I can do to combat the cold & dark. Tips?
& I think the run-in with the dog freaked me out a little more than I wanted to admit last week. So I chickened out repeatedly, night after night. I did get out this weekend, though, & Nate even joined me.
We did Week 3:
- 90 second run
- 90 second walk
- 3 minute run
- 3 minute walk
- Rinse & repeat.
Nate jogged with Tuck & I pushed Harrison in the stroller. The first run was pretty stiff, but by the end of it, I felt ready to take on the remaining 18 minutes of the program. The first three minute run was completely easy – when the dude said “Walk” over the earbuds all James Earl Jones-like, I was shocked. Already?! Okay, you’re the boss. But the last run? It hurt. I had to push myself through it & it totally helped that old school Xtina’s “Fighter” came blaring through. There’s no way you can not feel like kicking someone’s ass while listening to it. & there was NO WAY I was going to let Nate see me slow to a walk early when he was barely breaking a sweat next to me. So I kept going.
I finished it. I finished it, which is something that still shocks me because I am such a wimp when it comes to pain & persevering.
I loved having my family running with me. Thinking that this will become a regular activity on our Saturdays & Sundays!
But just an FYI – don’t try to wear 3-inch stilettos the evening after a challenging run, no matter how awesomely sassy they make you feel. Then dance for 30 minutes & realize you have to go to the bathroom & then try to squat over a child’s toilet because duh, you’re at the kids museum & HELL NO are you actually going to put your bare bum on a public seat. Because you will have to use those kegal’s & stand up twice to simply give your shaking legs a break.
I’ve been running for four weeks now (repeated Week 1, remember?) & I think my legs are starting to look pretty good.
“I think my legs are starting to look pretty good” = massive understatement. Va va voom, lady!
I don’t know how you are able to run at the end of the day—I would not be able to do it, after a day of work, feeding/playing with/bathing my son, and putting him to bed. And I don’t know when I would eat dinner!
For me, I have to do the C25K training (and weights on the “off days”) in the morning. It’s still cold and dark, but there’s nothing else that gets in my way of training (you know, the other “stuff” that can come up in the evenings like meetings or chores or whatnot). I have a running partner who I meet at 5:15 a.m. and we get it done!
Seriously nice looking legs. My legs are stumps, so even though I hiked 270 miles and my cankles looked mildly improved my legs were still chunky as ever.
I ran/walked a full 5K on the treadmill last night in 45 minutes exactly. But, I did an hour on the elliptical on Friday and went for 5.7 miles (supposedly… I have some lingering trust issues with the elliptical)
I’m tinkering with running a half marathon in April. I haven’t even run a 5k yet, but my coworker is trying to get the courage to run a full marathon and I stupidly said “I will if you will” that phrase has gotten me into trouble in life more ways than I could count.
Best of luck with week 4. Week 4 was when I felt like a runner. Do NOT look ahead to week 5. DON’T DO IT.
Your legs look fantastic! The dark/cold is why I didn’t start C25K, but I’m totally on board for this spring/summer.
http://laceyslaughablelife.wordpress.com/2010/11/15/mcfatty-week-11/
Hey, Blair! I love your blog but don’t comment often. As a runner, though, I though I would chime in about running in the cold and the dark. Some people hate to run in the cold, but I hate the treadmill more, so I deal with the bit of discomfort that comes from cold air. I find that it’s only the first few minutes of my runs that are unpleasant and after that I warm. Also, I feel pretty bad ass when it’s cold, and I’m out there battling the elements.
Layering is a really good plan, because you can always just take a layer off if you get too hot. (The Runner’s World website has a “dress the runner” function that offers advice if you’re not sure about what kind of/how many layers you’ll need: http://www.runnersworld.com/cda/whattowear/0,7152,s6-240-325-330-0-0-0-0-0,00.html) Also, I bought a skullcap from Nike a few years ago and I think it’s the best thing for keeping my ears warm without my head getting too hot. It also has a little hole in the back for my ponytail, a big plus for me. I wear that in the winter unless it’s absolutely freezing, in which case I switch to a thicker hat. I’ve never bought gloves for my hands (mine get really hot when I run), and I’ve found that a thick pair of athletic knee socks used as mittens keep my hands warm until I’m really warmed up. My husband thinks it looks pretty stupid and laughs every time I bring them out, but I’m not overly concerned with the fashion faux pas. Whatever works, right?
Lastly, about the dark…Make sure you can be seen. You can get some pretty cheap reflective bands to go around your arm or leg. There are also reflective vests and lights you can get (any good running store should have them, if not your can always try roadrunnersports.com). My dog wears a few small lights made for a bicycle around his collar, and I put one on the leash when I run with him just to make sure he can be seen. If you’re running on streets that aren’t well lit, and you have trouble seeing, you can get a little light that goes on your head and works like a headlamp. I’ve never used one myself, but it could be an option if it’s too dark.
This message is getting way too long. Just wanted to say you rock. Have fun with the running! I know it’s tough sometimes, but you may find that you love it and can’t live without it.
way to go, lady! I am a gym rat-type. I haven’t been to the gym in about a year due to my hectic schedule, but I do much better if I go there. We also have a treadmill in the basement, but I am actually better at going to the gym since my chair/glass of wine aren’t at the gym.
You are doing great. I would highly recommend a gym for the winter, as it being cold outside (at least for me) is another excuse to not go out and run.
You rock the heels too mama!
This week I need some reward assistance too…I am trying to get back on the weight loss bandwagon.
http://www.ajdplusthree.com/2010/11/mcfatty-monday-good-bad-and-ugly.html
Good for you! You look great and other than the soreness, it feels great too right? Now if only I could talk my hubby into joining me for a run.
Your legs look fantastic!
When I run outside in the cold (I live in Michigan), I wear a pair of those cheap stretchy gloves and a headband type ear band. Those, plus some pants and a long sleeve t keep me warm once I get started.
That said, most of the time now I run at the gym when it is dark. DH never cared when I ran in the dark before, but he has started a weird, “You’re a mother now; you need to be extra careful!” thing and gets all huffy about outside runs in the dark. Um, does that mean I was expendable before LOL?
We joined a super cheap gym, and it works for me, but I also like my outside runs on weekends.
Okay, I am going in a different direction. I am a runner as well but I will be honest that running in the COLD and DARK sucks. So, in the winter, I do one of two things. Sometimes I will go to the gym and get on the treadmill but that is a lot of time (driving, changing, parking etc…). The other thing I have started doing is P90X. I consider myself to be in pretty good shape, athletic and was a college athlete. It kicks my butt. I seriously sweat my rear off every single time. And it works different muscles than I am used to working. You don’t even need that much stuff.. some of which you might have. And the best part is your get to do it all from home! Email me if you want more info.
Keep it up! Don’t let a little cold and dark (and possibly rabid dogs) stop you!!
Check out Road Runner Sports for decently priced cold weather running gear. You’ll def need a pair of thermo tights and some good long sleeved tech tops, and maybe a tech jacket. (God help you if you’re running in cotton.) Gloves and a headband also help.
Ditto the suggestion about reflective gear – better to look like a crossing guard than get hit by a car.
Also, check out Road ID. I don’t like running with a lot of stuff, and that includes my drivers license. This is a great solution.
To be honest, I ran last Sunday after my 5K and I haven’t run since because of the dark issue.
I want to run around my neighborhood, but it’s way too dark. I’m not worried about being seen (or hit by a car); I’m worried about twisting my ankle in a pot hole or tripping on uneven sidewalks! And the idea of running through a dark tunnel with a lamp strapped to my forehead sounds unbelievably depressing.
I’m back on the elliptical in my basement. I like jogging outside more, but I’m resigning myself to wait until early spring. There’s always Tae-Bo…and Jillian Michaels…
YAY YOU! I’m still thinking about starting week one but with the cold (if you think it’s freezing there try a Canadian winter!) setting in by 4 p.m. I’m becoming less and less motivated as my arse looks more and more like cottage cheese.
nice stems.
I was going to comment yesterday & say that your legs looked great in the last post’s pictures. Maybe I did? I don’t remember. Either way, you look awesome & I’m pullin for you BA
I’m a total chicken when it comes to running in the dark…. the cold doesn’t bother me as much as the darkness…. Freaks me out! My hubs gives me a hard time and thinks it’s funny.
Isn’t it so much fun to run together as a family?! I love running with my man. He pushes me b/c I don’t want him to out do me…. and I will NOT walk when I’m running with him. It also pisses me off too though…. he can not run for a week or two and you’d never know! Argh!
Yes, your legs are looking amazing!!!!!!! Jealous!!!!!!!
So jealous of your legs! Keep truckin!
Way to go lady! The legs look good! And this will make me want to go run in the cold today. High of 46 at 4pm. Brrr…but I will do it.
http://plmassing.blogspot.com/
Lookin’ good Blair! My week did not go so well either. I only ran Tuesday/Saturday. Yikes. And I didn’t run yesterday at all.
I hear you on the cold & dark. Add to that the constant drizzle out here in Oregon (it started a few weeks ago). I’ve been running on the treadmill at the gym after work, which is incredibly boring. I think my brain gets tired before my muscles do. My husband & I have been running in the morning on weekends though. It’s nice to get it out of the way. (Except for yesterday, when we laid in bed and read the paper.)
This week will be better. I am running on the boring treadmill tonight after work. We can do it!
Something I learned while training for a marathon through the winter- there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing. Spend some money on good clothes. As far as a running location, is there a high school track near you? Or even a junior college? They usually have public running hours.
Yes, your legs DO look awesome, and also, great heels! I’m a firm believer that you do not need a gym to get/stay in shape. It’s so nice to get fresh air while you’re running.
I’m here: http://hairybabyklein.blogspot.com/2010/11/friday-follow-up-1112.html
No running for me, though. Just walking.
Oh Blair… My “Musts” for cold running:
Ear muff – it keeps my sinuses from hurting and it keeps me warm. I have to wear this at 55 and below, or else my face/ears hurt like hell.
Gloves – cheap. thick.
LAYERS! I usually wear a moisture wicking tank, a long sleeve shirt (I like the kind that has the little thumb holes so I can pull them over my gloves), and either a fleece vest or a full jacket.
For pants I either wear running tights or running capris with thick knee high socks.
A few of my favorites from target:
http://www.target.com/Champion-Cold-Weather-Mock-Pullover-Top/dp/B003SYSC7S/ref=br_1_9?ie=UTF8&id=Champion%20Cold-Weather%20Mock%20Pullover%20Top&node=2336088011&searchSize=90&searchView=grid5&searchPage=1&sr=1-9&qid=1289842511&rh=&searchBinNameList=style_name%2Csleeve_type%2Ccollar_style-bin%2Ctarget_com_primary_color-bin%2Clifestyle-bin%2Ctarget_com_size-bin%2Cprice%2Ctarget_com_brand-bin&searchRank=salesrank&frombrowse=1
http://www.target.com/C9-Champion-Cold-Weather-Pullover-Hoodie/dp/B003SZ49UQ/ref=br_1_27?ie=UTF8&id=C9%20Champion%20Cold-Weather%20Pullover%20Hoodie&node=2336088011&searchSize=90&searchView=grid5&searchPage=1&sr=1-27&qid=1289845864&rh=sleeve_type%3ALong%7Ccollar_style-bin%3AHooded&searchBinNameList=style_name%2Csleeve_type%2Ccollar_style-bin%2Ctarget_com_primary_color-bin%2Clifestyle-bin%2Ctarget_com_size-bin%2Cprice%2Ctarget_com_brand-bin&searchRank=salesrank&frombrowse=1
http://www.target.com/C9-Champion-Running-Knee-Tight/dp/B00285OFUG/ref=br_1_3?ie=UTF8&id=C9%20Champion%20Running%20Knee%20Tight&node=2241720011&searchSize=90&searchView=grid5&searchPage=1&sr=1-3&qid=1289845936&rh=&searchBinNameList=style_name%2Ctarget_com_primary_color-bin%2Ctarget_com_size-bin%2Cprice%2Ctarget_com_brand-bin&searchRank=salesrank&frombrowse=1
Hey! I run in the dark, dog in tow, but I use my husbands head-lamp and wear a reflector jacket. However, I run outdoors only half the time during the winter because we get lots of snow so the gym is my new home once the snow hits. Keep kickin’ butt!
I have a treadmill and I love it, but I realize the ‘mill isn’t for everyone. I like it better than the gym because it’s a lot harder to think of an excuse not to get off my butt and walk to the next room to work out. Personally, endorphins are endorphins and after a few minutes on the treadmill I’m in the groove
and it doesn’t matter that I’m staring at a wall. Plus, I can rock out to Britney without any one seeing.
Hey!
I dont know if you have them in the US but around here we have community areans with running tracks in them that you can use for free! So save your money on the membership and look for one of the free indoor tracks!
I know not everyone likes a treadmill but we got one last year when I was close to the end of my pregnancy and knew I would want to run to lose weight but wasn’t sure how it work with a baby. I am so glad we did. It wasn’t too expensive and it pretty much eliminates any excuse to not go on a run. As long as I have some good music I don’t get too bored and it is nice to not worry about the dark, burning lungs from the cold, or dying of heat exhaustion in the summer. It’s also better on your legs/knees than the sidewalk. Congrats on the running. It is THE BEST way to lose weight and get in shape and the more you do it the more awesome you feel.
I’m a little on the slow side but here’s my 1st MM post.
Also, I totally hear ya on the running outside. We have snow on the ground, it’s dark by like 4:30. It just sucks.
http://talesofanundomesticwife.blogspot.com/2010/11/dive-into-mcfatty-monday.html
Starting to look good???? omg, they’re great. You are SO lucky, lady! I think I may need to start doing what you’re doing. I wouldn’t unveil my legs for a massive amount of money right now!
Yep! It’s time to outfit yourself for the weather!!! Layers are your friend
Keep up the good work! Your legs do look amazing!!
I know I’m way behind the game here, but what is this program of which you speak? Where the man tells you when to walk?? So you don’t have to be trying to look at your watch while it jumps all over while you’re running? This program could potentially end my last remaining excuse for not starting the couch to 5K thing!
Wow, you’ve gotten lots of really awesome advice about running in the cold. I recently got some advice from a seasoned coach who has sent many runners onto great college careers:
Always get as warm as you possibly can as soon as your run is over. Even if that means changing clothes in the car. & get that heater going!
Get home & take a hot shower. It’s so important to get warmed up!!
& as far as training goes, the most important thing above all other things for success, be consistent in getting your runs in.
I know that can be hard– I do. But if you can, do it.
I’m cheering you on, B!
Your legs look great! Totally jealous right here