Couch to 5k

I'm on week two of the Couch to 5K running experience marathon fantastico.
http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml

Let this blog sequence be a lesson, a warning, or an educational experience (a teaching moment?) for those who desire to undergo a similar running schedule.

At first I was cycling to work a few times a week to get my exercise routine going. Coupled with my passable but still not-fully-committed eating habits, I've lost 18 pounds over the last 5 months. It's certainly an accomplishment but I've lacked the satisfaction I desire. So I started running. Running is much different than cycling, I realized, about 10 strides into my new routine. "I'm dramatically out of shape", I thought, as I popped, hissed, and collapsed into my apartment door after my first run. Even cycling 24 miles a day wasn't a physical challenge...apparently!

But I enjoy the running. I run around Downtown Mesa. It's very nice there. Hardly any distractions. The police station is very close and it's a beautiful area as a result.

The first week consisted of a run in the late evening as I was carefully watched by suspicious folks unloading their cars at 1 in the morning. It was tough but I made it. I have a tendency to exaggerate (understatement). It wasn't as bad as originally described. The second run was at 6 am, on schedule, and was very easily done. I was ecstatic. The third run was at 9 am, it was about 75 degrees outside, and it was not as enjoyable. Though it felt longer, I still managed.

I'm excited about the second week, starting tomorrow. I've found that I very much benefit from running in the mornings as early as I can. I also enjoy listening to music. It's obviously very fast-paced and energetic to set my tempo and mood throughout the run. And it's motivational music.

I'll keep this fairly updated. And maybe I'll actually use this blog while I'm at it.