I thought I'd go ahead and do a Fitness Friday post today, in celebration of my first running milestone - as of this morning, I have run 100 miles this year! My goal is to do 500 by the end of the year, so I'm not exactly on track, considering the year is already 1/4 overwith... however, my mileage will continue to increase as time goes by, so hopefully things will average out a bit! I'm now running 3 miles or more at a time, 3-4 times a week.
I'd love to go on and on about how rewarding it is and how much I'm loving it, but I haven't felt the running love in a while. I do it because afterwards I feel good, and like I accomplished something. But I can't say I relish getting out of bed while it is still dark just to make myself pant and sweat on a treadmill! I also haven't lost any weight. None at all! However, my clothes are fitting much better and I feel alot healthier, so the numbers on the scale don't bother me so much. And my energy level has definitely improved, as well. So there are tradeoffs for my suffering! If you've ever suffered from a lack of motivation in running, you might find this post as funny as I did (although, I caution that the author is not a Christian and there are some themes mentioned that might be offensive to some).
I've also added in the 30-Day Shred, which is going well. I'm on Level 2, now, and I'm definitely feeling stronger and seeing more definition, especially in my upper body. Unfortunately, its my lower body and abs where I really need the definition ;-) But not having flabby arms is nice, too!
If anyone who reads my blog and might have some opinions wouldn't mind chiming in - I have a question regarding exercising during the hot summer months and modesty. How does one keep comfortable and cool while also maintaining a sense of decency? Running shorts are... well, short. I put some on the other day and Joel said "Mama, it looks like you're just wearing underwear!" The perspective of a child can certainly change ones' mind about what's modest and what's not! Running skirts are cute, but almost more suggestive because of the way the flip around - even though there are shorts underneath, I've heard from sources that it still can attract the wrong kind of attention. Basketball-type shorts are baggy (uncomfortable) and can ride up (even more uncomfortable), and capris and exercise pants are hot! What's a modest girl to do? Any suggestions?
I hope anyone else who is trying to meet some fitness goals is also having success!
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5 comments:
Just found you! I just got done posting my baby bump and was talking about how I look forward to doing a half marathon in January. I am an on again of again runner. I never was a sweater in my youth and did not take up running until I was loosing weight for my wedding. I loved the sense of accomplishment and achievement by doing something that takes everybit of will you have to go forward. UNTIL< you get to that level that it is nothing more than joy and it is everything you can do, not to run everywhere. Have hope, you will get there.
My best advice is walking is good too. And you might get better running strength by doing a minute of hard running and then 2 minutes of a relaxed run. This will build your stamina. Change your runs up, through a quick (fast as you can) 1 mile run for the day and let that be it.
Clothes! Ahh clothes are hard. I love to run in long sleeves and pants, but as I am going to start in the heat, I doubt that will be pleasant. At Target, I have found capri, breatheable pants that are not spandex. It hangs off at your hips and it allows air to flow around your legs.
Good luck!
Hey Erin, you're doing great! Keep it up and you could very well meet your 500 mile goal by the end of this year! Even though the number on the scale is the same, you can tell by the way your clothes are fitting better that you've lost fat and gained muscle. Keep it up! Stay disciplined in your eating habits and the weight will eventually come off. Don't give up.
I totally agree with the modesty in exercise during the summer months! Since you're inside while you do it (i.e. regulated temperature) it makes it a little easier to dress. I bought two pair of black moisture wicking shorts that go to the knee at Ross for less than $15/$20 each (Everlast & Adidas). They're longer, sliming and since they do cover, they also wick away the extra sweat from wearing them, making them feel quite cool. For tops, I wear a wide strapped tank. Some sports bras cover quite a bit of the upper chest region even though they're form fitting, they cover the skin. I figure if I sweat enough, then any attention I get will be quickly diverted. :-) Plus, even if we wear a kimono there will still be perverted men out there who's thoughts we can't control.
Keep it up, Erin!
I know it's kinda 80's (but the 80's are coming back, baby!) but I've worn spandex shorts that come down to just-above-the-knee with another pair over them. You can't do with every pair of shorts, you gotta find the right match. It's comfy, too because sometimes shorts ride up due to friction (if you know what I mean).
I like really thin t-shirts or wide tanks to stay cool.
You could always go extreme and wear those trash bag outfits to sweat more- those are modest! :)
Good job on sticking with your fitness routine! As far as clothing, this is one of the reasons (though certainly not the only) that I do my working out indoors, at home. I usually start in a tee or tank top with a sports bra under, and gym pants (shorts in the summer). When I get hot, I take the outer shirt off...it's just my husband and children around, so it doesn't matter if my clothes look like underwear!
If I really wanted to run outside where people would be driving by etc., I'd try to go early in the morning or late when it's cooler, so I could wear pants...JMO. :)
Wow. 100 miles just sounds so impressive!
And I'm glad you're really feeling the benefits even though it's a challenge. Good for you!
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