Janathon 2.01 & The DietBet

Happy 2015!!!

Happy Birthday to Janathon who’s turning 5 this year!!! This is Janathon 2.0 for me! I’m excited to partake in the Annual Festival of Activities & Excuses for my second year. If you’re new to my blog, the point is to Jog, Log and Blog every day for the month of January. Or do any form of exercise or physical activity that will get you in a healthier state. It’s free and it’s fun! No prizes for me since I’m in Canada but for most participants who are in the UK – there’s a lunch, weekly group runs, prizes, etc. Although I’m so far away, I love being part of this in the virtual world. I love following other bloggers, getting inspired, and sharing my success….or excuses…. Let the games begin!

I have to say, I’m pretty proud of myself for this success today. Runrchatts helped me run outside and although it wasn’t too cold -5°C feels like -13°C, the wind was at 35km/h with gusts going up to 56 km/h were pretty scary. I’m certain the wind may have been worse, especially having to run into it a couple of times! My goal for this Janathon is to run at least 2 kms a day for round 2 (in 2014 I aimed to run at least 1 km a day even when I was sick!). My next level goal is to run a total of 102 kms in January to surpass last January’s 101 total. So, if you do the math, I actually should be running 3.3 kms daily. This means I’ll just have to have some big runs to average out those smaller 2 km days when I just can’t muster up the willpower to run more. I’ll be adding in some other exercises throughout the day to complete as well and list them here.

January 1, 2015: 6.02 km run, 1 km cool down walk, squats, crunches, push ups, and forward lunges (left and right)

I don’t know if you even notice 2014 go by! It’s been a blimey great year despite all of the sad in the world. I can blog about my successes and failures in 2014 or my big plans for 2015, but instead I’d like to introduce you to the DietBet challenge. Join today! I discovered the DietBet after reading a fellow blogger’s post (sorry, I don’t remember who’s it was???). Any who, the DietBet is a challenge where you bet on yourself, literally. I have put in $35 (USD) for a January 5 to February 1 challenge to lose 4% of my body weight in 4 weeks. There’s a bunch of other rules that make sure there’s no cheating (don’t worry, your pictures are private and safe between you and the auditors). This is my first DietBet and I’m excited to put my money where my mouth is at! If I succeed I will get a portion of the pot (split amongst all winners). I’m pretty certain if I changed my poor eating habits, that 4% will be shed pretty quickly! I just love to eat toooooo much and I love to eat EVERYTHING! Fruit, Chips, Candy, Bread, Cheese, Potatoes, you name it, I like to eat and it’s a problem. So, here’s to a new year, new Janathon, and a new challenge with the DietBet.

Source: The Oatmeal 

Hope your first day of the year was as successful as mine!

Happy Running

rundmach

The Return for Janathon

Happy whatever it is you celebrate! In the busy lives we live, it’s definitely a good reminder to take some time to show the people you love how much they mean to you. For me this is Christmas. Merry Christmas to all the fellow bloggers and runners across the world. I hope Santa was good to you and you are feeling loved.

It’s been a very crazy 6 months since I’ve last posted and I am now making sure that I am coming back for Janathon 2015. I have officially signed up so you can find me here starting January 1, 2015 logging all my daily activities (which will mostly incorporate running, strength training, cycling, and various types of exercises that I don’t normally partake in). I am very excited for this year’s Janathon as it will help get me off the right start as it did this last year. This will be my second Janathon and I hope to win smugness and immense self-satisfaction.

It’s not that I haven’t wanted to blog but in the last 6 months a few other things have been taking priority. I broke up with the one thing that’s been in my life longer than anything else, I quit my job where I worked for over 10 years. It’s not really work when you love the industry, people, place, and have the passion for what you do. My love did not change for what I do but the environment changed, it became a very emotionally stressful company to work for over quite a few months after a take over and it was time to leave and make sure my life was filled with positivity. Work-Life Balance is so important and if you can’t step away from your work when you leave the workplace, you better love what you do. I am one of those individuals who believe the things you do define you and I started doing things that I would never be proud to say I was part of. In this last little while, I discovered a new job and it’s still fairly new so I’m getting my feet wet and seeing what will come next. The greatest things are the people here. It is not necessarily an industry I would have chosen or even imagined I’d be in but the people are so welcoming and friendly, it has made the transition a little easier. The only negative so far, I do much much much less moving and spend almost a full 8 hours sitting. The last 6 months did include a two little vacations that reminded me what life is really about, spending time with the ones you love and enjoying every moment. Of course I can go on and on about what a blast I’ve had on vacation or what a miserable time I had making the decision to leave what has been such a huge part of me, but I’ll get into the running!

I did not succeed in all of my goals for 2014 but I am not disappointed. I ran alone, with friends, with the love of my life, and in a couple of races. I raised some money, maybe not enough as I had hoped and did not make time to volunteer but I will try harder this new year. I did do strength training and understood more of my abilities. I did not lose any weight at all but I have always known, that I run so I can eat whatever I want but also because running is the most free I have ever felt. I have learned and am accepting that running may not be the factor to losing weight (diet smiet)…. Running is me time and it is my happiness. It may sound corny to some people but I think all runners can attest that Running is the ultimate nirvana.

Recently, I ran with runrchatts without music! I went bare, no headphones, no phone with me, just the company of someone I enjoy running with and we chatted and ran and I had a blast! I’m sure I’ll still need the music for longer runs but this 5k we completed with each other was phenomenal. I listened to everything around me and soaked it all in. This is an accomplishment to me because it was a chance for me to enjoy the company of another runner and embrace the beauty of the world around.

In these last 6 months, I’ve also felt pretty accomplished as I feel like I have been officially inaugurated into the running world. I have been running for quite some time now but the whole idea of black toes and losing toenails made absolutely no sense to me. My toes had always been your average toes until recently…. I received 1 super black toe and 2 other smaller toes said goodbye to their protective upper casing. This seems very weird, but I’ve never been more proud to lose toe nails.

I think to catch you up on the last 6 months would just be ridiculous to do in one blog post as this is already getting lengthy so I’ve tried to capture some of the highlights the best I can…except for one…….

This Christmas, I signed myself up for a half marathon! On Sunday, May 3, 2015 I will be running the Mississauga Half Marathon. Merry Christmas to me!!! I’ve been toying with the idea and have blogged about it before. It’s time to hold myself accountable and put my feet where my words are. My goal is to just finish. I’m not sure if I’ll ever do another half at this point but it’s definitely a bucket list item! Funny enough, when I started blogging, my biggest goal was 10k and wasn’t even sure if I’d enjoy the 10k. It seems that I am growing and the 10k may not be enough. A Half seems almost too much but I am nervously excited!! I’ve signed up, paid, and can’t turn back now!

I know I don’t have to keep preaching on here as to why running is so great. I might just be doing this because I still need motivation to get me off my butt. It seems in my head I know how good running is for me and in my heart how much I love to run, but there’s this thing (maybe it’s the Blerch) that just makes me succumb to laziness.  So, here I am, signing up for Janathon to kick off the new year like many others promising to stay on track. Regardless of how busy life is going to get, for 31 days, I will be active and will blog daily.

Over the course of Janathon I will be sharing some fun comings from The Oatmeal. I hope he doesn’t mind but I’m in love with the comics as I just got the book, The Terrible and Wonderful Reasons Why I Run Long Distance. 

I hope that you have been doing well as I have not had the time to stay up to date on blogs or anything online…. I am wishing you a successful New Year and hope that you’ll join in on these 31 days of discovery and growth.

So for whatever reason you may be running for, I hope you continue to run and enjoy it!

Happy Running.

rundmach

Janathon Day 31 Run #2

I do not want to live in regret! 

January 31 Run #2: 17:00 (mm:ss), 2.12 km, 8’04″/km (iPod)

Despite how exhausted I am from this morning’s 11.8 km run, my longest yet, I got back on the treadmill late tonight to run 2 kms. You may think I’m crazy since I got my  Janathon  Day 31 run in already and set some new records but really, I had one more record to set and I do not want to live in regret. I was 900 metres away from 100 kms. I have officially covered 101 kms for the month of January!!! Not much else to blog about other than my body is tired, treating myself to chicken wings and fries for dinner is not a good idea when you plan on running again in the evening, and I think I finally understand runner’s toenails? I’ve never understood how you would get purple toes and such (I had that a lot from soccer due to the impact). Tonight, while running, all I could feel were both my big toes hurting but only where the toenail is… are they going to go purple??? My toenails aren’t even long. They’re pretty short… It must have been the 1.5 hour run from this morning!… Oh well. Hopefully this is the last you hear of my feet!

I wish I could carry tonight’s run into tomorrow as part of my run streak but I guess that isn’t how it works is it? I have a feeling I’ll be pretty beat up tomorrow and won’t do much other than rest. Any-who, I am super happy I have broken a couple PRs today (nothing in speed, but that shall come soon!).

Here’s a recap of my first 2014 Janathon:

• Run – 32 times – 101.2 km – 12.4 hours
• Bike – 3 times – 32.7 km – 1.3 hours
• Daily sit ups/crunches, Russian Twists/Bicycle crunches (one or the other), bench presses, rows, bicep curls, planks/squats (one or the other), shoulder abductions, and occasionally some supermans (back extensions)

My strength training exercises weren’t set in stone and I did them after every run. I did not log those in as cross/strength training hours. I need to be doing all of those exercises on a daily basis to get my body moving. I need to incorporate more reps and more variety to tone and strengthen my body. Yay, new plans for February!

I’d like to Congratulate everyone for their hard efforts this month and success! We’re only in January and we’ve started the year so strong. Only 11 more months to keep up the amazing lifestyle we have built. Thanks again for being so wonderful, supportive, and a great human being.

Happy Running!

rundmach

Janathon Day 31

Always do your best. What you plant now, you will harvest later. – Og Mandino

January 31 Run: 1:30:00 (hh:mm:ss), 11.80 km, 7’39″/km (iPod)

Today was my longest run to date in both distance and duration. I was only 200 metres away from 12 km!! I did this all on the treadmill and had I known I was that far off I would have done the extra 200, I had it in me!! Actually, I was aiming for 11 km because my Running Free was telling me I was 10.9 kms away from hitting 100 kms this month! I joked yesterday and earlier today that I should do 11 kms just so I could hit 100 for the month. I didn’t want to wait until next Janathon or do it next month when it’s 3 days less! I got down to my treadmill and set it to 90 minutes, that should give me plenty of time to complete 11 k and if my body couldn’t that’s okay too. I also set it to 90 minutes so I would beat my longest run time on my Nike+ from last year (1 hours 26 minutes and I think it was 10.6 km). It was time to set a new record for the new year! Well I was in quite some excitement even knowing I only missed 200 metres from 12 k… I plugged my gadgets into the computer and uploaded… Oh no, Nike+ says I’m 900 m away from 100 km for the month, what the frig?! Ok ok.. calm down, Nike+ doesn’t always seem to add up well… Where’s my notebook, let me manually add these up… Oh no, I’m still short!… Okay, let me type this up on a calculator and add it up… Oh no, now I’m short 1.2 kms… What’s going on?! Back to the Running Free site to review the analysis…. My Wednesday January 29th run, was submitted twice!!! How could I?!?!?! 2.76 kms extra added in that were not earned… It is still early in the day and if I’m not fully broken, I will get on the treadmill again to do 2 kms so I can claim my 100 km month!!!

Janathon  Day 31 has been completed (even if I’m not fully done). I got in my planks (check out Janathon PJ Off-Side-Plank here!) plus my regular mini strength work outs along with a long run. The run was 9 minutes on (5 mph) and 1 minute off (4 mph) for 90 minutes. Could it really be over already? This community has been so touching, inspirational, and supportive, I don’t want it to ever end! I even signed up for twitter (@rundmach) just for Janathon and I’m not even sure if I’m using it right! I don’t want this to stop so I’m just going to keep working out every day and keep blogging as much as I can. I don’t know if I will commit to blogging every day but I will commit to being active. Besides, I’m at 32 days of running now, let’s see how far I can go!

This month has taught me so much. I have followed the lives of so many alike and so many I adore. I have gone from strength to strength. I have thought about fellow Janathoners in my regular day and wishing them well. I am extremely thankful for each and every one of you who follow my blog, who has been active, who inspire me, who like my posts, and who is there for me. I am touched and sad this is over. I am no longer just an I. We have been through so much this month and I couldn’t be happier to have been part of this journey. We have put in all of our time to complete all 31 days and as the site says, we are all winners, and we should all be proud:

What do I win?
You win smugness and immense self-satisfaction.

We have succeeded!! Ran every day this month and was active! So, this is not the end. This is really just the beginning and I’m sure many other blogs I read today will be of the same esteem. We are all superstars!!  I can go on about how grateful I am for this month and how YOU have helped me get to where I am today. I won’t ramble on but know that each of you mean sometime special to me and I’m very happy that I get to share my life with you. I’d also like to send me gratitude and Thank you’s out to Cathy @ JogBlog and everyone else who is involved with organizing and keeping this alive!!!

For now, I need to go shower and get on with my day. Don’t be surprised if you see another blog today covering another km that I need so I can hit 100 km for the month.

Sincerely,

rundmach

Janathon Day 30

No matter how good or bad you think life is, wake up each day and be thankful for life. Someone somewhere else is fighting to survive. – Unknown

January 30 Spin: 58:30 (mm:ss), 23.8 km
January 30 Run: 16:00 (mm:ss), 2.12 km, 7’37″/km (iPod)

I survived my first spin class today!! Janathon  Day 30 has been completed with a double work out. A 9 am spin class and a short 9 pm running session (plus the regular strength exercises after the run). My bottom hurts a lot, particularly what I’m told are the sit bones that hurt a ridiculous amount already! The spin class was pretty awesome. I was told it was no beginner class and would be challenging but I could go at my own pace and rest when I needed. I followed the regular “rest” period as everyone else for the 45 minute duration of the class. I ended up being on the bike for almost an hour – showing up early and starting to spin away to get warmed up. My bum hurt before the class even started! I also had cycling shorts on with the padding. I’m a little shocked a lot of ladies in the class (and guys – but they can hide it better under shorts), didn’t have padded pants or shorts on??? How do they survive? My friend who came with me to spin class (he’s done it before), is planning on going back tomorrow morning! Do I dare join him?? I said I am interested and in, but we’ll see how I feel in the morning. My legs felt a little off after getting off the bike but I’m okay now. Hopefully, these classes pay off and I see my body shed a few of those stubborn pounds that don’t want to come off.

The YMCA offers a lot of classes with membership or drop in rates. The spin class was very well taught and I think the instructor was awesome. She was very nice, not intimidating at all, taught me how to set up my bike (and move it – yes, I was the awkward person trying to roll my bike over from the back of the trainer), and she kept everyone motivated. I like her, too bad she only teaches day classes – I’ll be going to evening ones after work.

The class really helped me out to start off the day today. I wasn’t able to think at all, only listen to what the instructor said and force my legs to keep motoring on through all those hills and fast speed intervals. It took a very long time to get to bed and having to wake up early, I didn’t sleep all that much last night. I was finally able to let my mind go into no where land thanks to the spin class.

This image basically sums up how I got through the class. Just keep going – persevere! Although I may not have been going nearly as fast as any of the other spinners (cyclists? What’s the correct term here??), I was giving it my all. I had set the tension to what were tough for me and when I thought I could handle more, I’d turn it up a notch (but really, I couldn’t handle that notch very long).

I am sad and it’s hard to ignore sad thoughts but overtime it will fade… I not sure how long I will be in morning. I’ve just been a bit quieter in thoughts and sitting at home, cleaning, resting, just being. I eventually got up to continue my run streak – Day 31 now completed with a steady 5 mph run for 16 minutes.

Here’s to staying strong and trying new things.

Love,

Diana Mach

Janathon Day 29

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal. – Unknown, From an Irish headstone

January 29 Run: 20:00 (mm:ss), 2.75 km, 7’19″/km (iPod)

Janathon  Day 29 has been completed with a 20 minute run. I warn you today’s post is going to be a little depressing and scattered. I can’t really keep my thoughts together as my initial thought was to run for 60 minutes or really as long as I possibly could… I will try to lay out the events of my day that lead me to thinking all the running in the world will make me feel better… I don’t expect you to read all of this, I just need an outlet right now and this is all I have.

Today, I stayed home. Taking a mini stay-cataion today to Friday and Friday is the Chinese New Year where I was planning to go home and celebrate with my Mom and go visit my Uncle to have some celebrations, laughed, and food. Early in the morning, I headed over with a friend to the YMCA here to take a tour of the facilities. Yes, I have a treadmill but I’ve been thinking about trying out a spin class and maybe start swimming. Woah, those are all the triathlete  sports! I’m not sure if that’s where I’m heading since I dread road bikes but I have heard so much great things about spin classes and losing weight. I didn’t sign up for a membership yet since this facility offers a 7 day free trial. I signed up and tomorrow morning at 9 am I will be doing my first spin class (Cyclefit as they call it). Scared and anxious, I hope it turns out well because I’d like to drop a few pounds!! Plus, if I do sign up for the  facilities, I can try a run on the treadmill there and compare it to the treadmill I own (for a comparison of the distance and pace). After registering for a free week starting tomorrow, we stopped a local bike shop for him to check out some road bikes. It was 1:10 pm when I noticed at 1:08 pm I missed two calls from my mom. I immediately  called her back (my mom doesn’t call me during the day unless it’s an emergency)… It was… I don’t want to get into major details but my mom’s brother, my uncle, passed away at noon today. He had cancer. He outlived cancer for longer than he should have. I just saw him Saturday at our family dinner at his house! I was planning to visit him this Friday to wish him a Happy New Year!…. I headed home straight away… called my brothers… Curled up in bed and cried… and cried… and continued to be sad. I ordered bad food…. I curled up on the couch… I moped around… I kept thinking, the best thing I can do is just get on the treadmill and run as much as I can so I can get lost in the run. Really?! That does NOT work. You cannot run from your problems and no matter how many miles you put in, you cannot bring someone back. My thoughts keep going back to my aunt, my wonderful aunt… my cousins… my mom…. I pushed my speeds up to even 6 mph for the last 2 or 3 minutes until I just stopped because all I wanted to do was drop and curl up. I need to mourn before I can force myself to move on but all I want to do is force myself to move on. If I continued to run, I’m sure I would have fallen flat on my face. I kept thinking about my uncle and thoughts of him. Thoughts of how he was the one person of all my aunts and uncles to connect with me in any way. We’ve even chatted over running when I told him I had started running, he told me how he would go for runs before he got sick… I pushed on and kept pushing the pace higher and higher. I know that he loved me. I thought about my sweet aunt who loved my uncle more than anything. My aunt who showed her unconditional love for him and cherished him. My family may not be the closest family but this is the family I have and I don’t want to lose anyone in it. I love them all even if we only see each other once a year or only chat online every now and then. I thought about how much I wished running could take away the sadness and make everything better. How badly I wanted to shut my brain off and just run.  I should be happy that my overall run averaged a pace of 7’14″/km which is pretty darn fast for me right now. I’d ideally like to be running a 7 minute kilometre but really, I’d just like my uncle back. That was my day. I am still going to go to the spin class tomorrow and hope for the best. Sorry for babbling on…

I am just sad and no run can fix that today.

Sincerely,

Diana Mach

Janathon Day 28

The best way to predict the future is to invent it. – Alan Kay

January 28 Run: 25:00 (mm:ss), 3.40 km, 7’23″/km (iPod)

Burrrrrr! It is cold outside! It’s not quite the temperature that’s cold, it’s the wind! It’s still going up to gusts of 50-54 kms! Thank goodness I have my treadmill! Yup, I’m saying it again, I like my treadmill. Today’s run was pretty great! I did what I’ll call an interval run, 1 minute on and 1 minute off. 5.3 mph on and 5.0 mph off. That’s a 7’02″/km on pace and a 7’27″/km off pace each minute. I did pretty awesome!! It was getting annoying having to click up up up, down down down every 60 seconds BUT it was so worth it because I just felt so strong being able to run 5.3 mph and having 5 mph seem “slow”. This run was still challenging but it was amazing!

Here we are with Day 28 completed for Janathon  with a 2.11 mile run and some strength training exercises. To continue on with my 29 day running streak, I have registered for 2 additional runs for this year. My running journey continues with a Valentine’s 5k on February 9 and a 10k in the Toronto Yonge Street 10k run on April 13. I am now up to 4 races registered for this year. Ideally, I’d like to be doing 1 a month but there are none in January so I’ll count my December 31st Resolution run as my January run. Besides, Running every day for Janathon is a big race on its own!

After signing up and looking at all these races, I would really like to be doing some charity work but I just don’t know how? I’ve exhausted my friends and co-workers over the last year. How do I go about asking for more donations? I know I can volunteer my time but I don’t feel like it’s as valuable as what the money can do for finding a cure, providing medical support, spreading awareness, and supporting those who really need it. If you are fundraising, please let me know, I’m not very well off but I would love to support a  good cause.

I’m still looking for motivation to run harder and stronger. Here’s the speech I listened to today and found the video online:

Happy Running!

rundmach

Janathon Day 27

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart. – Helen Keller

January 27 Run: 25:00 (mm:ss), 3.12 km, 8’01″/km (iPod)

It’s time to take it back a notch today and do an “easy” run. Almost everything I’ve read recommends shifting between easy, tempo, speed, and long slow distance (LSD) runs as well as adding intervals and fartleks into these runs. Having a variety of runs is supposedly the best way to lose weight while running but also increase your strength in running. When I was doing the running for weight loss program for a couple of weeks, it definitely worked for keeping weight off. Plus, with the major distances I did for myself over the weekend, I needed a shorter run tonight. My legs are a little tight. Although I did not do a walk run interval today, I kept a steady, “easy”, 4.7 mph for the entire duration of the run. Why do I keep putting easy in quotations? Because it’s still not easy! Running at  4.7 mph or 5 mph, it seems about the same challenge in terms of effort exerted. No biggie though, I completed 25 minutes of steady running for Janathon  Day 27!

Booyah! 28 day run streak so far! Only 4 more work outs before Janathon is over. Can we do a Febuthon? Is that a thing?

That’s how I feel! Excited after running and happy to be alive, happy that I have a wonderful life, and happy I run. All of this after a puzzling Monday… I didn’t enjoy my Monday too much at work – too much stuff going on (nothing out of the ordinary) but I guess I just wasn’t ready for it. Mondays are extremely mentally exhausting sometimes, a big go go go and I don’t think I had my head in the game. Now, it doesn’t matter, I ran, it’s okay! 😀

Here’s something to hopefully make you smile:

Happy Running!

rundmach

Janathon Day 26

The struggle you’re in today is developing the strength you need for tomorrow. Don’t give up! – Robert Tew

January 26 Run: 50:00 (mm:ss), 6.52 km, 7’41″/km (iPod)

Well hello Sunday Runday & Readers! Yesterday, I was super stoked to have finished 5 k and said I wasn’t hurt by not hitting 6 k because the time ran out. Honestly, I wasn’t, but because I knew I still had it in me, I’ve been thinking I want to do 6 k next. For  Janathon  Day 26, running streak day 27, I completed a 6.5 k run (4 miles)! I went for a 1.5 km walk before this outside just to get some fresh air, plus it’s snowing and not ridiculously cold out today but the wind still hurt. I had a mini foam rolling session this morning to stretch out my tight calves/quads from yesterday. After the run I completed my regular  strength exercises.

I found that the run went by pretty quickly today after I got over the fact that I hung up a motivational poster in front of the treadmill crooked… I have some OCD with certain things and seriously I couldn’t look at it any more. I changed my iPod from music to motivational speeches again and listened to the one I posted yesterday twice during today’s run. If anyone knows where I can find this  BEST Workout Motivation in just audio to download, that would be fantastic! I even put on the video today and that really got me pumped! I’ve tried listening to podcasts, watching tv shows / documentaries, and regular music but nothing has worked like this video compilation.  My last session (a 5 minute run after intervals of 8:1), I increased speeds from 5.2 up to 5.7 mph! I’m actually starting to like my dreaded treadmill again!!! It’s telling me I’m running at paces I find amazing for me and helping me push myself to run long and further than I would outside. This must have been how I felt last winter when I built up to running 10k’s on the treadmill! Any ways, it does get a little boring on the treadmill but today I really found listening to different motivational speeches really got me through the run quicker than when I was switching to songs.

Do you have any recommended motivational speeches that are heart pumping?
Any recommendations on what to listen to while running?

Happy Sunday Everyone!!!

rundmach

Janathon Day 25

I will define my own bruises! I will define my own success! 

January 25 Run: 45:00 (mm:ss), 5.83 km, 7’44″/km (iPod)

Boy, if my treadmill could do the things I thought paying $800 for a machine would do, I would have completed 6 km. I know I complain about the treadmill a lot but I really wish I could just add 5 minutes to a current session without having to wait for it shut down, restart, and reselect all my run settings. I actually had set out to complete 5 km, so I set the treadmill to 45 minutes giving myself a good little buffer if I decided to run “slow”. My run felt pretty great! I steadily increased my pace from 4.8 up to 5.5 mph throughout the run. At each 8 minute interval, I had a 1 minute walk at 3.9 mph.

What drove me to running up to 5.5 mph? Well, You’ll have to thank motivational speeches as cliché as they are, they work! I was skimming through some online radio workout stations while running and I hit skip a LOT even on my own playlists. I came across this in a station: BEST Workout Motivation (warning, 9 minutes long and you will want to be a beast after this!). It wasn’t anything I haven’t heard before but I think around the 5 minute mark, the “WHO AM I?! I AM A CHAMPION” got me really really pumped up and that’s when I went from 4.9 to 5 to 5.1 to 5.3 in 1 interval. Nearing the end, with I think 4 minutes left, I looked at the actual distance and realized how close I could be to 6 km. I knew I wouldn’t hit it with my pace (I even knew 5.5 wouldn’t get me there), but I had to up the speed and get as close as I can in the 45 minutes I had set. I’m not heartbroken over not hitting 6 because that wasn’t what was going to define my successful run today, 5 k was the goal and I have achieved it. This doesn’t mean I’m settling for less either.

After the run, I continued with some more of my strength training exercises. The nice kind of sore happens almost every morning in my upper back / shoulder blades. I’m working on bringing sexy back! Haha.

So, here we are, the last week of  Janathon , with Day 25 completed early in the day. Yes, I went for my run before noon today! I have a family dinner tonight and well that will go late and include a lot of food. I did some cleaning and organizing in my basement. Prepped some of my fruits into snack sized containers. I also woke up at 7 am and didn’t get back to bed so I’ve had a pretty productive day so far! With only 6 more days of Janathon being the “reason” why I’m running, I have already been running for me but I like having Janathon be the excuse; plus it just seems easier to let myself down than an entire community! However, I am working at changing that mentality and working on focussing on me! 😀

Happy Running!

rundmach

Janathon Day 24

If you can’t get a miracle, become one. – Nick Vujicic 

January 24 Run: 25:00 (mm:ss), 3.23 km, 7’49″/km (iPod)

Hello, Janathon  day 24! I have completed you and continued my 25 day run streak! Boy does it feel good. I would love to be running more but really, the treadmill does get pretty boring. Today, I even contemplated running outside, I went outside for a walk to test the weather. About 300 metres out, I turned back home. The crazy wind-chill warnings weren’t a joke, up to 77 km/h winds!! I was bundled up and only my eyes were exposed under my eyeglasses. My eyes hurt from the wind so much I decided I would turn around and settle for the indoors.

It’s been over a week since I’ve run 5 k and I’m jonesing to get another 5 k in ASAP! I really wanted to make tonight the night after freshly silicone-ing up the treadmill but once I got ready, I decided I would continue to take it easy until I felt my body is 100% ache free. Man, am I getting old? I have to watch what I eat, exercise more, and weight is so much harder to shed. Is this what it’s like choosing a 9-5 desk job? I guess I should have already came to this conclusion much earlier. First 3 years in this job and I gained 30 pounds. Luckily, this year I’m halfway in and I haven’t gain any! *Whew* This running and watching what I eat must actually be working. Sometimes I envy those who get to be move active as part of their job even if they don’t realize it; for example, a teacher is on their feet most of the day, a retail associate (what I was doing before I sat my keister down for 8 hours a day) is on their feet most of their day, doctors, dentists, engineers, vets, contractors, and the list goes on of jobs where you are constantly moving. The other day at work, I sat down at 9 am and didn’t get up until 2:30 pm! I had my food and water at my desk with me so I didn’t even realize that I never even stood up for over 5 hours. I only ended up getting up to use the restroom! Isn’t that a little nuts? That’s 5 hours of sitting and all I’m moving are my fingers, typing away, analysing data, staring at a screen and giving my brain a major workout but my body a major setback. I normally try to ensure I get up multiple times a day – especially to refill my water, but to make sure I’m moving! So, how do I cope and get more exercise in? At one point I was trying to run during my lunch hour instead but really, who wants to sit at their desk all sweaty for the latter half of the day? There’s meetings and vendors to meet, no one wants to see an after run me in a professional setting.

What kind of job do you have? Is it active?
Do you have a 9-5 desk job? How do you cope?

Oh and one more thing, I saw this image the other day and it made me laugh because it’s pretty true.
Except for those of you who can buy healthy foods on a budget and learn to make it quick, the bravo!

So, today I saw this video and it’s pretty awesome! This is 200 Calories:

Happy Running Weekend!

rundmach

Janathon Day 23

Dear me, one day I’ll make you proud. – Charlotte Eriksson

January 23 Run: 20:00 (mm:ss), 2.59 km, 7’49″/km (iPod)

Today’s run was just a little scary. After yesterday’s run, my treadmill notified me I had to lube up the belt before I could run again. Well, I forgot this until it was 9 PM and I was all laced up and ready to go. I decided to bypass the notification and go for a more focussed 20 minute run. Why focused and why scared? A while back I was running on my mom’s treadmill (Frustrated Disappointment – woah July 2012!), I broke it! I broke my mom’s treadmill because she only used it for walking but when I visited her, I would run on it. After trying to figure out what was wrong, we were told that the treadmill burned out because she never greased it up and my running caused it to overheat and die. So, the run had to be focused just to be prepared if the treadmill decided to just shut off on me and scared because it’s scary when a treadmill just stops in mid-step. I am a little frustrated with reading my post from 2012 seeing that I was running at a 6 minute km pace and right now, I struggle to get a 7:30…. Add 2 minutes to the time I ran today, in 2012 I covered almost an entire km more… that’s so sad… OH but wait, my notes say that I was running at a 4.5 – 5 mph pace on the treadmill, that’s what I’m running now?! I wish I had taken note of what the treadmill read instead of my iPod. This must have been before I realized that my iPod had never calibrated the right distance or pace and is all hooey!!!

I completed my  Janathon  day 23 run which is my 24th day run streak! I’ve also been keeping up with my strength exercises after the run too!! I find it a lot easier to get these done when my heart is pumping after a run. I know I may not be running at what other runners are in terms of pace and distance, but hey, I’m still doing something that the old me would not have! I can’t believe I’ve gotten off my butt every day for 24 days and completed a physical activity outside of my regular routine of work, eat, sleep, repeat. It’s pretty awesome that right now I can say my regular routine is eat, sleep, work, run. Oh and showering is important now too I guess! Haha!

Happy Running!!!

rundmach

Janathon Day 22

One day, in retrospect, the years of struggle will strike you as the most beautiful. – Sigmund Freud

January 22 Run: 20:00 (mm:ss), 2.43 km, 8’18″/km (iPod)
January 22 Cycling: 10:00 (mm:ss), 4.43 km

Check it out, my cycling today was about the same distance as yesterday but 2 minutes faster. I aimed to bike for 10 minutes and didn’t think about pace either. My knee is feeling much better. Thanks for all the tips fellow bloggers! Today, I ran with a knee brace/tensor and it felt good. I ran pretty slow and it was tough keeping the treadmill at a slower pace but I knew it would be good for me. I still worked up a sweat!

I’m exhausted right now so this will be a short one and not very inspirational, sorry… Pretty long day too with a lot of focus/thinking/analysis done. Great day for being productive and getting work done but very tiring. Off to bed as I could barely stay awake after 4 at work.  On a happier note, it’s been 23 straight days of getting a run in and  Janathon  day 22 completed. Pretty awesome! 🙂

Happy Resting!

rundmach

Janathon Day 21

Continuous effort – not strength or intelligence – is the key to unlocking our potential. – Winston Churchill

January 21 Run: 8:00 (mm:ss), 1.01 km, 8’00″/km (Watch)
January 21 Cycling: 12:00 (mm:ss), 4.44 km

As you can see, for Janathon  day 21, I have completed a slow 1 kilometre run with a slow 12 minute session on my stationary bike. Not only was this due to coming home from running errands after work and having dinner at 8 pm, but because my knee has been hurting since last night’s run. I’ve had this sharp pain in my right knee that can’t be stretched out and relieved. When it’s not a sharp pain it just feels dull and irritated… I’m guessing it’s from the huge jump up in speed and possibly running at a higher incline. If it wasn’t for my determination to continue my running streak (now at 22 days!!), I would not have run at all (it’s not logical to right now with this sort of pain)…. Well, the biking didn’t help too much either as that enhanced a pain on the outside of my knee that I didn’t experience before but is now throbbing as it hurt every pedal…. I’ll be taking the pace slow again and see what I can do to make this better – I may even slow it down to an 8’30″/km tomorrow! Tomorrow, I plan on grabbing a knee tensor after work to wrap up my knee. Hopefully this will help, as well as help while I’m on the treadmill. I sound like such a whiny pants but I’m actually just hoping that my sad descriptions of my pain will spark some interest or experience you may have had that you can share with me.

I’ve also never tracked my cycling on a stationary bike. I’ve never been a big bike person…….*gasp*….. okay world…. Here’s one of my deepest secrets…. *deep breath in*…..  I can’t really ride a bike! Yup, there I said it, it’s out there… So, I can ride a bike forward on flat road and that’s about it. I can’t even tell you when the last time I rode a real bike outdoors was… I can tell you that the idea of being on a road bike going downhill terrifies me more than being in a room full of snakes. Well, my overall point of all of this is, I’m not even sure what the standards are? Is this like Running where I run at my own pace and I compare myself to myself or is there supposed to be a certain speed or distance covered within a time range that certifies a good effort work out? Are there certain stats I should be looking at or focussing on?

Overall, I am proud of myself for getting in my daily dose of activity. I did skip the strength exercises on the stability ball but I did do my weights. Anything that had to do with legs I kind of skipped tonight just to play it safe.

It is now way past my relax/bed time so off I go to rest and elevate my leg (does that even work for the knee?).

Happy Living! 🙂

rundmach

Janathon Day 20

A dream only becomes overrated when not pursued by the dreamer. – Courtney Hickman

January 20 Run: 20:00 (mm:ss), 2.72 km, 7’25″/km (iPod)

Janathon  day 20 has come and gone in a flash! Boy, Mondays always seem to fly by… not to mention coming home, making dinner, then spending over an hour on a puzzle and realizing it’s 8 pm, I should run! Yes, I said it, I’m addicted to this puzzle I got not too long ago and I can’t stop!! I’ll stop when it’s done. It is the most relaxing thing ever after a day at work. I’m addicted!!! Hmm… I feel the same about running yet I have more motivation to give an hour to sitting on my butt to work on the puzzle instead of get outside to run. *Sigh* … Right, back to my original point, it’s day 20! There’s only 11 days left to Janathon… Who’s going to keep my accountable after these 11 days? Myself??? I guess so…  Hopefully with your help!

Today’s run included a higher incline for the first 10 minutes, then a faster pace for the last 10 minutes. I got up to 6.2 miles per hour for the last 3 minutes!! Pretty awesome if I say so myself. I’d love to be able to run 6.2 miles per hour as my regular pace!! That would be my ideal ultimate fast pace. It’s a 6 minute kilometre and may seem slow to you but that would put me almost 2 minutes faster than my average pace. This was such an awesome run I wanted to run more but was feeling the pain in my right knee and ankles so thought I’d stop when the time stopped. I still find it weird that my treadmill doesn’t allow me to add time to a current workout to extend the run… I have to wait for it to complete and the reset before I start over and choose all the options all over again. Wow, enough side-thoughts… I kept the momentum of the high pace running and then did my strength training exercises in ultra fast speeds. You know, you’re working out really hard when you’re only on 20 sit ups on an exercise ball and you can’t decide which hurts more: my thighs from holding them firm on the group and perpendicular or my core from the sit-ups all the way down to my knees. Overall, I had a good half hour work out.

Here’s to dreaming and working hard to achieving a Happier Pace 🙂

rundmach

Janathon Day 19

My long-term goal is to be around to run long-term. – Jeremy Dobrick, Runner’s World

January 19 Run: 25 (mm:ss), 3.30 km, 7’37″/km (iPod)

Well, I didn’t go out today… It was snowing a bit earlier and pretty cold out so I stayed in and did laundry instead! I actually quite enjoyed my Sunday; I’m pretty sure I’d be an awesome hermit (inside my own home) if that choice was logical. I got around to my run in the evening since I’m now accustomed to it. As much as I mentally kept trying to get myself ready for a run during the day, I couldn’t get into it. On the plus side, at least I can still get myself into the workout spirit even if it is in he evening time.

Tonight I completed Janathon  day 19 with my regular strength training exercises and a 25 minute run at a gradually increasing pace (from 4.8 miles up to 6 miles per hour) at  a slightly higher incline than my norm.

I’m not going to lie, Bridesmaids is on TV and it’s a little distracting.

Lucky for me, my blog is my personal journal and well I encourage you to share my personal thoughts and feelings.

I love this blog, I love your blogs, and I love being able to keep myself accountable here without being judged.

Since it’s on commercial break I can now refocus and tell you about my new goal for this year. I know I’ve been talking about doing my first half marathon but for 2014, I have decided I’d like to complete a 10 miler race and a few more 10Ks under my belt before jumping into a half marathon.

 

I haven’t found any 10 milers that I am crazy about fundraising for… There is one not too far away from where I live and the treats are all chocolate! The only negative is this race is on Mother’s day and I don’t think my Mom would want to spend the day with me for my run, I’d rather me spending the day with her, for her.

Have you ever ran a 10 miler race? I can’t find that many…
Are there any in Ontario, Canada you would recommend?

rundmach

Janathon Day 18

Once you replace negative thoughts with positive ones, you’ll start having positive results. – Willie Nelson

January 18 Run: 20:00 (mm:ss), 2.61 km, 7’45″/km (iPod)

I may have wished for too much yesterday saying “Better Sore than Sorry” because today, I am SORE! I guess I’m not sorry at all but that extra speed, the little extra push for some more squats, and probably lack of stretching has caused my legs to be pretty sad today. When I stepped on the treadmill tonight (yes, don’t remind me that I was too lazy all day to run out in the sunlight), my quad/IT band area was still hurting quite a bit. Despite the stretching and foam roller session I did today to relax my legs, I felt like I was in a bit of pain. So, run it off! I decided I would cut my run short and run 1 km then get on the bike; the last thing I want to do is hurt myself and have to stop running all together for a while. Well, luckily, the pain subsided as I kept running so I completed the 20 minutes I had initially set out at what I’ll say is a pretty good pace for being in pain. On the crazy side today, my Nike+ watch which normally underestimates how much distance I’m doing on a treadmill decided it would bump up my self-esteem by saying I ran 2.74 kms at a 7’20″/km pace. I know, I can’t really trust the watch unless I’m out with GPS on (even though the point of the watch with a foot pod is for indoors)… Enough with the stats. I’m sore and so I did my strength exercises afterwards with some stretching. I did skip the squats today because well, I did 2 or 3 and my legs were screaming at me. I opted to do my squat reps in rotating sit ups.

#MegsMiles – Today’s mile was also ran for Meg. I won’t go into much detail other than my heart sinks each time I hear a tragedy like this. My heart goes out to her family. Find out more here.

Janathon  Day 18 Completed! 13 Days left but really, I hope it turns into a life time of habit!

I missed a shout out yesterday for Nick (Striding Towards Life) who’s doing a double-header, a 5k done today and his first marathon tomorrow! Can’t wait to read all about it! Good Luck Nick!!

Tomorrow, I have to figure out how to run in the morning as I have plans in the evening in which I won’t be home until later. I have been doing all my runs during the evening for quite some time now and shifting to the morning didn’t work when I tried to get out of bed today.  Here’s to hoping my legs are happy in the morning and I’m not a big lazy bones.

Happy Running!

rundmach

 

Janathon Day 17

BETTER SORE THAN SORRY!

January 17 Run: 30:00 (mm:ss), 3.86 km, 7’46″/km (iPod)

Happy Friday! I think I’m back to normal!! Nothing like retail therapy and cheesecake to get cured from any kind of sadness, deprivation, sickness or moodiness. Today I took the day off with a friend and drove over to Buffalo. If Janathon  counted walking for over 4 hours, I would not have done a run. We spent most of the day shopping and walking (when normally, we both have desk jobs and would have been sitting all day). I got a great haul! Although I got charged taxes again on my way back through the border, I guess that’s how it works (this was my first time!!). I recently read one of Suzan’s posts (Welcome to The Nut House) where you were struggling finding Jeans and this year your goal is to find Jeans that aren’t so Mom Jeans like. I’m excited for you for finding some pretty awesome jeans because that was my biggest excitement today! I found 2 pairs today and in an entire year, I am lucky if I can find 2 pairs of jeans that fit me properly!!! Although I’m not a mom and don’t have the mom jean complex, I have the, I’m short with thick legs and well, I’m short! Finding jeans that fit me is tough because most stores don’t even carry sizes that fit me and if the waist is the right size, I normally can’t even get them past my calves. So, two pairs of jeans, a bunch of candles, a new pair of running shorts, a warm long sleeve running top, and a visit to The Cheesecake Factory, I think I’m back to normal!!!

After getting home from a mini road trip / shopping spree, I got home and laced up. I had a wonderful 30 minute run. A little tough wanting to stop each time I knew I hit a mark (1 km, 10 minutes, 2 km). I just thought, Beach Body, I want that more than I want to stop now so each time I wanted to stop I told myself at each 10 minutes I would walk 1 minute. There we have it, Janathon Day 17 completed with my regular mini session of strength training afterwards. Oh and the strength training is working, my upper back and stomach/core have been a little sore lately when I wake up (all the spots I’ve been targeting)!! This is good sore!! 😀

Thank you to everyone who has been sooooooo extremely supportive in this time while I’ve been sick and then moody. No one like a crabby sicky pants so here I am thanking you for your patience and support. Can’t wait to log some more kms like I did today to make up for those less fortunate runs!

Happy Weekend and Good Luck to all those running this Weekend!
I know Ashley’s (Miles on Oats) doing her second Half Marathon – You’ll be amazing!!
I’ll be reading some more blogs to see what else you’re all up to 🙂

Keep being awesome and never stop!

rundmach

Janathon Day 16

It’s hard to wait around for something you know might never happen; but it’s harder to give up when you know it’s everything you want. – Unknown

January 16 Run: 8 min, 1 km, 8’06″/km (iPod)

My question tonight should be, how did I run 8 minutes on the treadmill and the treadmill tell me I’m running 7’56″/km pace when I did exactly 8 minutes and exactly 0.62 miles (1 km). My pace should read 8’00″/km on my iPod and Treadmill but both don’t seem to know how to do math. Maybe I’ve been doing math all wrong my entire life? Who knows… who cares.. my bigger question tonight is why am I doing this?! I’m feeling better but soooo exhausted. My 30 minute run was cut down to 8 minutes after having a cough attack, a sneezing fit, my chest hurt/throat was burning so bad from trying to breathe, and then really really had to pee. So, I was weak and after a kilometre I stepped off, ran to the wash-room, did my basic strength exercises and came here to blog. I’m just a little stressed out and I don’t even know why. Work isn’t that stressful. I have the day off tomorrow to visit the U.S. for some shopping. I’m not as sick as I was a few days ago. Today I checked up on a few blogs and they were keeping me motivated all day to get home and get my Janathon   run for Day 16 in. Your blogs are definitely inspirational and helping… Yet here I am, grumpy and grouchy and all I want is to sleep for 24 hours. Maybe it’s time to hibernate?

Sorry for being such a downer tonight; I know I need to be back to my optimistic self to get through this and run some more. I need to run more, I love to run, but I also love sleep… I must not forget, getting a good nights rest and sleep are part of a healthy life.

Good night for now.

Happier Running wishes being sent your way!

rundmach

Janathon Day 15

It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities. – J. K. Rowling

January 15 Run: 18:00 (mm:ss), 2.33 km, 7’47″/km (iPod)

A little different kind of day compared to yesterday. Work felt a lot slower today, I felt exhausted, moody, and basically just cranky. Have you ever had one of those days? Well, after a day like that, nothing was on my mind – not even running. So, I gave what my goal was and did the 2 kms. I did a bit more in terms of sit ups and weights afterwards but probably still not nearly enough. I need to up my cross and strength training! That may be a goal after accomplishing 2 km’s a day for January.

Health-wise I’m probably 95%!! The only other bit is just getting some rest and getting my stomach back to normal. Although during today’s run, I did have to slow down so I could actually blow my nose… that’s not something I can multi-task.

I read a pretty helpful article on Runner’s World today, The 6 Best Exercises for New Runners. There’s some great information in this article – even if you aren’t a new runner!!! The exercises are all basic and pretty easy to perform.

Well, Janathon  Day 15 has been completed with a 2 km run. I am on a 16 day run streak! I would have never thought I’d run this many days straight!! I’d like to be a lot more excited but maybe when the month is over and I see a few pounds go (I thought I was losing weight but I’m not)… I know, diet has a lot to do with it too and having pizza for dinner tonight was probably not a good idea. I miss those days when I ate mall food every day and I weighed a lot less than I do now. I like bad foods and I like good foods. I like to eat and I don’t want to give it up. Even in fruits I’ve been told I eat it too much – too much sugar all the time and I eat it all day every day (sugar at night is not as good for you apparently). So, I’ll control myself with moderation – which is why I didn’t eat an entire pizza to myself, I can you know! … I shouldn’t be that proud of that fact but I’m proud I ate two of the smaller slices to the pizza and stopped after that.

I’m not sure how much truth there is to this image below (I’m too tired to do the research on this but it seems appropriate)…

It might be true and it might be a myth and there’s a 95% chance that the percentage is purely made up but there’s a 100% craving for some pop and burgers now… This picture is also missing fries! Haha… Stupid advertising.
Unfortunately, if our choices make us who we are and you are what you eat, I’m a big round, greasy, piece of deliciousness! Luckily, I do make other good choices and it’s not like I have pizza every day. 🙂

I hope you’ve been stronger than I and saying NO to those bad craving and substitute with healthier choices.

Until tomorrow’s run, Happy Running! (or Biking, or Walking, or Swimming, or Cross/Strength Training, or whatever you are blogging about because I like reading your blog too!)

rundmach

Janathon Day 14

People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Well, neither does bathing – that’s why we recommend it daily. – Zig Ziglar

January 14 Run: 38:00 (mm:ss), 5.17 km, 7’25″/km (iPod)

Tonight’s run does not include full pics of the treadmill reads since the run was split into two intervals: a 30 minute set plus an 8 minute set. This happened again by setting the treadmill to 30 minutes at the beginning when I intended to run maybe 26 (3 kms). After 30 minutes I was at 4 kms and felt good enough that it wouldn’t hurt me to run 8 more minutes (1 km). The treadmill read 3.21 miles in 38 minutes, so my pace here was pretty amazing, 7’21″/km. I did try to push myself a whole lot harder.

No, unfortunately, I’m not 100% better. However, during the entire run, I only had 1 cough attack which wasn’t so bad! Each day the symptoms seem to change a little bit but today I do feel better. Headache is gone and my nose isn’t running faster than me anymore! I am still nauseous at times and feel sick to the stomach but that little bug can kiss it while I suck it up and run. My chest still feels heavy and throat is still scratchy.

Since I’ve been sick for quite a few days now, I’ve decided I should just fake it until I make it. Who cares if I’m not feeling well? I’ve got to get in some kilometres and that’s just what I did! It’s been 2 weeks of Janathon  now and I haven’t given a rest day yet to running! How can I? Your runs and blog posts are keeping me inspired, I must keep going!

Thank you for being my motivation right now!

Happy Running!

rundmach

Janathon Day 13

Change doesn’t come unless you push yourself. 

January 13 Run: 18:00 (mm:ss), 2.20 km, 8’15″/km (iPod)

What’s new? I’m still feeling sick. Went to work, didn’t feel nearly as bad as I have the last few days, made it through, and got home in one piece. Feeling a lot more nauseous tonight and a lot more coughing tonight than during the entire day. Sick of being a lazy butt and doing 1 km, I put myself on the treadmill for 18 minutes – whatever distance this would have equated to would be it. I put the speed up just one notch higher than the last 2 days since I really wanted to push myself out of this self-pity of sickness. In the end I completed a bit more than 2 k at a pace a little quicker than the last 2 days. No where near back to normal – my chest was killing me and a few cough attacks during the running proved quite challenging. Janathon  Day 13 Completed.

I’d like to get back to my normal self and run outside again. Now, I am a little hesitant to get back outside; worried I will over/under-dress, slip on all the ice, waste too much time getting dressed (since the treadmill is easy to get ready for), not have water with me, etc. The motivation to get outside is not back and I’m worried I may lose momentum… Help?…

By the way, have I ever mentioned how much I appreciate YOU? The reader, yes, you! Thank you for your likes, for your comments, and for your support! You’re making me feel a lot better and helping me stay accountable to being active every day during this time where I only want to curl up in bed. Not only do I get on the treadmill – when I’m done my stretches, I do some other exercises. I would not be doing any of this without you, THANK YOU!!

Happy Running.

rundmach

Janathon Day 12

We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act but a habit. – Aristotle

January 12 Run: 9:00 (m:ss), 1.08 km, 8’28″/km (iPod)

Janathon  Day 12 is now complete with another 1 kilometre run. I was really hoping today would be a 3 or 5 k run outside but seriously, I am up and down with being better and being a lot worse. I had to head over to my Mom’s this afternoon to bring her an early birthday gift. Her birthday’s not until later in February but there was this cross-walk treadmill on sale that she wanted so we went to pick it up, bring it over, and help put it together. All this and being sick I felt decent being out of the house. Luckily, I have a wonderful Mom who made me a great soup to take hope (which I’m enjoying now and soothing my throat). On the way home, I got  drowsy/weak and slept in the car and felt worse again. Got in, slept some more. Finally got up and stepped on the treadmill for a measly 1k run. I feel worse today after running maybe because I didn’t even have the energy to get down the stairs to the treadmill… I’m beginning to question if running is making me more sick because my body just needs time to rest… and then I think, no way I’m breaking my running streak! I’d rather be a little weak than to ever regret not running when I physically can.

It’s your choice!

I’m sick of being sick and I’m sick of not being able to focus on anything else other than being sick.
I’m chilled to the bone even though I keep waking up in heat sweats… off to take a bath and more sleep in hopes I can survive Monday.

rundmach

Janathon Day 11

The sick are the greatest danger for the healthy; it is not from the strongest that harm comes to the strong, but from the weakest. – Friedrich Nietzsche

Even though I’m sick, I can’t break this running streak; so, if running 1 km is what I have to do, it’s what I will do.

January 11 Run: 9:00 (mm:ss), 1.08 km, 8’25″/km (iPod)

Well, Janathon  is about getting up and being active when you wouldn’t have been. I may have jinxed myself yesterday because I am sicker than ever. My head is pounding, ears are stuffed, nose is running, throat hurts, coughing, and getting hot cold spells. With all of this, I spent the entire day bundled up and lying around. I only made my way downstairs from my bed when I got hungry and had to come down so I stayed on the couch all day. Really, the pounding headache was the only thing that hurt me the most. After some ibuprofen and more sleeping I got up and “ran” a kilometre on the treadmill. It was probably a jogging pace for most but it was still a running pace for me and with the way I was drinking water for those 9 minutes, you’d think I had been running 10k.

To my surprise, after feeling so miserable all day, before, and during my run, I now feel pretty good. My nose and my throat are still being a pain but it seems I feel more awake than I have at all today and the headache has subsided for the time being. Look at this post! It’s getting long, I thought I’d only be able to log the run and then pass out!

Some might say I’m crazy for not just resting and some might think I’m inspirational for getting up, I think I’m a little bit of both. The logical left side of my brain said to stay down and be wrapped up, continuing moping around and be weak. The fantasy based right side of my brain said how bad can 1 k be? Even if I run it slower than what I’ve been running, it will still be 1 extra kilometre I would not have done.

It’s been 12 days now of running and after January, I’d like to keep this running streak going. Hopefully by day 365 I’ll have done so many kilometres, being sick won’t matter! I’ll be on vacation in March though so let’s see how that works out for running every day…

It doesn’t seem like I’m the only one getting sick, so I hope you’re all staying healthy and doing well!
I’ll end today with two little images since I couldn’t choose between them.

Happy Running!

rundmach

Janathon Day 10

Remember, the feeling you get from a good run is far better than the feeling you get from sitting around wishing you were running. – Sarah Condor

If my nose is running more than I have today, does that count? I’m sure it doesn’t… so after spending my vacation day curled up on the couch, staying warm, and turning my nose into Rudolph’s, I got up to run…

January 10 Run: 16:00 (mm:ss), 2.01 km, 8’04″/km (iPod)

Okay, so I’m sure I would have spent my day off being lazy but I’m sure it would have been way more enjoyable than a scratchy throat and a nose that won’t stop running. However, running with a nose that’s running faster than you are is pretty annoying. Although my run was only for 16 minutes as compared to the 40 yesterday, I completed my 2 km goal plus a few other exercises. More than I can say for all of those other sick days I’ve had. I did plan ahead and put a lot of tissues at my treadmill. I think I had to wipe my nose more than I had to wipe sweat – not that I didn’t work up a sweat! Here’s to completing Day 10 of Janathon! 

I spent all day watching mindless television and playing Catan online… I decided I would watch some inspirational videos on Youtube, so here’s what helped me get off the couch, thanks Ben!

I was looking forward to having the day off and running outside during daylight but if I get better soon, I have tomorrow or Sunday still! I have also taken the remaining Fridays off for the rest of January – hello 4 day work weeks! I do plan on spending these days being active. Next Friday I’ll be heading over to Buffalo to shop. I will be on my feet walking, ALL DAY compared to the 8 hours I would have been spending sitting at work. Now here comes a very important question – Does shopping all day count as exercise towards Janathon? 

Happy Friday 🙂

rundmach

Janathon Day 9

If you sell yourself short, so will everyone else. 

January 9 Run: 41 minutes, 5.18 km (3.22 miles), and a kicked the treadmill’s butt pace!

Okay, so here’s the breakdown, I’m still sick with a bit of a sore throat today, but feeling better. Stayed late at work today to get some stuff done (had a major breakthrough in Excel again and I booked tomorrow off). Yay, today was my Friday at work! Anyways, I put myself to the treadmill not really wanting to at all since I got home a little later than normal. I set 18 minutes to run a little more than my 16 minute 2 km run. Since the time flew by and I felt so strong, I put another 7 minutes to the treadmill. After completing my run and completing my run on my iPod, I stepped off the treadmill and still felt strong. I WANTED MORE! I even thought about setting the treadmill to 60 minutes just to see how long I could go. I ended up decided another 16 minutes to add another 2 km. All that adding puts me here: 41 minutes, 5.18 km, and an average pace of 7’55″/km (according to a pace calculator).

No real photo to give you that will have all the details and not sure what to upload from my devices that shows all of my stats in one place. I decided to upload the 3 runs from the treadmill online and this is all I get (see below). Yeah, the Livestrong treadmill kind of sucks and so does the website (it’s hard to navigate through online and the treadmill doesn’t give you too much room to be creative). Unfortunately, the Livestrong site says I only burned 183 calories and I’m pretty sure 5 k burns a whole lot more than that at my weight, haha. I don’t mean to give them a bad review, maybe I’m just so accustomed to the Nike+ site…

Now I’m sweaty and gross, again. Time to shower, again. Eat, again. Sleep, again. Run, again! 🙂

Happy Day 9 Janathon to all of those who are participating and Happy Life/Running to everyone else!
(Because really, what’s life without running?)

rundmach

Janathon Day 8

An obstacle is often a stepping stone. – Prescott

January 8 Run: 16:00 (mm:ss), 2 km, 8’05″/km (iPod)

I’m coming down with a sickness… I’ve been coughing all day… After getting a shower in the morning for work, all I wanted to do was go back to bed. It even got to a point where I had such a major cough attack in the afternoon, I just smashed my head into my desk wishing it would all end. I thought about coming home and substituting the run with a longer yoga session (I haven’t done yoga in a long time!) but at least yoga would count towards Janathon. I thought about cycling… then I thought how I’d feel if I broke my 8 day run streak just because of a silly potential sickness. I got home and slowly moseyed along until I got all my basic running items on. Two kilometres later, here I am. Glass of Orange Juice to help get extra vitamin c in and one set of hurting lungs / throat / chest. Luckily, I only had one cough attack during the run and that was early on. Boy is it tough trying to run while coughing. The best thing about today, I WANTED TO RUN all day long. That’s all I wanted. I kept thinking that I wanted the cough to go away so I could have a good run. I wanted to feel less tired so I could have a good run. I had a good run because I ran. 🙂

I wish I could spend some time writing some creative or funny blog post but really, I’d just like to go to sleep.

Good Night & Good Run!

rundmach

Janathon Day 7

Just Do It. – Nike

January 7 Run: 16:00 (mm:ss), 2.08 km, 7’47″/km (iPod)

Luckily almost doesn’t count – almost didn’t run today!
Initially I started the day off being excited that I would come home and complete day 7 of Janathon, day 8 of straight running (Starting with a 5K Resolution Run December 31!). Well, my day was exhausting at work, really mentally exhausting. By the time I got home, I just wanted to curl up in bed, get warm, and zone out. After bumming around the couch for over an hour I finally got up and put myself on the treadmill for 2 kms. Done and Done.

“Wow, I really regret that run” – Said by no one ever!
(Unless something unfortunate happens on that run… then I’m sorry… 😦 ) 

So. Brain. Dead. Tonight.. short post… Just Run.

rundmach

Janathon Day 6

The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance. The wise grows it under his feet. – James Oppenheim

The way I see it… Runners grow happiness under their feet and flourish in the distance.

January 6 Run: 16:00 (mm:ss), 2.12 km, 7’32″/km (iPod)

There it is!!! Janathon Day 6 complete – another 2 km! I honestly thought that by 6 day I would have caved and done a cycling session instead. I may not have blogged it yet and as it is always said at my work “if it’s written it’s real”, I plan to run a minimum of 2 km a day for the month of January (or at least average out 2 km a day for January). If I decide to cycle instead of run then I will have to ensure the day before or after is at least a 4 km run. Here we are on a Monday after a very busy day at work, I planned that I would be exhausted (mentally) from work so I did 4 kms yesterday in anticipation. Well, I got home after a long day and all I wanted to do was run!!! Maybe I should have done more than 2 kms on the treadmill, but I was dripping of sweat so I knew I got a good work out in. Sometimes 2 kms sound so minimal to me and others it sounds like it’s unachievable! Right now, it’s perfect for me.

Oh by the way, it is -17°C (feels like -29°C) with freezing rain and wind chill warnings and wind gusts at 34 km/h up to 53 km/h. Based on the freezing rain last night, all the sidewalks were iced up and skateable! I don’t think my spikes would have saved me. This is why I opted for the treadmill tonight, haha. It was a no brainer.

Believe in yourself! I believe in me and I can’t wait to see how far my body will go with running every day for an entire month! Part of my Janathon goal is to not let my mental get in the way. I will do what my body can physically do on its own and shut my brain off!

Happy Running.

rundmach

Janathon Day 5

You have to expect things of yourself before you can do them. – Michael Jordan

January 5 Run: 30:47 (mm:ss), 4.01 km, 7”40″/km

Not only does it make you feel 50% more hardcore; the way I see it, you actually are!!!

That’s what I’m talking about!!! Getting back into the groove and into what my pace should be. Yes, running is running but I’d like to set some goals. I’m not competing with anyone else but myself – so I’d just like to be running faster and stronger than I was last year. Today’s run was amazing – considering I had gone for a run later in the day yesterday, I thought today’s would be a slower recovery run done early in the morning. Well, it wasn’t quite as early as I’d hope but I got out the door by 10:30 am. Luckily, I missed all the freezing rain by the time I headed out to door. Is it bad, I’m slightly disappointed I didn’t get to run in the rain?

I am proud of this run not only because the pace is faster than what it has been lately, but because I knew I could go even faster! Why didn’t I? The route I was running still had quite a bit of snow and with the rain in the morning it was pretty slushy, uck! Luckily, I had my yaktrax on (they’re amazing!), and I did my run with short quick steps… they weren’t all super quick as this got pretty tiring pretty quickly! I was motivated to run on and hit each km within 7 minutes – I did 7 minute run plus 1 minute walk until I got to today’s goal of 4 kms. Did I just say that? I included walking in my run today and I ran a faster pace? Yup!! I need to get back onto proper training (interval runs, speed runs, hills, etc…) BUT I’m not making excuses, I’d just like to spend January and Janathon being active and enjoying life. Not everything has to be so serious. Just Be Happy 🙂

Happy Running!

rundmach

Janathon Day 4

It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop. – Confucius 

January 4 Run: 42 min, 5.02 km, 8’20″/km

Today’s wonderful, slow, steady run was accomplished outside!! Yay, outside! Although I didn’t get my butt out there until 5:30 pm, it was already dark out! It’s 7 PM now and it look likes it should be midnight. Glad to be able to get outside again in -1°C (feels like -7°C) weather. A little windy (21 km/h) but still fantastic compared to a treadmill run! I went my pace; even though I thought I was going fast but ended up being “slow” – thanks snow! I love snow so I can’t really be upset. 🙂

runrchatts came out and joined me for my run which was great. I always enjoy his company. No music, just a little bit of chit chatting wherever I could get the breathes in to, haha. I didn’t really look at my watch too much other than for timing to see how long I’ve been running each interval. I did look at my pace as I mentioned earlier thinking I was running faster but I didn’t push myself harder or make myself go slower – I just went out and ran.

If you aren’t aware yet, I’m participating in Janathon! Run – Log – Blog for the entire month, every single day. Yes, you can substitute Runs with any sort of physically activity (I’m sure I’ll have a few cycling days). So, for day 4, I got in a good 1 hour work out, 40 minute run and a nice little walk outside after.  Thanks to @janathon_ , I have now signed up for twitter too!

So much social media: twitter, facebook, blog, nike+, Running Free (not sure how to get to my personal page), pinterest, and I’m sure I’m part of a bunch of other sites I’m not even sure how to use. The below “Social Media Explained” has been pretty helpful (even at my work I’ve used this a few times about a year ago to help get a handle on all of this and get a good laugh). Why so many different mediums? Well, I really do enjoy reading your stories and blogs but it’s a lot easier to find other Janathoners out there through twitter/facebook so I’ve joined to be able to connect with more of you and read more inspirational stories. Any-who, my username on anything I’m signed up for is rundmach so please, add me, follow me, invite me, let’s be friends! 😀

Enjoy the weekend running!

rundmach

Janathon Day 3

The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity. – Emelia Earhart

January 3 Run: 16:08 (mm:ss), 2.32 KM, 6’55″/km (iPod Nano records)

I had revelation today while running! I warn you, this paragraph is a little boring about stats so if you skip to the next paragraph, I won’t blame you! I couldn’t figure out why the image to the right (my treadmill) has been so different from my Nike+ Sportswatch. Better yet, I have been beating myself up about how much slower I am now than I was earlier last year while running on the same treadmill.  I was using my iPod Nano over the new watch I have!!! The Nano is off to the real distance outside when tracked with a map, but after confiding in runrchatts, I should trust in the treadmill stats. So, here we are. Treadmill reads 1.45 miles (2.32 km while my watch read 1.84 km). It’s not that I’m being lazy, it’s just because I can tell I am pushing myself way way way harder on the treadmill than I ever am outside. On the treadmill tonight I ran at 5.5 miles per hour or 11 minute mile pace; that’s equivalent to 6’50″/km when my average pace should be around 7″45″/km. Going forward, my treadmill runs will be loaded with my iPod nano instead of my watch (the iPod nano has the ability to be calibrated – this means I can adjust to the distance I see on the treadmill).

After discovering the discrepancy, I am super excited to know that I am not all that slow compared to where I was early last year. It is not about being better than someone else, but it’s about being better than I was yesterday and if I am digressing, then it’s a little demotivating. Today, I have discovered I may not be all that slow – it’s just the treadmill and the devices. Maybe I should take my own advice and JUST RUN!

Now that the extreme wind-chill and cold weather alerts are off, I’m excited to get outside and run this weekend!!!

Janathon Day 3 now complete! Woohoo!!! I hope you’ve been training, running, working out, being active and logging it in! It’s worth it!! At least for me it is. Thanks for your likes and supports! Thanks for sharing your journey with the world and me! Thank you fellow bloggers, runners, and Janathoners!

Don’t look at your watch or think too much, just lace up and run!

Happy Running

rundmach

http://www.janathon.com

Janathon Day 2

Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted. – William Bruce Cameron

Day 2 of the Janathon Challenge – Run, Blog, Repeat.

January 2 Run: 19:34 (mm:ss), 2.19 km, 8’55″/km

I’m getting slower on the treadmill? I thought I was going faster. On the treadmill I completed 20 minutes, 1.65 miles (2.66 km), at a 12 minute mile (7’30″/km). See below for complete comparison between the pieces of technology that will make me go insane one day.

So there it is, 3 different items with the same person doing the same thing at the same time and 3 pretty different outcomes.

Well, I guess it doesn’t matter. Those 20 minutes were killer and I was basically wheezing at the end of it.
I have a lot I want to keep blogging about but since I’ll be doing this for another 29 days, this one will be a shorter one as I’d like to take a bath and relax my muscles.

Good luck to all those out there aiming to succeed in Janathon! It’s only day 2 and I thought about resting – only for half a second!
Please feel free to add me to Nike+ or Running Free – my username is rundmach. 🙂

Happy Running!

rundmach

http://www.janathon.com
p.s. I’m not sure if I’m supposed to put the logo and link to the site to every blog post, so I will do it anyways.

Janathon Day 1

JANATHON 2014!!!!

RUN EVERY DAY*
BLOG EVERY DAY**
SIMPLE, ISN’T IT?***

*Or do some other form of exercise (swim, bike, etc.)
**Or tweet
***Um, no, it’s harder than you think!

So, that’s about it, Run & Blog everyday,  find out everything else you need to know about Janathon here: http://www.janathon.com.

I remember stumbling across Janathon last year right near the end of the month and figured well it’s too late now – I never knew you could join anytime!
Well, here we are in 2014 and I got home around 9:30 PM (it’s about -23°C here with the windchill) so I laced up and got on the treadmill. There was no way I was going to let myself say “Oh in another 364 days I’ll give this Janathon thing a shot”. The time is NOW!

January 1 Run: 17:22 (mm:ss), 2.02 km, 8’36″/km

Although it was a short run, I was determined to make 2 kms (aiming for around 15 minutes…). This was a treadmill run, and guess what? The treadmill says I did 2.59 km while my Nike+ watch said I did 2.02 km… If you’ve missed it before, none of my tech pieces seem to sync up but I’m gauging all of my runs off of the watch that follows me everywhere I go – so I ran the extra few on the treadmill so that my watch would add up to 2 KMs. Whooooweee was that ever a long 2 km, felt like the longest 2 k I have ever ran!
Check out the comparison below between my Nike+ watch and my iPod nano with the Nike+ built-in… a minute off (since I turned the iPod on earlier) but an extra 550 meters? I don’t think I can run that fast!

Why 2 kilometres (1.24 miles)? Well, I haven’t quite set my 2014 goals yet but if I do set one, it might be to cover a total of 730 kms in 2014 (that’s 2 kms a day). This year I did covered a total of 481 km! That’s a big difference!!! I’m not 100% sure if this is what I want to do as I’ll have my ever so enjoyable 5k runs and races along with some 10 k races but let’s not start the year off too harsh and at least get the 2kms in while I can! It’s not like the goal is to actually run 2 kms a day but to average out 2 kms a day for the entire year.

I think I’m all signed up on Janathon and on the Running Free site that is being recommended (but it can’t seem to connect to my Nike+ and I haven’t had time to figure out how to upload my workouts). I’m rundmach on those sites as well so please add me! I’ll figure all of this stuff out later when I’m not sleepy and need to get to bed for work tomorrow…

Just one more thing to cover… I got to kick off the New Year with some new kicks! I bought my running shoe in the previous year’s model a few months back because they were half the price of the pair I’m currently running. There were no major changes to the shoe so I saved them for the New Year! These are the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 12’s – I’m currently in the 13’s which I have duct taped the inside to “weather” proof them so these 12’s will be my new indoor/treadmill shoe for now. They felt pretty awesome! 🙂 (I’m a big Nike fan but unfortunately, their shoes just aren’t made for my feet and for me to run in).

I’m not sure how I can keep track to run/be active everyday and blog everyday, but this will be a fun experiment to see how long I can go!

Are you participating in Janathon? Have you set some New Years goals yet?

Happy New Year and Happy Running!!!! 😀

Live everyday with Love or running – it’s practically the same thing ♥.

rundmach

Resolutions Resolved

If you want to test your memory, try to recall what you were worrying about one year ago today. – E. Joseph Cossman

The end is near… at least the end of this year!

Resolution Run by Brita & Running Room
December 31 Run: 39:22 (mm:ss), 5.05 km, 7’47″/km

I’m excited to end off a Year with a run. Seeing my tags for my posts with “New Years Resolution” still being one of the larger ones means I’ve kind of succeeded! I’ve continued running this entire year! I have gone for at least 1 run every month this year!! I can’t wait to set new goals for the New Year. I’ve been reading a bunch of inspiring and touching year-end recaps and excited goals for the New Year, I wish you all the best! Your stories and blogs inspire me to continue.

Tonight’s run was at the pace that is comfortable to me without my spikes… didn’t think I would need them since I thought it was a regular “race” but we ran the sidewalks and was following pedestrian rules. The sidewalks were a little dangerous with ice and snow all around so we were all being “slower” and more careful with each step. Although I kept the same pace as my last run, my average heart rate was ridiculously higher than my average, guess I really ran my heart out! There’s no medal or anything but a super cool race jacket! I am so thankful for all of the volunteers, Brita, and all of the staff at the Burlington Running Room (and anyone else who may have been involved).

Thank you runrchatts for doing this run with me! I remember a few months back I didn’t want to do this alone since it was at 5 PM race and I had to go to work this morning so I signed him up and asked him to join me 🙂 Thank you for running my pace as well.

I am a runner. A slow runner. I might be going slower than a snail who’s stuck in peanut butter but I am still moving and proud of it!

This has been an amazing year with a lot of amazing victories: my first 10k, my second 10k, a couple of 5ks in the mix, and a whole lot of money raised for causes I believe in. The only resolution that has been left unresolved is my weight – I started and will be ending the year weighing the exact same. I’m not too bummed out about this since I feel much healthier than I did last year! 🙂
I am off to plan out my New Year and decide on the runs I’d like to do, volunteer for, and charities/causes I’d like to raise some funds for.

Have a fantastic New Year!!!

rundmach

Any Day Now

GOOD MORNING,

Yes, it is still morning and I’ve already been out for a run, I think it’s time to hit the sack as I’ve completed my goals for the day. Ha, yeah right! There’s still laundry and cleaning at bay!

April 27 Run: 46 minutes, 3.73 miles (6km, 6.42 km on Nike+)

Today’s run time consisted of ONLY my run time, no warm up or cool down. Luckily, I was able to get to run with runrchatts again today. Without him, I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t have run in the morning. THANK YOU! 😀 He was only free for the morning so that’s why I ran in the morning. Oh and as I blog, he’s still out running now!!

We got outside and I told him today I wanted to do 6 km, I have no other plans other than to just run and finish 6km. We did 6 km straight but it was a struggle for me. After 1/4 of a km I was already exhausted and wanted to stop. I felt really bad about the slow pace I was going as I could tell it was too easy for rchatts. At 1.5, 2.5, 3.5, 4.5, and 5.5 km, I noticed how hard it was for me to breathe. I like running with rchatts because he has his GPS on his armband which is next to the side I run on; so every time I catch up to him, I’m able to see the true distance since my Nike+ App is wrong on my iPod Nano. I was panting for air every time but the run was worth it. It was 46 minutes of straight running, that’s only 3.2% of my day! Sounds so insignificant to the overall when it does so much for the bigger picture.

Breathing is still a struggle for me on some days and today was horrible. It has to come…. My breath is just not there… there’s something blocking my lungs and I can feel my body stopping my breathes from going down my throat. What’s my problem? I’ve tried doing breathing exercises while I’m not running, focussing on my breathe as much as I can but very little improvement has come. Do you have any suggestions?

GPS RUNNING WATCH: Do you wear a running watch of some sort? Do you have a GPS watch? What do you run with? Please share and provide me with your feedback on your product of choice or even negative feedback on others. I’m contemplating getting the Nike+ GPS Watch but I’ve heard Garmin is really good (just pricey). I would really appreciate any insight from you as I really want to be able to keep track of my own progress when I run on my own.

It’s going to be a beautiful weekend, I hope you get outside and enjoy it! 🙂

rundmach

Icing 12:1

Good Evening Readers,

I have a lot to blog about tonight and I don’t quite know where to begin so I apologize if I am all over the place tonight. I’ll start off with the easy part, my run.

April 19 Run: 77 min, 5.87 miles (9.86 km, 9.67 km on Nike+) – Treadmill

Unfortunately, tonight was a treadmill run and a 10K Plan run. I’m finding a lot more enjoyment running outside and loving running a whole lot more when I do it outside. If I’m on a treadmill and I want to run faster so I can finish faster, I have to think too much (what speed am I increasing by, how much time do I knock off of the time set on the treadmill, etc.). The run itself was fairly tough. 5 minute walk followed by three 21 minutes and 36 second run intervals with a 1 minute walk in between and a 5 minute cool down. The first interval was okay and I thought the following two would be just as challenging but manageable; I was wrong. The second one was extremely tough! By the third interval, my ARMS were tired of running. That’s no typo, my arms were actually really tired and didn’t want me to go on anymore. In the end, I finished it and I’m happy I did even though it was hard. I have tried to run the last two nights and ended up going to bed sad I didn’t; but it’s okay now, I ran! 🙂

Advice: NEVER EVER have a spoonful of icing before running… Yes, Betty Crocker icing is one of my many guilty pleasures and I decided to have a spoonful before my run today. Darn my silly sweet tooth! Anyways, the taste of that coming up while running, not so good.

In other great news, I’ve found a new home!!! I’ll be moving in June 1st!!! I don’t know the area very well but it’s a convenient location with many amenities close by. The neighbourhood seems safe to run in, which was key to looking for a new place! I’m very excited to be moving here as it will feel like a real home. It’s a townhouse with a back yard and front yard. No more apartment! Wohoo! 🙂

In addition to that great news, I have even more exciting news: I’ve made my goal of raising $250 for Camp Oochigeas! Thank you to two lovely ladies at work! I am still fundraising so if you’d like to donate a couple bucks, please do so by clicking here or read more here.

This weekend may end up being a rest weekend since I’ll be out of the city and in Toronto to cheer some runners on at the Yonge Street 10k. I’ll be cheering on random strangers but also Runrchatts, I Hate/Love Running, and Eric Y. at the finish line!! I’m super stoked to be in the crowd. I’m definitely jealous that these guys are all getting a medal as I can’t wait to get mine in May! I’ve made a few signs, I’ll only show two for now. Good luck everyone running a race this weekend!!!

Only 3 more weeks until my 10k run!! Wohoo!!! I’m not sure if I’ll be sticking to the plan so much anymore as time is getting too close and I don’t want to over-run. I may start slowing down my runs after another week. Who knows. I’ll just listen to my body and run. 🙂

Have a wonderful weekend and don’t forget to run!

rundmach

Treasure Chest 11:1

Hi there!

I must warn you in advance this will be a long post. I haven’t blogged since mid last week so I’ve got a lot to cover and I’m sure there’s a lot you’ll want to hear about as well!

Hills, Personal Best, Celebrations, and Fundraising. I’ll start with the easier bit, today’s run.

April 9 Run: 74 minutes, 5.87 miltes (9.45 km on Nike+)

WOHOOO! My Nike+ actually showed the correct distance I ran today!!! I actually ran indoors on my treadmill since it’s raining pretty hard out. Today’s intervals went as such: 5 minute warm up, and 3 intervals of 20 minutes 24 seconds run with a 1 minute walk in between each interval and ending with a 5 minute walk. Today’s run was supposed to be easy with two rest days since my 5K run on Saturday (more to come in the next paragraphs). The first two intervals weren’t too bad but the last one was challenging: not only was I starting to get the sense that maybe I’m getting bored (because it’s a treadmill and not the beauty of nature), I also felt my toes and my left hamstring starting to tense up and become too tired/sore. I pushed through it and just kept moving on to keep me on pace to doing the 10k in May. Now I may be taking another 2 rest days before doing this run again as I have to do this run another 2 more times before advancing. Let’s see how my legs feel in two days time.

New items added to my running memorabilia shoe box. My Treasure Chest. Can’t wait to collect more goodies from more races! 😀

5k Harry Rosen Run: First off, I’d like to send huge thanks to runrchatts for coming out, pacing me, and supporting me for the run! Without you, I wouldn’t have done as well as I did, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Second, this is my Personal Best 5K during a race (I’ve only done two but this is my first chipped race). I did 5KM in 35:04:04…. Yes, 4:04 seconds short of my goal!! I am definitely disappointed with this as I lost about 40 seconds in the last half km due to the race finishing on a hill. They warned us there was a hill… after the 4th KM I thought I hit the hill and mentally got myself up this “hill” for about 500 metres. When we hit the a flat for 100 I was excited the hill was over and I could speed up for the end. Unfortunately, the last 300m was the real hill! I think I got up about 2/3 of the way (but it was probably half) before my legs froze. Honestly, I didn’t think I hit a wall. I thought I had this and fought every part of my body to keep going but somehow my legs just stopped moving. Even walking up the hill seemed impossible at the time. Is this the Wall? Well, I made it. I ran the entire race up to that point (about 31 minutes straight). How did my legs freeze and feel like I was stoned from the waist down? Is this really what the wall is or is this just due to lack of hill training? Anyways, who cares, I hit a personal best which I will surely be beating later this year! Third, after all of that, I would like to assure you that I indeed am proud of myself for running this 5k and completing the race. Forth, I’d like to give a shout out to I Hate/Love Running who also ran this run! We’ve never met and I recently started following his run blog and stumbled across his post about running this same race (but the 8km one)! Congrats on your awesome time. Lastly, who runs when they are cold?! I couldn’t feel my toes for the 1.5 km at least. This was the weirdest feeling! Let’s make note to always stay warm before a run starts!

 It may be hard to see, but I’m actually not touching the ground in the photo to the left! This is a photo captured by the event and wants $60 for the actual photo so all I have is a blurry thumbnail to share. I AM IN LOVE WITH THIS PHOTO! I’m almost like the silhouette of the runner in the header of my blog who’s running in thin air over water.  If I didn’t have such a miserable face, I may have considered buying this photo. Also, as you can see, runrchatts was always pushing me and cheering me on: even at the end he pushed me to sprint to the finish line to beat him in the last however many feet. Thanks 🙂

Things I’ve learned from this run:
1. I did not know I was the ugly runner! When we first got to the run, the 8k race was just starting so we cheered all the runners on. We watched and hollered for these athletes running their hearts out as I knew I would need that cheering in an hour. We were picking out the runners who made it look too easy and the ones who just looked like they were dying and struggling. Those runners who looked like they hated their lives (I gave them an extra cheer). Turns out, I’m one of those runners! The pictures posted for the results show me as that struggling, angry runner. It looks like I’m tormenting myself. Who knew?
2. When you’re “racing” in a 5k and in the 2nd last coral, you’re not really racing. You’re racing yourself. So my question, why do people find the need to be jerks? I had a girl in her teens elbow by me at around the 3km mark, rchatts had a couple strollers whizz right by him, and I had a few ladies blocking me in. So, the question is why???? We ended up passing the strollers and the ladies with our steady pace and to top it all off, during each of these occurrences, there was a ton of space around us for passing. Anyways, that’s my little rant for the race etiquettes that some people clearly do not care for.
3. In line with the previous note, I am not running these races to compete with the elites. I am competing against myself. This is a sport to me where the goal is to beat myself and be better than I was the day before. Yes, it’d be great to be amazing and #1, but that’s not my goal and that’s not where I plan on heading. This race solidified that thought and just proved that I do want to keep challenging myself to be a better me, not be better than someone else.
4. I want to run more 5k races!! It’s a good time (not too long) and a good challenge! I think the 10k will be tough for me and I’ll still do the 10 K in May and the 10 K Terry Fox Run in September but I definitely want to do many more 5K races!! Despite having the horrible face while I run, I actually do enjoy running! I can’t wait to finish the Sporting Life 10 K race in May and start signing up for more 5K races. I’ve already been looking a bunch up and might even travel to be able to do some.
5. This was a very well organized run! There was a lot of water, food, great energy and just an awesome place to be for runners, supporters, and volunteers. I had a blast just watching all the 8k runners start and finish! I had a blast completing my run. Thank you to everyone involved for putting this together.

I had a pretty exciting and long weekend. Run Saturday Morning, friend’s dinner Saturday night, and celebratory Blue Jays game Sunday. I surprised rchatts with Jays tickets for all of his help with my running and being a great and supportive friend. There wasn’t much celebrating for the Jays since they lost horribly but it was still fun getting out to my first Jays game of the season! I was so tired yesterday I went to work and barely made it through the day but all in all I had a great weekend!

In other news, I’d like to share some awesome information with regards to my efforts to raise money for Camp Oochigeas. Myself and my running team have been working hard to raise money for this charity (if you’d like a refresher, read more about the charity and my goals from my previous post Running for Fun). So, the Penny has been put to rest in Canada. In respect, I had started a Penny Drive around my office for the month of March. I had also mentioned I would match whatever we raised in the office and donate it to one of the fellow members of our team. We raised $43.27 in the office! I have matched that and donated $50 to one of our other runners. Thank you everyone for chipping in and searching for those lost coins or just emptying out your pockets for a day to support this cause! My personal goal is to raise $250 to send a sick child to camp for a day, I am currently at $243.27!!! Only $7 away. I hope our team can muster up enough support and raise enough money to send a child to camp for a week ($1750). THANK YOU EVERYONE WHO HAS DONATED AND SUPPORTED!!  If you’d like to donate some change, you can do so here (the site is secure and does not charge you any transaction fees). Every little bit helps! 😀

I’m a bit behind on my blog readings and I apologize for this but I will be spending tomorrow night catching up on your blog!

 That’s all for tonight folks! Thank you for reading and supporting!
Good Night,

rundmach

Stepping it Up 10:3

Hey There!

Today I have run my furthest distance yet and I didn’t even eat dinner yet! I’ll be munching on food as I blog, so don’t worry, I’m getting my energy back in!

April 3 Run: 66 min, 5.35 miles (8.61 KM or 8.13 km on Nike+)

This run was back on the treadmill because it feels like -6° C outside right now. I am definitely praying for good weather for this Saturday. The forecasts have changed up and down from Sun, Rain, Snow, Rain, Sleet, Flurries, and now Sun again. Fingers crossed we get sun or snow (no rain). I am hoping to hit a PB (Personal Best) on this race!!

Now to get back to today’s run. I was hungry and wanted to eat first but I really don’t want to be such a bother and run too late with my “loud” treadmill (I even put mats under it now). So, I got home, went out for a walk, then ran on the treadmill… Yes, I understand if I can walk outside for 30 minutes, I probably could have just done the 1 hour run outside.  I feel awesome right now. I haven’t done a third set of anything on this plan and felt great, but after my strategic two-day rest (instead of one), I feel like I destroyed today’s run. The first two intervals of 18 minutes I ran at 5 mph (my standard). The last 18 minutes I ran at 5.4 mph; Why? Because that puts me at a pace of 11.07 minutes per miles or roughly 6.56 minutes per km. Why am I crazy enough to increase my pace by so much? Because this is the pace I need to do Saturday to Hit 5K in 35 minutes.

I know running is about overcoming my own struggles and beating my own records, but after reading yours and other fellow runners’ blogs, I feel I need to really get in the game! I am definitely running charity runs to raise money and awareness. I am still fundraising for Camp Oochigeas and also running To Fight Prostate Cancer at Harry’s Spring Run-Off this Saturday; so don’t forget to support where you can! 🙂

Anyways, back to the run, it was a little bit of a struggle but really, nothing I haven’t faced before and nothing too challenging; it was manageable. You know what this means? It means I CAN run faster.

Oh, I’ve also wanted to bring up something about running.  Today I was talking to two of my teammates running the Sporting Life 10K with me this May. They were telling me about techniques, plans, and such. One thing that came up with Tempo runs. So, I’ve looked a bit into this before and read about your runs and other runners who have different run schedules. Am I doing a Tempo run? Does it count? I thought I’m doing intervals but really what does it matter? Running to me is Tying up my shoes and running my heart out! Whether I run at 5 mph or 20 mph, I am running and to me, that’s all that matters right now. Yes, I would like to get faster and better, but I think that will come with time. I do focus on a pace, a time, and a distance goal, but ultimately, I just want to run and finish a run. Too much analytical and not enough physical!

Go put on your shoes and run!

rundmach

Friday Funday 10:1

Good Day!

It’s a beautiful day outside. Today, is Good Friday and I get the day off work. Couldn’t have been better planned, 5° C outside. Perfect for getting back out for the first outdoor run of the year!

March 29 Run: 66 minutes, 5.22 miles (8.40 km, 9.06 km on Nike+)

I’d like to thank fellow runner and blogger runrchatts for coming out here and running with me today. He obviously kept pace with me but it was great having someone who knew my pace and kept it for those moments I needed to step it up a little bit.

After my last blog things were challenging in life. By things I mean everything and I even had the split moments considering if I should just quit running. I stumbled across this inspirational image/quote to the right and just realized, I’m a runner!
I would also like to thank everyone for the encouragement and support after my last blog. It honestly helps knowing that I’m not quite alone here, you are motivating and helping me stay strong. Thank you thestripedstrawberry, diannegray, I’maRunner?, and Emma D. They all have great blogs you should check out too! Thank you everyone who follows, reads, like, shares, and support. 🙂

So, let’s talk running. Today’s run was my longest distance and longest time. I will be repeating this run two more times before increasing the time again. The run was as follows for 10:1, 5 minute walk, 18 minute run, 1 minute walk, 18 minute run, 1 minute walk, 18 minute run, and 5 minute cool down walk. All in all, I had a better run than last but kept the same pace as if I was on the treadmill (if you work out all the details and math). Pretty sweet!

This is also my PR for 5k this 2013 I think… 37 minutes to complete 5k. It’s not the best time compared to other runners or to my past, but it feels great now! It’s a good steady pace and if I had pushed harder, I could have done it faster. Hello Harry’s 5k next week, be ready to see me at my best!

Tomorrow is going to be another beautiful day out and I’m a little stiff now but I definitely want to get back outside to run some more! I’m glad the neighbours complained; I didn’t run last night on the treadmill because I didn’t want to a nuisance. Instead, I ran outside this morning and I feel wonderful! Hopefully I can get out again for a run, if anything a smaller 30 minute jog or 5 k total. We’ll see what tomorrow has in store.

One more thing I’d like to share. Before running this morning I made a healthy breakfast and watched a very inspirational documentary done by PBS. It is available below. If you have some time this weekend, watch it! 🙂 It’s a good one.

I hope you all have a wonderful Easter weekend.

Cheers,

rundmach

Undefined & Terrified 9:3

Hi World,

Since my last post, I have been in a very odd state. A vast array of emotions have come and gone. I actually ended up throwing up that night instead of going for a walk. Yesterday, I was pretty bummed out: I’ve received noise complaints of the treadmill in my apartment. I’ve had the treadmill for three months and didn’t throw out the box until Tuesday; I received a complaint on the Wednesday… It’s unfortunate but I’ve been living here for almost three years, it’s time to find a new home where I am welcomed.

Today I saw the dentist and had 1.5 hours of work done on the tooth that’s been giving me some issues. Not in the clear yet, I will be back in two weeks. With the stress of this on my body and doing work from home today, I’m not feeling very well. My stomach still feels a bit off and during my run I was light-headed the entire time.

March 26 Run: 61 minutes, 4.77 miles (7.81 km on Nike+)

This was by far the most challenging run I can think of. It’s the same run as the last two… The last two intervals I was hanging onto the treadmill feeling faint and noticing my headache was more prominent. The entire run, I was in a very negative and dark place. I couldn’t get my mind into the good. In the end I finished it but it didn’t feel as good as the last two runs. I’m terrified since the next run to plan will be 18 minute intervals instead of 12… I really don’t know how I will do this.

I have updated the 10k for Pink plan with a comparison of my plan to theirs. Basically, I’ve changed the times to hit match the distance as the plan expects running a 10 minute mile instead of the 12 minute mile I’m pacing at.

To jump back to earlier this morning, I’ve impulsively signed up for a 5k run. I was super stoked when I signed up thinking this will be great to do prior to the 10k coming up. This 5k is raising money for prostate cancer research and is on April 6.

So, my day started out pretty exciting… Then I started reading other blogs to get inspired… Then I started thinking about all the other runners out there and how I am doing… It isn’t getting any easier. I haven’t found my breath. I haven’t lost weight (and trust me, I’ve eaten a lot better as well). I’m slower than I was before. I am dreading running outside again. I’m terrified of this 5k because of the unknown. What is the route like? What about the hills? What about the sketchy weather?

I don’t mean to be really negative, I just find myself in a rut and almost wanting to quit. I’ve even thought about finishing the 10k then quitting. I don’t know how I got here… Earlier in the week I had the positive mindset, thinking maybe after the 10k, it won’t be enough and I’ll maybe do a half marathon one day…

Well… All in all, I’m trying to get myself out of this funk and excited again…
All that matters is finishing and not stopping… This photo sums it all up.

Hopefully there will be a better next blog, I’ll have completed 10:1 and be in a more positive mental space.

rundmach

Not Going to Regret It, 9:2

Hi Readers,

Tomorrow night is ladies night and that means, no run for a Monday. Instead, I went for a nice 5 km walk yesterday and ran today.

March 24 Run: 61 min, 4.77 miles (7.67 km, 8.28 km on Nike+)

Last run I calibrated my Nike+ to the right distance…. Today’s run was the exact same run as the last run but somehow it not only didn’t record the same km as last time, the incorrect 8.28 is 0.10 km more than the last run.  Basically, instead of going down, the distance went up! This is definitely odd but that’s ok, still keeping track of my fitness.

I just finished run 9:2 with my alternate timing to hit the distance goals. Because I am doing this, I had to find another app that would set up each run interval to my desired time (unfortunately, my treadmill isn’t smart enough to do this for me). The last two runs, I’ve tested two different free interval apps, Seconds and IntervalTimer. Both have been ok but neither are as appealing as the 10k for Pink app.

It was pretty tough to get myself onto the treadmill today. Spent the day being lazy and didn’t eat at my regular times. I also didn’t eat as much as I should have. Everything just felt a little off. My head said yes you need to do this, my body said no you’re still sore from the last run… After lollygagging around, taking over an hour to change and get myself on.. eventually I did it. Well I ran and I’m hoping my legs function tomorrow for work and ladies night. I’ve stretched quite a bit and will continue to for the rest of the night,  and maybe even do another little walk to loosen up before bed. My legs are pretty stiff still from the last run and I’m not sure if physically this is getting any better but mentally I’m telling myself it is!

Oh, I also forgot the best part of today’s run, besides doing it and finishing, I ran the last 12 minutes (mile) with a 0.5% incline. This may seem very little but I’m hoping I can build up the incline as my weakest moments so I can fight through those hills. After walking the 5k yesterday (the same route I ran last year), I remembered how difficult the smallest little hill seemed. Even walking it didn’t feel very nice with my stiff calves. Hills, I don’t hate them at all, I just dread seeing them and having to go up them; but, who doesn’t like a challenge?

Part of my lazy day today was spent shopping – but only related to health and running. In the end, I ended up picking up a  few new items for running. I got 3 new sports bras (Stellar Sassafras, I got two pink ones and the back of one is actually cheetah print pink), two running tops, and a pair of capris. All of this was on sale too!!! Everything together (from 3 different shops), less than $100 CAD. Petty awesome! 😀

I hope you all enjoyed your weekend!!

Time to drink up a lot of water and eat some more food, mmm.

rundmach

Friday Night, Date Night 9:1

BOOYAAAHHH!!

March 22 Run: 61 min, 4.77 miles (8.18 km on Nike+, actually 7.67 km)

Hey There!! That’s my longest run to date, both in distance and in duration! How’s that? 5 minutes walk, 12 minute intervals at 5 mph with 1 minute brisk walks in between followed with a 5 minute cool down jog/walk. YEAAAAAHHHHH!!!

As I blog, I am chowing down dinner. Yes, Friday Night is Date night, tonight I had a date and the treadmill is the third wheel. I made a nice healthy dinner for my date to have while I ran. Now I’m munching on dinner and he’s on the treadmill! I couldn’t ask for a better night! I even got my Nike+ Fuelband all set up, so if you’ve got one, add me! I’m already finding it pretty fun and challenging trying to get to my goal before the day ends. We’ll end the night with a walk together to cool down in the freezing cold outside but the crisp night walk will still be my favourite part to do this together.

Okay, back to the running. Tonight I advanced to the 10k for Pink Week 9, Day 1 run. I’ve had to alter the plan a little bit – I’ll be updating the run plan on the other page shortly once I work all the details out. The plan calls for running 10 minute intervals, but after working out the previous few runs, the app wants me to run a 10 minute mile. I’m currently running at 12 minute mile. Since the whole point of the app and this training is to hit a DISTANCE goal of 10 k I’ve decided to adjust my runs to the relative distance the app is assuming I will run. So, the app says walk 5, run 10, walk 1, run 10, walk 1, run 10, walk 1, run 10, walk 5… I’m only going to adjust the running bits as I have been with the past runs. 10 minute mile means I have to add 2 minutes few every 10 the app tells me to run. Not a problem….

By the time I got to 2.5 miles (a little over half my workout), my legs were burning!!! I think I’ll feel this run tomorrow. If not in my legs then definitely in my core. And you know what the best thing is? This is good pain!! I can handle this pain and WANT this kind of pain. Soreness from working is just such a great feeling. Yes, I dread the fact that I might not be able to walk in two days when this run really kicks in but I know it’s working!! 🙂

Yes, tonight’s run was tough, BUT IT WAS WORTH IT!!!  I may not be smiling as I’m focussing on eating and drinking fluids right now but my heart is smiling as big as it can!! 😀

I hope you all had a great Friday night and if not, Carpe Diem!!  GO SEIZE THE DAY!!

Have a wonderful weekend! Can’t wait to blog again!

rundmach

Worth It.

Hi there,

Today is a “rest” day. I really had in my mind that I would move onto the next run on the plan (just felt extra determined today) but I decided against it. My head’s been pounding and I said I wasn’t going to do two 10k for Pink runs consecutively without a rest day in between.

March 21 Run: 26 minutes, 2.02 miles (3.41 km on Nike+)

After going for a half hour walk, I did lose that energy and the pain in my mouth, jaw, and ear flooded me with grief. Sometimes, it’s just frustrating not being able to do anything about the pain. Since my head had started throbbing I really didn’t want to run but a part of me did, so I did. If I didn’t, I’m sure I’d be laying in bed tonight wishing I had. 20 minutes of running with 3 minutes to warm up and cool down definitely was enough. Challenging but not too strenuous. The entire time I could feel my jaw and head throbbing but I just thought, how much worse I would feel if I had just curled up on the couch; the pain would have seemed worse.

Anyways, today I felt inspired and went out to get the Nike+ Fuel Band. Do any of you have this? I have not synced mine up or anything yet, I’ll do that over the weekend. I’m pretty excited as I feel this will just be another tool to keep me motivated and challenged. I’m pretty competitive so if you have one, let me know so we can be buddies on it. What are your reviews? Should I keep it? Not bother? Was it worth the $$$? Also, If you have the Nike+ Running account set up, then add me there too! Find me via rundmach on Nike+ Running. I know I complain about its inaccuracies but it’s still fun being a little competitive and cheering each other on.

Off to drink a bunch of water and try to subdue this pain…

Good Night,

rundmach

A Night Off

Hey Supporters!

Tonight was my night off. My plan, as flexible as it may seem, is running the 10K for Pink program 3 times a week, and never twice in a row. I started the night off after getting home from work by going out for a brisk 20 minute walk…

March 13 Short Run: 13 minutes, 1.11 miles (1.77 km on Nike+)

I couldn’t NOT run tonight. After having a light dinner, I started preparing some fruits for work tomorrow. It wasn’t until 10 past 9 I realized, I HAVE to run. The walk wasn’t enough; Just a short run, enough to get my heart rate up and feel good.

I walked for 1.5 minutes, ran 5.6 mph for 10 minutes, and walked another 1.5 minutes. Yes, I upped my speed! (Don’t worry, I didn’t push myself too hard, just testing what I can really do). Off to go outside and do a proper cool down walk.

Good Night for now!

rundmach

Treading On 8:1

Hi there,

I’m embarrassed to be writing 6 days after my last post… There’s one missing! I have not completed a run since last Wednesday. On the plus side, I made the move to run tonight.

March 12 Run: 43 min, 3.35 miles (5.34 km on Nike+)

5 minute walk, 33 minute run at 5 mph (0 incline), and a 5 minute cool down.

It’s getting warmer here but tonight I chose to run on the treadmill. The weekend was nice, but I chose not to run. I did go for a couple walks but I chose to sit around and be lazy. I did choose to run tonight. I’ve chosen to walk every day, just not run. I have not mentally reached that state yet where I can make time to run, instead I’ve made excuses. I am working on this!

Some days are tougher than others. Mondays have normally been my easiest day to get myself to run and be the fastest I can be. Somehow, yesterday, I broke down instead. It really hit me. I’m not old but I am getting older and my body is slowing down. I’ve consistently put on weight year over year. I’m losing energy, feeling lazy, and lacking enthusiasm to staying in shape. Last night was very hard…

There are only 60 days left to the run! Please remember, I am not only doing this for my health but I am trying to fundraise to send sick children to camp. I’ve been collecting pennies at work and trying to raise money wherever I can. I’ll also be matching the donations I raise in pennies and change at work. If you’re in Canada, you know the penny is being put to rest. If it’s not too much, please, collect your coins, deposit them, and donate to the charity: Donate to Camp Oochigeas. Even if you’re in another country, send over a $1, the charity is secure and takes major credit cards.

I’m not asking for much. Just the acknowledgement of your support. So like my post, follow my blog, donate to the charity, leave an inspiring comment, or do nothing (even your virtual footprint of visiting my page is enough!). Every little bit you do counts and helps push me on.

Thank you everyone for your support!

Sincerely,
rundmach

Challenging at 7:3

Hey Reader,

All day I have been stoked that I’d be running tonight. After the last run, I couldn’t be more excited to defeat today’s run. Made a nice dinner after work, a small piece of baked chicken on some salad, mmm.

March 6 Run: 40 minutes, 3.11 miles (5.14 km on Nike+)

What a challenging run tonight! Although the run was tough, my legs felt stiff from Monday, my stomach was tight and sore, but I’m super glad I ran! I finished the run. I did all 2.5 miles on 5 mph straight. Wohoo!!

Only 2 more runs and then it’s a 5k!!!

Pushing Hard at 7:1

Hi there,

Thanks for stopping by! I’d like to take a quick minute to let you know, I’m grateful for your “likes” and comments, and even just visiting my blog. The fact that you came here to read this post means a lot to me. It is what fuels me to keep going and gives me a reason why I cannot stop. I am ultimately running for charity and to improve my health, but I couldn’t do it without your support. Without being accountable to the viewers and followers of this blog, I wouldn’t be able to keep pushing myself sometimes.

~Thank You~

February 27 Run: 40 minutes, 3.1 miles (5.13 km Nike +)

Tonight’s run was great! Extremely CHALLENGING!! I could barely make it to the 1st full mile running but somehow I just pulled through and did the 2.5 miles straight in 30 minutes! Wohoo! It was definitely hard. Near the end of the run, before the cool down, I could feel my entire stomach tightening up and telling me to stop but I kept going. 5 mph with 0 incline.

The worst thing right now is that my knee kills me OFF of the treadmill. It hasn’t gotten any better for the last few weeks when I get up to walk. I am still stretching and walking every day but my knee still gives out when I stand after sitting for a while. Not sure what to do here, my doctor’s in another city… it’s such a dull pinching pain, but it’s not life threatening…

The best thing right now is that I completed 5 km today with 10 minutes of walking. You know what that means? I can get to 5 km running in probably 35 minutes!! Can’t wait to get there in 5 more runs (according to the 10k for Pink plan)!!!! The plan does want me to run 5 k in 30 minutes but I am set on finishing the 10k in May, not setting a record, haha.
I’m also super excited because run 7:2 and 7:3 are the same as today. This means I get more time to practice and run better at this pace.

Anyways, times to fuel up and rest up.

Good night,

rundmach

Introduction to 6:3

Good Evening Readers,

Mondays always seem to be a tough day but I always find myself wanting to run more on a Monday night. It was 9 PM when I got on the treadmill. Must be the love of running I have to work all day and fight off the bag of chips I was going to eat for dinner; instead I got up and ran.

I just finished running 6:3 of the running plan on my iPad’s 10K for Pink. The reason I’m bringing this in is because my iPad’s 6:3 is actually different from my iPod’s 6:3 (but it’s the same app!). A little confused at this difference since my iPad said to run 2 miles straight while my iPod said to run 2.25 miles. I didn’t realize there was a difference; I ran 2 miles straight thinking I was doing the distance (over the time).

February 25 Run: 34 minutes, 2.59 miles (4.44 km on Nike+)

I am super stoked I ran for 24 minutes straight (2 miles) at 5 mph (0 incline).  I’m 1/3 of the way to my goal!!! The app initially said to run 2 miles in 20 minutes, on my other device it says to run 2.25 miles in 22 minutes. So, I’ve gone for the distance but am a bit let down because I definitely could have done the 2.25 miles! What a shame for not knowing. It is great joy knowing that I feel the confidence that I can do the 2.25 miles. The next run (7:1) is doing 2.5 miles straight in 25 minutes. I won’t be doing this in 25 minutes, I’m estimating 30 minutes.

6 runs away from 5 km! Averaging around 7 minutes / km means I can do this in 35 minutes on the treadmill! I’m excited!!! This also means that once I transfer this outdoors, I can do 5k faster than that! So stoked to get there!!! Can’t wait to see where I’ll be in 2.5 months at 10k!

Until next run,

rundmach

Reenergize at 6:2

Hey World,

Another week has come and gone. I’ve let myself slip off of running yet again for 7 days! How is this possible? Sometimes I really just need to be reminded of how much I love running! Every day this past week I’ve procrastinated and made excuses. I’m even on vacation this week doing nothing! There are people busier than me out there making time to run. Every night I’ve gone to bed regretting I didn’t get up to run. Today I woke up and ran! No more regrets. Who can live a life full of wishful thinking? It’s the actions that count.

Of course, once I got on the treadmill, the joy of running all came rushing back!! This came all too quickly and was such a sweet, wonderful feeling.

February 21 Run: 37 minutes, 2.79 miles (4.73 km on Nike+)

Today’s run was not hard at all and yet I ran a little faster than any other time I’ve been sticking to the 10k plan. Maybe last week’s run with the group (at a faster pace and outside) really did do more than just a run. I stuck to the distance today. Running plan for Week 6 day 2 says Workout for 33 minutes (5 minute warm up, 1 mile/10 min run, walk 3 min/0.25 mile, 1 mile/10 min run, 5 minute cool down). Since the last few runs have been short, I did the distance in running which took me 12 minutes to run a mile (5 mph). I don’t mind that it took me longer. I almost wanted to keep going after the first 12 minute and not stop to walk 3 minutes. Quickly, I realized I should take the walk so I can run the next 12 minutes, good idea!

This just makes my heart melt! ❤

Tomorrow I spend the day at Blue Mountain snowboarding, wohoo!!! This is not my favourite place to go especially on a Friday of reading week (spring break in Canada) but I’m still excited to ride!!! I truly love to snowboard. I’m just a beginner but just like Running, I don’t need to be a superstar to love it! It’s going to be awesome!!!!

On the other positive note, I’ve been going for a walk every day this year. I’ve also been making sure I do more lately since my knee is still messed up and hurts in a slight discomforting pinching kind of way… No help… Walking is still good exercise!! 🙂

I’m excited to run outside again and I hope this -18°C weather goes away soon! It’s almost too cold to walk outside with the windchill, let alone think about running! Kudos to all those runners I keep seeing in the area when I’m out for a walk and you’re embracing the cold running like a mad man/woman.

Thank you for reading!

rundmach

Baby Steps, 6:1

Hi There,

It’s been 10 days since my last run, today, I ran! … It was really a jog but it still counts!

February 11 Run/Jog: 34 minutes, 2.26 miles (3.79km on Nike+)

My knee is still not recovered but I couldn’t take it anymore! I needed to run! So tonight, I got changed (9:30 pm), stretched out my legs extra longer than usual, walked at 3-3.5 mph and ran each interval at 4.5 mph. This is the slowest I’ve ever “ran” since starting this plan but it was nice. It was easy but still very painful on my knee; I ran with a limp and wasn’t trying to. I am taking it a bit easy and not push myself too hard. Slow and steady…

I know I may not be running at the speed I need to be to stay on plan BUT I am still running. As long as I keep running, I know I will get to the finish line!

Taking it slower was great. Tonight I got the chance to practice breathing. This is how you know I’m a beginner runner still, I don’t breathe properly. My friend Robert has always told me to learn to breathe and running will be much easier. He’s able to run forever at an easy pace because of his breathing. I don’t breathe well for the fact that I’m a chest breather and runners are recommended to breathe through their bellies. It still hasn’t clicked in my mind to just naturally breathe through my stomach; I’ve been practicing my breathing even off of the treadmill.

I hope that the next run is better on my knee and I can go a little bit faster. Until then…

Good night for now 🙂

rundmach

p.s. I forgot to talk about how my snowboarding went the other night. I love snowboarding! It was amazing and it was just puking snow outside! I didn’t hurt myself EXCEPT for being on the chairlift… somehow, I got smoked at the chairlift getting on. I wish it was recorded, it looked like something that would have been on the funniest home videos. It wasn’t funny at the time when I fell and smashed my head on the ground but after I opened my eyes and was thankful I wore a helmet, it was funny. I hurt my neck in that fall from a bit of whip lash (I’m guessing from my head being thrown up off the ground after the impact). So, I hope this let’s you know a bit more about me, Snowboarding is the other love of my life and although it has been a while, the love never dies. This should also give you a better understanding that I am pretty accident prone (trampoline injury, snowboarding injury)… I’m pretty clumsy sometimes… most of the time!

Doing the Time, 5:3

Good Afternoon (or Morning, or Evening wherever you are :)),

This picture made me laugh so hard and it’s kind of true. I hope you enjoy it too! 🙂

It’s Friday and I didn’t have to work today! It’s been a bit overwhelming at work so I decided to use up some vacation time and make this week short. I’ve scheduled quite a few other days off for the month of February. Can you believe it?! It’s February 1st already! Where did January* go? I guess it just ran past me! ha-ha…

This morning I didn’t sleep in too much. Woke up maybe an hour later than I normally would for work. Had a bit of breakfast and went for a walk in the -16°C weather but it was nice and sunny. It felt great being outside during daylight! With the crazy Canadian weather, most days, I get to work and it’s light out but there’s no sun and by the time I leave work, it’s dark out.

My last run definitely was a challenge because today my legs are a little sore.

I had a lot of plans for today and didn’t get through them all but I did get to run!

February 1 Run: 30 minutes, 2.39 miles (3.6km on Nike+)

Today I kind of followed plan. I did the run time but I didn’t do the distance… On the app, the time went 5 minute warm up, 20 minute run, 5 minute cool down. Instead of doing the 2.25 miles in the 20 minutes, I did 1.76 miles. At first I went into this run thinking I would do the distance regardless of the time but once the app changed and said to start walking, I noticed I had another 1/2 mile to go, so I listened to my aching body and walked.

The slightly troublesome part is that I didn’t run on an incline today and ran at 5.3 mph, hoping this “easier” pace would have gotten me to run the extra ~5 minutes I needed to get to the 2.25 goal.

I want to repeat this interval until I can run 2.25 miles straight before going further. This sets me a little behind because I won’t be running tomorrow (going to be playing trampoline dodgeball!). I’ll be creeping into next week’s plan as I repeat week 5.

I’ve decided even though I want to do the 2.25 mile straight before moving on, I will just stick to the plan (unless somehow I find time to run Sunday).
Week 6, day 1 and 2 seem a bit easier with walking intervals. At Week 6, day 3, I will be running 2.25 miles straight. This time when I get to this day, I will do the distance and not the time! 🙂

I’m excited for the weekend: Trampoline dodgeball Saturday, all you can eat birthday buffet lunch Sunday, and a big family dinner Sunday night! Sunday will definitely be a write off day but I’m excited to see this side of my family (we see each other about once or twice a year) and rest!

Thanks for stopping by, I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

rundmach

Confused at 5:2

Hi there,

Tonight I repeated the last run plan hoping I could get a bit more comfortable running it a little faster. Somehow, the numbers just don’t make sense to me anymore. Either I am just a sucky runner or Nike+ and my Treadmill are from two different universes.

January 30 Run: 31 minutes, 2.34 miles (3.6 km on Nike+)

Last year, I had come to the conclusion that Nike+ was wrong no matter what I did. I thought this may have just been because I was running outside. Tonight, I ran the same as I did the last run, BUT increased my speed from 5.3 mph to 5.4 mph for both of the 8 minute running intervals. Somehow, on Nike+ my average speed went from 8’14″/km down to 8’36″/km today. Treadmill says I ran the same distance of 2.34 miles both times while Nike+ says I did 3.61km today and 3.76 km last run. Well, I am puzzled but all that matters is I got on that treadmill and ran. Hopefully it was enough that I can advance to the next run (5:3), which is a little scary…

Maybe I was running at a slower pace, the second 8 minute interval felt like death! Maybe I didn’t let my dinner digest enough before running. Maybe I just can’t be running at 5.4 mph. Maybe I just need a heart rate monitor. Maybe I am just not trying hard enough. Maybe I’m over thinking this. Maybe I’m concentrating on the numbers too much. Maybe I just need to stop thinking. Maybe, maybe, maybe. So many possibilities but one thing is true, I finished the run. All I need to do is just RUN.

rundmach

A Little Short, 5:2

Hi,

Tonight I ran late, I didn’t get on the treadmill until almost 10:30 PM. It took a lot of time to get mentally prepared and some more time to talk myself out of bed… Running is running, doesn’t matter what time I train, as long as I get up on that treadmill.

January 28 Run: 31 minutes, 2.34 miles (3.7 km on Nike +)
Started walking at 3.5-3.7 and ran at 5.3 mph (0.5% incline).

My treadmill is a bit of a miss on my part. I really should have researched more and been less impulsive with it, but it couldn’t have been that bad, I’ve been running the whole time since I got it. Anyways, I can only set the treadmill to a TIME goal over a distance goal. Why is this a problem? Because I tried to run 3/4 of a mile in 8 minutes but in 8 minutes I only got to 0.70 miles. I definitely was NOT walking a 10 minute mile either (1/2 mile in 5 minutes). I walked about 1/3 of a mile for each 5 minute walk. So, I ran a bit less than I should have according to plan but that’s ok. I have more than enough time this week to repeat this workout before moving on (and no, I don’t plan on increasing my brisk walking speed, not sure how I can do that without stumbling over my own feet).

I’m always open to new suggestions, methods, strategies, and opinions. I got some pretty good advice from a few other bloggers who have some pretty sweet blogs you should check out as well. Thanks Jamie and tchatt for leaving some food for thought!

I’m sad… the last part of my blog got cut off when I went to publish…. Here’s the gist of what else I had written…

This blog was started to share my running journey with you. Running has become such a huge part of my life, or so I’d like it to be. I feel it is time for you to get to know me a bit more. There’s so much I wish I could share with you but I would just ramble on like a school girl who just got her first kiss. For now it’s time to get hydrated and some rest. I hope that by next run/blog I am able to break down some barriers and knock down those walls that keep my so guarded.  (All of this seemed to sound so much better the first time I wrote it.. :()

Good night,

rundmach

Moving On, 5:1

I’m not a calorie counter but this is how I feel right now.

This morning had been a very emotional one for me. It started off nice as I woke up with a smile on my face. All night, I dreamt about running and was excited to get on the treadmill when I woke up.
It’s Sunday, that means weigh in day for me. It’s been 3 weeks now and I haven’t lost a single pound. Instead of being disappointed and sad, I was more angry and frustrated over this result. It’s not as if I’m eating horrible foods but I’m not cutting them out. I refuse to. I know I can lose weight and keep eating whatever I want, whether it’s chips or carrots. I like healthy and junky foods. I believe I have a decent balance of both. So why am I not losing any weight? It’s past the point where I’m feeling down about it, I’m just simply angry with this situation.Today, I’ve moved on to the next week a day in advance. Week 5, Day 1. I stepped up and ran each running interval at 5.3 mph. This run included three 5 minute runs and walking in between.

January 27 Run: 31 minutes, 2.25 miles (3.5 km)

By the last run of this week, I should be able to run the entire 2.25 miles (3.6 km) straight. It seems out of reach right now but we’ll see what happens during the week. I will move onto 5:2 for the next run but I plan on repeating that workout a couple of times this week before doing the final run for this week and attempting the 2.25 miles straight.

I’m reading everyone’s blogs and they are definitely inspirational and motivational. I like seeing how determined you all are out there. Thank you all for putting up your blogs and sharing your stories with everyone. I’m struggling to find my inspiration to running for myself but I hope to find it soon.

rundmach

Repeat 4:3

Hi there,

Sorry for the short post yesterday. I was puzzled and left without words. Yesterday’s run was filled with a thousand thoughts but at the same time, nothingness.

Today, I’ve ran again but I decided to repeat yesterday’s run. I’ve done the math backwards and I’m not running near the speed I need to, to get to the target goals.

January 25 Run: 32 minutes, 2.26 miles (3.6 km)

Running pace at 5 mph on a 0.05% incline, walking at 3.5, I covered just a little bit more distance today. However, at 5 mph I still won’t be able to reach my average run time last year and goal time for this coming run in May. I may repeat this interval again until I can do it comfortably at 5.5 or even 6 mph!

If I follow the plan, in 3 runs from now, I should be running 2.25 miles in 22 minutes. Right now I’m running 0.4 miles in 5 minutes, 5 mph. I should be running at around 6.1 mph to plan. I believe I can get there; I don’t see this as pushing myself too hard, just getting myself back on track. No more taking it easy and running 4.7. I know what I’m capable of and I can run faster than that. Not sure if I do 6.1 mph by the race but I sure as hell will try my hardest!

Sorry if it seems like I’m focussing on numbers too much but I work with them all day and numbers just make sense to me….most of the time.

Here’s to running faster and trying harder on the next run!

rundmach

Running 4:3

Not sure what to write tonight…

I ran.

January 24 Run: 32 minutes, 2.21 miles (3.4 km)

Ran at 4.8 mph at a 0.5% incline and walked between 3.5-3.7 mph with cramps, a headache, and feeling super bloated.

Yesterday, I posted up my 10k plan I have taken from Exercise for Pink. Check it out if you haven’t already. 10k for Pink.

Until next run, good night.

DMach

Running 4:2

Hi!

Tonight’s run is week 4 day 2 of the 10k program I am following and hoping it works out. Day one was easy but tonight was tougher. I felt great so thought I could run. I did finish the run just slightly slower than yesterday on my Nike+ .

The program calls for only 3 runs a week but I have a problem; I have a love hate relationship with running. I do love running and feel 3 times a week just isn’t enough! I hate running because I’m just super lazy sometimes and it is tough for me right now but I’m sure that will go away soon enough. Since it was a challenging run tonight, I may take tomorrow off. If I feel I need to run tomorrow night and feel I can, then I am doing it! I will listen to my body and see what happens.

January 22 Run: 32 minutes, 2.16 miles (3.4 km on Nike+)

Same intervals as yesterday’s run. I did the same 0.5 incline and ran at 4.7 mph but may have walked a little slower today on the breaks at around 3.3-3.5 mph while yesterday I did 3.5-4 mph.

Overall, I’m happy with the running. Makes me feel I earned that extra slice of pizza I’m going to have tomorrow at work, involuntary Pizza Lunch, haha! Don’t worry, I’m not complaining, I’m pretty excited! Feels like it’s been a while since I’ve had pizza.

Time to drool over pizza and fall asleep!

Thanks for reading 🙂

Diana

New Week

Hi Everyone,

I have a lot to say tonight but I’ll start off with tonight’s run info:

January 21 Run: 32 minutes, 2.16 miles (3.5 km)

This week I begin training with the 10k for Pink program. This is a 14 week program but I’ve chosen to start at Week 4 feeling the first 4 weeks may have been a bit too slow pace for me. The program says you can start anywhere if you’ve ran before and even encourages starting at week 8 for those who have ran 5k. I haven’t ran 5 k in a while at once, so I thought I’d start halfway to that.

The program was pretty easy today: 5 minute warm up, 3 minute run, 90 second walk, 5 minute run, 2.5 minute walk, 3 minute run, 90 second walk, 5 minute run, and 5 minute cool down. I’m actually not tired at all and feel I can do more. The program is suggesting to run 3 times a week. Since I’d like to run more, I might alter the program by doing work out #2 of each week twice, or turning my weeks into 5 day weeks (run one, rest one, run one, rest one, etc.), or run 3 times a week with Saturday and Sunday being rest days as well… The plan itself doesn’t specify when to take the days off but just to do 3 runs in one week. I’m not sure what’s best but I know sticking to this running plan is a good idea. I’ll have to do some more reading and research.

After my last post, my brother, the physiotherapist, suggested that I maintain my training with a good program changing only either time or speed but never both at once. Although by the the second running interval, I wanted to up my speed because I knew I could run faster, I caught myself and quickly lowered the speed before it really started. I couldn’t up the speed or time because I had ran on an incline today. I normally run at 0 but I did a slight 0.5 incline to hopefully help build stamina. My friend, Robert, reminded me that even on a downhill run, when we get to flat patches, that will feel very different, and even suggested running hills to train. I need to get my body comfortable running at different elevations so I started with a small incline.

I’m really thankful for all my followers and friends on here looking out for me. THANK YOU! ❤

I was planning on running Sunday but I ended up spending a later day with my family and got home a little too late, or so I thought. I couldn’t sleep last night! All I kept doing was waking up wishing I had ran, feeling like I wasn’t all that tired because I didn’t use all of my energy to run. It wasn’t like I was going to get on the treadmill at 2 am; my surrounding neighbours in the apartment wouldn’t feel too great if I did. I don’t mind that I didn’t run, I had a great time playing cards with my family. I have all week to run. 🙂

Like I said, this is going to be a long one…

Over the weekend, I went shoe shopping for runners! It was a pretty successful weekend. The people at the Running Room are amazing and helped me out as they always have. I even scored a sweet 20% off from the Running Room magazine; this helps since this place is pretty pricey for me! I ended up trying a couple pairs on hoping to try a new running shoe/brand. In the end, I got my same runners in a newer version, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 13. My old ones are the 10s… I’m really excited about them! Today’s run in them was the first wear and everything felt pretty good. A little stiff in the left foot but that may have just been the lacing. These shoes just felt the best on my foot compared to all the other ones. It’s tough for me finding regular shoes let alone a good pair of running shoes. Go Brooks!


Scored a few other sweet items over the weekend.

Anyways, I think I have covered everything I wanted to post tonight.
Thanks for reading my long post! Just had a lot to say.

I hope you have yourself a wonderful night/day!

Sincerely,
Diana

Painful

Happy Friday!

Today for my one treat item, I indulged in a doughnut and everyone made me feel so fat and guilty for it, I didn’t even get to really enjoy it… Everyday I allow myself one thing that’s not the best but is the reason I am able to hold down cravings; whether it is a small bag of chips or a piece of chocolate, I choose to have one small snack in the middle of the day on days where it’s tough to fight my urges. This really helps fight my cravings as I can have a big bag of chips all to myself or a whole box of candy bars in one sitting.

At work today, a friend helped me realize how my desk was not set up the best since she was talking about hers. With all this running and back pain, I tried to move my monitors around and lift my chair to be a bit more ergonomically correct. It helped my neck and back out a bit actually. Still not perfect but an improvement from looking downwards at my monitors.

After work, I got home and sat around to relax while my treadmill was staring right back at me. Guess I had to run and earn that doughnut…

January 18 Run: 30 minutes, 2.21 miles (3.5 km)

Although tonight was a short run, I walked 2 minutes, ran 23 minutes, and walked 5 minutes. I ran at 4.7mph on the treadmill and that was tough! I know it’s slow but it will get better. Today’s was challenging and I am proud of myself for getting to 23 minutes! I made checkpoints where I fooled myself saying I would stop to walk at 10 minutes, then 15, then 20, and in the end I finished 23 straight before settling down to walk. This was also a tough run because this is the first time ever my knees hurt. The insides of my knees, my lower back, and neck hurt as I ran… This is in addition to my rolls jiggling and flubber cramping up everywhere… The one factor I can think of besides needing to stretch more or getting my posture right at work, is the fact that I may need new shoes.

New shoes!! I think I’ll go shoe shopping tomorrow! I can’t really afford it but my current runners have last me quite a while. Trained in them all last year, went to mount doom and back in middle earth with them, and ran my first 5k in them. Hopefully new shoes will help solve my problems in my feet, knees, neck, and back. Sounds like I’m looking for miracle shoes.

What do you like to run in?

D Mach

It’s About Timing

Hello World!!

Tonight marks a breakthrough in treadmill running for me. Lately, I’ve been struggling with slowing the treadmill down whenever I felt like I couldn’t go on or felt a pain. The treadmill I got only does preset workouts built-in or a manual time and one speed (in which you change the speeds manually as you run). I choose the manual one, but what I really want to do is be able to create my program to set it to specific miles per hour for specific lengths of time… So this is how I end up running 8 minutes walking 1 or 2… running 5 minutes walking 1 or 2… and so on..

I overcame that problem a bit tonight by telling myself, that it is OKAY to run/jog below 5 miles per hour… for whatever reason, since I’ve started running on the treadmill, it’s been 6, 5.5, or 5 mph and walking at 3.5 or 4 mph.

January 17 Run/Jog: 45 minutes, 3.32 miles (5.3 km…5.6 km on Nike +)

2 minute walk, 20 minute jog/run at 4.7-5 mph, 2 minute walk, 8 minute run, 1 minute walk, 6 minute run, 1 minute walk, 2 minute’s emptying the tank – 5.5 km up to 6 km, 1 minute walk, 1 minute jog (4.7 km), and 2 minute cool down walk.

I had to add-on 5 minutes in another session on the treadmill because it doesn’t let you add time to a workout in process… a little silly… Seriously, if anyone owns a Livestrong treadmill, please help me out!

The entire run, I was feeling pain in spots that didn’t even exist before, flubber bouncing around, rolls cramping up, … etc.. By 33 minutes, my ankle was hurting in a way it’s never hurt before. I kept telling myself that I said I’d run another 3 minutes before I could stop, but it hurt so bad… I kept telling myself, I can do this, and the pain past… But about 10 seconds later my opposite foot was hurting in the arch and in my toes! I’m not saying all of this complaining but just explaining how much it did hurt to run but I just pushed through the pain today. Today was about getting to the time and if it meant running a little slower, under 5 mph, then that’s what I had to do to run for a longer period of time; 20 minutes straight, 45 minutes total! 🙂

Today I had to force myself to think positively; to think that “I’ve done this before, I can do this now, I want this for me, I want this for my future”. I thought about how I want to feel healthy and sexy again. I want to be comfortable laying on my couch without feeling rolls getting in the way when I’m trying to curl up…

~JUST THINK HAPPY THOUGHTS~

I am very excited that I did 45 minutes of exercise today!! Nike+ says I ran at an average pace of 8 minutes and 9 seconds per km while my first 5 km’s were all below 7’44″/km. That’s really exciting! It’s the last 0.6 km that I had walked to slow down that slowed down my average pace.

This means all I have to do is double my current run time and I can do the 10 km! I have not set any time goals as many others do for races… Currently, I would just like to finish the race and get to that 10 km mark.

Off to the finish line!!… in another 114 days… 16 weeks to go! …

Please don’t forgot to donate to the children I am also running for. I know I may be running for my health but I’m also fundraising for sick children with cancer to go to summer camps!!! Please donate here, or read more about my journey for this charity and the charity here.

Thank you for taking your time to read my blog!

Cheers,

run.d.mach

Running, Running, Running

Good Evening Readers,

Tonight was such a rough night. I came home starving and wasn’t in the right mind. Wanted to make some salmon and get some energy to do a run.. turns out the salmon went bad so I ended up spending more time to make some fresh spring rolls… They were delicious but took a while to digest and settle in before I could even think about running. I was tired and freezing in my apartment and just couldn’t get myself together… in the end, the battle was over, I changed and got on that treadmill.

January 15 Run: 40 minutes 3.09 miles (4.9km)

So close to hitting 5 km today! Arg!! Maybe tomorrow! I stopped a bit more than I had expected: 2 minute walk, 8 minutes run, 1 minute walk, 8 minute run, 2 minute walk, 5 minute run, 1 minute walk, 5 minute run, 2 minute walk, 1.5 minute run, 1 minute walk, 1.5 minute run, and 2 minute walk. That last little bit I was aiming to run 6 minutes but ended up walking much more and slowing down way too much. I had been running 5 KM in around 35 minutes last summer so I’m hoping I can get back to that really soon! Today was still slow though: Nike+ says I averaged 8 minutes and 12 seconds per km…. I believe it was still a successful run!

A little sad that my frined Robert has ran again and is now almost 6 km ahead of me. Goooo rchatts for running!!! I don’t think I’ll be able to catch up to him; it’s a good thing we’re running for the same team! 🙂

I want to thank a fellow blogger/bloggers I’ve been following for really inspiring me to run tonight. This is a group called youcantbeatthiscrew. Two days ago, this group posted a story about a guy who sits at a desk all day, check out the post: If this doesn’t motivate you…nothing will. Very inspirational, and just absolutely phenomenal!

It really comes down to just running… There’s so much on my mind all the time but really, what’s there to worry about? It’s just life. If I’m not healthy, I won’t be able to enjoy life so I better just keep running and get my butt back in shape.

This is what I keep telling myself:

For now I cool down, get some fluids in and get to bed!

Good night world,

rundmach

Polar Ice

Hi World!

Tonight marks a new week. I know I was a bit down last week and I still am a little held back in my head with how heavy I am getting but I did get up and get on the treadmill today. Despite having all you can eat yesterday, two doughnuts & a muffin today, I changed after work and got on that treadmill.

January 14 Run: 40 minutes, 3.03 miles (4.8km)

Today consisted of a 2 minute warm up, 8 minute run, 1 minute walk, 8 minute run, 1 minute walk, 4 minute run, 1 minute walk, 5 minute run, 2 minute walk, 6 minute run, and 2 minute cool down walk. I am a bit disappointed that I ran for 40 minutes, just as I did last run and didn’t gain too much extra distance today. I felt a lot better during today’s run, I really thought I had covered more distance. Unfortunately, I also forgot to turn on my Nike + to track my KMs for the first half of the run. Now runrchatts is still 1.91 km ahead of me according to Nike+… On the plus side, the 23 mintues I did capture on Nike+ put my average kilometer at 7 minutes and 57 seconds! I’m pretty sure my 20 minutes missed in running was 2 km! Especially since my first leg of my run is always my fastest… SHUCKS!… Regardless, the treadmill says I ran 3 miles so, I’ll take it for breaking that 3 mile mark! 🙂

I also tried something new today: I ran without chewing gum. Now this might sound odd to a lot of you as I’ve been told it’s weird; but, I can’t run/work out without gum! Specifically, my Excel Polar Ice. I’ve done this for as long as I can remember: as a kid I even chewed gum playing basketball, volleyball, soccer, etc. I’m not a huge gum fan when I’m not working out so maybe it’s just an ingrown habit? Anyways, I thought I’d give it a shot and just run and drink more water (I don’t really drink water when I run, I’ve also been told that’s not such a good idea). I drank about 3/4 of a bottle during my walks but it was definitely hard on my throat running without the gum today. I’ve gone running for 5 kilometers without water… I think I’ll have to go back to my old habits on this one.

I’d like to say a special THANK YOU to everyone who has been following my blog and checking up on me. Your “follows”, “likes”, comments, and visits do really help motivate me to keep running and not stop. I appreciate every click and every moment you spend reading my words and following my story. Thank you! 🙂

For now, it is time to get some more liquid in and a little snack before it’s time for bed.

Good night!!

Diana Mach

Pathetic

Today, I was feeling better, health wise. Today, I felt I could run more. Today, I thought I could be stronger… Now, I feel I have failed myself… I can’t get out of my head… I can’t get positive… I just keep seeing more pounds on the scale…

January 12 Attempt: 40 minutes, 2.91 miles (4.4km)

Started off ok today, 3 minute walk warm up, 10 minute run, 1 minute walk, 4 minute run…. then a series of walking, running, walking… There were too many beeps; I kept changing the program… I couldn’t even keep track of what I was doing other than letting myself and you down.

Honestly, I feel pathetic. I couldn’t even get to 3 miles in 40 minutes…

According to Nike I’m averaging almost 9 minutes a km. Thats 3 minutes more than what I was running at last year…

I don’t want to give up the junky foods I like eating but I can’t get my head in a positive space to keep running on that treadmill….

We’ll see what happens next run…

dmach

P.s. this is how I feel

Feeling Heavy

Hi there,

Today I’ve been feeling pretty unattractive… Feeling extra heavy… Feeling Super Chunky… Didn’t help myself by having a cheeseburger at lunch… Came home and weighed myself, 2 extra pounds!! Geez. Feeling pretty bummed out tonight… Anyways, I got changed and went on the treadmill.

January 10 Run: 35 minutes, 2.56 miles (4km)

The run started with a 4 minute warm up, ran for 10 minutes, took a 1 minute walk break, ran 4 minutes, 1 minute walk, 4 minute run, 1.5 minute walk, 6 minute run, and a 3.5 minute cool down walk.

That’s all for tonight folks…

Diana Mach

Interval Training

Good Evening Readers,

Before I get into running, I’d like to send out a special THANK YOU!! Three very amazing people have already donated to Camp Ooch in support of my 10k run! THANK YOU!
This year, I won’t be mentioning any names because God knows you’re wonderful people, and I’d like to keep those anonymous just the way they wanted to be seen. Regardless, you know who you are and I couldn’t be more blessed knowing such great individuals.

I’d also like to take this time to refer you over to my dear friend Robert. I have inspired him to join our Make Dreams Happen team in fundraising for Camp Ooch and join me in the 10k run. Please follow his story at Robert’s Blog. A few things here, Robert is the one who shed light on this run and introduced me to the charity. After researching a bit more, I couldn’t back out and recruited him to join in. We may have also recruited our VP of our company to run as well, but that’s yet to be finalized…

Make Dreams Happen is a common slogan at work, not only a motto in our workplace but it is a way of life. In our careers we strive to continue to Make Dreams Happen every day, there is no other name more appropriate for this team.

Today I’m feeling a bit better. Still coughing here and there with a raspy voice and sore throat. Nonetheless, I went to work, had a productive day, came home, sat on the couch….and sat some more… What a waste…

January 9 Interval Training: 30 minutes, 2.13 miles (3.4km)

Last year when I started running, I read all about interval training as a running plan. I couldn’t stick to any of them; I liked just getting outside and running until I couldn’t run anymore. Today, I started with a 3 minute warm up and ran 4 minutes, realized my chest and throat were killing me, walked 1 minute, ran 3 minutes, walked 1 minute, ran 3 minutes, walked 1 minute, ran 3 minutes, walked 1 minute, ran 3 minutes, walked 1 minute, ran 4 minutes, and walked 2 minutes.

It worked pretty well in helping me focus on trying to regulate my breathing and get some water in.
This will surely be a challenge to work myself up to even running 5k straight but I know it will happen… It has to!

10k, I’m coming for you!

In the meantime, please don’t forgot to support and donate here.

Thank you for reading!

Until the next run, have yourself a phenomenal night.

rundmach

Running for Fun

Hi World,

This is my Running for a Cause – Part II – Running for Fun

Did you ever go to camp as a kid? Do your kids go to camp now? Or do you just like the idea camp?

My mom didn’t have the money to send me to camp as a child… So when I was 16, I got my first part time job. I saved some of the money I earned so I could go to Muskoka Woods for a leadership camp with my school. It was awesome!

I can imagine how tough it must be to not be able to afford camp… I can’t imagine how much tougher it must be to be so ill that camp seems out of question.

Please take a moment in your day to watch this video about Camp Oochigeas before you read on:

Camp Ooch, a place where sick children get to be children and not worry about being sick; A place where parents know their kids are in good hands and are having the time of their lives. Camp Ooch also goes to the children at SickKids hospital to provide in house camps as well.

Last year, thanks to you, I raised $505 to help find a cure for breast cancer and ran 5k. I thank you all for supporting me. I also promised I would raise money to do the 10k Terry Fox Run in September this year.

This year, I am being very ambitious… I have not been running for a while and let myself go… But… I will be running a 10k race on May 12, 2013 to raise money for kids to go to camp Ooch.

I encourage anyone who is interested to join me in this experience as I’m looking to create a team. Please, reach out to me if you’re even playing with the idea of joining or donate to support by clicking here.

We have four months, about 18 weeks, to train and raise money. I am hoping we can raise enough money to send a child to camp for one week, that’s a $1750 goal.

More About Camp Oochigeas

Camp Oochigeas is a privately funded, volunteer based organization that provides kids with cancer and kids affected by childhood cancer with a unique opportunity for growth through challenging, fun, enriching and magical experiences. Ooch allows kids with cancer to just be kids.

Camp Ooch does not receive government funding, and relies on the generosity of volunteers and donors like you, in order to make the magic of camp happen!

To find out more about the camp, visit www.ooch.org.

Whether you donate $1 or join me for the race, I will forever be grateful of your support. Thank you.

Sincerely,

Diana Mach

It’s Been a While

Happy New Year!

2013 brings a new life!

I apologize for not blogging since my run in September. Unfortunately, I only ran once last year since the 5k and it was brutal! I promise I will not stray from my goals though.

I hit a bit of a running rut last year after the run. I got sidetracked and was distracted with some pretty good things in life, but I did gain another 10 pounds in 3 months. I’m sick of complaining about it being too cold, too dark, and just feeling unhealthy.

My goal this year is to lose 21 pounds and keep it off!

Yesterday marks a new milestone. I purchased a treadmill and now have no excuses not to run! Set up and ran my first time this morning!

Check out this bad boy:

January 6 Run: 30 minutes (3 minute warm up, 4 minute cool down), 2.93 miles (4.7km)

Shockingly, the run wasn’t so tough! I am so excited to be healthy again and fit into my jeans!!!

I hope you continue to read on and support me this year! It truly means a lot to me that you are following my blog and supporting me throughout this journey.

I have some more exciting news to share with you coming soon!

I am super happy to be back!!!

Good night world,
Diana Mach

P.S. if anyone knows how to use the Livestrong Livetrack USB stick, please let me know.