Today I went for a run on the beach. In the rain. 
If you know me, then this should be about as stunning as if I’d hauled off and bought a lipstick. (I haven’t.) I am a creature about comfort. I seek cozy wool and warm baths and crackling fireplaces. I hate the rain. I hate being cold. I hate sweating – and logically I therefore can barely express to you how much I hate sweating while I am in the cold rain. On good days, I can motivate myself to ride my bike (which is really more about transportation) and go to yoga (which is really sort of cozy.) Most of my exercise and generally fit self has always come from that, and walking a lot, and having a personality type that moves a lot – when it’s not knitting.
Unfortunately for me, something is happening to me that I am helpless to reverse despite my best efforts. Something that is trying to slow me down.
I am aging. (I hear it happens to the best of us.) I don’t mind aging, I’m not bothered by the numbers that tell how long I’ve been walking the earth… and I’m not opposed to it as a concept. I don’t believe for a moment that I’m losing value as I age. Quite the contrary – actually, I think I’m a better, wiser, smarter, more valuable woman as I age. I don’t even mind how it looks. (Mostly. I deeply miss the previous location and nature of my bust some days, and I agree that I needed less self-esteem to wear a bathing suit ten years ago… but that’s superficial and I try not to think about it.)
The truth is though, that I’m a 41 years old. I’m a woman. I’m small framed. I’m white, and I had a hysterectomy more than a decade ago. That, my friends, is a short list of risk factors for osteoporosis, and I’ve decided not to go that way- or at least to do what I can to avoid it, and that means weight bearing – high impact exercise. Despite my fondest wish that it were true, bike riding and yoga don’t do a lot for your bones. Running does, so shortly after my 41st birthday last year, I bought a pair of running shoes and gave it a whirl.
By December I had tons of pain, and by January I’d been diagnosed with an "osteochondral injury" which is a sort of fracture in my ankle. (Ironic because of course, I was running to avoid fractures.) That took forever to heal, and when it did, I did a lot of research to try and avoid it happening again, and I found out a lot of stuff about running that’s helped. (Like, when you start running, even if you have a really enthusiastic personality, you shouldn’t try running a lot every day. It takes time to build strength to avoid hurting yourself.) I started again in the spring, really slowly, and well.. my improvement has been slow.
I’ve been slogging away running and running, trying and trying and frankly, it’s been months and I still suck. I’m slow. I still have to walk for 30 seconds sometimes to make it possible to go on. I still think I’m going to die most of the time that I’m doing it. I’m still not sure I even like it, and a few weeks ago I had this terrible realization that what I’m waiting for might never happen. I keep thinking that if I run enough it will get easy… and then I was out sweating my way down the street and one of those really buff runners passed me. You know the kind, with all the gear and the shoes and the right sort of jacket and the little water bottles stuck to them… and he had 2% body fat and and you know what? He was sweating like a pig. He really looked like he was working, and I had this horrible thought.
I think maybe running is just really, really hard, and that’s why it sucks.
Even after realizing that though, I’ve kept running. Mostly because I’m stubborn as a mule, I don’t like to get beat by things, because I want to be able to do lots of things when I’m old, because I still think that maybe if I stick with it I’ll get good at it, because I hope that at some point I’ll be a runner, rather than someone who’s running… and because I really, feel like there’s value in trying to do hard things. I think that if I manage it I might really like it about myself. (Should I survive.) Also… I did something that sort of locked me in.
Several months ago, when I was still trying to figure out if running sucked or I sucked at it or if I just wasn’t trying hard enough.. I went to dinner with Joe’s Aunt Julie. Julie’s a breast cancer survivor (and a former Minister of Health for Newfoundland and Labrador) and she’s done the Run for the Cure every year since then, except for this year she can’t, and that night at dinner she said that she was looking for a family member who would be her stand in and do it for her.
I’d had a glass of wine and am the sort of person who rises to a challenge in general.. so… I.. um. I told her I would do it – and I didn’t just sign up to be a walker…. I hit the run button, because I thought that having a goal would help me become a runner, and because I thought that really, sticking up for a family member who had breast cancer was probably good motivation.
So I’ve been running.. and as of today, I still suck. I still have to walk about 10% of the time that I’m covering 4k (which actually means that I’m running 90% of 4k, and that’s a big change) and I’ve been living in fear of Sunday October 4th for months now. I’m terrified of it, and frankly I can’t believe it’s this Sunday. I’ve actually been scared enough that I haven’t really mentioned it a whole lot, because I was hoping it would go away if I didn’t talk about it, but it hasn’t, and whether I feel ready or not, whether I think I can do it or not, whether I can live up to Julie or not…
On Sunday I’m going to try and run 5k. You can sponsor me by clicking here if you would like to, and I’m putting here the little list of things I’m writing on paper and putting in my pocket and taking with me on the run.
1. When I started I couldn’t run half a kilometre, never mind 5k.
2. If you can’t run the whole thing without walking a little, they actually don’t line you up in front of a firing squad.
3. Running 5k is a pretty ridiculously easy cakewalk compared to toughing out the treatment for breast cancer.
4. Eddie Izzard.
Wish me luck. I’ll catch you on the flip side, and with a little luck, maybe I’ll have become a runner by then.
eddie izzard is a good reason to run. He might catch you.
Way To Go!
Good Luck!
No need to run… walking will do fine. And those weight bearing exercises? Hie thee to a gym and get into a weight lifting routine!!
Holy cats. I know this should be about you, but that bit about Eddie Izzard just blew my mind.
It’s, like, woah.
Good on you for taking this challenge on, I am always impressed with people who get so motivated and stick with things.
Um, you got a word in the Urban Dictionary and a writeup in the NY Times? You write whole entire books from start to finish? I think those are pretty difficult to achieve–the 5K will be cake!
No one will even notice if you walk a bit, since you won’t be the only one doing it. You’ll be awesome!
You’ve GOT to read “Born to Run” (was on the NYT bestseller list for a time…which I understand you know something about!). Seriously, it will change your outlook toward running. Humans evolved to run! It just might convince you to try running barefoot…I did and I haven’t looked back.
Off my soapbox now:)
Being a runner isn’t about how far you can run, or how much you sweat, or even how good you are at it. Being a runner is getting up every day, putting on the shoes and saying “Ok. I’m going to do this again today.”
(Or would you tell a new knitter that they’re not a knitter because they can only knit garter stitch?)
Good luck on Sunday!
Good luck! This is super impressive!
I don’t know if this will make you feel any better, but I’m half your age and I only managed to jog a mile (roughly 1.7 km, I think) once in my life. Never mind that I was a swimmer for four years – swimming and running are NOT the same things. I think you’ll do fine!
(P.S. I still love weight training, even after being out of swimming competitively for three years now. It’s empowering.)
There are other ways to do weight bearing exercise than running. Biking and yoga do your cardio, lift weights or something rather than run if you find just cannot continue.
Brava to you however for volunteering and for actually doing the best you can – just like you always do. We’re proud of you.
I once took a running clinic. The instructor was a marathoner and even SHE ran in intervals: 10 minutes running, one minute walking. So if you’re running for 90% of the time, you’re in good company! Good luck!
Best of luck to you Steph! I also suck at running so I really admire your effort to do this for your friend. You can do it!!! 🙂
I participated last year in the Breast Cancer 3-Day (my team and I took pics w/ you when you were in CA at the Maker Faire! :D), and the thought of running a 5K terrifies me… absolutely terrifies me. GOOD FOR YOU! 🙂
God for you! Best wishes to you on Sunday. I bet that the nerves and then excitment you will have at the race will carry you the last 10%.
I have run quite a few races, though “run” is a very subjective term. I have been last in all but one race. I have finished behing the walkers. I have been tailed by the car that goes along the course at the end of the race to pick up trash. Despite that all, I am pretty sure I am still a runner. As long as my butt is out there, plodding along, I am a runner. So are you!
You’ll do great on Sunday! I hope you have pictures for us afterwards!
Laura
Before I clicked through to the link, I thought perhaps you got to take Eddie Izzard along with you on your run. And I was very, very jealous. Oh, well — even without Eddie: Run well!
I watch Eddie’s legs get sexier and sexier over the course of his marathons. May the same happen to you as you do your 5k!
Can I give you a fifth thing to write on your paper?
5. This will inspire others who are running for exercise, because they’re also not sure if they hate it or love it and it feels good to know you’re not the only one who feels that way about running.
I’ve been trying to love running since August. So far, the only thing I really like about it is that I get to write another “R” in purple marker on the calendar.
I just ran a 10K last weekend in the very cold rain (and have a cold to show for it), and so I sympathize! If you check out my blog, on Wed. I posted pictures of myself, my husband and my trainer all looking rather like drowned rats.
I bet you will be surprised at how much fun you have on your run. When you do an event like that, the excitement and energy of everyone invovled really gets into your heart and soul and makes the day soooo much better – and soooo much easier than you ever imagined!.
And hey – I was in a whole lot worse shape than you are in before I started this process in July, and if I can do it ANYONE can!
Best of luck!
Hi Steph
Good for you! I hope you’re successful. However, a little pointer that my doc said to me. I have osteopaenia (ie almost osteoporosis but not quite) after years of undiagnosed Coeliac disease. My doc said to do lots of weight-bearing exercise but *not* running. Lots of walking, with 3 good long walks a week. Then do some “extras” like parking your car a little further away than usual, climbing stairs rather than taking the lift, all those kind of things just to do a little more walking every day. Then also 3 times a week bounce up and down 50 times, and that’s it.
Running, she said, can actually cause a whole series of little stresses and weaken the bones making a fracture slightly more likely. Also, it can damage slightly aging tendons, cartilage etc.
OK, I’m 15 years older than you and I have weakened bones already, but something to keep in mind. A good long walk 3 times a week plus those little “extras” will keep your bones good and strong without the risk of damaging something else by pushing it too hard. Making sure you get lots of calcium and Vit D is good too.
Anyway, good luck for the 4th, and then enjoy your walking afterwards.
Moi x
You (as usual) rock. Your determination, stick-to-it-iveness, passion, compassion (and, just possibly, your insanity) continue to inspire me. You’re going to kick arse on this new adventure!
I am also a sucky runner. I’ve been getting up at 6 or 6:30 about 3 times a week to run 3-4 miles and every morning I have to convince myself that I shouldn’t just stay in bed. Every time I see a slight bit of improvement, the next time I run I feel I’ve gotten worse rather than better. I’m 47 and started running semi-regularly when I was 42. It’s a constant struggle. One question that I heard many years ago: How come runners never look happy when they’re running?
You’ll do just fine on Sunday. An it’ll be over before you know it!
i am a breast cancer survivor
best advice be careful with yourself
evryone needs to be a survior
thank you
You’re running. Therefore, you are a real runner.
Here’s the thing about running, from my point of view. It doesn’t get easier, but you get better. It’s just that you get better slowly, and that’s totally fine.
I can’t help but compare it to knitting. When you start out, a garter stitch square is a huge challenge. Then seed stitch is terrifying. Then you get over that and try lace. And you want to cry, but you get over that, too, and it’s amazing what you can do. Then you look back at that garter stitch square and it’s amazing how far you’ve come.
So for running, at first half a kilometer is nearly fatal. And then you can do that, but getting the next half kilometer nearly does you then. Suddenly, you’re running in the rain on the beach and nearly ready to do your first 5k. Then you do your 5k, and maybe you walk a bit of it, but you’ve still finished a 5k and you’ve made a lot of progress.
I’m so impressed you’re doing this. And for a good cause. If you ever feel like some motivation, you might check out John Bingham’s books or articles. I think he has a really healthy attitude about running.
Thanks. My sister is currently being chopped up bit by bit from metastatic breast cancer and I am convinced that everything we do will help a few more women get that wonderful “r” word (remission). Us families who are praying for a cure salute you ;).
Hey, Seph
You definitely do NOT want to be out front! Think of all the kinnearing you can do! HAHA.
Just finishing will soothe your soul – walking or not. Take it from one who did an LA Marathon (one, thank you) at about your age. Your 5K will stay with you for the rest of your life. It is indeed an accomplishment, and being as stubborn as you are, I know that you will finish!
I’ll raise a glass to you at the finish. Please just make sure you get some sleep and leave the beer alone the night before.
Flags UP for you!
B.
OK, that should have been, Hey, Steph….
gads………..
I cannot tell you how much I admire you for what you’re doing–not just the big run on Sunday, but all the daily runs before and after. I’m 45, and I run only when chased. (I do walk–fast enough to raise my heart rate–nearly every day. Does that count?) But if someone told me I had to run every day, I think I would die. I’m going to sponsor you for all these reasons. Go Harlot!!!
Thanks for the inspiration! In the last few weeks, I’ve just started running, and am VERY slowly doing the Couch to 5K program. If you can do it, so can I, right?
(Or would you tell a new knitter that they’re not a knitter because they can only knit garter stitch?)
There you go. That’s your mantra.
When it gets really hard, it’s “Garter Stitch… Garter Stitch… Garter Stitch”. When you need to slow down and walk, it’s, “Frogging. Frogging. Frogging.” Or “Ripping back,” or whatever you personally call it. If you were teaching a new knitter, would you want him to be ashamed of his (or her) limited skills? Or would you be cheering every stitch, every row? Wouldn’t you be shouting the praise of the first completed scarf?
I’m 62. I’m an athlete. I lift weights and I have a Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do. The old Korean style, not that new “sports” stuff. And let me tell you, Steph. Running is hard. And it hurts. You are a hero for doing this. ( You were a hero before, but that’s another story.)
I have no money today, but I’ll send you what I can in a couple of days. You have my word. And my admiration. You go, woman!
Dude. YOU ARE A RUNNER. You get out there and put one foot in front of the other, over and over and over… YOU. ARE. A. RUNNER.
In the same way that I am a knitter. I don’t produce things that are lovely and I don’t do it in any kind of reasonable time, but I have 2 sticks and string (or 5 sticks and string, if I’m attempting socks), and I AM A KNITTER.
YOU
ARE
A
RUNNER.
Now get out there and make Aunt Julie and The Blog proud.
As an avid high school cross country runner I know exactly how proud one feels after progress! So good job, my friend!
I believe that if you stick with it you WILL get good at it. I am not a runner either, but did start to run over a year ago (it started with a pathetic half jogged mile)and ended with a 5 mile run – challenging myself to do it faster and faster.
At 7 months pregnant I HAD to stop my 3 mile runs and now that I have a 3 month old (along with a 5yr old and 4 yr old), I can’t wait to get out for a run!
So although a “jogger” is the last thing I would define myself as, I guess I do enjoy it now (sweat, heat, exhaustion and all). Endorphins!
YH,
It does get better, it is very very hard, but it does get better. I’ve tried to train for a marathon, but have been told by an osteo that I’m just not built for that…so on to 8ks for me. Once your head gets into it the body does all the hard work and loves you more for it. One day at a time, one step at a time.
Good luck this weekend, you’ll be wonderful.
I commend your efforts on Joe’s aunt’s behalf and I wish you all the BEST on Sunday!! I am of the opinion that runners are basically “born” more so than “made”…you may be able to improve your distances with practice, but if your muscle strength and hip, knee, and ankle configurations are not optimal to running, you will never be a “runner”…I know whereof I speak!! Walking and reasonable strength training done consistently will help us keep osteoporosis at bay without damaging our precious joints…
Oh, Stephanie, thank you! I’m a breast cancer survivor, and I know that many of the advances that made my own experience very easy compared to that of many women are in place because people like you stepped up. Next year I’ll do it too. Thank you.
Eddie Izzard ran 43 marathons in 51 days? Please tell me you do not aspire to that. Your 5k will be awesome, no matter what % of it you walk.
Good for you! I attempted to do a similar thing a couple of years ago which apparently put latent RA into overdrive. They’re just diagnosing it now, so now that I know why my joints suck, I think I’ll try running in the mornings again. Slowly, very slowly to start – maybe I can get to where you are someday!
First, I need to go shoe shopping!
My husband was telling me yesterday that actually the more you work out the more you train your body to sweat… that does not motivate me to work out… you are brave… good luck!
YOU GO Stephanie! I’m 57.5 years old and I started running (again after many many years of not running and gaining weight), and I ran a 5km in July. I was slow, and it was not easy, but I did it, and the rewards are tremendous. You will be busting with pride, and to do it for someone you love is even better! I’ll be thinking about you on Sunday.
Measure your progress against yourself (not against others) and you’ll be surprised how far you’ll go (literally and figuratively).
I never considered myself a runner until I started running races. I’m not the fastest and I can’t run the longest, but I.AM.A.RUNNER. You might find you’re one, too, by the time you’re done.
A note to American readers: The donation amount is in Canadian dollars, so you can give a little more than you think you can!
Here’s one major word to remember – Adreneline! It will kick in and carry you throw every step of that 5K.
Okay, that is very cool. It’s cool because you are proactive in taking care of the good health that you have. It’s cool how much caring about your fellow person you turn into actual charity $$. It’s cool because you’re the yarn harlot. It’s very cool what Eddie Izzard did- wow!
I have to say though that I am not a runner- I too have hurt myself when I tried. I have found something that is fantastic, cheap, easy to do at home and has amazing health benefits. You could try it on rainy/snowy days if nothing else. Get yourself a good quality personal rebounder. They are like low-to-the-ground mini trampolines and there are lots of websites with info about how good they are for you. They are like a power run with minimal shock damage. They are even better for you than running for other reasons, so take a look if you think you might want to try it. You can get one for $75 to $200 and it will either stand up out of the way on it’s side, slide under the bed (if the yarn stash doesn’t live there) or some models fold to be put in a closet, when not in use. Just 5 to 10 mins. a day is enough and more is okay too. I am not selling them- I’m just a fan!
Thanks! As a BC survivor myself, I walked the Avon 2-day walk on my 5th anniversay. Kind of symbolic for me as I was “walking away” from 5 years of treatment (that was 3 years ago). There will be tons of folks walking. In fact, sometimes it’s so crowded, you can only kind of mercifully shuffle along. You’re going to have a wonderful time. Ninaclock145 (A Camellia City Stockinette. Thanks for the great class last week – just bought some straight needles for practicing my lever technique.)
Hooray! You can do this. I started running for Team In Training several years ago and never looked back. I agree with the person who said if you’re running 90% you will be far ahead of many people. When I started I could 75% of the time – run 3 min, walk 1 min.
That is awesome. I’m also an aspiring runner, and it does get easier, eventually, but you’ll still have inexplicably bad days too.
(I had to run 7 miles last week, when my legs were sore from lifting weights the day before.. and it was great. I had to run 8 miles the other day? It was TERRIBLE. I walked most of it. It took almost two hours. We’ll see what tomorrow’s run turns out to be.)
Best of luck with the Run for the Cure. For what it’s worth, I didn’t actually like running until after my first race. =)
Go Steph Go!! You can do it. Good luck!
Sorry to hijack the comments, but in my going on about the book “Born to Run” I forgot to say GOOD LUCK this weekend. What you’re doing is an honorable and noble thing and the fact that doing this 5K got you started running and made you challenge yourself like this makes it all the more impressive. Do well!
I followed his tweets through that. 😀 You are going to do fantastic! You’ll be so pumped by the crowd and excitment, I bet you’ll do amazing. Good Luck!
Running in the rain? Two words (besides “it sucks”) — Wright Socks. Double layer construction, no blisters. You may be soaked but your feet will survive. Even if there’s no rain, these are my go-to socks that keep my feet (and hence, me) happy.
You go, girl! We’ll all be sending you great energy.
You’ve always been fond of a slice of crazy pie. . .I’ll be thinking of you on Sunday!! Walk the whole course if you need to. I’m betting you won’t.
Good luck.
There is no feeling like crossing the finish line of your first race. Or any race. It is a major accomplishment and you should be proud. There are some runners who say you have to be fast to be a “real” runner. As a 3:15 half-marathoner, I say that’s a load of hooey. I’ve finished races last and I am still proud of finishing.
“The miracle isn’t that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start.” –John Bingham
Good running.
Wow. I’m impressed, Steph. I do a ton of walking and yoga, but I totally suck at running. I can run if I have to catch a bus, but I can’t run very far. So go you! But don’t go crazy and start losing toenails. That story freaked me out.
P.S. I’ll be thinking of you when I get my mammogram in two weeks.
I only run from burglers, rapists, and fires. However, I row. I get out in a little boat (or a big boat when I sweep row) and do between 6K – 10K pretty much every day. It’s brutal exercise and I love it. I think you have to find something you love so you don’t mind the brutal exercise. Have fun at your race.
hey! keep at it. i am only at the point where i can slowly (very slowly) jog for 30 minutes. it’s taken forever to get to this point but it was worth it and i hope to keep improving. glad to hear you’re seeing progress too!
Girl, I LIKE you. I’d say I love you but that might freak you out a little bit, since you don’t know me. But I love your blog, admire your fiber skilz, found you even funnier in person (at Sock Summit) than you are in writing and how amazing is it that you pulled that FAB event off? And now to learn that you are running for your health, well, that does it. I have run (jogged, more accurately, off and on since high school, and now that I am closer to 50 than 40 I am realizing (like you) that I must get off my duff again and do this for myself, consistently, if I want to avoid brittle bones and high cholesterol and middle age spread and depression. Thanks for the inspiration in yet one more area….
My sister is running in a marathon on Sunday, and whenever she complains I yell “Eddie Izzard!”
Steph, I’m 30, and I can’t even run one K, let alone 4…I think between you, Eddie and my sister, I should be just about as inspired as I need to be.
It doesn’t really matter whether you label yourself as a runner – the important thing is that you’re doing something you’re nervous about. That in itself is very empowering… especially once it’s over :-).
Steph, you can do this.
Just a week after my 40th birthday, I did a triathlon, 1/3 mile swim, 14 mile bike, 5k. When I signed up in March I could do none of the things individually, let alone together. And, I’m about 100lbs over weight (yes, 100, not 10). If you can run 4 out of the 5k, you should be able to run the whole damn thing on Sunday, just go slow and pace yourself and then bask in the glory of the finish line.
Go for it! I remember when I started running. I was really happy to get to the intersection at the end of my block so I could breathe. It is hard, but it’s doable. Good luck!
You’ll do great. Just keep your pace and don’t be swayed by the other runners to go too fast.
Just remember, even if you come in dead last (and you won’t, but if you did), you are still doing better than all the thousands and thousands of people who stayed in bed and slept late that morning!
Congrats on your determination and your accomplishments. Never let anyone tell you that you are not a runner. Wear good shoes, keep hydrated and know we are all rooting for you.
I’m a survivor. Thank you.
Y E A H ! ! ! You go girl!
As someone who started running at 45 I understand the whole thing you’re going through. I had a coach who got me through it. And you’ll do great, even if you have to walk a little. Something about a race is that you’ll run farther and faster than you usually would so you might surprise yourself. And even if you do have to walk a little, you’re the only one that will care. Everyone else will just be happy and impressed that you ran it. The vast majority of people never get anywhere near running. And remember, sometimes running slowly is as good a recovery time as walking. As my friends and I say, it’s all relative. Have fun.
I admire you so much, Stephanie. I abhor running, and I know what it’s like to push and push and get better, and still hate it. Your passion, determination, and persistence are really an inspiration. I love it that you care enough about the things that matter to you, to do something about them. Best of luck on Sunday.
Steph: I am wholeheartedly behind you and again awestruck by your willingness to go all out and do the hard stuff. But I gotta ask. Do you think it might be the black socks that are slowing you down?
I had no idea you and I had so much in common. Im 42. I had a hysterectomy in 2004 and yes, Osteoporosis runs in my family. (Both Male and Female) And I am a runner. Or I am a runner with a set back due to asthma for the last 18 months.
I too plan to run the Race for the Cure here in Seattle this coming year. And I suck. I am slow… (my last PR was almost 40 minutes.. but I finished!)
The thing that keeps me going with it is that I am doing this for two reasons, 1) my health – which better come back soon (I happen to have the flu at the moment! UGH) and 2) to raise money for a cause.
So if I look at it that way.. I really dont suck at all! 😉
Hi Stephanie, I’m also 41. I started running about 3 years ago when a friend tricked me into signing up for a running clinic, and then abandoned me to my fate. It was with the Running Room, and their program, which progresses from a starter clinic, all the way up to marathons, depends on running 10 minutes and then walking one minute, always. The farthest that I’ve run was 14K, using this method, but I don’t really ever intend to run any other way. I think it’s sort of psychological, in a “well, I can do this, it’s only 10 minutes until I get to walk” kind of way. Besides, i tend to choke if I try to drink water without slowing to a walk … 🙂 Anyway, what I’m trying to say is don’t apologize for walking – It’s a strategy!
Good luck with your run!
Good luck with your run!
You go, girl!!! And Happy Anniversary, too.
Hi! You go, girl! I think you are brave and wonderful to look after yourself this way.
I take very small comfort in the fact that I am a person of some weight and therefore just living is weight bearing exercise for me. Being this way has other drawbacks, of course, like the amount of yarn it takes to make a sweater for me, not to mention other possible health issues.
We know that a person of your energy and stubbornness can certainly do this running thing. One step at a time…
ok, finally I know MORE about something than the yarn harlot. Running is my thing (like knitting is your thing). I’m trying to become a knitter….but I have a long way to go.
But running – here’s what you need to do – certainly now and maybe forever. You MUST walk at least a little bit every mile. Don’t run until you can’t stand it any more and then walk. Walk even when you don’t feel that you need to. Walk on a schedule, early in your run. And you will postpone that moment where you feel like you can’t run anymore.
Really, truly. this is not just for beginners. The case can be made that it will help everyone go faster (ok, maybe not the Olympic 100 meter dash guys). But regular people who run (even the buff ones who are dressed right and have 2% body fat). check out Jeff Galloway’s website.
he will tell you, based on your pace, how often and for how long to walk. Maybe run 9 minutes, walk 1 minute. That’s easy to keep track of on your watch; not much math.
Another survivor to say thank you. I’ll bet you have a great time regardless. It is a special race and a special time.
A side effect of my treatment was full blown osteoporosis as well as osteopenia. Because of that, I walk and do weights. I hate it. I loathe it, but it must be done. They can make me do it, but they can’t make me like it.
Good Luck to you. You will find that the adrenalin of being part of the crowd will carry you a long way. As a former runner of 15 years and completer of 2 marathons, I know that it is not speed that matters, it is stamina, so slow down, enjoy and don’t start out too fast. And talk to whoever is running next to you about knitting…they will start laughing so hard that they will drop behind!
Sunday the 4th is a great day, it’s my Birthday. I will be thinking of you trying your best to succeed at something that is a challenge for you while eating my cake and thinking it should be me out there jogging! Good luck.
It’s admirable that you’re doing the Race for the Cure. But, after Sunday, why don’t you get a set of free weights and sling them about for 30mins a day. If it’s cold, you can do it in front of the fire, then you can lope off for a cup of tea in the kitchen – 6 feet away. So much more civilised! But 10 out of 10 for sticking to it.
While I’ve never run 5k (and don’t ever plan to), I walked my first 5.5 km fundraiser (Barrhaven Run for Rogers House – a palliative care residence for kids and their families), I watched lots of runners practicing. Most of the ones who signed up to do the run (or walk) ran for a bit, then walked, right up to the day before the run.
I knew my body couldn’t handle running, so I marched along with my Border Collie, and completed the 5.5 km in 1 hr & 8 mins – only 10 mins behind the last runner. 🙂
Thank you for running to support Joe’s aunt and to raise money to help find a cure for a horrible cancer that’s already claimed two of my much younger friends this year. We’re with you all the way, even if we’re not there to run beside you. ((hugs))
I’m really proud of you. I didn’t get to take part in my city’s Susan Komen Race for the Cure this year, so I donated to your goal instead. I really hope you reach it, Stephanie… may this be the last year that the cure is found, so a race like this isn’t needed next year. Hugs!
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!
And dare I say it? The two glasses of wine in me are propelling me to do it…the “I’ve changed and you haven’t” is the very excuse my X gave me for breaking up our 7 year itch…ce la vi…
I DESPISE running, and yet in a moment of utter insanity, I agreed to do a half marathon with some girlfriends (another who kindly pointed out that distance running is a sure sign of a mid-life crisis). Its on Thanksgiving weekend and we’ve been training for 11 weeks. Did I mention I hate running? And I hate hearing runners telling me one day I will have an epiphany and break through the hate and suddenly love it. Liars. My usual line about running is I only do it when I’m being chased. I’m doing it, I’m going to do it but it doesn’t mean I have to like it. I love my girlfriends and that’s why I’m doing it. Like you love Joe’s Aunt Julie.
ps. We’re doing run 4 minutes, walk 1 minute and its a rather civil way to go. Easier on the joints too. Its all the mental math that gets me though so I bought a watch that beeps at me when to walk and when to run. Much easier.
I used to run in college – it was a good way to clear my head. It never became fun, but it did become a bit of an obsession to beat myself at my desire to quit. Later, I switched to walking. This is also weight-bearing exercise that is hugely better for your knees (ever seen a knee replacement?). The other good weight bearing exercise is weight lifting. You don’t have to turn into the Incredible Hulk doing it, but you get stronger in muscle, bone and mind, which also builds your spirits. The added muscle mass also burns more calories which is a big bonus as we get older. Just a thought. Good luck with the run.
Dude. Seriously, rock it. I have a brother who is an ultramarathoner (meaning, he runs a 100 miles for the fun of it, and yes, I think he’s certifiable) and he says that every day going for a run is a struggle. And it hurts. Every single day. And he does this stuff for fun. I run to, but not nearly to that extent. And the little pack that those “elite” runners carry? The perfect size for a sock. How do I know? I’ve carried one on a run one time so that I would have have something to do while I waited for a ride back to my car. So see, running and knitting DO belong together! Go get ’em, girl!
Steph, ole non-knitter again – my husband is known as a very good runner. He has completed many marathons, and other distances. His best times have come when he does the run/ walk which is proposed by Jeff Galloway.
The fact that you are putting on the laces is enough. Do your best, without spending valuable energy on worry, times, or distance.
I too run, and I don’t like it, and I also don’t think I’m very good at it, but I know it’s good for my body. Sometimes I run on my treadmill because I don’t wish for the neighbours to see my running technique, or how often I have to stop and gasp for air. I imagine they are falling all over themselves with hysterics as I go flailing down the street (with certain body parts jiggling out of control.) As a cancer survivor, I thank you and wish you good luck with the run on Sunday.
good for you – I run and my gout kicks in so I do other things – check out this book – truly the courage to start
http://www.amazon.com/Courage-Start-Guide-Running-Your/dp/0684854554/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1254446368&sr=8-1
Good luck! I start training next week to run a 5K in March. Currently I’m at the “can’t run a quarter mile without wanting to die” (which must be a rough equivalent of the half kilometer thing you were mentioning), but I’ll think of you while I’m gasping for breath and wanting to die and hopefully not fall on my face.
Way to Go!! So, OK, I will get back to my walking routine. I always say I don’t run because I like my knees (am overweight), but will get back to the walk. However, PLEASE wear white socks on Sunday!
Run, Stephanie, Run! The 5k will be easy with everyone around you. Running is real work, and that’s why it’s a challenge!
You and your daughters are an inspiration. I’ve donated something in appreciation and admiration of what you’ve accomplished. I wish I could spare more!
I have run cross country for the last four years of high school. I had a 4k meet today with wind gusts of 45mph and rain. I walked about ten steps and beat myself up over it. Then I read your #2 on your list of things you were going to take with you. You were right. Thank you 🙂
First, I admire you’re determination for doing something to honor your aunt. Secondly, and mostly, have you had your CBC checked recently? You sound alot like myself in your struggle to become a runner. I have anemia due to a chronic health issue, and my doctor explains that is why I have some degree of “exercise intolerance”, which is to say I run slower, and not as far than someone else of equal age and fitness level. Basically, I just have to give myself a break and realize my body is doing the most that it can under the circumstances. I still plug away and do what I can, but I try not to beat myself up too much over my limits. Anyway, thought I should put a thought in your ear, so that you may be able to check it out.
Good luck! What a wonderful thing you are doing! 🙂
1. Eddie Izzard rocks. I did not know that he was such an athlete.
2. You, Stephanie, also rock. You took on a challenge and kept at it even though it sucked. If you move forward 5K at the race, it doesn’t matter if you run, walk or crawl. You did the distance.
3. I missed the Seattle Race for the Cure for the first time in 10 years. Our personal demon is our daughter’s metastatic ovarian cancer which is our life right now. I’ve lived with the spectre of breast cancer my whole life–Mum had it when she was 30. We girls learned to do SBE when we developed breasts. But, I digress. The Race is so fantastic–the energy sweeps you along.
Best of luck and congratulation! Do your aunt and your faithful knitting minions proud.
(I hoped to meet you and Tina at Pt Ludlow, but it’s not meant to be this year)
Cheers!
You will be fine at the 5k… there are sooo many people that you won’t actually have to ‘run’ for perhaps several blocks or more… fast walking is totally acceptable in crowd situations…have a great time, you are doing it for the right reason.
Hang in-it gets easier. The only thing that works for me is my IPod. When I started back running(wrecked knee and had to stop for years and then was afraid to run at all) last year, I would make a pact with myself to run for 2 songs, walk, run… you get the idea. Pretty soon I was running the whole way. I am also running in an event-a half marathon to be exact-and doing it with my dear friend in mind who is undergoing surgery for breast cancer next week. I trashed my shins 3 weeks ago trying to train too hard and am now getting back to it. Race is the 18th-wish me luck and I will do the same for you. And walking is perfectly fine if you need to-finish is the operative word.
Steph, your efforts to represent your Aunt Julie are definitely worth it. My brother has just been diagnosed with mantle cell lymphoma (go ahead and look it up–it’s brutal) and I’m donating to leukemia/lymphoma research this year. I keep telling myself that “no one gets out of life alive,” and “it’s the quality not the quantity.” So I try to exercise as much as I can — mountain biking (definitely an impact sport), swim, cross-country ski, walking … I still claim to be 49.95! May the Powers That Be heap blessings on your efforts.
Good for you Stephanie!
A worthy cause and what a lot of progress you’ve made.
I need to make a change like that myself and SOON – I just read online that overweight women die 10 yrs earlier than average weight women. Gulp!
Thanks for the link, Eddie Izzard is amazing!!
Enjoy your run – we’ll be cheering you on in spirit.
Good luck on Sunday!
I have the same mindset as you about running, I hate it. But if I have a nice park to run through and if it has small wildlife to keep me amused, then I kind of forget about how much I hate running and just enjoy the scenery.
I did it once – maybe. It was a blur. You’ll be pushed along the first 1/2 kilometer by the crowd (in a good way) and then you’ll go too fast, because you’re you. Then, heck, take 2 blocks to walk where no one can really see you. Take it easy on the way back, and when you start to see people you know, run your arse off. You are going to feel so good when it’s over! Proud of you.
Wow! Good for you. I can’t wait to see the pics (assuming you take any).
I type about breast cancer most of my working days (I work for an oncologist who sees breast and bowel cancer patients), but as an overweight 50 yo whose exercise is cerebral than actual but who looks at her ever expanding abdomen, I will donate this side of the Pacific.
Good luck. Just taking the challenge is good – and in future try exercise that is kinder to your body – rebounding sounds good. (Remember that all your walking helps, even if it is to the grocery store down the street – it is a whole lot better than having all that stuff delivered!)
Forgot to add that you are also doing your bit to age healthily(as if you didn’t already know that)-I turn 48 in a little over a month and feel the running has helped with all that.
I’m glad someone has already mentioned John “The Penguin” Bingham: “The miracle isn’t that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start.”
He is to writing about running a bit like what you are to writing about knitting. And I think you might appreciate what he has to tell us about ourselves and why we hit the road.
My husband is running his first marathon on the 4th. I need to tell him about Eddie Izzard NOW!
Take walking breaks, enjoy the scenery, put your name–or the name of someone you’re running for–on your t-shirt, and have a good time!
Good for you! I joined a running clinic two years ago and have been running on and off since then. When I did my first 5km (after running only six weeks) I ran 5 minutes and walked one minute. The minute of walking really helps recover and gain momentum for the next five minutes of running and I managed to do the race in 30 minutes.
You’ll do great no matter what your time is…good luck!
Google for “Learn to run 10K” which is a program to get you ready for the Vancouver Sun run. It is a 13 week program starting with running for 30 seconds, walking for 4:30 minutes and repeating this x number of times. Repeat for week one. By week 13 you’re running for about an hour. (I don’t have the sheet in front of me so am winging it). It is a painless way of getting into running.
Good luck!
Thank you for running. I lost my sister 11 years ago this month to breast cancer. She died 10 days after her 35th birthday. It was my pleasure to be able to sponsor you.
Kudos and hugs. What you are doing is awesome.
Also… for bone density improvement, look into Rebounding. It exercizes [read “strengthens”] “every cell in your body.” Some of the gentler bouncing allows me to knit… just give it some thought……………..
Go Stephanie!
Just for the record, a stiff swift walk is good weight-bearing exercise too and easier on the feet. My grandfather walked seven miles a day for decades, then three in his late 80’s, and when he finally quit at about 90 he suddenly turned into an instant old man and became diabetic, a heart patient, and frail. But not till 90, and he lived 5 more years on his own terms in his own home after that.
Good for you!
I, like you, have been trying to run. I started about a year ago. I still suck and I still don’t think it’s fun. But high blood pressure runs in my family and cardio is the best natural way to keep the pumps in good working order so I’m sucking it up (or at least trying to).
Best of luck with the race!!
That’s AMAZING!! And wonderful of you! I’ll definitely help sponsor you. I’ve always wished I can run but I’m too self-conscious to start it (I’d have to go a snail’s pace to begin with, and I’m “young and healthy”. Well, except for my lungs…)
I’m in awe that you’re going to try this. Wishing you luck!
First of all, you are awesome for doing this. You took it on because it was a challenge for you and because it was a right and good thing to do. If your top speed was a snail’s pace and those two things were still true, you would still be awesome.
Second, I know everyone’s giving you advice but here’s mine. Check out doctormama dot blogspot dot com. She’s a doctor and a runner and I really like her basic rule for running which is–don’t be afraid to go slow. If you permit yourself to run as slow as you need to, it’s a lot easier to increase distance and time running. Following her advice was the first time I felt like a runner (even if I’m one that a dawdling toddler could lap) and it allowed me to run three or four miles for the first time in my life too. She explains it much better, though, so do read what she has to say.
Good luck, Stephanie! You’re inspiring. (But, no, I’m not going to take up running. I’ll find another challenge. :-))
I think you and your daughter have a lot in common. You both believe in going the distance for the benefit of others. What a great family trait.
You can do it!! And yes, running sucks, but at some point you’ll realize that you’re much better off than you were before, and the whole point is to keep sweating like a pig. Every time you go out there, you’ll run a little further or a little faster, and you’ll sweat. It’s work. But it’s worth it.
YOU GO!!
Best of luck, Stephanie! You’re a jewel doing this for all the right reasons, both for yourself and your aunt. You should be proud of yourself!
I’m currently building up to a 5k myself though I have a much longer deadline. My charity run will be the Jingle Bell Run which raises money for our local parks here as well as Toys for Tots. If I progress well enough, I may warm up with the Turkey Trot though, our Thanksgiving race that benefits the Refuge House for battered women
You can do it!
That’s awesome, Stephanie! I’m so proud of you! You’re tackling something that’s really quite challenging, and you’re doing it for a great cause. I think we could all use a little bit more of that kind of grit.
Don’t worry about walking bits. The run/walk methods are a great way to build endurance and add miles with a very low risk of injury. I plan to run/walk my way through my first marathon at the end of this month.
For years (like all of high school and college and the couple of years following college to this spring), I’ve been a sporadic runner. I’d run once or twice a week, maybe, but mostly preferred other activities like dance. Then, early this past spring, I was having a really rough time of things and decided that I needed to do something hard that I was in control of (because apparently I think the best way to deal with challenges is to increase them), so I decided to run a marathon. The training has been a ton of work (getting up early on Saturday mornings to go run has been the hardest), but I feel like I’ve grown a lot as a person, and it seems to have gotten me through the other crap I was dealing with too. Running is still hard, but that’s part of what I like about it.
Anyway, I really just wanted to say that I admire you tremendously for doing this, even more because I know a little bit of how it feels. Good luck on your race – you’re gonna do great!
Steph, you run. Therefore you ARE a runner. By definition. 90% is amazing. And p.s.: get a dog. A smallish cat-loving, your-house-sized dog. They love to run — or walk — so much, so very, very obviously much, with such absolute visible joy and abandon, that nothing can suck very much in the presence of such happiness. (They also tend to like being cozy and warm with you — AFTER the run.)
Running 90% is awesome. You will do great.
IF you choose to keep running after this, it is possible you can stop hating it. Barter some knitting lessons with for some running lessons. Really. I used to hate to run, but kept doing it, until a friend who is a real live runner came with me (letting him come with me took a good deal of courage on my part). He showed me *how* to run, how to find a pace that was comfortable, and everything changed. We may have been born to run, but those of us that have not been doing it our whole lives do benefit from a few kind hints dropped here and there.
now go go, you awesome you!!
I downloaded an app and loaded it on my iPod that coaches you to 5k. You start out running for 30 seconds and then walking for 90 seconds, then repeating until your 20 minute workout is complete. (If quiets the music and tells you when to change pace. Then the music resumes.) It might help you.
I find that the thing that keeps me from running is a terminal case of lazy. Good luck to you.
My bet is: you’ll run the entire thing, and faster than you ever thought possible. (But walking is perfectly acceptable as well!) All those people around you give you wings. I think that’s the secret, the reason why people sign up for so darn many, at least in the US (I’m pretty sure it’s not for the T-shirts). And one of these days, you just might wake up in the morning, and your body will demand that you take it running. You’ll be shocked. You will try to resist it, coming up with 1000 reasons why you don’t want to run that particular morning. But you might find yourself strapping on your shoes anyway. At least, that’s what happened to me just this morning (having an enthusiastic dog helps). Sometimes I dream about running, especially when I am injured and I can’t. (Full disclosure: I am not some big runner with gear and 2% body fat! I wear a big T-shirt and my MDS&W baseball cap to hide my pre-shower hair. And I can usually only make it about 3K or less — unless I am in a race.) Good luck, you are running for great causes — the charity, and your health!
Hooray for you! I just signed up for my first 5K as well, and have a month more to get used to running that distance. I’ve slowly, slowly worked my way up to running 30 minutes straight–and have just realized that I run even slower than I thought, that my 30 minutes is just 4K. But I’m doing it nonstop, and that is a huge change for me too. Have a great run on Sunday–I’ll be rooting for you.
You.GO.Girl!
Do it for all of us who can’t.
(I used to, loved it – well, loved how it felt when it was over, not the during part – but now can’t run for various health reasons)
I’ll be with you in spirit!
Whoohoo!
(((hugs)))
My daughter and I have done the Race for the Cure in Sacramento, CA. It is an amazing event and no one is going to care whether you are running or walking—-you are out there doing it for loved one!! You CARE and that is all that matters. Be inspired and amazed on Sunday!
You can do this and it will get easier. I am 58 and have been running for 30 years. 3 marathons, numerous 10k and half marathons–none fast. I was one of those ‘worst in my physical education class’ types in school. I now can’t imagine life without running–it is part of who I am. I do it for all the health reasons, not just the weight bearing stuff for bones but for heart health, and stress relief, too. I’ve had major surgery and running pays you back so much–up walking right away and walking a mile within a week. You become very strong through running which will help you when you are my age.
I am also a newish knitter who feels intimidated by all you great knitters (particularly at SS), and I wonder if I will ever get very good. But, like running, I am getting better with time. I figure if I can run well I can learn to knit well. If you just turn that one around you will know you can run–just give it time. Keep it up after the race and let us know after a solid year of running if it is getting easier. It must have taken you more than a few months to become such a good knitter. My very best thoughts go with you on the big day.
Don’t be intimidated. Just go out and kick ass!
Hey, Steph:
It does get easier.
It’s never quite as much fun as knitting, but there is fun in there.
Four years ago, I had a psychotic notion to do a little triathlon.
Hated the open-water swimming, loved the biking, but (surprise!), the running is what stuck.
Four training seasons and nearly a THOUSAND miles of training later, I’m headed to Chicago for (my second!) marathon…
And I still have a hard time calling myself a runner.
p.s. I’m slow. I may have bottles on a waist belt, but only because it takes me FOUR HOURS to do my long training runs, and a girl can only go without Pinot Grigio for so long. (Kidding.) (Sort of.)
Good for you! And have fun. (It will be fun. Really. Trust me.)
There’s nothing like having a goal. It changes you.
I just donated $25 for your run, and posted a link to your donation page on my Facebook page. Hope it helps!
I am a breast cancer survivor and I’m satisfied with walking. Nobody who lived past 100 was ever a runner.
But good luck, anyway!
I didn’t mean that to sound so snarky. It’s something my doctor says. He thinks running is bad for you. Since I have bursitis in one hip and have had surgery on one knee (pretty impressive for a complete non-athlete), I don’t run EVER. Hurts.
One of the things I like best about the Internet is the sense of kismet. I spend my morning asking myself if I’m ever going to get those shoes and give running a go, as I’ve been promising myself for nine months in an effort to make lifestyle changes to keep osteoporosis at bay, and lo! One of my heroes shares her plans to do the same. Now I think I might actually give running a go.
Steph, you are a perpetual source of inspiration and delight, and I want to say thanks for sharing this with us. Good luck on the 4th!
Good For you! You’ll do fine. We’ll be cheering you on.
GO Stephanie!!
You are absolutely already a runner! I wish I could go as far as you (trashed my ankles a while back, so running is right out)–have an excellent time on your big day!! When I found I couldn’t run, I turned to free weights and Afro-Caribbean dance at home (when no one was looking, of course!). Now *that* was a blast, and got me in pretty good shape pretty fast–and was great in the depths of winter instead of the treadmill-to-nowhere.
Compared to Eddie Izzard we are all slugs. Good luck on Sunday. I bet adrenalin will carry you at least halfway! I hate running with a white-hot passion, but I love and actually look forward to power walking.
You’ve left one item of your list of things to remember:
The people that will benefit from the run really don’t care how you make it to the finish line. Run, walk or cartwheel the whole distance, they’ll appreciate the effort and committment.
Well done.
I ran a 5K a couple years ago to see if I could, and afterward, I was talking to some serious runners I know who run marathons, and asked them if it was normal to feel kinda lousy for, like, a mile or so when I first began running. They said it was, and even they felt pretty lousy when they started out on their runs. It made me feel better to hear that. Good luck; you will be great – and everyone is right about the adrenaline.
You go, girl!!!!!!!!!!!!
I used to set records for slow … and then my doctor told me not to run because my very lax ligaments can’t take it. I miss the brief moments of exhilaration that occurred between longer periods of all-out effort, though…. Good luck on Sunday! (I’m trying to donate, but the site declined my money. I’ll try again.)
I’m going to second the advice to slow down. If you are short of breath, you are going too fast. You should be able to talk while you are running. Not sing an opera, but talk in at least short sentences. Yes, you already feel like you are the slowest person in the world. Trust me, you aren’t.
I know this, because *I* am the slowest person in the world.
oh, but crossing that finish line is exhilarating. Go, knitter!
I totally commiserate with the bust thing. And running, for me, is out of the question. Best of luck, and drink enough!
You continue to find new ways to inspire! I am so impressed…and as a woman of 46, who’s kept her baby fat on way too long (a decade now) I know that I am flirting with health issues if I don’t find a regular health routine…much, much luck on Sunday…you’ve inspired me to be a little more stubborn about taking care of myself!
Trish
Good luck! I just did the Komen Race for the Cure on Saturday. I did the walk because running is, well, not for me. It’s always an incredible experience to see so many people together in support of a great cause. Have a fantastic time!
Admirable; go for it! It’s easier in a crowd. I ran my first 5K at age 50. I didn’t train. I hate training; it’s boring and it hurts. I ran mostly 5K races, a few 10K, a couple a little longer, over a span of 10 years. I’ve never liked running. I do like being where things are happening, and in a smaller town, that is the races. My knees hurt; it was hard on me. This summer I took up biking with a group and bought a really nice bike. Ahhhhhhh…. Maybe XC skiing all winter will help my bones instead.
That is truly amazing. I don’t run, largely because I hit myself in the eye with my… um… chest when I do, and my chest hurts so much by the time I’m done that I check to see if everything is still attached, and then I kind of wish it wasn’t so I could exercise like that without pain. The point is, as someone who really hates running, I look up to you for being, well, everything it takes to get up and do what’s right for your health and for your relative. You have my respect.
Good for you! And, also, good for you.
I hate to run. I hate to sweat. I hate it when it’s hot. And sweaty. I hate to wear shorts. So…for so many reasons, I admire you.
By the way, those don’t look like handmade socks.
Also…can’t get away from it: the aging thing is a bitch. It also screws up your memory and your sense of reality. At age 60, when anyone asks how old I am, I still reply, “45”. That’s how I feel, therefore that’s what I am. Best part of being older, if you’re really, really, really lucky, you get grandchildren.
I love Eddie Izzard.
Aging also screws up your ability to post an articulate response to anything on a blog.
“3. Running 5k is a pretty ridiculously easy cakewalk compared to toughing out the treatment for breast cancer. ”
This made me laugh — I’m a BC survivor and I don’t run — I’m afraid running would feel too much like toughing out treatment 😉 So one woman’s cakewalk is another woman’s trial. I salute you!
I’m running for breast cancer on Sunday, too! it will be my very first ‘public’ run and I’m very excited. just last weekend i ran my first 5K on my own, and I did it again tonight. i’m sure that Sunday will be a breeze for both of us, and, I agree, definitely much easier than going thru cancer treatments
I’m impressed. I refuse to run for 2 reasons #1 is that I have big boobs and I really AM afraid of getting a black eye from them, #2 is that they don’t make good enough sports bras for that, if they did it would probably involve some sort of industrial adhesive and winches, #3 is I’m lazy. Ok, I refuse to run for 3 reasons.
But I have a great deal of respect for those who do/can. And I think your reasoning for doing it is even more impressive. Way to go!
Good Luck! as long as you cross the finish line, it counts!!! it won’t matter if you walk, run or crawl or roll. You are doing it for a just cause.
I decided to run earlier in the year, myself, mostly because a good pair of running shoes is cheaper than a gym membership and I live in an area with a lot of hills. I know how it feels to first start off and feel like crap and barely stumble through my 4 mile (6k) course (which I didn’t even realize was that long until I checked online). The fastest mile I have is 11:59 (really indoctrinated runners seem to consider themselves “slow” under an 8 minute mile, and practically tortoiselike under 10).
But there’s a crazy thing that you’re going to realize when you actually do a race with other runners. They don’t care how slow you are. The rest of them are seriously just happy that you are out running. I’m considerably chubbier than you are, and when I did my first 5k (for anyone in the USA, that’s about 3 miles) I was prepared to make angry rants against people wondering why the fat chick was running, and got nothing but support. If you look like you’re flagging, someone will jog up to you and tell you that you can make it, that you’re doing great. The volunteers marking the course applauded everyone. I made two “friends” on the course, and every time one of us looked a little fatigued, another would crack a joke or offer some kind of support, and we all finished around the same time.
And when I tell even hardcore runners that it took me 40 minutes to finish, their response is “Good for you!” Running is a completely different culture than I had expected (somewhat cultlike, but probably the healthiest cult members you’ll ever meet), and I never would have realized it if I hadn’t gotten up the nerve/stubbornnes to train for a 5k.
Just remember: you’re doing great, you’re doing something for a great cause, and nobody cares how much time it takes you to finish but simply that you bothered to run.
Congrats on doing the CIBC Run for a Cure. I started running just before I hit 40 and I haven’t stopped (I’ll be 47 in Feb.). I have been a faithful proponent of run/walks; you run for a set period of time (usually 10 minutes) and take a 1 minute walk break. This approach has been very successful for many many people and you are not considered a failure if you walk. Not at all. The fact is, you are out there running (or walking) and you are doing more than most other people when it comes to physical activity. I cheer you on and encourage you to keep at it. If you want, I can send you a running program progression (I coach women in running portion of a beginner triathlon training program) that may help you on increasing your running. It has been very successful with the women in our program and you may want to give it a whirl!
Good luck on Sunday and remember the cause!
Way to go, picking up a challenge like a 5K. You will be great, especially given all of your accomplishments.
You rock. Like a giant rocking thing that rocks really hard. You have one year on me, and I aspire to your attitude about age–most days I’m pretty much there. I hated running, but managed to pull off a marathon (with a lot of walk breaks) in 2001–you can totally do this 5K.
Hey–I commented way back when I first started reading you, and told you about my fantasy of becoming a midwife. You sent me a lovely email in response, and I just thought I’d let you know that I’m finishing up my prerequisites and have my nursing school applications in.
I’ll be thinking of you on Sunday!
You do realize that walking is also considered high impact don’t you? And it is a lot less stressful on your joints. Just sayin’.
I just started running after LOATHING it for many, many years, and here was the key for me: slow. If I am breathing so hard I can’t say a whole sentence or count to ten in one breath, I’m working too hard and I slow down.
I start off a run at a very slow jog, trying not to bounce too much (wastes energy), keeping my knees bent, and I always run less than my threshold. I’m not interested in speed, I’m interested in going the distance without stopping. If that means I run like a little old granny, so be it. Eventually I will get more fit and run less like a little old granny.
Congrats on accepting the challenge. I (walked) the Orange County Race for the Cure last weekend. It was an incredible experience for me… I work in breast cancer research so I have had a lot of contact (particularly recently) with many women going through treatment. Seeing all those people walking for others and SO many survivors was truly moving. There were over 30,000 people at this year’s event!! I set a very modest fund raising goal and I was so grateful for every donation I received that I HAD to donate to your grand effort. It’s not much but every little bit helps – your MSF challenge sure proved that!
Yay, Steph! I’m so proud of you. Both my parents and my brother were runners when I was growing up but I always hated it. I finally got started running 5 years ago (because I was tired of being an out-of-shape wimp) and I’m still very slow. It doesn’t suck most of the time, but it does rain alot in Oregon and sometimes I run in the rain and that sucks. I hope it’s clear for your race day. Stopping for walk breaks at regular intervals helped me work back from injury earlier this year… and it is NOTHING to be ashamed of! Especially with benefit races, finishing is what counts! Good luck!
Good for you! I was running earlier this year, until I sprained my ankle… twice. Two weeks apart. Now that I’ve given it time to heal (okay, a couple of “appropriate lengths of time”), I think it’s best to get back on the road.
Good luck with your run! I find upbeat music always inspires better times. Just watch out for cracked pavement!
As the elite marathoner guy at my former place of employ used to say to me when he’d finished whipping through a little 13 mile lunch run and I’d finished my 5 mile lunch run (and I think he finished first)… YOU ARE A RUNNER!
Or, as we say in my preferred activity, randonneuring – “it is a big tent with room for all”
But +1 on the weights. They really do build up the bone mass, says the 53 year old with bone mass a 26 year old would envy…
Enjoy your run! And I’m betting you will NOT the be last one to finish!
You’ll do great Steph! I’ve participated in the Run for the Cure for about 14 or 15 years. At first it was just because it was a good cause and my employer was one of the title sponsors. Then in 2000 it became personal when my best friend was diagnosed. For six years we ran walked and stumbled through it together. I lost her three years ago, but our team still participates and I know she’s there with us.
Don’t dread it. It’s a great event and the energy of the participants will give you a boost that will amaze you. Plus there’s free bagels at the end :).
You can do it! I had never run a whole 5k in my life before the (very, very short) triathlon I did last August, but somehow, it worked! If you’ve been training, you’ll pull through in the pinch. Just the adrenaline alone is an incredible force and your state of mind is really what matters.
The only thing that can really screw you over psychologically is RACING. Being stupidly competitive in a charity run is a very easy trap to fall into, no matter how ridiculous you know it is.
Good luck. You’ll kick ass/arse, I’m sure.
P.S. To Sarah, with the bewbs that keep her from running? Check out Title 9’s sports bras. They’re by women athletes for women athletes and they’re supposed to be tip top. (I think they have a money-back guarantee, too…and no I don’t work for them!)
Wow… I’m super impressed with Eddie Izzard!
I really admire you, although you’ve scared me with that osteoporosis talk! I hate running with a passion, but I feel like if you hate it and still do it, maybe I could… I dunno.
I’m going to get back into my dancing (salsa and lindy), I wonder if that’s high-impact enough? It’s certainly a lot more fun. Maybe I should pick up tap, that’s definitely high-impact. I just really can’t imagine anything worse than running – so good on you!
Good for you for doing this! Run strong! Run Proud!
I was a runner back in the day and I have a tip. If you remember to keep your arms going (and going forwardly, not swinging across your body) they will carry 20% of your body weight forward for you. When you get tired, your arms are the first thing to stop moving. Keep them going and the rest of you will follow.
Good luck and enjoy!
Hi Steph
Your blog is a wonderful diversion for me, I really enjoy reading about your doings. Anyway I`m a yoga teacher and I just wanted recommend having a peak at the yoga journal website http://www.yogajournal.com and looking up osteoporosis – you might be nicely surprised.
Lots of love, and good luck for Sunday
Sarah
It’s a good reason to run but your knees will love you more if you walk!! If regular walking is too slow for you try power walking! Good luck in the 5K.
You can do it! We all have faith in you!
Hi Steph,
My friends started to run with a group: it made it much easier. They wanted to run 10 miles (16 km). AND THEY DID! They did it for fun, for themselves, and perhaps also for a ‘good cause’, but they did it. They ran the annual Dam to Dam run that passed their houses for 24 years and so the 25th year they wanted to take part. My husband is a runner and I’m not always content with that, but I can imagine the proud you will feel AFTER you did it. Walking or running, the crowd will carry you. And for the moment: you’ve managed to get the CIBC-site down (or they’re running something through the night). Have fun sunday and be proud! The next run will be easier.
Lona,
The Netherlands
My Mum and I did the UK version. She’s 72, and I had a Chest Infection. So we both walked it, and a brisk pace. Some people in our team managed to run it in half an hour (with no training!!!), we took a shade over an hour. And it was very worthwhile. Mum’s now totally got the fundraising bug.
We ran for a friend, unfortunately, a shade over a week after she died:
http://sephaundone.blogspot.com
Em was a knitter: and her words on the subject are that one should only run when being pursued by a bear. However, she appreciated that we were running (or jogging, or knitting as we went round).
xxx
Hello there. This is my first ever comment despite reading your great blog for a while now. I just wanted to wish you luck on the running and to say that actually the fact that you walk when you go out running is good. I started running recently too and all the runners I have spoken to have said run for 5 or 10 mins then walk for a minute or 2 and alternate it like that. Have you ever visited the Running room stores – they are fab and really supportive. Good luck with your run. You will do awesome.
I know it’s a little late for this, but if you’re still wanting to run after the 4k race on Sunday…I would highly, highly recommend a couch-to-5k program. I used the one at coolrunning.com and it was *amazing* to see myself slowly becoming the sort of person who can run three miles…or five, which I actually did (once). I did feel like dying much of the time, but it ever so slowly works you up to running longer distances. And then I didn’t run for a month…and when I started up again? 3 miles. Easily. And I’m one of the most unathletic people you’ll ever meet.
I want to get back into it but I haven’t had the time lately with Real Grad School rearing its ugly head around here, but seriously, so many people see a lot of great things come out of the couch to 5k that it’s totally worth a shot.
Good luck with the race! You’re going to be great, and who cares if you have to walk part of the way? It’s crossing the finish line that counts, and I know you can do it.
Hi there
I started reading your blog about a month ago and I really look forward to each new entry.
I want to wish you all the luck in the world on Sunday. I did the UK version for the first time this year – albeit walking not running as knees already knackered (exactly the same high indicators of osteoporosis as you including the hysterectomy at 31 – that’s one’s a bummer isn’t it!!)
It was a fantastic event and everyone’s encouragement really helps you on your way. So don’t worry and enjoy yourself!!
Carol x
(Stratford-upon-Avon, UK)
The donate link wouldn’t work for me. Any other way to do it?
I think you’re awesome. My arthritis is so bad that I can’t walk 3 blocks, let alone run 5K so my hat is off to you for even trying!
Mwahahahaaa! Welcome to the dark side!
I will keep this short:
1) beware of the race bug (once bitten, no turning back!)
2) Running is always hard work, but very few things beat the endorphines after a good work-out. Marathons provide a week-long high 🙂
3) Get inspiration and encouragement from running podcasts on the iPod while you’re out there: check runningpodcasts.org for a wide selection.
4) Good luck for Sunday!
No can clicky donate; maybe it’s just me?
Good luck!
Good for you! That is so cool!!! When I was younger I loved to run. I loved running so much that back in high school I used to run track, long distance, and play soccer. I can’t run anymore due to arthritis, and I miss it. So what if you have to walk part of the run! Who cares! The important thing is that you are out there and doing it. You are trying to help, that’s all that matters. My mother-in-law, and a dear friend Marge both died of breast cancer. In Marge’s family, all the women and some of the men died from this awful disease. I have friends that are survivors and a friend’s mom who is fighting breast cancer. I also have 2 friends who are both battling different forms of cancer, one is terminal. I could go on and on. Cancer is such an awful illness and there’s not much we can do for friends and family when it happens to them. The disease can make us feel so powerless, even though we aren’t. So you go girl!! More power to you! If we all do a bit to help, eventually we’ll get there. I can’t run but I can dye so even I found a way to help. Our area is hosting a Casting for Recovery next year. Casting for Recovery is an all expenses paid 2 1/2 day retreat for Breast Cancer survivors. They get to learn about fly fishing and get away from it all for a weekend. I met the president of the Fly Fishing group that is sponsoring it in our area next year. He was looking for breast cancer pink wool to use to tie special flies he designed for the retreat and couldn’t find any. Since I’m dyer, I don’t have a lot of money, and I can’t run anymore, I volunteered to custom dye various fibers and donate them to the group for the weekend. I was so happy and excited to be able to DO something that I was literally tickled pink! Good luck on your run and please don’t be discouraged if you have to walk part of it. I’m sure that all the people who have battled this disease won’t care if you have to walk, they’ll just be happy that you’re out there!
Here’s the link for the program – http://www.castingforrecovery.org
I started runnning at your age (I just turned 54)and was totally hooked after my first 5k. You’ll do great. Enjoy the experience!
That is so cool! You know, I ran my first 5K 4 years ago and I thought I was going to die and every time I would try to run, I would sort of hate it!
I am now training for a half-marathon and I have improved… I still think it’s hard but I’m getting the hang of it and I do enjoy it now!
Good luck… you can do it.
P.S. – In order to get better at running, try doing another cardio type activity …
You know, I used to feel the same way about running – I hated it. It hurt, and I was slow, and it hurt more, and I wanted to be doing anything but running. However…somewhere along the line I went from rowing to doing triathlons (not very well), and I started running regularly, and you know what? It got bearable, and sometimes even enjoyable. Now I go for a run, and it still hurts and I’m still very, very slow, but I can get outside and spend some time in the fresh air, and feel waaaaay better when I’m done then I did before I started. So it can happen.
Good luck on Sunday. You will be awesome!
I have two marathons and 8 half marathons under my belt and I still suck : ) But I love running. You? Maybe not so much, but it sounds like this is about the accomplishment for you and you will do it. Those geniuses the Stantons and Jeff Galloway have saved us all by making walk breaks, not just ok, but good running strategy.
I understand the weight bearing thing, I take a pill every week for osteopaenia, but you know, walking is every bit as good as running and tends to be more enjoyable. So run the CIBC Race for the Cure, wear the ribbon proudly, and then enjoy the walks. Life is too short to do something you don’t love.
I am the same age as you, and started running the race for life, which we hold in June all around the country (I think probably the UK equivalent of your race for cure) 3 years ago when my best friend was diagnosed with cancer. I have never yet managed to run the whole distance, but my best time is 34 minutes (and I’m a little bit proud – though determined that one day I will manage the whole thing – I need it to rain I think!). You will have an amazing, awesome, emotional and uplifting day, and it will probably be the first and last time you kinda enjoy the running! 😉 Good luck.
I recently started running and there are so many days I don’t want want to get off my butt and go out in the cold and rain and yuck to do it, but I do. And I never regret it. I did the coolrunning.com couch to 5k program and it was REALLY good. I just ran my first 10k Sunday and I’m signed up for a half marathon soon. I still can’t believe I’m doing it. Anyway, my point is that if my never-been-athletic butt can get up and do it, anyone can and I’m so proud of you! You’re gonna run a great race!
I ran my first 5K this past spring (at age 44) and I also HATE running. Like you, I would prefer cozy, warm, comfy, etc. etc. But, like you, I know I have to get off my butt and move. 😉 I’m a bit believer in the run/walk program (which is how I trained), and it has kept me injury-free since I started. GOOD LUCK on Sunday – we’ll all be thinking of you!! 😀
Yeah, I know I need to do this stuff too and I have been avoiding it. Go Stephanie, I hope it goes well on Sunday!
you can DOOOO it! (think Rob Schneider)
Steph,
You are amazing. You’re going to do fine. They don’t check to make sure that you’re running Every.Single.Step. So don’t stress about it.
Best of luck!
I started running this year (age 46) and also had my girlie bits removed a while back. I joined the Running Room here in St. John’s (can you say hills) and it’s been fantastic. They reward you after every 10 minutes of running with a full minute of walking! I love it! Good luck! Stick with it – it’s worth it.
Firstly: I am most impressed with your determination and community-mindedness in doing this run. You are a runner and a winner no matter how fast or slow you do the 5k. Well done!
Secondly: That said, I’ve never been a runner myself, even when younger and very fit. My body just isn’t constructed right for that. Another thing you might consider for weightbearing exercise is Tai Chi. It also stretches everything, keeps you balanced and coordinated (or gets you there if you are a klutz to start with), and at a certain level can even provide a medium-level cardio workout. And it’s fun. People smile doing it! 🙂 Oh yeah – you can do it inside, in your own home. No gym to go to, no paraphernalia to mess with. Definitely civilized!
I’m a BC survivor too, so a big thank you! My last bone density scan actually showed an *improvement*. I wanted to avoid the drugs, so I did some research. A suggestion: look up how much calcium a post-menopausal woman needs (some sources say up to 1500mg per day) and make sure that you get it. This takes *lots* of milk/yoghurt and also, probably, calcium supplements. And lots of weights at the gym! And, P.S., I love your blog!
Yarn Harlot, you just keep getting more and more amazing!
You are so inspiring….
(Especially to this vegetarian breast-feeding mama to two little ones, trying to squeeze in as much knitting and spinning as I can while attempting a jog here and there to lose some baby weight……)
I’m sure you can do anything you put your mind to! I’m going to walk a 5k at the end of this month, and I am just hoping not to collapse before the finish line, much less RUN the dang thing!
You have been bitten by the Oregon running bug. From your pics, it looks like you’re in Cannon Beach. As a former Oregonian, now a Texan, I can say that something about OR makes you want to run. I used to run 2 miles a night in the pouring rain! Texans would never do a thing like that. Good luck tomorrow!
I am proud of you!
I just found out yesterday a close family friend was diagnosed with breast cancer.
And i think the runner that passed you might have been my husband.
Two weeks ago, my mother walked her second Survivor’s lap at the opening of the Relay for Life for Cancer Research. I cried for the second year running. After everything she went through, the operation, the chemotherapy, radiotherapy, the worry and the stress, to see her walking arm in arm with the other survivors for another year – seeing most of those we saw last year together again – I wasn’t the only one crying.
You’re not just running to raise money. You’re running for your life, for other people’s lives, people you don’t even know and will never meet.
Thank you and everyone else taking part in Run For A Cure. Your contribution to the cause saved my mother’s life.
Perhaps you should check out Danny Dreyer’s book and web site.
My husband is a runner and really likes his techniques. He also has a book on walking written with his wife, that is more my style.
Since you’re doing your part, I, as the daughter of a cancer victim, am doing mine by sponsoring you.
Now I need to get off my ass and do more. Like run myself next year…
As long as you make it to the finish line vertical (even if on all fours), you’re a winner.
Good on ya!
I’m not a runner either but I train for the Boston half-marathon every year so I can raise money for cancer research. My race is Oct 11th. I’m a mess. Everyone gets nervous and yes, running still sucks for me too. You can do it!
Good luck! You can do it.
I’m SO not a runner (tendinitis prevents it) but my Dad is, so I’ve participated in many a 5k (even a few 10k). I may not be able to run it, but as long as you keep walking forward, you’ll make it through. And you’re going to be able to run most of it, so you’ll be way ahead.
And then the wool and a great since of pride will meet you at home.
Good on ya! You’ll rock it out.
Yes starting slow is key – when I started, I was using a book that said, “Day 1: jog 15 seconds, walk 15 seconds, jog 15 seconds, stop.” Now I can run 5 miles if I’m on a treadmill in front of something diverting on a television… I’m 51, and I figure when I can’t run anymore I’m going to have to learn to swim so that I don’t have to stop eating.
Good luck, you’re going to do so great!
I hate to break it to you, Steph, but you ARE a runner. Just because you need to walk a bit during your run doesn’t matter. When I started running (jogging) I could only manage 1/2 a mile and over 7 or 8 months, I increased to 3 miles (which I believe is just under 5K). Good luck on your run. You’ll do just fine.
Running is very challenging but by extension also very rewarding. Stick with it! And it does get easier, but I have done some marathons, and I still rest in the middle of some of my runs. If walking a bit gets you to go just a little bit further, then its worth it!
Go for it! And thanks for the picture of the running shoes with black socks. 🙂 It was very reassuring.
You go, girl. Steph, you are a runner and you will be just fine during the 5K. Just wait until you cross the finish line!
On why you might already be a runner: http://www.johnbingham.com/penguin.html
You put the shoes on, you do the time, you are a runner… not just someone who runs! More than that, you are an athlete.
The Run for the Cure is an amazing experience. Enjoy it, bring tissues (it’s very emotional to see the survivors and the memorials to loved ones lost), you will be amazed how the excitement will pull you along!
Good on you. Good luck – you will feel great afterwards! I too am a reluctant runner. Running with friends at a pace we can chat makes it MUCH more enjoyable – funnily enough we don’t seem to get much faster!
Good for you! I used to run when I was in high school and I loved it. I need to start again. Good luck on Sunday!
I am 67 and am NOT a runner-a walker, but definitely not a runner. I admire your perseverance in a good cause and wish you well. However, brisk, long walks can do just as much for your fitness level and they’re not so hard on the joints. If you really don’t like it Steph, once this Sunday is over, don’t do it anymore. Life’s too short to continuously do things you don’t enjoy. Find something you like better and don’t feel guilty. I will sponsor you and send encouraging thoughts your way on Sunday. Cheers and I guess we’d better stick to water, Hazel.
You’ll do great, and it’s a nice event to start out with; I’ll be doing it in my area too. I admire your persistence – I have tried running off and on for years, and it’s just not something I can do very well. What I have been doing is power walking with a local group, and I’ll tell you, once you get the form mastered (or an approximation thereof), you can actually keep with runners with less impact on bones and such –
Good luck on Sunday!!
Step, I have been dealing with bone loss for a long time. Finally last winter an article came out in Mended Hearts, and other print editions that Vitamin D – 1000mg daily, helps improve bones.Do try to find current info on Vitamin D and read for yourself. I am the happy recipent of better test results.
Good for you, good for you! It IS hard, but running is hard for everyone so (as a longtime coach and runner) I find it breeds tremendous compassion: the fast ones know exactly what the slow ones are going through, and we’re all in it together.
ANd as I am now 46, complete with grumpy feet and crunchy knees, I have found that 2x week (with ibuprofen) and swimming, walking, or biking in between, works JUST FINE for me.
Stephanie- I’m a long time lurker and LOVE reading your posts. I too am training for a 5K which happens on Nov 7th of this year. I too think running is extremely difficult and wonder how many people make it look almost effortless! I used to dread my weekend runs- but right about the time I started training for the 5K, I found an awesome podcast (podrunner intervals- look it up on iTunes) that has for the first time made my running enjoyable. Give it a try if you decide to keep running in the future- they have training podcasts for 5K, 8K and 10K- LOVE them.
Best of luck this Sunday- thank you for running for a great cause (I have one grandma who is a breast cancer survivor, and I lost my other grandma to breast cancer) Cheers!
Good luck! You go, go, go!
I read something the other day that you might add to your list…
Although your lungs may be up to the run after 3 or 4 months, your connective tissue may take a year or more to catch up.
http://www.stumptuous.com/can-running-actually-help-your-knees
We’re all rooting for you!
Go Stephanie! Focus on the fact that you are running for a great cause.
Some famous cyclist, whose name escapes me, once said “it doesn’t get any easier, you just get faster”. I think he’s right, both for cycling and running. I used to run, but my knees are shot and now I cycle. For both, the hardest part is the mental part–getting up and out the door. Go get ’em!
Go, Stephanie, Go!!!! You can do this!! And go Eddie, what a triumph.
One of the great things about running in a group event Steph is that it MAKES you a better runner. I know it sounds odd, but it really does. You will be running along with all these other wonderful people who are supporting a great cause, and the kms will just fly by. You will be at the finish before you know it, and wonder how you got there. That is how these runs can get really addictive.
Good luck, you’ll be great!
One of the great things about running in a group event Steph is that it MAKES you a better runner. I know it sounds odd, but it really does. You will be running along with all these other wonderful people who are supporting a great cause, and the kms will just fly by. You will be at the finish before you know it, and wonder how you got there. That is how these runs can get really addictive.
Good luck, you’ll be great!
Running in short bursts is likely to make you more fit, not less…and your joints will thank you. 🙂 (So now I’d better get back to MY running…!)
You’ll do well. And congratulations all round!!
I am a 28 year-old breast cancer survivor. Yup, you read that right. I was diagnosed with Stage IIB breast cancer at age 27. Reading your post was like looking in the mirror. I’ve always hated running, but during and after treatments, I wanted something in my life that I thought I could control. I only recently found out that I’m also osteopenic (it’s like a precursor to osteoporosis) so it’s good for me, too. I decided to train for a marathon this year. Injury prevented me from that distance, but this weekend I’ll be running my first half marathon on Sunday – right when you’re doing your 5K! Thanks for running for the cause. And by the way, taking frequent walk breaks while you run is actually a great training method. It keeps your legs fresh and helps prevent injury. I second (or third, or fourth) the call for you to look up the Galloway Method. It rocks, and it’s the only reason I’m doing a half this weekend 🙂
Keep in mind this, which came as a total surprise and revelation to me several years ago when I started running: human beings actually evolved to run. That flew in the face of everything I’d long believed about running being unnatural. Turns out that our ancestors needed to run great distances when they saw the vultures circling in the distance because that meant food — get to the newly dead animal in time, and you can eat and survive. Okay, that’s pretty gross, and all sorts of things in modern life have changed us so that we’re not exactly like our ancestors, but still, running isn’t the crazy thing I used to think it was. And it really does get better. I found adding some weight training and LOTS of stretching helped me a lot — helped avoid injuries. If something started to feel suspicious, it needed to be strengthened individually and stretched a lot. Also, not that it’s helpful to you now, but I hear there’s a really great “couch to 5K” program, and of course, “there’s an app for that” too.
Anyway, best of luck to you! And remember, there’s no shame in walking. It’s a noble activity as well!
Good luck Steph. And if thinking about Eddie Izzard doesn’t help, think about Michael Edwards aka Eddie The Eagle. He sucked, but he competed anyway and became a hero for working his ass off and doing his best.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eddie_the_Eagle
The only difference between a jogger and a runner is a bib number!
Don’t worry about the 10% walking—a lot of coaches and trainers encourage that. I’m training for a half-marathon running for 9 minutes and walking for 1 minute. It’s actually improving my time from when I tried to run the whole thing!
And remember—you don’t have to run 5K. You just have to run one step at a time. When I’m feeling the pain, I just tell myself that old joke about how you eat an elephant: one bite at a time.
Good luck!
The first time I tried to donate,it didn’t work. It DID work the second time, so don’t give up hope if you experience failure first; eventually you succeed(sounds a bit like running to me). Cheers, Hazel.
I definitely second all the Couch to 5K recommendations. I just finished it and am starting all over again to finish just in time for a race in November. Good luck at the race!
You are awesome and fantastic!
You are awesome and fantastic! Can I be you when I grow up? Seriously? 😀
Good luck!!!!
My mom is a breast cancer survivor, and I, too, have a long time love-hate relationship with running which I need to reestablish. I donated for these reasons, and wish you all the best on Sunday
This may be the inspiration I need to get off the couch. I think I’ll go run, in your honor, on Sunday.
I went through the same process this summer. I signed up for the 10k race on the Montreal Marathon as a way to challenge myself, and discovered that running is indeed very hard, and that while you’re doing it, it pretty much sucks.
BUT, when you achieve your goal? It’s totally awesome. You feel great, not just hot and sweaty. You’ve accomplished something monumental.
You’re going to do an amazing job on Sunday, running with a crowd is really motivating. And it’s for such a good cause! Your motives are far nobler than mine, I just wanted to have nice legs and a firm arse.
Good Luck! You can do it!
I’ve been trying to start running for similar reasons, but knees are not happy with this decision so I’m taking a small break. With the state of healthcare in the US I can’t afford a real injury.
I hope the race goes well, hopefully I will be doing one someday.
i’ll never forget my first 5k, and i really should put on my sneakers and prep to run another one. it’s been too long since i stopped running. sending you lots of love and good wishes. you’ll be fine. i knew you were awesome!
Have a great run, Stephanie! I’ve been doing the Couch 2 5k program over the summer and I’m still trying to “love” running. I do know I love when I’m finished running! I’m doing the Race for the Cure in OKC in a few weeks, and I know I’ll have to walk some, but that’s okay. You’ll do great!
A few years ago I remember reading about how Madonna dealt with the hoards of papparazzi lurking outside her New York apartment. She outran them. I got such a charge from that!
I have visceral memories of HATING running in elementary school. I was the slowest in my class and I couldn’t make the whole circuit (no matter how short it was) without walking at least part of it.
So when I started exercising regularly 10 years ago, I wondered if I might get in good enough shape to run a 5K. I did and I ran the same 5K two years in a row (very slowly).
Two pregnancies and two years of breastfeeding later I haven’t exercised much in the past 3 1/2 years, and I can barely run 2 blocks to catch my bus. But you have reminded me that when I’m done sharing my body with my kids I want to get back to doing something to make my body last as long as possible.
For the 3 years that I was “a runner” I never loved the feeling of running, but I did come to love the feeling of energy and accomplishment when my run was over.
Remember to have fun on Sunday! IMO, people watching makes a 5K go a lot faster than a run by yourself. 😉
Good Luck! I know you can do it!
You are always such an inspiration. Good luck on the run. I also suggest reading “Born to Run”. And check out the online videos for the Pose method. Both are good sources for learning to run by landing on the forefoot, not the heal.
Try slowing trotting barefoot down your hallway. Lean forward from your ankles which feels like you might fall on your face. Your feet will catch you. Land your feet, on the forefoot, under your hips instead of out in front of you. Letting gravity do more work makes it easier for you. You may want different shoes if you change methods. Check out Vibram’s Five Fingers, Nike’s Free (that a style not a price), or Vivo’s Barefoot shoes.
Good luck on Sunday!!!!
You. Can. Do. It.
Go, Steph!!
Keep going — one foot in front of the other. Speed doesn’t matter — the belief that you will finish does!
You are an inspiration to me – I’ve recently started trying to run. Your bit about thinking you’re going to die totally resonated with me, because that is what I keep thinking to myself with each step. I currently *run for about a minute then walk for about a minute & a half*, repeat until about to collapse in a weeping heap on the floor. I’ll be mentally cheering you on this Sunday.
I trained all summer for my first 5k, after never having been a runner. I had to stall my training twice: once because of vicious shin splints and another when I fell and twisted my knee and ankle while hiking. I never ever thought I’d be able to finish.
But I did. I went super slowly, it took me a long time, but I went at my own pace and I finished the race. If I can do this, you can. Go you!
“3. Running 5k is a pretty ridiculously easy cakewalk compared to toughing out the treatment for breast cancer.”
I’m in a high risk category for breast cancer. I’m also quite a bit overweight, which I know exacerbates the risk. Up until reading the sentence above I’ve been using the physical problems of being overweight as an excuse to avoid exercise which led to a futile attitude about making dietary changes.
Reading your analogy is like turning on a light, and I thank you for that.
I will think of you on Sunday and will be cheering you on; you’ve just motivated me to get off the couch and try walking again!
Have fun!
And I would add your aunt to the list for your pocket. You go girl!!
Go! Steph! Go! You run, ergo, you are a runner. Do it and make everybody proud!
Hate to break it to you, Steph, but you are a runner (among all the other wonderful things you are). I go out every morning, often in the dark – it’s my solo time and helps keep me sane. I’m not fast; I’m not sleek. But I am a runner. An old Nike ad hangs on my fridge: “A runner is someone who runs; it’s that simple — and that grand. Be that someone. Be YOURSELF. Be your OWN runner.”
peace.
Do you ever stop getting more awesomer?
Seriously, you are the kind of person I aspire to be. I wish you luck and good breathing this Sunday. And I have no doubt that you can do it.
You can do it and if you need motivation, just imagine good ol’ Steve in for a third round of messing with all that is good about Canada. Ought to get you mad enough to keep you going for that last 1K.
You will forever have that love/hate relationship with running but ain’t love grand! I hit the big 60 this year and can relate to the need to get up out of that knitting chair. Loving my body seems to be taking more effort than I ever but it is worth it! You inspired me to get out the ‘plastic’ and make a donation and get out door and do my own footwork! Thanks Steph you always inspire us to good things!
Good luck!
On August 15 I ran my very first 5k. I’m not a runner. I don’t think I had run more than two blocks before I started training for the thing. But my fiance is a runner and there was no way he was going to do things that I couldn’t do too (well, at least once anyway). So, I trained and trained. I felt like I wasn’t getting anywhere. I thought I was in big trouble when race day actually came.
But you know what? The race was awesome! It was so much fun! Running in a big group of people provides so much more motivation and is much more interesting than training by yourself. About halfway through the race I realized I had all this energy and I finished the race but running full speed ahead.
So, good luck! I’m sure it’ll be awesome.
I live with metastatic breast cancer. I am also a knitter and a big fan of your blog.
I am also a runner.
In 2000, I ran a half-marathon. In 10 minute increments. I ran ten minutes and then walked one over and over. I don’t think this in any way cheapened my achievement. And I still run that way.
Last year, I did the Run for the Cure (in 10 min increments) and it was so much fun. I ran faster and more easily than I ever did in training. The Run for the Cure has a great atmosphere. Take the time to enjoy yourself. It will be fun, I promise.
And Stephanie? Thank you.
Hope you have a great run, and don’t hurt yourself. I am trying to force myself to get back into my daily walking habit, so I hear you! Tried to donate but the site is too busy right now, 10:30 AM EST, will try again later.
Oh Stephanie…so brave. I tried running years ago. As my dad drove me home from uni for the summer I stupidly said “I think I’d like to start running this summer” and did we drive straight home? No. We drove straight to the Running Room where I became a hesitant owner of a beautiful pair of New Balance runners. Did these cost a lot? Yes. Were they comfy? Oh yes. Did they make my 34″ inseam legs look even longer? Yes yes yes. Did I become Flo Jo? No. No no no no no. The’re still almost perfectly white. Running is frigging hard. No one ever tells you how hard it is. They just tell you how rewarding it is (lies) and wonderful (big fat lies) and how it doesn’t take long to get good at (pants bursting into flames). Needless to say, Usain Bolt has nothing to worry about with me. My dad weeps and gives me the “I should have just lit the money on fire” speech everytime he sees them. Maybe I’ll try again. In the spring. Maybe.
But if I do, I’m dressing like an action transvestite. Ciao!!
Former couch potato here, turned runner and triathlete. Stick with it Steph. Some days are hard and don’t feel good mentally or physically. However, every now and again you will have a day when everything aligns and the run is brilliant, even if you are not fast. It’s those days that make you stick with it when you’re achy and tired or when the weather is crappy.
Oh, and you’re right about your Osteoporosis risk factors, but yoga can help you with strength and balance, which are important as us 41 year olds progress into our dotage years:) You should add either more yoga that involves arm/back/ab strength or add in weights. Osteoporosis risk can be reduced by putting stress on your bones, you’re not stressing your upper body when you knit.
Steph…..Good luck with the running…..I started doing a 2 mile a day walk a couple weeks ago……No running here…….and wait till your boobs are 53,lol! Mine are closing in on 54……Amy
RUNNING IS HARD. You are terrific and will be awesome! It took me two years of trying, but last year I ran my first 5k. The race atmosphere is so much fun and adrenaline will carry you! GOOD LUCK!
Yeah, I’m running too, and osteoporosis is a big reason for it. Hang in there … it gets easier. Though maybe never easy! FYI, though I haven’t tried it, my trainer suggests Chi Running (www.chirunning.com/) for pain avoidance and easier execution. I think there are youtube videos too…
you go girl….my son is in the Navy….he’s a submariner….when he returns from sea he has to run a 5k….even though that seems ridiculous to me because how can you practice that on a sub?….but never mind….he has the body type that has heavier, short legs….running that 5k was so difficult for him when he first started doing it….until he discovered that if he worked on his core muscles….a lot….the running became a lot easier….so, pretty much, the stronger your core is the easier it is to lift your legs….good luck….
You can do it! It’s amazing how far the excitement and adrenaline of a race can take you. I’m walking 60 miles over 3 days for Breast Cancer and I’m nervous too, but I’ve heard all the camaraderie and encouragement also carries you along. And, we’re helping a very good cause. Good luck!!
I have always been of the “don’t run unless a big dog is chasing you” school of thought, but you are an inspiration, Steph. I know you can do it. And have you seen the pictures of Eddie Izzard’s toes during his runs? I’m pretty sure a 5K won’t do that to you, so that’s another plus. I’ll be thinking of you and Aunt Julie on Sunday.
I almost fell off my chair on the first line of your post. I thought someone had “body snatched” our Harlot! But, seriously, good luck to you. You might want to wear a hat with a brim to keep any stray raindrops off your glasses.
Believe that you will do it and you will. Your adrenaline will get you that 10% you need to run to the finish. Prayers ascending for your noble and thoughtful efforts.
The fact that you’re doing this for your aunt more than makes up for the suckage. You walk when you need to, kid.
I followed Eddie’s tweets during that run. It was amazing, lost toenails and all.
Go Steph! You will do great and it will be a lot of fun.
“No Need For Speed” by John Bingham. Read.This.
You are a total inspiration. I have issues running more than a mile so 5K is no small feat. I wish you the best of luck.
Been lurking a while. Love your blog!
I second the person who said you should read “Born to Run” http://www.amazon.com/Born-Run-Hidden-Superathletes-Greatest/dp/0307266303
and you should also read ‘Body, Mind, & Sport by John Douillard http://www.amazon.com/Body-Mind-Sport-Mind-Body-Lifelong/dp/0609807897/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1254497244&sr=1-3
Both of these blew my mind about exercise in general and running specifically.
You can do it! And when you get home you can knit yourself a pinney to attach your number to for the next one.
Very cool that you’re doing race for the cure. Yay for breast cancer research!!
But, if you hate running, have you considered weight lifting instead? It’s still good for you, and I love weight lifting even though I would rather shoot myself in the foot than run.
Stephanie, you ARE a runner!! And this Sunday, you’ll be doing more than 90% of the population (who will rise from their bed and commute to a couch to channel surf all day), so even if it takes you HOURS to complete the 5k — which it won’t — you’re still better off than everyone who didn’t even try.
Read John Bingham’s Penguin Chronicles. You’ll find there are a lot more ‘back of the pack’-ers than the 2% body fat folks. Believe me, I know. 10 years ago I couldn’t run to my mailbox. Now I’ve completed two marathons and done the Toronto half marathon. I’m slower than a turtle in peanut butter, but I still get out there and do it!
You GO, girl! Great event, great cause and hey, you’ll get a t-shirt!
You’re doing an awesome thing. I hated running before I started doing it, never really got to a point where I *loved* it and I managed to finish (s-l-o-w-l-y) a marathon- I think mostly because I was doing it to raise money for an AIDS foundation. You might be slow, and the run might even kinda suck, but you’re going to feel amazing when you cross the finish line. Especially when you’re doing it for such a great reason.
I’ll be cheering you on Sunday–I donated a bit, but not as much as I wish I could. All our charity dollars is going to the No on One campaign in Maine right now.
Best wishes!
You have this in you and can do it! And it is OK to walk!
Your post resonated with me so much. I made many of the same “I suck” comments, and then I got injured as well. Once I got healthy, I re-evaluated my goals, started following Jeff Galloway’s methods (love the 2:1 intervals), and have 3 half marathons under my belt this year and am training for my first full. As many others have said, if I can do it, there’s no reason others can’t.
I’ve done a Race for the Cure before and think the energy in it will really help pull you through. Can’t wait to read about it.
Go Stephanie! I am on the couch-to-5K plan and next week will finally reach the 5k mark. I still hate it, but am feeling more and more like a runner anyhow. Look what we can do! 🙂
Keep working! Bicycling is my activity of choice, and I did a fundraiser this summer where I was one of 4 riders. Definitely the weakest link… but it was a totally awesome week. My personal best improved. I will never be as strong or fast as those guys, but I can be better today than I was yesterday. Diane and saranlap of the comments mentioned an author, John “the penguin” Bingham. I just found his books this week and his philosophy really resonates with me. I will never have any body to work with other than the one I am living with right now, and ignoring it won’t improve it!
Your family will appreciate your effort to support the cause, too.
Oh Stephanie, I’m 45 net month and did the same thing this year. I was a violinist all my childhood and a knitter for all my adulthood. And I ran my first 5k last november, and then went insane and joined a triathlon training class (I had to look up the word triathlon on Wikipedia, no joke) and swam, biked and ran for 3 months and then entered my first race in April. A life enhancing experience! I am so proud of you and relieved that I am not the only one to take up such insane activity later in life. YOU WILL LOVE IT. have a great time.
Doing something on purpose where stopping is the big lure? Not on my list.
Good luck on Sunday. I’ve tried several times to become a “runner” and haven’t succeeded yet. But then, it took me about 6 tries to become a “knitter”, and I’m getting pretty good at it! Maybe I’ll give running another chance.
I heard about Eddie Izzard doing all those marathons on BBC – amazing! No one believed me when I told them; they all thought I must be mistaken either about the person or the number of miles he ran.
It takes a long time to reverse years of sedentary life. Keep at it! I started at age 44 (now 51) and had to run/walk for years before I felt like I wanted to run continuously all the time. Run/walk is natural, healthful and gentle on the body. I wish you best success (and am inviting you to join my running/knitting friends on the Ravelry forum called Running With Sharp Objects). Best wishes!
I did the 3-Day walk down here in San Diego for my mom a couple years ago. It is a great feeling. Have fun!
Go Stephanie! Best of luck on Sunday — not that you’ll need it. In general, race day is such a fun experience. Add to this the great cause and you will no doubt be buoyed but the crowd and your fellow runners. You’ll find the 5k to be easy — it’s the solitude of training that is harder. Have fun!
Thanks for the inspiration Steph. I keep meaning to get on the treadmill not just to loose a few pounds but because my mom is a diabetic-and I had gestational diabetes twice and I am a prime candidate for the Big D myself.
In solidarity with you I pledge to dust off my treadmill and use it on Sunday. I’ll report back.
Hopefully you will read this comment Steph. You have written books which some of us will never be able to do. Don’t forget you just survived organizing and coordinating the Sock Summit (major feat!). Running is just another goal you will accomplish. RE. running/walking – there is such a technique which Jeff Galloway has written about. I am in a running group that practices this technique and it works. You run your pace for 3 minutes then walk 1 minute. The trick is finding out what your correct pace is. I am not a runner either but with this technique, I ran a half marathon (13.1 miles) and a marathon (26.2 miles). Hope this helps! And best of luck on Sunday! I know you can do it!
Sending you hugs, love, and epsom salts.
After Sunday, SWIM – you can swim with weights on your ankles and wrists to add weight bearing work. I ran like the wind as a kid; did track through college – everyone used to say, “NICE girls walk, they don’t RUN.” Heck with that. Swim – nice warm water pool, cozy, hot showers, quiet under water, sweating goes away rather unnoticed. Yeah – swim.
I can’t wait to take your future class “running for efficiency”
Hi Stephanie. I had to come out of lurking to comment, because I’m also running my first event on the 12th and I know just how you feel. I love your list — may have to steal the idea. No matter how much of the 5k you walk or run, the point is that you’re out there, and you’re determined to do something you find hard. Way to go!
Way to go. I am guessing that your run was on the Oregon coast or are you back in Canada? Oregon Coast usually means cold and wet no matter what! 🙂
It’s my little guys 7th birthday on October 4th so, as I eat Chocolate cake, I will be thinking of you and your admirable run. After eating a piece of cake I will feel the need for at least a walk.
Way to go!
Woo hoo! You can do it!
You’re right, running never really gets easy, it’s just that you come to enjoy the discomfort because you feel so great when you stop.
Also, run really slow and you’ll have a good chance of running the full 5k.
Also, 41 is young 🙂
Damn right Eddie Izzard! Thinking to self: Shit. Now two of my favorite people (who I don’t know personally) are running for good causes. Time to dust off my running shoes, call up my marathoner friend, and go for a run…
Harlot, you are awesomesauce.
Pigs will fly before I run again. I really wish I like running, it’s free, you can do it practically anywhere, anytime. I just don’t like it. I hate sweating, it hurts etc. I suspect that you feel the same way so I am waaaay impressed that you continue. Good luck on Sunday. You’ll be fine. Walk when you want and enjoy the group…I’ll be thinking about you.
u go girl.
Dear Harlot,
You’ll do great! As others have suggested, the key to this race is to start *slowly*. It’s really tempting to go out too fast, especially in your first race, when all that adrenaline is flowing.
Here in San Francisco, there’s a running club called Dolphin South End. Their slogan – available on T-shirts – is “Start slow and then taper off.” My credo exactly!
In fact, I’d extend this thought to your running in general: if after months of running, you’re still walking through 10 percent of your 5K route, *you are running too fast.* Slow down to a pace at which you could carry on an ordinary conversation. Don’t worry if this seems ridiculously slow. You’ll speed up as you keep training.
These words of advice come from an ancient (57-year-old), untalented runner who gets great pleasure from plodding around in the outdoors – and from all your work!
You’re an inspiration!
(Too bad one can’t knit while running.)
I can only knit. I’ll try walking for charity.
Steph, I read your Yarn Harlot every day and look forward to your cool comments always. I can’t run any longer due to physical disabilities but now I am using a rollator to get around and then I will progress to a cane. I want to get back into walking my dog again and that is my goal at the moment. Good luck with your 5K and I know you can do it.
you’re my hero. i used to love running, when i was in high school. now, i slog through it, sucking, hoping that i get better. i always felt it was just me. thank you, for being a runner. and a real person. you just made my day 🙂 good luck on sunday – i’ll be sening positive thoughts your way.
Ok, proof positive that running is bad for you. Might be a good cause, but the actual running is not good for you at all! Does it mean as much if I watch YOU running?
Stephanie – run intervals to prevent injury, and go farther! I started with four minutes running/1 minute walking intervals, and went from 1/2 a mile to running a 10K. My initial speed was a mile in 13 minutes; less than a year later I am running a mile in under 10 minutes.
Many famous marathoners chose to run this way – there’s no shame in it! Plus, if you build walking into your runs before you get tired, starting up again is a breeze.
I used to hate running. NOW I LOVE IT!
Good on you!! I am just starting the Couch to 5k (c25k). My mom had a double mastectomy 28 years ago and is still cancer free. I think the breast cancer run is such a good cause. We do the Mothers Day Susan G Komen Walk for the Cure in Sacramento every year. Best of luck to you!!
I donated for all the women I care for who are survivors and those who are not but who fought the good fight.
First, Happy Anniversary. Second, best of luck on Sunday. Racing for the Cure is a noble thing. And though you may not run every single step of the race, you ARE a runner. And even if you have to crawl across the finish line, you’re a winner for being brave enough to step up to the challenge.
My first 5k was the hardest/scariest thing to do, but once I finished it, I couldn’t wait to do another one and beat my time in that race. It ended up being one of the most enjoyable things I’ve done and I just seem to keep signing up for more! It’s like another addiction! (And seriously…I suck as a runner and it doesn’t even matter…it’s still great!)
How bout this … there are no “beginners” (cause where is the line for when we’re not still beginners??); we’re only New, new knitters, new runners, etc. Then once we’ve done that thing for a little while, we’re no longer “new”. We ARE. You ARE my dear! You’ll have wings on your heels on Sunday – a 5k has soooooo much group energy you may just run every last step of it!
Congratulations, Steph. Just in case that it turns out you are not a runner, you have many options to keep the osteoporosis at bay. I have never been a runner, but a hiker (who needs a stairclimber when there is a hill, who needs a treadmill when there is a trail). And a dancer–if you can find a West African dance class in your neighborhood, try it out. It’s the best workout I’ve ever found, and the drums are a natural encouragement “push on through” agent!
I’m doing it too!!!! I signed up for the Toronto run on Thursday morning and have started raising a bit of money since then.
I only started running about two months ago, and even then it was sort of half-hearted. I then moved to Toronto in September and in order to help get me through a rather tough time, I’ve been running almost every morning, just for 15-20 minutes to try and get my day started.
I thought it would be something good to do, this run for the cure, but I’m really nervous too. I don’t even know where Nathan Phillips Square is!! I feel weird doing something like this all alone, but a friend pointed out that I probably couldn’t be less alone than I am when I’m running with thousands of other people all toward the same goal.
And I walk for at least 20% of my runs usually, so no worries!! I’ll be there with you!
Steph, you are already a runner. And you’ve already crossed a finish line just be stepping up [literally and figuratively] do to this run in honor of your Aunt. Go for it. Have a great time and just know that it will be marvelous…running, walking, the whole thing!
You can do it!! I didn’t run then I decided to do a marathon.
I ran for two minutes and walked for two minutes for seven hours and no one in the world can ever say I didn’t run a marathon.
You’re awesome, have a great time and remember to go at the speed of fun!
My husband is a runner. He’s been doing it for a long time. He is not a fast runner. He does not look like a runner – he is not the 2% body fat guy, he doesn’t have the gadgets. He has to walk sometimes too. He also gets scared before a race. He has his little talismans, just like your little piece of paper – only in his case it is a handknit hat with the number 42 embroidered on the front, (42 is the number of kms in a marathon for those who are wondering) and a smiley face that I draw on his hand before every race. Were he here and not at work he would tell you how to finish – you just put one foot in front of the other; one step at a time. It’s the same way you manage that crazy big knitting project – one stitch at a time.
Stephanie, Don’t worry about sucking at running. Some years back, I ran with friends and completed several 5K and 10K races. It was the year of the amazing Olympics that featured Florence Joiner Kersey and Jackie Kersey and my dear husband commented that the world now had “FloJo and SlowJo” and he was absolutely correct. My running friends and I used a schedule of five workouts per week. Two were easy; two were medium and one was a long hard one. I couldn’t run a block when I started and this schedule got me to a l0K. Many of the beginning workouts were combinations of walk/run. Long and hard for the first week was running three one-minute intervals during a 30-minute walk. So, as someone has already said, you are a runner and you’re stepping up in a wonderful way. Jo
Stephanie,
Before you blow out your ankles and knees, please check out http://www.stumptuous.com. It’s all about women’s strength training, i.e, lifting weights. I’m 51: last year my zippy metabolism was but a faint memory, my formerly hourglass shape had morphed into that of a bratwurst, my blood pressure was through the roof and I weighed what NO ONE 5’4″ and small-boned should weigh. I lift weights 3 or 4 times a week, alternating with walking on a treadmill. I’ve lost 25 lbs., slowly and calmly. Just last week, I zipped up a pair of jeans that had NEVER fit me.
Krista Scott-Dixon runs stumptuous, and she’s in Toronto. Please check it out.
beginning runner over here in Sutton QC.
this week, one of the mothers in our (small) community lost her fight with breast cancer. am hating cancer quite a lot this week, as i think of her 2 young, sweet boys and their dad. i think this is an extremely good cause, and (for now) such walks/runs are my way of feeling that i can do something, anything… have a great run on Sunday. I’ll be thinking of you, of my mum (breast cancer survivor) and of Annie.
I started running a year and a half ago, I was going to turn 50 and a friend asked me to do a 5K, I figured it was now or never, and got off the couch! I couldn’t even run from one mailbox to the next when I started, and next weekend we are doing our 2nd 1/2 marathon! So, just keep going! Every time I’m out it still hurts, but I feel so much better about myself, it is all worth it.
Congrats on your first race!
Remember all those great things you said about your daughter when she did the bike ride? Don’t the same comments apply to you on the 4th?
Plus, the Race for the Cure 5K is more of an event than a run. You will enjoy the fact that this many unrelated people showed up to support it. And the survivors…and those impacted by breast cancer…will appreciate your effort.
So who gives a fig about how fast you actually complete the course?
How many of the really fast ones could actually produce a garment to run in????
Been there, done that…and I am not one of those that finishes (or even starts!) at the front of the pack!
Aging and ailments happen to the best of us. Even knitters. To get the most out of weight bearing exercise, alternate running or fast walking with lifting weights. And take your calcium pills. Good luck on the 4th. With your determination I’m sure that you’ll do just fine.
Dear Steph,
Listen to me very carefully. Remember what I say. Do exactly what I say. if you don’t, you’ll say to yourself, “Darn, Tom told me that and I forgot!”
Don’t run at all the day before the 5K. YOU CAN STRETCH OR DO YOGA BUT DO NOT RUN.
Don’t eat before the race. unless there is a freak heat wave, try not to drink. You don’t want to be carrying extra weight internally or externally. Keep clothing to a bare minimum and what you do wear needs to be light.
You’ll have so much adrenalin pumping in you at the start of the race that you are going to want to take off like a rabbit. It is impossible to resist on your own so you need to have a veteran running partner who will pace you. Ask people before hand what pace they keep and if they would be kind enough to pace you. Odds are their first race consisted of one 4 minute mile followed by a 45 minute 2.1 mile crawl, so they’ll know exactly what you’re talking about.
have a song in your head that provides your running rhythm. It is your mantra. mine is, “I’ve got the Music In Me” by Elton John and Kiki Dee.
Keep your eyes focussed on a point 20 feet ahead of you. That has your throat fully open so you are not restricting your air intake.
Sometimes breaking stride is unavoidable, puddles, potholes, whatever, but it is always dangerous and to be avoided.
Everything needs to be moving in a forward direction. When you throw your hands throw them forward not across your body.
When you see a hill coming breath deeply in your approach, so that you have an excess of oxygen in your blood when the hill tries to knock you into deficit.
your objective should simply be to finish the race. Don’t worry if someone else runs it faster than you. That has nothing to do with you.
After you cross the finish line you will have had a delightful time chatting with your partner and you will say to him or her, “I can’t believe that was 5K! That was the shortest 5K I’ve ever run!” your partner will laugh.
The adrenalin from excitement will have you, “Fired up. Ready to go.”
you’re a winner, Steph, always have been always will be.
This post made me smile hard — I used to run a lot in high school and college, until a major chronic injury kept me from running much at all. I’ve been training to run a half-marathon this Sunday, and believe me — running is still hard, but I’ve learned why I enjoy it all over again. You’re absolutely a runner!! Sometimes it’s still hard, and sometimes it sucks, but sometimes, sometimes, sometimes it is just so sweet!
Good luck on Sunday — I’ll be thinking of you while I run, too!
You amaze me! Go Harlot. I made a small donation – it’s all I can afford at this time. I will be thinking of you Sunday
Oh my. I, too, am a quite short, small-framed white woman with a family history of osteoporosis, including a grandmother who was so bent she could not stand straight. I feel your fear, deeply. Only… I’m not 41 but 59 and I don’t think running is in the future for this slightly arthritic old lady. Walking, maybe.
May your Oct. 4th run give you and your Aunt Julie great satisfaction. Just having you volunteer has pleased her hugely, I’m sure.
Good luck! And don’t be afraid to call yourself to call yourself a runner already… anyone who gets outsides and runs, no matter the speed or distance, is a runner. A tip from a fellow knitter/runner: when I’m training and trying to build up to a distance, I use interval training. Which means I walk for minute, run for a set number of minutes (usually 3,5, or 7 minutes-pick one and stick with it for each run) then walk for a minute. You repeat the run-walk intervals the whole run. The theory is, by making sure you walk before you get tired you can keep going at a faster pace for a longer time on your running intervals. I’ve found it very helpful, so I thought I’d share.
You’ll be fine. Just fine. First of all, there will be so many people and the road will be so crowded that no one will be running for several minutes at the start except the crazies in the very front, and then plenty of folks will be taking breathers later. You’ll love it – you’ll get high on the doing-good fumes and the healthy-people fumes and you won’t notice much of anything else. Make friends with the people around you and you’ll all encourage each other. Try not to step on anyone or let anyone step on you, but it happens. And as slow as you say you are, run a click or two slower than that, but steadily. Tortoises rule!
The poster above me has good advice. I’d add to that eat a carb-heavy meal the night before like pasta – it does help. And if you feel as though you’ll flag energywise during the run, carry a wee butt-pack with Tootsie Rolls or if you prefer, one of those scientific gel goop things. Me, I’ve done three NYC Marathons on Tootsie Rolls. Plus the name fits – good for your feet!
You’ll ace it, Ace. Piece o’ cake. And be sure to have one later to celebrate.
Stephanie–I applaud you. I am not a runner, but my husband is. He loves it(sick man)but after years and years of running he was having a lot of pain. Then he bought a book called Chi Running (I have the Chi Walking book) and it changed his life. No more pain and much more enjoyment in his runs. I can’t say enough about it. Chi walking is pretty great too.
Good luck on Sunday.
You’re an amazing inspiration to us all! And just a plain ol’ Bada$$. You GO, Steph!
I second Molly’s post: Check out the Galloway method. My uncle and brother run multiple marathons every year, and they periodically stop to walk – it’s good for your body, and you won’t be in nearly as much pain the day after a long run. It makes running suck a lot less – honest.
Good Luck!
I did the 5k run for cancer research over here a few years ago, and all i got was encouragement from the other runners – and you should definately take a walking break every 10 miutes or so. I hate running, or even jogging on my own, but in that group of people, all running for the same thing, it’s a wonderful atmosphere.
Go Harlot!!!
Thanks… from a Breast Cancer Survivor! (2004 I am forever 36. I just live longer.)
You don’t have to love running. That was a revelation to me. I live in Boulder, Colorado, arguably the endurance sports capital of the world. So I tried really hard to love running, and I never did even though I worked at it for a long time. It always sucked, and I always hurt (and not in a good way). Then I changed tactics and tried something else, and I loved it. Now I’m the fittest and strongest I’ve ever been in my whole life and I feel so empowered and healthy. If you’re curious you can drop me an email or check out my blog – it’s all there in excruciating, navel-gazing detail. Or if not, just know that there are other ways. Some people love running, and great for them. It doesn’t mean you have to love it too. It is not the holy grail of fitness.
That said, challenging yourself to do a run (especially for a good cause) is totally different, and totally worth it. Go into it with an attitude to do your best and not be too hard on yourself. No one will care if you are slow or have to walk a little. Best of luck!
Luck! Luck! Luck! Three times is even luckier. Your motivational reasons are all the right ones. Make sure your shorts have a pocket for that list, so you can read it if you slow down to walk part of the way. Participating in Race for the Cure is equally powerful whether you run, walk or crawl. Good for you for being a part of it!
Oh, and you mean knitting isn’t a weight-bearing, high-impact exercise? What if I use size 13 needles?
I believe a very inspiring knitter and writer (named Steph, you may have heard of her) wrote that if you knit, you are a knitter. You don’t have to be talented or clever or experienced. I’d add that you probably don’t even have to like it. (I’m sure there are a number of Latvian girls who knit circles around the rest of us while they would rather do something else.) The act of knitting makes you a knitter. I believe the same is true of running. So… Congrats! You’re a runner.
Dear Harlot, I really have to warn you: running is not healthy and man was not developed to run. We can run, of course, but only for short distances, then we have to take a breather. And certainly not every day. You don’t suppose for a moment that man met a running prey in the woods every day, do you? That’s what you have to think about. Women ran even less, because they had to hold their child or to care for it in the hut or the cave or whatever. As you have noticed yourself, you got this fracture, and that was meant to be a warning. My whole family-in-law runs, my husband and I never did, and they have all kinds of aches and pains: their backs, their knees, their hips, all gone. Really all that running and jogging is an unhealthy hype. I would say that you are active enough, and just walking and riding your bike is enough. By the way, I am nearly 70 years old and I have never run for one minute, but I ride my bike and I work in my allotment etc., and that should be enough. Most of the time I feel fine. I love your blog, so keep up the good work, Leonie
I suppose skipping breakfast depends on what time you eat breakfast, or how long before the race it is.
You are probably aware that mother nature designed us so vomit and empty our bowels when we need to run, right? Like when a lion starts chasing us. Not loading up simply provides a more hygienic experience. You can eat lots of “Good on me” rewards afterward
I jog virtually every morning and have done so for years. It’s not always easy to get motivated and it’s harder on some days than others.
What helps me is that I use the time to day dream. I solve tricky work issues, think about projects I am knitting or want to knit, and work on my own character issues (like why can I be a petty person – where does this come from?). The more I lose myself in my thoughts, the faster the time passes. Hope this helps.
You are so going to kick that 5k’s @#*!!!
My favorite thing about races is how supportive and positive the running community treats each other. You will really love it. BTW I would be happy to teach you a very “bone building” yoga practice the next time you are in FL. It will also help your running.
Have fun!!!
You can do it, Stephanie!!! I’m 43 and I started running a year ago. Most days I hate it and feel like I’m dying. But I love it when I’m finished. I am slow. I plod. I ran my first 5k a few weeks ago. It was a midnight 5k in the rain. I did it non-stop. On Oct. 17th I’m running in a breast cancer 5k in honor of my friend’s 43 year old daughter who is fighting breast cancer. She found out this week she has liver and lung metastasis. She’s my age. It’s scary. I can endure the run for her sake.
Good luck, Stephanie. You’re doing the right thing.
When I started running two years ago, I was a slow runner and it was difficult. But if you keep going at your own speed, you will progress. I’m still slow (people who staretd running after me are much faster…) but now I’m training for my first half-marathon in Ottawa 2010. I don’t look like a runner, my extra pounds don’t help me, but I still like it.
You’ll be great the run! And don’t forget, take your time and smile!
Best of luck on the 5K, I’m running my first one ever on Halloween!
You will have a wonderful run. Remember–it’s jut one foot in front of the other and walking is just really slow running. You might want to find your bra and wear it for the run.
My dad loved to run the San Francisco Bay to Breakers every year. Even though I am definitely not a runner, I survived the ordeal 3 or 4 times. One year I actually beat both my dad and runner brother because we got separated at the start, I thought they were in front of me, and I didn’t want to be the one who made my husband late for his softball game that afternoon. They thought I was nuts for not training by running. Like now, I do an hour-long aerobic dance class (which I enjoy and wouldn’t miss) and I still can’t stand running. So far the bones are hanging in there!
Best of luck to you in the run, and well done to have kept on running!
You’re in excellent company with the walk-breaks: fancy people call them “intervals” and that makes it officially okay. Intervals are like knitting a garter stitch baby blanket after making an Orenburg lace shawl!
I used to do track in high school. I was a sprinter because you run as fast as you can and then stop, but they still made us run long distances (for conditioning or torture…I’m not sure which). After a while it dawned on me that I hated running and nothing on earth was going to change that. I accepted that fact, quit track and moved on. Life is too short to do exercise you hate.
Good luck!
When I read your post, it reminded me of when I started running. I couldn’t run once around the track at Hart House (1/11 of a km) when I started, but I signed up with a friend for the St. Patrick’s Day 5K anyway. I trained diligently for the race, but every time I ran, it was hard and I didn’t really feel like I was getting any better. But I kept doing it anyway. I can tell you that after 8 years of running, it gets much better. It’s not always easier, but it is definitely more enjoyable.
I was worried I wouldn’t finish that first race, but before it started, I had the chance to listen to John Stanton speak. His advice to us newbies was to finish the race on our feet and to have fun. It’s cheesy, I know, but you will end up meeting some pretty great people during those 5 kilometers. Besides there are so many people running the Run for the Cure that you will be packed like sardines, unable to really run, for most of it. Let me put it this way, The Run for the Cure isn’t about your finishing time. It truly is a fun run.
You are going to do great on Sunday!!!
(Are you going to wear a costume?)
Thanks, Steph. You’ve put a lot of things into words that I’ve been thinking through as well. I’m 41, and I ran for 1.5 year, had to stop when a little bone in my foot acted up. Now I’m trying again and again to get back into the swing of it. The aging thing, though, doesn’t have any trouble staying in the swing of things darn it all.
Running is hard and I definitely never liked it, but it is easier to keep doing it again the next time and the next time if you don’t break the chain and stop. Good luck to you. To all of us.
I know running’s not for everyone (just like I don’t care for swimming), but for me it’s like the elixir of life and the fountain of youth. I find I have at least one Brilliant Thought during each run and credit it to the increased oxygen flow to the brain. The energy I feel afterward is worth it.
Ah Stephanie – you want to walk between intervals of running. I’m 55, have osteoporosis, and run 5k four times a week by running 2 min, walking 30 sec, running 2 min, etc. In this way, I prevent injury (been there) and hope to keep running forever. Jeff Galloway is the one behind the run-walk method. See his “Galloway’s Book on Running” for a thorough explanation. Timex even makes a watch that beeps the intervals (Sleek Fitness Tracker). Allow yourself to walk periodically during your race. You’ll feel better and may find that your time is actually better than when you have run continuously. Now, if you find that you really hate running, you can still get the benefit of impact (for osteoporosis prevention) by jumping in place (just takes a minute). Miriam E. Nelson describes how in her book “Strong Women, Strong Bones.” I wish you luck and admire your determination.
Eddie Izzard ran past our house just north of Liverpool and we got to see him & say “Go Eddie Go!” We made a big banner to attract him across the road. He was really sweet, and had hardly broken a sweat (I think he’d only just started up again after lunch…) and was happy to have his pic taken with Lily (who knows him as The Running Man – she’s 5, so hasn’t experienced much of his material)(although I think she may be ready for the Noah’s Ark/Evil Ducks routine)(although as a good mother-of-catholic-child probably shouldn’t be promoting such an irreverend view of the bible – what would Fr Godric say?!)(but I digress…)
Anyway! We followed Eddie on Twitter and cheered him along. We’ll do the same for you – hardly worth tweeting _during_ your run, but still fabulous effort all the same…
You can do it!! And it’s totally ok if you walk a little bit in between running. About a year ago I ran my first 5k and thought I was going to die by the time I finished because I hadn’t trained enough. At that time I thought people who did half marathons were crazy, much less full marathons. Well, at the same race this year I’m signed up for the half marathon. Give it time, and it will grow on you, promise!
You are going to do great! The Race for the Cure was my first (and only) race. I ran it when I was a new runner. It provided me with a training goal, and I was so happy to run for my mum who survived breast cancer.
That day carries so many wonderful memories – not of the run, that sucked. I did run the whole course without stopping even once to walk, but I was so slow there were WALKERS passing me!!! But the rest of it was wonderful. Whole families take the course, there are people along the way who cheer you on and near the end give you a cup of water (and they pick up after you!). It is incredibly moving to see survivors and the families of those who died before a cure could be found mingling, remembering and supporting each other.
I’ll never forget that day – not because it was my first race. I’ll always remember that for that race my running was a benefit for someone else.
Have a wonderful race – you are running for Joe’s aunt, my mum, and all the women who have survived, those who haven’t and those who are at risk. I just know you’ll have wings on your feet!
Well geez, Steph, Eddie Izzard has great legs! This could happen to you if it hasn’t already! More power to you woman!
If I didn’t have these skinny hereditary chicken legs, I could hope for that kind of muscle!
Luck!
Good luck! I highly recommend reading the book Born to Run, I found it so inspirational, I have always wanted to be a runner and never could figure it out. Now I think I’ve got it and it’s awesome, even if I still run, as my manthing says, like a chicken!
I am a huge Eddie Izzard fan and I’ve been marvelling at his remarkable achievement. Brilliant, funny, globally-minded…what’s not to love? The lipstick and heels are just a bonus! I just popped over and made a small donation to suppport your run. You’re pretty inspirational yourself!
Wow.
Wow….
Just Wow.
Down here at comment 350-plus, I haven’t yet read everyone else’s remarks, but here’s one I hope you don’t miss:
WALKING IS WEIGHT-BEARING EXERCISE.
I’ve got ten years on you (and am petite and fair-skinned Celtic, risk factors for osteoporosis as you know), but my bone-density scans (two of ’em in the past six years) say I have “the bones of a 20-year-old”, to quote my doctor. That’s from walking and some easy jogging, but no big-deal running, at least 35 minutes a day, five days or more a week over the past 25 years.
Wouldn’t jumping jacks work just as well? And then you could exercise in your own home, not risking public collapse. That would be a serious consideration for me.
Just as I am frequently reminded by you, when I try to learn new knitting things, that there are really no knitting police, I would humbly like to remind you that there are no running police either. You’re doing this for 2 noble causes: cancer and your own wonderful self. Give it your best shot and be happy with whatever happens. Good on you!
I really wish I had known about this whole thing sooner, because there is this wonderful thing on the web called “The Couch to 5K Running Plan” and I did it when I was 37 and am still running. (I’m 40.) It’s a very detailed plan to get you to build up your strength without hurting yourself. I believe the name of the website is Cool Runnings.
Anyway, GO STEPH!!!
If you ever decide running is not the best weight-bearing exercise for you, consider aerobics. The moves can be somewhat dance-like and you do it to music — between those 2 things I find it makes exercise more fun.
Also, aerobics classes (& videos), include some strength training, which I find makes doing everything else easier (including exercise).
Steph, Look up the Pace Program at alsearsmd@alsearsmd.com It is about how to make your body work better. It is good for you to run a little and walk a little at least you won’t be a sweat ball when done. Let the rest of them sweat like heck!
You are doing a fabulous job. Running is hard work whether you’ve been doing it for a few weeks or years.
I started running a couple of years after I had knee surgery, because I hated the idea I would never get the strength and mobility I had in my legs back. Now I can run most (I walk parts of the second half) of a half marathon. It’s all about persistence… and being as stubborn as a mule.
Wow! Good luck!
Good luck, Stephanie! May your feet be like wings.
Dearest Running Knitter…
As a breast cancer survivor who can only jog slowly from yarn shop to yarn shop, I salute you! Someday you too will be 65, getting socialized medicine (oh sorry, you already get that) and be proud of your ability to run if you need/want to. On behalf of all us survivors and lovers of all thing Izzard, Thank you, for so many things.
Oh try weight lifting !! Really and truly. Builds bones like nothing else and is quite actually fun, invigorating and incredibly easy. Really !!
Oh try weight lifting !! Really and truly. Builds bones like nothing else and is quite actually fun, invigorating and incredibly easy. Really !!
Walking and jogging are both great weight-bearing exercises. Your body has to support itself (bear its own weight) while you move. Strength training, though, is tops when it comes to weight bearing exercises. Numerous studies have shown that weight lifting can reverse the effects of osteoporosis by increasing bone density. The explanation for this phenomenon is that your bones are in a constant state of regeneration. As old bone cells die, new ones appear. In fact, your whole skeleton regenerates itself over a 10-year period. Bone cells, though, regenerate only at the strength they need to, in order to do what you ask of them. The less you ask them to do, the weaker they grow back. Over time, your bones get weaker and weaker. You start to walk all unched over. A slight fall, which 10 years earlier you would have easily brushed off, can shatter a leg, an arm, or a hip bone. While you recover, you’re asking even less of your bone cells so they continue to get weaker and weaker. It’s a very bad and dangerous cycle to be in. Suppose, though, you begin to lift weights. Now, all of a sudden, you’re asking a lot of your bones. You’re asking them to support not only your own weight, but the additional weight of dumbbells. When your bone cells start to regenerate, they need to be stronger, not weaker, than their predecessors. As you get stronger, thanks to your strength training, you will be lifting heavier weights and thus requiring your bone cells to grow back even stronger. This is the cycle that you want to be in. Weight training can actually help to reverse the aging process when it comes to your bones.
Steph, Good for you for persevering and for doing this for your aunt.
Running can do a lot of good things for you and if you like it- continue doing so. But like LOTS of other people, I will suggest that just maybe you try some resistance training- yes, strength training!
As others have pointed out, strength training breaks down your bones -but in a different way than running. And at the same time it forces your body to make more of the hormones that cause you to heal. (nope, probably not getting that from your running – you have spend time anaerobically to get it).
I call strength training the fountain of youth.
This is a great program that really works (no affiliation). Check it out!
http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml
So, Steph? I used to be a runner. After decades of running and dancing and aerobics and..well…walking, I found out that I was born with serious bone deformities in my left foot and because of an abnormally high pain tolerance, I had done so much damage to my foot that I would never run again.
I was 42.
Now I am 45 and I DREAM about running, the way some people dream about flying. I am a writer and the best writing I ever did, I did when I was in “the zone” running my heart out on the Town Lake Trail in Austin, Texas.
I live in New York now and I am 30 pounds heavier and not nearly as prolific a writer. I hope that as you are running your race, you’ll give a thought to how fortunate you are to be able to run –and that you’ll let that be your inspiration for running in the future. I sure as hell wish I’d run more and longer and with more gratitude while I could.
Something to add to the list on the piece of paper in your pocket:
When you get to the finish line, you will be treated as a returning hero(ine), you will hear cheers and clapping, you will receive hugs and kisses from family, friends and complete strangers and you will have gladdened the hearts (and helped heal the bodies) of many, many people.
Laura
Interesting link to the bit about marathon runners and running possibly being good for their knees. Without giving too much away, I should point out that the difference in weight between a marathoner and me is, well, significant. THEN, it becomes harder on your knee cartilage. You appear to have avoided that, so run strong.
I hear ya. I have to run for the bus now and again and I feel like a retard just doing that, boobs and all the juggly bits juggling(i am 32b but the running makes me feel like I have 38DDDD’s ) and of course 99% of the time the &^%^&#$#$# behind the wheel drives off just as I am at the door and don’t tell me that the &@^$%#$ didnt see me in his side mirror!!
Anyhoo I totally understand the running thing and a promise of a cold day in hell wouldn’t motivate me in the slightest to even ever ever not in a gazillion years consider running. I hate running.
But this is the reason I,m writing
YOU DONT HAVE TO RUN!!
You prevent osteoporosis by RESISTANCE TRAINING i.e Weight Lifting. You do that hauling baskets of wood in for the cosy fire-hey you could haul all your neighbours wood in while yere at it, haul a sheep in to get it fleeces instead of letting the farmer do that and the best thing lifting a pint of beer instead of a glass etc, you get my point.
So? What about endorphins. I don’t believe in them. You feeling any high? Doesn’t sound like it. I believe in Elvis in Kalamazoo before I believe in endorphins.
Shoot. Sorry about the triple-post. I was being held hostage by the blog (and being punished for all the cruel things I’ve thought about double-posters.)
Good for you. It’s always more inspiring to me to hear stories about people who suck at something and keep trying anyway that those ones that make it look easy.
But I must say, this is yet another reason why Eddie Izzard is awesome.
I learned that walking during a race is actually a great strategy when I trained for my first marathon to raise money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society through their team in training program. I COULD not walk during races when I’m well conditioned, but I feel better when I do, and since most of us aren’t elite racers, and never will be, who cares? Do what you’re comfortable doing, chat with someone your pace on the course and try to have a good time!
Good Luck! You’ll be amazed at how energizing a race crowd can be. My husband says to tell you to remember to warm up before the gun goes off. 15 minutes of brisk walking/easy jogging will help immensely. But what I really wanted to share with you is the advice given to me by an anonymous runner. Cramping muscles had forced me to a painful walk at the end of my second marathon and I thought I was a complete failure because I was unable to run the entire distance. He’d heard the grief in my comments to my companion and said, as he passed, “Walking is safe running”. I am eternally grateful. Run strong and enjoy!
I think you might have just become my inspiration to get back on the treadmill and outside and run despite how I feel. I’ll let you know. But thank you.
If you run, you are a runner. We all have to start somewhere. As a trail runner, one of the things I love about it is the expectation that you will walk at some point in a race (hills to be exact). Doesn’t matter your pace… you are a still a runner!!
And – in my 40’s I am faster than I have ever been, sometimes an empty nest gives you some time to run (though messes with the knitting time).
I hope you enjoy yourself on Sunday. Running or not. For avoiding osteoporosis, you can do any weight-bearing exercise. Walking comes to mind. As does lifting weights. Perhaps you don’t want to go to a gym, but cases of beer weigh a fair amount, particularly if you buy it in bottles. Just sayin’
Good luck! I was always better at 5k when my primary source of working out was off road cycling!!! I totally hear you about the pain of running! I’m 53 and never got the hang of it. Can still ride umpteen miles off-road tho.
Hi Steph, I have written and erased a couple of rants on the subject of running. Soooo, just saying, please be very careful and read Leonie’s comment, as well as the others who are pointing out there are other way to protect your bones without making a cripple of yourself. Judy
Good on You! I’m cheering for you all the way. Running never seems to get easy. Even though I love it, I still find excuses not to do it, like knitting. And no, you never stop sweating. The better shape you’re in the quicker you’ll lather up a sweat. For the past couple years, to lessen our family’s carbon footprint, I’ve decided to run home from work – 7K – I’m 57 and started running 31 years ago to wear off the stress brought on by an overactive child. I called it ‘running away from home’ and I did it every day. Even though I always returned it was the perfect therapy for me. Seems I have to have a good practical reason to run so that’s why not having a car seems to be a good one now that the child is 33 (and a bit calmer). But I’ve never entered a 5K or 10K although I’ve supported lots of runners. Why? Because I love my solitary runs & quite possibly I’ve never had an injury worse than a runner’s toe because I choose soft surfaces when I can – grass, dirt, as much as possible. I notice these planned runs are often on cement or asphalt & both are bad – I get shin splints immediately. Not wanting to dismay you but just be careful how much running you do on hard surfaces. I believe that’s what’s hardest on the joints. My parents have osteoporosis despite a lifetime of hard physical labour. I don’t think you can totally avoid it but I’m trying my best & applaud you for trying too. I avoid leg cramps by making sure I take enough calcium. Hope these tips help & all the best on Sunday!
You will be so awesome the wind won’t be able to catch up.
At least, all the knitters will think so!
Way to rise to a challenge!
awesome! i hope you finish feeling like you could run one more km. (going now to sponsor you)
if it’s any comfort: when i started cycling with david 12 years ago (the serious cycling, not my commuting), i hated every minute of it (even though i LOVED bike riding). i hated it for a long time, maybe 2 years. i don’t think i enjoyed much of it til the third year.
somewhere in the 4th or 5th year, i finally began to understand hills, though i still hated climbing them
it took 7 years to really enjoy all of it and a few MORE years before i looked forward to hill climbing (i previously thought david was just nuts because he like hills, but now i see why).
every year i find more and more things to love about this difficult sport. it’s always hard, but now i’m able to lose myself in its rhythms, without feeling the “hard” so much.
maybe (i HOPE) running can be like that for you.
All of the things you said are true, and I admire you greatly for your perseverance. It might help to know that lots of people who run don’t exactly enjoy it – lots of things that are good for us are kind of unpleasant (mammograms and colonoscopies leap immediately to mind). I will keep a good thought for you on Sunday.
I had to laugh because I finally forced myself to join a gym and went for the first time tonight! Coincidence? I think not. And as a breast cancer survivor (11yrs, woohoo!), thanks for taking this on! In 2 weeks, I am having a prophylactic mastectomy on the other side, and then I’m getting brand new fresh and perky boobies!
And just for the record, I always knew Eddie Izzard was crazy and all those marathons just confirmed it! Gotta love him.
You are awesome. To compare, I ran something less than 1km two weeks ago and I’m still sore. Keep up the great work!
I’m a runner. sort of.
I started 3 years ago with the Cancer Research UK Run for Life with my then 6 & 10 year old daughters. We ran for my brother in law John who had mesothelioma.
I say ‘ran’ but actually as it was pouring with rain and my youngest was fed up, I gave her a piggy back most of the way and we did it in 40 minutes.
I realised running helped me control my weight – I have been clinically obese in the past – so I kept going.
This Lent, I challenged myself to run a 100 miles and managed 140, culminating in a half marathon.
Thing is, I don’t like running much; I did it to keep fit and stay slimish.
As an ex-orthopod I’ve seen inside too many knees and never thought I’d run, especially as I became a GP when my back stopped me operating 20 years ago (god, that makes me realise just how old I am) and I have creaky knees and have broken my ankle twice.
Then I got pneumonia in May and couldn’t run. I miss it much more than I thought I would. Now my chest is well enough to try again, the months of inactivity have aggravated my back and I’m struggling.
Thing is, running is hard at what ever level you’re doing it, but it does work and you should keep at it. Try using a cross trainer to build up stamina and muscle bulk and build your staying power. Do distance not times and fartlek.
Yes, fartlek; a Scandinavian term for alternating between speeds when running. Walking is not cheating, it’s a training technique and a good one too.
BTW, before the pneumonia I had got my 5k time down to 21 minutes. And I’m 5 years older than you… 🙂
De-lurking because I thought you should know (for your knees) that as long as you get your heart rate up for 20 minutes, walking is as good as running, but without the high impact stress on your body.
Good luck! And nice to know you’re taking good care of yourself 🙂
I’m a runner. sort of.
I started 3 years ago with the Cancer Research UK Run for Life with my then 6 & 10 year old daughters. We ran for my brother in law John who had mesothelioma.
I say ‘ran’ but actually as it was pouring with rain and my youngest was fed up, I gave her a piggy back most of the way and we did it in 40 minutes.
I realised running helped me control my weight – I have been clinically obese in the past – so I kept going.
This Lent, I challenged myself to run a 100 miles and managed 140, culminating in a half marathon.
Thing is, I don’t like running much; I did it to keep fit and stay slimish.
As an ex-orthopod I’ve seen inside too many knees and never thought I’d run, especially as I became a GP when my back stopped me operating 20 years ago (god, that makes me realise just how old I am) and I have creaky knees and have broken my ankle twice.
Then I got pneumonia in May and couldn’t run. I miss it much more than I thought I would. Now my chest is well enough to try again, the months of inactivity have aggravated my back and I’m struggling.
Thing is, running is hard at what ever level you’re doing it, but it does work and you should keep at it. Try using a cross trainer to build up stamina and muscle bulk and build your staying power. Do distance not times and fartlek.
Yes, fartlek; a Scandinavian term for alternating between speeds when running. Walking is not cheating, it’s a training technique and a good one too.
BTW, before the pneumonia I had got my 5k time down to 21 minutes. And I’m 5 years older than you… 🙂
As for Sunday, I’m taking my sister (John’s widow) to a knitting show.
good luck – I’m sure you will do great.
And – for future reference – there is a great podcast called podrunner intervals that has training programs for building up running endurance slowly – even has a little pep talk at the end from a trainer – it’s old, but I think still available on itunes – has a “sister” podcast call podrunner that has great music at a constant pace for walking, running what ever – that is still being broadcast (is that the right word?)
And – running is great, but walking also builds those bones – and much less chance for injury.
Have a great run! You are going to have a lot of fun and probably shed a few tears during that 5K, it is an amazing and emotional experience to be part of something that big where everyone is there for the same reason; I’m sure your daughter can tell you that from her ride this summer.
Don’t forget to add some strength training to your exercise. It will help with the running, but also, the force exerted on your bones (because of course muscle attaches to bone) will actually cue your bones to grow stronger!
I envy you! I have severe plantaar fasciitis (bone spurs) due to military marches in bad boots, wish I could just walk 5k without intense pain. So all my best Stephanie, and if you have to slow down to a walk may I suggest you stow some knitting in a fanny pack to keep you going… might as well enjoy yourself!
Steph—check out the benefits of taking 1000mg of Vitamin D. There have been many mentions this year in print media. I have taken it since Feb and seen great improvement in my bone health.
Best of luck tomorrow!
We live in an impatient society, don’t we? My chosen form of anti-aging exercise (Taoist tai chi) can take years for any noticeable change to occur. Many give up after learning the basic set – the knitting equivalent of giving up after the first row, not seeing how that can lead to the sweaters you imagine. There’s no quick fix, is there? Then again, it’s the decades of sitting at a computer that’s gotten some of us to where we’re at now.
What’s annoying about the tai chi is that the recommended daily dose for maximum health benefit is one hour before 50, three hours after. I just turned 50 and I’m not yet desperate enough to make that kind of time.
It’s not about how fast you run, how far you run or if you have to walk 10% or even 99% of it. It’s about giving it all you’ve got. And I’ve no doubt that you’ll do that. Best of luck!
You have helped me make a decision with your post! I do the Denver Race for the Cure every year and try to get family to join me. This year my 4yo niece and 6yo nephew will be coming along so we are only doing the 1 mile course. I have been thinking about doing the 5k myself and then the mile with them but kept coming up with excuses-it is too early, my ankle is sore, my blisters aren’t healed from the half marathon, and on and on. But you have inspired me to just do it. My race is tomorrow as well. I’ll be thinking of you, Eddie, and most importantly my grandma and numerous friends that are courageous survivors!!! Good luck in your race!
If you run, you are a runner.
Good for you! You ARE a runner and will do great!
The book “Born to Run” has dramatically changed my husband’s life. He has almost 20 years on you and his knees and ankles hurt all the time, until he read “Born to Run”. He gave up running over 10 years ago because of the pain. He is a runner again.
Good luck Sunday and check out the book.
You never cease to inspire me. You will do amazing — walking or running — actually you already have. Thank you for being a wonderful person.
I’ve been running for 15 years. I love it, but I’ve come to appreciate that there’s a split in people. Not so much that some people are good at running while other’s arent (I started out very badly, I even allowed myself to not run up hills in my first 5K), but more that some people like running and others don’t.
You may just be part of the latter. I wouldn’t be so hard on yourself. Weightlifting and walking also do good things for keeping osteoarthritis away, I’m lead to believe
I donated to your run, Stephanie.
From someone who was an involuntary runner for years (had to run at work) and became a 5K runner voluntarily, after clever manipulation by friends (“you LOVE this charity, girl! Do it for the turtles/whales/children!” it doesn’t get easier to train. You will probably keep feeling horribly inadequate, even as you improve.
BUT, the energy and support you get at the 5k will feel GREAT. And you will feel good. After. *wicked grin* Sometimes it takes a while after. But you will.
Good luck! You can’t have a more humiliating/victorious time than I did on my first 5k. I was apparently lined up with people much faster than I (that’s most people), and I took off at their pace and wet my pants. Yes: I. wet. my. pants. Yes, I’d used the bathroom before the race. I spent the entire race dashing into portapotties. Halfway through the race, I realized that the shirt I was wearing outside my shorts had become soaked (large, wet hemispheres coming up from the hem). I became somewhat obsessed with this problem. It didn’t occur to me until much later that I could have grabbed a glass of water or gatorade at an aid station and just thrown it over myself to camouflage the wet spots–no, I became obsessed with knotting my shirt up so it wouldn’t show–that, and looking for the next portapottie. About two-tenths of a mile from the end (I’m a Yank, I can’t do Ks), I passed a much younger woman who had apparently just vomited and was being taken off the course. She looked at me as I passed, and I just knew she was thinking, “I’m being pulled from a race that an incontinent old lady can finish!” Because finish I did. It was one of those races where everyone who finishes gets a medal, and I got my medal! So enjoy the experience! we expect a full report, you know.
Good luck! You can’t have a more humiliating/victorious time than I did on my first 5k. I was apparently lined up with people much faster than I (that’s most people), and I took off at their pace and wet my pants. Yes. I. wet. my. pants. Yes, I’d used the bathroom before the race. I spent the entire race dashing into portapotties. Halfway through the race, I realized that the shirt I was wearing outside my shorts had become soaked (large, wet hemispheres coming up from the hem). I became somewhat obsessed with this problem (it didn’t occur to me until much later that I could have grabbed a glass of water or gatorade at an aid station and just thrown it over myself to camouflage the wet spots–no, I became obsessed with knotting my shirt up so it wouldn’t show–that, and looking for the next portapottie. About two-tenths of a mile from the end (I’m a Yank, I can’t do Ks), I passed a much younger woman who had apparently just vomited and was being taken off the course. She looked at me as I passed, and I just knew she was thinking, “I’m being pulled from a race that an incontinent old lady can finish!” Because finish I did. It was one of those races where everyone who finishes gets a medal, and I got my medal! So enjoy the experience! we expect a full report, you know.
Steph! We are all proud of you! at 69 (next week) I am a walker, have never been a runner,absolutely hate running. I am so impressed that you are doing it, but agree c all those who are saying to you”walk, lift weights”, stay the person you are! We don’t have to all be runners–it sucks! I do believe there is no shame in walking big pieces of it if you need to. We will all be super proud of you just for doing it! Aunt Julie is proud too, I feel sure. Just another thought, all the energy of tomorrow is going to get your endorphins up and you (being a naturally energetic person) are going to sail through it! Now be sure to enjoy the moments of “glory” and that energy rush!
PS: note your article about knees you twittered yesterday did not mention women–we do have hips and it does affect our knees differently I believe!
You can do it Steph!!!
Cool! Way to go, Harlot.
Not currently running but did at one time.Entered the local 10K. Got a cramp at the 1 Km mark (NO! This WILL NOT happen to you.) Hobbled through rest of race and finished — so late, that the ambulance driver that is at the end asked if I would mind if they went in ahead of me. I finished… no one really knows but me as they’d essentially ‘closed’ the finish line by the time I got there. It felt good.
Have a good race.
I have a 30 yo niece who used to run competively, along with her father and adopted sister. The 2 younger ones have crushed their knee cartilage out of existence. They have to live in one-story homes. Climbing stairs in painful.
Take it from someone who has ridden an exercise bike for years–you don’t have to run to get the benefits for which you’re looking.
BTW, have you had a bone density test? If not, get one. Then plan your exercise based on those results.
I’m ten years younger than you, but have had pretty much the same experience over the past year. It has gotten a little easier over time, but it’s never really “easy”. It’s about feeling good after a run, not feeling great while you’re out there running!
I’ll be participating in the Run for the Cure in St. John’s tomorrow morning, as a team captain. It’s always a really fun time, and an uplifting experience just to be there.
Good luck!
My Race for the Cure is Oct. 10. A week from today. I still can’t run 5K, though I have been doing Couch to 5K for weeks and weeks. It is hard, though I am in the non-timed 5K. 🙂
I will walk and maybe run a little, I guess. For both my sisters who are breast cancer survivors, and my best friend who died at 45 after her breast cancer recurred elsewhere.
You can do it! Hey, I started running at the age of 47 and managed to run the Ottawa half-marathon last spring at the age of 48. You can run this 5K, for sure. It will be hard but it is doable, honest and true.
The real thing about running, is that it IS hard and it doesn’t exactly get unharder, but as you get used to it you can sometimes find a place of transcendence and that is one of the most beautiful, exhilarating feelings I know, to be in that place. It’s a place of immense freedom and a solitude that is vast and deep and shiversome. I love that place, a lot: it’s why I run, to get there, even tho’ I often fail to get there. But oh, when I do … there is almost nothing more enormous and perfect and compelling.
I’ve walked the Avon walk for breast cancer twice. The second time I had a really hard time and my mom reminded me that I wasn’t walking for me – I was walking for those who couldn’t. Good for you — have fun and just remember – you’re running for those who can’t.
Also – I think you’ve inspired me to start running……good lord you’re an amazing running.
This is a wonderful post but the best thing about it is the title.
Stephanie,
Nice shoes…Have a great run/walk..If you could just figure out how to run/knit or knit/run, well then all problems solved! Maybe work on that for the next 5K. I wish you the best!
Rebecca
I have also tried to convince myself that I am a runner. The podcast “Couch To 5K” has helped me. It’s free to download onto your i-Pod. Hope it helps you as well!
Summer
Step, you’re going to be great tomorrow! You’re a strong, determined woman. You’ll be finished running 5k before you know it. Thank you for supporting breast cancer research with your run. My mom is a breast cancer survivor. I have two friends who weren’t quite as lucky. Happy running!
Steph, you will be fine tomorrow. YOu are a strong, determined woman. You’ll run the 5k before you know it! Thank you for fundraising for breast cancer research. My mom is a breast cancer survivor, and two of my friends weren’t as lucky. I hope you have a great time!
I used to run, but now can’t due to way too many knee injuries. It doesn’t matter how good you are at it. I sucked at it too, and had a very long love/hate relationship with the activity. I loved how I felt when I was done & what it did for my body, but frequently struggled through 2-3 miles, hating every step. Now, whenever I see someone out jogging/running/slogging on, I watch them with envy in my heart & say, “Lucky Bastard” under my breath because I know that I can never go running again. Nor can I ride a bike or go skiing, my favorite sport of all. Concentrate on the fact that you are healthy and able to go running and that you’re doing a really great thing for someone you care about it. Skill level is irrelevant.
LOL! Saw a comment about getting a word in the urban dictionary and had to google that. Should have know it would be “kinneared!” LOL! Anyway, good luck with the 5K tomorrow. I don’t know if I would want to WALK 5K, let alone run it! Good for you! Oh okay. Maybe I could walk 3 miles! LOL! I know how far way that is, here!
Just wanted to say good luck! People who run more than a mile without stopping amaze me. It sounds like that includes you!
I hope your run is over before you know it – all the surrounding energy and emotion will carry you through. Remember how elated Megan felt when she completed her big ride this summer — you’ve set a good example for your girls, and you continue to do so. Yay Stephanie!
Just wanted to say good luck! People who run more than a mile without stopping amaze me. Sounds like that includes you!
Steph,
On the last day of Sock Summit you had a break and we had a brief conversation. It came up that I would turn 62 in a couple of days. Twice you said to me, “You’re holding up really well.” That caught my attention because I don’t think of myself as “holding up.” I just live life and only occasionally does “Aging” ask me to pay attention to her. I am, however, an old English teacher and love the nuances of language . . . you tickled my curiosity. This post gives me some insight into your comment.
For what it’s worth . . . I tried to “become a runner” several times as a young woman but it never worked. It was too painful. I have, however, walked regularly for most of my life, mostly on uneven forest trails. It’s good, weight-bearing, gentle exercise. When I’m feeling energetic I do five or six 30- to 60-second sprints during a half-hour walk. That’s the best I can do and I consider it a huge gift. I had polio when I was seven and there was a time when I couldn’t walk at all. Nothing like gratitude to
keep one on a long term exercise program.
May tomorrow’s run give you a sense of joy and satisfaction and accomplishment . . . no matter how many meters you “walk” versus how many you “run.” I’m sure you’ll succeed. That’s what you do. Over and over again.
p.s. I posted a week ago about three of my personal heroines and friends. http://www.cherylbrunette.com/2009/09/my-heroines/ The youngest just turned 87. They are my models for aging with grace and authenticity and integrity and beauty. They are all more than twice as old as you.
good for you!!
We are all cheering for you – and totally believe that you can do it, and yes, walking a little in these 5 k thingys is allowed.
Running does get easier over the years, in fact, I can personally tell you that it gets “addictive” (in a good way)
Good luck!
How ironic. I started running in June after because I was angry with my husband. For the first time in my entire life, I liked it.
I’ve had quite a few aches and pains for trying to maintain it, but on Saturday I ran my first 5K with my sister! We came in 5th from the end, but I ran the whole, blasted way.
Congrats!
Congratulations for starting to run at such an (ahem) old age! I did not start running either until later in life, but I was 57. Now, that I’m 60, running has become addictive. I don’t run fast and I don’t run very long – 5K is as far as I can go. But, we are out there!
I contend that I’m I’m not a runner. Never will be, either as far as I’m concerned.
Run and Knit on!
Rock on!
Way to go! I hope you find the spirit of the run takes you farther and faster than you thought possible–I’ve also heard that the emotion of that particular run, with all the amazing survivors and the sadness of those we’ve lost makes it okay to walk so you don’t blunder into anybody since you can’t see for the tears. So whatever works for you, whatever this race is for you, have a great time!
I love running, and it’s a relatively recent thing for me that it has become easy and addictive, and I really hope that you find that. I really hope that others see your message and pick it up as well and get some of that happy for themselves.
And you might check out Galloway (I didn’t read all the comments, so I’m probably the zillionth to suggest him) but he’ll reaffirm your run/walk approach. 🙂
Great job! Congratulations!
Good luck with the running. More power to you.
Look into Vitamine D for your osteoporosis concerns. I seems to be the big thing now and expecially for those of us in the cold climates that keep our skins covered for a lot of the year.
Congratulations on the 5K Steph, we are proud of you!
I hope your 5K went well! Believe it or not, getting up to 5K distance is the hardest it ever gets. It only gets easier! You’ve done the hard work! I’ve used Galloway’s run/walk method every time I’ve come back to running (after injury, baby, etc). It’s great and is least painful, I think!
Running makes my knitting possible. I think it’s nice to have an active hobby to complement a sedentary one!
Good for you for hanging in there. Good luck with the run!
Good luck and have fun!
Getting there is half the effort. Support your aunt, have fun. It isn’t about your speed. If I were able to walk 5k, I would be happy, and no one can expect more of you than they can of themselves. But that doesn’t mean I expect a preschooler to knit Shetland lace, either. Thank you for your effort.
WHOA! Very respectable time! Way to go!!
That’s a great time, well done! Also, if you’re not getting the endorphins you should be from running, have a piece of dark chocolate before you set out. (I read this in a Doug Coupland interview). It does seem to work, and it involves chocolate, so you can’t go wrong!
Excellent time! Well done!
“stubborn as a mule” is a perfect requirement for running 🙂 Hope today’s Run for the Cure was awesome for so many reasons – perhaps the least among them being the running part. Congratulations!!
WOOT WOOT WOOT You are a wonder!
Hi Stephanie,
Your run must be over by now, so whatever I say won’t matter – but please heed commenter Susan’s advice that running is hard on the joints. I want to add that it is not for everyone. Certain body types are made for running, others are not. Walk, pump iron, swim, so many things. Please consider them.
Stephanie: I am a knitter who started running in January of this year, on a treadmill for health reasons, and at first I could barely run a quarter of a mile before having to walk the next half mile or so. But in July, I ran my first 5K, outside in the heat and humidity, in 38 minutes. I’ve walked the Race for the Cure for the last several years but this year for the first time I hit the run button for race for the cure in Maryland which is on October 18. If I can do it, anyone can do it. Good luck.
So, how did it go? And aren’t you glad you did now?
I hope by now you are enjoying a nice glass of beer and sitting with your feet up. You are an inspiration to us all.
You might enjoy the blog at jillwillrun.com I think it is possible to come to love the running, even if you don’t like to sweat.
Me, I can’t seem to run for more than 30 seconds at a time. But that’s better than the 20 seconds at a time I had been doing, so at least there’s improvement 🙂
The Internet says: go and have some sleep. Relive your run in your dreams!
Why do you keep breaking my heart???? UPDATE PLEASE!
Strangely enough Will Ferrell runs marathons too. WTF?
love 🙂
Congratulations on an achieved goal and a well run race.
You ARE a runner!
xoxJen
Hey Steph … have you heard of PodRunner? I learned about it from another knitter. They have a “first day to 5k” series that I’m about six weeks into now. I love it. It has gotten me back into running. They have a website and are also on itunes.
Adding to your list of physical discomforts to avoid: being out of breath and panting like a dog. Me, I do my trying-not-be-an-old-lady-with-a-fracture thing by lifting weights. Try it and avoid all those things you hate!
Hi Steph,
No time to read all the comments, so if I repeat what others have said – sorry.
Anyway, You are awesome to sign up for the run!
But, if you decide after doing it that you’d like to try a different sort of exercise I would highly reccommend going to a Jazzercise class (jazzercise.com). I’ve been doing it since 1984, I’m 45. Jazzercise has everything; cardio, strength training, stretching, etc. And…..you do it indoors! Never out in the cold rain! There were a couple years when we did not have a class in my area and I tried every other kind of exercise, the only thing I like and can stick to is Jazzercise!
I hate to run, so hats off to your persistance. I’m sure you’ve heard to add weight bearing exercise to your workouts too. Go to crossfit.com You can easily find an affiliate in your city. It may seem a bit crazy, but its meant for anyone to do if scaled appropriately.
Good for you!
Stephanie. You are an amazing and wonderful woman. You are inspirational. Aunt Julie is in my prayers.
You go, girl! But it’s true you don’t need to run. Walking strong and fast for just a bit longer than you would run does wonders, too, and is still a weight-bearing exercise. If you keep running, take it from a 42-year-old jogger…go slow, don’t try to race the little chippies with their cute ponytails swishing in the breeze, and you won’t believe how in shape you’ll get and how far you’ll be able to go! Just keep working at it. It’s a slow process…don’t be discouraged!!!!!
Oh Dude. I hope you did okay. I hate running. I hate sweating. I can’t run for long before I feel like my chest is going to explode. I definitely don’t like it. But, I’m 41 too. Ah, crap!
Just over a year and a half ago I couldn’t run more than a quarter mile at a time (although I did power walk). This November 1st in celebration of my 50th birthday year I’ll be running in the NYC marathon. I won’t be setting any land speed records but I’m pretty sure I won’t disgrace myself. So all I have to say is you go girl! If I can do it, you can do it!
Your time looks good to me. Every day I take a 1 1/2 mile walk, and it takes half an hour. You ran a lot further than I walk in about the same amount of time. I’m impressed.
Hearing you quote Eddie as inspiration is the weirdest thing to a Brit like me. He’s a shining example of intelligence, wit and sheer randomness. I walked/ran a 5k last year, and although it wasn’t anywhere near as fast as I wanted, I most proud of the training I did beforehand. I had never run before, and in the beginning I seriously couldn’t run for more than 30 seconds at a time. And I also thought “why the hell do people do this?” I didn’t magically turn into an athlete, but doing that training gave me some self esteem I didn’t have before.
I’m sure you did fantastically. Maybe I will take a leaf out of your book and get back into it.
I am sure you were great! According to Olympic champion Jeff Galloway, walking periodically while you run is good for the body. I have been run/walking for almost 2 years now and it has changed my life. I burn about the same amount of calories as my hubby who rarely walks and I usually feel better at the end. I am also slow but I figure….at least I am out there.
Enjoy!
it’s awesome that you are running (both for cancer and for health). it does get easier – which you know because you can now run further than you ever could before.
the important thing is to have fun. walk if you have to, stretch a lot, and just try to enjoy it. on the day of the race you will be on such a high, i promise. you’ll look around at all of the people doing good for others and running will feel like an honor, not a chore. 🙂
good luck!
My best friend runs everyday for the past forever and still hates it. she says she does it cause she like to eat and drink (as in wine). I thought I was only one who hates running. Luckily, walking is good osteoporosis prevention
I’m sorry that you injured yourself running. You might want to read a book called Born to Run. One of the discussions in the book is about how as running shoes have evolved and become more sophisticated, the more the injury rate has gone up. Runners apparently had far fewer injuries in the old days when running shoes were more like the plain old Keds of the old days. And, there’s a tribe in Mexico who run in sandals and hardly ever have injuries.
Another lurker coming out of the shadows…but if you are going to be running check to see if there is a Hash House Harriers group in your neck of the woods they call themselves a drinking group with a running problem as they combine beer with running although not necessarily in that order, although I do believe every run ends in a trip to the pub.
Another lurker coming out of the shadows…but if you are going to be running – check to see if there is a Hash House Harriers group in your neck of the woods – they call themselves a drinking group with a running problem as they combine beer with running although not necessarily in that order, although I do believe every run ends in a trip to the pub.
Commenting on twitter entry about cooking with your mind. Doesn’t work for me either, I hate when that happens!
A really nice motivating book and entertaining about running is called Born to Run by Christopher McDougall. After you get over his ego in the first 30 pages it’ll definitly give you some entertainment as you run along.
Good luck with your running. I hope you end up liking it soon!
I hope you’re feeling really great about what you did yesterday! You deserve to!
I’m 35, and I’ve been running more than every other day (usually 5-6 times a week) for at least 10 years. I often walk more than 10% of the time, and it counts as a run if I do almost any running at all. It all depends on my energy that day, the weather, how much time I can squeeze in, etc.
If I looked at it just as exercise I’d probably hate running. It’s my time outside and I need that, even in northern New England! It comes without chores, or nags, or whines, and you can leave that annoying phone behind. It reconnects me to trees and leaves and pretty skies. If you run in residential areas just before dinner you can smell what everyone’s cooking that night (spaghetti here, onion rings there, somebody’s having cake after supper the lucky ducks!) — helps with menu planning. 😉 You can take a quick glance at your neighbors and keep everyone in your thoughts. All this, and it’s still an great way to stay fit!
And look at you! You found a way to turn it into a really good thing for people who really need it! Way to go!
Hey, i know exactly how you feel. i’ve been doing this for 2 months because i just turned thirty and my blood pressure sucks. i run five times a week and at the end of two miles i’m ready to keel over, but i feel better later. I think of my grandparents, one who died early, and the ones who are still around that could’ve used the info that exercise really helps — a lot of things. I also run and think of my mom, who probably wishes there was someone who jumped on her butt when the BP was “high normal”. So i’m still a lousy runner, but I’m getting better. Good job! You really inspired me after a discouraging run yesterday. I’m going to print this and stick it on the fridge! You ROCK!
One thing I discovered when I was running (before I discovered that I LOVE walking and only have to give myself a little push out the door) is that the time of day I go out made a real difference. First thing in the morning worked just great; after work? Three, four times as hard.
Might make a difference for you.
Funny Thugg Knitt video on Funny or Die:
http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/1cae67580d/thug-knitt-from-chelseabites
I love that you bring Eddie Izzard when you run. That’s fabulous!
Surprisingly, running is a lot like knitting: “There are no running police.” As with knitters, there are many of them with a wide range of abilities and motivations, but, oddly enough, when you put them together, they seem to have quite a fun time. When I was a runner, I was definitely a back-of-the-packer, and discovered that it was rather a fun place to be – no pressure to win and lots of good humor and support. Plus, you get a t-shirt, bagels and possibly a massage after it (never mind the satisfaction of reaching a goal and supporting a good cause). How can you beat that?
Of course, I’m not sure how one might run and knit at the same time, but if anyone can do it, you can.
Hope it was great!
Holy cats, running sure is difficult. My husband loves it, and while he says I should be good at it given my build/frame, I loathe it with the burning white-hot passion of a thousand fiery suns.
But. He was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis about 3 years ago. He thought he’d have to give up running forever. This would be like all of us giving up knitting. Seriously cruel stuff. Anyway, he got on a treatment plan that made it possible for him to run again. He just finished a half-marathon a few weeks ago.
Because of him, I’ve taken up running. I’m aging too, and it’s not fun. At all. If there were a medicine that turned couch-sitting & knitting into the type of exercise that slowed down aging, I’d be all over it. I figure if he can do it, I can too. I’m the slowest most slow runner that’s ever been slow, but I’m getting better & stronger & (marginally) faster. He inspires me to get out there & run.
Good for you, running that race… both for yourself & for Joe’s Aunt. You never know, you could be inspiring someone else to get out there & run. 🙂
I’m pretty sure Eddie Izzard is not human, and you are. 5k is amazing. (I would wish you good luck, but it’s already Monday, whoops.)
I started running with my boyfriend a few years ago. I’m 5’1″ and I have hideously short legs, crooked hips, and low blood pressure…plus, I’m pigeon-toed. In other words, I start up the treadmill and then flop around on it like a penguin with a conjoined twin until I pass out. Meanwhile, the boy (whose legs start at his neck) is skipping alongside me going “But we haven’t even gone two miles yet!” And this has not improved at all. But hey, a workout is a workout.
I hope you made it all the way!
Dear Harlot,
By now you are recovering from your run. Good for you. What a fantastic goal.
I don’t run. Running sucks. However, I walk quickly. I have good form, and when I do half or full marathons, I always finish and I always pass plodders. Have you ever seen a plodder smile? Nope, but fast walkers, we smile, and get our heartrates up. As for weight bearing activities, I don’t know what style of yoga that you practice, but do standing poses, and hold them. And headstand. And hold it.
I’m just sayin’
There is no shame in taking walk breaks during a run. In fact, I plan them into my run. There’s this marathon guy, Jeff Galloway, who has a whole system built on walk breaks. The gist is that if you space walk breaks throughout your run, you allow your body to recover as you go and thus you can run longer (and often faster) than if you run until you’re about to die. Walk breaks also help me mentally, b/c it breaks my run up into very doable chunks. When I’m in shape, I usually run 9 minutes, walk 1 minutes. When I’m trying to get in shape, I start with running 4 minutes, walking 1 minute and then try to add a minute of running every week or so until I’m up to my 9/1 ratio.
I too am aging, 47yo, hysterectomy >10yrs ago, with a very significant family history of osteoporosis. and I dislike street/track running very much-but TRAIL running is fun! But things I learned: get a vitamin d blood level checked-as vitamin d works with calcium to build strong bones.’Mature’ women are more likely to have low vitamin d. Canadians have a limited amount of ‘quality’ sunlight time (research states) and wearing sunscreen all the time blocks what we need to make vitamin d. As an RN, I’ve read mega research studies to support this. One informational article that makes the point easy to understand is here: http://www.womentowomen.com/healthynutrition/vitamind.aspx . Good luck on future running adventures and the ageing process-I’m right there with you!
It’s Monday. Hurry up and post so we know you survived the run will you! Of course I jest, I’m sure you did great. Good on you, I bet it feels great to have accomplished it too! As for myself, I’m just starting on this running thing. Lets just call it walking for now. 2 miles twice a week, with the intention to hopfully by spring be able to jog my way through a 5K (yes, I know I’m mixing units of measurement here) Here’s hoping I can make it!
So there’s a million comments, who knows if you’ll even get to this one.
I started running at 37. Couch to 5k is good. The folks at kickrunning.com are awesome and supportive, if you aren’t afraid of an internet running club. Ain’t no shame in walking when you need to, there’s an entire industry devoted to it (Galloway method). If they had told me in high school that you could walk a little, I’d never have quit track.
I’ll be 42 this month. After my last marathon a year ago, my foot was wonky for eight months. Now I’m a big proponent of barefoot/minimalist running. Yeah, it’s weird and all hippie, but I’m a better, stronger runner for it.
Dude, you’re a runner. That is so beyond me–at the very most, I can totter like a wounded cow for a couple of miles on the treadmill, grimacing and hating every blessed moment of it. I’m 26 years old and really in very good shape– I work out (weights) 3-5x a week, no kidding. But I cannot run. Never could.
All these commenters above me who run and who have completed marathons and 5k’s: You kick my perky 20-something arse, and I think you are awesome.
I applaud your effort and determination! As a yoga teacher, I just want to remind you that yoga can be a weight bearing exercise== thing plank, down dog any thing were you are holding up your own weight in a literal not figurative way! So keep running but dont forget about yoga 🙂 Now if we could only figure out how to make knitting a weight bearing exercise! Maybe heavier needles? knit and run on, Latifa
Hey, good luck! (although I just realized that you’ve now already run!) I ran (and walked) a half marathon two weeks ago, and yeah, running is hard. I find it’s mostly mental toughness that keeps you going. And that I feel pretty good when it’s finally done!
I bought a beautiful pair of running shoes back in August. Right now they are nothing more than a fashion statement, but I don’t want that to be the case! I want to run! Hope your race went well.
My running story is pretty much the same as yours. The thing that has made running fun for me (yes, fun!) is wearing a heart rate monitor, so actually I’m not running the entire time. I used to run for 5 minutes (or whatever) then walk for 2 minutes (or whatever), rinse and repeat ad nauseum and I felt like I was going to die each time I ran, and starting the run up again was horrible each time too. Then I started running with a heart rate monitor, and I found out why I felt that way: my heart rate was going WAY high when I was running (like over 200bpm) and then dropping out of the aerobic zone when walking, so I had to struggle back into the aerobic zone again when I started back up. Now I keep my heart in the aerobic zone all the time. My aerobic zone is 121 – 158 . I run until I get to 150bpm, then I walk (my heart rate still goes up a bit after I stop running, so stopping a few beats early keeps me from going over the zone). When my heart rate gets down to about 130, I run again. And it’s actually fun, and I never feel like dying. I was really enjoying myself until I sprained my ankle 3 weeks ago, and I’m still waiting for it to heal, but I’m excited to get back out there again.
Seriously, if you feel like you’re going to die when you’re running (as I used to) your heart rate is probably going up way too high, and that’s not good for you or your body. Much better to keep yourself in the aerobic zone the entire time, even though it might mean more walking at first.
Oh, and I also agree with all of those who recommended Born to Run. 🙂
Try Race WALKING! With a coach, you can walk as fast as you can run! It hurts less and is WAY fun 🙂
Yes, running sucks. However, I’ve learned to do it for short periods of time. My fitness routine is largely comprised and run by a gym network known as Crossfit (www.crossfit.com). It’s a lot of weight-bearing, high-impact exercises, guaranteed to leave you lying on the floor in a pool of sweat. I’ve been doing it for over a year now, and let me tell you… I never thought I’d be in the shape I am. I can deadlift 75 kg(yes; we work in SI units!) My goal is a 90 kg before the end of the year . I can run (though not very far). I can press 24 kg overhead. And I’m not the strongest woman in the gym by a long shot.
Plus, the workout only takes an hour out of your day.
If you are interested in something that will be extremely efficient towards getting you “in shape” (whatever that means for you as an individual), I highly recommend it.
And I think they might have an affiliate near you in Canada….
Good luck! 🙂
I haven’t committed myself to a race or anything (yet), but I too am running because I feel that running is really hard work and I want to prove to myself that I can do it. I’ve been through treatment for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and thyroid cancer and I don’t want my body to defeat me. Trying to make myself a stronger and better person, able to take on things. I wish you the best and hope I can pull it off someday too.
I’ve just turned 40. Your post (as they often do) clarified a lot of thoughts that have been in my head, lately. I cycle and yog, but have only intermittently weight-trained(and occasionally thought about running). Hmmmm, time to get off my arse.
I think you are terrific for doing this.
And Eddie Izzard? What a man.
hey steph..well i am a 3 year surviver as of next week..running is good…life is good.. cheers cousin diane
You probably won’t see this comment but for what it is worth, I speed walk. I move my upper body (arms) back and forth and keep them above my waist which helps with the swelling thing and the losing weight thing, and I walk about 4 miles per hour. That is pretty fast. No running because of the impact injuries to the back and knee. You can lose weight, stay in really good shape, and keep on walking! Try it, you might like it.
Every now and again I get some wool envy — the mittens did it. Killer Mittens! Congrats on all your accomplishments this week!
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loved your “learning to run” story which has provided inspiration for me to keep at it, along with encouragement from my sister, too. i started this past jan (’09) and 5 min into it thought i would absolutely die. now, it’s oct. and i can run a straight 2 miles in 27 min and then walk 2 miles, working to build both distance and endurance. i found that i love running: i love the freeing way it makes me feel, i love the thoughts that run through my head – the stories i want to write, flashes of sentences that might become the first line of a chapter or the title of the chapter or the name of the book. i love the way my body is changing…WW and walking were great, but running has re-shaped me, and at 50, this is a good thing. once a long time ago, my husband said he wanted to fly on the corcord to see the curvature of the earth – my reply then is as now, ‘i want only to change the curvature of my ass’…and now that body part, along with my thighs, calves, arms, stomach, hips are littler — i’m falling in love with myself again and therein lies the confidence – that this thing i never thought i could do, i learned to do myself, by just telling myself, “YOU CAN”.
thank you!! joanne miceli
You should take a look at the Penquin’s column/blog on the Runner’s World website. John “the Penguin” Bingham is the author of “Courage to Change” and “No Need for Speed,” both books about his “penguin-y” running style and speed. He’s very inspirational… and will make you feel a lot better about your running. Hey, you’re RUNNING. More than a lot of people can/will do. You go girl!!