Runnin Fool

Last week I decided it was time for me to start running. I have been talking off and on about taking up running for a couple months now but last Monday on my way home from work I decided it was the day. My motivation was two fold: exercise for myself and exercise for Beamer. Austin is an extremely dog-friendly city and everywhere you look someone is eating at a restaurant with their dog, jogging with their dogs, hanging out in the park with their dog, etc. Those of you who know Beamer know that he is a bit of a spaz, but a really good natured dog. I'm kind of jealous of the people with normal dogs who can enjoy those activities with their canine friends. I thought if I could run with him it would be good bonding time for us and a good way to wear him out so he doesn't drive us crazy.

The first day didn't go so well. One mile was a bit of a lofty goal. I did discover, however, that one mile was just a tease for Beamer. I think he would glady run ten. The first day I ran the first half, walked the next quarter and made myself run the last quarter. On day three I actually completed a consecutive mile. This is week two and I have gotten into a decent workout routine. I'm walking a half mile warm up, running a full mile, and walking a half mile cool down. I still feel like I might die during the mile run, but it's getting a little better. I'm amazed at how much better I feel after walking a cool down than if I just stop after running. I also think doing 2 full miles wears Beamer out a little more.

I'm thinking about getting in shape to run a 5k in a few months. I wouldn't be running to be competitive, just running to do it. Having something like that in mind would give me some motivation when running on my own. I've been looking up races online to see what one I would actually want to do and can do based on my schedule over the next few months. I also need to give myself some time to actually get in shape to complete 3 miles. I think Beamer could run a 5k tonight.

I'll keep you posted on my progress!