Becomming a Runner...

I have always dabbled in running - a few years ago I actually got up to 4-5 miles a day, 3-4 times a week (which is A LOT for me, not really enjoying the sport). No matter how you slice it, you have to admit, ladies - consistent running over a reasonable period of time makes our legs look fabulous! This is why I keep coming back...keep trying to make myself enjoy running.

Recently a friend of mine introduced me to a 5k prep running program that I have really enjoyed. It is called the Couch to 5k Running Program located at CoolRunning.com. I've really enjoyed the way that the program has built up my stamina. I've altered the program a little for myself - if one of the weekly steps was particularly hard (or if my schedule didn't allow me to do all three portions of a weekly step), I repeated it the following week to ensure that I was ready to take on the increased challenge of the week following. You may not have to do this - this was a personal choice of my own.

Right now I'm on week five - I did step 2 today, which was to run a mile, walk 1/4 mile, run a mile. I am happy to report that this was relatively easy for me & I was able to run faster than my usual pace - great personal success!

Once I'm finished with this program I plan to continue to build my stamina to increase the amount I can run - maybe even try a 5K or 10K at the end of the summer.

If you know if any good programs that cater to longer distances, I'd love to check them out :).