Running

Tonight I did the first "real" distance running that I've done since I've been sick. It's been 2 full weeks. I had intended to do 1 mile increments, so I started off at 6mph, and then quickly increased the speed to 6.5mph. I was feeling really good at the mile mark, so I decided to try to stick it out for the 3.1 miles (5K). My fastest 5K time so far had been 30:33. I had been beginning to think that it would be impossible to break the 30 minute barrier. I absolutely blew it away tonight, though. My 5K time was 28:46!

There were several key differences that I think played a role in my time (although by the end I was completely dying). First, I ran to different music. I played Evanescence's Fallen this time. Almost all the songs were extremely energizing. They have a trance-like beat, too. It was easy to get into a good stride. Second, I think my lower body strength training is paying off, as well as the ice skating. I think it helped quite a bit. And, finally, perhaps the 2 week break from distance running played a role.

I'm really proud of myself. This was a landmark run for me. And, I did it all on my own, which is huge.