Back on the treadmill...
Last year I completed the Couch to 5k program, and then promptly got lazy after I achieved my goal. I'd go back intermittently but I could never reach my 30 minute/ 3 mile pace because I wasn't working consistently.
I started it again a few weeks ago. My main goal, right now, is to just keep going, just keep trying. And to be as consistent as possible.
I was dreading the run on deck for tonight: week 4, run 1 - a leap from 3 minute run intervals to 6 minute run intervals. It was HARD. Really Hard. 6 minutes can feel like an eternity on the treadmill. But I did it.
The most challenging part for me, actually the two most challenging parts for me are:
1. Getting out the door.
Why? WHY? must it be a battle every time? (answer: because I fear failure.)
2. Combatting the negative dialogue that dominates my thoughts during my run. "I can't, I can't, I can't" syndrome.
When I run my legs hurt, my calves are tight, I might get cramps or aches; and I'm still struggling to get back into a good breathing pattern. But 99% of the time these are minor issues and nothing to keep me from physically running (in fact most of these things get better as I warm up). So, I *know* the only thing that is keeping me from moving forward and succeeding - is me. And the most challenging part is to overcome the voice in my head that says "I can't". When I am able to drown out the "I can't" it is a much more enjoyable experience.
So, anyway, today I ran a run I didn't think I could complete.
It was hard. And I'm proud that I did it.