I can officially cross one of my 101 in 1001 off my list. Yesterday I ran over 1 mile without any walking breaks! 1.25 miles to be exact. It took me about 16 minutes to do it, but I wasn’t worried about speed, I just wanted to finish with no walking.
After my workout on the treadmill I did 30+ flights of stairs. I am hardcore baby!
I haven’t written about Couch to 5K yet (I’m waiting to get father into the program before I do) but believe when when I say that at the beginning of January, I struggled to run 90 seconds without stopping. If you’re joining me in That Weight Loss Challenge and your knees are up for it, give this program a try. Stick with at for at least two weeks, and I promise you’ll be amazed with the results.
Technically I was supposed to run 20 minutes straight, for Week 5 Day 2, but I psyched myself out and stopped with something like 4 minutes to go. Before I started my run I was so nervous that I almost cried. If you’ve finished the 20 minute run and have any tips I’d love to hear them!
February 8th, 2011 on 8:34 am
Congratulations, that’s fantastic! I remember how awesome I felt when I ran a mile for the first time. I love seeing other people feel that way too!
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February 8th, 2011 on 8:36 am
Congratulations! That is awesome. Isn’t it great when you achieve something that, at the outset, seemed nearly impossible?!
I did C25k two summers ago and really enjoyed it. For the last little while I’ve focused more on high intensity interval training (HIIT), but since Christmas I’ve started doing C25k style walk-runs again and I’m really getting into them. I’m not following C25k this time, as my base level of fitness is much better, but I’m still using the same basic concepts to design my own training plan and, once again, I find myself being astounded by the week-over-week gains that I’m making (I’m a nerd and track it all in a spreadsheet!).
Yay for you!
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February 8th, 2011 on 8:37 am
Yay!!! I loved the C25K program - glad you are too!
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February 8th, 2011 on 8:37 am
I used that program when I started running…and now, I’m registered for a half marathon, full marathon, and a bunch of shorter races this year! It really does work!
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February 8th, 2011 on 8:41 am
Super congratulations! That’s one of my goals, too-to run a mile and beyond. Way to go on achieving it. Don’t you feel super healthy and on the way to something great??
Tiffany
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February 8th, 2011 on 8:41 am
First of all congratulations on this milestone.
Speed definitly does not matter when you start to run, you don’t want to push yourself past your limits (and hurt yourself like I did which was stupid).
My main thing when I run is that I tell myself that if I’ve gone so far I can definitly do a little bit more. I tell myself only “x minutes” “x miles/ quater of a mile to go). Reming yourself on how good you did so far.
Also I haven’t had kids yet but I tell myself that if I want to have any I’ll probably will have to go trough something harder and that it’s a good way to prepare for it. So in your case, you gave birth medication free, if you can do that you can keep on running for a little bit longer. I mean come on, you had how many hours of hard labor with barely any food? You can run those 20 minutes and more, it’s nothing compare to what you did.
I run outdoors which helps because I get to see a different landscape and I find it easier to move forward and I know that there are literaly still a mile/quarter of a mile to go before I finish the loop.
I also try to think things through when I run to keep my mind occupied, focus about goals I have, think of things I need to do in my life, etc.
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Jenna Reply:
February 8th, 2011 at 8:52 am
I look forward to warmer weather so I can run along the lake!
You’re right, I did labor for a long time with little food and sleep. 20 minutes is nothing compared to that!
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February 8th, 2011 on 8:42 am
That’s awesome!!!! I was proud of myself for running 1/3 of a mile without stopping yesterday. I’ve never even been able to run 1/2 mile without stopping, so I’m just trying to build up. You’re an inspiration!!!! I’ll let you know when I can run a full mile
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February 8th, 2011 on 8:46 am
Congratulations, Jenna! Way to work hard for your goal…you are such an inspiration to us! Can’t wait to see what you accomplish next.
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February 8th, 2011 on 8:47 am
That’s so awesome. Congratulations!
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February 8th, 2011 on 8:50 am
Great job! I did C25K a few years back but had more success with Podrunner Intervals: First Day to 5k program. Only because it was easier for me to just listen for a chim to tell me to walk than it was to time it out myself! At any rate I am now able to run up to 4 miles without stopping. I have 5 5k’s under my belt with my best time being 36:36. I LOVE running! And it floors me! I’m not an athlete and I used to say that you’d never catch me running unless someone was chasing me. My advise to you to get to 20 mins without stopping it to just do it! Don’t think about it. Focus on your breathing (I find 2 breaths in and 3 breath out, making your 3rd out as long as you can, works best for me. I notice when my brain starts telling me I can’t do it, my breathing is usually all shallow and huffy. My mind is wondering to dinner, laundry, work and child. Once I shake all the junk out of my brain and focus on my breathing and only my breathing I feel like I can run forever. Good luck and keep us informed on your progress!
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Jenna Reply:
February 8th, 2011 at 8:56 am
Thanks for the great tips! I really appreciate it. I use the C25K iPhone app for the reasons you mentioned, because he comes on over my music and tells me when to run and when to walk. It’s very convenient!
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Katy Reply:
February 8th, 2011 at 3:01 pm
I’ve yet to overly desire an iphone (figure we’ll get one when we get one), but that right there makes we want to get one! It comes through the music? That’s cool!
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Becky Reply:
February 8th, 2011 at 9:17 am
This is awesome advice and very similar to what we practice in yoga. If you focus on breath and clear your mind, the rest will happen. You are so much stronger than you think. Your mind will give up way before your body does. Quiet the mind “chatter” and the physical aspects of the exercise will come naturally. It’s just a handful of breaths that are the difference between running for 16 minutes and running for 20. I know you can do it!
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February 8th, 2011 on 8:52 am
Way to go on your first mile! That’s amazing! I’m doing C25k for the 2nd time around. I did W6 D1 last night. Here are a few things that help me.
*Cover the distance/time on the treadmill with a towel. I do better if I’m not always looking at how far I’ve gone or how much time I have left.
*Good running music! Something to keep me going! I’m usually also reading closed captioning on a TV at the gym, so my mind is overly occupied. The less I think about the running, the better!
*I went to a running store and got fitted for running shoes. It was an investment, but seemed to help when I ran in those shoes yesterday.
That’s all I can think of for now! I did finish the program last time, so I know you can do! Great job and keep it up!
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Lida Reply:
February 8th, 2011 at 10:05 am
Do what works for you to finish that 20 minutes. I tried covering the treadmill display but found that actually made it worse for me - I just NEEDED to know!
Another thing is, don’t get discouraged if it takes you a few tries! I think it took me 4 tries to finish the 20 minute run, but the good news is that it all gets easier from there
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February 8th, 2011 on 8:53 am
I am just…really proud of you. I have been working out since the end of December and have seen some victories. I started on the elliptical at like 5 minutes on resistance and now can do 40 minutes on level 5. It is coming along and yet running…running scares the crap out of me. Thank you for your posts, it makes me feel less alone and a little more like I can do it.
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February 8th, 2011 on 8:55 am
Oh and last thing…I use Robert Ullrey’s podcasts to run, which tell you when to run/walk! The music is decent too! They are free to download too!
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February 8th, 2011 on 8:57 am
I’m not a super runner, but I have found a couple of things through working out that I think you might find useful:
- I can download audiobooks from the public library for free! I used to think that there was no way I could run without some loud, high-intensity music blaring. Last week I ran an extra mile because I wanted to hear the ending to “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle”. It’s a nice way to “read” another book while exercising. I especially love it on bike rides.
- Even after breast reduction surgery, I find myself wanting to immobilize my chest while running. Moving Comfort sports bras ROCK. I buy mine from either Zappos or REI. (PS: don’t you wish nipples were like air valves? You could pump up the girls for a date, and deflate them for a run…)
Congrats Jenna, keep up the good work!
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Jenna Reply:
February 8th, 2011 at 9:01 am
Hahaha! You are funny. I have a killer sports bra from Title 9, but I really should get another.
I think I’m going to pick an audiobook and buy it and ONLY listen to it when I’m running to see if that helps get me through the 20 minutes. I’m also someone who thinks they have to have high intensity music blasting in their ear but maybe I’ll be like you and find that getting lost in the story is even better.
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sarah Reply:
February 8th, 2011 at 10:21 am
What a great tip about the audio books. I never thought of that. Thanks!!!
I’ve been watching old episodes of Top Chef on my ipod at the gym, but perhaps listening to a good book would benefit me more than watching people cook & eat food! ha!
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February 8th, 2011 on 8:58 am
Congrats! You look great - I think you might win your own competition!
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February 8th, 2011 on 8:59 am
Yay Jenna! That’s a really big deal. I’m proud of you-and impressed. I hate running, but I know it could be such good exercise for me. I have the 100 pushup challenge on my 101 in 1001 but I might change it to C25k because I hear it can be bad for your wrists! Anyway, congratulations to you and keep up the AWESOME work.
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February 8th, 2011 on 9:03 am
Congratulations!!! That is such an accomplishment.
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February 8th, 2011 on 9:04 am
Congrats! That’s so inspiring. I can’t wait to start my own C25K goal as soon as the weather warms up (I don’t have a treadmill I can use right now).
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February 8th, 2011 on 9:08 am
obviously I don’t see you in real life or very often, but I opened up this entry in my reader and just thought WOW she is looking good! very inspiring as I am in a tough place right now and really need to find small ways to get started at the gym.
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Becky Reply:
February 8th, 2011 at 9:19 am
I agree. You look awesome!
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February 8th, 2011 on 9:12 am
I had the same issue when I completed the C25K last summer. I did the 20 minute run and could never get any further… so I signed up for a 5k race which forced me to! I also started running outside, which I know may not work for you until the spring, but the changing scenery helped a lot. C25K is a great program. Last summer, 1 mile was incredibly difficult for me. Now, after 3 5ks, and 2 5 mile races, I’m training for my first half marathon.
Good luck! You’re doing awesome already
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February 8th, 2011 on 9:15 am
This is awesome! You should be so proud of yourself!!
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February 8th, 2011 on 9:22 am
Woo-hoo!!! Way to go Jenna!! Fabulous accomplishment and you look wonderful!
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February 8th, 2011 on 9:25 am
I love C25K! My husband and I did it last summer until I got shin splints really bad and running was just too painful for me so I quit
Now that it is colder out we are going to a gym and while I absolutely hate running on a treadmill, I am not having the shin problems I was having. I can’t wait for the spring though. I am cancelling my membership and getting my butt outside!
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February 8th, 2011 on 9:29 am
Congratulations, Jenna!
Just keep working at it & your endurance will build up! I actually enjoy running on the treadmill because it’s easier to maintain a steady pace & not get burnt out too quickly!
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February 8th, 2011 on 9:34 am
That’s awesome! I was so nervous I wanted to cry before running on the treadmill for the first time last week… but I did it! I’m still on week 1 of c25k… think I need more than 3 tries at it before running more than 60 seconds at a time! Keep up the good work!
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February 8th, 2011 on 9:34 am
Go you! My mom is doing the program right now.
The 20 minute run scared the heck out of me. I think I repeated the prior week before attempting it.
I also only let myself listen to music during the running part. It helped.
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February 8th, 2011 on 9:37 am
I did C25K and was doing amazing with it last year. You’re inspiring me to re-start - I want to run a 5K in April, so I need to get going!
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February 8th, 2011 on 9:40 am
Congratulations Jenna!
I am a very slow runner who has done 2 half marathons (slowly…). At one of the pre-race dinners, John Bingham (of Runner’s World’s column “No Need for Speed”, said that fast runners have nothing on slow runners. If it takes you 3 hours to run a half marathon, you’ve got to be in better shape than those who take 1.5 hours - look how much longer you can run! I thought that was a lovely way of looking at it!
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February 8th, 2011 on 9:43 am
Wow great job Jenna! That totally gives me the inspiration since you were the one who said C25K is awesome! I love the idea someone mentioned above about the audiobook, I can definitely see the inspiration to hear more of the story
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February 8th, 2011 on 9:44 am
Congrats, that’s a huge accomplishment!
I’m not sure if I ever told you this, but for some reason when you first mentioned C25K, I didn’t realize you had a gym in your building. I totally thought you were running along the lake like a crazy fitness trooper in this cold.
I am crazy jealous that you do have a gym, but I need to kick my own butt into gear and do some yoga to keep myself in shape until they clear all this snow!
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February 8th, 2011 on 9:44 am
Jenna, that is awesome!! Congratulations! I wish I could join your challenge and do C25K, but I have the knees of a geriatric and a bad back, so running is out of the picture for me!
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February 8th, 2011 on 9:56 am
Congratulations! That’s awesome!
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February 8th, 2011 on 10:05 am
Congratulations, that is an amazing accomplishment! You look fantastic
Would you mind sharing what type/style sports bra you use? I saw above you mentioned it’s from title 9 and I am “blessed” with a big chest and am hoping my weight loss will help decrease them a bit. I can’t even imagine when I get pregnant 
I just started C25k and I’m starting with week 3. I was working out with a trainer last year and was able to run a mile, but have since lost that stamina. Keep up the great work you are going to rock your 5K. I’m training for one in April so I’m really excited to have a goal to work towards.
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Jenna Reply:
February 8th, 2011 at 4:50 pm
It’s this one: http://www.titlenine.com/product/sports-bras-and-undies/medium-high-impact-sports-bras/313801.do?sortby=ourPicks
I cross my heart and hope to die that you will NOT bounce when wearing this thing. I have to kind of shove myself in there and do the snaps up, but I think it’s worth it because I hate bouncing so much (plus bouncing a lot will make your breasts extra saggy when you get old!) When I first got it I had a hard time adjusting to how it squeezes your upper frame together, but I’m over that by now.
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February 8th, 2011 on 10:07 am
I use to run track/cross country in high school, but I sprained my ankle bad one summer so I haven’t ran in a couple years. I miss it though, I’m so jealous that you are starting out! It IS fun. Don’t listen to people who hate running, just think what makes you happy about it. Also, once you get that first mile down, running is SO much better. At first, running a mile sounds like a huge distance, but when you work your way up to 3, you realize it’s just part of the warm-up!
Here’s my tip:
1) Running always sucks for the first 10 minutes/1 mile no matter how good you are. Don’t allow yourself to EVER decide to stop in that first bit (well, unless you know, major health issues, but don’t think “oh this just feels crappy today I’ll do it tomorrow”. When you do that, you don’t do it the next day either. Get through that “wall” and you’ll find a pace you can just go at.
2) My first 20 minute run was really intimidating, but then later in the season, 20 minute runs were the “easy” days. Just try to reverse your thinking about it. It seems intimidating, but think about how fast 20 minutes flies by on WB or Twitter or Blogs. It’s the same 20 minutes. Just 20, not 2 hours! Don’t convince yourself it will feel like 2 hrs!
3) Slow down if you need to.
4) Keep your mind active. I was never big into music, but fast music does help me when I’m on the tread mill. Or download a “this american life” or something like that. Or even better, find a podcast that it is about 20 minutes long.
5) Cover up the time and don’t allow yourself to look unless you are CONVINCED 10 minutes have gone by. Nothing worse than checking and realizing its only 2 minutes later. Or thinking “shoot, I’m already tired and I have 18 more minutes!!”
6) Drink water before, during, after.
7) Maybe run a couple minutes then stretch and then go for it. That way you don’t spend the first few minutes sore and grumpy. It seems counter intuitive to add more running, but your body can recover from a few minutes of running pretty quickly. If you really don’t want to, at least do the elliptical beforehand.
9) My cross country coach always said, and its so true, “if you can run one mile, you can run three”. The jump from one mile to three is 90% psychological. If you can do 16 minutes, you can definitely do 20.
10) If you run outside, it helps to think “okay, I’m just gonna run to that tree and then re-evaluate if I want to stop or not” then when you get to the tree, think “okay, just till that sign.” It helps if you aren’t “DO OR DIE” about it. And odds are, you aren’t gonna need to stop.
11) Reward yourself with something after. Even something simple like, “I’m gonna watch that episode of TV SHOW X when I get off the treadmill”
Good luck!
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Jenn R Reply:
February 8th, 2011 at 1:53 pm
This is a good list! I agree that you should never quit until after you’ve run the first mile (it almost always sucks) and I agree that you should try thinking about how “short” 20 minutes is. When I first started running, I would always try to think about how someday this distance will just be a warm-up. Also, this might sound counter-intuitive, but you might want to try speeding up at the end - just a little bit. It gets you where you’re going faster and might actually feel better to your body once you’re all warmed up.
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Jenn R Reply:
February 8th, 2011 at 1:55 pm
Oh - and I also really like to chant the mantra “skinny, skinny, skinny” when I get really tired. It works!
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February 8th, 2011 on 10:22 am
You should be so proud of yourself! I took on this challenge after I had my first baby 15 months ago. I’ve always HATED running. Well I got up to 8 miles straight…no walking! Your body is going to transform! I’m so excited to keep up with your running journey. Keep us updated!
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February 8th, 2011 on 10:23 am
You look Good Jenna! Keep it up! Soon you’ll know exactly what runner’s mean when we say ” Runner’s high”.
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February 8th, 2011 on 10:30 am
Just wanted to pop in and say congrats! You’re doing a great job staying on track with exercising and eating!
This really makes me miss running. After this little baby comes, I think I’m going to have to do the C25k and get back on the bandwagon.
Running outside makes such a huge difference too. SO much more enjoyable and you live nice and close to the lake which is great for running. I’m most definitely looking forward to spring!
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February 8th, 2011 on 10:36 am
I also got really freaked out by the 20 minute run. IT’S ALL IN YOUR HEAD. Seriously! You HAVE to trust the program. Get yourself a mantra to chant (“I am a runner” “I’m stronger than I know” “Powerful legs”) and a couple of power songs that really get you pumped for those last 4 minutes. You can do it! I promise!
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February 8th, 2011 on 10:38 am
When I run I don’t like to look at the time. Instead I find a number of songs that I like that add up to about the time i want to run. When I am done with the songs I am done with my work out!
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February 8th, 2011 on 10:51 am
WAY TO GO!!
That’s a huge accomplishment
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February 8th, 2011 on 10:53 am
Jenna-you look SO great! I can really see the difference this is making
also, agree with those above that say it is all in your head. Don’t run for the numbers, run because you can do it. Everytime you’re about to quit, give yourself one more minute. Usually once I get past that threshold of “I can’t do it anymore!” about 3 minutes later I get another burst of energy and can get through two miles!
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February 8th, 2011 on 11:00 am
Good for you Jenna! That’s an awesome milestone!
Here’s my tip for you (in the words of my fav yoga instructor) - you are TEN TIMES stronger than you think you are! You seem to hold a self image of someone who’s “not good at athletic stuff.” Wipe that out of your mind. The main thing that devides that athletic from the non is belief and self image. You’ve seen how powerful your body is (T1′s birth, ex) so embrace it.
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February 8th, 2011 on 11:14 am
This may be one of your skinniest pictures yet. You look great!!
Running is so funny. I used to hate hate hate it, but cheapness mandated that it would be my form of exercise-I’m really starting to look forward to runs. If not the whole run itself quite yet, the way I feel after.
The songs/podcast thing is a good idea too. With a couple minutes to go I always end up wimping out after looking at the time.
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February 8th, 2011 on 11:29 am
Congratulations!! I did the C25K plan for my first 2 races, and am looking forward to running a half marathon this summer. You’re such an inspiration to runners of all kinds for starting the program and sharing your stories!
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February 8th, 2011 on 11:40 am
Woohoo! Congratulations - that’s SO awesome!
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February 8th, 2011 on 11:42 am
First of all, CONGRATS on a mile. That is a great accomplishment. You really do look great.
Second, if there is anything I have learned about running it’s that half (or more) of the work of running is mental. I know that I am capable of running longer or faster, and I psyche myself out time and again. My tip is this: break it into manageable parts. You know that you can run for 16 mins now, because you’ve done it. So to get those next four minutes? Do it a minute at a time. Or even 15 or 30 seconds.
The treadmill can be a killers cause those little numbers are RIGHT THERE taunting me, so I play a game with myself and decide to run one more minute, and then I can stop. Usually at the end of that minute, I still feel okay, so I make a deal with myself that I go for just one more. You’ll get there!
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February 8th, 2011 on 11:42 am
great job! Running is hard especially on a treadmill. I’ve been running for a few years and I still can’t stand much more than 20 min on the treadmill because it is so boring! But Chicago is amazing for running outdoors once the weather gets better. The lake front path is beautiful; it distracts me from the physical exertion. Plus, once you have run out x miles, you have to make it home by running the same amount back. I usually am able to keep running just by the knowledge that I’ll be finished sooner if I run instead of walking. Sorry that doesn’t help too much right now but hopefully in a month or so, once you have longer workouts to get through, you’ll be able to take them outdoors which will make things more pleasant
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February 8th, 2011 on 11:47 am
I’m just getting into running, too, and recently got a treadmill so I can do it at home. What helps me is to find a movie or TV show (I’m a sucker for Gilmore Girls) that I really enjoy watching, and only allow myself to watch it while I’m running. It motivates me to run because I’m itching to watch that movie or show. I also tend to run for a longer amount of time than I normally would because I’m so into the movie or show, I don’t pay attention to the timer on the treadmill. Find something you can really get in to, that will take your mind off the time!
Another thing that helps me is to sign up for a race that’s several months from now. If I’ve paid money to run a race, I’m more likely to prepare for it because I don’t want to waste the money.
These are just a few things that have worked for me. Good luck!
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February 8th, 2011 on 11:51 am
Congrats! I remember the first time I did the stair climber for 15 minutes. I though I was going to DIE… but I didn’t. Best feeling ever!
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February 8th, 2011 on 12:12 pm
you look amazing!!!
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February 8th, 2011 on 12:32 pm
You are sooo awesome! I love those two photos so much, you look so proud of yourself (as you should be!!). One of the reasons why I love running is that it is satisfying in some many different ways. Sometimes it’s great for forcing a bad day’s blues away and zoning out with some tunes. Other times, it’s great for working through thoughts in my head and just enjoying the outdoors. No matter what, I always feel a sense of accomplishment when I’m done. Keep at it girl, you are looking amazing!
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February 8th, 2011 on 12:33 pm
Just keep pushing yourself. I’m taking a running class and we’ve been doing a 12 minute pace at a 6:1 ratio (Run for 6 minutes, Walk for 1) and when I workout on my own, I push myself to do 7 or 8 minutes running and to keep my pace below 12 minutes. This past weekend I got on the treadmill and just ran until I couldn’t anymore and did 2.5 miles in 30 minutes, straight running. A few weeks ago, I was literally DYING after doing our class’s pace mile in 14 minutes!
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February 8th, 2011 on 12:36 pm
That is so awesome, Jenna. Congratulations! This makes me really excited to start C25K again when my doctor clears me for my back, so thanks for that
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February 8th, 2011 on 12:57 pm
Congratulations!!! I used to run, but it was destroying my knees so I had to stop. I’m only just getting started working on my cardio, and I can’t wait for the day I can hit 20 minutes!
Let me just point out that weight is NOT an indication of fitness! You and I are the same height, and I weigh significantly less than you, but you are in MUCH better shape than I am. Which is okay with me, because I’m working on it!
Just wanted you to be reminded that even though your end goal is to drop the weight, you’re already well on your way to healthy (and much healthier than me!).
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February 8th, 2011 on 1:05 pm
Congrats, Jenna! You are doing awesome! I just try to think about how awesome I will feel afterwards. I love C25K. My favorite workout is W6D2. It’s my go-to workout when I don’t want to do the longer runs. I’m really trying to work on pacing. I have a much better pace when I’m running outside, but that currently is not an option.
Here are some ideas for C25K:
1) Free podcasts rock! I love Chubby Jones (sometimes she has a pottymouth, but she is very motivating so I ignore that part). Mia uses music that I don’t necessarily listen to all the time so I like that.
2) I learned that I can not run and watch sitcoms at the same time. True story.
3)Pick a goal for each workout. Yesterday, my goal was to run at 5 mph without putting my hands down on the treadmill (some would think that is slow; some think that is faster). I had not run in almost 2 weeks (had not worked out minus snow shoveling in a week) so it was back to Week 5 Day 2 (the goal was barely accomplished). Tonight’s goal is to complete JM’s Banish Fat, Boost Metabolism without having to pause the dvd. Tomorrow’s goal - run for 20 minutes without stopping!
You are such a role model, Jenna! Keep up the good work. I’m loving the challenge.
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February 8th, 2011 on 1:08 pm
Woohoo!! I ran cross country in high school and then took a hiatus from running for several years. When I got back into it I used the couch to 5k program and it worked really well. I’m on the longest break I’ve had from running in over 5 years (going on 3 weeks now) because I kind of fell out of love, but I was running up to 18miles at a time not too long ago. Running is amazing for weight loss too, great job!
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February 8th, 2011 on 1:19 pm
I’ve always found that running is a mind over matter situation. I agree with the comment above that once you get through the first mile, the rest becomes a whole lot easier. But I should warn you, running can become addicting! I used to hate running and joked that the only time I’d run is if someone was chasing me. But, I’m happy to say that I just ran my third half marathon in 10 months, and I spent yesterday trying to decide on my next race.
Keep up the great work!
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February 8th, 2011 on 1:34 pm
I’m doing C25K again (did it last year, but stopping running over the summer) and I just did the 20 minute run. The first time you do it it’s really easy to psych yourself out, but honestly, after doing the 2 eight minute runs, it’s not that bad at all. It’s definitely not sure easy, but not as hard as you would expect.
I don’t have an iPhone so I don’t know how the app is, but I’ve tried both Robert Ullrey’s podcasts as well as “Running Into Shape.” I really love Running into Shape’s podcasts! The fifth week has the same music for all three runs, but she tells you when you can stope, what week is doing what, all of that. Week five has Rhianna, Katy Perry, Avril Lavigne, Metro Station and some other. It’s very fun to run to; I run pretty slow and it’s not too fast or too slow paced.
What I’ve been doing, which you may want to try now or after you’ve gone through the program, is this:
I do the first run at 4.2 mph on the treadmill, and then do it again two days later at somewhere between 4.7-5.0. That way I’m upping the intensity but not time. I’m really hoping to be able to run faster. Right now I have like a 14 minute mile, which is NOT GOOD. I want to eventually be able to do a 10 minute, but it’s going to take a lot of time and hard work.
You can totally do it!!!! Seriously. Just don’t look at the time and just go for it. At my gym I usually put on the tv with subtitles and try to concentrate on that instead of my time. You can do it!! With some songs I get really jazzed (like Metro Station’s “shake it” song) and then I’ll really get into it, pumping my fist and stuff. Just try to enjoy it, it will make it so much better.
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married in chicago Reply:
February 8th, 2011 at 4:06 pm
That’s a good idea! My one frustration I had when doing the C25K program is that I didn’t feel like it was making me a faster runner and I think this is a really good twist on the program to fix that!
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February 8th, 2011 on 1:43 pm
Congratulations! That’s really exciting that you’re able to run 1.25 miles without stopping. Thanks for sharing - I think every victory (no matter how small) should be celebrated!
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February 8th, 2011 on 2:21 pm
Congratulations, Miss Jenna!! You’re looking so great, and I’m so impressed with your progress!
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February 8th, 2011 on 2:36 pm
Congratulations! I started C25K about 4-5 years ago and I could never stick with running before that…and now, I am addicted to running. In fact, I just did a marathon!
But even though I can now run for hours at a time, I will never forget that first 20-minute run. I remember being SO SCARED, with no idea how I would run for that long. I remember about 14 minutes into the run it just hit me that once you relax and settle into a comfortable pace and know that it’s going to be a little while, you can do it. It’s ALL mental. And there is nothing wrong with going slow!
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February 8th, 2011 on 2:41 pm
Woohoo! Good for you, Jenna! I’m a little jealous, I’ve yet to reach the 1-mile mark. So happy for you
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February 8th, 2011 on 3:02 pm
Way to go! That is so exciting! Keep it up
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February 8th, 2011 on 3:08 pm
You really, really do look great! You are getting were you need to go with your goals and making progress. For that, I’m really, really jealous.
Starting a fitness/better eating progam isn’t too hard (for me at least) it’s KEEPING WITH IT even when life gets shaken up temporarily. You’ve kept with it and I’m jealous, envious, proud of you - all of the above.
Running is something I didn’t even think I could like until after high school. I suppose them making us run made me hate it all the more, and once I could do it of my own free will, suddenly it didn’t seem so impossible.
Have you read “Spark-The Revolutionary Science of Exercise and the Brain” by John Ratey? I had read most of it (hadn’t finished it) but it was pretty good. Some parts were kind of techinical, but it’s a really informative and interesting.
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February 8th, 2011 on 4:02 pm
Congrats Jenna! I loosely following the C25K running program a while back. I remember when I started I couldn’t run more than a minute or two without being completely winded. I still remember how proud I was the day I broke three miles with out stopping and the shock that I could run two miles pretty effortlessly. After a while I got bored of running and moved on to other forms of exercise. But, your posts have inspired me to pick it back up again!
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February 8th, 2011 on 6:23 pm
I used the Couch to 5k program to help me train for my first 5k and now I’m using the Ease into 10k program to train for a 10k. I love both programs. My tips? It’s okay to repeat a week if you aren’t ready to move on. I had to week the 20 min. run multiple times. I also slowed down to the slowest possible jogging pace when I got tired rather than walking. But sometimes your body needs to walk a bit and that’s okay! I think slow and steady is the best advice. Don’t push yourself too hard.
You are awesome!
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February 8th, 2011 on 6:32 pm
Wow!!! CONGRATS!!! That is a BIG deal!! I don’t know when I have EVER been able to run 1 mile without stopping.
btw…you are looking really good. Can totally see the weight loss. You inspire me to get off my lazy rear and start exercising
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February 8th, 2011 on 6:41 pm
oh wow, congrats. That’s great.
I think I should try this out. I’ve always liked to run
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February 8th, 2011 on 7:41 pm
CONGRATS!!!
I remember what the first full mile felt like!
when I was in middle school we had to a 3/4 mile run and 2 minutes into it I would feel like I was dying. now when I run mile 2 and 3 and 4 and 5 and 6 and 7 and even 8 sometimes I cheer for that chubby embarrassed 12 year old I was. celebrate your body’s strength! I promise that now running 2 or 3 miles will never be as hard as the first one!!
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February 8th, 2011 on 7:43 pm
Jenna, Congratulations! You are SO happy, you should be - so proud of you! I’m still nervous to keep going but I can’t wait to get there at the same time!
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February 8th, 2011 on 7:56 pm
Yay! I’m so proud of you! I am doing C25K also (in week 4, but taking a break because I am sick, so I’ll probably repeat all of week 4 or even a day of week 3). Your mentions of it in your posts and formspring answers have really helped me stay excited about it.
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February 8th, 2011 on 9:19 pm
Celebrating the baby-steps is so important! The wonderful thing is…that’s how progress is made!
Go Jenna!
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February 9th, 2011 on 7:15 am
The first time I tried to do C25K, I couldn’t even run for 90 seconds. I signed up for a 5K and tried again with a group. Last week I ran 6 miles (80 minutes) without stopping. You can do it if I can!
Congrats on your one+ mile and good luck with your program!
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February 9th, 2011 on 9:40 am
No but really, how cute are you?
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February 9th, 2011 on 10:00 am
Hooray!
I am so unmotivated about exercising right now. But you look so proud in those pictures, it makes me feel like I should get moving because it will feel so good.
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February 10th, 2011 on 7:38 am
Way to go that is awesome!
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February 11th, 2011 on 12:43 am
running is SO hard! ahhhh
my tip is to think in your head you have to run farther…the last few minutes are always mentally the hardest…if you have to run 20 minutes, tell yourself you have to run 30…actually try to run 30 and you’ll make it to 20 no problem! {if that makes any sense!}
:} keep it up!!
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February 11th, 2011 on 1:03 am
Think about how proud you felt when you finished 1 mile (I know I did) and then think about how much prouder you will feel when you run 20 minutes! With every ‘milestone’ I passed in the programm I was so proud of myself and my body that I COULD do it. Set a reward for yourself, for me it was that I got to buy Runner’s World when I ran 30 minutes, because by then I felt that I had earned the right to call myself a runner
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April 3rd, 2011 on 7:28 pm
Jenna.
I absolutely ADORE your blog - it was the first one I ever added to my Google Reader!
Just wanted to let you know I linked to this post (and talked about my mad girl-crush on you, too!) over at my blog since I just started C25K!
http://stresscasey.blogspot.com/2011/04/c25k.html
-Casey
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April 13th, 2011 on 10:35 pm
Hi! I just found your blog linked up over on Casey’s blog (Stress Case) in regards to the C25K program. I am on week 4 and definitely dreaded the 20 minute run next week. They say it is more than a mental challenge than a physical challenge and I find that very true. I psych myself out so easily, but I am so impressed that I at least have made it to Week 4. How are you doing now? I’m your newest follower and can’t wait to get to know you better through your blog. Come over to my blog to see how I am creating a healthy home for my family if you get the chance!
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Jenna Reply:
April 14th, 2011 at 9:03 am
The 20 minute run is SO scary, and when I finished it the first time I was gasping and completely exhausted. I’ve been running for 3 months now, and I finish 40 minute runs and feel like I could have gone longer (it’s still REALLY HARD while I’m doing it though and I have to push myself not to walk).
Everyone told me the same thing over and over, it’s all mental, it’s all mental. In the beginning it might be a little bit physical because your body might not quite be there yet, but you’ll get there by pushing yourself farther than yo thought you could go.
I’m actually running my first 5k on Saturday. I feel really confident that I’ll be able to run the entire time! Good luck
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