Running Races

Like I have said before, I'm not a "true" runner. I don't get up in the morning saying "It's such a beautiful day- I must run to feel alive!". No. Not even close. My mind and body loves the repercussions of running, but that is a result, not a motivator. My motivation comes externally. Knowing Larkin is looking up to me as her example of a woman is a big motivator. Another big push is to have a goal. Any goal- so that I can keep receiving the benefits of a clear mind and strong body.  Not an inches or weight goal, but a realistic, measurable, personal, and specific goal. That, my friends, is why I race. 

Last year, my goal was to run the Memphis Marathon. I ended up getting a winter-long cold/flu and could not keep up the mileage, but even though I missed my mark, the training that I did complete, lead me to race the Tunnel Hill 10 miler. What an accomplishment for me! Before training, my longest runs were 3 miles!
Anyway, I have mentally committed to running the Heartland 1/2 Marathon in Effingham, IL on September 12th. (for those of you interested, there is also a 5k)
JOIN ME!!!!

Here are my usual steps to running any race.  
#1a) Realize that I haven't gotten off the couch for days, at the same time lethargically moping around, complaining to my husband that I feel yucky and don't like how any of my clothes fit.  This goes on until I read and inspiring article from Kristen Armstrong or get on the scale.  Then it's like cold-water on the face.  
#1) Find a race with enough time to train safely, but not too much time that will make me burn-out and throw in the towel.   Non-runners starting a 5K would be 8-9 weeks.  Walking a 5k would be 6 weeks.  Other guides for beginners to experts can be found on Runner's World online. 
#2) I get a running guide to help me reach my goal.  I have printed out a training guide from Runner's World SmartCoach online: 
It's tweaked a little, based on my real-life schedule.

#3) Find safe places to run based on the mileage for the day.  I only run one long run per week, which is on the weekend.  For that run, I find or make up running routes at home from the USA Track and Field website. It is by far the best running/walking route maker I have found.

• It allows you to use trails, off-road courses
• It tracks the distance while you are making the route
• It completes "out and back" routes for you

Here is an example of a route in Newton:

I have made some in Newton and in Goreville.  This is not one of them.  It says "Mike" is the author.  I assume Mr. Mike H. or Mike F.  (Hi Guys!)

This one starts and finishes at the high school and passes by the Dollar Store like you are going out of town.  Head back via Orchard Drive, (say Hello to my Mom while she's watering her flowers),  and finish your last stretch via Sycamore St.

So, with that being said, do YOU have any goals right now?  Please share!  It is motivation for others, including me :-)