I am new to the blogging and running world. I am starting this blog as a way to track my progress as I train to run the Detroit Half Marathon in October. I started running last fall occasionally and I wouldn't say that I love it....yet. But I am getting used to being comfortable with feeling uncomfortable.
I religiously did BodyStep at my local gym a few times a week for years. Last spring I developed plantar fasciitis in both feet. A few visits to an orthopedist determined that I have high arches and need inserts for my shoes. After getting my custom inserts, I was fitted for new running shoes and was told I was buying shoes that were almost 2 sizes too small. Oops!
The PF didn't go away with the inserts. Only complete rest worked. I decided to give a treadmill running class a chance at the gym and to my surprise the PF didn't re-appear. I did some research on running and decided to start with the Galloway run/walk method which worked well for me. I increased my mileage and gained confidence (all on the treadmill). I couldn't run for more than a quarter of a mile at first. I have never been a runner or inclined to do anything more than step aerobics. Clearly step aerobics does not use the same muscles as running does.
In November I ran my first 5k at the Detroit Turkey Trot and then did a follow up 5k on New Year's Eve. I will write a separate post regarding those races later. But that is how I found my motivation to continue. I liked the aspect of racing despite being nowhere near a fast runner. Just putting in the time to train and build my base and then race and see even a slight time drop or a sense that the race was easier gave me a sense of accomplishment that I could never achieve from random weekly aerobics classes.
After the Belle Isle race on New Year's Eve I signed up for the Detroit Half Marathon before the rates went up, thus putting a stake in the ground. In doing research about running, I have come across some wonderful blogs that I enjoy reading. I have learned so much from other people. I hope when I get some blogging skills I will have the courage to link to them. Even though I do not know these people, their commitment to training and sharing their knowledge has been very motivational for me.
