On Becoming A Runner

I ran on the treadmill at a 6.0 tonight! Granted it was only for 20 seconds at a time, but still, a 6.0!!!

This is huge for me. I was the fat girl in high school who couldn't even do the weekly "run day" without getting an F. We had to run 1 mile in 20 minutes, should be easy right? No. It always took me the full class... period so, 40-45 minutes to complete it. I could not run it at all, heck I could hardly walk it.

I've never thought that running was something I could do. It's like my trainer said, we're turning me into a runner 20 seconds at a time.

Knowing When

Hilary and I must be on the same brain wave, because my post is quite similar to hers!

This week, stress has been my middle name. I've been trying to take breaks from studying and really focus on what is important but it's been hard to feel like I am on top of things.

I workout every day because I love it. It makes me feel good, it keeps me going, it gives me my "me" time, and it is just part of my life. Yet when I get stressed, I start to think "maybe I should just study instead of working out today." So I'm not sure that has ever happened, because I always realize how much MORE productive I am when I get a workout it. But when do you say no?

I've been wondering where to draw the line. When do you say "my body needs a break" or "my mind needs a break" or "I just need a me day?" Personally, I feel like exercise is my break and my me time. But I still wonder if going going going is always the best. Ya know?

I guess that's the beauty of all of us having different bodies and learning what is best for US!

Hope it's been a fantastic week :)

Are You Plugged In?

That's what one of my professors asks when students walk into class with headphones on. It's kind of ridiculous/crazy how many people CAN'T walk from class to class without something playing in their ears. Personally, I like a little quiet. What about you?

I'm not much of a music listener while I'm working out either. In fact, I LOVE to run and spin and lift with nothing but my thoughts. Working out is my time. I get to think about anything I want: dreams, school, family, boys, jobs, my future. There are no limits! That is why I love it. I get some of my greatest insights and inspiration while running. When I'm frustrated, I run to work through it. When I have a problem, I run to figure it out. When I'm excited, I run to celebrate and feel my body being excited. Ya know?

There are still days where I take the ipod with me on a run or to the gym. Although it is rare, it does happen. And today I thought I'd share with you my favorite cool down song. I think we all have lots of workout songs to pick from. But I like my cool down songs to be meaningful and soothing. It's my treat for a job well done!

So my top pick is....

The Finish Line
by: Train

It was one of the theme songs of the past summer Olympics. Enjoy :)