I got so excited about yesterday being National Peanut Butter Day, I didn't even think to write about anything running or exercise related! But, now that my hand is out of the peanut butter jar (momentarily), I'm slightly more focused.
I'm into the final two weeks of my mega-training before I start to taper. This is both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, I'm starting to see the light at the end of this 13.1 mile long tunnel. On the other hand, my body is confused as to why I'm continually beating the crap out of it. ON PURPOSE.
Take yesterday. Yesterday after school, I went to the gym and ran five miles. Then I taught Jazzercise. And then I woke up this morning and taught Jazzercise again. My body is suuuuuper grateful that it doesn't have to work out now for 24 more hours.
The crazy thing is, I used to balk at the thought of running five miles. Why in God's name would I EVER have to run five miles? Even if my life depended on it, chances are, I wouldn't be running for five miles (because I either would have outrun the threat, or, you know, been caught long before then, whatever).
Now, the thought of running five miles and then teaching Jazzercise for an hour doesn't make me think of permanent bodily damage. It's not a cake walk, but it certainly doesn't knock me down for the count.
And the irony is, I think running is making me a better aerobics instructor, if you can believe it! Here's why: Running is my solitary activity. I do it alone. I like doing it alone. But I think I like doing it alone because Jazzercise is my social exercise time. I can see my friends and other mothers (shout out to the southsiders!) and spend time with them and laugh with them and have fun with them. I value my classes and the people in them more because of running.
Additionally, I had more energy during class yesterday, if you can believe it. Something about running five miles really revved me up for class, so I guess it's true what they say about exercise induced endorphins. Last night's class had a great energy to it -- great students, great time, great work out. Can't beat that!
Weirdly, I think running is also making me a happier person. I know I've discussed this before, but there's something about being in motion, moving, thinking about something in depth (or thinking about nothing at all), and being physical that just seems to be working.
So, all in all, running = good. That's the moral of today's blog.
I agree. I run alone & I like it. I don't want to get dependant on someone else. I also worry about holding someone back as I don't run very fast. I don't want any mental junk, just me/my music and the road. I also find that I am happier when I have a plan or a goal. When I decide on a race & start to train for it & pay my entry fee I feel committed to it. I don't try as hard when I'm just running to run, or running for fitness. I think there's an excitement about being signed up for a race. Maybe it's the medal/bling for me - you know how I love those! I only have 2 so I'm seriously wanting to add to my arsenal...lol.
ReplyDeleteTry to enjoy your taper when it gets here. You have worked super hard to get where you are! I'm super excited to hear all about it soon :) Do you know you will be getting 2 medals before I even do my first 1/2 marathon? Lucky you!