Starting to run

Alexandra · May 15, 2005

So yesterday I'm on the treadmill, cruising along at a brisk 3.8, 3.9 mph, when the music picked up. I made the speed a little higher, about 4.2, and suddenly found myself in a sort of jog! I kep that up for oh, wow, a whole 90 seconds and then I had to go.

But I'm eager to try it again! I've never been able to run and have always been scared of what it might do to my knees. But that 90-second experience showed me I could do it, that the treadmill won't break, and that my knees won't give way immediately. It would have been no big achievement for anyone else, but holy cow! I couldn't believe I went more than a few steps at a jogging pace and didn't immediately get winded.

You have to start somewhere, my wise friends said. If there are any formerly MO people here who now run for fun, please share the stories of how you started. And when! Is it absurd to think that at this weight I might actually be able to run a little?

paula · May 15, 2005

WTG Alex! Now this IS truly a Non-scale Victory

Look out, before long Penni's gonna recruit you into her marathons! :D

leatha_g · May 15, 2005

3.8? 3.9? lol.. I'm so short, I'm almost running at 2.8.

Infaith · May 15, 2005

Hooray Alex! What a great feeling and NSV!

Penni60 · May 15, 2005

WHOO HOO!!! ALEXANDRA isn't that the greatest feeling to know you "can" do something. The first time I did my "wog" (walk/jog) I was thrilled and excited and wanted to do more. I am so happy for you.

Zoe · May 16, 2005

Wow! Wonderful NSV! I hope some former MO athletes come out of the woodwork and share their secrets with you. Meanwhile, you're probably wise not to push yourself too much. But I bet you can go beyond 90 seconds next time. How exciting to be able to run at all -- and look at you, you've lost over 100 lbs.!

kellymoos · May 16, 2005

Congrats to you! You are doing an amazing job!

birdee · May 17, 2005

CONGRATS!!!!!!!!!!! You keep doing your thing!

Iluvharleys · May 17, 2005

Way to go Alex! It won't be long till you'll be running a long time!

Alexandra · May 17, 2005

Well, the second time I tried it wasn't as successful; could only go about 60 seconds. But I'm game to keep it up! Yesterday I did two loops around a mountainous trail near here for a total of a 3.5-mile hike, and really was amazed at how able I was to do it! The first half of each loop was a continuous climb and I did it both times without stopping. Cool!

A whole new world of physical achievement is waiting, ayup.

Zoe · May 17, 2005

You are an inspiration to the sedentary set who are now ready to get a move on. I see a triathlon in your future!

gypj · May 17, 2005

WOGGING!! So that's what i've been doing all this time...It really is pretty exhilirating to do it and know you've reached another milestone...congrats!