Follow up to Runcarla's fitness 2019 post - YouLookFab Forum

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Follow up to Runcarla's fitness 2019 post

Janet

(website)

Veteran

I was feeling quite discouraged when Carla started that thread a while back, but it turns out at least I'm finishing the year strong! Hubs came home from a meeting a month ago with a colleague who habitually runs 8 miles a day, inspired to get back into shape, so he vowed to run a mile every day for a month.

Well, I decided I couldn't be a lazy slacker while he is doing this, so we agreed to do it together (actually running together when possible, but at the very least holding each other accountable when our schedules don't make that a reality).

I missed one day -- the day before yesterday -- because it poured rain nearly all day, and I had dental work that left me first numb and then sore and not wanting any kind of high impact activity. So I doubled up yesterday and ran two miles instead. Actually, most days I've run the better part of two miles because if I'm going to get sweaty, I prefer to get in a full half hour of cardio while I'm at it.

I've been pleasantly surprised that my fitness level had not fallen as badly as I thought it had. I walk a lot and include intermittent bits of running, but I have not been running steadily with the goal of unbroken running in several years. We were on the road for a few days and used hotel treadmills, and by doing that, I discovered that I can run a mile with no walk breaks if I stick to a slow 4.5 or 4.6 mph pace -- bump it up to 5mph and I have to walk a bit. Yeah, I'm slow AF but I always have been. I am still kind of amazed I can do it at all (I never ran in my life until I was 46, then did a few half marathons and a bunch of other events, and stopped when I had a hysterectomy).

I don't enjoy running, but I like the sense of accomplishment I feel when I finish! I'm going to find a 5K for hubs and I to run together, maybe in February or March. Here's to finishing out the year on a healthier note, and starting the new one in a similar fashion!

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28 replies

Latest reply was from Laurie

cjh

(website)

Veteran

Yay for you and husband! Keep up the good work, and get serious on training for a 5K. That’s healthy and fun, and not so demanding as a huge long race.

I find running is not only a physical maintenance program, but also necessary for my mental health. Thanks for mentioning that you began running at age 46. I started running at 49, and have taken only a couple of extended breaks due to recovering from plantar fasciitis since then, and now I’m 65 (yikes! Really?) I am not fast either, and getting somewhat slower. I run 3 days a week, usually 4 or 5 miles, unless forced by weather to treadmill.

But hearing others’ stories is always encouraging, and I hope anyone else reading might be encouraged to keep on or begin running, also. Karie had some great stories a few months ago that I loved. Start slow, with a Couch to 5K plan. Change your life.

Janet

(website)

Veteran

CJH, it's good to hear from someone else who started running well over the age of 40! And yes, you are absolutely right about the mental health aspect of it. That is very important to me, since winter is always a bit of a challenge.

I think the fact that I've been walking at least 3-5 miles on hilly, wooded trails an average of 3-5 times a week has helped me maintain a certain level of fitness, even without much running. We have a Peloton and I hop on that for half hour workouts when the weather doesn't let me get outside too. I'm a big fan of mixing up workouts and venues so I don't get bored. In the summer I'll swim, too.

RobinF

Veteran

Good job! Whenever I have tried running I hated every minute and then got shin splints. I think It's just not for me. I have been doing weight lifting for the past few years though. Only twice a week but pretty religiously (which for me is big) and can tell a difference. Now if I could stick to a diet I'd be all set...

Janet

(website)

Veteran

Robin, that's awesome that you've found that weight routine and can see results! I could stand to add more weight training to my routine, and my arms are... just, ugh. Photos of me in sleeveless outfits make me reconsider ever putting such a thing on my body again. I have some small hand weights I use with Peloton workouts, and sometimes I'll take one of their 15-minute weight workouts to work my upper body more (always a weak spot, since everything I like to do is more of a leg workout). But it's definitely a weak spot for me.

Helena

Veteran

Janet, this is a great post - good for you; consistency is always a bigger struggle than big achievements imo, so you are doubly inspiring! Hope you find some great 5ks to do - have you ever done a mud run? A few of my friends do them annually and always have a great time!

Like Robin, I'm not a runner but exercise if 100% a mental health necessity for me. I walk, do at-home bootcamp-y things with my son, and at the gym I like yoga, pilates, weight classes (light weights with lots of reps, and they also have cardio elements) and Zumba (silly but just plain fun). I get super-bored on treadmills, etc. or doing the same thing, so the different classes really keep me motivated. I try to do something every day (even if small) and then a few gym classes a week.

For me it's all about staying healthy as long as possible!

nemosmom

Veteran

That is outstanding, Janet! I feel like such a slacker! I am not a runner (unless I am being chased ), but I am starting to feel the effect my driving/desk-dwelling lifestyle is having on my body....

Are you doing any kind of training program to track your progress?

Laurie

Veteran

Your program is so, so sensible and doable, and therefore you are doing it. I think we get that wisdom with age. In my 20's and 30's I used to not bother going running if I didn't have time to do at least 5 miles. Stupid! Time constraint alone thwarted me so many times when a 2 miler to clear my head would have been really healthy and productive.
I envy you and the others who can still run. I think that not beating the pavement in previous decades has probably preserved your joints to a great extent so that you can enjoy a little more impact exercise now. I have a friend who is 68, started running less than 10 yrs ago, and wins her age group in a lot of 5K and 10K races now! @CJH - running for me was always about my head first, and the rest of me second. It remains the best stress management tool I ever had, and I miss it all the time.

I am finishing the year of my strengthening program pretty strong, 15 months since back surgery. I am very faithful to 5 at-home workouts a week, plus 2-3 yoga classes with the instructor who is also my corrective exercise trainer. I bring my small bag of gear when I travel and most recently did my exercises on rooftop decks of hotels in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv! The convenience and portability is everything. I would like to add much more cardio in 2020 if I can calm down persistent pain in my left lower back. Seeing doc in early Jan, it's been going on for too long.

Something - even short/small - every day is the way to go! Keep it up.

Sal

Veteran

Nice work Janet, great to hear. Before you know it you will be running 5km! And I think that is a great way to start.

I have had a good year with exercise. I exercise every weekday with the routine being
- Monday gym workout (weights and cardio)
- Tuesday - walk or run
- Wednesday - TRX gym workout
- Thursday - walk or run
- Friday - yoga class

Weekends were long runs for a few months, or walks with friends or bike rides.

I have walked two half marathons in the past but in November I wanted to do a half marathon and run the whole way. I hurt my calf two weeks prior and whilst I finished I estimate I only ran about 7km of the 21km. I was quite cross and disappointed in myself and have not done much running since (but continued walking/gymming etc) My calf is now healed and I have just started gentle running again. I plan to run a 12km or similar in the new year and achieve my goal of running all the way. My attitude was not altogether healthy as I should be proud of all the training we did including long 18km runs!

In general I am feeling fit and healthy and toned.

I have not lost much weight from all the running though. Interestingly after three months eating myself around Italy (croissants/wine/gelato/pasta) I actually lost weight from the activity which was constant.

We also did a 3 day walk with three families - days ranged from 17 to 8km walking. It was fun!! Attached are a few pics. We were given sticky buns as it was fully catered.

Yes food is important to me LOL

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Janet

(website)

Veteran

Sal, that trip looks amazing! And you accomplished a lot in your training — I know that’s disappointing to not run as much of that race as you wanted, but you’ve done great and now have an excellent baseline of fitness to train for another one if you wish.

I’m not sure if I’ll get so far back into this to do more half marathons, as it’s quite a time commitment, but I remember really enjoying 10ks — just enough of a challenge that it requires steady training but not as big of a deal as a half. I may aim for that again

Laurie, I’m glad you’re recovering well! Your plan sounds good. I need to get back on my bike more in 2020. For some reason I’ve become quite shy about road biking for safety reasons — so many bikers being hit by cars here. There are awesome mountain biking trails around here but that’s a bit too rugged for me. We have some good rail trails and the like but I get a little bored with them. Still, once I get out there, I find my routes and enjoy it!

Runcarla

Veteran

Well, this made my day, Janet! Such wisdom in your approach. Too often folks make it ‘all or nothing’ , and that is just too hard to keep up - with all the other things we have to juggle in our daily lives.

If I can manage 10 more workouts before the end of the year, I’ll hit the target I set at the beginning of the year.

Stagiaire Fash

Veteran

Amazing that you are doing so well with a workout method you don’t like! I had heard from so many people that once you get into running, you love it & get addicted that I did a 5k for my 35th birthday. Trained in advance, but not enough, came in over half an hour, will never do another, tyvm.

Sal, awesome pictures! I can see being cross at not being able to do what you set out to, but be cross at the timing, not at yourself.

I recently recommitted to losing the rest of the weight I gained in the years after moving to Florida. When I joined YLF, I had lost 40 pounds. I stayed there for a while, then started to drift up. I decided it was no big deal, we were going to move soon, and I always lose weight in Germany. Then we got here and it went up more. I told myself no big deal, it was my first time back in a 4-season climate, and I gain in winter and lose in summer. Then I didn’t lose over the summer and told myself this is a big deal—time to lose it all!

So far I’m down about ten, nearly to the weight I was when I started ylf. 30 more to go. I’ve been doing simple “Booty Burners” at home and relying on calorie restriction. For Christmas, DS is getting a weight bench and I can’t wait to use it.

And now in need to go do today’s workout. Thanks for the nudge.

Sal

Veteran

One step at a time isn't it with fitness - I can relate to the hard to lose weight - and the ebbs and flows of bodies and fitness. I try very hard to think about food as nutrition and fun and pleasure rather than guilt or deprivation or calories..... I don't always achieve it though!!

karen13

Veteran

Great job, Janet - impressive what we can do when we focus and prioritize. And yay to having a workout buddy who keeps you motivated and accountable.

I wish I could run but I both hate it and it hurts! Only when something is chasing me! I desperately need a summer/hot weather sport that I enjoy or at least tolerate. Nordic ski season is underway here in Lake Tahoe, so I'm hoping to find my mojo. I have seven days of the last day out xc skiing and even though my body hurts, my soul is the better for it!

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Stagiaire Fash

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Karen, only when something is chasing you? I only like running when there's something for me to chase, lol, like a tennis or soccer ball. I've never tried XC skiing; does it feel different from running?

Sal, when I don't like the dieting, I focus on the fun to come. I don't feel good when I'm overweight. Losing a significant amount of weight like I did a few years ago meant it's easier to move, clothing was fun again, fewer aches and pains throughout the day. I'm looking forward to all that (and more, if things work out with someone ).

Runcarla

Veteran

@karen13 - classic or skate?

anne

Veteran

Well done Janet. Keep it up!
In my running news, I have finally, after trying for maybe 5 years, broke my 10km goal, and exceeded my PB by over a minute. Very exciting. Now working on 5k times.
Unfortunately it's really hot here, an unprecedented heatwave of 40 for days. Due to be nearly 30 at parkrun tomorrow so I think I will just walk the 5k.

Janet

(website)

Veteran

Good job, Anne!

Karen, that looks lovely and would lure me onto XC skis for sure -- I did that a few times when I was younger but we just don't get enough snow around here, sigh. From what I recall, SC skiing quite different from running -- the movement is different, more fluid and no impact, and you work some of the same muscles, but some different. It can be a really excellent workout. More like skating than running IIRC.

Sal, I'm all about the food! I find it very difficult to deprive myself. I try to practice moderation.

So...my husband texted me last night that he signed us both up for a 10k in April. So I have my work cut out for me! At least it will not be as much of an uphill battle as when I first started running -- it was February 2011 and I'd never run before, and I signed up for a half marathon in early June 2011! It was a HUGE accomplishment for me.

Anonymous

Sounds like a great running plan, and come bike with me when its warm
Love the pics Sal!

smittie

Veteran

Great news. A 10K will be fun to train for. And in april it’s not so hot.

Bijou

Veteran

I have been training steadily for 5 years in karate and finally got my black belt this week. It has taken lots of daily training, classes and commitment. This was something that I did for me and I used the bravery of my Dad, who fought his Parkinson’s disease every step of the way as motivation to dig deep and keep going. I found the training therapeutic in helping me accept the loss of my father. I am so lucky to have a committed and uncompromising instructor who never gives up on his students.

What a great way to start 2020 Janet, I love how you are doing this with your DH.

kkards

Veteran

i'm in awe of anyone who runs, i don't like it, don't do it, but totally respect those that can and do.
on the other hand, i love to walk, and in my younger days would walk an hour or so 3 or 4 days a week. i need to figure out how to motivate myself to get that going again.

Stagiaire Fash

Veteran

Bijou, CONGRATULATIONS!

Janet, good luck on the race!

The event I want to train for in 2020 is an annual swim / race in the Spree river, in the middle of Berlin. It's 1500 meters. I'd like to do well in my age group, but have a lot of work to do.

Janet

(website)

Veteran

Bijou, that’s an amazing accomplishment, and what an honor to your father as well.

I started running about a year after losing my mom, so I understand. That was my year of working my way back to myself after feeling overwhelmed with not only the loss, but also working through cleaning out and selling her home and managing all the other logistical matters, which were physically, psychologically, and mentally draining.

Taking care of myself right now is especially important because I’m facing another likely close personal loss (a dear friend is fighting cancer and the prognosis is not encouraging). Times like these make it all too easy to drop our better habits.

kellygirl

Veteran

Kudos for taking charge of your fitness and health. It's daunting for sure but as the saying goes, you have to start somewhere! It's especially hard during the holidays and colder weather--I get unmotivated too. This is a good reminder for all of us to keep on pushing!

citygirldc

(website)

Veteran

Hey there. I just signed up for the Rock and Roll Half because I really need to get back into shape. My last race was the Cherry Blossom 10-miler back in April and I stopped running cold turkey. It feels good to start running again, but definitely feel it in my joints.

Sorry to hear about your friend.

AndiB

Veteran

I'm back on the treadmill at the local Y 2 to 3 days a week, as of mid December too. I've never been a big runner, but did the couch to 5 k maybe 6 or 7 years ago, ran for a few years after that regularly (and like others have mentioned, only running if I could run 5k, or 3 miles when a mile or 2 run would have been perfect, and probably kept me on track!). Fell off the running wagon (though I did keep up with 2x a week yoga, boot camp classes and spinning). It feels good to be back to running. Now, a month in (also surprised, Janet, at how little progress I lost, even though I'd pretty much only run every few months for a couple years) I am committed to staying on the treadmill for 45 minutes plus 5 minute cooldown, which gets me 3.5 miles ish. Walk and run, but now I am running way more than I walk! I am eager to get back to running outside, once this Michigan slippery sidewalk winter is over!

Janet

(website)

Veteran

Hey all! I'm late in checking back in on this thread. Naz, that's awesome you're doing the Cherry Blossom race! We're doing a 10K in Baltimore in April, and I think I'm going to ride the NYC to Philly Bike Ride in May, so that will get me back on my bike training as well.

AndiB, I tend to stay out and walk after I run my goal distance so I get in at least a half hour of activity, often much more. We have some amazing mountain biking trails in our neighborhood that I run but mostly walk on because I tend to trip and fall on the trails, I'm such a klutz. But I can easily stay out for an hour or two and rack up the miles walking around in the woods. I am a brisk walker and there are LOTS of hills, so I get a workout that way. My husband has noted that I get winded less quickly than he does on hills because of all that hill climbing. My fitbit will often tell me I climbed 40-something flights of stairs in a four-mile circuit.

A couple of days ago, I was pleasantly surprised that I ran two miles straight with no walking or stopping, so I'm definitely making progress. Now working on three miles! Then four, then five, then six...

Laurie

Veteran

Janet, back to agree with you about the cycling. It's just so dangerous, both from cars/traffic/careless drivers and because you are a fragile human on a metal frame hurtling down hills at high speeds on super skinny tires. Roads are covered in debris. Anything can happen. It's amazing that more bad things don't happen, actually. I was always terrified that a deer would jump out while I was flying down a hill in the countryside of Virginia! One of our coaches - big burly guy - collided with a deer like that. Many broken bones on the human's part.
I didn't ride last summer because of all the hard work I've done to recover from hip and back surgery, and because of all of the titanium in my body. One dumb accident would undo all of it. I really love cycling so much, but I was just scared. Plus my vision is not what it used to be and I can't imagine cycling in my progressive lenses.

Keep up the great running and hiking progress. I hiked 7 miles at Sugar Loaf on New Year's Eve and it was a beautiful way to end the year.

CityGirl - the Cherry Blossom 10 miler is probably my all time favorite race. I did it many times. 10 miles is a perfect distance - real challenge, bragging rights, but not crazy on the body if you're in shape.