Running Blog "Foreword" 4/21/09

4/21/09
My Running Blog Foreword (so to speak.)

I took up running as a New Year's resolution. Running is not something I that I have ever enjoyed in the past, yet for some reason, it fits me like a glove now. My first running goal was to run a 5k. Done. I ran a 5k in Hilo, Hawaii on March 22nd, 2009 (See photo to the left). My sights are bigger now... Currently, I am signed up for the 2009 Beat the Bridge 8k race on May 17th and the Seattle Rock and Roll half marathon on June 27th. I am training every day. In September there is a full marathon that I have my eye on, but first I'd like to see if I survive my current challenges! I have decided to blog my progress, although I don't expect anyone to read it besides me. I suppose I'll go back a bit first, however. When I first started running, the cold air outside was killing my lungs. As it so happens, Asthma and cold air do not mix. This did not make things easy. It also didn't help that I caught a horrific chest cold. My ankles hurt like hell in the beginning too. I got braces for them from the podiatrist at my work and that seemed to help... However, my right knee started to act up. I diagnosed myself with IT Band Syndrome. I went to physical therapy, wear a brace when I run, and things are going better. I have stretches and strengthening exercises that I did very diligently in the beginning, but I have been slacking lately. My left knee is acting up now. I think it is Runner's Knee. I should really go back to my PT... I also got inserts for my running shoes. I like them. Wow... I sound SO over 30! This blog may not be interesting to anyone but me, and that’s fine. This is a good way for me to track my physical progress, and perhaps other progressions as well.