Monday, June 15, 2009

That Was a Really Bad Idea

It’s amazing what one can learn about oneself in a very short period of time. Several things became clear to me Sunday morning during the 5k run that I thought was a good idea. I hate to bother you with the random bullet points, but that’s actually how my brain works. Also, each one of these thoughts crossed my mind during my “run”.

  • Deciding to participate in a 5k run on a whim is not a good idea.
  • Cardio exercise on an elliptical or a bike does not translate into being in running shape.
  • I should not take a 21-week break from running and then jump right back into a 5k.
  • Running on a multi-surface course is not ideal for the out-of-shape (concrete, dirt, sand, gravel, horse poop).
  • Yes, I said horse poop.
  • Indoor, air-conditioned exercise is nowhere near the same as outdoor, desert exercise.
  • Because of my non-existent training I had to succumb to a combo of jogging/walking.
  • I think I walk faster than I run. Is that possible? Wow, I’m lame.
  • At least I don’t do the funny arm and hip swinging when I walk really fast.
  • My mother so kindly referred to me as “skinny” in one of her recent blog posts. God love her, but I have to say that there were many non-skinny people that kicked my you-know-what at that 5k. That confirmed what I already knew - "skinny" has nothing to do with being in shape.
  • I was really proud of the non-skinny people making me eat their dust.
  • It occurred to me at one point that the longer I took to complete the 5k the more cardio minutes I could report for the cardio challenge. I realize that isn’t the proper motivation one should focus on for a running event, which leads me to some of my concluding thoughts.
  • I hate running.
  • I was not meant to be a runner.
  • I admire those who do enjoy running.
  • I need to find a new activity that I actually like.
  • I’m contemplating cycling, but that would require me to purchase a bike and that will have to wait. For now, I’ll have to stay indoors in the comfort of my gym.

That’s it for now. I’ve had a couple of lazy weeks during the cardio challenge, so I’m hoping to make up some ground this week. Cross your fingers.

5 comments:

  1. Not a runner??? Perhaps honing your golfing skills for the BIG EVENT in Aug. would be an option. Just sayin'.

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  2. LOL - I know, real life trackage (complete with various obstacles) is way different to the gym.

    Well done on doing a 5k too! Who cares how we get there, so long as we are taking part!

    (sigh, I wanna bike too)

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  3. Aren't you being a little hard on yourself? It HAS been awhile since you've run.

    Who was the idiot that thought you'd be fine running a 5K? :)

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  4. Good point RazZDoodle. I should really seek counsel elsewhere next time. :)

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  5. After all of these years of brotherly torment, I'd have thought you might take his advice with the proverbial grain of salt....apparently old habits die hard. Next time he will probably have you racing down a flight of stairs wrapped in a sleeping bag.

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