Day 22 & 23-- I am making great progress (as I am patting myself on the back), and am feeling great too! Over the last couple of days I found I can actually climb stairs and steps without using the hand rail, which is awesome because those things are disgusting, especially with the H1N1. I am doing my running and trying to incorporate the inhale/exhale exercises too. Normally I would run about 6m a day along with many various exercises. Well, today I decided I was going to run for 3m every hour(I only made it for 5h), but like I said in previous posts about the family drama and finding my zone, I did it today. My dad was right on how good you feel when this happens. I was so angry today that a tear made its way down my cheek. I thought that there was NO WAY that I was going to let that happen. I tightened the laces on my shoes and got those feet moving. I ended up running 1.57 miles in 10m. Yes you read that right, exactly 5 weeks after knee surgery I ran 1.57 miles in 10 minutes!!! That was definitely a triumph. It felt so good that I forgot why I was angry in the first place.
I think I am going to keep up with the pace requirements!!!
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Monday, October 12, 2009
1st 21 day Challenge= DONE!
Day 21-- Today started off great, I could not wait to do my run on my 21st day. Then we decided to have lunch at Red Lobster. Well, that is fine except the closest one to us is about close to 100 miles away. I ordered my usual Chicken Fingers (I don't like seafood as noted in previous post), but I must say that I got full pretty quick, only ate 1 out of 5 and the baked potato. We didn't do any shopping or go any where else. We headed home, once in town went to Wal-mart to buy more vitamins, don't want to catch anything this season. I haven't been sick in a few years, just got to keep up with the vitamins. Once we got home and made dinner it has got pretty late and we both have to be up early tomorrow. I didn't feel like doing my run tonight, but thought guilty for even considering taking a break. I guess that is natural, I guess I am really enjoying this because I do not want to deprive my body of not running. So, I guess the moral of todays story is that I felt like I did not have the time, but my body kept telling me that I needed to do it.
Tomorrow starts a new 21 day challenge: I will try and incorporate more protein into my diet and hopefully by day 21 or I guess it would be day 42 actually be able to get the right amount of protein per day. That is the plan and I guess I should make some lentils for dinner. Hmmm.... what could be my third 21 day challenge?
More grams of Protein per day plus sticking with my regular routine, not too bad.
Tomorrow starts a new 21 day challenge: I will try and incorporate more protein into my diet and hopefully by day 21 or I guess it would be day 42 actually be able to get the right amount of protein per day. That is the plan and I guess I should make some lentils for dinner. Hmmm.... what could be my third 21 day challenge?
More grams of Protein per day plus sticking with my regular routine, not too bad.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
More aware
Day 20-- I am really enjoying this whole exercising thing. Never in a million years would I have imagined that I would enjoy it this much. I begin to like something is missing if I haven't done anything and it is almost bed time. I will tell DisFanatic "I just need to run a bit before bed, I forgot today" I feel as if a part of me is incomplete without my daily exercise. My dad does a regular workout almost daily, but I guess we just never did. With my PCOS it is great that I get up and workout, but I just never did. Now that I have this personal goal to run a marathon, I want to exercise and get in shape. The thing that I realized is that I am training at an elevation of approx. 7000ft. above sea level, so when I am in Florida I should find it a bit easier to breathe. I guess what they say about 21 days to create a habit is true. Right now I cannot imagine going without a day of doing some activity. Now, normally I would be looking for the cutest shoes for the season, but now I find myself looking at running shoes and sports bras. My mileage is getting up there on my Nike. I bought these a year ago for a walking class, then I took them to Disney World for a week twice in the past six months. I know with all that I have been doing I am going to need new ones soon! I love shoes!
It is funny how one little life goal can change your entire way of living. It makes you a more health conscience and aware of everything you do.
It is funny how one little life goal can change your entire way of living. It makes you a more health conscience and aware of everything you do.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Almost into a full run!
Day 19-- I am so proud of myself, does that sound bad? I am now running a lot better and keeping a good form. I am trying to train myself the breathing techniques to inhale/exhale with certain steps. I read that is the best way to keep your breathing in check. If I can train myself in the early stages of training it should be a piece of cake when I actually really go out there and run. I am running multiple times on the Wii Fit and working up to running for 10m straight. I am doing great on balance and stability on my left leg, actually now that I think about it I may be doing better on my left than the right. Weird, huh? I am working on torso exercises and still on the yoga.
I remembered that with the marathon comes planning another trip to Disney! That is exciting yet overwhelming at the same time. Hmmm, where should I stay?
I am gearing up for this cold winter and looking for my warm clothes so I can go outside.
I remembered that with the marathon comes planning another trip to Disney! That is exciting yet overwhelming at the same time. Hmmm, where should I stay?
I am gearing up for this cold winter and looking for my warm clothes so I can go outside.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Oops I forgot a day
Day 17 & 18-- I didn't realize I forgot to write last night. I had been doing so well. Oh well, for all I know I am talking to myself anyway.
I am doing well and on my way to success. I just realized that I am losing weight and feeling great about it. In the 18 days since beginning this journey, I have lost 12lb. Not a whole lot, but quite a bit. The whole idea was never to lose weight, although that was always a plus, but it was to get my leg strong and healthy. I think I am coming along nicely. I am able to walk, jog, slightly run, squat, balance on one leg and climb stairs. I am proud of what I have accomplished thus far. I just need to concentrate more on my running and changing my diet to accompany my new running lifestyle. I guess moving slowly and adjusting at a steady pace is better than jumping into it then crashing hard soon after starting. I learned that I need more protein in my diet (0.36 x weight = grams of protein that should be eaten a day). For runners and highly active people it is about 0.60 times your weight. Starting with increasing my protein I should be well on my way. Okay, so maybe I should stick with the 21 day routine thing first. I am almost done with the first 21 days, so when that is up I think I will include my increased protein as my next short term goal. Seems possible to me. Keeping with the walking/running then adding my next steps slowly. Hopefully, by this time next year I will have all my little steps incorporated into my daily life.
I just bought the new Wii Fit Plus and love it. So much better than the first one. The best part is where I get to practice my golf swing based on my balance. The marching band one is really good because right now it helps my knee with the walking. OH did I mention that it tells you now how many calories you burn for each activity. It is great and it also can tell you how many calories are in each food. It is great, I recommend it over the original Wii Fit!
I am doing well and on my way to success. I just realized that I am losing weight and feeling great about it. In the 18 days since beginning this journey, I have lost 12lb. Not a whole lot, but quite a bit. The whole idea was never to lose weight, although that was always a plus, but it was to get my leg strong and healthy. I think I am coming along nicely. I am able to walk, jog, slightly run, squat, balance on one leg and climb stairs. I am proud of what I have accomplished thus far. I just need to concentrate more on my running and changing my diet to accompany my new running lifestyle. I guess moving slowly and adjusting at a steady pace is better than jumping into it then crashing hard soon after starting. I learned that I need more protein in my diet (0.36 x weight = grams of protein that should be eaten a day). For runners and highly active people it is about 0.60 times your weight. Starting with increasing my protein I should be well on my way. Okay, so maybe I should stick with the 21 day routine thing first. I am almost done with the first 21 days, so when that is up I think I will include my increased protein as my next short term goal. Seems possible to me. Keeping with the walking/running then adding my next steps slowly. Hopefully, by this time next year I will have all my little steps incorporated into my daily life.
I just bought the new Wii Fit Plus and love it. So much better than the first one. The best part is where I get to practice my golf swing based on my balance. The marching band one is really good because right now it helps my knee with the walking. OH did I mention that it tells you now how many calories you burn for each activity. It is great and it also can tell you how many calories are in each food. It is great, I recommend it over the original Wii Fit!
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
"and she is down"
Day 16-- I have actually exercised in some way or another everyday for 16 days now. I am excited that I have committed for this many days. I don't always go on a daily walk outside or on the treadmill, but if I do not do that I always step up the activity on the Wii. Today I jogged for what felt like forever, okay so it was only about 12m. It definitely felt much longer than that, then I trip over my feet afterward and fell. Have I mentioned before that I am EXTREMELY clumsy? Because I am. In college I fell down the stairs to my apartment about twice a week, then there was the once time I fell off a ladder, and then fell out the back door and down the steps outside. It is not a shocker that I fell, actually when I fell off the ladder it was two weeks after my first knee surgery. I guess I should not have been climbing ladders. Anyway, I worked hard on the Wii Fit and called it a day. I put my leg up and iced it just in case I may have hurt it. I guess I am just too excited to get running.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Running with a Migraine
Day 15-- Feeling tired and a bit worn out. I came to ask myself today, how do runners do it when they do not feel well. I mean today I woke up with a horrible migraine, but had to just work through it. Do runners really just run through something like that? Do they really still go out there and run even when they feel sick with the sound, light and smells? Well, I did. I didn't want to make excuses. I didn't much, but I did run. Oh yeah, by the way I ran, yes ran today. Okay, so it wasn't the greatest in distance or time, but the fact is that I did in fact actually run. I decided to take it slow, so I started with a 1:1 ratio. I walked 1m and then ran 1m. I did this 4 times. It doesn't sound like much, but trust me my knee is feeling it. I figure if I do this for a week then I can move up slowly to something like a 1.5:1.5, then maybe a 2:2 then a 2:3, 2:4 and well you get the point. The goal is to begin slow until I can get to the point where I can merge with regular training programs. Most of the training programs I looked into are for about 10 to 12 weeks, and with the marathon in March I am still doing fine. I think this should work out just fine.
I really need to start putting all this energy I have somewhere. I know you are supposed to cross train, but that is just not cutting it when it comes to distracting me from family drama. That negative emotion is exhausting and I want to put it to good use. That kind of stuff really gets me moving, but the only problem is I don't really move along to fast. After talking to my dad I felt the reassurance about my decision to run. It was nice to hear someone actually understood where I was coming from. Lately I was beginning to think that no one could understand why I am the way I am. More so, the way I was feeling. Even if no one is actually reading this blog, it is nice to have an outlet for all my thoughts.
I really need to start putting all this energy I have somewhere. I know you are supposed to cross train, but that is just not cutting it when it comes to distracting me from family drama. That negative emotion is exhausting and I want to put it to good use. That kind of stuff really gets me moving, but the only problem is I don't really move along to fast. After talking to my dad I felt the reassurance about my decision to run. It was nice to hear someone actually understood where I was coming from. Lately I was beginning to think that no one could understand why I am the way I am. More so, the way I was feeling. Even if no one is actually reading this blog, it is nice to have an outlet for all my thoughts.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Inclines are like kryptonite
Day 14-- After a long weekend of activity and very little sleep I am still recovering. I am trying, I really am. I worked out for about 40m today on the Wii Fit, that did include a bit of jogging. After climbing that hill yesterday morning I am still struggling. That hill was like my kyptonite, it drained all energy from my body. My knee is still not the same today. I found it difficult to climb a few steps. My Wii even told me my balance on my left leg was unstable. When your Nintendo is telling you that you are not the same then it must be true. I didn't want to take a complete day off, I just hit the end of 2 weeks since I started. I just worked a little harder today on the Wii than I had been. No games today, all I did was yoga and strengthening, oh and a bit of jogging. I figured that if I keep doing something than I will not give up.
I am finding it difficult when I am the only one in my family who is concerned with healthy habits. This is probably why I never exercise and we eat unhealthy, well I don't not all the time. If you have ever been to a New Mexico Blake's Lotaburger then you know can see how you can easily fall off the healthy horse. Now I don't like hamburgers, but a Lotaburger with Green Chili and cheese is something I could eat everyday of the week. In my family, it is steaks and bacon. I don't really like bacon either. I think I am a misfit in my immediate and extended families. I can remember as a teenager I would go through fazes where I would be a vegetarian. I could do that for months, but the only problem is that I do not eat seafood. It grosses me out. Actually, I think the problem may lie in my childhood, we had many pets which included fish and a pet cow. I still don't know why we were allowed to name a cow when he was going to be dinner when he grew up. When I said we had many pets, I really did mean many. We had cats, dogs, a turtle, a bunny, many fish, a cow and baby chicks and ducks. So as an adult I don't see chicken as dinner I still think of it as a pet, same as beef and fish. Goodness talk about needing some therapy. Now back to the problem at hand, I am an odd eater because of my many issues with food. If I could only find some sort of median between likes, dislikes, and food allergies I think I would be okay. I know if I want to become a runner I am going to have to step up the protein, but that is where the problem lies. I think with me it is actually not overeating, but under eating and not getting enough positive energy. I think my body just takes what I feed it and stores it for the winter, and this PCOS doesn't help one bit.
Maybe I should title this blog "cows and hills = kryptonite"
I am finding it difficult when I am the only one in my family who is concerned with healthy habits. This is probably why I never exercise and we eat unhealthy, well I don't not all the time. If you have ever been to a New Mexico Blake's Lotaburger then you know can see how you can easily fall off the healthy horse. Now I don't like hamburgers, but a Lotaburger with Green Chili and cheese is something I could eat everyday of the week. In my family, it is steaks and bacon. I don't really like bacon either. I think I am a misfit in my immediate and extended families. I can remember as a teenager I would go through fazes where I would be a vegetarian. I could do that for months, but the only problem is that I do not eat seafood. It grosses me out. Actually, I think the problem may lie in my childhood, we had many pets which included fish and a pet cow. I still don't know why we were allowed to name a cow when he was going to be dinner when he grew up. When I said we had many pets, I really did mean many. We had cats, dogs, a turtle, a bunny, many fish, a cow and baby chicks and ducks. So as an adult I don't see chicken as dinner I still think of it as a pet, same as beef and fish. Goodness talk about needing some therapy. Now back to the problem at hand, I am an odd eater because of my many issues with food. If I could only find some sort of median between likes, dislikes, and food allergies I think I would be okay. I know if I want to become a runner I am going to have to step up the protein, but that is where the problem lies. I think with me it is actually not overeating, but under eating and not getting enough positive energy. I think my body just takes what I feed it and stores it for the winter, and this PCOS doesn't help one bit.
Maybe I should title this blog "cows and hills = kryptonite"
Sunday, October 4, 2009
What a workout
Day 13-- What a workout I had today. We arrived at the Balloon Fiesta and had to climb up and down a steep hill to get in. Oh man, I was terrified that I was gonna roll down that hill. The angle of my foot and the strain on my knee was horrible. We also walked about 1 mile and stood for hours. By the time we got home I crashed. I had only been working on 3 1/2 hours of sleep. I hopped on the Nintendo Wii Fit and it kept telling me that I was unstable for my left leg. I figured that with all the things we had been doing maybe it wasn't such a good idea to continue working out. I am out for today, but will be back and going strong tomorrow.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Another day down
Day 12-- I walked a lot today. I walked 1 mile while pushing 30lbs. (baby in stroller with stuff in the cargo area). Then we got to the hotel and walked 1.1 miles on the treadmill. My leg feels exhausted. We ate tons of food and when I weighed myself I still weighed less then I did 3 weeks ago. I am so proud of myself. This weekend with my family on a weekend getaway is the last of my bad habit eating. I decided to wait until after this weekend so we could enjoy all the treats that come with a festival.
This morning I found a brand new pair of jeans that I had bought in January and misplaced, but fortunately they no longer fit. In fact, if I hold them up against me I look like one of those weight loss commercials. I am going to go see if I could exchange them for a smaller size, a way smaller size. Never would I have imagined that I would come for a weekend getaway and actually use the fitness room. I must really want that medal at the end of that race. Every day I think about all the running I wish I could do now. They say you should visualize yourself running and that will encourage you to run. Well, I even have dreams of myself running. When we drive by a road, I see myself running that same route. I am already motivated, I just need the knee to go along with it. I tried using a knee brace the other day and that did not work too well. I felt like it held me back more than it helped. Same with the Ace Bandage, it seemed like I was kind of limping along the way rather than actually walking or running. Maybe my leg still feels like it is in injure mode and automatically wants to limp. Oh I don't know.
I am just super excited that I will be able to get the okay from my Dr. on running the 5K in March. I am certain that he will give it his stamp of approval because he told me the day of surgery that he would like to see me back on the golf course within weeks of surgery. Only problem with that is, its cold already. Living in the mountains will do that I guess.
This morning I found a brand new pair of jeans that I had bought in January and misplaced, but fortunately they no longer fit. In fact, if I hold them up against me I look like one of those weight loss commercials. I am going to go see if I could exchange them for a smaller size, a way smaller size. Never would I have imagined that I would come for a weekend getaway and actually use the fitness room. I must really want that medal at the end of that race. Every day I think about all the running I wish I could do now. They say you should visualize yourself running and that will encourage you to run. Well, I even have dreams of myself running. When we drive by a road, I see myself running that same route. I am already motivated, I just need the knee to go along with it. I tried using a knee brace the other day and that did not work too well. I felt like it held me back more than it helped. Same with the Ace Bandage, it seemed like I was kind of limping along the way rather than actually walking or running. Maybe my leg still feels like it is in injure mode and automatically wants to limp. Oh I don't know.
I am just super excited that I will be able to get the okay from my Dr. on running the 5K in March. I am certain that he will give it his stamp of approval because he told me the day of surgery that he would like to see me back on the golf course within weeks of surgery. Only problem with that is, its cold already. Living in the mountains will do that I guess.
Friday, October 2, 2009
I did it, I climbed stairs!
Day 11-- Whew... I had a busy day today. Most importantly I climbed stairs today without even realizing I had done so. I jogged on the treadmill for only about 1/2 a mile, but it was a lot faster than I was used to. I got off tired, but I did some laundry and was all better. I also did some more of the Wii Fit, I love that game. I mean where else can you have fun and work out. My little Mii was so cute today when I hit the 30m mark and needed a break. I did more yoga breathing, the half moon, something where I stretch my thighs, a torso twist, leg extensions, some step aerobics, squats, hula hoop and I ran for 5m. I was also ecstatic that I beat all my high scores today! Of course being the Disney fans that we are, we went to see the Toy Story /Toy Story 2 double feature in 3D. I was carrying our drinks and climbed up the stairs to the stadium seating without realizing I had done it proper and without holding the hand rail. I had completely forgot for a moment that I couldn't climb stairs and I did it. Knowing that I climbed those stairs was the highlight of my day. DisFanatic is the one who had to tell me that I had done it. I can't wait to climb some more.
Living in New Mexico we are known for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta with hot air balloons, so we are doing that this weekend. If non of you know what it is like it is amazing. The concession area is 1/3 of a mile, so if you want breakfast you have to be prepared to walk. Supposedly this is the largest Hot Air Balloon event in the world.
Today had been a great day. I am realizing that I am getting better and it is because I believe I can do it. Okay, partly because of my Wii Fit. Now I just need to go and buy the new Wii Fit Plus and the EA Active for the Wii. Gotta love Nintendo for keeping me fit. I was just remembering today when they came out with the running pad for the Nintendo (NES), seems like just yesterday when I was a kid running on that. Now, I am an adult running on the Fit Board for Nintendo. Boy have we come along way.
I think I will just have to do the treadmill at the hotel tomorrow.
Living in New Mexico we are known for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta with hot air balloons, so we are doing that this weekend. If non of you know what it is like it is amazing. The concession area is 1/3 of a mile, so if you want breakfast you have to be prepared to walk. Supposedly this is the largest Hot Air Balloon event in the world.
Today had been a great day. I am realizing that I am getting better and it is because I believe I can do it. Okay, partly because of my Wii Fit. Now I just need to go and buy the new Wii Fit Plus and the EA Active for the Wii. Gotta love Nintendo for keeping me fit. I was just remembering today when they came out with the running pad for the Nintendo (NES), seems like just yesterday when I was a kid running on that. Now, I am an adult running on the Fit Board for Nintendo. Boy have we come along way.
I think I will just have to do the treadmill at the hotel tomorrow.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
I Can Jog, kind of!
Day 10-- I was getting tired of the same old walk. People are always talking about the "runners high" and how good it feels to just run. Well, I can't run, yet. I want to get out there and do something. I feel worthless just walking back and forth, up and down the road. It is time to get a move on. I did not go outside today, it was cold and I haven't pulled out winter clothing yet. I hopped on the Wii Fit and did a light jog. Yes, I did a jog. Okay, so it was slower than my walk, but the point is I can kinda do it. I jogged for 06m and I am ready for bed. I also did some yoga exercises that included breathing and the half moon and something else. I did some strengthening exercises like the a torso twist and balancing on each of my legs. I did the step aerobics and was excited that I could take the step. I know I am afraid, but I need to get over it because it actually does not hurt to do it. I am so scared that my knee is going to give that I have not realized that my knee is okay. If it weren't fine I wouldn't be able to do all the things I am doing. I wouldn't be able to walk 1.5 miles in 30m or jog for 06m or more importantly be able to walk without my crutches only 3 weeks after surgery. I know I am okay. I can do this!!!
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Walk, walk, walk
Day 9-- I am exhausted today... I didn't go on my regular walk this morning. It was way too cold and raining, besides DisFanatic was home from work today. He suggested we go shopping instead. I don't think I have walked so much. We went to Sam's Club and probably circled the store a few times, went to Best Buy and TJ Maxx, then went to an outlet mall to go check out the new Nike store. If you know my husband you probably know how exhausted I am, if you don't well he is a natural walker. He walks back and forth and at a quick pace too. His sister always gets exhausted with him on vacation. He paces for hours and takes long strides, so I have to walk faster just to keep up. Anyway, I am not sure how much I walked today, but feel it in my knee. I also "played" on the Wii Fit for a bit. I am super excited because my knee has finally listened and I can now do leg lifts. That was something it just did not want to do for a few weeks now. While out shopping I stopped by the book store and picked up "The Complete Book of Running for Women" By Claire Kowalchik. So far it seems as if it is going to come in handy. I can't wait to start running. I have been holding on to something while attempting to jog in place, so hopefully by this time next week I can do a short jog. Keep those fingers crossed!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Hit my first bump...
Day 8-- I really wanted a break today, so I put it off and suffered. I came up with so many excuses not to go. I made the mistake of trying to do the Wii Fit instead. I worked hard and did some new Yoga poses, and strengthening exercises. DisFanatic came home from work and convinced me to go on my walk. He didn't want to see me give up on today. We walked about 1.6 miles. I had the most difficult time walking back though. My leg just felt so tired. I have now decided to definitely do my walk/runs in the morning. I was also reading up on the Princess Weekend from my favorite website, Disboards, okay it is a forum, but they are the best people ever. I was even once again considering on running the 1/2 marathon, but after that walk "No Way!" as my niece would say. I thought I would be brave and attempt to start with a walk and lead into a jog/slow run, not gonna happen. Not ready for that one yet. My knee just couldn't do it, maybe part of it was that my knee was tired. I should try it on a good day. I just need to remind myself that I can do it. I need to focus and not let the problems of everyday life dictate my schedule. I need to realize that my time on the pavement is a calming and should be relaxing, this way I will always want to do it.
So hit my first bump in the road, and got over it. I overcame todays challenge, now I need to stay focused and not lose sight of what is important.
So hit my first bump in the road, and got over it. I overcame todays challenge, now I need to stay focused and not lose sight of what is important.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Another day...
Day 7-- I got up this morning already wanting to give in. If I give myself a total day off what if I don't keep up the pace I am already at. After looking out the window for 30 minutes giving myself a pep talk with some encouraging words I opened that door and I was off. I decided not to increase my distance, yet. Instead I am just going to try and improve my pace, breathing and over all time. I do find myself saying "heal, toe, heal, toe". Maybe it is just to make sure I am not hobbling along the road. I don't even realize I do it sometimes. I made my 1.5 miles in 30m 07s. This means I am down a couple of minutes and my pacing is improving! Only about 5 minutes to go for the Disney minimums. I worked out on my Wii Fit again today, now if I could only get my knee to listen to my head. It is a good thing that the Wii is fun and it makes you feel guilty if you do not return daily. I am a bit concerned about this up coming weekend though. We are taking my niece on a fun filled weekend out of town. I know I will be doing plenty of walking there, but it is not consistent walking for my 1.5 miles. I really don't wanna drop the ball now. I guess I could always treadmill it. I am just a bit unsure on the speed with my knee, oh well there needs to be a trial walk on the treadmill at some point.
I think once I get all my personal family drama out of the way I will be on the road to the finish line. I will focus all my energy into my walking I guess.
What usually makes me want continue and complete this goal that I have set for myself is when I hear the words "you are doing great" or "I am proud of you". These are usually the things that DisFanatic or my dad say when I give them a status report. I guess what I need to be hearing are those same things coming from myself. In due time.
I think once I get all my personal family drama out of the way I will be on the road to the finish line. I will focus all my energy into my walking I guess.
What usually makes me want continue and complete this goal that I have set for myself is when I hear the words "you are doing great" or "I am proud of you". These are usually the things that DisFanatic or my dad say when I give them a status report. I guess what I need to be hearing are those same things coming from myself. In due time.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
My brain says "yes", but the knee says "No Way!"
Day 6-- I woke up early this morning and decided to go for my daily walk while DisFanatic was still asleep. It was a nice, warm, Autumn Sunday morning. I grabbed my iPod and was off. I was really enjoying my walk and decided to walk just a bit further than I normally do. Whilst on my walk I was thinking that I should really get into yoga because it could help improve my breathing skills, which could come in handy during a marathon. I made a mental note to get out the Wii Fit for the Nintendo, no harm in playing some games while trying to get fit. It also occurred to me that the Fit board had a small step to help my knee on climbing steps.
Later in the day I hopped on my Buddy 125 to get the exact mileage of my morning walk. I knew that the walk had taken me 33m 04s, so I wanted to know how far it was. According to my scooter I walked 1.5 miles for my morning walk. I was psyched, I am averaging 22m per mile. Only about 07m over the Disney minimum. Woo hoo!!! Almost at the minimum only two weeks after knee surgery. It looks like there will be no Physical Therapy for me in the near future. Fingers are crossed.
The sun was starting to set so I decided I was ready for another walk. I was only going to walk until it looked like it was getting too dark. I walked to my normal stop then back home for 1 mile round trip. I got the Wii Fit and realized that my brain tells my leg to take a step, but my leg does not agree. I want to take that step but just cannot do it. After a few orders from my brain my leg finally gives in. It actually does not hurt to do it, so I am not sure why subconsciously I don't want to take that step. Maybe I am afraid that my leg will give and I will fall, although this has never happened. I did some yoga breathing exercises and stretches, then I did some fun games. I can squat slightly with no pain. Now to keep up with the Wii Fit, my daily knee exercises and my walk. I am getting more and more excited about this marathon and cannot wait until the time comes when I can actually run or even walk briskly. Right now I am just at a relaxed pace and walk only as my knee allows. I am nearly 1/3 of the way to forming a great habit, I am excited.
I am loving this feeling I get when I go for a walk or I can do something new with my knee!!!
Later in the day I hopped on my Buddy 125 to get the exact mileage of my morning walk. I knew that the walk had taken me 33m 04s, so I wanted to know how far it was. According to my scooter I walked 1.5 miles for my morning walk. I was psyched, I am averaging 22m per mile. Only about 07m over the Disney minimum. Woo hoo!!! Almost at the minimum only two weeks after knee surgery. It looks like there will be no Physical Therapy for me in the near future. Fingers are crossed.
The sun was starting to set so I decided I was ready for another walk. I was only going to walk until it looked like it was getting too dark. I walked to my normal stop then back home for 1 mile round trip. I got the Wii Fit and realized that my brain tells my leg to take a step, but my leg does not agree. I want to take that step but just cannot do it. After a few orders from my brain my leg finally gives in. It actually does not hurt to do it, so I am not sure why subconsciously I don't want to take that step. Maybe I am afraid that my leg will give and I will fall, although this has never happened. I did some yoga breathing exercises and stretches, then I did some fun games. I can squat slightly with no pain. Now to keep up with the Wii Fit, my daily knee exercises and my walk. I am getting more and more excited about this marathon and cannot wait until the time comes when I can actually run or even walk briskly. Right now I am just at a relaxed pace and walk only as my knee allows. I am nearly 1/3 of the way to forming a great habit, I am excited.
I am loving this feeling I get when I go for a walk or I can do something new with my knee!!!
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Trying to develop a habit
Today was Day 5-- I woke up with the urge to walk. That is good, right? I got up around 8am and was out the door. After playing with my niece for a bit we took to the pavement. Walked my mile before I could come up with excuses not to do it. I am still a bit slow, but I am coming along. The road I walk on has a slight incline going, so there is the slight decline coming home. I get all types of roadway for my knee.
I remember at some point in my college career learning that it takes 21 days to form a habit, so I guess I am about a quarter of the way through. We also marked the distances from our home to the gas station- 7 miles, round trip that is just a bit over a 1/2 marathon. I cannot wait until I will be well enough to be able to do that. Everyday will be a struggle, and everyday I will overcome that struggle to stick with my schedule. I am trying to take advantage of the weather because once it snows that means a date with the treadmill for me!
I remember at some point in my college career learning that it takes 21 days to form a habit, so I guess I am about a quarter of the way through. We also marked the distances from our home to the gas station- 7 miles, round trip that is just a bit over a 1/2 marathon. I cannot wait until I will be well enough to be able to do that. Everyday will be a struggle, and everyday I will overcome that struggle to stick with my schedule. I am trying to take advantage of the weather because once it snows that means a date with the treadmill for me!
Friday, September 25, 2009
And we are off!!!
I guess before we get into things you need a bit of history first. I am 28 and just had a knee scope for the second time. The first was 2 years ago on my right knee, it was a lateral release. It all started many years ago when I went to a Boyz II Men concert and turned the wrong way. Fast forward 8 years, I was working in Washington D.C. on Capital Hill wearing 3 inch heels everyday on marble floors. I had a horrible grinding in my knees. It sounded awful and felt worse then it sounded. I found the best Doctor ever and he fixed them both. Anyone looking for a GREAT doctor I can recommend one.
On September 9, 2009, I had my left knee fixed. I had my post-op a week later and was told that it looked great and so far no physical therapy will be needed. I was still on crutches and he told me in 3 weeks I needed to be off or go to physical therapy. The next day I went to meet my wonderful husband(from this point on referred to as "DisFanatic") for lunch and it was raining. Walking in crutches in the rain is difficult and not fun. From that moment I decided that was it, no more crutches! Haven't used them since.
Five days later I was doing great without crutches. I read about a marathon in Walt Disney World that takes place in March known as the Disney's Princess Marathon, and I was so excited that I wanted to join. Now my next thought was "my knees are bad, I could never do it", suddenly I remembered something. It hit me like a ton of bricks and I yelled "THEY ARE BOTH FIXED NOW!!!" I think I scared my cat yelling that loud, even the turtle fell off his basking plank. I did some research on it then needed a second opinion. Of course my sister thought it was a good idea too. I called DisFanatic to "pitch" the idea. Unfortunately, he didn't think it was a great idea. I pitched him the 1/2 marathon with the idea he might say it wasn't the best idea. He thought I should go for the 5k first and register for the 1/2 the following year. I needed some reassurance so I called my dad. My dad is always concerned about my health and always tells me the truth. Being a runner himself, he thought it would be great for me.
Day 1- I am still a little unstable on my leg, so I decided to walk to the road and back. I survived it. I did my regular knee exercises to strengthen my knee.
Day 2- I decided I was going to walk further than the day before. I walk a little more than 1/4 mile. Still did my knee exercises. I had this revelation, what if I get bored with the idea and not follow through with it? I decided at that moment I was going to register, there was no turning back. No refunds or exchanges. I have to stick with it now.
Day 3- I waited until DisFanatic got home from work to go for my walk. We walked 1 mile round trip. I didn't do my knee exercises because I thought 1 mile was exercise enough.
Day 4- Walking rest day! Just did knee exercises
Now if you don't know me you probably don't think anything of this marathon stuff. The truth is never in a million years would you get me to run. My idea of sports and being athletic is Golf! I am 5'3 3/4" and overweight. I have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and show all my symptoms. I carry all my weight in my tummy (yes, I used the word tummy) and gain weight just looking at other people over eat. With PCOS it is difficult to lose weight. I am not an unhealthy eater, I mean I don't like meat, I hate sugar foods and chocolate. Yes, I hate Chocolate
and ice cream, cakes and pies, and most if not all candy. My idea of the perfect Subway sub is a Veggie Delight with everything but tomatoes and mayo.
So now you see why this is important to me. Not only do I have to work out and get my knee strong enough, but I need to start eating and thinking like a runner.
Please DO NOT hesitate to leave me comments, tips, suggestions, or encouragement. If you wanna run the Princess marathon look up Disney's Princess Marathon at Disney Sports for details. Let me know and we can train together. Wish me luck on my Dr. approval!
On September 9, 2009, I had my left knee fixed. I had my post-op a week later and was told that it looked great and so far no physical therapy will be needed. I was still on crutches and he told me in 3 weeks I needed to be off or go to physical therapy. The next day I went to meet my wonderful husband(from this point on referred to as "DisFanatic") for lunch and it was raining. Walking in crutches in the rain is difficult and not fun. From that moment I decided that was it, no more crutches! Haven't used them since.
Five days later I was doing great without crutches. I read about a marathon in Walt Disney World that takes place in March known as the Disney's Princess Marathon, and I was so excited that I wanted to join. Now my next thought was "my knees are bad, I could never do it", suddenly I remembered something. It hit me like a ton of bricks and I yelled "THEY ARE BOTH FIXED NOW!!!" I think I scared my cat yelling that loud, even the turtle fell off his basking plank. I did some research on it then needed a second opinion. Of course my sister thought it was a good idea too. I called DisFanatic to "pitch" the idea. Unfortunately, he didn't think it was a great idea. I pitched him the 1/2 marathon with the idea he might say it wasn't the best idea. He thought I should go for the 5k first and register for the 1/2 the following year. I needed some reassurance so I called my dad. My dad is always concerned about my health and always tells me the truth. Being a runner himself, he thought it would be great for me.
Day 1- I am still a little unstable on my leg, so I decided to walk to the road and back. I survived it. I did my regular knee exercises to strengthen my knee.
Day 2- I decided I was going to walk further than the day before. I walk a little more than 1/4 mile. Still did my knee exercises. I had this revelation, what if I get bored with the idea and not follow through with it? I decided at that moment I was going to register, there was no turning back. No refunds or exchanges. I have to stick with it now.
Day 3- I waited until DisFanatic got home from work to go for my walk. We walked 1 mile round trip. I didn't do my knee exercises because I thought 1 mile was exercise enough.
Day 4- Walking rest day! Just did knee exercises
Now if you don't know me you probably don't think anything of this marathon stuff. The truth is never in a million years would you get me to run. My idea of sports and being athletic is Golf! I am 5'3 3/4" and overweight. I have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and show all my symptoms. I carry all my weight in my tummy (yes, I used the word tummy) and gain weight just looking at other people over eat. With PCOS it is difficult to lose weight. I am not an unhealthy eater, I mean I don't like meat, I hate sugar foods and chocolate. Yes, I hate Chocolate
and ice cream, cakes and pies, and most if not all candy. My idea of the perfect Subway sub is a Veggie Delight with everything but tomatoes and mayo.
So now you see why this is important to me. Not only do I have to work out and get my knee strong enough, but I need to start eating and thinking like a runner.
Please DO NOT hesitate to leave me comments, tips, suggestions, or encouragement. If you wanna run the Princess marathon look up Disney's Princess Marathon at Disney Sports for details. Let me know and we can train together. Wish me luck on my Dr. approval!
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