Homework

Not only have I committed to meeting a group of runners on a weekly basis but apparently, I have homework that needs to be done twice a week to ensure the success of my clinic experience. Two independent running sessions that duplicate the time set at the group class. This for the girl who makes it a rule not to run more than twice a week.

My first practise run was scheduled for Wednesday. I was still experiencing post-workout soreness from Monday and it was so intense that I tried to wake up TWICE that morning and had to return to bed both times. The head to toe ache made me think that I had come down with a virus and needed to rest.

On my third attempt to rise, I was moving slow. I was behind schedule and trying to prepare for a long day, first at work and then later teaching a financial class at church. I figured that having lost my early morning jump on exercising, I had lost my chance to "do my homework" and wouldn't be able to fit that 25 minute run in like I planned.

I'm not sure when I decided that I was not going to leave for work until I had completed my fitness obligation but I walked my kid's to the bus stop, kissed them, and set out for my run. It was now raining and Milo, who is usually ecstatic to be my partner, was not enthused about getting wet. I wasn't either but we were going to face this challenge, shower, and get on with our day.

It wasn't easy. Every step hurt. Because of the rain, there was no-one else out on the trail at all. I was amazed that I could keep putting one foot in front of the other and move forward, but I did. Before I knew it, my timer alerted me to turn around and head towards home for the last 12.5 minutes. Milo was much more excited about that and I admit, so was I. As a result, our pace quickened slightly and it didn't hurt quite so bad.

When it was over, I felt so good. I knew that this 2nd workout was a hurtle and that running this season would likely not be as uncomfortable as it was during this session. I went on with my day feeling strong, successful and more sure of my impulsive decision to join the running clinic.

Today, Saturday, was my last homework assignment for this week. Again, my early rising plans were foiled due to a late social evening, but I headed out after a day of grocery shopping with the family. Milo had been couped up all day and was glad to be outside. Shawn laced up his Rollerblades and accompanied me.

I wasn't as sore but I worked pretty hard trying to keep the pace that Shawn & Milo were setting. I couldn't speak except to gasp out the occasional answer to Shawn's questions. The reward was that I was able to cover more distance this time around. It was over quickly and it felt good. Shawn even complimented me on my running ability and that felt great too.

Week one is officially over and I am ready for Monday's group run feeling much more confident. The running time is going to increase to 28 minutes and this time I am going to bring my Ipod shuffle and show up on time! I'll tell you how it goes.