These Shoes Were Made for Running

In an effort to continue leading a healthy lifestyle this year I have decided to challenge myself by running the Chicago Marathon. Completing a marathon has always been a dream of mine and given my newfound health it’s time to make that dream a reality. I have begun training and as of this past Saturday am up to twelve miles, not too bad for a guy who only seven months ago would break a sweat if his nose ran! However, I’m quickly learning that it’s not enough to just want to run a marathon; it takes a great deal of dedication, motivation, perspiration, and especially the right information.chicago marathon

With my new body, I feel as if I run like the wind; especially when compared to what my old body could do. I am simply so excited that sometimes I forget some of the important lessons I am learning from my running coach and running buddies. But, they say if you’re write things down, you tend to forget less. So, I am writing them down to share with all of you.

First of all, it is essential to eat about 200 calories before doing any form of exercise, especially if it is first thing in the morning. This will not only get your metabolism going, but also keep your blood sugar from dropping in the middle of your workout.

Next, it is extremely important to pace yourself while running. As I said, I get so excited; my little feet (which I now can see) take off nearly leaving my body behind. I’m quickly learning that the run-as-fast-as-you-can technique works great for low mileage, but after running 12 miles, I sure am glad there was someone there to pace me. The key is to not expend all of my energy at the beginning, but keep an even pace throughout the run.
Finally, the most important piece of information I want to share is that a good pair of running shoes is key. I always got mine at the local shoe outlet store and saw nothing wrong with it until my fabulous trainer, Angela Park, recommended Running Away, a locally owned running store here in Chicago. I went in and was helped by Tim, the manager. He spent an hour with me making sure I had a pair of shoes that not only fit my feet, but also fit my body and my running style. Spending the extra time identifying a pair of shoes that will help me prevent injury while putting in the miles was worth every second. I am now the proud owner of a pair of Brooks running shoes, and I couldn’t be more ecstatic. They are so comfortable, I wear them whenever possible. I’ll tell you . . . these shoes were made for running and that’s just what they’ll do. One of these days these shoes are gonna run right on past you!

5 Responses to These Shoes Were Made for Running

:) says:

That last line of your blog made me LOL.

Great advice as usual, I love reading your blog every week. I just re-began my own weight loss/get healthy journey and this inspires me–a lot.

One question though if you don’t mind me asking–do you find that when you have your cheat days or a treat it doesn’t taste as good anymore? I’ve noticed that the cookies and sugary treats I used to love are way too sweet now and I can’t eat as much anymore. Is this normal or am I just a weirdo?

Looking forward to your next column,

Sammi

Brandi says:

Funny you ask that Sammi because I have the same problem! Unlike you, I like the greasy snacks- French fries, fast food burgers- my FAVORITE! Anymore, it sounds really good and then I talk myself out of it because I know how bad I’ll feel after I eat it.

Bernie says:

Sammi,

You are in no way a weirdo, just like you I find myself staying away from the sugary treats I once enjoyed. I think it’s a combination of knowing how unhealthy the snacks I used to enjoy are for me, and the amount of hours I’m going to have to spend burning off those unhealthy snacks. My cheat days mostly consist of having a bit more of the healthy foods that I have now grown to love. So my advice to you is to be open to the tastes of your new palate and above all to continue on with your new found health!

:) says:

Thank you to both of you! You really made me feel better about it. 🙂

Janice says:

Bernie

Just a warining, the marathon bug. Once you run one you are hooked!!! Good luck to you.

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