Practice 10k + a giveaway- ENDED
Practice 10k COMPLETE!
(not pushing the jogging stroller, though. The Pilot walked with Liv since he has a PT test tomorrow and wanted to have fresh legs)
I wasn’t sure if I was actually going to do it, but my killer playlist got me through. Even with the steep Sabino incline and a walk break in the middle (and in the snow.. with 40 lbs of sand on my back.. haha), I managed to hit a post-baby PDR and finished the practice 10k in 58 minutes.
I really wanted my practice 10k to be at Sabino because of the incline. If I can bust an hour on this, then I can definitely do it for the race. I’m fortunate to have a baby who loves the jogging stroller, weather that’s getting much cooler, and many safe, beautiful places to run in Tucson. I feel like I have the Sabino main trail memorized because I’ve ran it so many times, but every time we go, I see something different. I’ll never take the beauty of Sabino Canyon for granted, and with all of the recent summer monsoons, everything is lush and green instead of brown and dried out.
I’ve been running with my new Garmin Forerunner 10, that the company kindly sent me to try out. I instantly noticed how LIGHT and small the new Forerunner is. It’s so much more compact than my 305 that I’d been using, which kind of looks like I can press a button and blast off, or like I have a small video game system attached to my wrist. The new Forerunner just looks like a small sporty watch, with all of the necessary functions for walking and jogging: satellite detection so it can tell you your pace and distance (even cheers you on when you set a new record!), estimate of calories burned, easy to pause and restart.
Here’s a video of the new Forerunner, which gives and idea of how user-friendly and small it is:
the fact that it comes in pink is a bonus, too 😉
I ran with my Forerunner as I have been, and loved the fact that I could quickly glance down and see how I was doing.
I knew I had to make it a little past 3 miles into the canyon, and the miles are clearly marked on large boulders. Every rock I saw in the distance, I would PRAY that it would say mile three and was discouraged quite a few times.
Finally.
I walked for a few minutes and flew back down -why is the way back so much easier?!
For the past couple of weeks, I’ve wondered if I’d be able to run the half marathon, despite my training time constraints. Every run solidifies the fact that I’d be mad at myself if I did it. I’d rather do the 10k and feel good about it, instead of be crawling across the half marathon finish line or picked up by the “slow truck.”
How’s that humble pie taste? Kinda like macaroon dough….
I made a batch to send to a reader as a thank-you gift, and wanted to share some with a lucky giveaway winner, too.
Garmin was so kind to offer a new Forerunner 10 -just released last week- to a lucky Fitnessista reader, and I’ll also send some chocolate macaroons.
**************This giveaway has ended! Thank you so much to everyone for entering, and congratulations to the winner:
Lauren, the Forerunner and macaroons winner:
| Ever since I started running races, my dad has been at every single one, no matter the weather or how it might inconvenience him. But every mile matters to me because my dad has stage 4 cancer, meaning he won’t go into remission. He probably won’t be there to walk me down the aisle. But when I run, whether it’s a tough hill on a training run or when I feel like giving up in a race, I think of him and know that no matter how much pain he’s in, he never complains, so there’s no reason for me to, either. I’m running my third half marathon in a month and every mile will be for him. |
And also congratulations to the second and third place winners, who will receive these awesome Garmin water bottles:
Amy
| Every mile matters to me because…
It means that I am healthy and that I can set an example for both girls and women in my community. A runner does not have to look a certain way, and in fact runners do not all fit that “runner” stereotype. I love racing because I get to continually challenge my own stereotypes about people and LOVE when an older woman passes me by. Also, I run so I can set an example for my students-create a goal and really go after it, learn to persevere. They know me as the running teacher. |
and
Vera
I have to be honest and say that since I have had my children ( Aria, 4 years and Jax, 7 months), I haven’t been into running very much. I always feel like it is too time consuming, and so I usually find myself doing a quick Zuzana workout, or another quick DVD I have at home that I can do in the evening once the kids are in bed. But lately, and especially since the weather is beginning to cool down, I would really love to get back into it. And I would love to show my daughter that being healthy and enjoying the outdoors are very important and enjoyable 
ps – Gina, I LOVE your blog. I am hooked. |
Please send me your shipping info so I can forward it to the Garmin fairy 🙂
Thank you again so much for the awesome entries! Stay tuned for more giveaways in the very near future.
xoxo
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Ever since my leg surgeries (had compartments on both shins) ever mile true matter just because I was getting back out on the pavement and each step meant I was closer to getting back on the field hockey field.
Every mile matters to me because when I am running I think of friends and family members who have battled illness. I think, if they can go through such a physically tough and trying time, surely I can run just ONE more mile!
After spending 2 years unable to exercise much at all due to illness every mile matters because it feels sooooo great to be active again 🙂
Every mile matters to me because I know how easy it is to just give up, but if I push myself just a little harder I know I can make it and how good it feels at the end of my run. I’m a mom of a little one too, so I definitely use running as an outlet for stress and it does wonders for me and my mood.
Every mile matters to me because I always feel a sense of accomplishment and being stronger after each run. Even bad runs, even in the rain, even when I’m sore, even when I feel sad, there is always a sense of pride and satisfaction. When I see those “man I really regret that workout – said by no one ever” graphics and sayings on the internet I can totally relate, because it is SO true!
“every mile matters” to me because I agree, it’s about teaching my little guy about overcoming challenges no matter how hard they may be. Each mile serves as stepping stone to that final accomplishment…whether it be 3 miles of 10…each mile counts and one learns so much with each step.
Every mile matters to me because it’s another mile done as part of my efforts to lose weight and become healthier.
every mile matters, because sometimes 1 mile is all you can do! During the upcoming holiday season (which to me is Halloween through New Years) My goal is to run at least one mile a day. If I do more, wonderful! if not, well at least I had the chance for a 10 minute run break!
I’ve never considered myself a runner–I don’t particularly enjoy it while I’m doing it, but every mile matters to me because of the incredible sense of accomplishment I get afterwards. I love feeling like I can accomplish anything, and running gives me that attitude!
“Every mile matters” means to me that I can actually accomplish whatever I set my mind to. After not even being able to run a mile in high school, and recovering from an injury, I will be running a 10K next May with my husband. I have learned so much about myself through running and am grateful for every day that I get to spend on this Earth.
I’m 37 weeks pregnant so I’m not getting a lot of miles in now. However I just finished moving across country (my first PCS with my husband) so I’m really looking forward to getting back to working out and running as a way to get out and be social. So every mile will count for my health in two ways, losing the baby weight and not becoming too isolated as I’m away from family and friends.
After years of running through injuries and sicknesses, every mile matters. There were many days where injuries kept me sidelined or bouts of sickness sapped my energy. Now, every mile is one closer to my running goals. Every mile matters because each keeps me healthy, as well.
oh my gosh, i have wanted a Garmin for years!! i keep telling myself once im out of college, ill get one.. haha but I have been running on and off for 10 years just about. In the beginning, I ran because coach told me to (and because there were a TON of cute cross country boys 🙂 ) but as an adult in college, I now run for my sanity. I usually have to fit in a jog here and there between work and school, but every mile matters because that mile is my mile, my time to think to myself. There is a gorgeous park next to the hospital that I do clinicals at, and I absolutely look forward to clinical day now every time because I know I’m going to have an awesome run. I tell everyone that it keeps me from going crazy!
Every mile matters to me because it brings me back to when I was 7 years old and ran to chase butterflies, play tag, get a kite off the ground, and to feel the freedom and joy that comes with moving your legs as fast as possible. During the many training runs before my first marathon, I would come back to these thoughts about why running is so blissful to get me through less than pleasant runs.
Wow, where do I start? haha. I like you have a baby that I am trying to set an example for. Every mile counts because I want him to see that running or exercising in general not only can make you look better, but more importantly feel better. On a personal note, after having an unplanned c-section I thought I would never get back to running shape. I am now proud to say I am running faster than ever and I love having my extra “little fan” cheering me on 🙂
Every mile matters to me because I never thought I could be a runner. I hated to run. Then we got a treadmill for our new house and I started out running…very slowly…but I was doing it. I can’t describe how proud I felt. Now my pace has picked up and I can go two miles without stopping which is a feat for me!! It’s also a great stress reliever!
Every mile matters because it means I am actually doing something….which is always better than doing nothing!
Every mile matters because it’s important to always keep on moving forward! haha
Amazing giveaway!
Every mile matters to me, because it’s a reminder of where I’ve been and what I can accomplish. I spent so many years not being able to run even one mile. The “mile run” day in gym class was always the worst, and I dreaded it every year. When I discovered a more healthy lifestyle and began to improve my exercise, it changed my life completely. And now that I can run a mile, or even many miles, it matters because it’s a remider that life is a gift, and I am in charge of my happiness. It’s never too late to change your life for the better!
“Every mile matters” to me because every mile, every step I take is a step toward a healthier, happier me. I have learned that only I have control over my health and happiness, and once I am both of those things, I can take on any challenges that life throws my way.
Every extra mile used to be a challenge to me – to push myself beyond what I thought possible. Now, every mile means preparing my body for the birth of my baby this spring! Whether it be an easy run or a walk to the post office before work, every mile counts!
I am not much of a runner, but my spin instructor tells us every week to take a moment to be grateful that our bodies are even able to do this. I try and think about that everytime I don’t feel like workibg out. I am so lucky I can do this and it helps my body to push a little further each time.
Every mile matters to me because it shows that determination doesn’t have “good days” or “bad days”. Knowing I can push through on a particularly difficult run proves to myself that I have the strength and determination I need for all other areas of my life!
Every mile matters because it is helping me move forward to work at my goal!! I started out not being able to run a mile straight a year ago and now am up to 5 miles. I’m running a 10k in October!
Every mile matters to me because i used to run 3 every night in high school and now, ten years later, i have a mental block with anything over three. It jist seems to hard.
Every mile counts for me because running is the most personal, meditative time for me. It’s when I feel most like myself and when I seem to really figure things out on my own and resolve things in my mind that have been bothering me. I feel so lucky to have running as a part of my life…Although I’m 35 weeks pregnant now and had to stop running around week 28. I miss it desperately:(
Every mile matters to me because it is growing proof (literally) of both my physical and mental drive and determination. Nothing makes me feel stronger in my body than knowing I pushed myself a little farther and proud of my mental strength for telling myself that I could do it.
I’m just getting back in to exercise, and every mile is a struggle! I want to be healthy though so that I can keep up with my six year old. I want to set a good extra, I want him to see that taking care of yourself is as important as taking care of everyone else. Every mile that we do (biking, walking, running, etc) is another mile towards a happy ending!
Oops . . . good example.
Great job on your run!! Looks like a beautiful path. Every mile matters to me because even if I’m not feeling it at the beginning of a run or if I have a lot on my mind, with every passing distance I feel stronger and more accomplished. I love that feeling!
Every mile matters because it gives me a chance to clear my head and helps me keep my sanity. With two little ones at home and a stressful job, I need to run! I remember how hard it was for me to keep going when I ran my first 5K, every mile was such a challenge. Now I am running half-marathons, and considering training for a full marathon next spring. It is amazing what our bodies can do.
every mile matters because after suffering from a stress fracture a few months ago, each mile is that much more rewarding. and what better way to reward yourself than with chocolate macaroons?!
Every mile matters to me because it reminds me of all the years I thought I was incapable of running. I have never been a natural running, and getting started was one of the hardest things I have ever done. I will be running my third half marathon (slowly, it’s still hard), but it is so rewarding to know what I am capable of.
Every mile matters because its a step towards a healthier me. Every mile is a present to myself of a stronger happier me.
Every mile matters to me because I am new at running (and loving it) but its always been something I thought I couldn’t do. Every mile that passes just proves that I can.
Every mile matters to me, because it’s a mile towards breaking the unhealthy cycle in my family. My parents are both facing illnesses (type 2 diabetes and hypertension) as a result of poor lifestyle choices & eating habits. Since leaving home for college and embarking out on my own, I’ve completely changed the way I eat (hello vegetables, good bye daily footlong ham and extra cheese subway sandwiches) and become a runner. I can’t wait to raise my own family with health and wellness in mind!
Every mile matters to me because in grade school, I couldn’t even finish a mile, and that was such a terrible feeling! Some people can run a mile without having run in weeks, but I am not one of those people. Having to train to be able to run a whole mile sure makes me appreciate each and every one.
Every mile matters because no matter how far (or in my case, how slow) you go, it is forward progression. Running is not easy for me and I struggle the entire time. Each mile is a huge accomplishment because it took a lot of hard work, physically and mentally, to get through it.
Every mile matters to me because it means I’ve pushed myself. And that doesn’t always happen.. Haha.
Every mile matters because every second of my kids’ lives matters. I need to be healthy to ensure that I’m around to witness every “mile” they are able to achieve.
Every mile matters to me because I’m training for my first marathon. After doing half marathons for six years, I finally decided to challenge myself. Although my family is supportive, none of them understand why I run or why I would ever run so FAR! This first marathon is my chance to prove to myself that my body is capable of anything I set my mind to! I may not be very fast, but I can’t wait for that feeling of accomplishment when I cross the finish line after 26.2 miles in November!
Such a great giveaway- Thanks Gina!
I am by no means a natural runner. I enjoy the mental clarity, the simplicity of the sport and the accomplishment of running 1,2 or 5 miles. Each mile feels like I’m embarking on a new journey. After I had my daughter (she just turned 1) I wanted to get back into running again and it started with 1 mile at a time. Soon I could go to 2 and 3 and 4. I was proud of myself for what my body could do. Even now, I struggle with shin splints, and if I have to start back at doing 1 mile at a a time I know its more about the journey to accomplishing more and challenging myself. Getting back in shape after having a baby was tough for me, and I contribute so much of my physical and mental well being to running.
Every mile matters to me because they show me how far I’ve come since I started working on getting in better shape. Running really kick started my way to a healthy lifestyle, and every time I increase my mileage, I feel so great. I started out barely being able to run for 90 seconds at a time and now I can run for half an hour straight. I feel so much stronger and a lot more confident about myself. That is the most important reason every mile matters to me-because they increase my self confidence 🙂
Thanks for this giveaway opportunity!
Every single mile, no, every single quarter mile, counts for me because running is NOT my forte. I definitely believe it is more of a mental challenge, and being the pessimistic I usually am, every single quarter mile is a challenge. BUT a very good and much needed one! I go through my workday facing the normal challenges of just making it to 5pm. But the challenges of running– thats a whole other boat…. which means.. a whole other boat of rewards and feelings of accomplishment. I run on a track so I can know my mile marks to push me forward… I would love a garmin so I could do just the same on the free terrain! Every part of a mile pushes your mind and body just a bit further to the feeling of accomplishment, and that is the biggest part of being happy!
Every mile matters to me because I want to set a good example for my son. I am a stay at home mom and though he is only one year old, I know he is taking in everything I do. I want him to always remember me taking care of my health and making fitness a priority. I am now pregnant with my second child and I want to stay healthy and fit through my pregnancy as well. Having this watch would be awesome to keep track of my pregnancy fitness accomplishments!
Like you, running doesn’t come easy for me, despite being pretty physically fit. I spent several months pushing myself hard as a runner because I felt as if it was something I “should” be doing as a physically active individual. After almost injuring myself, I realized I needed to just take it at a pace and mileage I was comfortable with. Now, every mile (whether I’m walking, running or heck, even skipping,) is a measure of the strength I have through all my fitness activities.
Every mile reminds me how strong I am and can be — running and in life in general.
Every mile to be means I am that much closer to getting back to my pre-injury shape. I had a femoral neck stress fracture pop up in the middle of my college track season when I was in my peak shape. It was so discouraging, but now that I am back running, every mile is a step of confidenance and a reminder that I am healthy and able to finally run again after being sidelined for 3 months.
Every mile counts because it reminds me how strong and capable my body is. It puts things in perspective and reminds me to be thankful for the simple things in life.
For me, every mile means that I am choosing a healthy path. Every mile is a confidence booster. Even if my run didn’t go well, I was still present in the moment choosing to be healthy instead of saying “I can’t do that”. When I look at all my medals, it reminds me that I can do what I want in life. It just takes perseverance, consistency, and focus.
Every mile matters to me because it shows how far I’ve come and the bar goes up a little bit to do better the next time. When your lungs are burning, legs tired, and your mind screams you can’t do it and then you do and the adrenaline kicks in. It’s awesome…