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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Every mile matters to me because without them, I think I’d go crazy. Running (and working out) is how I maintain mental and emotional stability and clarity, it helps me eat better, pay attention to my sleep, and, lately, gives the hubs and I time to chat and check in with each other despite our otherwise busy and distracting lives.
Every mile matters to me because it’s one more mile than I ever thought I’d be able to run a year ago. I was out of shape, uninspired, and unhealthy… and then one day I just decided to go for a 2 mile run. I walked parts and jogged parts and, in the end, I finished in 22 minutes! I’ve been running ever since!
Every mile matters to me because every mile I walk or run, I know I’m getting stronger and challenging myself! I always want to beat my old goals and records and I know that every step I take, as long as I keep moving, I’m working my way toward a better Lisa.
Every mile matters because running is something I struggle with – I’d much rather life weights or swim!
Every mile counts to me because it is so much easier to press snooze and sleep in an extra hour rather than get up and do so something healthy and good for your health. No amount of sleep feels as good as getting your body moving and accomplishing a goal!
I run to break the stigma of our sedentary generation.
I run to stay healthy, mentally and physically.
I’m not a great runner, but I get out there and break a sweat to motivate my friends, family and myself.
I do it because I can!!
Every mile matters to me because it shows me how much I have accomplished and how far I have come from struggling with one or two miles at the begining. It shows me how my body is improving and becoming healthier and stronger each step I can take and the further I can go.
Every mile matters to me for a couple of reasons. One, is that running isn’t something that
I love to do but once I start, it is so freeing and it definetly helps me clear my head some days. Even though its not my favorite form of exercise, it plays a role in a well-balanced fitness regime and it feel so good to know that you can accomplish anything with hard work and a little motivation.
Another reason ever mile matters to me has to do with my Naunie. A little over a year ago she was diagnosed with Stage 4 Cancer. They told her with the chemotherapy, she would have about a year to live.. that it would only prolong her life and her cancer would never go into remission.. once you are a Stage 4.. you stay a Stage 4. Well last Thursday, they told her that it would only be a matter of days and for us to start making arraingments (doctors can be sooo cold). As I type this though, she is at the hospital, receiving her chemo. b/c they told her that she would have a 20% chance with the treatment. My point in this whole story is she is still fighting.. to the very end, she is not losing hope. I’m learning to not take anything for granted anymore and that life goes by in the blink of an eye. I want to take every opportunity to live life to the very fullest so Every mile, every drop of sweat, every second matters to me!! Why? because If my naun can be so brave and courageous, so can I!!!
every mile matters to me because it teaches me that I can get stronger ever day.
Thanks for setting this up and your incredible blog! Every (albeit slow) mile matters to me because I have a congenital heart condition resulting from a genetic condition. I am so thankful to be one of the fortunate ones with my condition who can run (and spin …my passion!), and never take my workouts for granted. I work out to promote a healthy lifestyle regardless of circumstances 🙂
Every mile matters to me because every mile that I go means I’m getting better, getting stronger and pushing myself further!
Every mile matters to me because I have to go go go until my hips give out! At 23 I already have pain in my hips, which lots of yoga helps alleviate. Running makes it hurt, but stretching after relieves the tightness and I’m left feeling grateful for the miles I’m able to accomplish.
Every mile matters to me because it is one more mile than if I would have parked it on the couch at home!
Every mile matters because it’s there for me to do. They matter because with each step I take I know I am getting stronger. I am paving the way for my health. They matter because they allow me a sense of freedom and the blessing of pushing my body beyond my own perceived capabilities, something that I know I should never take for granted.
I run for myself, but I also run for my daughter who can’t. She was born with an airway defect that necessitated a tracheostomy. She lives her life short of breath and never utters a single complaint. Every mile matters to me because when I’m gasping for air and convinced I can’t go a step further, I remember that she doesn’t even have that choice. Its as if pushing myself that next mile, and one more, and one more will make up for the fact that she can’t run across a soccer field without a struggle. Life is an extraordinary thing, in whatever form it takes, and so I run for her. And for everyone who wishes they could and aren’t able to. I run for myself so I can be the healthiest Mama I’m capable of being. Every mile matters, more than I ever thought it would.
Every mile matters because you never know when life might throw you a curveball making running more challenging. I’ve had multiple runinng related injuries over the years and have learned to appreciate my body for what it allows me to do on any given day, not just the PR days or the light as a feather feeling days. Even on my heaviest of lead legs days, I am grateful that my body allows me to put one foot in front of the other.
Every mile matters to me because I made myself a promise to get in healthy shape before I start trying to have a baby. I have my first half marathon in 2 weeks, and am slowly feeling like I am getting healthy both physically and mentally!
Every mile matters to me because running is a challenge for me. Every time I complete a run I feel that I have accomplished something great! Thank you for the giveaway!
Every mile matters because I am not a runner by nature. It is something I have to work at and practice. The sense of accomplishment every time I run — outside, on the 1/13-mile track at the gym or on the treadmill — reminds me that my body is capable of doing this incredible thing for me. It gets me places, it propels me forward and it earns a good stretch and delicious sleep.
Eery mile matters because its a small step in the right direction, which small steps add up to a great payoff.
For me, every mile counts because I am always trying to push myself. Before I lost weight, I was constantly telling myself all the things my body COULD NOT do. Now, I push myself to remind my body that it is STRONG! and that it is capable of doing things I never thought possible (ie-running that extra mile!)
For me it’s every tenth of a mile matters right now and I am up to .2 miles! It’s not much but considering I was told it would be impossible for me to ever run again after the accident I was in 9.5 months ago I think it’s pretty good.
Every mile matters becuase It’s one more mile than you would have achieved sitting on the couch. Getting up and out is the hardest part, right? I personally find running difficult and the feeling of achievement after completing more distance than I did the last time is the best feeling ever!
Every mile matters to me be me because I know that each one I conquer will make it easier to conquer the next one.
Running helps me to save my sanity. I have 3 kids- 5yrs, 3yrs, and 1yr and a deployed husband and I need to be able to get out and run even if I have to do it with the kiddos in the stroller and the puppy 🙂 Running seriously helps me be a nicer, kinder mom, it is such a wonderful stress reliever 🙂
I’ve just (re)started my walking/jogging training so it’s exciting when I see the mileage and time that I’ve covered. It’s something tangible that I can show myself to motivate me even more. And committing to physical activity on most days means that every mile matters and it’s for my health! 🙂
Every Mile Matters because every one makes me feel like I am getting closer to this ultimate goal, which as of yet is undefined. It makes me feel great to add a few more on to my shoes, to daily mile, to be closer to another marathon. 🙂
Every mile matters because I suck at running and so I embrace every mile. But as the saying goes, whether the run is fast, slow, short or long, a run is still a run! Please pick me, I am still using the old 305!
What a fabulous giveaway! 😀 Every mile matters to me because it means I am getting stronger and it makes me so unbelievably happy that I am able to enjoy running. If someone told me I would start and love running two years ago, I would laugh (I was never an active person!).
Every mile matters to me because it gives me a challenge – both mentally and physically. At the end, it feels so good to know that I got through the challenge.
Every mile matters to me because I have two teenage daughters that watch and learn from me. Also I want to be healthy enough to keep up with them now and later in life as they grow older.
Every mile matters to me because it’s the little things that add up to a larger goal. Every step is important since it mean I’m that much closer.
Every mile matters because it keeps me sane! I don´t know what I´d do without the mental, physical and emotional outlet that running is for me.
I’m not a natural runner either, and each mile is a struggle for me. But every mile matters because it means I’m one mile closer to done! And the feeling when I’m done is so worth it.
Every mile matters to me because it is just too easy to take good health for granted. Putting in the time and effort of exercise can be difficult, but something that seems like such a chore is actually a privilege!
Every mile matters to me because each mile represents an accomplishment toward a healthy lifestyle. I am a wife,mother, sister, auntie and friend and have a lot of people who need me at my best and staying active helps me acheive this! Thanks for the chance to win 🙂
Every mile matters because its a mile towards staying healthy and active. Running and/or walking daily keeps me sane. I love getting sweaty and feeling accomplished!
Every mile matters to me because I started running at the ripe old age of 40. I was never very athletic but always wanted to run. I was envious of those who did and once I hit 40 I decided to have faith in myself and give it a try. I started off by setting small goals (just run to that tree!) and each time I ran I pushed myself to go farther. I’m still not that fast (most probably walk faster than I run) but I’m out there 4-5 days a week trying to go farther than I did the time before 🙂
Back when I was in high school I didn’t consider myself athletic. I was definitely more focused on the arts. I preferred dance as my physical activity but my school required we play at least 1 competitive sport a year. I chose cross country running because it was the least intimidating to me and I STRUGGLED through it every year. I couldn’t wrap my head around it and I never fully committed myself. I would get so nervous before our weekly 5k races that I’d often have a stomach ache or something and have to miss the race anyway.
Now that I have become more confident with my fitness I realize how incredibly powerful the mind is over the body. 3 miles is a breeze for me now and I love the way it makes my body feel. Every mile matters to me because it reminds me that the body and mind are so very connected and we can not only reach our goals, but try NEW things and come up with NEW goals we never expected we’d have!
Every mile matters because after having to have my knee rebuilt, I realize that I took my ability to move for granted. When you’re on crutches for months and months wanting nothing more than to just walk, let alone work up a good sweat you realize all that your body was meant to do. I’ve never considered myself a runner, but when I make the time to hit the pavement, I always feel like I’ve cleared my head and refreshed my spirit.
Every mile counts because every mile burns calories! And you feel pretty amazing at the end 🙂
Every mile matters to me because I spent my whole life being told that I’m not athletic, or definitely “not a runner.” Running gives me time to think and decompress during stressful times in my life, and with a new baby, I definitely appreciate the times I’m able to get out for a good jog!
Not only does every mile count, but every step counts. When I first started running, I could barely run one lap around a track. It seemed impossible at the time to do more than a quarter of a mile. Then this year, I started training for a half marathon and made it seven miles! I never thought I’d be able to do that. Now I realize with training and with mental toughness, anything is possible!
Every mile matters because it’s a true testament to what your body is capable of doing!
Every mile matters because its proof that I can push myself farther than I thought.
I feel the same way about running! It’s a great way to challenge yourself. I’m currently training for a 10k as well and any time I feel like I don’t want to run I just remind myself about how much better I’ll feel afterwards. And I do. I feel accomplished, I feel stronger and I feel more determined.
Would love to win the new watch! It looks awesome…I’ve been turned off by the bulky Forerunners, but this seems like it has all you need in a cute little watch 🙂
This post is going to make me cry, every mile always counts in this family.
Every mile matters because when I was in high school running was the death of me. A mile would take 12 long minutes, and I remember hating every.second. I was an athlete (a basketball player) but just running was so hard for me. I could never find focus, until 2010. I was a volunteer at the Chicago Marathon and was in shock and awe of what the people were doing as they crossed the finish line.
I was determined to run a Marathon and was inspired by those crossing the finish line, and so I trained and I trained hard and ran the 2011 Marathon. In the same month, I got married, got a job at lululemon and got pregnant (what a very shocking surprise).
If I thought miles counted when I was training for the Marathon, when I got pregnant everything changed. Each mile I ran while I was pregnant (until 26 weeks) I was doing for my little guy. I want him to grow up in a healthy active family. At 7 weeks postpartum I’m finding the miles are excruciating once again. But they all matter. I’m determined to get back to a great mileage count, not only for me but for my family. In fact, I ran my first 5k post baby on Sunday. And he was in the crowd. I was so proud to cross the finish line of that 5k, even with the half marathon being ran beside me. Picking up my sweet baby and putting the mini medal around his neck and giving him kisses, that 5k was as hard for me as the marathon was and each of those 3 miles was filled with “do it, do it, do it, it is hard now, but it will get better.. YOU CAN do this” and I did. <3
For me, every mile counts to prove to myself how strong I am. Every mile counts so that one day I can go just a little bit further than the day before. To maximize my now too full schedule since becoming a mom 4 months ago, every mile needs to count to justify being away from him. Every mile counts so that my son knows that his mama is strong, tough and so we can one day enjoy tacking on the miles together!
Every mile matters to me because I’m the girl that has to labor through each mile. Regardless of how much I’ve worked out….running never becomes “easy” for me. I have to push myself each and every time.
Every mile matters because those miles help me to be healthy and strong- mentally and physically.