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 because in the end it is simply putting one foot in front of the other, no matter how easy or how hard. It’s about finding your inner strength on difficult days to push through, or celebrating great runs by being willing to recognize your own accomplishments! Every mile encompasses your whole life, not just the one spent in running shoes.
Every mile matters to me because every mile is a choice: keep going or head home. When it feels like other things in life are out of my control, running is a kind of freedom because I know that I get to decide how far, how fast, how hard. And I make that choice in consultation with my body and my environment – every mile presents this perfect challenge to overcome.
Every mile matters to me because it is always a challenge. I don’t think I’ll ever be a runner that thinks, “oh, that 10 mile run was so easy.” I have to work hard to get through those miles and the feeling that you’ve done something for yourself is priceless!
Every mile matters to me because it shows me I still have that, “I can’t do whatever I put my mind to”. I lost that for a bit … maybe because I worked so hard to become an attorney and now that I am, there is nothing major I’m working on? Whatever it is, training for a half marathon is what is helping me get that mind set back!
Every mile matters to me because it’s a challenge both physically and mentally. Also, running gives me time to decompress and think about things that have been weighing on my mind.
Every mile matters to me because it keeps me sane! I have an extremely stressful job, and running helps clear my head and relieve stress.
Every mile matters to me because it puts me closer and closer to achieving my goals! I am hoping to run a 1/2 marathon in January, and working toward this goal has been a challenge but as I build up my endurance and increase my miles… nothing beats that feeling of accomplishment! I am in LOVE with this new Garmin!!!
Every mile matters to me because it remnds me how lucky I am to be able to run. Being injured and havign to rehab was frustrating so each mile is a blessing!
Every mile matters because it gives me a sense of purpose and accomplishment. We recently PCSed, I haven’t found work yet, and my husband is now deployed- training for a half marathon gives my days structure. Each mile forces me to get out and move and keeps my outlook positive 🙂
I don’t run anymore because it bothers my knees, but every workout matters to me because it is the one thing I do for “me”. I have 4 kids and they are pretty much my whole life because I’m a SAHM. My workouts are my time to focus on myself for a change, although I definitely workout to set a good example for my kids, too.
I’m not to the point of running miles yet, but every step I take is a step towards accomplishing my goal of running a half marathon. By focusing on a single step at a time, I am reminded that small actions can lead up to something bigger.
Every mile matters because it is time for just me!
Great timing for this giveaway… I was considering purchasing my first Garmin!
Like you, running doesn’t come easily to me. I don’t think i’ll ever call myself a “runner” and I prefer weights/Crossfit. However, I still challenge myself to run once a week and to do a few races in the summer. Not only does it benefit charities I believe in but I like to participate because I CAN. I am strong enough to run 5k. I have the luxury of time and donation fees. I am able bodied and strong. Sitting on the couch benefits no one. Spending just 30 minutes running a 5k (if I’m lucky!) makes a small difference to a charity and makes me feel accomplished.
Every mile matters for the simple reason that I get an overwhelming pride in my body and mind for pushing through.
Every mile matters to me because I was born with a genetic lung disease. I just signed up for my first half marathon at the end of October. I’m into my 4th week of training and it’s been really tough. But after every run i feel stronger and know that I’m doing something positive for my health. Thanks for your blog it always inspires me to keep going!
now that i have serious IT issues, every mile matters because i can’t run as frequently as i’d like. anything over a 5k gives me serious pain, and no matter how much time i spend on the foam roller it doesn’t seem to help much. i miss it!
Every mile matters to me because my precious Aunt B recently passed away because of ALS and I saw a nurse who was compeltely active her whole life turn into a vegetable. It was heart wrenching to witness. Everytime I don’t feel like running I think about her, and how she would have probably given the world just to be able to walk or hold her grandchild and it makes me so so thankful for little things we rarely take time to appreciate.
Every mile matters for the same reason that every day matters – it’s one more chance to be grateful for my health and grateful for the day!
Wow, that’s a cute Garmin. I don’t run a lot these days (though I think I will ramp back up at the end of the year), so every mile I run reminds me of everything running has taught me and all the fun experiences I’ve had racing and running with others. Quality over quantity… for now.
Every mile matters to me because 10 years ago, I couldn’t walk. I was in a car accident that left me struggling to move for years. I slowly found that the more I moved, the better I felt! I’ve become a very athletic person since then–much more so than I ever would have been without the accident. Each mile is pain relief and stress relief and lets me eat a few more cookies. 🙂 Long distance trail running and road biking are my favorites. Love the blog! Thanks.
Every mile matters to me because running isn’t the easiest for me but the feeling of accomplishment I get after even just a few miles is so rewarding. It is such a great feeling.
Like you, running is a challenge for me. I love working out, but I typically prefer classes or compound workouts with variety. However, I do love the feeling of accomplishment that I get after a successful run. I don’t run fast, and I don’t run far, but every mile that I do run is a huge achievement.
Every mile matters to me because it makes me feel proud of myself! For so long I told myself that I would never be able to be a runner and now I have proved myself wrong. I am a runner! I may not be fast and I may not look like your “typical” runner but each time I put one foot in front of the other I feel strong and at the end of my run I feel SO accomplished. Thank you for encouraging me to reflect on this!
Every mile matters to me because it shows my determination won out over staying in bed longer, giving up or just being a sloth (I definitely have those days too) and it’s one more goal that has been achieved. Running has become my outlet, my workout, my challenge, and my passion!
Although I love running, I find that I can only run a couple times a week without feeling like it’s more of a chore. For me, fitness is about finding activities that I enjoy and not forcing myself to love one particular activity. I love mixing it up!
Every mile counts as steps to improve my health, keep my diabetes as diet controlled, and give myself time to think, contemplate, unwind! I also think it gives me courage to face fears head on. To challenge myself in other areas of life! It makes me feel strong!
Every mile leads to more mental and emotional control over myself. My run is where I deal with all of my daily problems and struggles, and return home a much calmer and happier person!
Every miles I run/walk/travel fills me with gratitude. It makes me grateful for all that I have, all that I am able to do, and all that I am able to give.
every mile you go puts you a little closer to your goal, whether it’s a physical goal such as running, or a figurative goal – putting in that little extra time or effort is so beneficial, especially for the mental boost it gives you!
Every mile matters because every mile is different. The way my body and mind feel at mile 1 is always completely differen than they way they feel at 3. The beginning of every run is usually the hardest for me–it’s a great feeling to realize that I’m no longer super aware of every step or distracted by my clothes, shoes, etc., but have let my mind wander and my feet have taken over!
Every mile matters to me because I have a little pig valve in my heart, making things work and it amazes me every day that I can run with that thing!!
Every mile means that I’m thankful to have my health – and thankful for every ounce of wind I suck, every pound of my heart and every drop of sweat. I hope I’m able to enjoy every mile ahead of me for a long time coming . . . fantastic giveaway! And congrats to you for jumping back on the “running” wagon and really doing an impressive job right out of the gate.
Thanks – Mo
As a working mom of a 3 year old and 7 month old, every mile matters because it reinforces to me the importance of taking the time to regularly do something for myself! Plus, like you mentioned, I want to set a positive, active, and healthy example for my kids.
Every miles matters to me because I always thought I could never be a runner and after training for and completing my 1st half marathon a couple weeks ago it proved to me that with hard work and a never give up attitude, anything is possible.
Every mile matters quite simply because I never thought I’d be able to finish a mile : ) Even though I was somewhat athletic growing up, running was just never something I could do. Remember those presidential physical fitness tests? Yeah…I would nail everything except the mile (pretending the pull ups didn’t exist because who could do those??). Fast forward to today..29 years old and I’ve completed a couple of 5ks and regularly run a few times a week. Nothing spectacular, but I do it and, more importantly, I ENJOY it.
i’ve had to completely revamp my running at 7+ months pregnant. 7 mile runs are now 3 and a 8:00 min/mi pace is now closer to 10:00, but every mile matters because learning to adapt is one of life’s great lessons. sure i can’t bust out a sub 4 hour marathon tomorrow, but i have a healthy little boy growing inside of me… and that’s what really matters 🙂
After fracturing my lower back in middle school and wearing a brace throughout high school (not quite so Joan Cusack ala Sixteen Candles, but not fun anyway), I was finally able to train for my first half marathon in this past February! (It was the Disney Princess run… I highly suggest it for a first half marathon if you are not even remotely concerned about time.) Every mile counts for every day in high school when I thought that doing things like running half marathons were out of my realm of possibility.
Every miles matters to me because like you, running does not come easy for me. It’s something I’ve worked hard at in order to achieve my long distance running goals. Every mile is especially difficult these days as I’m 25 weeks pregnant with my second son! I live in the NYC metro area and since 2002 I’ve been trying to get into the NYC marathon — and it’s been an unobtainable goal of mine. It’s a lottery system and if you don’t get in within 3 consecutive years you get an automatic bye the following year. Over the years I’ve never gotten in with the lottery and have had to give up my automatic byes due to unforeseen circumstances such as deciding to go to law school, injuries, being pregnant and this year I finally got in through the lottery system and then promptly found out I was pregnant again! Of course I’m so thankful to be expecting another beautiful baby but I was determined to run that marathon this year. However, I found out that I can defer my lottery acceptance until next year so I am determined to run NYC in 2013…even if that means I’ll have to start training less than 6 months after giving birth — I can guarantee you, every mile will count double for me next year as well!!
Every mile matters to me because it is a step in the direction of health and not backwards into my old lifestyle. Every mile makes me glad that I am doing something positive for myself and my family! Every mile would also be an excuse to eat another delicious roon. 🙂
Every mile matters to me because every mile is another opportunity to push myself, telling me how strong I am, even when I think I’m not. Sometimes when it seems just too difficult, I remind myself that I am lucky to be able to run, and for this, I am so thankful.
Every mile matters to me (more now than ever) because when I was injured I couldn’t run or do anything active and I really learned to appreciate when I can be active and run and walk any distance. The future hubs is a runner and always encourages me to stick with my running and fitness plans and that helps me stay on track. I always feel SO great after a run and never regret at workout. Being active is something I won’t take for granted anymore!
Every mile matters to me because 5 years ago I never would have thought that I could run a mile. And this past weekend I did my 7th half marathon. I am amazed every day by how strong my body is.
Every mile matters because if I don’t run I know how depressed and in a funk I can get. I live at my boyfriends parents house so some days it’s the only time I have to myself because his mom is also my boss. I live in Atlanta so most of my running is done on the treadmill due to the extreme humidity we get in the summers. After an 8 hour day of work I have to keep reminding myself that getting on that treadmill will make me feel so much better about myself afterwards. All the sweat, grunting and pushing myself up the incline is worth it in the end because I accomplished something for me and didn’t give up when I so easily could have quit.
Every mile matters because each one is one closer to your fitness/weight goals, and once you start to think it doesn’t matter that’s when you stop making it a priority.
Gosh, even a tenth of a mile means SO much when you’re training. Real talk: running is HARD, and it’s such a mental sport. Every time I’m able to crank out just a llliiittle bit more mileage than last time it’s the BEST-feeling-in-the-world! Congrats on your successful practice 10k!
Every mile matters to me because its steps towards keeping my body and mind healthy! What a great giveaway!
Every mile matters to me because I’m in a journey to change my life! I’ve lost 70lbs in the last year and still have about 30 to go, and running has played such a huge part in my success.
Every mile matters because its an extra few minutes I’m giving to myself. It means that no matter how stressed out I get with life (I’m a grad student, it happens a lot), and no matter how little time I seem to have, that I still took time to respect myself and my body, and get out there and do something for me (and my sanity).
Every mile matters because I feel lucky to be out there breathing the fresh (or not so fresh) air, and moving my body! And I just started training for my own two Fall 10K’s today with a 3 mile jog!
I love running for many reasons, but the main reason is I try so hard to be an example to my parents, both are overweight, and no matter what I “say” or how much I “say” it, they haven’t decided to change their lifestyle, it makes me sad and I try to be as much of an encouragement as I can, but I am hoping that my “actions” might motivate them.