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 miles matters because it is just that, a mile. Several years ago I used to stare from the highway at this large park in my city. There were dozens of people, all running on the back side of the park. Each day, I would mentally note the miles they had to have conquered to get to the back of the park, and then realize they were only HALF WAY done! It wasn’t until a year and a half later, when I found myself running on the back of the park, that I realized each mile matters because it puts you incrementally closer to your goal, whatever that may be. I was there, running on the back of the park. How the heck did that happen??? See, the miles aren’t often the focus, but the time it takes to get there, the mental and physical stamina you develop, and the relationships you forge along the way.
As a coach for Girls On The Run, I am often inundated with the wisdom of our third-graders. Their reflections on life and running always bring a smile to my face. Last year, one of our girls said “Think about how awesome you feel when you run a mile – and multiply that times 26! It’s 26 times as awesome and wonderful!” Her sheer breakdown of the daunting marathon distance made me grin as I passed the finish line last fall.
Every mile matters because each mile means something a little bit different to each of us, but we can all share in the common bond of being a runner – no matter the distance!
I have completed 5 half marathons and 2 full marathons. About 2 weeks after my last marathon I conceived my first child and am currently 18 weeks pregnant. Every mile matters to me because I am so thankful i went into pregnancy in as good a shape as I did, and I am continuing to run in hopes of creating the best environment possible for my little one to thrive and grow in. However, I recognize that i may not be able to run much longer since I am getting bigger and bigger everyday! Every mile counts because you never know when it will be your last … at least for a while 🙂
Every mile matters to me because I am in control. There are many things in our lives that demand attention…kids, husbands, jobs, and life in general. While I am running I command the attention. Giving myself time to focus on me gives me the balance and patience I need to focus on the greateful demands of simply living.
Every mile matters to me because more miles means more momentum for me. I’ll run every additional mile understanding what it took for me to get to my current mile: my failures, triumphs and emotions that carried me through previous miles will build on the current mile, and more. Plus, my husband is trailing behind me! I am the family’s health trailblazer, especially when it comes to food and nutrition.
Every mile matters because it’s the one time of the day I can be alone with my thoughts, think through challenges, and re-energize for whatever’s next. Also because I can’t run as many miles as I used to due to an injury, so I appreciate each one even more.
Every mile matters to me because it shows just how far my body can go and how strong it is!
I just recently started running so every mile matters. Running is soo hard and I never imagined I would be able to do it, but with each extra mile I feel better and better!
Every mile matters because it’s important for me to just keep moving. I might not be going very fast, but I’m still making progress.
Every mile counts for me as i’ve never been a runner. I started running the first of 2012 and have done 3 5k’s and 1 10k. I’m training for my first 1/2 in October as it scares me to death to think about it. I’ve had the best support from all my family including my sister who runs with me. She pushes me which is the best feeling knowing that i have her by my side. I believe that every mile counts because you do it for yourself, I dont do it to impress anyone, i do it because i wanted a change (a good one) for myself and decided that you gotta get up off the couch and do something about it. And to call myself a runner now makes me proud to say!
Every mile matters to me because I know this is what I am capable of, running hasn’t been easy for me but when I push myself to limits I know I am capable of every mile is that much more rewarding.
After overcoming some health issues, I know that every mile counts as it is a mile that I am lucky enough to be able to run.
Every mile matters because it is the difference between getting somewhere or staying in place. Moving forward and changing for the better or staying planted and disappointed. Each mile is a testament of where I have been and where I am going. Each mile I reach says to me “you can do this”.
Every mile matters because it gets me that much closer to my goal. Also, it’s another mile “down”. My brother in law just completed a 100 mile race through the Wasatch mountains. I can’t even imagine ever running that far or for that long…unless I was running for my life. It amazes me what people can accomplish when they set a goal, train for it, and then actually do it.
Every mile matters to me because I’ve never been a runner. I jumped in head first two years ago and challenged myself with a marathon (crazy for my first time!). It was a struggle every step of the way and I felt so proud once I crossed that finish line. The hours of training, cross training, and eating properly for a marathon paid off. Every mile still counts a lot to me because it shows me that I can, with hard work and determination accomplish things I have never done before. I have it in me to finish, even if it’s extremely difficult. Plus, this is something I want to set an example for when I have children. I want to show them that not everything will be easy, and the hard work is definitely worth it!
Every mile matters to be for many reasons, one of the most important ones for me is that I want so much to teach my son that healthy is beautiful (skinny is not). I hope to instill in him a love for health and fitness as well.
I have to add that I just did my first half marathon (13 months after having my first baby!) and it was amazing, you really should try it! 🙂 It’s worth it!
Every mile matters because it is a step in the right direction towards a health oriented path. It is by the example we give that our kids learn that exercise should be a very important part of their lives. Hard work and perseverance are learned by experiencing physical challenges and setting higher goals.
I began running about 4 years ago after a bad knee injury when I was a teenager. No matter how tired I am or discouraged I know deep down that every mile I run is another mile that I feel stronger and healthier than I was before that. Nothing quite like accomplishing something you had previously thought would be impossible! 🙂
Hi Gina!! Congrats on finishing your practice 10k! My husband and I have been running in 5ks around town as a goal to keep in shape. Every mile counts because we are running to keep in shape to take care of our family (we have four kids!!) and the races we participate in generally go to help an organization set out to help those in need. For example, this past weekend we participated in a 5k that supports children who have been orphaned due to their parents passing away from AIDS. Poor babies!! In this case every mile counts not just for me but for many. 🙂
Every mile matters, because in the midst of life craziness, it’s what keeps me feeling good.
For me every mile matters because I share these miles with the poodle and each step reminds me how hard we both have worked to be there for each other
Every mile matters to me because running has helped me get through some of the toughest challenges in my life. From moving to a new city without any job or friends, to getting through personal and professional challenges, running helps me refocus and be me. Plus, it can be plain fun!
I’m training for my first half marathon so every mile puts me closer to my half marathon goal! I’ve only been running since the beginning of the year and combined with strength training I’ve lost 10% body fat. Running has changed my life for the better and I love the challenge of pushing myself further each time.
Every mile matters because it is time well spent, Making time for exercising is hard, but it gives me a moment to work on my personal well being, this reflects over time on our whole families. Building healthy habits for our kids is one of the best gifts we can give.
Running for me has been a constant struggle, I have some good days and some days when I just do not feel like doing it. But isn’t life like that? Don’t we all have good and bad days? When I have a not so good running day, I really try to push myself to overcome the struggle, and when I accomplish it my day becomes brighter and I feel more powerful and whole. Saying that every mile matters, means more to me than just running, it affects my day and the outcome of it. Every mile matters indeed!
Every mile matters to me because it mean’s accomplishing something for myself and all by myself!!
Every mile matters to me because running builds my confidence in myself and the strength and courage I have to keep going.
I’ve been running and training for marathons since 2005. I had just entered my sophomore year in college, had gained some weight, and was generally not feeling good about myself. I decided I needed to get myself out of my rut and I needed a goal to do so. I had never really been a runner but for some reason I decided I was going to run a full marathon. I had never even ran an organized race before! I didn’t realize how nuts I was until I started telling people about my goal. I ran an October marathon in Chicago and I trained SO hard and really kept focused and motivated the whole time. I’ll never forget how proud I was to cross the finish line — I couldn’t believe I had actually done it and I had tears running down my face. Now, 7 years later, I’m still running and training for marathons. It is hard for me — I am not a natural gazelle like runner. But I keep at it and get out there every (mostly)morning. I’m proud of myself for sticking to this for so many years. Running gives me peace, clarity, and on those days when I hear the alarm go off and I really don’t want to run, I put on my shoes anyway because I am grateful that I have the ability to run and legs that will take me wherever the route goes. It’s a habit I’m most proud of and I hope to be a lifelong runner. In fact, I have set the goal to run a marathon in EVERY state before I can’t run any longer. I’m going to do it, I know I will, but it will never be easy for me. I don’t have any fancy watches so having a Garmin would really add to my training and allow me to just get out there and see how far/long I can go!
I can’t run much anymore because of recent health issues. But when I do run, each mile means that I am still on my feet and healthy!
Ahhh I’d love to win!! Every mile matters to me because after treating my body so poorly I was unable to run, physically. Now that I’m strong and healthy, I am so thankful I am able to run!! It is not easy for me but the high I get when finished makes the pain worthwhile!
Every mile matters. I can honestly say I do not consider myself a runner. I have always tried to push running into my life, hoping that one day I could be as dedicated as those people I see running 8-16 miles a day. I even tried track in high school. Running was always a scary thing for me. One day I realized running isn’t scary at all. It is not something to judge yourself on or be upset about. Running is for you, and you alone. I can still remember my first “real” run. Of course, at first it was difficult. I didn’t know what I was doing. Something weird happened when I reached that first mile. An uplifting feeling rushed through me. I could no longer even remember why running had been such a burden. I could even understand why someone would choose to run 8+ miles. Not only did I feel uplifted, but I felt a sense of accomplishment. Every mile matters because it’s one more mile that you can show yourself, “I can do it,” and that, “Running truly isn’t scary.” I still struggle to go for a run, but once I am out in the world, experiencing all that running has to offer, I realize that I am whoever I perceive myself as. So today maybe I do consider myself a runner, because after reaching one more mile, I am a little closer to accepting myself.
every mile matters because it feels me feeling great, both physically and emotionally. running frees my mind and puts me in a peaceful state 🙂
Every mile matters because it’s one more mile more than if you didn’t work out. Running is my time and as I compelte each mile, I instantly feel better about life, work, etc. It helps me clear my head after a long day at work or helps me start out my day on the right foot. Thanks for the giveaway and congrats on the new post-baby PDR!
The “miles” have changed for me so Much over the past few years. Running after a baby is so different for me. It’s more a stress relief and a time to unwind rather than counting the mile soley for fitness results. It makes me a better person and a better mom.
Every mile matters to me because running is something I do alone – and for nobody else besides myself:) Sometimes its really hard for people (but women in particular) to take time just for themselves but I think it makes you a healthier happier person. Great giveaway – would love to try out the Garmin and the macaroons!
I started running back in February to cope with a family loss. Running helped me clear my head, & for 30 minutes I was able to focus on something besides my grief. Back then, every mile mattered for my sanity.
Now, I am in a much better place & I know running has helped me get there. Every mile counts, but not for the same reasons. I run now because I enjoy it, because I am able, and because I am grateful.
every mile matters because a healthy body leads to a healthy mind!!
Hey there! Earlier this summer I hurt myself and was unable to run for six weeks. I hated it and realized for the first time how much I had taken so many runs and miles for granted-and how much those runs had helped me emotionally. Running is my absolute favorite way to exercise. I love being outside, feeling the sun on my back, and the feeling of accomplishment when it’s over. In the subsequent weeks following my injury I focused on stretching, listening to my body and feeling better. Last week I went for my first run in a long time and it was amazing to be able to run free of pain. Every mile matters to me now because I know each mile is in a sense, a gift.
Congrats on completing your 10k practice run!
Ever mile matters to me because my husband is training for his first marathin andnim super competitive. I can’t believe how easy he makes it look.. I thought imwas the runner in the family! Ha! Love that forerunner and congrats on your run, I personally think you should go for the half 🙂
Every mile matters to me because….I never thought I could even run a mile. As someone who has struggled with body image issues all her life…exercise (which is the beginning was only running) was a life saver. I ran my first 5K after I lost a bet with a girl friend of mine….after huffing and puffing my way to the finish line I decided I wanted to take better care of myself. I stopped focusing on being “skinny” and started focusing on being healthy and strong….I would get up every morning while everyone slept and each day I could run further and further….I ran a 5K without stopping…and 6 months later ran a 1/2 marathon in 2:02. Running is my peace, my quiet time, and with every mile proof to myself that you can do anything you put your mind to!
Every mile matters because I’m just getting back to running after an injury and I will never take it for granted again! I am so lucky to be healthy able to run.
Every mile matters to me because I used to not be able to run a single one, or even half of one. I never played sports because running was “too hard.” That mentality, combined with the typical college lifestyle, left me unhealthy and unhappy. When I graduated college, I made it a priority to treat myself well with exercise and nutrition. With the help of blogs like yours, I was able to educate and encourage myself. Since graduation (one year ago) I’ve completed a 5k and a 10k, and am working towards a half marathon. Seeing my mileage increase is proof and constant encouragement to myself that I AM a runner and that I CAN go the distance. That’s why every mile, half mile, and even every step, matters to me.
It matters because I want to be a healthy momma for my little girl and for her to have a positive outlook on exercise one day!
Every mile matters to me because its another mile that I feel stronger mentally and physically! It helps me know that I can do hard things in any circumstance.
Congrats on your practice 10K!
The miles matter to me because despite the fact that I really dont love running I push through and complete them! I feel like the determination and perserverance that comes with running those miles makes you more tough when dealing with hard obstacles that come your way in life. Even though it is hard to get out the door sometimes, I always feel sooo good mentally and physically once the run is complete! I have been searching high and low for a smaller gps watch. I borrow my husband’s garmin but it is HUGE! I have not wanted to commit to purchasing one until I liked the fit/size and I am SUPER excited for this new model!! Using a device to track my pace pushes me so much harder during my runs! The miles are also going to start mattering a whole lot more after I have my baby and start working to get back into shape. I hope to pass on the value of a healthy life style to our little one on the way!
The miles matter to me because each step is a sense of accomplishment. A sense of finding my postpartum running groover verse my pre-pregnancy running groove.
Congrats on your 10k!
I’m currently training for my second half marathon, and I have a goal time in mind of what I want to finish at. I know my goal is pretty lofty, comparing to what my first half was, but I’m pushing myself during each training run, and telling myself “anything is possible, if you work hard enough”. It’s really helped me finish some hard runs.
Every mile matters to me because I’m making my body healthier. I’m showing myself that I can do anything–including running!
Every mile matters because I do so many things for all of the important people in my life ( my hubby and 3 young girls). But it’s the one selfish thing that I do for me! Every one of those miles solidifies that I am not only a mother and wife but a strong fierce woman that perseveres! I fight for those miles and am proud of those miles!!!
Great job on your practice run! Every mile matters to me because it is something I can do for my physical and mental health, which I never want to take for granted.
Every mile matters to me because it means that I am staying healthy & happy for my family! It shows my kids that it is important to take care of yourself.