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 it has been my saving grace for the past month, through a bit of a rough patch. <3
Every mile matters to me because it’s another mile towards my goal of running a full marathon (hopefully next year!). I, like you, also want to set a good example for others (my step-children, family and friends). And, every mile matters because I love the feeling during and after a great run (and even a not so great run!). There are so many positive benefits of running! I love it even on the days it’s hard.
Running teaches me about setting goals and holding myself accountable for those goals. Every time my foot falls, I make further progress toward the things in life that I truly want and desire.
I ruined my knee a few years ago, when I was in high school. During rehab, I made myself an “inspiration board” and what took up a lot of space were my most personal notes:
– A soccer ball-shaped sticky note with a hand-written quote attributed to Saïd Aouita, a Moroccan Olympian: “Those who say that I will lose and am finished will have to run over my body to beat me.”
– A photocopied page from the chapter entitled “Savages and Blunt Instruments” of famed U.S. women’s soccer coach Anson Dorrance’s book The Vision of a Champion.
– A type-written letter from my soccer coach after my lost season, with a section that read: “You won’t be able to make up for weaknesses with natural athleticism…”
Keeping reminders of the goals I have and things that I find inspirational really pull me through runs. It’s been five years and I still have problems with my knee, but I’m also still running and still making goals.
Every mile counts, because I am pulling myself into the future–MY future, the one that I plan for, dream about, and work towards.
Every mile matters to me because last year I couldn’t even walk. I had brain surgery to remove a tumor, leaving my right leg paralyzed. It’s not exactly something you expect to happen at 22. Luckily with lots of physical therapy and an awesome support system I made a full recovery! Every time I head out the door I remind myself to never take my awesome legs (and brain!) for granted 🙂
Every mile matters to me because after a horrible car accident with a drunk driver, I didn’t think I’d be able to run again. Every mile I run, especially every mile pushing my baby boy, feels like a victory – no matter how slow those miles might be!
First off, thank you for the giveaway, I’ve been wanting a Garmin for so long now. You know, to keep track of those miles.
Every mile matters to me because it’s one step closer to my goal, whatever that goal is at the time. I ran my first 1/2 marathon in Vegas after three days of Vegas last December (yes, crazy) but I fell in love with it after that. I highly recommend it, there’s no feeling like the “finally crossing that finish line” feeling.
Most of the time though the miles matter to me because it takes the stress and worry and troubles away. It seems like the more miles the more clarity, and I love me some clarity.
Every mile counts b/c it is an accomplishment whether it’s just one mile or 100 miles, I am thankful that I am strong enough (physically and mentally) to be able to acomplish these things. I enjoy pushing myself and I feel proud of myself afterwards. I’ve never regretted going out for a run or pushing myself just that much harder!
Every mile matters to me because I’m not always sure that I can make one more! I’m not a very good runner, so when I get to another mile it feels like a HUGE accomplishment!
Coming from a new(ish) runner, every mile matters to me because every mile shows me that my body really can do whatever I want it to if i just push myself. And the rush I get after running is worth every single mile. I really do feel like a just won a mini battle of the mind… because that’s all it really is, a mind game! Every mile matters because I constantly prove to myself that I can do whatever I put my mind to. And that is a lesson that can be applied to every area of life!
Every mile matters because I am training for my first race (Bisbee1000) and wow – 4.3 miles feels MUCH longer than the 5k (3.1 miles) I thought the race was… But now that I’m walking/jogging that extra mile, I feel like I’ll be able to do it for real next month.
Congrats on completing your training! Having a beautiful place like Sabino really helps; I would not have started running if I didn’t also have a beautiful place to do it.
Every mile matters to me because for most of my life, I never thought I could be a runner, but now I’ve completed a few 5Ks and feel like I can do it! I love the way I feel after I finish a run and am always working to get better and stronger.
Every mile matters to me because each mile means one more step toward a healthy, happier and longer life. Running has truly become a passion of mine and has such positive effects on my daily life!
Many, many posts ago you wrote about not focusing on time, but making sure that you get in at least two miles – I’ve never forgotten that goal or encouragement as I’ve struggled to regain my health and sense of self, for myself and for my children.
Every mile matters because it proves that I can do anything, I can do more than I thought that I could and now my children can trot alongside me and enjoy the confidence that they can push through anything too just by putting one foot in front of the other.
I’m a new mom too so every mile matters because I’m slowly getting back into running…every mile is an accomplishment!
I have always wanted a garmin but the price tag can be pretty steep! I’d love to try this new (simpler) model!
To me, every mile completed strengthens my ‘cans’ and diminishes my ‘cants’; it serves as a reminder for times of self doubt in all aspects of my life. Exercise has instilled a sense of confidence within me, and it has been an amazing tool to help me pursue my passions, dreams and goals. <3
Every mile (or km) counts because it reminds me to keep trying, even if that means it never really gets “easier”. When I started running, I thought I’d get past the huffing and puffing stage and eventually breeze through running like a montage in a movie…. not so much. It continues to be a struggle for me, it’s always difficult, but I always remind myself how luck I am that I have the choice, time, and ability to run at all.
Glad your practice 10k went well!
Every mile matters because with each step I take, as painful or as uncomfortable as it may be, I try to let a little bit more go (more being stress, sadness, or whatever has been bugging me lately). When I’m finished with a run, whether it’s just a brisk stroll around the block or a longer trek, I feel like I’ve accomplished something and can get through everything. 🙂
Every mile matters to me because running also does not come easy to me, so it means there has been a lot of hard work that went into making it through!
I think every mile matters in that each mile I pass its like a mental milestone, because I once couldn’t even walk up the stairs without getting exhausted, when my physical condition was so poor. It proves you can get outside your comfort zone and make changes.
Every mile counts… because I can finally do one. I never could before. I walked 2.5 miles yesterday and, for my formerly obese self, that is a major deal. Every bite of salad instead of mac and cheese along with each mile has transformed me, and we will continue.
Every mile matters because it’s proof of what my body is capable of. I never thought I was the runner type, and while it’s not my favorite (and I use the term run loosely), I am beyond proud of the 5Ks and half marathon that I’ve completed. I like setting an example for my kids that exercise is not only important, but that you can do so many things if you just try and practice, and you may even have fun at the same time.
Every mile matters to me because I am not a “natural” runner. Running is incredibly hard for me so when I finally made it to a PDR of 5 miles, it was the best feeling ever!
Every mile matters to me because of my daughter, liv, too. I want to set a good example for her and live long enough to see her become a mother if she chooses!
Every mile matters for a whole bunch of reasons, but the most is that my mom can’t run. After a massive stroke her right side will never be the same and while she was never a runner, she said to me one day, “I wish I could run,” and it broke my heart that she can’t. So I run for her and that’s why every mile matters
Every mile counts because every mile, every time, is different! I always cherish my girlfriend chat time, and the alone runs are invaluable to sort out thoughts, and other times, it just plain hurts. Never know what I’m gonna get.
And, I have the same experience with my mega huge garmin as well! 🙂
Every mile is a reminder of how incredibly strong the human body is. I feel so fortunate to be able to fulfil my passion to live a healthy lifestyle through running.
You know, I used to hate running long distances. I was a sprinter/hurdler in high school and anything beyond 2 laps around the track was pure torture 🙂
Now I am getting into long distance running. I like that I have to set goals – it takes time and effort to train – and in the end, I’ve accomplished something. I don’t care how slow I am, I am doing it for me. I’m not trying to get into the Olympics or anything…
Now, since I’ve had Max, I have to plan my runs and sometimes I don’t get to go out. I’ve enjoyed running with Max in tow including doing a few races with him. Hearing other runners cheering me on was a fantastic feeling. Getting a sub-30 5K in while pushing a chariot was another great feeling. When I run on my own, I like to think to myself and just have some me-time. Somedays (now that I am surrounded by teens all day) I really really need that time.
Every mile (or KM…..Go Canada) matters!
Every mile matters in running because it isn’t always easy! Sometimes it’s harder than others but with motivation from within and around me (including your blog!) I keep on doing it. Heck, sometimes every step matters….the little movement forward to my goals. Every “mile” matters in life!
Gah, that new Garmin is beautifully green. I so don’t need it. The Husband has been using my 305 but we don’t NEED another one…but its green. And I’m a sucker for green. Ah, the tough life decisions!
Great job on your 10K! I have a 10k race this coming Sunday…let’s just say I’m a tiny bit nervous! A really big tiny bit!
Oops, I forgot to add my reason why every mile counts. Sorry for the double post!
Right now I’m not in training for anything, just running for fun. And so I can continue to eat a meal a day at Panera, where I’m a manager…don’t ever look at their nutritional book! Ever!
Anywho, every mile counts because it is one more mile I get to spend outside exploring Colorado. Lately my runs have been on well known routes but I have high hopes for trying out new trails later this week and I cannot wait to put some distance on my trail shoes and see the true beauty of the state. I am so grateful that we moved here!
Every mile matters to me because its hard. Its the only thing I struggle with and have to mentally and physically push myself at. I recently ran my first half marathon in dallas in 107 heat and every mile was a struggle. I could have gave up, I could have stopped but I pushed myself. The.single most rewarding momentwas crossing that finishline and having that medal placed around my neck. I cried the happiest tears at that moment.
every mile counts for me because i know i’m becoming healthier and stronger with every step. it not only makes me healthy physcially, but mentally too. i use it as my almost daily time to think and reflect on my life. now that i have a daughter, it has become about being a good example for her. i want her to fill her body with good things and respect and take care of it. i want to be a good example for her on how to do those things.
Running doesn’t come easy to me. I suffer from asthma as well as arthritis so when I decided I was going to start running consistently a few years ago, it was a rough start. Many times my runs ended with me crying on the walk home from the trail because my knees and lungs were killing me….and I was only in my early 20s. BUT, I stuck with it and by no means is it easy now, but it’s a lot easier and my joints and lungs are in a lot better shape than they were. I still have my off days, but I am much healthier and happier with running as a part of my life!
I completed my first half-marathon a few months ago, and although I’ve been a runner for years, it really changed my perspective on running. When I get tired on a short run now, I remind myself of those 13.1 miles and I know I can do it! Every mile matters to me, whether it’s one of three or one of thirteen, because I now know that I’m capable of more than I ever thought possible.
Running has never been my thing. I would rather do any other fitness activity before getting on the treadmill. A year ago I decided to sign up for a triathlon, knowing it would force me to out in the training to complete the run. I started out slow, and just kept building my mileage until I hit 5k. I was surprised that I could do it, and didn’t hate it as much as I thought I would. I continue to run 3 times per week, just to maintain my running fitness. I actually ran a 10k with my sister too. I never thought I would do that, so now I am setting my sights on a 10 miler, and eventually a half-marathon. You never know what you can accomplish until you try.
I’ve been running for a long time, but it still isn’t something that comes easily to me. I have to work for each and every mile! Each mile matters to make myself stronger and healthier, mentally as well as physically.
Congrats on finishing your practice 10K! When I did a half marathon, I felt so good getting up to those distances!
Every mile matters to me because it gives me the energy I need to keep up with my 4 kiddos!
Every mile matters to me because each step is helps me maintain my mental and physical health. And every mile is different – sometimes the first few fly by and I trudge along through the end. Sometimes I’m amazed how much better I feel after a few miles. On the best days, all the miles feel awesome, and on the worst, the entire run feels like torture. But no matter how hard or easy the run is, I learn something about myself or my body, and I really value that.
Every mile matters because I make it matter. I set a goal for myself before I begin my run, and to me, completing that goal and following through with something as small as that little goal I set for myself makes my feel good. Even if my legs feel like dog pooh, thinking about the number of miles I planned on running gets me through it. If i say 6, I give it my all to make that 6 🙂
Every mile counts to me because it feels like a huge accomplishment every time I finish a run. I love the feeling of knowing my body is strong enough to finish a mile or a run.
Oh love how small it is! Every mile counts for me because right now I’m 20 weeks pregnant with our 4th child (I’m walking). Like you, when I’m not pregnant, I run although it doesn’t come easily to me. But I love being active with my husband and setting a good example for our kids. Last year, we lost a baby boy at 18 weeks for no known cause. I have tried so hard to eat well and stay active to give this little peanut the best possible start. It’s not so hard to find motivation when I look at my kids and think about this baby! I can’t wait to get back into running again after the baby comes. I’ve done 5k’s but never a 10k and I think I might set that as a goal. Makes me nervous though!
Every mile matters because running saved my life. I grew up overweight and self-conscious in a family full of health conscious people. I was made fun of and began to resent being alive. I developed an eating disorder that lasted 6+ years and took me into my twenties unhealthy but finally “slim.” It wasn’t until I began running that I realized I needed to fuel myself better in order to do it right. Every single mile I have logged has been a journey to recovery. Every single mile has reminded me why I’m here fighting. Every mile has made a difference in my life and has made me realize that being healthy is better than being skinny. I would love this watch!
I did not get into running in any way shape or form until after college as a way to get fit and really, really wanted to attempt a 5K. I’m thankful for every mile because it makes me feel strong and restores confidence that I really can do it. I’m not fast, nor will I ever be on the award stand, but I’ve had fun at races and met so many people through running… or jogging is more like it 😉
every mile matters because i started out not even able to keep it up for a whole mile! every little bit counts, and every extra mile makes me smile just a little more.. 2 half marathons down this year and i couldnt be prouder of myself!
Every mile matters to me because I struggle with my weight—I lost 30 lbs. two years ago and I’ve struggled to keep it off. I’m still in the middle of the fight, but I won’t back down!
every mile matters for me because it’s something i’m doing for myself and my family. not only is it about my physical health, but it’s also about my mental health and setting the example. i have been sick for the past week and i am so anxious to get back out there and RUN!
Every mile matters to me because it makes me feel like I conquered the world.. Every mile is a step towards a healthier, stronger and more confident version of myself..
You only regret the runs you don’t do..
Every mile matters to me because it makes me feel like I conquered the world.. Every mile is a step towards a healthier, stronger and more confident version of myself..
You only regret the runs you don’t do..
Every mile matters to me because I’m just starting out at running and every mile I run is another mile under my belt. It symbolizes another accomplishment, another goal I’ve met. It’s very good positive reinforcement.