To run…?
Hi guys 🙂 How are ya? Hope your day is off to a great start! I posted the Week 4 Summer Shape Up workout late last night, for those of you who have early AM workouts.
We spent all day yesterday at the beach <3
Even though I’m a huge ocean chicken –even more so after a Bahamian jellyfish stung me on the ta-ta– I went in the water, read The Help (LOVE it so far!) and munched on a macaroon Larabar.
My favorite flavor:
+ almost an entire bag of Publix organic baby carrots 🙂
For dinner, we went out to eat at the pier:
The restaurant has fabulous drinks and supah fresh food.
The table shared these glorious sweet potato fries– I had quite a few 🙂
And for my entree, I rolled with the seaweed salad and Ahi Tuna + a side of wasabi
It was everything I could wish for 🙂
We came back to my aunt’s, watched movies and called it a night.
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What to do???
So I’m about to head to oven yoga (aka Bikram), but I wanted to ask ya’ll about what your thoughts are on possibly running the Rock n’ Roll Half marathon in Vegas. Is anyone planning on participating? I’ve decided not to finish the 3rd month of Insanity that I had planned– the workout is only 2 months (which I completed!) but I repeated parts of Month 1. I really want to keep doing the program because I’m in love with it (and Shaun T. haha), but I’d like to take down the intensity of my workouts and get more into yoga, strength training and lower-impact stuff like spinning for a while.
So as ya’ll know, I broke up with running after the last half marathon, because I wasn’t enjoying running like I used to, and eventually hurt my VMO with the mediocre training and race. I didn’t train as efficiently as I did for my first half marathon, which I believe contributed to my burnout and injury. Since I’ve taken a break from running for about 3 months, I thought that I might feel refreshed and give it another whirl- and then stop if I decide that it’s not what I want to do.
Motivation for this decision:
-Mizfit is doing the Rock N’ Roll Half in Vegas… and I want to hang out with her 🙂 ESPECIALLY since we didn’t get the chance to chill at the Princess Half.
-There’s a chance that the pilot could be very busy with *work stuff* in the fall and training for something is always a great distraction
I have no idea if I should or 100% want to run another half. I think it would be fun to train *well*, focus just on light running, yoga and weights, and share support with a bunch of bloggers who would want to participate, whether virtually or physically. It’s always fun to have a goal together, whether you plan on participating in a race or accomplishing another type of fitness endeavor.
On the other hand, it would also be fun to just travel to Vegas and cheer on everyone. Or even walk/run the race? No need to set any crazy PRs.
So.. what do you think?
Would you give running, my sleazy ex-boyfriend a second chance?
Or would you let him wait it out a little longer??
I’m asking for *your* advice, bloggies 🙂 In the end, I’ll make my own decision but as always, love to hear your advice and input.
Have a wonderful day and I’ll see ya later this afternoon <3
xoxo,
Gina
Something to do: Week 4 of the Summer Shape Up!
Something *else* to do: Meet me back here later this afternoon for a giveaway! It’s a good one 🙂
112 Comments
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I think exercise should be fun, and if you even have to question it, I don’t know if I’d do it. Can’t you just start running for fun again, see if you enjoy it, and if so, then train? I never do anything I don’t love and don’t absolutely 100% have a passion to do.
OK, I am definitely biased, but you have my full on support to do it!! The Rock N Roll marathons are a blast and very well organized, it’s a totally different experience. You’ve already recognized the fact that major you could train a little more and just because it’s a 1/2 marathon, you don’t have to only run for training – try weights, your yoga, etc.
You can still enjoy other things besides running when training.
I really hope you do it! But at the end of the day, do what you feel comfortable committing to.
Ahh, great beach pics!
I would do whatever you truly feel. I love running so it isn’t an issue for me. On the other hand, I do not want to train for another marathon and I’m kinda faced with the same problem as you are. I’m planning on waiting it out for a little while and seeing how I feel. I’m already training for a half ironman and the marathon in question is about a month after that. I might just be done with working out for a while after my HIM though. Good luck with your decision. 😉
I’m with Jessica on this. If it’s not something you absolutely love and crave and feel the risks associated with it, are worth it, than don’t do it.
There are too many enjoyable options when it comes to exercise to do something “just because.”
I used to try to be a runner because a lot of my friends were. But, I hate, loathe, despise running! I can’t like it.
But that’s ok, because there are so many other options I absolutely LOVE, enjoy, and get results with.
Do what you love and enjoy. Life’s too short to do something just because.
I’m biased because of my injury, but I say wait it out a bit longer. If you’re not in love with running, why risk it?
I think it sounds freaking awesome – if you REALLY want to do it. If you WANT to train and make sure you’re on your game for it, you should totally go for it, but your apprehensions make me feel like maybe you should just go to Vegas to have an awesome itme haha.
I really don’t think there’s a right or wrong in this situation, of course, but whatveer is right for your body and makes you feel comfortable is where you should be heading!
I think the best part about being healthy and loving to exercise is you can choose to do exercise however you want to. I will say this, though. I remember when my husband, who played college tennis, decided to get in better shape so he could play better tennis. But he became obsessed with his fitness program – to the point where it took over his tennis. He had to rethink it because he realized that even though he was in the best shape ever – he had compromised on his primary goal, and he found that was the wrong decision for him. My point is that you should think about your primary goals and see if the marathon training is truly compatible with them. That should help you decide what to do. Good luck with your decision – sounds like you can’t go wrong either way! 🙂
Hi! I love your blog! I have been reading it for sometime now. I ran the Rock N Roll half marathon in Virgina Beach in 2006 and it was an awesome expericence. Very fun! I would say start out running again for fun and if it feels right start training. I am stuffering a running injury right now. It is weird not running all the time but I am having fun doing other cardio and exercise to keep it fun.
I have a question for you… I know you are a trainer so I thought you would have good advice. Do you recommend thermogenic supplements? I have been hearing alot of about them lately. I am trying to lean out and didn’t know if they were safe. I have really cleaned up my eating and focusing on that- but didn’t know if thermogenics would give me a boost or hurt me? What do you recommend?
girl, i just say listen to your body and listen to your heart 🙂 if you WANT to run, and aren’t just doing it for some other reason, go for it! we love ya no matter what, and if another messy break-up ensues then you’ll know it’s not a forever relationship 😉
Hi Gina,
One of the runner’s in my weekly running group has done LV Rock n Roll and she really liked it- it was flat and fast and there were lots of fun distractions during the race.
She compared it against the San Diego RnR and said LV was more fun!
I’m not a runner, but I feel like if you don’t feel 100% about something you shouldn’t do it. You don’t want to risk getting injured!!
If you really want to do it though, maybe you could test out running and see how you feel before you sign up for it…talk to a doctor about what happened the last time you ran and find ways to improve on your training that you didn’t do last time.
I am going through the same situation – I’m considering doing Boston in 2011 because I’m still qualified for one more year, but I’m not entirely sure my heart is in it. It would be an awesome experience I’m sure, but like you said, do you really really want it?
I’ve heard a little bit about the Rock n Roll Vegas marathon and apparently it’s loads of fun, so I think that if you’re going to do one, that would be a good way to ‘give the sleazy boyfriend a second chance’. 😉 But as I’m sure you know, there’s a lot of training that has to go into it, and it’s more important to be healthy and injury free. I say, give it another week or two, and keep asking yourself if you really want it. If you do, give ‘er!
I agree with most of the other comments. Maybe go on a few dates with running again, then see how you feel. If your heart still pitter-patters, maybe running deserves a second chance… if it feels like work, then maybe there is a reason you broke up 😉
PS- I’m reading The Help too! Love it so far (about 1/2 way through)
I would say, do what you feel like doing. You have loads of support either way!
You could always start training for it and then see how you feel? I actually just did that and ended up not running my half given how my body felt. As long as you go into it with the expectation that you are open to listening to your body, it should be fine. Plus, it could be fun to travel there and I bet once you got there, you’d be motivated to do it (even if you do it slow). Rock and Roll halfs are super fun!
First off…mmm, sweet potato fries.
Second, I’d suggest going out and running just for fun a few times. If you enjoy it, then start training for the half marathon! If you don’t, then don’t do it.
I would most definitely say go for it!! Just keep in mind the goals- fitness and FUN!!! So if an injury flares up, stop. If a PR isn’t the goal, but fitness and fun, challenging yourself etc. are goals, you really have nothing to lose! You just might surprise yourself and fall in love again! 🙂
(I’m going to do my third half in Sept, so know how the training goes- my only goal is to beat my time from the previous year!)
I think you should go for it! Maybe start running a bit before signing up for the race, so should you decide you’re not ready to *get back together* with running, you won’t have wasted the money.
I’m with you… I want to get back to running as soon as I complete P90X (T-minus 2 weeks!). I’d be happy to be your virtual partner! 🙂
Selfishly, I think you should do it because I need to start training for one and would love to follow along with your training!
But in the end, I think you should listen to your legs… maybe try a few small runs and see ow it feels?
I say, only do it if you’re going to enjoy doing it, and the training to get ready for it. You certainly don’t want it to become a hassle, otherwise you won’t have fun. And that’s what exercise is supposed to be about! 🙂
P.S. – Sweet potato fries are my nemesis…I LOVE them!!! 😀
What’s that saying…”if you love something, let it go and if it’s meant to be, it will come back to you”??
Sounds like running came back to you ;).
I say do it! ROCK IT OUT.
Just do a nice easy one and see how it makes you feel.
I’d start running a couple days a week and just see how you feel. If you’re not so into it, kick running to the curb. If you are loving it (or even just liking it) maybe you should give him a second chance!
I say play around with the idea this summer and see how your body feels. You have plenty of time to train if it’s in the fall. I think you should come to Tucson and do the half marathon on December 12! 🙂
Personally I think you SHOULD try training for a half in the fall ( for selfish reasons) because I am also going to attempt it 🙂 I don’t want to be alone in my training!!
I think that if you want to run, you should! Everything in moderation, right? Add it to the workout rotation a couple time a week, see how your body feels, and go from there.
That’s a tough decision. I ran a halfie in April and immediately signed up for another one in September. Within 1 week of paying for the Sept. race I sprained my ankle (pracing around in heels!). My ankle is much better now but I am having a heck of a time getting back into running. I ran 6 yesterday and it was awful. I was cursing myself by the time I *finally* got home. I am not sure why I am having such a hard time and I cannot believe I ran 13 such a short time ago. I hope to get my groove back soon! Good luck with your decision!
I am in favor of you going for it but not pushing yourself too hard and doing the whole walk/run thing….and just having FUN with it!! No stress, just enjoying yourself. Good luck!!!
I would start the training and see how I felt. If you feel like you enjoy running again go for it. If it bothers your knee or you find yourself dreading it, hold off. Running for fun and maybe run/walking a bit is a great idea, but depending on your personality it could be difficult to stick to that plan. I am a bit type A and have trouble not giving it everything I’ve got at times. Good luck:)
While I am always up for a challenge, I vote you do NOT train for the half. How about starting to include running in your life again, but not going crazy with it…
Like most gals have said.. listen to your heart, go on a few dates and see how you feel. When I’m out of running I often don’t feel like going back but when I’m there I love it!!
Based on all you’ve posted about running, I think you should not do the half. I think you should start by adding running in slowly, to prevent injury and to see how you feel. The fact that you are even questioning this decision means to me that you have some doubt as to what you should do and what you want to do. And if you aren’t 100% in it with your heart – training for and running a half mary is not going to be a fun experience at all.
I was forced (injuries) to break up with running about 2 weeks ago. I really missed it at first. But now I have found a whole new love for less intense workouts. I have been walking, doing yoga and strength training and actually feel so much better. My opinion, is you do a little running but don’t focus on training for another half. Enjoy the run and don’t feel the pressure!
Gina~
I’d say walk/run it IF you would enjoy the experience but don’t put the knees through it if you really wouldn’t. I guess i say this because I have just developed “runners knee” from a few “spontaneous” 1/2’s and crossfit. Oh well..live and learn:)
B
Why the change in decision? You didn’t go into that. Have you noticed any changes since you stopped? Also, what kind of car are u getting? Please post.
because ehhh… my body needs to get used to some lower intensity exercise in order for something else to happen. that’s all i’m sayin 😉
maybe i’ll post my car this week when i get the keys. we shall see
Start with a trial basis and just see how it goes. Most important is having the desire/will to want to run then of course it should be enjoyable/fun. If it is not then maybe you should look for another activity. Good luck on your decision. =)
I think you should run for fun, wait it out a lil longer. Then train for an upcomng race.
If it’s calling your name I say do it. And I think the walk run style is perfect, no one said you have to run the whole thing!! 🙂
A race in Vegas would be amazing!!
I think you know whats best for you, and you should go with your gut.
I’ll actually me running this race too. I’m hoping to run the full, but might drop to the half depending on how training goes.
Eh. If you weren’t feeling it before, I don’t know if I’d jump into a half. Maybe start running a couple times a week and see how you feel. Shopping in Vegas sounds more exciting to me… but then again, I’m currently pregnant and anti-running 🙂
I am having the same thoughts, Gina! I have been trying to run with asthma for about 8 months now and have taken the month of June off to decide what to do. I have been following the Summer Shape Up as well as the 30 day Shred and some yoga but can’t resist trying to run again. I went back out last Friday and had a good run (for me) of 2 miles. It’s a tricky situation! I say give him another chance :). I can’t stay away either!
Considering I am injured right now for not listening to my body I would say to wait it out a little longer. Had you asked me this a month ago my answer would have been totally different. Perspective is a kick in the pants! Goodluck with whatever decision you make!
I’m running again after a few months off due to plantar. I also teach yoga and do some weight training. In my opinion, the combo of the three keeps everything balanced. If it feels good – then yes! If not, well, it’s not meant to be right now.
I say give it a shot, start running again, lightly and see how it feels. If it still feels good in a month or so register fir the race, if not don’t. Do the casual dating thing for a bit, see if the relationship can be salvaged. 🙂 whatever you do, i
I say sign up for it, but only to focus on hanging out with everyone. I feel like a lot of us put so much pressure on training and setting PRs that we lose the fun and escape that running can be. It should be fun, not hard and miserable. Good luck!
Ah it cut me off.. I was gonna say whatever you do I, and I am sure all your fans still think you are awesome.
I say sign up! You can start training, and if you decide you still aren’t into it, stick to your walk/run plan! No pressure, just keeping it fun!
I think if you don’t enjoy running, then it’s not really worth it. I mean, I think it’s great to set a goal and want to achieve it…but life is too short to be making yourself do things you don’t love!
Or…you could give running *another* shot and see if things change 😀
Ultimately, it’s up to you (well duhh) haha
You’ve got plenty of time before you really need to worry about the race. I’d say start running for fun, as often as you feel like it, even if it’s just once a week. If you get to the end of August and are still having fun and still want to train for the half? Then do it! If not? Then don’t worry about it. I agree with everyone else that running should be fun. A half marathon is way too much work if you’re not going to enjoy any of it.
If you’re still not 100% sure, then I would still wait. Sooner or later that running “itch” will hitcha. Then you’ll know for sure:)