Dear Blog-ary:
Here’s to all the brave and committed people who came out to Sarah’s “Can You Bear It?” running clinic yesterday morning at Beacon Hill Park! We all could’ve easily used any number of excuses to remain snuggled in our beds just a little longer. I gave myself (two) opportunities to press the snooze button after my alarm rang at 7:30am. I’m a big snoozer by nature. Who ever invented that button must have shared my sentiments.
Rather then stay in bed, I packed up my things and hugged my sleepy-eyed boys goodbye. Before our run, I took a rare opportunity to share a lovely breakfast with a wonderful bunch of women at JAM. Two poached eggs and a side of fruit. Both food and company gave me the boost I needed for the run ahead.
We met at 10 AM and wasted no time in getting acquainted with one and other. As we gathered together, beside the park, Sarah laid out the plan. We were encouraged to find a running pace that we were comfortable with and try to retain that pace throughout the run. It was a good reminder not to push too hard on the first lap and burn out half way through.
Our run lasted about 30 minutes, and it felt pretty good. I noticed a bit of a stitch in my side at first, but it didn’t create too much of a problem for me. I tend to over think my breathing, so I just tried to relax as much as I could and enjoy the run. Nothing epic or monumental occurred, and I was happy at the end if it. The last lap was by far the toughest and I was pushing myself hard to keep up my pace for the final meters.
A great “first” run in our Sunday series leading up to November’s “Bear Mountain 10K”. But, despite a great start, I can’t say that our final goal looks any less daunting. I’m just as nervous and unsure of my own ability as I was before yesterday’s run. I’m hoping that in the weeks ahead I will not only build on my strength and endurance, but also my confidence, as I prepare for the challenge ahead . . . Kirsten Wolf
Don’t worry Kirsten, we’ll ensure we work on mental prep too – which is so key in preparing for a race! As well, the more time you spend training with the group the more confident you’ll become in your ability! I KNOW you can do the Bear Mountain 10K! And, I’ll be there to cheer you on!