Hello again all! I'm back!
I have been away from the blog for a while and though it was time to get back. I have been away because I couldn't really think of anything to write. Well, that is no longer an issue. I have started training to run a 5k (3.1 miles).
I have been thinking for some time now that I would like to start running. Now, this is in stark contrast to my lifelong resolution which was "You will only see me running if someone is chasing me!" I have wanted to find a way to get in better shape but couldn't find anything that I could really enjoy doing or consistently find the time to do. I can't join a gym because I just can't find the time to do it, especially when I live 30 minutes from the closest one. Seeing as how we have a treadmill in the house that doesn't get much use and how we live in a beautiful quiet neighborhood, I thought running would be the best option. Not only will it build my cardio but it will also work most of my body at once. I work with some great people and am able to get out and walk at least 1.3 miles nearly every day. We first started walking almost daily in October and I was out of breath after each walk. After a couple weeks of walking 5 days a week (weather permitting) I was no longer huffing and puffing after each walk and started feeling better overall.
I have also been listening to a podcast called WDWToday (greatest Disney podcast). Several of the hosts and guests on the show like to run and join several of the 
races put on by RunDisney (http://espnwwos.disney.go.com/sports/rundisney). These races consist of Marathons, Half-Marathons, 5ks, family races, kid’s races, etc... Listening to these guys (and gals) talk about their love for running these races as well as just being able to get out in the mornings to run around whichever resort they are staying at really makes me want to get out and run. Staying at any resort level other than the Value Resorts (Pop Century and All Stars) will provide beautiful grounds to run around in the mornings. As you all surely know I love anything and everything Disney. We have been the last two years and plan to return next year.
Our first year we stayed at the Caribbean Beach Resort (moderate|top right pic). The grounds of this resort would have been great for running. Last year we stayed at the All Star Sports Resort (Value|left pic). Again, this one would not have been ideal for running. It was too busy and not landscaped all that well, plus it was mostly just parking lots. Next year I am hoping that we can stay at the Port Orleans Riverside Resort (moderate|bottom right pic) which is just gorgeous.
Now let me get back to the races for a minute. Everyone that finishes one of these races gets a medal with a character on it that represents which race it is for. I am talking about medals with Mickey, Goofy, Donald, the Three Caballeros, etc... Races are run throughout the year but unfortunately at times that would make it difficult for me to attend one since Jenny is a teacher and Bree is in school (plus Austin starts Pre-K in the fall). Even though I may never get the chance to run one of the Disney races I can still set it as a goal and there are plenty of 5k’s and other races around here that I could run.
There are numerous benefits of running. It will get me in shape and keep me there which is something that I have wanted for a while now. I am not fat but I am not in the shape that I want to be in either. Have you ever seen people who run a lot? That is how I want to look; not too muscular but toned and solid. Running will allow me to get to that place. The last time I weighed myself at home I weighed in at 185 lbs. My goal is to be somewhere around 170. I know that running will not get me there completely but it will make me want to eat better. Not eating healthy causes one to be lethargic. That is not exactly conducive to exercising and I am set in my goal of running an entire 5k. Therefore, my goal of running a 5k will lead to healthier eating habits.
To make sure I stay on track I have downloaded an app to my IPhone called C25K. This is a free app that gives the user a set work out three times a week which should lead to the user being ready to run a 5k within 8 weeks. I have already completed the first two days of the program. I must admit, they were tough and the third day is the same so I should be able to not struggle as much with the third time. Days 1-3 consist of a 5 min warm-up walk then 60 sec of running and 90 sec of walking (alternated for 20 min) with a 5 min cool down walk. I can’t recall what week two has in store but I am sure it will be a little more challenging. I will keep this blog updated at least weekly with how I am doing with both the program and the eating.
Everyone wish me luck! See you in about a week.
- Corey
