On the Eve of the Race

Back in January, I shared that I had begun training for my first 5k. I hadn't run competitively since high school following knee surgery. I hadn't run for fun since the end of college, start of my career. I hadn't kept up with a consistent workout routine since I took the AquaMoms class by Healthy Moms when pregnant (yes, that would be 3 years ago!).

Day 1

That said, I set about this goal after my good friend & blogging buddy, Allison, suggested we try it as a Fitness Challenge for our "other" blog home - Notes from a Mom in Chapel Hill. It was our New Years resolution. I started on January 2nd and, since then, have tracked a lot of miles (walking & running) using the Ease into 5k app on my iPhone. Dylan has been fantastic about accompanying me on most of these journeys strapped into his jogger stroller. (Watch out, he now sings "I workout" to LMFAO's song - so funny and how can I not be inspired especially when he tosses in "Mama workout"?). I've tweeted about my workouts and shared weekly updates here. I've bought a foam roller and am using it regularly (hello, sore calves and IT bands!). Basically, I've been doing my best to stay motivated and achieve this goal.

entrance to part of the greenway where I've trained

Early last week I was a bit nervous after being sidelined due to allergies. My head was a congested mess and, coupled with my asthma - running was not an option. I started back up slowly on Wednesday. Then Friday I managed my first full 3.1 mile run and officially finished the 8 week program in the app (yes, I took the "ease" part literally as I trained. Repeating days as needed). I had another great run on Sunday and did pretty good yesterday afternoon (my one recent run with the jogger stroller - wow that weight makes a difference!).

I'm feeling ready and excited for tomorrow. After 16 weeks of training, race day is finally here.

Linking up to Fitness Friday.