Running: Thursday, August 13

I think I might actually be a runner. If you had told me even four weeks ago that running six miles would be just another item on the list of "to do's" for the day I would have laughed at you. But yesterday, I was looking at my calendar and saw that 6 miles was on the schedule. I just kind of shrugged and worked it into my plans for the day. I decided to run on the treadmill because I hadn't had the best day up to that point, and the weather was threatening, so I didn't want to run away from home and feel like I couldn't get back.

The first two miles were fine, miles 3 and 4 were a struggle, and 5 and 6 were actually kind of fun (71 to go for the month...which I might need to recalculate based on my revised schedule). Yes, I said fun. And during those miles I was thinking, I think I might have time to fit in a couple miles tomorrow...even though I am running 8 on Saturday! What has happened to the old Lynn?!

Some thoughts about today's run:

• My foot hurts from something I did playing tennis yesterday. It didn't impede my running (actually feels like more of a bruise than a sprain), but I definitely need to work in some more cross-training, especially stuff that involves lateral movement.
• My back hurt less than usual. I am going to do some stretching and strengthening exercises tomorrow, but I was pleased that it felt as good as it did.
• Miles 3 and 4 really sucked and I don't know why. I didn't feel particularly fatigued or out of breath. When I stopped to take quick (~1 minute) breaks, I actually wanted to start running again right away. I am going to try be more aware to see if this happens a lot or today was just that kind of day.
• I know I'm repeating myself, but I felt like an actual runner today. My foot was actually really bothering me all day, but I still ran. Those 2 middle miles were awful but I kept going. This is a major milestone and worth a second (and possibly a third and fourth) mention.
  

I think that's all for today. I'm tired, but the good kind. I'll report tomorrow on my level of soreness. Two preventive ibuprofen and I'm off to bed.