Monday, March 21, 2011

calling all runners (and opinionated non-runners!)

Most of the time I use my blog to blah blah blah about myself but today I need some advice from all my wise readers as I build up my mad running skillz.

My plan is to run every other day and at least one of those days do the full 5k distance. (keep in mind that I'm supplementing this with two 90 minute Bikram yoga classes, a personal training session and a group training class)

I thought I would do that for a couple of months until I'm good and comfortable with the 5k distance then take it to the next level and join a running group.

Part of me thinks I'm putting off the joining a group part of this because I'm slow and scared but the other part of me thinks it's wise to get a little better at it.

Do I wait a while and build up some more skills and confidence or do I dive right in?

I'm so analytical these days....
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14 comments:

  1. HelenMarch 21, 2011 at 1:12 PM

    Build up your confidence. Because chances are when you join the running group you will find some very, very, VERY good runners in it. You need to be so self confident that you just rock your own pace and not get intimidated and slink off. My .02 ;-)

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  2. ShelleyMarch 21, 2011 at 2:07 PM

    Depends on what kind of running group - mine had all levels, even walkers. And the coaches were really great about running with the newbies...my take is to go for it, because it will force you to run, and you'll probably have a blast with the group. I sure did!

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  3. AnonymousMarch 21, 2011 at 2:25 PM

    This comment has been removed by the author.

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  4. Becca and famMarch 21, 2011 at 2:26 PM

    Hello!
    My name is Becca, I enjoy your blog. I am an avid runner. I would say probably build your confidence for the next few months then join a running group that has different levels of runners in it. Good luck and let us know what you decide to do!

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  5. Chubby McGeeMarch 21, 2011 at 2:39 PM

    I'm with Helen (and Becca) on this one. I'd build up some confidence so you don't feel like getting down on yourself if you have a bunch of good runners in your group. It'll be good for your psyche.

    I'm proud of you for doing this! I am! Keep it up, my little Muse!

    P.S. Why the heck did my "captia" have to be the word "flubby"? Geez....LOL!

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  6. TammyMarch 21, 2011 at 6:12 PM

    Go.
    For.
    IT!!!

    Jump right in....you'll love it and I know it. :)

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  7. KarenMarch 21, 2011 at 9:23 PM

    I am so proud of the changes you've already made in this short time we've been working together. Yes, I agree, take your time and develop a comfort level on your own terms. Your confidence in yourself as a whole is increasing by the day...and I LOVE being a part of it!!

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  8. VRaz60March 21, 2011 at 9:27 PM

    There is a great deal to be said for self confidence. When you get a bit more sure of your "skillz" dive right in, you will do great!

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  9. Darcy WintersMarch 22, 2011 at 12:05 PM

    I think it depends on the group. If it is for all levels - I would join now. If they are more advanced I would wait.

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  10. AshleyMarch 22, 2011 at 1:58 PM

    I tried to leave another comment, but my computer ate it, so if you get two comments from me, sorry.

    Most of the running clubs I looked into joining in Atlanta were too advanced for me. Even if the group says they have multiple pace groups, ask what they actually are. Typically, I found that the "slow" group was a 10 minute/mile pace, which is about 2 minutes faster than I could go on my best day.

    If you just want motivation to run regularly, not really training and coaching, you'd probably like finding a running buddy at a similar fitness level a lot better than joining a group. (You should ask your trainer if she has another client who is about on your level that she could recommend.) The running clubs I joined that I liked were those where I shared common interests with the other people in the club, and it was fun because of the social aspect, not the running aspect since I was always the slowest person.

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  11. paulawannacrackerMarch 22, 2011 at 7:32 PM

    Hi, my name is Paula. Just found your blog. I'd say jump right in there and find a group with different levels. I've been jogging by myself for the longest time trying to "build up confidence" and while that is great, I didn't start to improve until I started to jog with an experienced runner. She is sharing alot of tips that I find very helpful.

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  12. AnonymousMarch 23, 2011 at 10:39 AM

    Hi there!

    Love your blog! I do a lot of running and as we all know, the beginning stages are always the hardest. My opinion is to get with a group as soon as. The last thing you want to do is train at your own pace and then be very surprised when you actually do join a group and they are faster.

    Which almost makes the first few weeks or months worthless.

    I say get in there and push yourself harder and reap the rewards sooner!

    Thanks for sharing all of this on your blog. I will definitely be coming back.

    Michael

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  13. NemieMarch 23, 2011 at 6:36 PM

    I don't think that's going to be an issue, those runners started as a beginner, so Go for it! Rock them off..and maybe you can share with us after if what happened..

    Personal Training Chicago

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  14. tri like maryMarch 25, 2011 at 1:26 PM

    I just stumbled across your blog and am inspired by your journey. I'm a back of the pack triathlete and always felt intimidated and that I wasn't good enough to join certain groups or clubs. What I have found is that the running/fitness community is generally (there's always the chance one or two idiots are around) SO supportive. Find a learn to run group or clinic - if your city has a running store that's usually a good start - and GO for it!

    Good luck and I look forward to following you in your journey.

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