My BFF and I are running the Publix half marathon in Atlanta on March 17. Aside from being grossly out of shape and overweight, the most I’ve run in my entire life has been 3.1 miles (hellooooo 5k). The last time I ran that distance was over 2 months ago. So it really was no surprise that I got my ass handed to me when I started back up this past Monday. And by that I mean “Holy crap my legs are demolished”. You can always tell after I’ve run and its done a number on me, I walk like a cowboy.
One reason I’m tackling this half marathon and picking up running again is because I am still incredibly overweight. When I first started running earlier this year, it was really slow going. I was almost 230lbs and so out of shape all I did the first couple of weeks was walk. Gradually I worked up to a half mile, then a mile, then more. It is my personal belief that during this time I looked like the wheezing rhinoceros from the movie Jumanji (the one at the end of the herd).
Why yes, this guy
Anyway, before I took a running sabbatical, I had lost 50lbs and for once was very happy with myself. I still am, but know I can be even better. The second reason for doing the half marathon is to do something not everyone can say they have done, and to do it with my best friend. Even though I’m sure we will be towards the end of the pack, I know it will be a blast.
More updates will follow in the weeks to come. Since I’m still a beginner at this whole thing, it will be interesting to see where I am 3 months from now…
-A
It’s been an amazing journey to watch so far and I can’t wait to watch you accomplish your goals and punch the half-marathon in the face. It’s not going to be easy, but watching you go from “couch to 5k” has been awesome! Keep it up!