So I have some info for you. I went to a runner’s clinic on Thurs. and despite the earthquake sending me into panic mode, I did pick up a few things.

One of the coaches talking said he has been running for like 40 years and he hates it. Hates it. Says he has always had to trick himself just to get started and then plays other tricks along the way to keep going. For instance he tells himself he is going on a walk, NOT a run. He gets ready like he is walking. Somewhere along the way he picks up the pace a little and he is eventually running. Looks like most of us have to play mind games to get and keep going, doesn’t it?

He also said something that I like a lot. For your long runs, listen to your body, listen, listen, listen! If you are tired you are doing something wrong and mostly that is probably too much too fast.

He said time is more important than distance. If your goal is a half and you want to run it in 2:30 then start by hiking for 2:30 once a week (long days). Just get your body used to being out there and ‘on’ for that long. Slowly add in the running in pieces. I LOVE that. I have always done the opposite. Push myself to run the miles and crap out.

So with this new outlook I went for a 2 hour hike yesterday. I felt so motivated and not like I had wasted time at all. LOVE it!

Also, they said 30 mins 4 x a week will maintain your fitness for a long time. I can totally do that!! Yipee I can do that. I can tell myself to do that EASY. I think.