On the goading of my cousin J, I’m going to attempt to run a 1/2 marathon in October.
Now long-time readers of the blog will know I’ve had a standing New Year’s Resolution to run in a 10k that year, which never seems to come to fruition.
This time, however, is different. Without going into much detail, a number of factors have arisen that are making me extra motivated to do this. I might sign up for a spring/summer 10k just to wet my proverbial running whistle. My diet is going to evolve into something quite different than it is right now – focusing on optimum fitness and nutrition – and my workout regime is going to become more planned and focused between running, cross-training and strength-training.
I know it sounds drastic, but when faced with proper motivation, I’m unstoppable.
As an added benefit, I’ll finally drop this weight that I’ve been struggling with this past year.
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The change in diet can also be attributed to watching the documentary Food, Inc. two weeks ago. An eye-opener for sure, and it’s changing my purchasing habits as a result.
Go watch it if you haven’t already!
February 15, 2010 at 3:58 pm
Man, really? I was thoroughly unimpressed with Food, Inc. Have you read Fast Food Nation?
February 15, 2010 at 4:03 pm
Well, what opened my eyes the most was the “how meat is produced” today. I forget that it’s not from small farms like the one I grew up on (raising hogs, chickens and cows), but giant corporations who don’t care. Which is why I’m moving to organic meats.
The whole “corn permeating everything” is disconcerting too. Makes me wonder if that’s why so many people are developing allergies now.
I’ve always meant to read Fast Food Nation, but never got around to it – I suppose the information is out of date by now? Is it still worth a read?
February 15, 2010 at 4:47 pm
What’s really kicked me in the ass this year re: diet (and hydration) is how I feel during and after workouts. When I’m eating healthy stuff, the workouts feel easier and I’m less sore. When I eat like crap, I struggle more and soreness lasts 2-3 days instead of 1-2.
I know you’ve got a history of foot injuries — have you considered a pair of “pseudo-shoes” that would allow you to run almost-barefoot?
See: http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2009/07/barefoot/
February 16, 2010 at 11:10 pm
I love the half-marathon distance. It’s possible to do well without giving up every other sporting interest. Good luck!
February 17, 2010 at 9:08 am
@Justin: Good to know! It figures I’m having some nagging issues with my right calf/Achilles so I’ve been lax in running since Saturday. But, I have new shoes on the way, so that should make a huge difference.