Week 3 - It Could Happen to You

Every week of training so far I've learned something.  This week didn't slack on the knowledge building.  It did disappoint, however.  This week I learned about chafing.  I know, yuck.  The preconceived notion I had about chafing being only for overweight people was very, very wrong.  This crap hurts.


It also stays for days after the run.  I got a nice spot under my arm and on my rib cadge.  After this awesome experience I decided to do a little research about how to treat and prevent this from happening again.  


I found that washing the area then applying petroleum jelly is the best treatment option.  If this doesn't help medicated ointments can be subscribed by a doctor.


Prevention can be accomplished by staying dry during workouts and wearing well-fitting clothing made of synthetic fibers.  Cotton is the enemy.  Talcum and alum powders are a good to apply to areas that risk chafing.  The powders help remove moisture.


Hope you learned something from my unpleasantness.  You don't want none.

Week 2

In a nutshell, Week 2 sucked.  While I'm seeing a little increase in my physical progress, mentally I'm drained.  Running alone for 2 hours is tearfully boring.  It's also discouraging.  I've been running this same trail several times a week for too long.  I think it's time for a change in venue.  I'm starting to look up other routes in Rock Hill.  I'll see if that helps with my antsiness.  I really don't see how the speed walkers do it.  I find myself sprinting halfway into the run just so I can be done faster.


I'm also starting to get tired of giving up my afternoons for this.  I have to maintain so much discipline during this process.  I've always been told that running is 80% mental and 20% physical.  I completely believe it now if I've doubted it before.


This journey I've ventured on is turning into a character-shaping one.  Who would have thought it? (Ha!)  I'll admit, I'm not a marathon or half marathon runner.  This will be my first and last.  This process is painful, aggravating and draining.  I'll finish it because I'm stubborn, but I won't enjoy it.  


It sounds like I'm pretty down on running this thing.  Here is the recent upside I've found:  New cute running shoes and cute workout clothes for fall make me happy.  I'll be agonizing in a cute way.  TJ Maxx holla at ya girl.