Beginning running -- got tips?

[elle simple]

So I went running today for the first time in like 8 years(?!) -- mainly b/c I forgot my ID and couldnt get into the gym, so I went to the track instead -- I wont lie, it was HARD.

I made like half a mile (no laughing please :dry: ) but it felt good! And in my defence, the track was HOT in the blazing afternoon sun, and my shoes were old and not that springy. But I liked it and want to do better

What are some good tips for a beginner like me?

And, how's this look for a 8-week schedule? I can run for more than 1 minute at a time, should I start higher or just ease on in?

* Week 1 Run one min, walk 90 seconds. Repeat eight times. Do three times a week.
* Week 2 Run two mins, walk one min. Repeat seven times. Do three times a week.
* Week 3 Run three mins walk one mins. Repeat six times. Do three times a week.
* Week 4 Run five mins, walk two mins. Repeat four times. Do three times a week.
* Week 5 Run eight mins, walk two mins. Repeat three times. Do three times a week.
* Week 6 Run 12 mins, walk one min. Repeat three times. Do three times a week.
* Week 7 Run 15 mins, walk one min, Run fifteen mins. Do three times a week
* Week 8 Run 30 mins continuously.

[Addicted_2_Me]

That looks like a good schedule. Just make sure you drink a lot of fluids and carry at least 5 pounds pof extra weight with you. It helps cut down weight faster.

[elle simple]

carry at least 5 pounds pof extra weight with you. It helps cut down weight faster.


??? is that for real?

I do backpacking/hiking (carrying 20-30 lbs on uneven terrain) so packing extra weight makes sense in that compartment of my mind, but, but, but.... I dont see anyone out jogging w/a backpack on? Plus, I dont have the strongest joints, so I'm looking to avoid unnecessary strain.

[Addicted_2_Me]

Not a back pack in actuality. But something like a stick. Or you could put on ankle weights. Lol. That's what I do.

[offthabooks]

I made like half a mile
haha

I'm kidding *smiles*

that looks like a good plan...you should also check out this couch to 5k training plan...http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml
running takes alot out of you, so it's no surprise you were tired. I would def recommend investing in some decent running shoes- really they are the only equipment you use so it's very important they feel good on your feet. I'd also recommend trying some different terrain- treadmill, street, track, dirt....see what feels best for you. besides that, it's just one foot in front of the other....

[AnotherGirl]

Plus, I dont have the strongest joints, so I'm looking to avoid unnecessary strain.
there's this dude that works out at my gym...he plays for the Houston Texans (will remain nameless... so don't ask :p ) anyways he always in the pool in the lane next to me .... "running" laps back and forth up and down. he's a real built dude too.. great bod. i assume he does it cos it's great LOW IMPACT resistance training. you should try that. :yes:

[swordsman123]

Make sure you have a good pair of sneakers and make you tie them tightly. I have two bad blisters on my big toe and they are very painful, and now I cant run.

[elle simple]

So I went again today, this time on that 1 min run/ 90 sec walk deal and I must say, I certainly dont need to jump ahead in the pgm haha

Was actually kind of amused/embarrassed at how much I could feel the effects of that first run on my body the next day. And I thought I was at least marginally in shape! lol Is the elliptical a waste of time?? sheeesh

I hear what you all are saying about shoes, I think getting a good pair will have to be my wknd mission. I tried a differnt pair today, they got more bounce to em (trailrunning type water shoes) but have always given me blister problems and today rubbed the back of my ankle raw. Worthless POS gear grumble grumble...

I mos def wont be running much longer on the track, mainly cuz of the hours it's open are in the HOTTEST part of the day. I'm getting kinda tan out there. Looking forward to getting into a schedule of evening or maybe morning runs.

Thanks for the link OTB (very inspiring!)... I read that running on concrete (i.e. sidewalk) is kinda bad, so I'll be scouting around for parks and stuff near my house that might be better, tho I suppose with the short distances I"m going, it's not toooo terrible, at least for now. Will for sure get on the treadmill when I build up enough stamina not to feel like too much of a bum hah

AG I'll think about some water cardio/aerobics type deal down the line -- sounds better than a hot track that's for sure -- I've heard great things about this type of exercise.

Thanks all.... I'm gonna keep going! more tips welcome....

[Shaolin Temple]

Listen here. You do not need to add weight. As a matter of fact, do not. If you are going to run seriously, you have to take care of your joints. Running is a weight-bearing cardio exercise and many regular joggers get tendinitis commonly known has runners knees. It comes from wear and tear.

I'll post my running regimen later.

[elle simple]

Listen here. You do not need to add weight. As a matter of fact, do not. If you are going to run seriously, you have to take care of your joints. Running is a weight-bearing cardio exercise and many regular joggers get tendinitis commonly known has runners knees. It comes from wear and tear.

I'll post my running regimen later.

I'm listening there!

Sounds like the voice of reason.

And even tho I already know I'm not going to get like OffThaBooks-type serious, I wanna take care b/c I am prone to sprained ankles and have a twinge in my knee from when I tried snowboarding (stupidest.sport.EVER)

looking fwd to hearing more~

[Illiptical360]

So I went running today for the first time in like 8 years(?!) -- mainly b/c I forgot my ID and couldnt get into the gym, so I went to the track instead -- I wont lie, it was HARD.
I made like half a mile (no laughing please :dry: ) but it felt good! And in my defence, the track was HOT in the blazing afternoon sun, and my shoes were old and not that springy. But I liked it and want to do better
What are some good tips for a beginner like me?
And, how's this look for a 8-week schedule? I can run for more than 1 minute at a time, should I start higher or just ease on in?
* Week 1 Run one min, walk 90 seconds. Repeat eight times. Do three times a week.
* Week 2 Run two mins, walk one min. Repeat seven times. Do three times a week.
* Week 3 Run three mins walk one mins. Repeat six times. Do three times a week.
* Week 4 Run five mins, walk two mins. Repeat four times. Do three times a week.
* Week 5 Run eight mins, walk two mins. Repeat three times. Do three times a week.
* Week 6 Run 12 mins, walk one min. Repeat three times. Do three times a week.
* Week 7 Run 15 mins, walk one min, Run fifteen mins. Do three times a week
* Week 8 Run 30 mins continuously.

when you say run? what do you mean? sprint or jog???? this **** is terrible if its joggin, sorry

[detroitwalt]

when you say run? what do you mean? sprint or jog???? this **** is terrible if its joggin, sorry


if she was to sprint on that pgm, then she would basically be doin HIIT. not that its a bad thing but if she's just getting back into running she may not want to get into something so intenese, i see nothing wrong with jogging using that routine.

[detroitwalt]

haha
I'm kidding *smiles*
that looks like a good plan...you should also check out this couch to 5k training plan...http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml
running takes alot out of you, so it's no surprise you were tired. I would def recommend investing in some decent running shoes- really they are the only equipment you use so it's very important they feel good on your feet. I'd also recommend trying some different terrain- treadmill, street, track, dirt....see what feels best for you. besides that, it's just one foot in front of the other....

the link has been bookmarked and i'll be starting it tomorrow. thanks books

[elle simple]

when you say run? what do you mean? sprint or jog???? this **** is terrible if its joggin, sorry
moreso jogging for now. Just saying something is 'terrible' is not really helpful you know. That's a routine off a jogging site soooooo... what do you think you know that makes it 'terrible' ? :huh:



Yesterday I bought these Asics Gel-Enduro (http://www.asicsamerica.com/product.asp?PRODUCT_ID=240005583&TITLE_CATEGORY_ID=250001185&BACK_CATEGORY_ID=250001180#companions) (in vapor/dark grey/lapis) and some insoles from Footlocker -- $60-some w/the Friends and Family coupon. Not the greatest quality I know; better than what I had tho. When I make it up to 30 non-stop minutes, I'll reward myself with a new pair.

I'm not shopping at Footlocker again tho, will go to a real running store. Clerks were horrrrrible. Rude, unprofessional, not knowledgable... worthless.

But I did go running--er, I mean, jogging in the new shoes on Saturday eve. and it felt good to me. My body is adjusting so less aches etc. woop.

[2gunsup]

I've started a month ago and I recommend going to a running specialty store, fuk footlocker, you can get the RSS recommends you anywhere else after getting their advice.

also for the legs, make sure you stretch for at least 5 to 10 minutes before you start to warm up your muscles and after you finish stretch again.

This has helped me, my legs use to kill me when I first started and it was because I wasn't stretching.

It's also recommended to stretch 10 minutes into your walk. I can get by without it but it might work for you.

[elle simple]

^ I do stretch before but today at least, forgot about doing it after, thx for the reminder.

I dont know what is happening to me, I actually got out of bed at 6:30 a.m. to jog!? Am thinking that was some kind of fitness-anomaly, but hey, could happen again?? felt damn good.

[2gunsup]

I'd do that if I didn't have to leave the house at 7:30am, and theres no way im waking up at 5am =\ wish i could do my workouts in the morning though

[Shaolin Temple]

Warm up
The aim of a proper warm-up is to prepare your body for the exertion to come. Obviously, you should be running at a lower speed than the actual running phase, and you may even want to include some stretching.
This could last for 5-10 minutes.

Warming up is also important prior to speed training as a way of priming the muscles. Your body prepares gradually for the actual training session, and your blood circulation will carry more oxygen to the muscles.

Your heart rate should rise to the training level at the end of a warm-up and actual training can then begin. Some recovery sessions may be run at warm-up speed.

Exercise in Target Zone
Monitor the intensity level you are at while training to make sure the session is beneficial. Your heart rate should rise towards the end of a session and not the other way around. Keep in mind that increasing speed is easy, but you should learn the basics about the way your heart rate reacts at different running speeds first.

A running session can include for example a 30-minute even-paced run at 65-75% of maximal heart rate, or intervals of 5x3 minutes at 75-85%, alternating with recovery to bring your heart rate down to 60% before the next interval.

Cool Down
The purpose of a cool-down is to slowly bring the heart rate back to the level it was prior to the exercise. This is especially important after strenuous activity, which has produced lactic acid. Lactic acid is easily eliminated from the system during slow-paced running. A cool-down typically lasts for 5-10 minutes depending on the hardness of the training session. The harder you train, the longer the cool-down should take.

For optimal fitness results, train within your target heart rate limits, even if you are able to push yourself beyond them most of the time. Improving your physical condition by running is easy, but it is important to pace your development. Avoid monotony by training in a varied fashion.

---------

I got the above from my exercise files and i thought it would be necessary to share. I believe the source is either Adidas, Asics or Polar. Regardless, one major thing overlooked in this thread is HEART RATE. You need to monitor your heart rate. Ive point this out probably 4 or 5 times in the fitness forum and I do not mind sharing it again. Purchase a heart rate monitor, even a basic one. Whatever you do, purchase a Polar HRM. I have an F6 (Men's version of course), but they have a females version as well. this one is good because the transmission is coded, meaning the signal is modulated with a carrier wave minimizing the chance of cross-talk with other people.

Whether you want to lose weight, lower cholesterol, burn body fat, train for competition, or just stay healthy, a heart rate monitor allows you to exercise at the precise heart rate to achieve your personal goals.

Heart rate monitors are ECG accurate. Without a heart rate monitor, taking your pulse requires stopping your exercise momentarily and reading your pulse for 6 to 15 seconds. Studies show that manual pulse taking has an average error of 17 beats per minute. Most people were exercising harder than they thought. Over exertion puts you at a higher risk and can discourage you from continuing your exercise program. Also you must stop your routine while you wait at least 15 seconds to take your pulse. With a Heart Monitor you get continuous feedback about your workout. The real-time technology and accuracy will greatly improve your workout.

Every individual has a specific heart rate training zone for weight loss, lowering cholesterol or blood pressure, getting in peak condition etc. A heart rate monitor lets you exercise in the optimum heart rate zones to achieve your personal goals. Best results are achieved by training in a combination of training zones every exercise session.

-------
CHART (http://www.pro-am.com.au/Training/Images/PolarChart.gif)

elle - what is you short-term and moderate-term goals (in terms of cardiovascular fitness)?

[elle simple]

^ I need to study that. I'm bad at math & heart rate seems like a word problem :blush: but I'll read again, thank you!

As for goals, short term (8 weeks) is to be able to run 30 minutes straight, like the Couch to 5K plan OTB mentioned. After that, I'm not trying to go crazy, I just want that base layer of fitness, maybe maintain around jogging 10/mi per week? I kinda have to see how into it I am once I get there I guess.

Another Q: I'd like to start doing some light strngth training on the weight machines, but if I run MWF and do weights TR, what type of exercises should I be doing that wont get me too tired/sore to run the next day?

[Shaolin Temple]

^ I need to study that. I'm bad at math & heart rate seems like a word problem :blush: but I'll read again, thank you!

Don't look at it too deep. It's real simple

50%-60% of MHR - Light cardio exercise
60%-70% of MHR - Moderate intensity - Good for fat burning
70%-80% of MHR - Aerobic - great for fat burning
80%-90% of MHR - Anerobic - HIIT zone
90%-100% of MHR - Danger Zone (people have passed out and some cases died running before - not knowing their heart was in danger)


As for goals, short term (8 weeks) is to be able to run 30 minutes straight, like the Couch to 5K plan OTB mentioned. After that, I'm not trying to go crazy, I just want that base layer of fitness, maybe maintain around jogging 10/mi per week? I kinda have to see how into it I am once I get there I guess.

I didn't go through that plan, but as a piece of advice as you are going through the cardio fitness plan you choose, just keep in mind that do not fear changing course and make modifications as you go along and as you learn what works best for you. I do it fairly often, not all the time, because structure and sticking with some plan is obviously very important in fitness.

Another Q: I'd like to start doing some light strngth training on the weight machines, but if I run MWF and do weights TR, what type of exercises should I be doing that wont get me too tired/sore to run the next day?

Yeah, you can also run and lift on the same day. I did that quite a lot, especially when i went on cutting phases - Just make sure that you have at least 7 hours in between cardio and lifting workouts. Its best to run in the morning before breakfast, and later lift 60 minutes after a decent sized meal. The main reason to run prior to your breakfast is that you glycogen levels are low and after it becomes depleted you burn fat, which is the 2nd source or energy the body seeks. I do not know if that is a major goal of yours, but thought you should know. It is a goal for many.

I don't know if you are lifting but sooner or later your body will recover much faster and the soreness will not become a problem at all.

I can give you a sample workout. It's hard for me to think of one since I do not know your fitness level or what workouts favor growth and improvement.

Monday (Chest,Shoulder,Biceps)

Stability Ball Crunches
Dumbbell Chest Press
DB Chest Press
DB Shoulder Press (seated or standing)
DB Curls
DB Concentration Curls (bench or ball)

Tuesday - Cardio day

Wednesday - (Legs)

DB lunges (variation: Diagonal lunges or backward lunges)
Front Squat DBs basically rest on your shoulders
Straight Leg Deadlifts with light DBs (great for the hamstrings)
Leg Extensions (Machine)
Leg Curls (Machine)

Thursday - (Cardio Day)

Friday - (Back,Triceps)
Pull-Downs (grip Shoulder width apart)
Close-grip cable row
Back extensions (weighted or unweighted)
DB Kickbacks
Push-downs

[whoa4]

I'm about to start back running too (which I hate), I just might use this routine

[elle simple]

Shaolin, I'm a slow learner w/stuff like this lol. Thank you for the info... sorry if you posted this already, but how do you find your Maximum Heart Rate?

thx for posting the exercises too. I'm only using weight machines now, not dumbells or any other props. Am actually planning on strength training 2 days a week, and I only have about 40 minutes each day. How would you modify the schedule you posted to reflect that?? I would greatly appreciate it, if you have the time...?

The Couch to 5K Plan is very similar to the one I pasted into my first post.

And yea I am trying to lose some weight too, forgot about that heh. I dont stress on the numbers, but think I could be 10 lbs lighter if I tried. I'd also like to see some cut abs. But just being fit is the main thing for me.


Today I'm tired, dont know if I can find the energy to run, but maybe can double up tomorrow, jog in the a.m. and weights after work maybe. hmmm... neway... thanks again for the info, it's encouraging~

[thenewyorkgiant]

http://uncommonbody.blogspot.com/2006/10/top-7-things-to-know-to-begin-running.html

I had this bookmarked. Hope you can find it useful... I've yet to really give it a look... :huh:

[elle simple]

http://uncommonbody.blogspot.com/2006/10/top-7-things-to-know-to-begin-running.html
I had this bookmarked. Hope you can find it useful... I've yet to really give it a look... :huh:

I finally peeped... a great overview, thank you! :thumbsup:


running log update

So I'm into week 5 of a modified version of the Couch to 5 K plan mentioned before... running 8 minutes & walking 2 - 1.5 minutes, 3 times

I'm having a really hard time scheduling gym days AND running, so I mainly skip the gym (not to mention the one treadmill is broken :dry:)... but I'm not beating myself up too much b/c the running is so effective and I'm still in the process of getting conditioned. I figure once I hit ~30 minutes of running w/o a break and do that 3-4 times a week, I'll try and work in the weight training too. idk...

today is gonna hurt cuz I was a bum all weekend, I'm slightly dreading it. But it WILL HAPPEN.

[whoisanita]

AH, so my chunky butt decided to sign up for a half-marathon that is scheduled for January 28 as in incentive to do cardio (which I hate, but I'm addicted to lifting and this alone is no good). I've already gotten sponsored and paid for, so now I have more pressure to complete it.

All the resources I find about doing mini marathons are 16 week or longer programs and this marathon is a month and a half away so I don't have that long! This one is going downhill for about 13.1 miles (whereas, the most I did before was 5k on soft dirt trail)...anyone have any experience with downhills on pavement or marathon training period that could answer some questions for me?

[Shaolin Temple]

AH, so my chunky butt decided to sign up for a half-marathon that is scheduled for January 28 as in incentive to do cardio (which I hate, but I'm addicted to lifting and this alone is no good). I've already gotten sponsored and paid for, so now I have more pressure to complete it.
All the resources I find about doing mini marathons are 16 week or longer programs and this marathon is a month and a half away so I don't have that long! This one is going downhill for about 13.1 miles (whereas, the most I did before was 5k on soft dirt trail)...anyone have any experience with downhills on pavement or marathon training period that could answer some questions for me?

I would actually like to hear about experienced downhill runners. Unfortunately, I live in NYC, there are no hills whatsoever. Never had to worry about them.

Good Luck!

Who is that in your avi btw?

[whoisanita]

I would actually like to hear about experienced downhill runners. Unfortunately, I live in NYC, there are no hills whatsoever. Never had to worry about them.

Good Luck!

Who is that in your avi btw?

Ah, central Texas is in an area called "Hill Country". I can't find good info on proper stride in downhill running and some of the hills are steep.

It's this run : http://www.runtex.com/web/2-1186.asp

I'm reading The Non-Runner's Marathon Trainer, which is based on the highly successful marathon class offered by the University of Northern Iowa where in the last 10 years, only 1 person has not been able to complete the marathon. It's supposed to be one of the best preparation books out there, but the more I read, the more I realize I won't be ready in time for this mini marathon.

It's me in the avi smiling rather gross like.

[Red X]

i used to love running. now i can't find the time.

[Shaolin Temple]

Ah, central Texas is in an area called "Hill Country". I can't find good info on proper stride in downhill running and some of the hills are steep.
It's this run : http://www.runtex.com/web/2-1186.asp
I'm reading The Non-Runner's Marathon Trainer, which is based on the highly successful marathon class offered by the University of Northern Iowa where in the last 10 years, only 1 person has not been able to complete the marathon. It's supposed to be one of the best preparation books out there, but the more I read, the more I realize I won't be ready in time for this mini marathon.
It's me in the avi smiling rather gross like.

I'll check out that link. Nice pic :)

[makavalli]

that program says to run 3-4 times a week but im not a beginning runner just havent did it since the summer and i would do 2-3 miles 4 days a week.


is it a good idea for me to try and do a mile or 2 a day for 5 days a week and rest on the weekends since my goal now is to lose body fat?

[elle simple]

well I been avoiding this post since I fell off for 10 days... lots of reasons for this, some legit, some just excuses; probably the biggest mistake I made was deviating from the plan, I tried to move ahead before I was ready. But I fell back on yesterday so I feel pretty good; even tho 1 day isnt exactly a trend LoL.

I was also having some knee pain (not while running, but after, and only while going up or down stairs). I cannot imagine 13+ miles downhill!! I think part of my knee pain came from doing a (very) gradual hill, running on sidewalks and perhaps, my body not being physically ready for the incline/decline.

I was always trying to step lightly on the downhill, didnt go as fast as I could, but still the pain was there after I finished. Would be very interested in more info on how to do it right. I changed my route to be more flat (even tho I actually like the hills) and run in the street when I can b/c of the softer asphalt and the fact I dont have to bounce up & down curbs as much.

So I did a "reset" on week 5 and will probably spend a week or two with it before moving on to week 6.

Anita you might wanna holler @ OffThaBooks for more of that long-distance info... she had a post in here about serious running game... I cant find it tho. Good luck with the half marathon!! You're such an inspiration!

[2gunsup]

i fell off for months, back at it for the new year, and im gonna have a kid in late june early july, got to look my best for the kid, liqa is a powerful drug =*(

[Johnny Cage]

I suggest.....

Week # 1:

Run quarter mile, walk quarter mile, run quarter mile, walk quarter mile

Week # 2:

Run quarter mile, walk quarter mile, run quarter mile, walk quarter mile, run quarter mile, walk quarter mile, run quarter mile, walk quarter mile

Week # 3:

Run half mile, walk quarter mile, run half mile, walk quarter mile

Week # 4:

Run half mile, walk quarter mile, run half mile, walk quarter mile, run half mile, walk quarter mile

Week # 5:

Run 3/4 mile, walk quarter mile, run 3/4 mile, walk quarter mile

Week # 6:

Run 1 mile, walk quarter mile, run half mile, walk quarter mile

Week # You're experienced as ****:

Run til you can't run no more, walk quarter mile, run again till you can't run no more, walk quarter mile

:yes: ^

[elle simple]

i fell off for months, back at it for the new year, and im gonna have a kid in late june early july, got to look my best for the kid, liqa is a powerful drug =*(

aw... you! you were one of my inspirations! but I feel you lol


I'm still working at run 10 min./ walk 1, times 3, am doing it regularly (3x/wk) and if I may say, my legs look great... if I keep it up, I'm going to start buying shorter skirts lol

But, my knee is still acting foolish. It does not hurt WHILE I run, but the next day or two I can really feel it. It's kinda 'crunchy' when I bend it sometimes... not cracking but not smooth if that makes sense. I havent even worn heels all week b/c that seems to make it worse.

So my question is... push through this or find a lower impact cardio asap? Is there a chance this is just me adjusting and it will go away?? Cuz the body can take a lot, right? I mean, it's not likely I'll do major permanent damage running just this little bit right? I really want to make my 30minute/5K goal.

meh.

we're talking about something similar @ Johnny Cage... am walking way less tho, I dont want my heart rate to go too far down in between running

and

:ucku: @ whoever 1-starred this :hmm:

[2gunsup]

^ I do stretch before but today at least, forgot about doing it after, thx for the reminder.

I dont know what is happening to me, I actually got out of bed at 6:30 a.m. to jog!? Am thinking that was some kind of fitness-anomaly, but hey, could happen again?? felt damn good.

I'd do that if I didn't have to leave the house at 7:30am, and theres no way im waking up at 5am =\ wish i could do my workouts in the morning though

i woke up at 5am yesterday morning and did a 2.2 mile walk.. never thought i had it in me to do that

aw... you! you were one of my inspirations! but I feel you lol


I'm still working at run 10 min./ walk 1, times 3, am doing it regularly (3x/wk) and if I may say, my legs look great... if I keep it up, I'm going to start buying shorter skirts lol

But, my knee is still acting foolish. It does not hurt WHILE I run, but the next day or two I can really feel it. It's kinda 'crunchy' when I bend it sometimes... not cracking but not smooth if that makes sense. I havent even worn heels all week b/c that seems to make it worse.

So my question is... push through this or find a lower impact cardio asap? Is there a chance this is just me adjusting and it will go away?? Cuz the body can take a lot, right? I mean, it's not likely I'll do major permanent damage running just this little bit right? I really want to make my 30minute/5K goal.

meh.

we're talking about something similar @ Johnny Cage... am walking way less tho, I dont want my heart rate to go too far down in between running

and

:ucku: whoever 1-starred this :hmm:

yeah that liqa had got a hold of me again, havent drank since new years though so im doing good so far

ill have to catch up the progress u been makin now

u still using sparkpeople?

[elle simple]

i woke up at 5am yesterday morning and did a 2.2 mile walk.. never thought i had it in me to do that
yeah that liqa had got a hold of me again, havent drank since new years though so im doing good so far
ill have to catch up the progress u been makin now
u still using sparkpeople?


the holidays were rough for me too... that's why I'm stuck around week 5 some three months into an 8-week plan LoL

sparkpeople... not so much... same deal too... I didnt care to do the math to count the calories in all the delishious holidays foods I was cramming into my face. Sometimes I still use the counter that tells you how much calories you burned doing a specific exercise tho. I might have to get back into it tho. You still go on there?

[2gunsup]

just started out again, made new username and everything, wanted a fresh start

[highgrade]

dont run on sidewalk/street/concrete - it will kill ur knees when u turn 40

buy high quality shoes, no need to splurge on the 200 dollar NB's , but dont go in the shoes u wear around town