My First Official Marathon Run in 2010

Yesterday’s Chase the Sun Neutrogena Run was my first official marathon this year.

We gathered at the starting line at 5:25 a.m. for the group warm up stretching exercise and got ready for the 5km gun start at 5:55, exactly just as the sun was rising in the east. It was a beautiful summer Sunday to chase the sun.

Approaching my 2^nd kilometer, I thought I would not last this one because it’s been a while since I’ve run long distance. In those instances that I’ve wanted to walk, I settle for a slow-brisk walk-stride as I approach and leave the water station. I was advised by my coach to keep my pace and not fully stop when the urge to do so comes, to prevent having cramps. I am 5km Runner 2516. My chip time registered a 35mins:48 seconds finish. Whew! Not bad for a start.

I have braved this one…my first one…alone. I thought my friend would be able to accompany me but he was racing in Nuvali for another event. In result, I only have a number of pictures on this event and was not able to enjoy the post race gathering. =( I guess what’s more important more than the pictures and the freebies is that I was able to gauge myself in an actual race. I’ve learn about stride as I run with other runners, my own pace, my endurance, about myself as a runner. I was able to have such confidence to approach other people to have my photo taken for documentation and talk about the run with other runners in line as we get our finisher’s kit. Marathon could also build one’s socialization skills.^^,

I have definitely enjoyed this one and am looking forward for the trail run next month! ^_^

On running and exercise

This is me after my jog today.

I stopped jogging in the last two weeks and have found myself gaining weight so fast (+4kls since then). Whew! This is what eating a lot and being sluggish could do to me. I woke up feeling heavy but I need to shake myself from that feeling if I really want to achieve my goal- which is being fit and healthy. People have different reasons why they exercise, from socialization to being able to able to wear and look good on that beautiful tiny dress (tight shirts and skinny for guys), to showing a good body in the beach or the pool, to building those muscles and eventually showing them off (wink! wink!).  There are those who engage for medical and health reasons, apart from it being a passion or obsession. (yes, there are people who’s obsessed and passionate about exercise in one form or another) I belong in this group of people. I do not want an unstable state of mind so apart from my medication, I have to help myself. Running is one of the things that helps me have a regular doze of serotonin in my system without relying on my maintenance medication, the result is a lower intake of those, more normal me. It is one of the therapy that I am engaged. I keep on it and I have lesser visits with my doctor, lower dosage of medicine results to a cut on their cost, too.

Running is the exercise I chose because it is not that costly. All you need is a pair of rubber shoes and a place to run. Working on it to be a habit requires one’s conscious effort with your goal in mind. Having a work-out buddy or a running mate is also good so as to have someone cheer you on and check with when you are lagging on your work out. It is also important that one inhales and exhales properly while doing the activity to achieve maximum oxygen intake. Warm-ups, correct posture and form during the execution (when you are stretching, lifting weights, running, swimming, etc. as it applies to all sports and exercise) helps avoid injury.  Eventually, one could decide to invest for the proper and comfortable work out outfit and gears.

 I have not done much investing yet on my running. I am blessed to have a park in front of the place I’m staying at with my very supportive aunt. Seeing it in the wee hours of the morning, with the dew and first sun rays of the day is already enough to get me in the mood for running. It has become my quiet time with my Maker, the time that I am also at peace with myself. Adi, my Adidas running shoes and trustworthy partner over the years, a comfy top and non-sweat- sticking shorts is already enough for me for now.

 

I am back on my running pace though it is as good as it was already a couple of weeks ago, it is not a good one yet. I am sure that if I keep running regularly I will be able to gain my pacing again. I just have to keep my mind on it, make smart food choices and be conscious on my food intake and eventually everything else will follow, including that balanced state of mind and ideal weight for my small frame. (04292010)