Next item on the "To-Do" List - another 5K

The last time I did a 5K was over 3 years ago. I ran the Susan Komen Race for the Cure in Raleigh. As mentioned some time ago in the post about the passing of Lista Yarbrough, I have been inspired to run again this year. Lista's passing really struck me - she was so young and so full of life - yet, breast cancer still took her from this world. Therefore, in June of this year, I will again be running the Race for the Cure. I will set up a team soon and start asking for donations - so beware!! Therefore, on June 14, my Dad's birthday, I will hit the pavement and hopefully make a decent showing at the race (decent showing meaning I run for 95% of the race and actually finish).

With that being said, it is time to train. Although I run a few times a week as it is, the most I normally run is about a mile and a half, two miles if I am feeling saucy. To make it the full 3.2 miles, I need to work my way up to doing so. So, starting yesterday, I am now on a "Couch to 5K" program. I made my own spreadsheet based off the recommended system at www.coolrunning.com. Even though the couch is not really my starting point, a regimented system that gives me a workout for the next 9 weeks will be very helpful in getting my endurance up where it needs to be. Yesterday's workout resulted in a full 2.5 mile workout, and whew - it kicked my butt a bit. As my loyal readers, I ask that you question me about this - ask if I am keeping up with it, etc. I really want to run this race and not make a fool out of myself (as Lauren and Meredith, both experienced runners, will probably do the race, too), so please encourage me!!

(Here's a screenshot of my running program - if you want the full spreadsheet, just let me know, and I will be happy to send it to you! You can also see a larger version of the spreadsheet by clicking on the picture above.)