Hi all! My name is Maria and I am a 24 years old about to tackle W2D2 tomorrow! Long story short, I am trying to find a new exercise outlet ever since I graduated college 1.5 years ago. I spent my entire life/college years dancing classical ballet and eventually branching out to other forms of dance in college (contemporary, jazz, hip hop). Dancing is a very different type of exercise than running as it is more so anaerobic than aerobic. Despite dabbling with volleyball and softball in middle school, I never trained seriously in sports (which can include intense conditioning in the form of long distance running.) I can't remember the last time I ran half a mile. I also have asthma and a form of arthritis that affects the bottom right side of my spine which makes me nervous about this program. However, I am in the middle of Week 2 and haven't had an issue with either of those conditions which makes me feel better! Testing the waters...
I read an introduction post on this forum from a girl who had a similar story to mine a few months ago. I can relate to what she said which was that she LOOKS like a runner and that people assume she runs all the time/has great cardio due to her naturally slimmer body. With running being even more popular lately, I have felt very insecure and embarrassed when I would have to constantly turn down people who would invite me to go on a run/sign up for a 5k-I knew I would have to quit within the first 1-2 minutes of running and that embarrassment alone was enough for me to always do what I could to avoid running. I am not using this program to become a dedicated runner/sign up for multiple races per year. I am simply looking to increase my cardio through running and know that if I am asked to run or want to simply exercise after work, I will have the confidence in knowing that I physically CAN do that and no longer dread it socially and physically. To gain endurance, have an outlet for exercise and match my INNER health to how I appear on the outside would be a great accomplishment for me! Oh, and maybe a 5k sometime this year:)
Whew...that was a lot and probably way too detailed! I look forward to staying in touch with other C25K'ers on here and hopefully can relate to someone who is dealing with a similar situation! Good luck everyone!
