5k Training Day 3 and No More Trouble Zones

My goal for yesterday was to go for 1.5 miles, and run as much of it as I could. I still find that I have trouble running that distance without walking, so I took my time and did the best I could. I was frustrated at first, but felt empowered when I realized that the 1.5 mile lap around my local park went by much faster than it did on Day 2 or Day 1. Progress! I think my problem is I expect too much too soon. I remember what it was to be relatively fit and not struggle as much, and I keep expecting to get that version of myself back every time I work out. But I know it'll take a lot longer than one week to do that.

Today was a rest day, but on my off days I try to do some resistance training to strengthen my legs and give my arms some definition. Today that came in the form of one of my favorite DVDs, Jillian Michaels' No More Trouble Zones.

This workout is killer. Jillan's more famous DVDs, like 30 Day Shred and Ripped in 30, are popular partly because they require quick bursts of energy, and the workout is done in 25-30 minutes. This is a little bit different. It's 40 minutes, which means she has 20 extra minutes to kick your ass. And boy does she ever! You wouldn't think using 3lb. dumbbells would hurt so good, but if you're out of shape like me,  you really feel the burn. 

I can't make it through the whole DVD just yet. Today I did one round of every circuit (I believe there are 6 or 7) But didn't repeat the circuits like they do in the video. That way I could get through all the exercises at least once. By the end, I was drenched in sweat and exhausted. But I felt accomplished knowing I had at least put in the effort and could do the majority of the moves. This workout is GREAT for cross training and my legs definitely feel a little bit stronger now than they did when I wasn't doing this. No more sore calves when I run! :)

Speaking of running, tomorrow I have to run for 45 minutes instead of the usual 25. This means two laps around the park. I'm VERY nervous, because this will probably be the day I actually cover a 5k distance and get to see what that's like. It's so small to other people, but it feels like a marathon to me. I have to keep reminding myself to slow down, breathe, and not try to sprint through the whole thing. I know I'll get better as time goes on if I take my time, even if the impatient side of me is screaming for me to do differently. Time to plug in and stay the course!