Signed up for my first race

[Jbutler]

And it just happens to not be a typical 5k. It's called the tough mountain challenge, it's a 5k race, but it is more of a run/obstacle course! (check it out www.toughmountain.com). I had wanted to do it two years ago when they did the first one but I was horribly out of shape and focused on finishing school, then the next year I was still horribly out of shape, but this year it just so happens that I'll be finishing the program the week before the race.

I do have to say that signing up for the race has given me a ton of motivation, something to strive for. I've found that week 8 of the program was almost boring (not because it was easy, but because it was all running and my pace is very slow and I didn't have the motivation).

Today I ran a lot more than I should have (I went beyond the program), I was curious as to whether I'd be able to even run a 5k since most of my workouts have been about 2 miles. Im proud to say that I ran a 5k in 38:59, which is a fairly slow pace, but still not as bad as I expected. I'm not an advocate for skipping ahead in the program, but after doing the first 8 weeks I feel ready to push myself.

Next week begins week 9!

[DebL66]

I don't think running 5k in under 40 min when 8 weeks ago you couldn't have done it is bad at all. My first 5K is Sept. 9 and I will be happy to finish it in under 40. I will just be happy to finish! Right now I am running an average of a 10 min mile...but I am running just over 2 miles. I imagine to cover the extra distance I may need to slow even further. I have my 25 min run tomorrow and I will be curious to see what distance I cover in it.

I am focused on being able to run the distance and then will work on time. I know I won't set any records but I will be happy to just run the whole time. At least I am no longer on the couch!

[Not a runner-yet!]

My first 5k race sounds fun! It's a silly thing and for every kilometer you finish, they spray you with a different color of powdered paint! You wear a white tee shirt and it's tie-dyed when you're through! It's September 30 so I hope I'm really prepared. I'm not too worried about how fast I run, although it will be tough seeing so many people race in front of me, but I just want to finish! I'm running about 2.4 miles in 34 minutes doing the program. I'm week 6 run 2 so there is still some walking in there. I'm just really excited! Just do your best! We all are better off than when we first began!

[Jbutler]

That sounds like a very fun race too! Im going to have to keep my out for other runs like these that are fun and break up the monotony of running. I seem to be enjoying running (as much as one can really enjoy it), but I love turning it into a game or something fun.

I just got an email from the challenge stating that water tents will also have beer for those wanting to "shotgun a bud" throughout the course, I'm not a beer drinker do I'll be opting for water, but it should make it interesting hah!

[Chrissyteacup]

Wow the paint race sounds fun! I wouldn't fancy yours JB looks tough! Good luck with it