Grow Up a Little

After I wrote that post last Friday* about how I could absolutely not run at 7 a.m., all I could think about was how stupid that sounded.

Really? I'm physically incapable of running at an early hour? All I can manage at 7 a.m. is to drive myself to the gym, wriggle into my swimsuit and dive into a pool?  No, try again whiner.

So today I challenged myself to grow up a little and do something that I didn't feel like doing. I started my day with a run.  And it was, eh, okay.

Let's face it, running is going to be hard no matter what time of day I do it.  And while swimming is definitely a preferred form of exercise, I really do want to kick running's (beep).  I want to get to the point again where running three miles is no big deal. I want to participate in another triathlon.  I want to not give up on this, because somehow in my mind I've tied up succeeding at running with succeeding at being healthier and losing weight. Crazy, but true, and possibly not a completely detrimental way to look at things.

Sunrise in the park.

There were some benefits to a morning run, including:
It was a little easier to zone out at a time of day when I'd prefer to be asleep.
I got to shower and dress at home instead of in the locker room after swimming.
I got to see a beautiful sunrise.  (see picture.)

So for this week, at least, I'm committed to running twice in the morning before work (I'm halfway there!). The other three days I'll swim, which will be my little reward for sticking it out on the runs.  And Saturday, I have a run date scheduled with Cindy. That means I've got to stick with my running plans this week so I'll be ready to keep up with her.

*BTW, thanks for your comments, Jess and Kristen.  I think you're both right.  Swimming is a great form of exercise that it is great for you, but easier on your joints.  But I also need to diversify a bit.


PS Today is my baby sister's 24th birthday!