I am no longer a runner

Please no longer refer to me as a "runner" or "someone who runs" or ask me questions about running or running accessories or races.

I am no longer a runner.

I'm not trying to be dramatic.  I'm just trying to tell the whole world at once.   So we're all clear.

Today I went out for my first run in a week. I decided to take it easy on myself and only run 5 minute intervals- that means five minutes of running for everyone one minute of walking.  I got halfway through the first interval and had to look down at my watch.  Looking down at my watch means I'm struggling to continue to run, and I've got to look at it to see if I can make it the remaining bit.  When I looked down I still had two minutes to go.  I distracted myself long enough to make it to that first five minute timer, but on each successive "run" period, I ran only a minute or two. The last three "run" periods I didn't run at all.

The same thing happened last week on the one day I attempted to run (yes, I was lazy last week while I was on vacation and did not even attempt to run).

I don't know what it is that makes me now declare I will no longer be a runner.  I think it's partly that I've gained weight. I think it's partly that I'm spotty in actually getting my run workouts in.  I think it's partly that I have a defeatist attitude toward running.  I think it's partly that I'd rather be swimming. I think it is partly that it is already 80 degrees so I'm sweating just standing outside, let alone running. I'm just frustrated with it.

What this means is that I will not be racing any more.  Races are fun, but only when you actually have a shot at meeting any sort of goal. The goals can be anything, like running faster than your last race time or running the whole distance or running longer intervals.  Right now the only goal I could meet is to finish the whole 5k.  Not finish in any sort of time, but just make it the entire three miles.  And I've already done that a few times, so there's nothing special in it.

I did inadvertently sign up for a 5k that supports a good cause this Saturday, before I decided to no longer be a runner.  I think I'll just walk it.  (Side note to LJ-sorry I signed for the running team when it turns out I am actually a walker. But I am excited to see you wear that tutu!)

I don't know what this means for my triathlons.  The first one I'm seriously considering doing is June 9, so perhaps my feelings toward running could change before then.  Or perhaps I'll just walk the run portion.  I'm not sure.  I don't think I'm ready to give up tris yet.

Anyway, I thought you all should know.

On a more pleasant note, Happy First Day of Spring!

Dogwoods are my favorite tree-flower.