Warning - I'm Whining, Just a TAD

I've been doing combination of walk/run/walk/run now for about 1 month. My goal is to be able to run 3 miles continuously without stopping. Not a strenuous goal, not even a large goal. But I confess it is much harder than I thought. I've been very dedicated to this goal - not skipping a running day at all and I do some light cycling on my "off" days to maintain my fitness level.

I now remember precisely why I stopped running back in 2004. IT HURTS! Yes, I'm whining - just a little bit. Running is not easy or everybody would do it. I am definitely feeling that "why can't I cycle" emotion right now. My darn IT Band gets inflamed from any serious cycling which doesn't seem to be the case with running. But because of my tendency towards IT Band issues, I am going very cautiously at building my running program.

I went online to do some research on the best way to build my training program. It is a bit discouraging to know that I am behind the recommendations to date. I'm using my body as a guide though so I have been reluctant to follow a real plan YET. I am going to park the "follow a stinking plan" idea for a few more weeks while I continue to build and allow my body to adapt to the pounding that running requires.

I haven't sold my racing bike yet - I just can't seem to give up that dream. I realize that I will probably never ride it again but I still have hope. I confess, every time I go into the room, the race bike calls my name. No, it is not an inanimate object. It used to talk to me on my rides - we were like one.

Maybe I should move it to the basement in an effort to quiet the voice. No - I will not be selling it; not any time soon, maybe never. While I try to quiet the sound, I will keep running, crawling, walking, pounding ever on to my new goal. And remind myself that this is a fresh start, brand new and one that doesn't require the threat of broken bones to get my blood pumping. It only requires the right attitude and the same perseverance that race training required.

I can do this! Failure is not an option.