Fitness

I realize I haven't commented about how I am doing with my exercise goals for a while. Sorry. I guess I had a set back, but nothing major. About 2 1/2 weeks ago my right knee started bothering me. It was right during the time I started pushing the running more. I ran 7 miles and then I ran a fast 4 miles, then pain. I knew it was runners knee. The annoying part about it, is that it never hurts that bad when I run so I never want to stop. Then afterwards the achy pain occurs all the time. The real bothersome part would be at night when I would turn my body around, the pain would wake me up.

So, I took about a 2 week break from running. I did the elliptical machines and the bike. Both are not as gratifying as running, but it was something. I also told my trainer and we did some strengthening exercises. After about 1 1/2 weeks, I noticed no change in the pain, which was really frustrating. So, I went to the running store I got my shoes at and they were very very helpful. They looked at my shoes and told me they were great shoes for me and did not need to be replaced. They also watched me walk and felt like I over pronated once my foot was on the ground. I agree with them. They recommended some foot inserts and I bought them. The next day I ran 3 miles with no problems what so ever! I didn't want my hopes to get up and didn't want to psych myself out, but really, it was amazing. So now I have run a couple times and still feel good. I do feel I have to catch up a little bit on the running, but it isn't that bad.

My training sessions have been going great. About every other week he comments how fast I am improving. It makes me think I have super human strength. I like hearing that. I have definitely seen results. When I flex my arms now I see a little bump up on top and a crease in the middle (how exciting!). I like feeling strong, in fact, that is my mantra. When I am lifting weights and it is starting to get hard, in my mind I tell myself "I am strong." It seems silly, but it works. If I would have thought about it more, I would have tried to make a more creative mantra, but it just happened without thought.

Here's a picture Aaron took for me. You can see for yourself. Maybe a little more impressive in my head....

Tonight is Henry's second skating lesson. Excited to see how it goes. We went skating last Saturday and he has already improved. I am hoping he will be more independent instead of holding the instructors hands. I'll let you all know.