W6D3 - A 25-minute runner!

What a rush!

The weather was actually nice for a change, who knows, in this country it might very well be the last day of summer. So it had to be enjoyed of course.

I went out for the run at 9 am this morning to beat the heat and went to my usual trail. I had a hunch it was going to be far to short, but I'd hook a small loop into it.

The first ten minutes went really well. The next eight or so minutes were really rough to get too. I had to cheer myself on, I had to keep going! The last bit five minutes seemed easiest. I was on auto-pilot, breathing and keeping my pace without thinking a single thought. It was so intense, yet so relaxing for the spirit.

I made one big mistake at the end. I stood on the scale at home. Bah, still haven't lost a single pound, still my weight is up from where it was when I started running. My head knows it shouldn't pay attention to the scale, rather to the mirror, but it's still somewhat of a bummer. I guess it's because really I only have about 10-15 pounds to lose and that would be lighter than I've ever been since fully grown up. Maybe my body is at it's 'natural' weight.

I do see big improvements. Did the WiiFit body test and just stood there to be measured. My balance has shifted much more to the middle. I was already in the center, but my posture seemed to hold my weight to the back. Now it's nicely in the middle.

• So my posture has improved.
• My tummy does seem a little flatter and my thighs and arms just a little less flabby.
• My body is starting to crave 'good' food, which is really weird, sitting on the couch having a glass of wine and craving an apple to eat.
• My skin and my nails look healthier. My hair is still a mess, but that's mostly cause I haven't had my hair cut in about 5 months and it's long overdue. Maybe when I am less broke.

On to week seven, the continuous runs! I know I can do it, and I know you all can do it too!

Now to find my watch so I won't have to haul the iPod with me!

Very Good Taste's Omnivore 100

My love of food made me fill it out and pure curiosity!

“The site Very Good Taste posted a list of 100 things that they felt every good omnivore should try at least once in his or her life.”

Copy this list into your blog, including these instructions.

Bold all items you’ve eaten.
Cross out any items that you would never consider eating. In my case they are the red text, because I'm too lazy to go around my blog editor and edit all HTML to make it strike-through.

1. Venison
2. Nettle tea
3. Huevos rancheros
4. Steak tartare
5. Crocodile - at my favorite restaurant Specktakel, they often have the most awesome exotic dishes
6. Black pudding - it just sounds too disgusting, unless you're a vampire I guess
7. Cheese fondue
8. Carp
9. Borscht - Looking forward to trying this sometime
10. Baba ghanoush - I've had a variation to it, but not real Baba ghanoush
11. Calamari - Hmmm one of my favorite tapas
12. Pho
13. PB&J sandwich - Nomnomnom, just half an hour ago actually
14. Aloo gobi
15. Hot dog from a street cart
16. Epoisses - Hmmm cheeeeese, I haven't found a cheese I don't like yet
17. Black truffle
18. Fruit wine made from something other than grapes
19. Steamed pork buns
20. Pistachio ice cream
21. Heirloom tomatoes
22. Fresh wild berries - I picked some blackberries last week actually
23. Foie gras - I love food, but I won't eat of something that I -know- has suffered greatly during it's life
24. Rice and beans
25. Brawn, or head cheese - It just sounds and looks very unappetizing
26. Raw Scotch Bonnet pepper - Will save that for a drunken night challenge
27. Dulce de leche
28. Oysters
29. Baklava - One of the best sweet snacks/desserts in the world
30. Bagna cauda -I'd love to try this
31. Wasabi peas
32. Clam chowder in a sourdough bowl - I love fish and seafood, but this just sounds so wrong
33. Salted lassi
34. Sauerkraut - Icky, glad my mom can't make me eat it anymore
35. Root beer float - I had a taste, I don't like rootbeer, it was too sweet
36. Cognac with a fat cigar
37. Clotted cream tea
38. Vodka jelly/Jell-O - Sounds like another weekend adventure
39. Gumbo
40. Oxtail
41. Curried goat
42. Whole insects - -shudders-
43. Phaal
44. Goat’s milk
45. Malt whisky from a bottle worth £60/$120 or more
46. Fugu - As a sushi-enjoyer I'd love to try this one day
47. Chicken tikka masala
48. Eel - Several kinds of eel even
49. Krispy Kreme original glazed doughnut - Will try next time when I'm in the USA
50. Sea urchin
51. Prickly pear
52. Umeboshi
53. Abalone
54. Paneer - Looks yummy, will try to find sometime
55. McDonald’s Big Mac Meal
56. Spaetzle
57. Dirty gin martini - Had it to try it, never again and that goes to all Martini's
58. Beer above 8% ABV - Not that uncommon here :)
59. Poutine
60. Carob chips
61. S’mores
62. Sweetbreads - It doesn't sound right, though depending on the smell and texture I might try
63. Kaolin
64. Currywurst
65. Durian
66. Frogs’ legs
67. Beignets, churros, elephant ears or funnel cake
68. Haggis - I can't even begin to explain
69. Fried plantain
70. Chitterlings, or andouillette - I just don't like organ meat I guess...
71. Gazpacho
72. Caviar and blini
73. Louche absinthe - no comment ;)
74. Gjetost, or brunost
75. Roadkill
76. Baijiu
77. Hostess Fruit Pie
78. Snail - Might try it
79. Lapsang souchong
80. Bellini
81. Tom yum
82. Eggs Benedict - Steve promised me he'd make me some when he found out I didn't even know what it was
83. Pocky
84. Tasting menu at a three-Michelin-star restaurant. - If I could ever afford it yes!
85. Kobe beef - Same too expensive
86. Hare
87. Goulash
88. Flowers
89. Horse
90. Criollo chocolate - chocolate.......
91. Spam
92. Soft shell crab
93. Rose harissa - My sister makes wonderful dishes with this stuff
94. Catfish
95. Mole poblano - Fresh and homemade is the best and is very healthy
96. Bagel and lox
97. Lobster Thermidor
98. Polenta
99. Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee
100. Snake

W6D2 - Tired but good

Yesterday's run went really well, even though the weather wasn't all that cooperative.

The first interval was pretty easy, I even did a faster pace than before once I got into the rhythm. The second interval kicked my ass! I did finish it, but at a slower pace.

I think the three minute brisk walk break did me in. It was too short to really catch my breath and it took me off the nice rhythm I was having. It makes me look forward to Saturday, doing 25 minutes without any intervals.

But I did finish it.

My usual running trail is getting too short for the runs now, I was back at my car when I still had to do the 5 minute cooldown. It's a really nice trail through the dune forest of about 4km (around 2.5 mile) and I'm not sure how to extend it yet without getting lost. There's another trail at another entrance to the park, but that's 6km (3.7 mile) and much more hilly terrain, so I don't think it's an option.

I might have to resort to finding another quiet park or if I really have to, go out on the street. I love the quietness of nature, the lack of people and the fresh air the forest gives me. I'm still very self-conscious and shy and I really don't like the thought of running where a lot of people can see me. I'll get over it one day! I know I've gotten off my ass to run, which was the first step!

Yoga

I've thought about taking yoga lessons for years, but never got around to it, money-or timewise. But the new me got in action and found a yoga school close by. I should be taking my first "test" lesson next week.

Sometimes it scares me how much I'm turning into a 'sporty' person! I would have never considered myself one, but right now I don't even consider missing a run in the week anymore and am actually thinking of more activities, like yoga.

W6D1 - Deerly distracted

The run went okay yesterday, weather was so-so, but it was really quiet in the park. The first two intervals were great, I had lots of energy and ran at a higher pace again.

Around halfway through the last interval a deer suddenly jumped on the path and ran a little ahead of me and then to the right into the woods again. I stopped and looked, we don't see a lot of deer 'in the wild' anymore nowadays. The deer stopped and looked at me and what I was doing. It was a really nice moment.

I couldn't get back into it after that so I just walked the rest of the trail. Only did about half the last interval. It wasn't just the deer, I was overall very distracted over the course of the day, I couldn't focus on anything. Energy-wise I could have kept going, I was tired, I just didn't -feel- like it anymore.

Better run tomorrow!

W5D3 - What a rush!

I did it!

I did the infamous W5D3!

It was really really hard and in the end I was actually telling myself out loud to keep going, cheering myself on. It was mostly a mental threshold, because physically, yes I was tired, but not exhausted.

The entire twenty minutes I really focused on my breathing. A good steady rhythm in my breath that translated itself to a steady pace of my legs. I started off a little too fast, but after a minute or two I paced myself down. My legs seemed to move on their own, it was mostly the breathing (not getting out of breath) I needed to to control.

After the 20 minutes were up and I slowed down to a walk I felt so exhilarated it was crazy. I didn't feel tired till a good hour after getting home. Between the end of the run and getting tired I cleaned my house, cooked lunch, I was just bursting of energy, it was amazing.

On to week 6!

W5D2 - OMFG!

I was again amazed with myself and the progress I've made. I honestly didn't think I could do the eight minute intervals, but I could, and I DID!

Made it through just fine yesterday and now I get to wonder about tomorrow's W5D3, the one we all dread. As long as I remember pacing myself I -think- I can do it!

Kind of short on time, so leaving it at this.

W5D1 - Muddy shoes

The weather was kind of weird yesterday, sunny one moment, pooring rain the next. But I decided not to let the chance for rain stop me. I went on the first run of week five.

It went really well, kind of uneventful.

Some things I'm starting to notice about myself:

• My mind is actually clear when I run, no pondering!
• Time is going by faster, run was over before I knew it
• I feel much more positive about myself and my life
• I spend much less time on useless activities, I'm relearning my priorities

All in all I feel good.

Now back to getting nervous for W5D3 ;)

Hiking - National Park Zuid Kennemerland

I'm settling into a weekly schedule for exercise at the moment. I'm doing C25K workouts on Tuesday - Thursday - Saturday, but I was missing something, I was itching to go out and be active on Sunday.

I didn't want to go running, because I've read a lot of information on the importance of a resting day between runs, especially for a newbie like me. So I decided to go to the National Park and take one of their marked routes.

I took the 7km route (4.34 miles) thinking it'd be a nice and easy start of going hiking on a weekly basis.

I was wrong!

First of all the positives, it was a really nice day and the scenery was simply amazing. The walk took me through grassy dunes, sand dunes, forests and meadows. It's a park close to the coast, technically it's a dune area, very hilly terrain and I am still feeling it today.

Took some nice pictures during the walk with my phone! But I can't seem to remember taking them off there and put them online, so I will save that for another post.

The whole hike/walk took me an hour and 45 minutes. I was pretty tired when I got to my car, so I stretched a little to make sure my muscles wouldn't be sore. Taking a long brisk walk is actually harder on my body than jogging it seems. A muscle in my loins on the right side hurts when I walk and my left lower leg is sore.

I did make sure I had something to eat and drink with me, which was very welcome during the walk. I intentionally left my cigarettes at home because I'm trying to cut down (I know I know, I need to quit, but cold turkey hasn't worked for me the last four times I did it).

I took a nice hot shower after I got home and felt content and energetic the rest of the day!

My scale said 62kg yesterday morning! So down 2kg from the initial weight gain, which may have been related to my cycle too. I'm so happy with the results I'm seeing and feeling. I feel so much better about myself, I'm proud of myself, which causes me to look better too. I see myself shaping up, only if it's just little changes.

I'll see how I feel tomorrow, if I'm still sore, I'm gonna have to keep resting, because I really don't want to injure myself.

Now that I know what the park is like and the routes and the preparations I -should- take, I am planning on walking their 10km route next sunday!

W4D2 & W4D3 - Hanging in there

I ran W4D2 on thursday after work and W4D3 this morning after getting up and having breakfast. As much as I was looking up to this week I was doing really well!

I might actually go for another W4 run tomorrow morning if the weather is decent enough.

I feel much fitter, much better and much happier with myself.

Will have more time to keep my journal next week!

W4D1 - THAT time a month

Disclaimer, if you are uncomfortable reading about women's periods, stop reading. Though I'll never understand why anyone would be uncomfortable about a part of nature affecting half the world's population and basically a sign of a well-functioning body.

My boyfriend is one of the people clicking the page close probably, he's one of those men that have been brainwashed into believing it's something icky and bad.

So I went to 'attempt' W4D1 today. I figured I would not be able to do it because my period started today. Basically on day one I'm doubled over in pain and tend to not be able to do much. I have in the past had to call in sick to work because the pain was unbearable.

Now this time, the pain wasn't all that bad to begin with. It was surprisingly mild. In my head the link to my exercise was made pretty quickly since it's one of the only things that has changed in my life. I did some research and wow the information was overwhelming. How I wish I had known a few years ago.

No one ever told me that exercise can help prevent menstruation symptons, not even my doctor who I have seen regularly with my PMS and menstruation problems. It has always been regular, but so incredibly painful! And long. I menstruate for 7-9 straight days. I'm kinda hoping this exercise won't just take away some of the pain, but maybe shorten the wole thing too.

Alright I sort of drifted off there.

The run went amazingly well. I paced myself during the first set of intervals. I was absolutely shocked when my podcast announced that the five minute interval was up! It didn't feel like it! And best of all, my cramps flared up a little during the first interval, but the actually completely faded for a good few hours after that!

The next set of intervals I even upped the pace a little.

I was nice and tired in a good way after I was done stretching. It felt good. It felt like an accomplishment.

If you would have asked me a month ago if I'd ever be able to run five straight minutes I would have laughed in your face. I did it though. I can't believe the progress and because of the progress it's easy to stay motivated and look forward to the next run. Because next run will go better again!

More positive side-effects of exercise for teh win!

W3D3 - Not completely broken

I did W3D3 in the park sunday afternoon. Weather was a bit iffy, it was sunny, but with dark clouds passing every now and then, some rain looming, but you never know when it bursts loose.

It was a really nice workout, I didn't feel quite 'done' at the end. I've been having that feeling after every run this week, possibly because it's one of the shorter weeks (time and distance wise).

One major change I'm starting to really notice now is that I am not pushing myself out of the door anymore. I'm actually glad when I find time to run and I get excited about seeing my progress.

I'm definitely making progress.

When I started I was out of breath after the minute intervals, now I honestly think I could have continued running after the three-minute mark was up! I feel fitter, and also very important I sleep a lot better. Somehow my body is craving less bad foods, that might come with the mindset of becoming healthier, but I don't even -want- to eat some stuff now.

I wasn't eating that unhealthy to begin with, I've been on a very balanced, healthy diet for about three years now and had a stable weight all that time. But there was still some wiggle-room for the occasional unhealthy snack to sneak in there. I've been doing that less.

And drinking.

I'm from the Netherlands, Europe. We have a much different attitude to drinking than for example the USA. It's normal for people to have a glass of wine or two for dinner almost every day.

And it's something I've enjoyed, just one glass of wine with a good meal to unwind after the day. I know it's not all bad for you, but still calories. Especially on the friday night where you have quite a few glasses.

This week it just hasn't tasted the same. And I think twice about that glass with dinner, because I want to go out running later. I want to go out running!

So lots of progress, but like I mentioned a few days ago, also one downfall. I've gained weight. But for now, I will count that as gaining muscle and retained water by my muscles. My jeans do not seem any tighter, and that is usually the first thing one notices when gaining weight. I'll weigh myself again in three weeks to see how it goes.

Feeling fitter and better about myself!

W3D2 - Ignore previous post

And the day after I announce my break of a whole week, I actually go out and do W3D2 after all. It went great! I was actually not feeling done yet after the last interval.

I went out running late too.

It was around 9pm when I stood on the scale and saw the numbers 64 in big angry font. I have gained THREE KILO'S since I started the Couch to 5K program a few weeks ago. I've been watching my food intake for a few years now and have been at a very stable weight (though at the high end of the BMI normal range).

So I start exercising and now I have been bumped from the normal range to the overweight range.

I finally finally allowed myself to cry.

I let it all out, not just the frustration of gaining weight while I'm trying to lose it, but just life in general. I got so angry and upset and frustrated that I was thinking to myself "I really really want to go out for a run".

I didn't have the push myself at all, I wanted to get out there and run and to stop all these thoughts.

And it worked!

I had one of the best runs so far, and my thoughts have been diverted. They are actually a ton happier now and satisfied with another good workout. I mean I cant be mad at my body for gaining weight while I am getting fitter. There's no doubt about that at all, I couldn't dream of running a minute straight at first and today those 3 minute-intervals were a breeze!

I don't have the feeling I've gained inches, though I should really start measuring. Let's say my jeans are not tighter and they are the kind of jeans you would notice it on right away. So right now, I'm thinking muscles and some water weight held by those muscles I've suddenly started using again :)

Up to W3D3 sunday morning!

Weeklong break

I got a new tattoo done last tuesday, it came out so beautiful, I love it!

But due to the fresh ink, my exercise is on a break for at least a week. Sweating is a big no-no for a new tattoo, and since it's gonna be a part of me for the rest of my life, I want it to heal well and stay pretty. They advise to rest about five days.

When I pick it back up next week I'll restart with W2D3 just to get back into it and continue on to W3. I think this is a better idea than just picking it up where I left off when not doing any physical activity for a week straight.

So see you in the weekend or maybe shortly thereafter!

W3D1 - Feeling fitter

This morning around 10 am I headed to the park to do W3D1. I was looking up to it, the weather was wet and cold and the thought of running three whole minutes freaked me out.

No such thing!

It went great, by the end I honestly thought there was another set of intervals coming. I kept my pace the same as I did last time. Enough to raise my pulse and make me sweat, but not too much that I couldn't breathe or talk.

I actually felt really invigorated when I got back to my back, not tired at all. I take it as a sign that my body is starting to get used to the exercise and is actually starting to get a tiny bit fitter.

I am not sure how the rest of the week is going to be. I'm getting a new tattoo tuesday afternoon. My plan is running Wednesday-Friday-Sunday as usual, but I'm not sure if I need to take it easy for a day or two after getting it, something to do with sweat.

I'm very excited with my new tattoo. I have been looking for the perfect design for a year or so, and I walked into the tattoo shop here for five minutes and I found it.

I fell in love.

It was the feeling I had with both my other tattoos, it is just perfect for this time, this place.

I will definitely show it off in a post later this week!

W2D3 - Pace myself

I took the afternoon off from work to enjoy the nice weather while it lasts and look up a route in the national park nearby to do my runs in a more pleasant surrounding.

I found a gorgeous 4km route that is just the right length to do a complete exercise including warm-up and cool down. And it is so nice and quiet there! There were hardly any people around which made the run a ton more enjoyable for me.

Like I said before, it's not just getting my ass in gear, I'm also trying to overcome my shyness and self-conscience. I have a hard time running where a lot of people can see me.

This was perfect.

And because I was having such a hard time on wednesday I decided to take a lower pace. Guess what, that was my problem all along. I thought I was jogging as slow as I could. Nah, I was pushing it. Not good when you're out of shape. So I took it down to 75% of my previous pace and it was so nice!

I felt great while running, concentrating on my breathing and on not going too fast. I had a little bit of trouble at the second interval, but that was because it ended up being in a little hilly area of the route.

I felt like I was on fire!

I still had plenty of energy left by the sixth interval that I paced up and completely finished it.

When I came home I didn't feel exhausted, completely the opposite, I felt refreshed and energized. I actually ended up cleaning the house and doing the laundry before I hit the shower!

I enjoyed myself during the run!

I was still feeling great after the run!

I'm proud of still being on it, considering my notorious record of abandoning exercise after only a week of trying it.

If weather permits I'm going to take a 5 mile walk in another area of the national park. Just a simple walk, no straining myself, but just enjoying nature and clearing my head. I'm actually looking forward to getting off my butt and out of the door in the scary wide open.

Sunday I will do W3D1, and I'll definitely do it in the forest again, it was awesome.