Wild hairs and Apple Beers

Today was my first run outside since October.  My plan was to run at the gym and use the 5k setting on the treadmill.  I was kinda dreading it even though I know that I need some practice before my official race on Saturday.  I happened to look out side and since it was so sunny that I got a wild hair decided to give it a shot.  I'm so glad that I did.  I dressed appropriately and for the most part the sidewalks were clear.  I chose to run in the neighborhood next to mine since the streets were clear, its fairly even terrain, and there's very little traffic. 

Overall I had a great run.  I was working hard but I also didn't feel like I was struggling.  I ran a little slower than I do on the treadmill but it seemed SO much easier since I was GOING somewhere.  I was also running pretty blindly because I couldn't see my phone and the running app really well.  I was shocked when I stopped for a short walk break and had already gone 1.61 miles.  I felt like I had only gone about a mile.  I went a little further and then decided to head back to my apt.  I stopped right at 3.15 miles.  I wasn't exhausted but still felt that I had worked hard. 

I used the Nike running app (this was the first time for that too) and although I'd really like to post a picture of my route I'm having trouble getting a screen shot.  I liked how it showed the levels of intensity throughout my route.  I could see when I was pushing myself and when I was taking a short walk break. 

My favorite part was the accomplishments that were recorded at the end.  They were: 

• Farthest Run 3.15 Mi
• Longest Run 43:27
• Fastest 1K 7:45 (WOAH!)
• Fastest Mile 12:37 (WOAH AGAIN!)
• Fastest 5K 41:37

I'm really proud of the 1K pave and the mile pace.  Even though it was the first long run, I can't wait to continue to improve.  It also gives me a really good idea of my times for Saturday's race.

Now I'm undoing all my hard work enjoying a Shock Top Honey Crisp Apple Ale  and waiting for my husband to come home for dinner.  I wish I would have done more blogging on my vacation but lets face it, I was lazy.   Hopefully I catch up on my photo-a-day before the end of the month.

Happy Running,
Mrs B.