Running on the Beach

Have you ever ran on the beach?  It sounds so pleasant and relaxing.  I had imagined it to be much like this...

photo from dreamstime

With this in mind, we decided what better way to exercise on our vacation then to take our first ever run on the beach!  It started out well, but soon after I felt like I was swimming a marathon in the ocean rather than peacefully running on the beach. 

photo from photoshelter

Running on the beach, I realize now, is no joke!  It is HARD work and a much higher intensity level than running, say in our neighborhood on pavement.  After a 1/2 mile I was done.

photo from goerieblogs.com

I was breathing much deeper than I normally would be after 1 mile on pavement.  It was tough and wish I had read the below article before I started.  If you want to try beach running, take a look at the tips below for a successful run!

Tips for Running on the Beach

source: About.com

Running on the beach can not only be a peaceful, beautiful running experience, but it can also help make you a stronger runner. Running in the sand, especially dry sand, is tougher than running on pavement, so you'll definitely work harder on the beach. But being able to jump in the water after you're finished will make it worth your effort. Here are some tips for running on the beach:

Start on wet sand.

If you're new to beach running, start out on wet, firm sand -- it's much easier to run on than the soft, dry sand. You can slowly add 2 or 3-minute intervals on the softer sand, with longer recoveries on the wet sand. As you get used to the dry sand, you can start running on it for longer stretches.

Stick to flat ground.

Avoid running along a beach that's sloped because it can lead to injuries in your knees and ankles.

Don't expect to run your usual pace.

Again, running on the beach is harder than running on the pavement or on a treadmill, so you'll need to slow down. Don't overdo it.

Stay hydrated.

To prevent dehydration and other heat-related illnesses, make sure you hydrate properly and have plenty of water available. If there aren't any water fountains, you'll need to carry water or at least some cash to buy bottled water.

Protect your skin.

Running on the beach usually means that you're in direct sunlight, so make sure you protect your skin with a sunscreen of at least SPF 15. Try to avoid running between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun's intensity is at its greatest.
More: Sun Protection Tips for Runners

Ease into barefoot running.

Barefoot running is a good way to build up strength in your feet. But because we're used to wearing shoes all the time, our feet are not nearly as strong as they could be. If you start running barefoot on the beach too fast or too frequently, you could injure yourself. Start out with short runs -- just 15 minutes or so -- to build up some strength in your feet. And, of course, be on the lookout for broken glass and sea shells.

Have a pair of beach running shoes.

There aren't specific shoes made for beach running, but you're better off dedicating a pair of your running shoes for beach runs. That way, you don't have to bother trying to get all the sand out of your shoes after your runs.

article can be found here.

HAPPY RUNNING!

A little P90X update!

After 30 days we are starting to see results!

It's working!

P90X - A Male's Perspective

This, my second week of P90X, marks a milestone for me in regard to exercise video adherence. In my former life, 100 pounds heavier, I never passed the one week mark when it came to a video exercise program. I don’t know if that’s due to boredom or lack of discipline, but either way, I’m determined to not let it be a recurring theme.

I attacked the P90X program in true male fashion – I talked a big game going into it, but when it came time to do it I wanted to watch TV instead. I started the videos knowing how hard they would be, and they didn’t let me down – I got through half of the first workout before I had to stop. With my experience with the Couch-to-5k program, I learned the importance of knowing your limits. Any exercise routine should push you, but if you push too hard you’re not very likely to continue. Modification to some of the workouts was key to being able to continue. What’s the use in pushing yourself to do an exercise just like the trainer if it just results in an injury? In just my second week I’m already getting strong enough to do more reps and improve my form. It won’t be long until I’m doing the full routine like one of the people in the video. I don’t have to be perfect on day one – I didn’t get out of shape in one day, I’m not going to get in shape in one day.

Jess and I decided to do the workouts individually. I told her this would keep us from getting too competitive when, in truth, it keeps her from hearing me whine like a little girl during some of the routines. Doing the routine by myself allows me to focus on my form without feeling self-conscious. Plus, when you’re 6’6”, you kinda take up all the space in the room.

I still have a long way to go, but I can already see definition and increased flexibility. However, the greatest improvement I’ve had so far has been in my mind-set. With an almost masochistic anticipation, I now look forward to my workout every day and welcome the sore muscles the next. After a workout I’m wrecked, but I feel like I could take on the world. With these changes, and Jess’s support, I know I will be able to finish this program and continue beyond the 90 days.

P90X Day 8

This morning I completed Day 8 of P90X! Woohoo! That means I'm in my second week of the twelve week program!  One of the things I've learned in Weight Watchers is that it's important to be moving and active.  We are definitely moving more than we were a year ago!

We have chosen to modify P90X because it works better with our schedule.  The program suggests that you workout Monday - Saturday and rest on Sunday, but we are taking it a little slower and working out Monday-Friday.  We are still completing each day of the program, but it will take us longer than 90 days to do so.  It was also important that we not burnout on the program and that we enjoy ourselves while doing it.  Something about doing it on Saturday, just didn't sound fun to my late sleeping habits and errand running weekends! We use our weekends for other activities such as biking, swimming, running, and walking.


So, how's it going?  I can honestly say I enjoy every single workout!  I look forward to each day and feel fantastic after I finish.  It is extremely hard work (and I'm sore after each workout), but I know it will be worth it in the end.  I can already tell a difference in my stamina during the workouts and my strength.  I am able to see more muscle definition, for sure!  Don't get me wrong, I'm not a walking bodybuilder, but I can tell my muscles are taking shape.  We are documenting our progress through weekly pictures, that I will eventually share, but let's take this slow.  hehe  I'll save you the wonder and tell you there isn't much visible evidence from our first week of working hard and sweating up a storm, but we can tell a difference by other attributes.

Weight Loss?  As many of you know (because I believe in sharing my journey), I am very close to my WW goal and will become a Lifetime Member very soon.  P90X has definitely helped me get through my plateau and on my way.  I am currently 3.6 lbs away from my goal and hope to reach it within the next few weeks.

As always, if you have any questions about a healthier lifestyle or our P90X adventure, please let us know!

Coming soon: P90X - A Male's Perspective  

P90X Day 1

After a failed attempt at P90X back in 2009 I've decided to try again, but this time I will succeed. The differences between 2009 and now are my weight (at least 45 pounds lighter, maybe more), I'm actually in shape, more willpower, and I'm more in tune with my body.

I decided to blog about my progress mid-workout today because it will hold me even more accountable. Also, it will help me see how far I've come if I hit a plateau during the journey. I hope that it can also encourage others, because I'm not superwoman, I'm just a regular girl who wants to be more toned.

So, how did today go? It went well. I worked out for a total of 30 minutes. Not bad considering it is my first day, I have just gotten over a broken toe, and I still have a small cold! I will say that it is important to listen to your body and not overdo it. You should push yourself a little because if not, you will always stay in the same place, but don't overdo it to the point of injuring yourself or burning yourself out.

I had to modify a few positions in Core Synergies today because of my delicate big toe. For instance, when it was time for pushups, I was on my knees instead of my toes. Also, a few times I felt lightheaded and knew it was time for a small break.

Before starting any workout program, make sure you are hydrated and stay hydrated while working out. P90X is great because they allow for breathers and water breaks.

Until next time!