Run, Run, As Fast As You Can
100th post!
So, I did indeed run last night. And, behold, it was awesome. It’s a really fantastic feeling to actually step off the treadmill having broken a sweat and to feel like I spent my time wisely. Also, my face turns bright red and stays that way for at least forty-five minutes afterwards. It’s charming, I assure you.
I’d heard about these podcasts that are timed to go along with the Couch to 5K program (via Janet and Whoorl). There is one for each week of the nine week program. Music plays the whole time and then the guy’s voice tells you when to run and when to walk. I decided to restart on Week 4 (I’d originally been up to about Week 7, but I didn’t think I’d be able to still do it), so I downloaded the podcast for Week 4. I absolutely loved having the voiced instructions. It was really great not to have to watch the timer (does ANYTHING make running go more slowly than watching the timer? No.), and just be able to run along in a blissful haze. But. . .the music? Is completely lame. It’s very techno-y and that’s just not cool. So now I have to decide whether I just enjoy the automatic voice and ignore the lousy music or make my own playlist or what. Any advice, anyone?
Music, I’ve found, is really the only way for me to run, though. I’ve tried podcasts, I’ve tried books on tape. . .none of them work very well for me. I can’t keep my mind focused on them. I love listening to either of those things while I lift weights or do sit-ups and push-ups. But for running, it’s a total loss. It’s gotta be music. Then my mind can wander at will. Plus, I’m already doing something awesome by running; I don’t need to be listening to the world news at the same time. I do like listening to podcasts while I cook or vacuum or put away the laundry. I listen to books on CD in the car which is super awesome. On the treadmill, however, I need to focus on my impending doom.
Nike has some great “workouts” on iTunes. They have voiced over instructions, but there’s a wider variety in music choices. They cost a bit, but I have really like them. There’s a new one I’d love to get called “Improve your endurance 1”. Good stuff.
I am completely with you on this won J. I am extremely picky about my running music. Brian is constantly sneeking things on to my MP3 player. Nothing worse than getting sludged in the middle of a hard run with The Carpenders. Grrrr. I have toiled many hours hand picking tunes. Don’t misunderstand me, I’m not sweating over who is singing the tune but what kind of beat it has. Some of my favorites are “I’m Too Sexy” “Jazz Machine” (Black Machine) “Skater Boy” and even “I Want You Back” (Jackson 5). I’m happy to swop ideas!
Lobster-faces Unite!!
also a lobster face here!!! my sister is too, even more than me.
I think you could definitely make your own playlists somehow, just make sure you splice the music the right way. I agree that the techno isn’t something I’d listen to if I wasn’t on the treadmill, but for some reason it just works for me. I am on Week 2 right now, but I modify it by running the 5 min warm up and cool down.
I admire you for running. I have never been able to find the joy so many people experience. I exercise for the benefits only and find it a chore.