ready. set. go

For the past nine years I'd lived in a residential neighborhood and that provided a lot of roads, bays, crescents, coves, drives and streets to run and walk on. However, we've recently moved outside the city and there are a lot of open, straight gravel roads. Especially in the winter, they're not the most suitable for running on compared to sidewalks and cleared streets. So for me, figuring out where I can actually run is an important first step. I don't actually mind running not on perfectly smooth land, so gravel roads are just fine. Ice and snow sometimes presents a challenge but I suppose a challenge is good :)

Which roads to take and how long/where different streets go is important to know before I just go run around the neighbourhood! So I have checked out google maps to see where in Grande Pointe one can go on a decent jog and not get lost. I kind of know which roads lead where and about how long they are which was a main goal for me to start. Generally, I'll stick with a main road... since I'm in the country there are a lot of long main roads and they are usually not too icy or covered in snow. My mentor (who is also my mother) also wants to start running in the area so she'll come with me sometimes. We have driven around, and I have figured out some routes and roads that suit my intent.

Recently it's been rediculously freezing and I'd been sick with a cold. Such cold temperatures are not ideal for running cause the cold air can be a shock to your lungs (especially when sick) and can cause your muscles to cramp easily, which ruins your ability to run quite honestly. Plus, it kills any motivation as well... However, I'm determined to actually get started by now since it's almost March and it seems to be a bit better weather. I intend to run on days with little wind and a bit warmer temperatures which seem to be coming over the next few weeks. So now I don't have an excuse!

I have set my Nike+ program to begin on Sunday, March 1st (which I shall blog about the details next. Because there are a lot - plus I'm still figuring out how the scheduling training works!) It's currently set to prepare me for running a half marathon by May which gives me some room to adjust. More on that next time though. I'm looking forward to it ...and hoping that it will be above -30 degrees outside.

introduction

This year I once again shall do a passion project in school but decided to spend time/make time for an activity that I love doing and have wanted to do more of, however just didn't make myself.
I chose to do running for a variety of reasons. Running is one of the things that I know is good for me health-wise,  I enjoy doing it (well not starting but once I get into it,) plus I probably do not run enough. It also gives me much needed yet rare time outside. Also, it gives me the opportunity to set clear goals that I can work towards and self motivate... plus it takes me away from homework for just a bit too! Essentially, the plan at this point for my project is to run regularly, build up my endurance, speed, and the distance that I can run for. In this process, I also hope to learn the why of running - what are the benefits and how can one improve or better the effects of running for them (eg. when to run, interval running, what to do before/after running, etc.)
I often go jogging with my sister so I'm anticipating spending time with her while doing an activity we both enjoy. We both got into running from a younger age when my mom encouraged (or forced) us to go every other day. Rather than protesting like I used to, now I go out on my own. She shall be my mentor for this project now, since she can remind me to follow my schedule and even come along the occasional time. I am definitely looking forward to seeing where this project takes me... hoping it shall be far!