Back to Running...Take 2

So it's almost a third of the way through 2010 and I have yet to run a single step, aside from dodging snow plows during the dual blizzards we got earlier in the month. I'm out of excuses and my guilt has finally hit critical mass: I've got to get back to running.

But this time, I need to also make an effort to go beyond just running three days a week. I want to get fit all around because I think only by developing some good cross training routines on my off days can I avoid injuries as I ramp back up in my mileage over the coming weeks and months.

So, I've joined the gym at work, which is good deal at just $25/month. I get a decently-equipped gym that has all I need for a runner's strength training program, as well as some treadmills for the occasional foul weather run and showers and a locker room. On days that I'm not running, I'll be doing core work and lifting some weights to develop some more strength in the muscles I use when I run.

I'm not going to push it though. I haven't registered for any races of any distance between now and the beginning of May, when I'll run in a 5K as part of my prep school's Alumni Weekend. After that, we'll see what I feel like doing over the summer. There are a few races during the hot months that I might run, but I'd like to really focus on putting together my fitness so I'm running regular 10 milers or more again by the fall. Maybe that's possible; maybe not. Ideally I'd like to run the Baltimore Running Festival again in October (5K more than likely, rather than the half, but we'll see). And I am nearly certain I'm going to "run" in the Warrior Dash Mid Atlantic in early October. It's basically a 5K over a crazy obstacle course where you're climbing hills, swimming through ponds, jumping over fire and crawling through mud. At the end though, you get unlimited (I'm hoping) free beer, a huge medal and a big warrior hat with horns. Sounds really fun and a good motivator over the next seven months.

With that, this week's schedule is to take tomorrow off but then start on Tuesday with a 2 mile easy run and going from there. Let's see if I can follow through this time!