I turned forty a few weeks ago. The day was harder than I expected it to be, and I don’t really know why. However, the day passed and now it’s just a number.
With the milestone birthday, I paused to reflect on the past, the present and the future. Time is flying and there are still so many things I want to do. The reality sunk in that I better start doing them. With that zest and enthusiasm for things not previously attempted, I signed up for a 10K run this month. My husband decided to join me for support, and more than anything, the training has been fun. We run at separate times (someone has to watch those kids) but we plan our routes together, keep track of our improvements and encourage each other to not give up.
I started slowly, doing one minute intervals of running and two minutes of walking. Now, I can do a four minute running interval with one minute of walking. The improvement is gradual but it’s consistent – and that feels so rewarding. I can now do a 5K run in about 46 minutes, and that’s something I never even imagined being able to do.
My friend Astrid is a runner, and she got me on to the Nike+ website and the Nike Ipod Sports Kit. Basically, you plug this little thing into your Ipod Nano, you attach the little sensor to the laces on your sneakers, and you take off! The sensor syncs with your Ipod and at the end of your run, you know exactly how far you ran, and what your pace was. The little gadget is $29 and looks like this:
To makes things even better, when you plug your Ipod into your computer, it redirects you to your Nike+ homepage where you can view a history of your runs and keep track of total distance. It’s so motivating to keep track of my progress, and it really motivates me to push myself harder each time.
Here’s a pic of my runs so far:
I think that is brilliant. My brain is so much hotter than it was at 20! Your perspective is fantastic.
I will keep you posted on the outcome, Sara! I’m very excited 🙂
Thanks for the wishes, Tracey!!
Ooh! I started running last fall (and turn 40 this fall… coincidence?), too, and have gradually gone from 60s of running to doing a 5k as well, and I couldn’t be happier. Such a great feeling, isn’t it?
But what I’m really ooh-ing about is that gadget! I’ve been running on a treadmill for the cold months, but was wanting to move back outdoors once it is nice again, and was a little worried about measuring distance and pace – that gadget sounds like the perfect answer! Mother’s day, anyone?
you are right, it is just a number and a fantastic one at that. i find people too often look at their butts when they turn 40 but forget the most beautiful part..the brain! at 40 it is so perky and interesting and fun and is getting better all the time! my 20 year old brain was not this hot.
happy birthday to you!
Happy 40th!!! It’s the best decade…I’m three years into it! Awesome for you on doing the run! Can’t wait to hear how it goes!
Good for you, girl. And HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AMREEN!!
I CAN’T STOP SHOUTING!!! Okay, better now… I hope this is your best year yet! xoxoxox