Week 6.5

And now for a more optimistic mid-week update.  I am starting to think that my trainer is paying people to give me pep talks, which is totally fine by me.  I had a little bit of a freak out during one of our workouts last week.  I almost starting bawling because I was so frustrated.  I hadn't lost any weight, I was (and still am) having issues every time I try to set out jogging and consequently am not making near the progress I had hoped for.  Take that and add an overwhelming week at work and I as kinda pissy and upset.  He suggested that we change some things up and he start "pushing me harder".  I agreed we needed to do somethings differently, but then before I could even stop myself I let out a stern warning: "If you go all Jillian Michaels on me and yell at me even once I will punch you in the throat." I think he may find me a little crazy.

So anyway, the pep talks.  So today as I was struggling through our work out.  There are always several other people around also working with trainers in the same area. When we finished up today, one of the ladies that was working out nearby caught up with me on the track and asked how things were going and we started chatting.  She is definitely fit.  She complimented my dedication and said that she has noticed me improving over the last few weeks and to "keep at it".  That was nice to hear.  Especially since I have no clue who this lady is.

Next up is Personal Trainer John, another Iron Man, much like my brother.  As I am stretching he asks if I have an event coming up and pulls up some floor.  I tell him which one and he knows all about that particular race and said he knows the director.  He thinks it's a good one to try first.  He thinks an "all girl" event is a good place to start for first time female runners.  I told him about my progress (and lack there of) to date.  He was encouraging and seems to think that as long as I keep doing what I am doing and stick to the training routine, even if I can't do it all in running, but meet the specified duration in cardio activity that I will be fine.  This goes along with what Jared's coaching suggested as well.  It's nice to get some advice that matches!  Don't get me wrong, I appreciate ALL advice that I have been given so keep it coming!

So as I am starting week 7 I am feeling much better than last week.  I am sure the roller coaster ride will continue with good weeks and bad weeks.

Lessons Learned:

1.  Cramping is no fun.  I repeat, NO FUN.  I have been getting calf cramps in the middle of the night and boy do those wake you up in a jolt!  And the soreness!  That lasts for a couple days too.  I hate leg cramps
2.  I needs suggestions on how to prevent leg cramps.  Things tried so far are foam rolling every night, trying my best to stay hydrated, NUUN is my hydration choice so far but may need to be revisited, and stretching.  Lots of stretching.
3.  I added some Gin Wigmore to my playlist.  Some good beats to trot along with.
4.  During my workouts with Jason I am having a lot of lower back cramping, particularly doing weighted squats and dead lifts.  Anyone have some good exercises to strengthen this area?

Here's to a better week!  Thanks for all the support!