Running is NOT a Sexy Sport

Today was a big day for me. It was my first double-digit run in more than six months and a triumphant one at that, because I tried and failed to run 10 miles a couple of weeks ago.

This morning, I thought might be another rough go. I woke up twice with a headache, hit snooze three times before getting out of bed, knocked over a glass of water as I got ready — you get the idea. But as soon as I started the run, I knew it was going to come together.

And it did! I did a fabulous 10 mile run, with an additional 3/4 mile of walking along the way. I completed it in 1:45 total. Then I did this:

Yup, that’s me, in the pool — fully clothed. It felt soooo good to jump in and cool off. At the peak of my run, it was about 84 degrees. which is about 10 degrees cooler than I’m used to. But after 10 miles, I was a sweaty mess.

And now that I’m running between 15-20 miles a week, I am seeing the side effects of my sport. I have a toenail that probably won’t make it through Thanksgiving, my back is in constant, stabbing pain…I have breakouts on my scalp, where I wear a headband during runs, and callouses and peeling skin covering my feet. Sexy, huh?

I just keep telling myself — I am a warrior. I can run 10 miles at a time. The mess my body is in is actually something to be proud of.

Speaking of scalps, my poor man is in pain:

He took off half his scalp while doing pull-ups on our P90X bar — he hit it against one of the screws that holds it in the wall. Poor Lucas!

We soothed our aching bodies with a trip to the brand new Farmers Market at the University of Central Floirda:

But, alas — despite lots of local vendors selling art, jewelry, jellies and more, none of this produce was either local or organic. Boo. So we came up with our own fresh lunch:

Spent the afternoon cleaning, getting ready for a trip to Maine next weekend (we’re planning on taking a tour of a couple of breweries for Lucas’s blog) and watching football. Then made a genius dinner — Spring Rolls!

That’s rice paper, broccoli slaw and shrimp two ways — one, sauteed with soy sauce, honey and garlic; the other made ceviche style with lime and orange juice, garlic and sambal. Spicy and DELISH!

Planning on taking it easy tomorrow, with maybe some yoga for my achy body. I have a BIG week, possibly involving some indoor rock climbing, so I need all the energy I can muster.

What is your next fitness challenge? Is it a certain distance or time, a new strength move, a yoga position, or even just something simple? I’d love to know, so leave me a comment!