Up & Running

I'm on day 2 of my online running club workout. Up & Running is a course designed to teach you how to run a 5K. The running loop by my house is just over a 5K. My goal is to be running the whole loop by the end of summer (August 14th). This fall, they will be hosting a 10K running program too. You can sign-up here for email updates.

I've been walking this loop since February. Now, the goal is to RUN. I ran a half marathon in 2007 so it might seem strange that I signed up to do this course.  But, I had lots of friends to run with & I am missing them in New Mexico.  After the race, I really didn't run again & I'm feeling it now. I also don't think that I trained properly for that first long race & my feet paid for my mistakes.  I signed up for this course for accountability, an online support forum & the experience of seasoned runners.  The class seems to be a mix of people of all ages & training levels. The course is designed as 3 workouts a week - very manageable.

After 3 1/2 months, my music was feeling a little stale. If your mp3 player needs a little inspiration try these ideas:

1. Cardio Coach - podcasts with a virtual personal trainer

2. iTunes or Amazon - there are tons of workout mixes for your choosing

3. Run Hundred - get new song recommendations from a music writer

4. Audio Books - my friend Pearl loves listening to audio books as she works out.

5. Mash-ups - Chris Lawhorn of Run Hundred suggests finding DJ mash-up songs if you get bored       listening to popular songs.  Two great places to start are DJ Earworm (radio safe from what I've heard) and Girl Talk (warning, this guy's songs usually start with rap & may not be kid friendly).
6. Jog FM - I haven't tried this out yet, but it looks promising!

Any other suggestions for inspired workout songs?