Monday, November 29, 2010

8 Weeks Until the New Orleans 1/2 Marathon....

I started running about 3 years ago. This was around the same time CrossFit was introduced to Capital Mixed Martial Arts and Elite Fitness. The first time I watched a CrossFit workout I thought it was an extremely intimidating environment and there was absolutely no way my post-natal, sleep deprived body would endure that type of intensity. What I really wanted was a supportive group of mom friends, so I joined See Mommy Run. At the time socializing, and a nice leisurely stroll with my double wide stroller, was my pace. We would meet at Burke Lake three times a week. I did one year of track in high school, but besides that I had never run more than a couple miles, so I was basically showing up to walk and socialize ONLY. Well, a little peer pressure and some fit, beautiful moms, inspired me. Before I knew it I was running the whole lake. Andrea Vincent, founder of See Mommy Run, along with Carin MacLean, helped me work up the confidence and strength to get around the lake.

Once I began running the lake I then decided to give CrossFit a try. My husband put me through my very first workout. Let me just tell you he is very lucky that I am still married to him. I can't remember what it entailed, but Dr. Heath Bills and I could barely walk! We had to crawl up and down the stairs and I had to lie to people about why I was walking so funny (I was too embarrassed to say that my husband had me do 100 + jumping squats.) My infant was crying in her crib and I had trouble going to get to her. My husband - at the time - did not understand the word, "scale." Now we are now both certified instructors and we laugh about how stupid and dangerous that workout was. Yes, that WAS dangerous! Today we have several incredible MMA and Fitness facilities, and we are addicted to CrossFit! It has changed my life. It is a highly coached environment where real, functional movements are used to help us be fit, grow old while growing strong, achieve health, and confidence. This is what I love modeling to my girls.

Two summers ago some of my best mommy friends and I decided to try a triathlon! We loved it! Our friendships and goals continue to grow. In about 8 weeks we are going to do the Rock N Roll 1/2 marathon in New Orleans! Of course, we also need to train for the drinking and kid free part. Coach John McBrien will be helping me for the next four weeks as I kick off my CrossFit Endurance Program. CrossFit Endurance is about getting stronger to get faster. Every running workout I do will be short, intense, and measurable. I will post my workouts here and keep everyone posted as I train for my first 1/2 marathon!

Thank you for reading!