Starting 2018 on a high note

Each year, I recommit to my healthy and fitness by completing a running event within the first week on the year. This year I decided to run a 5K (3.1 mile) New Years' Day race in Orlando, Florida. A major difference with this race versus other races I've done is that I've been running consistently for the last couple of months using the Nike Run Club app as a way to train for future running events. I happy to not only complete my first race in 39:51, but I was shocked to receive a third place medal for my age group!Here are some photos from race day.

Moss Park - race location

Warming up in hubby's coat before race

Me with third page age medal

Showing of finisher and age medal on podium

      

Finisher medal and age medal

Working on my fitness/diet and favorite new running podcast

I've been working out at least once a day for years (going to the gym, working out to DVDS/video games at home) however I do realize the importance of switching my exercise routine up every once in a while. Usually I've been using MapMyFitness along with MyFitnessPal but recently I decided it was time for a change. 

Recently, I've been having issues with my right foot and it got so annoying I had to go to the podiatrist. He told me that I need an orthotic  in my shoes as well as change the type of shoes I wear to motion controlled shoes. Since getting the orthotics, my feet feel a million times better and I'm happy I can start running again.

Although I downloaded the Nike Run Club app to my phone in 2011 however it's only recently that I've discovered how great it is especially if you're someone who like to accomplish goals. Since I started using the app this week, I really enjoy that the apps provides correct mileage whether you're running on a treadmill at the gym or outside. Below are the different running achievements I've unlocked so far.

    

I am also finally focusing on my food issues and my tendency to gain weight due to snacking and eating too many sweets during the week. I heard about the "No S Diet" online (www.nosdiet.com) which is a simple diet which works by having no sweets, no seconds, and no snacks except of days that start with an s (such as weekends and special days like holidays and birthdays or sick day.) I like "NoS" because there's no rules, just eat one plate of food and I can still enjoy the occasional vegan sweet treat on the weekends. The No S Diet website is great for support and there's also a Facebook group and an experimental app "No S" calendar app you can download to your phone. Here's a photo of the book that sparked my diet change.

Lastly, as a plus size runner, I am always on the lookout for website or resources which help fellow runner like me. My new favorite running podcast the 300 pounds and running (www.300poundsandrunning.com)which is run by Martinus Evans. Each episode highlights a bigger runner and ask them  about their weight journey as well as what lead them to start running. Listening to these podcasts at work has really inspired me in my running and makes me happy to know that I'm not the only big runner out there.