Using Pinterest For Something Useful

Running

This morning I had a (relatively) easy 8 mile run. It was only supposed to be 5 but I lost track somewhere along the way. It was what I consider pretty perfect running conditions; 50 degrees, gloomy, slight breeze and misty. I love running in mist, not rain, but a little mist keeps me cool the whole way.

I ran with music today, something I don’t normally do and came to a realization- I really need a new playlist. I don’t generally run long distances on my own so my play list is only about 2.5 miles long, I had to listen to the same songs 3 times, at least they’re good songs!

I don’t run with music for a few reasons:

1. My dad and I always have plenty to say to each other.
2. Everything I’ve read says that you can’t be as in tune with your body with music in your ears. I agree with this, I run faster and harder, without noticing what my body is trying to tell me.
3. I’m afraid to get hit by a car

I decided to take my trusty iPhone with me today because I can only really entertain myself for 3 miles, I knew I was going to go further than that and making my to-do list in my head just wasn’t going to fill all that time. Plus I have an intense fear of running too far and being stranded, having my phone provides comfort (yes, this has happened to me. Twice.)

I need new music though, suggestions?

Some other stuff

I was starting to think I had an unhealthy addiction to Pinterest, but then I saw that my sister pins way more than I do, so I’m okay with my activity level now. I like to look at the fitness section every morning when I’m laying in bed trying to drag myself  to get breakfast. Some of them are really stupid, and not motivating at all, but there is one that sticks with me and I wish someone had brought this to my attention a long time ago.

I started noticing changes in my body pretty quickly after I began making a valid effort, but other people didn’t see anything or say anything until I lost 30 lbs, and a lot of people that I saw every day didn’t notice until 40 was gone. You can’t depend on affirmations from other people to motivate weight loss, because a lot of work has to go in before getting to that point. It would be nice if people started throwing compliments out there after 5lbs was gone, but it just doesn’t work that way.

Just like you can’t rely on anyone to do the exercise for you, or to moderate your food, you also can’t rely on other people to keep you going, keep you motivated. Honestly, most people don’t care if you’re trying to lose weight and they won’t be going out of their way to tell you how awesome you look. I found this out pretty quick and established some fall backs for myself. The biggest thing I did, and still do, is keep a picture of myself at my heaviest in my purse and on the background of my phone. This way, when I don’t feel like running, or doing another plank, I can look at the picture and know how far I’ve come.

What do you do to keep yourself going? What music should I add to my playlist? Are you on Pinterest?