Preparation is Key

So how exactly does one prepare themselves to start training to run? That's a good question, right? It's a question that I can honestly so I do not have the answer to. I've managed to point myself in the right direction though. I spent an hour last night at Barnes and Noble flipping through all of the books in the Runners section. There was a large selection of books calling out to me about the "How To's" of running.

I found myself overwhelmed with the vast array of books pertaining to training. There were a few books that caught my eye in particular. The ones that stood out the most, specifically discussed training methods for women. I also enjoyed looking over the ones that had detailed training schedules. The book I purchase must also have clearly illustrated images of what is being expected of me. I narrowed my choice down to three and ended up with one that hits on my main three most valuable points. So what's the name of this book you ask. That's a good question! I would like to be able to provide you with an answer, but of course I am at work and unable to provide you with that information :)

The "book to be named" was not my only purchase at Barnes and Noble last night though. I bought a runner's journal and the latest copy of Runner's World. You laugh, but I left there last night feeling empowered. I had just bought the tools to my success and I carried them to the car with pride.

Taking up running as a hobby seems like such a chore. A daunting task at that! It shouldn't have to be though. I want to be able to use my new interest for running as an outlet. This is to be my escape from my reality riddled life which all too consuming. It doesn't hurt that I expect to have a rocking body from the killer work-outs I'll be getting. My one goal is to finish what I set out to do and that is run AND finish the Baystate Half Marathon. I am sure that this experience will laughable for myself, Michelle, and the people we take down along the way!

I am sure someone, somewhere out there has to be interested in reading our blog! So I beg of you, please leave us training tips and kind words of encouragement.

Shoes, Shoes, Shoes!

So what's the point of running if you don't have a good pair of sneakers to do it in? That's a question I've been asking myself for the last few days as I search for the perfect pair of running shoes. I'm flat footed, so it's hard for me to find a sneakers that meet my picky requirements. I desire a shoe that is light on the foot but has great support and somehow still manages to be pleasing on the eye all the same time. I'd like to think that all running shoes meet this standard, but alas my search has proven me wrong. Last Thursday I discovered just how hard this was as I found myself starring at a wall of shoes in runner's paradise that can be found at Whirlaway Sports. I was there for a good hour mulling over a few pairs. I was annoyed that shoes with good support seem to weigh a tremendous amount more. I ended up leaving the store shoeless in a fit of frustration. I have been going back and fourth now for a couple of days, but I feel that purchasing a lighter pair of sneakers and putting some insoles in them will do the trick just fine. So as I write this post, I think the final conclusion is none other than a custom pair of Nike running shoes. What more could I ask for? Does Nike provide with a light shoe? Yes! Does Nike supply me enough support? Their shoes have reasonable support and the option for insoles is always there! Does Nike make shoes that I'm going to enjoy looking at on my feet? They have customizable shoes, of course they'll be eye appealing. I'm afraid I may trip on something because I am going to paying so much attention to my shoes.

Stay tuned for a picture of the sneaks that will be oh so inspiring in my journey to the Baystate Half Marathon.

First Post!!

Well hello! So this is the combined blog of Nicole and I on our quest to run the Bay State 1/2 Marathon in October!

http://www.baystatemarathon.com/

We're really excited - and inspired by my friend Joanne who is also training, we've decided to blog! It will keep us on track and let us share with friends & family:)

Stay tuned!