Why I'm running

If you're reading this blog, it's because you want to see what happens when an out-of-shape cube dweller like me decides to become a runner and lose 80 lbs.

Bring it on.
Root for me, mock me, encourage me, or get your butt outside and do a little running yourself. I'm here because I want you to keep me honest. I'm here because I'm serious as a heart attack about not having a heart attack by the time I'm 50. I'm here because the road and I have some business to attend to.

I'm becoming a runner.
I've decided to become a runner not by reading about it, or thinking about it, or even hiring a trainer, as nice as that would be. I've decided to become a runner by running. Every night I will run as far as I can, doing run/walk intervals. That's my plan.

Why running?
Because it's cheap, for one thing. No special equipment besides some great shoes. But also because when I run, I can forget about my cubicle and my responsibilities and just be.

Another reason - maybe the most important- is because running is something I'll be able to do with my son. Other sports are great, but they require a team and an opponent and a field and a ball. If we run together, it's just him and me. And I want to do something we can do together.

I don't want to be a sedentary parent who tell my kid to move because he's standing in front of the tv. I want to be healthy and strong, and not to have to buy big-and-tall pants. I want to be out there running and playing and swimming and cheering my son on every step of the way, and I don't want him to worry about my health. I don't want to be fat and slow. And I sure as hell don't want to get winded from just walking up the bleachers.

Goal #1
I'm trying to be in the momet and focus on my pace, my stride length, my breathing, and my intervals. When I run, I'm just thinking about running.

My first big goal is to run a 5k (about 3 miles) without stopping to walk. Right now, I can run one mile without stopping. I'm not sure how long it will take me to get up to speed for the 5k, but there is one almost every weekend where I live, so I'm not too worried about finding one to join.

The Starting Pistol
Today, June 4, 2009, I weigh 270 lbs. Since I'm not anywhere close to seven feet tall, that's a bit much. My goal is to weigh 190 when all this is over. That's 80 lbs. I don't have a set time goal for the weight loss, since for me it's more about the running. Think I can do it?