A new goal (and runner's legs too)....

I'll be the first one to admit that I hate structured exercise.  I've always been the type that would rather get my exercise from working in my garden or trekking a few miles to a beautiful beach where I could sit in a chair and sip a cocktail or two.  I'll also be the first one to admit that when I don't exercise regularly, I am completely and utterly out of shape.  I can go from being toned, fit, and full of energy to a flabby "bum" in a matter of weeks.  This is the case now.  I'm a flabby "bum".  I've mentioned in earlier posts that I injured my back in early spring.  It actually started in February and continued through June.  Since then I've had a couple of small flares up that were as painful.....but luckily, lasted for a much shorter period of time.  Regardless, I went from going to the gym four to five times per week to nothing.  I went from working out on an elliptical machine for an hour at a time and spending quality time on the weight machines to barely being able to walk.  I felt great and then......was in the most excruciating pain I've ever felt.  Since then, I've been too afraid to do anything.  Especially exercise.   

The doctor suggested I get back into the game.  He advised to stay off the elliptical.  Evidently, its a back breaker.  He said walking or running would be a great way to make my back stronger and if I did it slowly enough, I would prevent injury.  So here I am....contemplating running.  Its just something that I've never even considered for exercise.  I don't know why since I've always been envious of runners.  I've always wanted runner's legs.  I've always wanted runner's stamina.  And since I know so many people who run, I've always wanted to know what it was that made them crave it.  My brother runs every day.  My sister in-law runs every day.  I know several people at work who run......every day!  And everyone I talk to about it loves it.  They also tell me the truth.....that until I establish my pace and ability, I will most likely hate it.  But if I stick too it, I will love it entirely.  So here I am....contemplating running. 

I knew I had an old copy of "The Beginning Runner's Handbook" on my library bookshelf that I had read but never followed.  It's a 13 week walking/running program where you work yourself into running.  You are only required to do three sessions per week, with each week increasing your running time.  By the end of the 13 weeks, you should be able to run for an hour or complete a 5K.  I am now on my first week.  And it feels GOOD!  No back pain and more energy already.  Really!  So here I am....contemplating running!