She Said/She Said

Marie Foster (left) is running in the
Couch to Foot Pursuit program and
Sara Grassmeyer (right) is coaching her up!

Running a 5K is not easy. And running one for the first time can be even more difficult. That’s why the Couch to Foot Pursuit is such a great resource. Beginners have a group to train with, and a great coach to give them tips and encouragement along the way. Marie Foster, who is the Marketing and Events Coordinator for Porter County Parks and Recreation, is taking the plunge and participating in the Couch to Foot Pursuit Program. And C2FP Coach Sara Grassmeyer couldn’t be more excited!

Every week, Sara and Marie will have a conversation via e-mail about the program. They will discuss challenges, give encouragement, and look ahead to the next steps in the journey. So, without further ado, here is our first installment of She Said/She Said!

From: Sara Grassmeyer
Sent: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 9:35 AM
To: Marie Foster
Subject: C2FP

Hey Marie! 

Great job this week! You did such a fantastic job considering how icy and cold it was. Are you sure you’re a first timer? J How are you feeling today? I think it was so great to see everyone at the park on Saturday, especially those with C2FP. I think group training is the way to go and it seems that everyone was successful. Do you think the runs were challenging enough? Maybe we should add time/distance… I don’t know. What will you be doing for your cross-training this week? Maybe we can do a kickboxing class at home?

Sara

From: Marie Foster
Sent: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 9:47 AM
To: Sara Grassmeyer
Subject: RE: C2FP

Hi Sara.

Thank you for getting me off my couch!  I feel much better now that I know that I am doing something for myself.  I had been so busy with my family, that I hardly ever considered my own health.  Honestly, I didn’t know what to expect with this Couch to Foot Pursuit program.  I was afraid that I would be so out of shape that I wouldn’t be able to handle running.  I also expected that my knees were going to hurt - but they didn’t!  The way that you structured the running/walking intervals made me feel more confident. I kept telling myself that anyone can run for a minute.

The ice was a little frustrating because I was afraid that I would slip. I guess it also helped because I didn’t have to push myself as hard because I just had to run slowly due to the ice J. Do you think there is anything that can be done about the ice?

I think the runs were challenging enough because after about halfway, I started feeling sick and wanted to stop.  But I didn’t!  I’m not sure if that’s a good gauge or not.

So for cross-training this week, I am going to dust off my yoga DVD’s and try some yoga.  I also have a couple dumbbells that I will try to use. What do you think? 

Marie

From: Sara Grassmeyer
Sent: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 10:10 AM
To: Marie Foster
Subject: RE: C2FP

Marie -

I think that your cross-training ideas sound fantastic. Yoga is a great supplement to running. When you are in the Warrior series, every muscle you use for running is lengthened and strengthened. Also… Runner’s Pose. HELLO! Be careful with those dumbbells, protect your joints and don’t lock out your elbows and knees. Weightlifting is also a great supplement to a running program. You go girl!

I know, that ice was pretty horrendous. Today at our Administration meeting, I plan to talk to the maintenance crew to ensure that they are taking care of it quickly and efficiently. Maybe they have some ice melt/sand that they can throw on the problem. I will keep everyone posted, I want you all to be safe and successful.

I don’t ever want you to feel sick, but I do want you to listen to your body. If at any point, on any run, you feel overextended or overwhelmed, walk and feel it out. Maybe today’s not the day and you need to stretch, do yoga, lift weights or nothing. You can run tomorrow. Don’t push yourself to a point that you are uncomfortable. You know your body and what it is capable of better than I do, but I want you to consistently get better and be challenged. Go, go, go!

Anyone can run for a minute. They can run for two this week. Enjoy your training, let me know what else you need to stay motivated. Taking care of yourself is the best way to take care of your family.

Sara

From: Marie Foster
Sent: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 10:22 AM
To: Sara Grassmeyer
Subject: RE: C2FP

Thank you, Sara.  It makes it so much easier to try to get back into shape with a trainer who can guide me. 

I will try to lift weights and do yoga this week on my off days. What about running in the rain?  Is there anything that I need to know if it’s sleeting or raining on my running days?

By the way, I went running/walking yesterday and so far it’s been good, but I have to say that I am a little nervous about next week.  I see that I will have to run for 2 minutes and walk for 1.  I hope I am ready for that.

Marie

From: Sara Grassmeyer
Sent: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 10:34 AM
To: Marie Foster
Subject: RE: C2FP

You’re totally ready for it. Try it a few times, take a watch with you and challenge yourself. If after the second interval it just isn’t working, try running for 1:30, walking for 1:30, or even running 1 minute, walking 2 minutes. This is your program, do what feels best for you and your body.

Running in the rain… ugh. The best advice is to wear rain protective clothing so that your body doesn’t get cold/wet and a hat to keep your face dry (also saves my makeup from smearing… I really like to look my best whilst running). Also, run towards the rain/into the wind first, that way, when you head back home, you’ll be down wind/away from the rain. Always a little incentive to finish your workout. As the 10 Tips for Running in the Cold handout indicates, make sure you change from your wet clothing as soon as possible. Remember, if it’s not working or you’re just not feeling the run today, try a treadmill or switch your cross training/rest day to accommodate the weather.

Good Luck this week, let me know how everything goes.

Sara

From: Marie Foster
Sent: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 10:43 AM
To: Sara Grassmeyer
Subject: RE: C2FP

Thanks for the advice. The 10 Tips for Running in the Cold is really helpful.  I’m glad that you gave me one of those packets.

Thanks for all your feedback.  I can’t wait to check in with you next week.

Marie