What To Do When You Don't Feel Like Running

I was all excited to go for a run today after reading through the newest edition of Running Times Magazine. I put on my running clothes, grabbed my hat and out the door I went.  The minute I started running, my legs felt like lead.  Seems my mind was willing but my body wasn't.  Now normally, I'd have just gone back home but after slugging it out for a mile, I decided I would turn my horrible run into a speed day. 

I know what you're thinking:  "A speed day?  I thought you didn't feel like running!  You're going to run faster?"   Actually, yes!  Here's why.  When you run fast, you utilize different muscles.  In fact, the advice I offer people that I coach is just that...If you get tired during a race, run faster.  Even if it's just for a short amount of time.  The majority of the time, you'll find that it helps by giving the  muscle fibers you normally use a break.  I'm not talking an all out sprint...just pick up the pace for a brief amount of time.

I decided that I'd run 2 minutes and walk 2 minutes.  I ended up having a really good run, despite my initial feeling of each leg weighing a ton.  What are your tips and tricks for running when you just don't feel like it?

How to Get Back in Shape

Wow...Work has been crazy and I have not been on here in forever.  Today, I ran into a woman I coached back in 2012.  She was wanting to run her first Marathon and she did!  Seeing her reminded me of all our runs and also that I've really been letting work consume me.  But it's not just work.  Since 2012, I've had a lot of MAJOR life changes.

I've separated from my wife.  Moved into my own apartment.  Filed Chapter 7 Bankruptcy...which could be a blog in itself...and taken on more work responsibilities.  As a result, my running and exercise has totally stalled and I've gained 20 lbs. in about a year.

I'm now 176, and at just 5'7, that's a lot.  I find myself thinking it's too much to fix.  Too hard to run.  Too cold. Too hot.  Too late.  Too early.  Too tired at the end of the day.  Sound familiar? 

I really need to lose this weight.  But rather than the 20 lbs I've gained, I want to get to an even 150 lbs.  So 26 lbs should take me about 12 weeks.  Therefore, by September 29th, 2014, my goal is to weigh 150 lbs and be a lean, mean running machine once again.

My plan is to eat clean.  I thought about Paleo, but in all honesty, I love burgers and pasta too much and I don't mind whole wheat at all.  I know I could lose the weight faster if I went Paleo, but I'm trying to be realistic.  Clean eating isn't that hard of a change for me.  Wheat instead of white, which I do often anyway.  I will also run at least 5 days per week and lift weights on Monday, Wednesday & Friday. 

I will track my progress here to keep myself honest.