My name is Shelly and I suck at running. Over the next few months I am going to tell you all about my progress as I get in shape to run my first half marathon!

Day one:

I was feeling quite inspired and full of energy so I strapped on my iPod and hit the canals of Grand Harbour. I only managed 3.5 kms tonight – I like saying the distance in kms as its more than in miles (which took me about 30 minutes) but James tells me not to push it, baby steps are key. It is all a case of building up the runs and interval training. Tonight I just went for a walk…I was told to stride with purpose with my chest out and my head high.

Day two:

I had a rest day yesterday as James told me to take it nice and slow. Today is also supposed to be quite steady and slow. I walked at a good pace for about 15 minutes and then jogged for one minute, walked for two and then jogged again for two minutes and then walked the rest of the circuit (3.5ks). My knees were hurting a little and I had a bit of an ache in my lower back but on the whole it wasn’t bad for my real first effort and I was feeling pretty good at the end of it, despite having been ravaged by mozzies!

Week one (summary):

I’ve only found the time to do three work-outs this week as life and work has gotten in the way sadly. I will try my very best to focus next week and will ensure that I find time in my day to get out and get running.

I did OK this week. It was mostly walking, as per James’ training schedule, but I did manage a couple of two minute jogs in there…My knees were a bit sore and I was red as a beetroot and very out of breath but I did it and hopefully next time I can manage three minutes and build it up gradually.

My back hasn’t been great this week – I had spinal surgery about two years ago now and had to have a disc removed so I find that I do suffer from lower back pain. When I start my jog I find that it hurts around my lower back and it almost makes me panic and want to stop as I don’t want to cause any injuries. I’m sure the pain is just because I haven’t jogged for such a long time. I think I’m going to try a yoga class to see if the stretching helps.

On the whole, I wish that I had done more this week but I’m glad that I managed to get in a couple of walks / jogs. James keeps telling me that it will come and he reckons that I will be running a mile before too long…