One of my resolutions for this year is to get in shape, like I mentioned earlier. It may be one of the most popular New Year’s resolutions, and perhaps the resolution most likely to be abandoned with a month, but with more time on my hands, I have some freedom to make it happen.
I’m a fan of technology, so I was excited to see that there’s an Android app that seems to be perfect for what I need to keep me organized and motivated while giving me the ability to evaluate my progress over time. This is what worked for me in other areas of my life, so I think I have a good chance of being successful.
With RunKeeper, I downloaded a routine that should, if I can handle it, have be completing a 5K within seven weeks. After applying the routine to the app on my phone, I run with my phone with guidance about when to slow down or speed up in accordance with the routine.
Like most modern applications, the information can be linked to Facebook; my friends have already seen my progress. One thing missing is the ability to add widgets to websites. I’d like to be able to track my progress here as well.
On my RunKeeper profile, you can see the statistics for each outing, including distance, calories burned, and pace. I’m still slow now, particularly when running in this cold weather, but if I keep it up I’m sure my stats will improve. The current routine I’m following, 5K training for beginners created by Olympian Jeff Galloway, calls for outings consisting of alternating running and walking periods three days each week. I finished my second outing yesterday and I survived. On Saturday I’ll venture outside, perhaps in the snow, for the final outing of the week.
The key for me will be holding myself accountable and not letting myself get lazy. When I post something publicly, it becomes real. If I don’t keep it up, I will feel like a liar. This is the process that has worked for me in other areas of my life, so I’m hoping that this type of self-motivation will work for me.