A Long Journey Starts With A Single Step....

So today is the first day of my "Journey to the Half Marathon" and it started with a single step...a step to Potomac River Running.

I have to say this was a very good and pleasant first step. I was vulnerable from the moment I stepped foot into that store, not knowing ANYTHING about running and realizing that this is one area of my life I am seriously lacking in expertise. <<ENTER CHIP>> and suddenly I feel like this goal is more attainable.

The people at Potomac River Running were SO very helpful in assisting me in getting the correct shoes...and evidently socks (which I never thought would be an important asset....alas I was enlightened).

Chip, the name of the sales associate assisting me was very helpful and encouraging. First they placed me on a treadmill (and had me actually run on it) with a camera attached to the back of it. This helps the sales associates determine if you are turning your feet inward, outward, or if you run normally so they can fit you to a proper shoe. Much to my dismay, I evidently have normal feet, however they are narrow. WHO KNEW!?

I then was given a crash course on the fundamentals of running. Being a teacher I recognized and appreciated the little mental tricks to remember these fundamentals such as "Rib to Hip". This teaches you how to properly move your arms to maximize the effectiveness of your arm motion when running. (Ironically enough you are supposed to hold your hands much like you would when punching someone, thumbs resting on top of your fingers, and never cross them infront of your body) and "RICE" which stands for Relax, Ice, Compress, Elevate which apparently I will be doing for the first month of training when my calf muscles feel like they are either going to explode or disintegrate out of my legs (thanks, Chip for that visual). I also learned the importance of getting running shoes a size larger than normal street shoes.....well if you plan on keeping your toenails... (gross). To always dress for 20 degrees warmer than it actually is (to keep your core body temp. under control). Also that you SHOULD NOT wear cotton clothing/socks when running (something about chaffing....honestly this might have been slightly TOO much info for this initial trip...) So cotton, here is your official notice, you are NOT going to be the fabric of my life during this activity.

But I have to say overall I was entirely reassured that this is a goal within my physical limitations, the key to this whole process, I am told, is mental. MIND OVER MATTER! <<Houston, we may have a problem>> We shall see.....

So after $125.....one pair of good running shoes (might I also add they are super cute) and two pairs of the best quality, wetness wicking, non-cotton, poly-blend socks I am ready to start this "Journey"....now it’s just time for that first step....