Motivation Monday

I posted this on Facebook over the weekend for the Shrinking Jeans Couch to 5k group I mentor and I thought it bears repeating here.

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I've learned that I often underestimate myself (sometimes to my detriment).

What have you learned about yourself from your fitness journey?

Monday Motivation: the only failure is quitting

Today marks the kick off for the Winter Couch to 5k program I help mentor over at the Sisterhood of the Shrinking Jeans.  I'm very proud of the over 125 women who have committed to becoming runners in 2014. Taking the first step and being willing to get outside of your comfort zone is a huge accomplishment.

However, I've already had some mention they have tried to complete the program in the past but they always "fail".  Or that they've done one workout and it was hard and "This is why I fail".  I'm very bothered by this automatic assumption that they are going to fail.

Here's a newsflash.

This applies to more than just getting through a 9 week C25K program.  Yes, learning how to run is HARD.  Starting any exercise program when you've been sedentary is HARD.  Having the courage to keep going when you feel like giving up is HARD.

If you don't like failing, then don't quit.  You are so much stronger than you realize.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Monday Motivation: Running with the Sisterhood

In case you aren't aware, I also write for the most awesome site - The Sisterhood of the Shrinking Jeans.  I help with their Run with the Sisterhood Facebook page, as well as mentor new runners through a Couch to 5k program.  I absolutely LOVE being a part of this incredible group of ladies.  When Lisa announced the start of the next C25K program yesterday, my phone just about blew up with people joining our group.  It's so exciting!

If you've ever thought you'd like to try running, this is the perfect opportunity.  Join our running community and private Facebook group (private means only members of the group can see your posts) let us help you get started. All you need to do is commit to running 3 times a week and checking in over on Facebook so everyone can cheer you on.  Easy-peasy!

Several times a year, Shrinking Jeans organizes a virtual race.  This spring we are hosting the Shamrock Shuffle 5k/10k to be held Sunday, March 16, 2014.  You can run, walk, run/walk, whatever - and there are even mile options for the kids.  Click here for info on how to register!

Motivation Monday: The Journey

This week marks the beginning of the latest couch to 5k virtual training program over at the Sisterhood of the Shrinking Jeans. Myself, along with my partner in crime Lisa, will be providing encouragement, advice and coaching for the next 9 weeks through our Facebook group. As of this morning, nearly 250 men and women have signed up and a number of them have already checked in with their first runs! Some of them are former runners who are coming back after a break or injury but the vast majority are brand new to running and in many cases, fitness programs in general.



I'm so proud of these men and women who have taken the first step on this journey. The camaraderie and encouragement within the group already is pretty astounding.


If you ever thought you'd like to become a runner, it's not too late. Head over to our Facebook group and get signed up. If you are looking for a great virtual (meaning you can run it anywhere you'd like) 5k or 10k, we have one of those too. Our c25k program will wrap up with the Ghostly Gallop 5k/10k on Oct 29th. You can find more info here.


Are you already a runner? Do you have any advice for my new group of runners? Have you started on this journey and gotten sidelined?

*totally unrelated, but I have a great giveaway going on until Sept 9th for an 8x10 canvas print.  You can find it here.*