Gina Jackson Personal Fitness

What the heck is she talking about? It’s my new commitment to myself for the Spring season of my 50th year. Simply 3 miles, 3 days a week for 3 months. It’s my plan of attack, likely ending June 24th, if I make it. Care to join me?

I loved running when I was a few years younger. My legs and body actually felt their best when I used the trail along with Hudson River, literally along the edge of the water. That was probably 6-7 years ago. Now it takes me a good mile to get my mind and body warmed up so that all the joints and muscles are synched in unison, along with a couple of stops along the way for hamstring stretching.

But with the weather change each year, I feel like a new woman every time I tackle the track. As evidenced by my blog entry a few weeks ago.

The problem has been getting sidetracked by work and projects that I never seemed to find the rythym and stride consistently. This year, I am going for it and making my plan public, while inviting anyone who cares to join me in support.

My schedule will be simple (weather permitting, of course). Monday 10:30, Wednesday 10:30, Friday 8:30. I will use the track in Braddock Park for six loops. I am looking for that lull of peace after a good workout by the end of the first 30 days.

Gina Kolata, Health & Fitness Columnist, NYT, wrote an article this week, entitled, “Yes, Running Can Make You High.” She states that

“Every athlete has heard of it, most seem to believe in it and many say they have experienced it. But for years scientists have reserved judgment because no rigorous test confirmed its existence.

Yes, some people reported that they felt so good when they exercised that it was as if they had taken mood-altering drugs. But was that feeling real or just a delusion? And even if it was real, what was the feeling supposed to be, and what caused it?

Some who said they had experienced a runner’s high said it was uncommon. They might feel relaxed or at peace after exercising, but only occasionally did they feel euphoric. Was the calmness itself a runner’s high?”

After Day Two of this week, my heels didn’t yell as loudly as they did the first day. Unfortunately, I may have to take the whole parade inside for the Day Three (tomorrow is forecasted to rain) as I for one will not experience euphoria soaking wet and cold.

Look for me on the track. I’ll be the one smiling when it’s over.