After participating in the 5k Saturday, I can't tell you how bad I was shaken to the core at what I perceived as my failure. I went in with high hopes of not only jogging the whole thing but not coming in last. I let my overconfidence of being able to jog 5k one time set me up for disappointment. I told myself I would wait until Wednesday before I tried jogging again to give my body plenty of time to recover. I have been extremely nervous since.

I pulled some muscle in my left outer thigh vacuuming out the vehicle yesterday but it's been just a bit sore. I didn't let that deter me at all. I walked for 5 minutes or so and then was able to jog for 16 blocks before that spot on my thigh started hurting. I did 18 blocks in 18 min. 23 sec. So there fear of failing. I know I'm a jogger at heart!!!! I know what to expect the next time and I know what I really need to work on. That and I need a good pair of shoes that I hope to get this weekend.

Good for you for looking at the upside
1) You're not letting the results upset you out of proportion. You're over it and moving on.
2) You learned from it what you need for your next attempt
3) You realized one factor wasn't you, it was your shoes, and you're doing something about it.
4) You didn't take advantage of an excuse to delay getting back out there.
5) You've already "gotten back on the horse".

Kudos for believing in your own strong self.

Yes, I agree! KUDOS to you for getting out there and trying something new. It takes a lot of courage to take up a new sport (for me it was especially difficult to pick up a new sport while I'm overweight) but you've gone at it with confidence and a level-head and determination.

Getting new, properly fitted running shoes will be a huge step in the right direction. Ill-fitting running shoes often are the source of injuries to knees, hips, ankles, feet, etc. Make sure that you go to a reputable running store where they can perform a gait analysis. It's the most important thing you can do before starting a running regimen, and your body will thank you!

YOu're doing great, Dawnyal! I'm proud of you for doing that 5k, and even after reading your blog and hearing how discouraged you felt, I think it was a great experience for you. That takes guts that a lot of us don't have!

What a fantastic attitude. That will take you far, very far - wherever you want to go in fact.

Wow, no failure! I couldn't jog 5K if they paid me, and I weigh less! Good for you!

Jay

Dawnyal

Congratulations, Dawnyal! Your tenacity and committment is awesome!

As someone who's training for a 5k right now and can barely get past 5 minutes of jogging without thinking I'm going to die, can I just say how awesome you are?

Get those shoes! They help so much, you can't even believe it!

I shared this with you in your blog, but I'll say it here...

You've inspired me to finally get off my butt and exercise! If a working mom of four lively kids can find the time, then surely to goodness I can!!

WTG Jen. I think you'll find yourself much happier in the long run. I know I sure am.

By now you all know I am long in the jaw.

This time one word will do it: INSPIRATIONAL!!