Sunday, March 7, 2010

Running and walking, why not...

"And the day came when the risk to remain tight in the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom." Anaïs Nin

As often happens when I travel by air, I woke up with swollen glands and a sore throat yesterday morning. Nonetheless, it was so beautiful outside, that we decided to go for our longer run. I knew it might be difficult for me as my lungs are my figurative Achilles' heel (any minor cold symptom has an immediate impact on my lung capacity). We had 9K planned, but we ended up doing 6K (fatigue and time ended up being an issue as we had dinner guests arriving soon). Still, the weather was definitely beautiful (6°C/43°F) and I was able to run without a jacket. Yay!
I did wear a headband, but this is post-run so it was in my hand.
Today, I decided it was probably best that I not run, because I can't afford to wear down my immune system. I still wanted to get some Ks in so I decided to walk. Before I began running, I was a walker. I actually did the Weekend Walk for Breast Cancer in 2005 - 60Ks in two days. Basically, a little more than a half-marathon two days in a row.
This is my celebratory fist pump in front of the Olympic stadium after completing the 60Ks :)
It had been quite a while since I went for a walk, but today I headed to Fort Chambly (8K). No ipod, just me, myself, and my thoughts. It was actually really nice and I was reminded that walking is also a really enjoyable activity. I even took a few pictures along the way.
An old Hydro-Québec dam.
My turn-around point - Fort Chambly (me and my shadow). This is where I took out my apple, which I could eat slowly while walking.
Time-wise, I realize that it would take me a little over 3h30m to walk a half-marathon distance...so I remain hopeful that I can improve on that when I run ;) 
Today reminded me that I enjoy going for long walks sometimes and that when I'm not feeling so well, a nice walk can be an excellent substitute to running. Running is still my drug of choice...but, it's nice to have other options.

 Cheers!

20 comments:

MCM Mama said...

Sounds like a lovely walk!

ajh said...

I love walking and also walked before I began to run. Sounds like a beautiful day there too!

MomRunningFromCancer said...

I love going for a walk. It is a truly enjoyable activity. You are able to enjoy the surroundings, stop and take a picture and if you are in the neighborhood - stop and chat with people.

Great thing to do when running just isn't in the picture.

Meg said...

I like walking with friends or my husband but not alone. The time passes a little too slowly for me. I'm happy that you enjoyed your walk though and I guess you're back to the warm clothes! Have a great week,
meg

Julie said...

Hi Anne,
Way to get out there for a walk:) It looks like you had a gorgeous day too!! Great pictures with plenty of sunshine:) I hope that you had a nice weekend...it is good to have you back!

Melissa said...

Glad you were able to enjoy such a beautiful day!

Beth said...

I love your new picture at the top! I think those walking events are even more difficult than a marathon or half marathon. Walking that many miles for multiple days is hard work! I'm glad you enjoyed your day and hope that you are back to 100% soon.

Lulah said...

The quote you wrote tonight is one of my favorites! I also love the new picture. It hasn't been nice enough here to walk yet, but I am hoping that it will be soon!

Steel Springs said...

I love your pictures! It looks like a beautiful route. I'm glad that you were able to get in such a good walk.

Johann said...

Nice post! I love walking and do so often during longer runs and ultras. I must do it more often as training. Maybe to take some pictures of my routes as well.

Marlene said...

Sounds like a beautiful day for a walk. I've found that since I started running, I have no patience for walks. I'll have to work on that.

Hope you feel better!

kilax said...

What a beautiful walk! I think I should do something like that, just to recharge.

Hope you feel better today!

Jamoosh said...

Absolutely nothing wrong with walking. The important thing is that you got outside and did it smartly!

Jennifer said...

Great new pictures, they look sunny and happy and seem to be a great indicator of your positive outlook! Walking is great; I am amazed at how I have to keep reminding myself that it's a great thing to do!

Miglena said...

wise decision and lovely pictures! I hope your lungs stay healthy. let me know if you want to change our plans for a 10K on Friday, we can always do less if you don't feel 100%.

jenn w/ 2 n's said...

It always feels good to just get out there. Good for you!

Teamarcia said...

Walks are wonderful! Thanks for that reminder!

AM-GoalsfortheWeek! said...

Walks are great! And it's a good reminder for me that I need to do em' more w/my lil' kiddos!

joyRuN said...

Looks like an absolutely gorgeous day for a walk!

Mel-2nd Chances said...

Running as a drug of choice...absolutely! Kudos to you for getting out there!!