Tomorrow is my first 10K race and I’m more than nervous. I have been reading about running long distances and the embarrassing problem of having your bowels freak out on you.

Yeah, that. There are even tips on how to ‘go while running.’ Google it if you want. Ick.

That WON’T be happening - there are port-o-potties en route and there is no way I’m going to run any length of race in that manner. I’m not so competitive that I want to win any races that way.

When I ran the 8K of the relay marathon, I was feeling quite unsettled during the 7th and 8th kilometres, and I’m afraid of that happening again. But this time I’m armed with the knowledge that I don’t have to run the whole thing without walking.

I’ve been reading Jeff Galloway’s website and it turns out that even seasoned runners still stop to walk. What a relief!

Taking the time to walk a minute (even through just the water stops) can reduce injury, help you run faster when you are running and Jeff’s tips are aimed to protect yourself for a lifetime of running.

I remember when I first started this journey, how scared I was.

That hasn’t gone away. I keep picking goals that I feel are out of my reach and this 10K tomorrow is exactly that. I think I can do it, but part of me still ‘wants to see if I can.’ Having never before been much of an athlete, I can only assume this is what it is to challenge yourself.

After this 10K tomorrow, my goals are as follows:

August 31 - fit into my bridesmaids dress (yes, this requires more training as I have one more size to lose - ha ha!)
This Fall/Winter - learn to ice skate
October 26 - run the Niagara Falls Half Marathon
Next Mother’s Day - run my first FULL marathon in the Forest City Road Races
Winter 2009 - learn to play ice hockey

I’m sure I’ll pick up a race here and there as I find them.

Can you list some goals that you’re working on and how you’re working toward them? Blog it and link back if it’s a long list - I’d love to watch you succeed!