Once Upon A Treadmill: Decisions, Decisions

So I was listening to Foster the People's song "Pumped Up Kicks" when it hit me: I think it's time to invest in some halfway decent running shoes. But first, would somebody please explain to me what the heck the deal is with those shoes that look like they have toes? They're like gloves for the feet. I've seen a few different brands and I've even seen a friend of mine wear them to the gym (I won't mention the name), but I just don't get it. Seriously, they just look uncomfortable, but they're supposed to feel natural. 

But I digress...I need sneakers. My cross-trainers have served me well thus far, but they're starting to feel kind of...well, bulky. I know I ultimately have to keep trying pairs until I find a brand I like, but if anyone has any suggestions (keeping in mind that I'm not only a beginner, but also very stingy with my credit card), please drop some knowledge on me!

While I'm on the subject of "things I need" I also have to do something about the music on my iPod. I've found that - at least for right now - I have to have music blasting in my ears when I run. I know some people are fueled by the rhythmic pounding of their feet against the ground or treadmill, but for me, that sounds just reminds me of how much energy I'm exerting and ultimately seems to make me tired really fast. So drowning it out is a must. Plus music just makes me feel good. There are actually books out there on music psychology and how songs and different beats can affect you physically and mentally.

Right now, I tend to start off with some top 40s-style tunes before I blast the fast, angry music (I can only imagine the expression I must have on my face as I pass other runners while listening to Metallica and Disturbed). But I've been listening to the same songs over and over, so what I wanna know is: what does everyone else listen to? Get out your iPods, people! I want your playlists. I know, I know...what works for one person may not work for another, but I'm just looking for suggestions here.

Progress report: I give myself a 'B'

So, I've had a few good runs and a few so-so runs in the past week-and-a-half. I actually broke from my normal routine and jumped on the treadmill at the gym, in betwen dance/cardio classes. And here's what I learned: their treadmills are way better than mine and I think I get better workouts on them. I'm still using the one in my bedroom, but I think I'll start getting to the gym a half hour before my classes to get in a walk/run on their fancy schmancy equipment whenever I can.

Anyway, so I've given myself a "B" for the past week. Here's why: I didn't run nearly as much as I should've. With the general election less than a week away, plus a packed schedule and a ton of personal responsibilities, I just haven't had much free time. And I've been tired. Really freakin' tired. But on the bright side, the few times I did run, I noticed a definite improvement in my endurance. Woohoo! Oh, and I also experienced more weight loss when I jumped on the scale at Weight Watchers, so there's an added benefit! No clue what this week will hold when I face the scale, but if it's bad, I'll blame it on the candy corn.

Goal for the coming week: To use the walk/runs as stress relief and to run outdoors more (provided there are no more freak snowstorms).

The question I've been asked the most since I started this blog is: Did you sign up for a 5K yet? The answer: um, no. However, some friends of mine are doing a walk/run in December with the Arthritis Foundation. I'm considering tagging along with them. They plan on walking the 5K, but I'm hoping to see how much of it I can actually run...or jog.

On a more personal note, I want to thank everyone who commented on my first blog post. Putting it all out there isn't easy, but I really appreciate all of the feedback, encouragement, Facebook shares and suggestions. Keep it coming...I have a long road ahead of me (wow, I almost made it through the whole blog without a cliche). That's all for now!