Running update: I am a moron
I recently wrote that running might not be for me. Well, I have discovered that I was just being a moron.
My interest in running was piqued again when I heard folks online talking about Zone 2 training:
Zone 2 is a low- to moderate-intensity cardio effort, where you're working hard enough to raise your heart rate, but not so hard that you can't hold a conversation. It's roughly 60-70% of your maximum heart rate.
Now, I'm aware of the issues related to the online proliferation of Zone 2 training, but if you look past the hype, there are real benefits. It may not be the most physically optimal way to exercise, but it has helped a lot of regular folks stay more consistent, avoid injury, and enjoy exercise more.
The other day, I decided to go out for a run and try to stick to Zone 2. I was shocked at how difficult it was to run slowly enough to keep my heart rate down. It was a bit of a "eureka" moment for me: this whole time, I have been going way too fast and way too hard.
This morning, I ran just over 2km, trying again (and failing) to stick to Zone 2. But this approach is freeing: I now have permission to go slowly, at my own pace.
I'm happy about this, because for the longest time I have wanted to include running in my weekly routine. So this might be how it finally happens for me.
In an effort to keep myself accountable, I've started an Exercise Log page where I will track my workouts.