Running at the Rec Center

I've been toying with the idea for a while now. Today I finally went into the new recreation center to check it out, and perhaps join. I even wore my running clothes, just in case all went well and I could go for a run right then. After dropping the boys at preschool, I stopped into the rec. center. I had a letter with me to pick up some free recycling bags, so it would not be a wasted trip even if the exercise thing didn't work out. The people at the desk were nice and helpful. I looked around at the equipment, mainly checking out the treadmills. There were 5, and all were in use! I asked some questions about how busy it usually was, and how long one usually had to wait for a treadmill. They reassured me that it was usually not a problem, so I went ahead and signed up. The fee is minimal- $45 for one adult annual membership. By the time I took my purse and stuff to the car and came back in, 3 treadmills were empty. So, I hopped onto one!

Here is something really cool. There are tv screens on each treadmill. They even have cable! I was so lost trying to choose a channel. I have no idea what is on cable, and I really wanted to get started running, so I settled on a cooking show. My run went so well. I went 1.5 miles before taking my first walking break. And, I learned how to make butternut squash coleslaw.

I also saw how to make baked bologna, but it looked disgusting and I didn't trust Emeril for one second when he kept talking about how delicious it was. What sealed the deal was that the lady he called up from the audience to sample it did not even seem to like it much.

I only took 3 brief walking breaks. Before I knew it, I had gone 3.1 miles (5K) in just under 40 minutes. I could get used to this treadmill running. For one thing, it's indoors! Less heat and humidity is a big plus in my book. Also, I could see exactly what speed I was going at all times, which was very helpful for me. And I have to admit, I liked having the tv as a distraction during the run.

I am looking forward to running at the rec. center this summer. If I had not found this, I might not have run at all because the heat is such a big deterrent for me.