The time has come

The time has come where I can no longer take the lung burning during/after a good run. After finishing my 5K on Saturday in just over 38 minutes I realized that if I had been able to run the whole thing without stopping and gasping for air I might have shaved enough off my time to actually meet the goal I set for myself in finishing a race in 30-35 minutes. Not only did the burn happen during the run, I felt the after effects the whole day. It was not pleasant at all and after 7 months of regular cardio exercise, I think I should be farther along than I am.

So I need to make an appointment with my GP's office. I am almost certain that I have asthma. I'm almost certain that burning lungs at less than a 5mph speed 7 months into running isn't right. I also am pretty sure this is why I hated running when I was younger. I remember this feeling and I didn't understand when I was a young girl, but I do now. It wasn't so much being out of shape (I loved to swim, ride my bike, play kickball & volleyball) as much as it was the "burning lungs syndrome" of asthma. I also remember doing really well in sprints - it was the longer distance stuff that was the bane of my existence. I get it now.

I feel good in the fact that my blood pressure is where it needs to be so I know I won't be getting "the look" from my PA as I did last March when I went in so sick with bronchitis and a hell of a sinus infection. I view that appointment as a "turning point" in my life. I decided on that day that I needed to take control of what was happening to my body and take care of myself. Not only for me, but for the many people who count on me on a daily basis. The change has been slow. I have not lost a ton of weight although I remind myself that that wasn't my number one goal. I have lost about 5 pounds total since the start of this journey. I also still have to push myself some days. I find that if I have a goal (like running a 5k), I am much more likely to work harder. I am thinking that my next goal will be to strengthen my core muscles & arms. I will keep running a few times a week for the cardio benefits, but I want to get serious about toning & building muscle now. I know I am stronger & healthier than I was 7 months ago, but I aim to be even better than I was in my 20's. I want my 40's to be the best time yet because I have a feeling that so many good things are coming my way.

I am proud of myself for pushing through even with the pain & wheezing. I have proven to myself just how strong and how much gumption I really have. Now I just have to ride the wave to where I want to be. It probably won't be easy, but that hasn't scared me yet. I also know I have the BEST cheerleaders in the whole world should I need a pick me up or a reminder of what I am capable of. Life is good...even with asthma.