Progress Update

I wasn’t planning to post a progress update this soon because it’s only been three months since I started running again. But I’m pretty proud of how things are going and wanted to share.

When I first hit the road after years of being inactive, I could barely manage 3k without feeling like my lungs were going to explode. My pace was around 7:37/km and my heart rate shot up to 186 bpm. Every run felt like a death sentence.

But lately, I can finish a 10k at a much faster pace without feeling exhausted at all. It still blows my mind because it wasn’t long ago when I’d be gasping for air at 1k mark.

My performance 3 months ago vs my fastest 10k to date. Still working on lowering my heart rate.

Three months into running, and my life has been changed in so many ways:

First, it took over my social media life. I’m barely on Facebook these days because I spend most of my time stalking athletes on Strava and lurking on running subreddits like: r/PHRunners, r/beginningrunning, r/AdvancedRunning, and r/running. 

Every shopping platform I visit ends up with the same mix in my cart. You'd find neon-colored compression socks, colorful waist belts, magnesium wax and sprays, soft flasks, an Adios Pro 4, and even a Garmin Fenix 8 Solar watch (yes, my broke arse can dream).

Whenever I travel these days, the first thing I look for isn’t the tourist spots. I’m more excited to find good running routes. I'm looking forward to run around a beautiful island soon!

Running has actually helped me perform better in dragon boating. It has improved my stamina, strengthened my quads and glutes (yes, they're used in rowing), and boosted my overall endurance. 

But the best thing that happened to me is my RA pain is pretty much gone. I used to feel it in my joints even with my meds, but now it’s barely there, sometimes none at all. I hope to go on remission where I don't need meds to manage joint inflammation.

Video here.

Anyway, if you're just starting to run and you already feel like quitting, please don't. The first runs will suck. But it gets better, I swear. Three months ago I couldn’t finish a 3k, and now I’m running 10ks regularly without puking my lungs out. 

And if you’ve been thinking about starting, do it. Start slow. Don't compare your pace with others. Join a running community. Sign up for fun runs. And above all, just keep showing up.

That’s all. See you on the road (or on Strava).