so excited I just have to share...

[tinkerbell87512]

Hi everyone I started WW last year and fell off the band wagon. I recently joined back up and am 15lbs under my starting weight. I still need to lose a lot of weight but some how can't stay motivated. So last night myself and a friend decided that we will be entering the 2011 Disney Princess half marathon! I'm wicked excited about this and I feel like this end goal will help me stay on track. Anyone have goals like this and tips they could send my way?!

 

[ohMom]

15lb gone forever, that is fantastic!

 

[crewmatt]

Congrats, I know a few people that are doing the half marathon .

In terms of goals I find people usually stick to it much more if they have a friend to hold them accountable, so another smart move on your part. What you and your friend should also do is set a series of intermediate goals, not focused around weight loss. While weight loss is you're overall goal, it can be a fickle thing and can easily discourage people. I'd sign up for some intermediate events, as going for 14 months (I think thats how long you have till the 2011 princess) can be a daunting prospect. If you have 5k's and 10k's in between you will have some nice milestones along the way. Also you'll be able to measure your progress on your ability to complete them (maybe you only run 2 miles of the first 5k, but you can run all 3 miles of the 2nd one). Even tho in that time period you might have only lost 2 lbs.

Also - the 5 minute rule. I saw a good article in runners world where they said you'll never regret the run you took begrudgingly but will always regret the one you skipped. Now of course take that with a grain of salt, if its 20 degrees and icy out, dont hurt yourself, if you're sick, dont overdo it. But if you're just kinda tired from a long day at work/etc, just be like I'm going to go for a 5 minute run. And run 5 minutes away from your house, if after the 5 minutes you still really feel like you want to stop, turn around and head back. You got at least a 10 minute run in, but more likely you'll be awake and more invigorated after the first 5 minutes and will find continuing isnt a problem.