Shuffle helps numbers?

OK, I know you are tired of hearing about the Shuffle, but I put it to the test tonight. I've decided (we'll see how long it lasts) that I need to run a 5k every Sunday night. I usually have my best workout on Sunday night because Jason is around and if there is a tragedy, I don't have to stop - Daddy can handle it. I've only attempted a 5k on the treadmill once before (I know it is completely different when attempted outdoors...babysteps), it was right before I was put on 'no exercise' for 2 1/2 weeks due to a procedure done for vertigo.

I'm a numbers person. I know, that may make me a geek, but I like lists and numbers. I keep track of random things, just because. I keep track of my running online. It really helps to look back at what I've done, what my time was and certain conditions (sleep quality, ankle troubles, etc.). I know - geek! I'm also extremely competitive, so this helps me look at what I've done and desire to do better.

Blogging about it also helps me push to do better.

So, tonight I ran/walked a 5k. Here are some numbers that some of you runners could probably laugh at, but for me, they are a huge improvement.

I have run a 13 1/2 minute mile, but my first mile has been around 14:25 consistently. Tonight I didn't want to push too hard because I was going for a 5k, but my first mile was 14:05. When I ran the other 5k (on July 15) my time was 54:50. Tonight my time was 49:05 (almost a 6 minute improvement). I probably could have pushed harder, but I wanted to improve next Sunday night and not get frustrated if I had a slower time - silly, I know!

This is all exciting to me. I was a lot more focused on the goal when I could put on my iPod headphones and not hear all the kids questions/problems.

I still desire to find a good pair of runnings shoes, but I don't know if that really helps your time or just your comfort?

..wonder what the chances are I'll get up for 6AM aerobics...hmmm...?