Local Voices: Runner's Challenge in Aliso Viejo — Hills

The sport of running can be done for fun, for fitness and for a challenge.

I began as a walker, and soon enough that seemed too easy. I then decided I might like to try jogging. I was surprised to discover that I LOVED running. In 2010 I trained for and successfully completed a half-marathon with no injuries. At that point I felt invincible and immediately signed up for the next one.

Through my continued training I developed a persistent knee pain. With as much rest as I could afford, it still would not heal. I was set back several weeks in my training schedule and I finally decided I needed to give it up.

I opted for other forms of fitness to keep in shape...cross-training DVDs, yoga and spinning. But I definitely missed the option of just throwing on my shoes and taking off down the street with the wind in my hair and the headphones cranked up (just loud enough to still be able to hear traffic). 

Now two years later, I find myself cautiously beginning again. Knowing what I know, fearing that knee injury will return, I have started slowly.

I have been following a modified version of the Couch-to-5K training, beginning week one with 1:1 minute jog/walk intervals. I am now up to 5:1 intervals and it's WONDERFUL! I pre-map my route and this week my distance is 4 miles. I usually run on my lunch break, in which ever city my work has me. Depending on the day of the week, that means routes through Irvine, Long Beach or Pasadena.

This week I happened to have a day off from work and planned to run around my home neighborhood for the first time. Let me just say Holy HILLS Batman! My selected route was chosen based solely on distance. I did not take into consideration the hills I would be facing. From Alicia Parkway and Pacific Park, I headed north to Moulton then turned left. Continuing on I turned left on Aliso Viejo Parkway, left on Aliso Creek, and so on around the block. The first three 5-minute run segments were UPHILL … OUCH!

So needless to say, I got a great workout! I was proud of myself for toughing it out. From previous training, I recall a tip that claims occasionally running hills will improve your strength and stamina for distance running. Sounds good to me! With a 10k on the calendar, my goals are small and I am looking forward to continuing to run for fun.

I wish everyone could find some type of fitness activity that they actually enjoy. I am a huge advocate of just getting outside. Take a walk. Or better yet, go for a run! Lots of information can be found online regarding beginner running groups, if you’re interested. Living amongst this hilly community, there are plenty of challenging routes to choose from. See you out there!