mind over matter, sometimes

Do you ever have days or nights when you are intent on sweating an amazing workout? Run a greater distance than normal, or try a class whose very name humbles with intimidation…Well, last night, I was NOT in such a mood, but I set out to run a few miles on the treadmill to get a cardio fix, despite my body’s attempts at answering the call of our comfy couch. That’s it, just a few miles. I’m tender and achy from a yoga class, cardio-kickboxing DVD, and the unforgiving reverse mode of the elliptical machine followed by countless squats. My own guilt trip is to blame. I’m on a roll, can’t stop now, the beach is breathing down my neck, abs, thighs and bottom.

After the first mile, my right ankle pinched pain. Familiar with the initial awakening of my extremities, I trailed on, watching an episode of Law & Order that I somehow have not seen yet on the generous monitor of distraction. Then the pain climbed its way up so very slightly to my shin. Hum, rather than subsiding, the ache was worsening. Pause. Stretch. Run. Pause. Stretch more. Run. I wanted to continue, but the pain was dictating my moves now. Then, I wondered why. Why had I walked to the gym knowing that I was tired and pained already? Why not take one night off?

The gratification and calm, that’s why. I’m come to rely on the post-workout peace, always returning for more. What to do next? I compromised. For my mind, I completed my time and distance goals by walking the remaining distance on varying high elevations. For my body, I quieted the pain then stretched its release afterward.

How am I this morning? While nibbling on a crisp warm everything bagel, I am contented that I kept on course. Consistency is key, right?