Hello again Running of the Pink Friends:

I think it would be fun to get a few prospective runners to consider getting in shape to jog either the 5K or the 10K this spring at The Running of the Pink at R. M. Stoudt’s on June 6^th. I will tell a little about my struggle to get in shape for the 10K and I hope that some of my process will help you as well.

I am starting this process with two big problems. I was 205 pounds on day one and at 70 years old, that is way too much baggage to haul around on my old knees. I have had success in my distant past with Atkins and exercise combined. While Atkins has valid critics, I have found that I can lose nearly a pound a day if I am steadfast and exercise as well. As I write this, I am down to 187, still too much, but good progress.

Please get medical advice before you launch any diet and follow their advice rather than mine. What I am doing is limiting my carbs to 20 per day. This can be easy by eliminating bread, potatoes and sugar. The reason it works for me is that I don’t need to think. Salad with chicken breast and ranch dressing for lunch, salad and or a lean cut of meat for supper. If you are a sinner, several beers are under 3 carbs and water works even better for you smart ones. While it might be monotonous, winning by a pound a day on the scale is continuous instant gratification.

I have learned to post my progress with exercise openly so that I stay motivated and can’t hide my fall backs. It really helps to have your household buy into your goal. A house filled with ice cream and pizza at 9PM will kill your best intentions.

See you on June 6^th.

Casey