I would like to say that I'm keeping all my New Years Running Resolutions with the intense dedication of a focused athlete but to be honest, my diet could still use some improvement.  Last weekend was my own personal tribute to Buffalo Bleu Kettle Chips (not the type of carbs I should be focused on). 

I am proud to say, however, that I am following up with my stretching goals much better!  I've stayed consistent with my pre-, post- and even during-run stretching.  Also, I've really stayed focused on yoga classes.

Now it wasn't easy at first.  I was intimidated by the yogites as I call them.  Those long, lean, perfectly-composed yoga class-goers that move flawlessly from pose to pose with every hair in place and those really cute beads of sweat as opposed to my steady river of not-so-pretty perspiration flow.  You know the ones (you might possibly be one and if so, I am jealous) - they have the coordinated yoga outfits with matching mat and water bottle.  And the first class I went to was full of them.  I was the fixer-upper Ford in a class full of Porsche’s.  The instructor told me to keep my eyes on my own mat repeatedly but I couldn't - how else was I going to know if I was doing the pose right?? The yogites effortlessly stretched into deep bends and poses; I sheepishly reached for the yoga block.  The yogites walked out stretching gloriously and talking about how good they feel; I walked out wondering how long it's been since I've actually been able to touch my toes.  

But I went back for more.  I tried my hardest.  I almost touched my toes one day.  And then I discovered the Exercise TV On Demand channel on my TV (and they said TV was unhealthy for you!).  In the comfort of my home, I have flourished at the practice of yoga.  And I'm reaping the benefits!  I've noticed more energy in my stride and much less tightness in hamstrings and hip flexors and improved posture even during the end of long runs. 

And I've found a great pre-run yoga stretching routine, courtesy of Runners World!  If you're looking to incorporate yoga stretches into your current regimen, check out the stretches here. 

I hope that everyone else is keeping up with their resolutions! 

Let us know about your progress or your obstacles and remember the year is still young - there's plenty of time to get back on track!!