Corporate 5k: Ouch

In my experience, the body benefits from exercising both anaerobically in the gym, as well as aerobically, via swimming, running, or cycling. In high school, swimming and water polo were my staple source of aerobic exercise, in addition to a 40 minute anaerobic weightlifting-for-beginners class held the first four months of the school year. Swimming is both aerobic and anaerobic in itself, but that's besides the point.

I made it no secret that I undervalued the importance of cardio throughout my years in college. Never ran, only swam for recreation, and obligingly cycled to and from class if I missed the bus. It was only after my brother Chris talked me into preparing for the Savage Race this past February that I was forced back into the world of aerobic training, 8 years since my last swim meet (man that makes me feel old).

There are several factors that make running an ideal supplemental workout, and I am beginning to see some results. Besides the obvious benefits such as increased endurance, improved breathing, and duller aches in my body, I have lower blood pressure, and better circulation in my extremities.

My first 5k was on February 11, followed shortly by the exhausting yet amazing Savage Race. Today I participated in the Corporate 5k, one of the biggest running event around. Tonight there was a ridiculous turnout of 13,848 participants!! Being among all those running freaks motivates me to continue conditioning, to give my body all the benefits cardio brings to the table while I continue my goal in the gym.

General Dynamics coworkers and I after finishing the 5k.

My brother behind me as we trudged through the 4.5 mile Savage Race.