Beginner’s Pain for Hopeful Gain

It really isn’t working, it’s just not looking good,

I’m trying so much harder than I ever thought I would,

My heart rate pounding faster, with every single step,

Not seeing much improvement, despite my heavy prep.

***

The heavy pound of footfall, trying as a might,

To keep the pace a going, to fight my merry fight,

So very much I’m trying, I just can’t shift this lard,

I aim for better day by day, but believe me, it’s so hard!

***

I started very slowly, just like the books all said,

Building up my speed by day, before I go to bed,

One step, two steps, one step more, I try to catch my breath,

Enjoyment’s what they promised me, this fate is worse than death!

***

I started off just walking, the pace kept slow and steady,

I know that running’s not my thing, I really am not ready,

But as I head for fifty years, fitness I must regain,

And as the adage told by all, there’s no gain without pain.

***

I’m not so keen on going out, alone when darkness falls,

And winter is upon us so my cozy lounge and sofa calls.

With muscle tone a failing, my body slowing down,

I need to work this frame so hard, my sorrows I must drown.

***

I headed for the World Wide Web, an offer so to find,

And waiting for me patiently, a price which blew my mind,

Pre-Christmas sale, whatever next? Discounts of more than half,

I couldn’t pass this deal up, now it’s time to work on thigh and calf!

***

Purchase made, my mind made up, my lifestyle I must change,

But having bought a treadmill, my lounge I must now rearrange,

My living area is so small, there’s barely room for guests,

Having now made up my mind, organisation skills I now must test.

***

The issues came when first unpacked, the bolts and screws and poles,

Mind-blown, hubby’s help on hand to work out what went in which holes.

Gadget was assembled, it took up lots of space,

I had to use it now, I mused, I will increase my pace.

***

So here I am so battle-sore, my feet are feeling worn,

But strangely so much better now, I feel far less forlorn,

Endorphins are a-pumping, I’m feeling so upbeat,

I need to pass positive vibes, right down my legs and to my feet.

***

Already feeling blisters, and have not run that far,

I know the reading tells me that, displayed on the front bar.

However, I am sweating now, drops run down my cheeks,

I cannot see through, sweat-filled eyes, I just can’t bear to peek.

***

It’s only been ten minutes, I’m sure I can do more,

I fear my body, when I stop, will crumble to the floor,

I think it’s been enough for this, my first time on the belt,

My legs tomorrow will give way, the ache it will be felt.

***

However, I will not give in, not now I’ve spent my money,

I’ll entertain the family, they’ll find it rather funny,

I know they’re all behind me, don’t want an unfit mum,

Need me to be running around, don’t want to see me glum.

***

Commitment to my need to learn to run, now I can walk,

Is top of my agenda, of hard work I must never balk,

Will work hard through the winter months, stamina building strong,

In springtime, I’ll be running, on the road to the sound of sweet birdsong.

*****