Just Chillin'

I kind of feel like I've graduated in a way.

I used to carefully put together playlists for my iPod.

Playlists to get me through my runs.  Give me power when I needed it.

Last week however I experienced a shift.

On my training plan I had 3.5 miles.  

Not 6 months ago 3.1 miles was something I worked hard to get to.

I needed those songs to help push me over the walls.

But now .. 3.5 miles is .. dare I say easy?

I didn't need Lady GaGa to push me.

So in a way I feel like I have graduated.

Now I am using my "Chill" playlist to put my mind in a place of relaxation.

Easy breathing.

Slow miles.

Enjoy those miles.

So yesterday I ran my long run with some:

Ray LaMontagne

Damien Rice

Adele

Jack and Ingrid

Just a few of my close friends.

It was nice.

It is a reminder that I'm a runner.

And I don't feel weird calling myself that.

Music or no music?

So I'm working really hard right now on the "ultimate playlist"?

There is so much that goes into it.

I log a LOT of miles on my treadmill.

With four kids at home and a full time job I squeeze my runs in where I can.

Usually it's as soon as I walk in the door from work, before I make dinner.

I don't watch TV .. it just doesn't motivate me.

Don't interpret that as I don't watch TV in general .. just not while on the treadmill.

Music has always been a huge part of my life .. and I find it VERY motivating while running.

When I create a playlist I have to test drive it.

Then I often move songs around, remove them, add them.

See I know for me right now songs 7 and 8 are a tipping point.

They are hard milestones. Once I'm through them I know I'll hit my groove.

With all that being said I am constantly looking for good running songs.

Brace yourself.

I'm about to reveal one of my secret recipes ...

Workout U1  (the U stands for "Ultimate")

Rolling in the Deep, ADELE

Poker Face, Lady GaGa

The Beautiful People, Marilyn Manson

I Gotta Feeling, Black Eyed Peas

Shakin' Hands, Nickelback

Howlin' for You, The Black Keys

Womanizer, Britney Spears

7 Things, Miley Cyrus

Supermassive Black Hole, Muse

Lose Yourself, Eminem (this here is my power song)

I Lovee Rock 'n Roll, Britney Spears

California Love, 2Pac

Pour Some Sugar, Def Leppard

Something In Your Mouth, Nickelback

So What, Pink

Single, Natasha Bedingfield

Have you lost any respect for me??

What power songs get you in the mood?

What pushes you through the tough stuff?

Or do you even listen to music?