Training update and snowshoe running

Energized isn't really the word. Lately, when I finish my workouts on the EA Sports Active Personal Trainer, I'm bouncing off the walls with energy - skipping, jumping, rocking out to the music they play in the background. Yesterday I finished my workout, went outside and ran 3 miles, then came back in and worked out my back, arms, and abs again. I'm definitely going to keep going with this workout routine. Hopefully the exercises are evening out any muscle imbalances I had and are improving my general fitness enough to have a positive effect on my running. And even if they're not, they're getting me to exercise, have a good time doing so, and feel great about it.

I got so into the Wii program because snow, ice, and cold temperatures were making it difficult to run outside. The weather has finally given us a break here in my corner of the Northeast, though, and tomorrow I'm going to take advantage and try out snowshoe running. I've signed up for a 1-mile xc snowshoe race, where a company will be on-site to rent snowshoes to those who don't own any for themselves. I thought this would be a great thing to try out, since snowshoes would make it possible for me to run on my favorite rail-trail all winter, but I didn't know if I would like them enough to justify the price (and they are quite pricey). I can't wait to try them out and see what they're like. I took a look at the specs on one brand, and it said that they weighed 2 lbs 13 oz, which seems like an awful lot to have strapped to your feet, but who knows what it will feel like when actually running. I'm really looking forward to trying something so new. I'll be sure to write up a report about it after the race!