Up and running

FIRST OF all, belated Happy Mother’s Day greetings to all our beloved mothers, grandmothers and mother-type figures who have come in and out of our lives. We shall always be grateful for your nurturing presence, wise words and smack on the heinie whenever necessary.

The past couple of weeks have been relatively quiet, affording me a little breathing time to download some gig study music, plan my daughter’s birthday party, catch up on my downloaded TV shows (this season’s favorites are “Brothers & Sisters,” “Glee,” “The Good Wife” and “White Collar”) and head to the gym.

<strong>More flexible</strong>

Yes, I have written about the gym before, but it’s only now that I feel I’m hitting some sort of progressive stride. The training is paying off in that I feel stronger and more flexible than when I started, and my clothes are fitting a bit better. I’m also rekindling my relationship with the treadmill by running and walking to boost my stamina.

In the past, I had always dreaded the treadmill—dreaded to the point of hatred. It was boring. My knees would knock together (I blame genetics for this), and looking at myself square in the mirror while running just left a bad taste in my mouth. I felt awkward, like a newborn giraffe that hasn’t found his feet yet. I’m also flatfooted, which means that to this day, I still haven’t found my own feet. (Again, I blame genetics. Proof of this is a horde of Salonga relatives who share this same condition.)

Now at 40, I find myself wanting to know a bit more about running. My trainer says it’s one of the best fitness exercises, not to mention that more than a few celebrities tweet about their track times and distances. So yeah, I’m a bit envious, wanting to achieve something similar.

I started researching—watching YouTube videos on proper technique and reading on high intensity interval training (HIIT). I buy different pairs of shoes: Stability, Motion Control, Extra Cushioning, name it I probably have it. I have arch supports, orthotics and insoles. Then I bought a pair of Vibram FiveFingers (on the advice of my husband who was advised by a friend/barefoot running advocate), as well as Nike Free shoes. Both shoes force the runner to strike with the forefoot or midfoot, purportedly the more proper way to run.

Well, I guess they’re working. My trainer notices that I’m running faster (those shoes are super light), and save for soreness in my legs after the first couple of times, I feel stronger. It probably won’t be too long before I sign up for my first charity fun run. Maybe.

<strong>Music motivates</strong>

Besides finally finding those magical, mystical pairs of shoes, another motivating factor that keeps me feeling like I’m floating on air is music.

I’ve always wondered what the person running next to me is listening to. Is it hard, driving, eardrum blasting rock or Broadway show tunes or bubblegum pop? Is it Britney or Katy, Maroon5 or Justin Bieber?

My playlist keeps changing, depending on what I’m enjoying at the moment, or what I’ve consistently enjoyed over time (and yes I mouth the words a lot). Allow me to share some of the songs with you.

<strong>‘Teenage Dream’</strong>

“Glee” Season 2’s introduction of the Dalton Academy Warblers led by Blaine Anderson (the ever charming and handsome Darren Criss) was a jolt of electricity in an already electric show. The Tufts Beelzebubs’ tight a capella harmonies and Criss’ soulful lead vocals never fail to make me smile.

<strong>‘Like a G6’ and ‘Rocketeer’ (Far East Movement)</strong>

Since these songs seem to allude to fast flying things or people, what better way to get flying on that track or treadmill? Plus Far East Movement is the first all-Asian group to gain major mainstream success. The music is just plain good.

‘Don’t Stop Me Now’ (Queen)

Freddie Mercury, you will never die. Flamboyant, handsome, freakishly talented, electric, amazing, awe-inspiring.

<strong>‘Runaway Baby’ (Bruno Mars)</strong>

Hey, he’s telling the girl in the song to run. In so doing, he’s telling me, too. Mars’ “Doo-Wops & Hooligans” is, from start to finish, a great album. Oh, what a voice this man owns!

<strong>‘Music Again’ (Adam Lambert)</strong>

Musical theater boy done good. This opening salvo from “For Your Entertainment” is happy, well-produced pop. And this guy’s voice is just sick (the good kind).

<strong>‘The Pretender’ (Foo Fighters)</strong>

It starts out quietly, then the guitar and drums start to drive. There’s no way to saunter or stroll when this song comes on. Dave Grohl growling into my headphones makes for added motivation.

<strong>‘Blame It on the Boogie’ (The Jacksons)</strong>

Before “Bad,” “Thriller” and “Off the Wall,” there was The Jacksons, with some of the most infectious dance music ever produced. This one is a classic. “I just can’t control my feet,” sings Michael. In its own joyful way (despite the song being about a boy left behind by a girl), it makes the listener get up and groove.