Thursdays I strength train at the gym. I have enough workouts from my time with Kelly that I can pick & choose which one to do. But Wednesday evening Kelly emailed me a special workout to do on Thursday. Oh man! You're killing me Kelly. She said it was shorter than normal since I would be incorporating some sprint work on the elliptical. I really need to read between the lines better. If I had done so I would have read the words "more intense". Yes, the workout was shorter in exercises and sets, but it was way more intense! I made it through by telling myself it would be worth it in the end. Also, as Kelly knows, there is no way I'm going to quit or admit a workout is too tough. At the end, after I'd recovered a bit, I felt awesome. Thank you, Kelly.
Also on Thursday I visited my podiatrist about my ankle. Her conclusion is that I sprained the ankle in the plain where I walk (vs. the plain where I run. Did you know that your foot had these 2 different plains?) She prescribed an anti-inflammatory medicine along with wrapping the ankle, and ice after exercise. She recommended keeping it wrapped all the time for about a week, then wrapping it after running for another 2-3 weeks. She also said that for the next week I should ice my ankle after I run. She explained that I could do any exercise that didn't cause pain but if any movement caused any discomfort I shouldn't do it. That eliminated step ups at the gym and yoga. Boo-hoo. No yoga for about a month.
Friday I went back to the gym and worked out on the elliptical machine for 46 min. I went at a brisk pace (150 strides/min) for 15 minutes then did 10 minutes of sprints followed by 20 minutes at the previous brisk pace. The sprints were 30 sec. as fast as I could go (200+ strides/min), followed by 30 sec. of recovery. My legs were quivering when I stepped off the machine, but I was surprised at how I really felt like I had worked hard.
And now, Saturday's LSR:
Time: 1:12:25
Distance: 6.0 mi.
Pace: 12:04 m/mi
Time of Day: 9 a.m.
Weather: 53°F.
What a great day to run! The sun was shining and there was the tiniest cool breeze. Not a cloud in the sky. The temp was awesome!
But, alas, it was a hard 6 miles. I had 3 or 4 short walks to get through. They were all on hills or inclines so that made me feel a bit better. And another obstacle was that my left hamstring really tightened up on me. I've never had that happen and I'm going to talk to The Coach about how to deal with that on a run. (She's off yachting in the Caribbean right now. Lucky her!) But the good thing is I made it the entire 6 miles AND, I'm looking forward to my next long run which will be Wednesday and 7 miles. (I have to rearrange my training this week due to an ASG Conference next Saturday.)
Showing posts with label Coach. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Coach. Show all posts
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Weekend Runs
Saturday, 03/31
Time: 1:02:12
Distance: 5.31 mi.
Pace: 11:32 m/mi
Time of Day: 7 a.m.
Weather: 52°F.
Oh man, it was a beautiful morning to run. It was cool, the sun was just coming up, the sky had nary a cloud.
I had emailed The Coach earlier in the week asking if it would be ok if I texted her after my runs. I was stuck on running 3-4 miles and needed some accountability. She, of course said yes, but suggested I start writing down my runs here in this blog again. She also suggested I write on my training schedule next to each day's workout how I did. Both excellent suggestions which I have started doing. Then she ended her reply with, "Get out of your HEAD! You can run more than 4 miles. Just do it!" Hence, my 5.31 mile run today. Truly, I love her tough love!!
Sunday, 04/01
Time: 17:47
Distance: 1.6 mi.
Pace: 11:06 m/mi
Time of Day: 10:30 a.m.
Weather: 72°F.
Just a short run today. It was sunny and no breeze. I ran on the school track while The Love walked.
Time: 1:02:12
Distance: 5.31 mi.
Pace: 11:32 m/mi
Time of Day: 7 a.m.
Weather: 52°F.
Oh man, it was a beautiful morning to run. It was cool, the sun was just coming up, the sky had nary a cloud.
I had emailed The Coach earlier in the week asking if it would be ok if I texted her after my runs. I was stuck on running 3-4 miles and needed some accountability. She, of course said yes, but suggested I start writing down my runs here in this blog again. She also suggested I write on my training schedule next to each day's workout how I did. Both excellent suggestions which I have started doing. Then she ended her reply with, "Get out of your HEAD! You can run more than 4 miles. Just do it!" Hence, my 5.31 mile run today. Truly, I love her tough love!!
Sunday, 04/01
Time: 17:47
Distance: 1.6 mi.
Pace: 11:06 m/mi
Time of Day: 10:30 a.m.
Weather: 72°F.
Just a short run today. It was sunny and no breeze. I ran on the school track while The Love walked.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Nike + iPod Sensor
No running or working out today. It's my scheduled rest day. Plus, it's been raining all day, as in thunder, lightening, rain. It's cooled off amazingly. Yesterday 95°F, today it's like 60°F. What a fabulous change!
So yesterday the UPS man left a little package on my front step. The Coach sent me a Nike + iPod Sensor to put in my shoes and track my runs. How cool is that?! She has had a sensor for a couple of years, I guess, and her handsome husband has one also. It came in very handy last Saturday for my big 10-miler. You know, when my Runmeter app failed me and didn't track my mileage correctly.
I feel pretty special and can hardly wait until Friday, my next run, to use it. It's already seated in my shoe just waiting for a chance to show its stuff!
Thank you, Coach!
So yesterday the UPS man left a little package on my front step. The Coach sent me a Nike + iPod Sensor to put in my shoes and track my runs. How cool is that?! She has had a sensor for a couple of years, I guess, and her handsome husband has one also. It came in very handy last Saturday for my big 10-miler. You know, when my Runmeter app failed me and didn't track my mileage correctly.
I feel pretty special and can hardly wait until Friday, my next run, to use it. It's already seated in my shoe just waiting for a chance to show its stuff!
Thank you, Coach!
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Possessed and Pegasus Wins
Time: 35:07
Distance: 3.1 mi.
Pace: m/mi
Time of Day: 6:23 a.m.
Weather: 65°F. humid. It's going to be hot today.
My iPhone had problems this morning so my time & distance are approximate. I haven't had any trouble running with my iPhone since I upgraded to the iPhone 4. But this makes 2 times in a row I've had problems.
Last Saturday Runmeter didn't track all the miles I ran. I thought it was because part of the trail had tree cover. I just assumed the app couldn't get a good GPS reading. The problem today wasn't like that though. I was down to less than a mile to go on my run and the app "stopped", then the music started playing more than 1 song a time, the voice control app came on, then the music switched to an entirely different playlist, still playing songs really fast and overlapping each other. Seriously, it was like the phone was possessed. The music was weird, the voice control app kept starting and stopping, my Runmeter app kept starting and stopping. Finally, I just took of my headphones so I didn't hear all the weird noises. Once I stopped running I restarted my phone and that seemed to fix things.
Next subject…a couple of months ago when my feet were really hurting all the time, I bought a new pair of running shoes. I thought that maybe that was the cause of the foot pain. It wasn't. Things are better now. That's a different story.
But anyway I went to the running store to buy another pair of Nike Vomero's. That is what I started running in and have just continued to purchase them. They felt great except for the spot that always created a callous on my right foot. I figured it was just something runners had. But this shopping trip the store didn't have any Vomero's in stock. None of their other stores had any either so I bought a Nike Pegasus shoe.
Now, I know nothing about running shoes. I read the reviews but I don't follow the subject. I figure that's what the people in the running store are for. They should know which shoes will fit me and meet my needs. The Coach has worn the same style of Nike shoe for years. She doesn't even try them on anymore. That is what I hoped would develop with me and Vomero's. But it wasn't to be. So I was a bit apprehensive about switching model of shoes. However, I was pleasantly surprised with how the Pegasus felt when I ran.
When I figured out that the running shoes weren't the cause of my foot problems I decided to use the Vomero's for short runs and save the Pegasus shoes for long runs. Each shoe has it's own distinct fit and feeling but, I figured it would extend the life of my running shoes by switching back and forth. That was my thinking until my 10-miler last Saturday. I wore the Pegasus shoes and I noticed after the run that I didn't have the usual tender spot on my foot; no blister was forming. Wow that was awesome!
On today's short 3 miles I switched back to the Vomero's and sure enough, after just 3 miles I have the same red, sore spot. The callous didn't get a blister, but the area is tender. So I am a convert. Pegasus wins.
Distance: 3.1 mi.
Pace: m/mi
Time of Day: 6:23 a.m.
Weather: 65°F. humid. It's going to be hot today.
My iPhone had problems this morning so my time & distance are approximate. I haven't had any trouble running with my iPhone since I upgraded to the iPhone 4. But this makes 2 times in a row I've had problems.
Last Saturday Runmeter didn't track all the miles I ran. I thought it was because part of the trail had tree cover. I just assumed the app couldn't get a good GPS reading. The problem today wasn't like that though. I was down to less than a mile to go on my run and the app "stopped", then the music started playing more than 1 song a time, the voice control app came on, then the music switched to an entirely different playlist, still playing songs really fast and overlapping each other. Seriously, it was like the phone was possessed. The music was weird, the voice control app kept starting and stopping, my Runmeter app kept starting and stopping. Finally, I just took of my headphones so I didn't hear all the weird noises. Once I stopped running I restarted my phone and that seemed to fix things.
Next subject…a couple of months ago when my feet were really hurting all the time, I bought a new pair of running shoes. I thought that maybe that was the cause of the foot pain. It wasn't. Things are better now. That's a different story.
But anyway I went to the running store to buy another pair of Nike Vomero's. That is what I started running in and have just continued to purchase them. They felt great except for the spot that always created a callous on my right foot. I figured it was just something runners had. But this shopping trip the store didn't have any Vomero's in stock. None of their other stores had any either so I bought a Nike Pegasus shoe.
Now, I know nothing about running shoes. I read the reviews but I don't follow the subject. I figure that's what the people in the running store are for. They should know which shoes will fit me and meet my needs. The Coach has worn the same style of Nike shoe for years. She doesn't even try them on anymore. That is what I hoped would develop with me and Vomero's. But it wasn't to be. So I was a bit apprehensive about switching model of shoes. However, I was pleasantly surprised with how the Pegasus felt when I ran.
When I figured out that the running shoes weren't the cause of my foot problems I decided to use the Vomero's for short runs and save the Pegasus shoes for long runs. Each shoe has it's own distinct fit and feeling but, I figured it would extend the life of my running shoes by switching back and forth. That was my thinking until my 10-miler last Saturday. I wore the Pegasus shoes and I noticed after the run that I didn't have the usual tender spot on my foot; no blister was forming. Wow that was awesome!
On today's short 3 miles I switched back to the Vomero's and sure enough, after just 3 miles I have the same red, sore spot. The callous didn't get a blister, but the area is tender. So I am a convert. Pegasus wins.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Amazing Run!
Time: 1:54:21
Distance: 10 mi.
Pace: 11:25 m/mi
Time of Day: 2 p.m.
Weather: 76°F. Sunshiny, slight breeze
Did you see the pace? 11:25 m/mi. Did you see that? Isn't that awesome!!!!!!! I have no clue where it came from, but I had an amazing run!
This past weekend I was in Chicago visiting The Coach (and grandkids). Saturday afternoon after soccer we headed out for my long run. I was apprehensive about the distance. I hadn't run 10 miles in a really long time. I left the headphones at home and told The Coach she would have to entertain me. The cool thing about running with her is that because she is in much better shape than me, she can talk while we run and I just listen and make an occasional comment. Cool! Thank you, Coach!!!
She led me down this trail, past a carnival tearing down, several parks, beside the train tracks and then back the same way. It was so awesome! The Coach kept offering to slow down but I just got in this groove and kept going. I'm sure it helped that the entire distance was flat as a pancake, but still…I had an amazing run!
I am really psyched now. I am really looking forward to the 1/2 marathon in October.
I didn't realize I hadn't posted my runs last week. I have run since 9/1. None of them were as a amazing as this run, but here's a brief recap.
9/8: 5.08 miles in 1:02:01. JB Trail with lots of hills.
9/6: 3.12 miles in 37:00 on Telegraph Rd.
9/4: 7.93 miles in 1:40:49 on Grants Farm Trail
9/3: 3.05 miles in 36:39 on Telegraph Rd.
I've also been working out at the gym with my personal trainer. I believe I can safely say all that work is really paying off in my running. Thank you Kelly!
Distance: 10 mi.
Pace: 11:25 m/mi
Time of Day: 2 p.m.
Weather: 76°F. Sunshiny, slight breeze
Did you see the pace? 11:25 m/mi. Did you see that? Isn't that awesome!!!!!!! I have no clue where it came from, but I had an amazing run!
This past weekend I was in Chicago visiting The Coach (and grandkids). Saturday afternoon after soccer we headed out for my long run. I was apprehensive about the distance. I hadn't run 10 miles in a really long time. I left the headphones at home and told The Coach she would have to entertain me. The cool thing about running with her is that because she is in much better shape than me, she can talk while we run and I just listen and make an occasional comment. Cool! Thank you, Coach!!!
She led me down this trail, past a carnival tearing down, several parks, beside the train tracks and then back the same way. It was so awesome! The Coach kept offering to slow down but I just got in this groove and kept going. I'm sure it helped that the entire distance was flat as a pancake, but still…I had an amazing run!
I am really psyched now. I am really looking forward to the 1/2 marathon in October.
I didn't realize I hadn't posted my runs last week. I have run since 9/1. None of them were as a amazing as this run, but here's a brief recap.
9/8: 5.08 miles in 1:02:01. JB Trail with lots of hills.
9/6: 3.12 miles in 37:00 on Telegraph Rd.
9/4: 7.93 miles in 1:40:49 on Grants Farm Trail
9/3: 3.05 miles in 36:39 on Telegraph Rd.
I've also been working out at the gym with my personal trainer. I believe I can safely say all that work is really paying off in my running. Thank you Kelly!
Sunday, August 28, 2011
A Fabulous Run!
Time: 1:29:44
Distance: 7.0 mi.
Pace: 12:49 m/mi
Time of Day: 6:57 a.m.
Weather: 65°F.
Today's run was awesome! The weather was great. Oh how I love even slightly cooler weather. I am just not a hot weather runner. But today, the temperature was in the 60's, the sky was bright blue, a light wind. Absolutely perfect conditions for a run. And run I did. I was scheduled for 6 miles but I felt great and decided to try a variation on my neighborhood 6-mile route. I didn't realize that little detour would add an extra mile to the route. But it was a great variation and I ran the complete route. I don't ever remember running longer than I was scheduled to. This was an accomplishment in a couple of ways.
First, I can physically run more distance than I thought I could. Second, I can run longer & further than I thought I could. I am a very emotional (Is that the right way to say it?) runner. The Coach frequently reminds me to "get out of my head and just run". So to run farther than the training schedule says is a big deal for me. I have to remember how great today's run felt and use it as a springboard for better running.
Distance: 7.0 mi.
Pace: 12:49 m/mi
Time of Day: 6:57 a.m.
Weather: 65°F.
Today's run was awesome! The weather was great. Oh how I love even slightly cooler weather. I am just not a hot weather runner. But today, the temperature was in the 60's, the sky was bright blue, a light wind. Absolutely perfect conditions for a run. And run I did. I was scheduled for 6 miles but I felt great and decided to try a variation on my neighborhood 6-mile route. I didn't realize that little detour would add an extra mile to the route. But it was a great variation and I ran the complete route. I don't ever remember running longer than I was scheduled to. This was an accomplishment in a couple of ways.
First, I can physically run more distance than I thought I could. Second, I can run longer & further than I thought I could. I am a very emotional (Is that the right way to say it?) runner. The Coach frequently reminds me to "get out of my head and just run". So to run farther than the training schedule says is a big deal for me. I have to remember how great today's run felt and use it as a springboard for better running.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
I'm Feeling Good About Me
How does Jennifer Hudson sing it on those Weight Watchers commercials? "It's a new day; it's a new dawn, And I'm feeling good." I feel good about me today!
I signed up for 10 sessions with a personal trainer at my gym. I want to work on my core. It's very soft and flabby and I just really dislike it all the time. I know that it's possible to have great abs under a thick layer of fat. So I'm working on the fat issue by following Weight Watchers new PointsPlus program. I rejoined a month ago and I've lost 6.2 lbs.
I was talking to Coach Jeni today and told her that for the first time in my life I am in a place where I am doing this for me and my health. Always before there has been some external motivation, or in some cases no motivation, only guilt. I believe I got to this point by asking a simple question of Jeni in November 2009. "Do you think I could run a half marathon?"
That simple, timid question on an early morning walk became a journey to a more healthy me. While I want to trim down and tone up my mid-section so it looks better, I am primarily motivated by a desire to improve my health. I have experienced the huge positive impact running has had in my life and now I want to experience the positive impact of even better physical and mental health.
It continues to amaze me how running is such a positive influence in my life. Although I struggled last summer and really slacked off during the long, bitterly cold winter, I have never considered not running on a regular basis. Running is one of the top 5 best things I have ever done to improve my life.
So I eagerly wait to hear when my first training session is going to be. I know I will feel sore after those first few workouts, but oh, the end result is going to be awesome!
I signed up for 10 sessions with a personal trainer at my gym. I want to work on my core. It's very soft and flabby and I just really dislike it all the time. I know that it's possible to have great abs under a thick layer of fat. So I'm working on the fat issue by following Weight Watchers new PointsPlus program. I rejoined a month ago and I've lost 6.2 lbs.
I was talking to Coach Jeni today and told her that for the first time in my life I am in a place where I am doing this for me and my health. Always before there has been some external motivation, or in some cases no motivation, only guilt. I believe I got to this point by asking a simple question of Jeni in November 2009. "Do you think I could run a half marathon?"
That simple, timid question on an early morning walk became a journey to a more healthy me. While I want to trim down and tone up my mid-section so it looks better, I am primarily motivated by a desire to improve my health. I have experienced the huge positive impact running has had in my life and now I want to experience the positive impact of even better physical and mental health.
It continues to amaze me how running is such a positive influence in my life. Although I struggled last summer and really slacked off during the long, bitterly cold winter, I have never considered not running on a regular basis. Running is one of the top 5 best things I have ever done to improve my life.
So I eagerly wait to hear when my first training session is going to be. I know I will feel sore after those first few workouts, but oh, the end result is going to be awesome!
Monday, August 23, 2010
Time To Push The Restart Button
Saturday, 08/21/10
Distance: 2.75 mi.
Time: 36.22 min.
Pace: 13:13 (m/mi)
Time of day: 7:50 a.m.
Weather: 70°F, cloudy, rainy, humid
My goal was to run 4 mi. today but I didn't. I managed to get in the 2.75 miles before I just gave up and walked home. Between the lack of consistent running and the humidity and the polish chipping on my toe nails and the scratch on my arm--well I just gave up. But I did some thinking as I power walked home. And I decided I would go back and start again. I would print off the first training schedule Coach Jeni provided me and rebuild my base and quit worrying about performance.
Distance: 2.75 mi.
Time: 36.22 min.
Pace: 13:13 (m/mi)
Time of day: 7:50 a.m.
Weather: 70°F, cloudy, rainy, humid
My goal was to run 4 mi. today but I didn't. I managed to get in the 2.75 miles before I just gave up and walked home. Between the lack of consistent running and the humidity and the polish chipping on my toe nails and the scratch on my arm--well I just gave up. But I did some thinking as I power walked home. And I decided I would go back and start again. I would print off the first training schedule Coach Jeni provided me and rebuild my base and quit worrying about performance.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
A New Goal and A New Training Schedule
Time: 38:19 min.
Distance: 3.09 mi.
Time of day: 6:50 a.m.
Pace: 12:24 m/mi.
Temperature: 76°F. Humid, overcast, getting ready to rain. (In fact, it started pouring down rain as we closed the garage door after running.)
I have decided to run the Lewis & Clark Half Marathon on 10/3/10. And, with that race now on my calendar, I worked out a training schedule yesterday. Because I am still a beginner runner (as Coach Jeni occasionally has to remind me) I had her review my schedule and make appropriate changes.
So my actual goal is to finish this half marathon around 2h 45m. That will shave about 10 min. off my Go!St. Louis race time. Coupled with the warm weather and the need for speed, I have my work cut out for me.
So where did this decision come from?
In the goody bag from the Go!St. Louis race was a postcard about the Lewis & Clark race. I had laid it on my workstation back in April as a reminder that maybe I would want to run in the race. I was cleaning off my workstation last week and picked it up. "Hmmm," I thought. I mentioned the possibility to Coach Jeni and she thought it was a great idea—an early fall race would be a great reason to keep running all summer.
Yesterday I was going through a stack of CDs & DVDs I had accumulated around my computer and found one I had received back in January when I bought my running shoes. It was a program that originally aired on PBS about training for and running the GO!St. Louis Marathon. The program follows 3 or 4 runners training for the half and the marathon. It was so inspirational! It brought tears to my eyes a couple of times. It reminded me why I started running in the first place and how good I feel when I run consistently.
So that did it. I immediately worked on the training schedule and sent it off to Coach Jeni. It officially starts Monday, 06/21, but I got back out there today and will run again Saturday and Sunday. I'm so excited!
Distance: 3.09 mi.
Time of day: 6:50 a.m.
Pace: 12:24 m/mi.
Temperature: 76°F. Humid, overcast, getting ready to rain. (In fact, it started pouring down rain as we closed the garage door after running.)
I have decided to run the Lewis & Clark Half Marathon on 10/3/10. And, with that race now on my calendar, I worked out a training schedule yesterday. Because I am still a beginner runner (as Coach Jeni occasionally has to remind me) I had her review my schedule and make appropriate changes.
So my actual goal is to finish this half marathon around 2h 45m. That will shave about 10 min. off my Go!St. Louis race time. Coupled with the warm weather and the need for speed, I have my work cut out for me.
So where did this decision come from?
In the goody bag from the Go!St. Louis race was a postcard about the Lewis & Clark race. I had laid it on my workstation back in April as a reminder that maybe I would want to run in the race. I was cleaning off my workstation last week and picked it up. "Hmmm," I thought. I mentioned the possibility to Coach Jeni and she thought it was a great idea—an early fall race would be a great reason to keep running all summer.
Yesterday I was going through a stack of CDs & DVDs I had accumulated around my computer and found one I had received back in January when I bought my running shoes. It was a program that originally aired on PBS about training for and running the GO!St. Louis Marathon. The program follows 3 or 4 runners training for the half and the marathon. It was so inspirational! It brought tears to my eyes a couple of times. It reminded me why I started running in the first place and how good I feel when I run consistently.
So that did it. I immediately worked on the training schedule and sent it off to Coach Jeni. It officially starts Monday, 06/21, but I got back out there today and will run again Saturday and Sunday. I'm so excited!
Saturday, May 22, 2010
4 Days Off = Oh My Gosh!
Friday Stats
Distance: 3.78 mi.
Time: 48:14 min.
Pace: 12:46 min/mi
Time of day: 7:05 p.m.
Temperature: 60-ish, overcast, cool; a pretty great evening for running.
Before I get to the running details, I got my nails done Friday evening and then ran home from the nail shop. This wasn't exactly on my list of routes to run, but The Love's car was in getting an oil change and he had to play poker, so I told him to drop me off at the nail shop and I would run home. And I did!
Now for the actual running. Coach Jeni told me that if I didnt get to run this week (while traveliing) I would notice a significant decrease in my level of fitness. Boy was she right! Running Friday night was hard. I had to push myself to not walk. There was lots of Duffy Moon reminders.
It felt great to get out and move again!
Now how do I get back into my training schedule?
A conversation with Coach Jeni this morning offered 2 options to return to focused training. The first option is to walk/run 13 miles today. Run 2 miles, walk 1 mile. This will get in the distance on the schedule. It will also give me an idea of what it is like to utilize a run/walk strategy for my upcoming race. The 2nd option would be to pick a distance I felt was challenging but still doable and run that, then just return to the training schedule tomorrow.
I opted for the first option. Part of our conversation today was that the North Shore race while it will be my 2nd half-marathon, it will be a completely new race. It will be a new course, a more hilly course, much warmer tempertures and I'll be running solo. The only thing the races have in common is the distance.
Distance: 3.78 mi.
Time: 48:14 min.
Pace: 12:46 min/mi
Time of day: 7:05 p.m.
Temperature: 60-ish, overcast, cool; a pretty great evening for running.
Before I get to the running details, I got my nails done Friday evening and then ran home from the nail shop. This wasn't exactly on my list of routes to run, but The Love's car was in getting an oil change and he had to play poker, so I told him to drop me off at the nail shop and I would run home. And I did!
Now for the actual running. Coach Jeni told me that if I didnt get to run this week (while traveliing) I would notice a significant decrease in my level of fitness. Boy was she right! Running Friday night was hard. I had to push myself to not walk. There was lots of Duffy Moon reminders.
It felt great to get out and move again!
Now how do I get back into my training schedule?
A conversation with Coach Jeni this morning offered 2 options to return to focused training. The first option is to walk/run 13 miles today. Run 2 miles, walk 1 mile. This will get in the distance on the schedule. It will also give me an idea of what it is like to utilize a run/walk strategy for my upcoming race. The 2nd option would be to pick a distance I felt was challenging but still doable and run that, then just return to the training schedule tomorrow.
I opted for the first option. Part of our conversation today was that the North Shore race while it will be my 2nd half-marathon, it will be a completely new race. It will be a new course, a more hilly course, much warmer tempertures and I'll be running solo. The only thing the races have in common is the distance.
Monday, May 17, 2010
A Long Talk With The Coach
I had a long talk with The Coach Sunday evening. I was feeling bad about my earlier run. And, with a travel schedule that will disrupt my running schedule again, I wanted to get her advice on how to proceed. As usual she was understanding, uplifting and practical.
The first thing she said was that Monday should be a fun run, if I run at all. Decide in the morning how I feel and if I don't feel like running, then don't. If I do feel like running, then just start out and run for only as long as it is pleasurable. Don't go out with any time or distance goal. Just run for the joy of it.
She also reminded me that I am a beginner runner. I have not built up a great deal of endurance or stamina and running the distances I did in the time frame I did really taxed my body. Don't beat myself up about a bad run, just accept reality and move on. Even elite runners have bad runs.
So here I am in my hotel room Monday evening. I didn't run this morning before leaving home because it was raining. I am exhausted after my day today. Making myself go get on the hotel treadmill sounds like toture. I am going to wait until tomorrow to run. I believe I will be at my hotel early enough that I can get on the treadmill before dinner.
The first thing she said was that Monday should be a fun run, if I run at all. Decide in the morning how I feel and if I don't feel like running, then don't. If I do feel like running, then just start out and run for only as long as it is pleasurable. Don't go out with any time or distance goal. Just run for the joy of it.
She also reminded me that I am a beginner runner. I have not built up a great deal of endurance or stamina and running the distances I did in the time frame I did really taxed my body. Don't beat myself up about a bad run, just accept reality and move on. Even elite runners have bad runs.
So here I am in my hotel room Monday evening. I didn't run this morning before leaving home because it was raining. I am exhausted after my day today. Making myself go get on the hotel treadmill sounds like toture. I am going to wait until tomorrow to run. I believe I will be at my hotel early enough that I can get on the treadmill before dinner.
A Bad Run
Sunday, 05/17
Distance: 8.0 mi.
Time: 1:49:56
Pace: 13:45 min/mi
Time of day: 10:25 a.m.
Temperature: 60F, cloudy, cool, rainy
Today's run was awful! Here is a list of what went wrong:
Distance: 8.0 mi.
Time: 1:49:56
Pace: 13:45 min/mi
Time of day: 10:25 a.m.
Temperature: 60F, cloudy, cool, rainy
Today's run was awful! Here is a list of what went wrong:
- I ran Saturday evening at 5:30 p.m. and turned around and ran at 10:25 a.m. I had a situation of avoiding rain and hooking up with The Chef on business. The Chef lives very close to the trail I use for long runs so I didn't want to go to her house, come home, and then drive back.
- I forgot to carry my water. I realized this about 1.5 miles into the run.
- I was tired. I ran 12+ miles in the last 48 hours before heading out on this run.
- Again, my running app malfunctioned.
Crazy Schedules
A crazy travel schedule over the next 2 weeks has my running training schedule all mixed up. So here's a recap.
Monday, 5/10
Distance: 6.37 mi.
Time: 1:19:59
Pace: 12:33 min/mi
Time of Day: 12:30 p.m.
Temperatue: 51F cloudy & overcast
Cloudy & overcast will be a common theme for the next couple of weeks. What happened to the whole "Aprl showers bring May flowers" thing? I am so tired or "cloudy and overcast".
Today's run was pretty good. I felt strong running at a 12:33 pace. My goal for the North Shore race is going to be a 13:00 min/mile.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
I did strength training on Tuesday & Thursday, but I'm miss the 1 mile warm up runs. Wednesday was a rest day.
Friday, 05/14
Distance: 5.12 mi.
Time: 1:03:38
Pace: 12:26 min/mi
Time of day: 4:30 p.m.
Temperature: 60-ish. Sunny, warm, slightly humid
Finally The Love's car was repaired and we went to Chicago to pick it up. I ran a trail near Coach Jeni's house. It was a pretty trail, muddy from recent rains, but still very nice.
Saturday, 05/15
Distance: 6.5 mi.
Time: 1:22:23
Pace: 12:40 min/mi
Time of day: 5:30 p.m.
Temperature: 60F, cloudy, cool, rainy
I ran today after spending 6 hours in the car which is what I did yesterday. But, and I hate to admit this, my running app malfunctioned in a big way and that throws me off. If the app just quits playing the music then I can adjust to that. But when it keeps switching off and on and playing the music in fast forward and then shuts off completely and then I have to restart the running app and then it stops and starts again--well, it just makes me mad and screws me up.
Monday, 5/10
Distance: 6.37 mi.
Time: 1:19:59
Pace: 12:33 min/mi
Time of Day: 12:30 p.m.
Temperatue: 51F cloudy & overcast
Cloudy & overcast will be a common theme for the next couple of weeks. What happened to the whole "Aprl showers bring May flowers" thing? I am so tired or "cloudy and overcast".
Today's run was pretty good. I felt strong running at a 12:33 pace. My goal for the North Shore race is going to be a 13:00 min/mile.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
I did strength training on Tuesday & Thursday, but I'm miss the 1 mile warm up runs. Wednesday was a rest day.
Friday, 05/14
Distance: 5.12 mi.
Time: 1:03:38
Pace: 12:26 min/mi
Time of day: 4:30 p.m.
Temperature: 60-ish. Sunny, warm, slightly humid
Finally The Love's car was repaired and we went to Chicago to pick it up. I ran a trail near Coach Jeni's house. It was a pretty trail, muddy from recent rains, but still very nice.
Saturday, 05/15
Distance: 6.5 mi.
Time: 1:22:23
Pace: 12:40 min/mi
Time of day: 5:30 p.m.
Temperature: 60F, cloudy, cool, rainy
I ran today after spending 6 hours in the car which is what I did yesterday. But, and I hate to admit this, my running app malfunctioned in a big way and that throws me off. If the app just quits playing the music then I can adjust to that. But when it keeps switching off and on and playing the music in fast forward and then shuts off completely and then I have to restart the running app and then it stops and starts again--well, it just makes me mad and screws me up.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Caught Up At Last
This is a recap of today's workout, actually posted today!
So the whole car repair issue has played a little havoc with my training schedule this week. I ran yesterday and strength trained today.
Another change is in the offing with regard to strength training. The Love and I have agreed to cancel our gym membership. The Love has started walking (and even running a little) on the school track nearby. He hasn't been to the gym in several weeks. If everything is perfect I go the gym 2 days a week. We feel that right now we can put that money to better use. We've been members of our gym for 10+ years. I feel a little sad about ending our membership, but come winter we can always join again. In the meantime, we will have saved some money which is a good thing.
I have some free weights at home. That won't be a problem. I can do lunges and squats in place of leg extensions and leg curls. That won't be a problem. I actually will do more ab/core work at home because I hate doing those exercises at the gym. The issue becomes how do I get in the warm up miles? Do they matter in the overall training schedule? Feel free to chime in here, Coach Jeni!
So the whole car repair issue has played a little havoc with my training schedule this week. I ran yesterday and strength trained today.
Another change is in the offing with regard to strength training. The Love and I have agreed to cancel our gym membership. The Love has started walking (and even running a little) on the school track nearby. He hasn't been to the gym in several weeks. If everything is perfect I go the gym 2 days a week. We feel that right now we can put that money to better use. We've been members of our gym for 10+ years. I feel a little sad about ending our membership, but come winter we can always join again. In the meantime, we will have saved some money which is a good thing.
I have some free weights at home. That won't be a problem. I can do lunges and squats in place of leg extensions and leg curls. That won't be a problem. I actually will do more ab/core work at home because I hate doing those exercises at the gym. The issue becomes how do I get in the warm up miles? Do they matter in the overall training schedule? Feel free to chime in here, Coach Jeni!
Saturday, May 1, 2010
A Better 7 Mile Run
Wednesday's Stats
Distance: 7.01 mi.
Time: 1:29:41
Pace: 12:47 min/mi.
Time of day: 8:10 a.m.
Temperature: 50-ish
Wednesday's seven miles were a heck of a lot better than my last seven mile run. The first time I ran 7 miles was back in February when Coach Jeni was in town. I was totally embarrassed by that run. Today's run was really a great run. The ski was blue, the sun was shining, the temperature was pleasant. The smell of honeysuckle and orange blossom filled the air. It was glorious.
So why was I running on a Wednesday? I am out of town and knew I wouldn't be able to get in a long run on Saturday. So I did my long run on Wednesday. After running four miles Tuesday evening I was a little apprehensive about doing a long run Wednesday morning. I knew I would be resting on Thursday, six hours in a car, so I went ahead with the run. It has worked out o.k. I don't think I suffered from any over training.
Distance: 7.01 mi.
Time: 1:29:41
Pace: 12:47 min/mi.
Time of day: 8:10 a.m.
Temperature: 50-ish
Wednesday's seven miles were a heck of a lot better than my last seven mile run. The first time I ran 7 miles was back in February when Coach Jeni was in town. I was totally embarrassed by that run. Today's run was really a great run. The ski was blue, the sun was shining, the temperature was pleasant. The smell of honeysuckle and orange blossom filled the air. It was glorious.
So why was I running on a Wednesday? I am out of town and knew I wouldn't be able to get in a long run on Saturday. So I did my long run on Wednesday. After running four miles Tuesday evening I was a little apprehensive about doing a long run Wednesday morning. I knew I would be resting on Thursday, six hours in a car, so I went ahead with the run. It has worked out o.k. I don't think I suffered from any over training.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Yesterday and Today
Thursday's Run
Distance: 2.29 mi.
Time: 29:51 min.
Pace: 13:01 min./mi.
Time of day: 12:20 p.m.
Temperature: 65°F. (I forgot to log the temperature, but it was close to that.) It was a beautiful noontime run.
My first attempt at running up the hill in front of my house. I have to laugh! I live halfway up a pretty long hill. Coach Jeni told me earlier this week that from the bottom of the hill to about halfway would be good training for my next race. So today I walked out of the house, down the hill and stretched a little. I took off up the hill at a pretty slow pace (about 15:30 min./mi.). I did actually make it to the top of the street. At that point you turn, continue up the hill another block and then the road flattens out. As I said, I made it to the top of my street. That was my goal. I was lightheaded andbreathing hard gasping for breath. But I didn't stop. I turned the corner and walked the remaining 1 block to the flat part of the road. My breathing had slowed enough that I started running. (Yes, actually running, with only one foot on the ground at a time.) I ran out of my subdivision and on to my usual 2 mile course.
It took about 3/4 of mile before I felt I have recovered from the hill. But, hey, that was my first time. It will only get better from here on out.
Oh yes. I swapped Thursday and Friday workouts. It was supposed to rain all day Friday so I decided to run Thursday and go to the gym for strength training on Friday. Which I did.
Friday's Workout
An easy 1 mile on the treadmill to warm up, then 1 set of each exercise to ease back into the strength training routine.
I need to increase my upper body strength so I don't slump so much as I tire during running. Besides, it makes me look better. And as I have said to The Son a couple of times, "It's all about the look." He'll understand.
Saturday is my first "long" run since the race. It is 5 miles. It is supposed to rain tomorrow also. But I think I will run in the rain (if it's not too bad) just for the experience.
It feels good to be working out regularly again. I understand that I need to give my body time to recover from racing and I understand that right now that takes me a couple of weeks. But, I miss the discipline of working out every day. I tend to get lazy when I'm taking it easy with the training. It 's a darn good thing I have such a great Coach to keep me healthy!
Distance: 2.29 mi.
Time: 29:51 min.
Pace: 13:01 min./mi.
Time of day: 12:20 p.m.
Temperature: 65°F. (I forgot to log the temperature, but it was close to that.) It was a beautiful noontime run.
My first attempt at running up the hill in front of my house. I have to laugh! I live halfway up a pretty long hill. Coach Jeni told me earlier this week that from the bottom of the hill to about halfway would be good training for my next race. So today I walked out of the house, down the hill and stretched a little. I took off up the hill at a pretty slow pace (about 15:30 min./mi.). I did actually make it to the top of the street. At that point you turn, continue up the hill another block and then the road flattens out. As I said, I made it to the top of my street. That was my goal. I was lightheaded and
It took about 3/4 of mile before I felt I have recovered from the hill. But, hey, that was my first time. It will only get better from here on out.
Oh yes. I swapped Thursday and Friday workouts. It was supposed to rain all day Friday so I decided to run Thursday and go to the gym for strength training on Friday. Which I did.
Friday's Workout
An easy 1 mile on the treadmill to warm up, then 1 set of each exercise to ease back into the strength training routine.
I need to increase my upper body strength so I don't slump so much as I tire during running. Besides, it makes me look better. And as I have said to The Son a couple of times, "It's all about the look." He'll understand.
Saturday is my first "long" run since the race. It is 5 miles. It is supposed to rain tomorrow also. But I think I will run in the rain (if it's not too bad) just for the experience.
It feels good to be working out regularly again. I understand that I need to give my body time to recover from racing and I understand that right now that takes me a couple of weeks. But, I miss the discipline of working out every day. I tend to get lazy when I'm taking it easy with the training. It 's a darn good thing I have such a great Coach to keep me healthy!
Catching Up Part 1
I am way behind and it will take several posts to catch up. So here goes.
I ran the Go! St. Louis half marathon and feel pretty good about my performance. Coach Jeni suggested I go easy the following 2 weeks and I havem mostly.
1st Run Post Race
Distance: 4.3 mi
Time: 51:24 min.
Pace: 11:57 min/mi.
Time of Day: 6:30 a.m.
Temp: 48°F. It was a beautiful morning to run.
In looking at my pace, I didn't exactly take it easy with this run and I paid for it the next day. I was noticeably sore.
I didn't run again until Saturday due to business travel.
Saturday's run 04/17/10
Distance: 4.14 mi.
Time: 54:19 min.
Pace: 13:07 min./mi.
Time of day: 7:30 a.m.
Temperature: 42° F. A crispy, chilly Chicago morning.
I was fortunate to run with Coach Jeni this morning. It was a teaching run. Coach Jeni explained to me that when she tells me I'm "walking" what she means is that I never have just one foot on the ground. I am in actuality power walking, keeping both feet on the ground and just walking very fast. I call it shuffling and I intend to end it. We also worked on my breathing. I breathe way too shallow. We talked about using visualization to "see" my lungs filling with air and then blowing it out. When I focus on my breathing I do o.k. It's when my thoughts are wandering around that I slip back into a shallow breathing pattern.
Coach Jeni thinks she is hard on my. But I told her that I look to her, depend on her to help me become a better runner.
I ran the Go! St. Louis half marathon and feel pretty good about my performance. Coach Jeni suggested I go easy the following 2 weeks and I havem mostly.
1st Run Post Race
Distance: 4.3 mi
Time: 51:24 min.
Pace: 11:57 min/mi.
Time of Day: 6:30 a.m.
Temp: 48°F. It was a beautiful morning to run.
In looking at my pace, I didn't exactly take it easy with this run and I paid for it the next day. I was noticeably sore.
I didn't run again until Saturday due to business travel.
Saturday's run 04/17/10
Distance: 4.14 mi.
Time: 54:19 min.
Pace: 13:07 min./mi.
Time of day: 7:30 a.m.
Temperature: 42° F. A crispy, chilly Chicago morning.
I was fortunate to run with Coach Jeni this morning. It was a teaching run. Coach Jeni explained to me that when she tells me I'm "walking" what she means is that I never have just one foot on the ground. I am in actuality power walking, keeping both feet on the ground and just walking very fast. I call it shuffling and I intend to end it. We also worked on my breathing. I breathe way too shallow. We talked about using visualization to "see" my lungs filling with air and then blowing it out. When I focus on my breathing I do o.k. It's when my thoughts are wandering around that I slip back into a shallow breathing pattern.
Coach Jeni thinks she is hard on my. But I told her that I look to her, depend on her to help me become a better runner.
Monday, April 12, 2010
The Day Before: Packet Pick Up
I'm not sure what I was expecting at packet pick-up, but it wasn't anything like I thought it would be. I guess I thought there would be lots more people. I didn't expect the expo atmosphere with vendors and booths and stuff for sale.
A very clever set up though. You picked up your bib, then had to go through the expo vendors to get your packet of info, then back through the vendors, upstairs, and through some more vendors to pick up your duffel bag. Obviously some one with marketing experience laid this puppy out.
There was a booth from YurBuds. I have seen and heard about these earbud covers that actually fit your ears and reduce pain from wearing earbuds. I was fitted and The Son generously purchased them for me.
I think for the Go! St. Louis organization to call this a health festival is a bit of a stretch, but whatever. It was kinda cool. There were free samples of "fitness" drinks (Yuk!) and free samples of energy gels (Did not partake since it's my first race and I'm sticking to products I've tried.), free samples of some cereal and snacks (Which I did take and try and they are pretty good.).
Because I am such a girl and also a mental runner I purchased a charm for my charm bracelet. It is a silver foot with 13.1 engraved on it. I also purchased a magnet that says,
I like that sentiment and I'm going to use it as my mantra for training.
So that was it for packet pickup. The best part was spending time with Coach Jeni & The Son. We had a great time together. Especially when we stopped at Target because it had a Starbucks in it.
A very clever set up though. You picked up your bib, then had to go through the expo vendors to get your packet of info, then back through the vendors, upstairs, and through some more vendors to pick up your duffel bag. Obviously some one with marketing experience laid this puppy out.
See the cool "free" duffel bag!
There was a booth from YurBuds. I have seen and heard about these earbud covers that actually fit your ears and reduce pain from wearing earbuds. I was fitted and The Son generously purchased them for me.
I think for the Go! St. Louis organization to call this a health festival is a bit of a stretch, but whatever. It was kinda cool. There were free samples of "fitness" drinks (Yuk!) and free samples of energy gels (Did not partake since it's my first race and I'm sticking to products I've tried.), free samples of some cereal and snacks (Which I did take and try and they are pretty good.).
Because I am such a girl and also a mental runner I purchased a charm for my charm bracelet. It is a silver foot with 13.1 engraved on it. I also purchased a magnet that says,
Courage to start,
Strength to endure,
Resolve to finish.
I like that sentiment and I'm going to use it as my mantra for training.
So that was it for packet pickup. The best part was spending time with Coach Jeni & The Son. We had a great time together. Especially when we stopped at Target because it had a Starbucks in it.
I Reached My Goal!!!!
2010 Go! St. Louis Half Marathon
Time: 2:58:56 official time
Distance: 13.1 mi.
Pace: 13:29 min/mi
Time of Day: 7 a.m.
Temperature: 50s-60s, bright sunshine, occasional slight breeze
"Do you want to walk or run across the 12 mile mark?" Those were the words Coach Jeni barked at me as I came upon the 12-mile mark. I was walking up the last 50 ft. of the 2nd to last hill on the course. I was spent. Quite honestly, at that point I just wanted to lay down and rest. But I knew I couldn't. I knew I would hate myself later. I knew the 12-mile flag was just a teeny-tiny bit over the crest of the hill, so I reached way down deep and scooped up some reserve and picked up my feet and ran across that 12-mile marker and finished the racing running.
I wish I could say that I got this huge surge of energy and sprinted the last mile, finishing strong, racing across the finish line. But I can't. I did run the entire race except those 50 ft. at mile 12. I met my goal of running the entire race. I met my goal of finishing running. I met my goal of finishing in under 3 hours. But I was out of gas and running on fumes for the last mile and half.
I was unprepared for how sick I would feel after I quit running. I gulped down a bottle of water, stretched with The Son and promptly had to sit down on the curb to keep from throwing up. I felt bad for probably the next hour or more. I laid my head in The Son's lap on the ride home just so I didn't have to sit up. The other overwhelming feeling I had was to get my shoes off. Oh my goodness, my feet hurt!
I was sore. I was stiff. I was so tired. I was so very tired. Did I mention I was tired? It took several hours for me to feel good about what I had accomplished. As we sat around the kitchen table eating delicious grilled hamburgers Coach Jeni, The Son and I shared tidbits of the race with The Love and The Son's Girlfriend. They, in turn, told us of their adventures in watching the race. We had a great time and I quickly realized that not only did I reach my personal goals, but I had a wonderful experience to think back on and revel in the memories made.
So here are my thoughts on the race itself. The whole reason for arriving an hour early to the race is to stand in line at the Porta-Potties. Hmm. Why not just go right before leaving home and arrive closer to race time?
I didn't have trouble in the race until mile 9. In fact, I think I was running strong and pacing well until that point. But being the mental runner I am, when I realized that at mile 9 the course turned away from downtown St. Louis for a couple miles before heading to the finish line, I really got discouraged. Plus, for some weird reason my music stopped playing and I didn't have that distraction. Here are my splits and it obvious that I really struggled through miles 9 and 10 and just wasn't able to completely recover.
Mile Avg Pace
2 12:58
3 13:32
6 12:46
7 13:15
8 13:35
9 14:05
10 14:04
11 13:25
12 13:51
13 14:13
So even though I struggled and had some trouble, there were a lot of positives:
So what's ahead? I will take a walk today with The Love and back to running on Tuesday.
Here are my immediate thoughts for long-range goals.
Post Race Duds!
See you in June at the North Shore half marathon!
Time: 2:58:56 official time
Distance: 13.1 mi.
Pace: 13:29 min/mi
Time of Day: 7 a.m.
Temperature: 50s-60s, bright sunshine, occasional slight breeze
How does this thing work?
"Do you want to walk or run across the 12 mile mark?" Those were the words Coach Jeni barked at me as I came upon the 12-mile mark. I was walking up the last 50 ft. of the 2nd to last hill on the course. I was spent. Quite honestly, at that point I just wanted to lay down and rest. But I knew I couldn't. I knew I would hate myself later. I knew the 12-mile flag was just a teeny-tiny bit over the crest of the hill, so I reached way down deep and scooped up some reserve and picked up my feet and ran across that 12-mile marker and finished the racing running.
I wish I could say that I got this huge surge of energy and sprinted the last mile, finishing strong, racing across the finish line. But I can't. I did run the entire race except those 50 ft. at mile 12. I met my goal of running the entire race. I met my goal of finishing running. I met my goal of finishing in under 3 hours. But I was out of gas and running on fumes for the last mile and half.
I was unprepared for how sick I would feel after I quit running. I gulped down a bottle of water, stretched with The Son and promptly had to sit down on the curb to keep from throwing up. I felt bad for probably the next hour or more. I laid my head in The Son's lap on the ride home just so I didn't have to sit up. The other overwhelming feeling I had was to get my shoes off. Oh my goodness, my feet hurt!
Heading into the Finish Line!
I was sore. I was stiff. I was so tired. I was so very tired. Did I mention I was tired? It took several hours for me to feel good about what I had accomplished. As we sat around the kitchen table eating delicious grilled hamburgers Coach Jeni, The Son and I shared tidbits of the race with The Love and The Son's Girlfriend. They, in turn, told us of their adventures in watching the race. We had a great time and I quickly realized that not only did I reach my personal goals, but I had a wonderful experience to think back on and revel in the memories made.
So here are my thoughts on the race itself. The whole reason for arriving an hour early to the race is to stand in line at the Porta-Potties. Hmm. Why not just go right before leaving home and arrive closer to race time?
I didn't have trouble in the race until mile 9. In fact, I think I was running strong and pacing well until that point. But being the mental runner I am, when I realized that at mile 9 the course turned away from downtown St. Louis for a couple miles before heading to the finish line, I really got discouraged. Plus, for some weird reason my music stopped playing and I didn't have that distraction. Here are my splits and it obvious that I really struggled through miles 9 and 10 and just wasn't able to completely recover.
Mile Avg Pace
1 12:25
Here Comes Mile 8!
2 12:58
3 13:32
4 12:42
5 13:046 12:46
7 13:15
8 13:35
9 14:05
10 14:04
11 13:25
12 13:51
13 14:13
So even though I struggled and had some trouble, there were a lot of positives:
- I didn't have to stop to go the bathroom. Even though I drank one bottle of water in the first 6 miles, in addition to at least 2 cups of water at every water station (every 2 miles up to mile 8 & every 1 mile after that) I think I sweated it all out.
- The blister area on my right foot didn't bother me and my fears of having to stop because of blister problems did not materialize.
- I didn't walk. O.K. I did walk 50 ft. right at the top of the 2nd to last hill. But I also walked through each water station. I count that as having run the entire race and so do Coach Jeni & The Son.
- I actually passed some runners—and I passed a lot of walkers. I wasn't the last person to finish the race, I wasn't even the last runner.
- In real terms, this was only my 4th long run. And my longest run before this race was 11 miles. I increased my distance by almost 20% to run the race.
So what's ahead? I will take a walk today with The Love and back to running on Tuesday.
Here are my immediate thoughts for long-range goals.
- Work on endurance and stamina. I don't ever want to feel like quitting at mile 12 again!
- Increase upper body strength. I could tell that as I ran out of energy I slumped which, in turn, affected my breathing.
- Work on speed. I don't anticipate being a speed devil. I don't want to train that hard, but I would like to see better times.
My Cheer Poster
The Rewards!
Post Race Duds!
See you in June at the North Shore half marathon!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Random Thoughts on Running
Now that's it has been 24 hours since I did my longest run ever and I didn't do any workout today because my legs were so darn sore, I thought I would put down some random thoughts I have had about running.
I can still hardly believe that I ran 11 miles. I first talked to The Coach about wanting to run the Go! St. Louis half-marathon Nov. 12th or 13th. I started training the following Monday, Nov. 16th. That is just a little over 4 months ago. When I stop and think about it, I am amazed at what I have accomplished in the time since that first walk/run on a cold, rainy, dark morning.
I tend to downplay my accomplishments but honestly, I've accomplished a lot. It has taken determination. And I could not have done this without the support of The Love, The Coach, and The Son. The Love has worked his schedule around my running; he never blinked an eye when I took off during the day to run. When I needed something, he made sure I got it. In addition, his belief in me that I could do this has brought me to tears more than once. The Coach has been fabulous. In addition to developing a comprehensive training program, she, too, has supported me with confidence. More than once, she has picked up my flagging spirits and re-energized me. She answered every question I asked, even when it was probably inconvenient for her. She has truly been the back bone of my training. The Son, while playing a smaller role, has nevertheless been instrumental in helping me on the LSRs every weekend. He has quite a talent for keeping my pace steady and encouraging me on the final miles. I honestly didn't think I would be able to run the last 2 miles yesterday without him. But as I became tired I tried to tell myself what I thought he would be telling me if he had been running along side.
So with all this support and love around me I was quite surprised last Saturday at my sewing event for the negative reaction I received from other women about my goal. I ate lunch with a group of women that I know only slightly, through my monthly ASG Neighborhood Group meetings. As we talked about health and middle age the subject of exercise came up and I mentioned that I was training to run a half-marathon. Much to my surprised the women responded with only negative comments. "You shouldn't run because it makes every thing droop." "My doctor told me never to run. The constant pounding wouldn't do anything good for my body." "You're going to get arthritis in your knees and then you'll be sorry." Whoa! I couldn't believe what I was hearing.
I certianly don't expect people to fawn over me when I talk about running and my goal. But, several other people who know I run (and now that I think about it, they are all men,) have responded to me with comments like, "Wow. That's awesome." "Wow. A half-marathon, huh. That's a really long way." "That's great. Good luck." Stuff like that. I am really blown away by how negative these women were. I don't know what was going on with them, but I hope I learned that when someone tells you about a goal in their life, give them some positive feedback. What they are doing is important to them and they deserve all the support and encouragement they can get. Who cares if their goal doesn't appeal to you. The fact that she is moving forward in a positive manner is awesome!
OK. That's the end of my rant. I just had to get it off my chest.
I rested today. I am surprised by how stiff and sore my legs are. Probably due in large part to the half-hearted stretching I did after the 11 miles I ran. (Isn't it so cool that I ran 11 miles?) Tomorrow is a 6-mile run. While I think it would be easy to talk about how it's only half of what I just ran so it will be easy, I don't think so. Six miles is still a distance for me to go. But I am totally up for it. Should I take my grocery list with me as I run to the grocery store and back?
I can still hardly believe that I ran 11 miles. I first talked to The Coach about wanting to run the Go! St. Louis half-marathon Nov. 12th or 13th. I started training the following Monday, Nov. 16th. That is just a little over 4 months ago. When I stop and think about it, I am amazed at what I have accomplished in the time since that first walk/run on a cold, rainy, dark morning.
I tend to downplay my accomplishments but honestly, I've accomplished a lot. It has taken determination. And I could not have done this without the support of The Love, The Coach, and The Son. The Love has worked his schedule around my running; he never blinked an eye when I took off during the day to run. When I needed something, he made sure I got it. In addition, his belief in me that I could do this has brought me to tears more than once. The Coach has been fabulous. In addition to developing a comprehensive training program, she, too, has supported me with confidence. More than once, she has picked up my flagging spirits and re-energized me. She answered every question I asked, even when it was probably inconvenient for her. She has truly been the back bone of my training. The Son, while playing a smaller role, has nevertheless been instrumental in helping me on the LSRs every weekend. He has quite a talent for keeping my pace steady and encouraging me on the final miles. I honestly didn't think I would be able to run the last 2 miles yesterday without him. But as I became tired I tried to tell myself what I thought he would be telling me if he had been running along side.
So with all this support and love around me I was quite surprised last Saturday at my sewing event for the negative reaction I received from other women about my goal. I ate lunch with a group of women that I know only slightly, through my monthly ASG Neighborhood Group meetings. As we talked about health and middle age the subject of exercise came up and I mentioned that I was training to run a half-marathon. Much to my surprised the women responded with only negative comments. "You shouldn't run because it makes every thing droop." "My doctor told me never to run. The constant pounding wouldn't do anything good for my body." "You're going to get arthritis in your knees and then you'll be sorry." Whoa! I couldn't believe what I was hearing.
I certianly don't expect people to fawn over me when I talk about running and my goal. But, several other people who know I run (and now that I think about it, they are all men,) have responded to me with comments like, "Wow. That's awesome." "Wow. A half-marathon, huh. That's a really long way." "That's great. Good luck." Stuff like that. I am really blown away by how negative these women were. I don't know what was going on with them, but I hope I learned that when someone tells you about a goal in their life, give them some positive feedback. What they are doing is important to them and they deserve all the support and encouragement they can get. Who cares if their goal doesn't appeal to you. The fact that she is moving forward in a positive manner is awesome!
OK. That's the end of my rant. I just had to get it off my chest.
I rested today. I am surprised by how stiff and sore my legs are. Probably due in large part to the half-hearted stretching I did after the 11 miles I ran. (Isn't it so cool that I ran 11 miles?) Tomorrow is a 6-mile run. While I think it would be easy to talk about how it's only half of what I just ran so it will be easy, I don't think so. Six miles is still a distance for me to go. But I am totally up for it. Should I take my grocery list with me as I run to the grocery store and back?
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