So, when last I left you I was taking a forced rest week from running. SIX full days of no running. I think the last time I did that was in January after the Houston Marathon.
Sunday 11/18 - slow run around Lake Pflugerville, lots of walk breaks. Feeling ok but not 100%. 5.5 miles total.
Monday 11/19 - 3 miles around the hood before our drive to South Padre. Legs are incredibly tight.
Tuesday 11/20 - rest
Wednesday 11/21 - 5.3 miles on the beach 52 minutes, 9:51/mile avg. I did not wear my Garmin at all while on vacation. Instead I wore my sport watch and just did out and back runs on the beach. I had my 'Map My Run' app on my phone to track my total miles when I was done but I didn't' look at it until I stopped. I felt ok during and after this run, was a nice break to run on the beach.
Thursday 11/22 - Thanksgiving! 5.5 miles, 50 minutes, 9:20/mile avg. Felt great! Lots of people on the beach today made for interesting sights to see. I spent a lot of time rolling my legs with 'The Stick' and a tennis ball.
Friday - 11/23 - Rest. I was going to run but the kids actually all got up at the same time so I convinced everyone to go out to breakfast instead of running. We ate a great meal beach side and had a wonderful morning together.
Saturday 11/24 - 3.5 miles, 30 min. I'm guessing about the distance on this run. It was so windy that I quickly changed my plans of running 5 miles to 15 minutes out and back. We drove the 6 hours back home today and my legs were so stiff riding in the car. My butt was the sore.
Sunday - 11/25 - My Birthday! and long awaited longest long run! Jennifer and I drove down to Austin and started from the Lady Bird Trail and headed North. Running along part of the Austin Marathon course to Shoal Creek to meet Monica was much hillier than we are used to. But we were both glad to have run together and catch up after the holiday. And even nicer Monica joined us in the middle miles for extra entertainment. We finished 20 miles in 3:08:33, 9:26/mile avg pace. I gotta say, this was a good training run. It wasn't easy, I didn't feel like kicking ass at the end, but I wasn't in pain either - WINNING!
When I got home from the 20 mile run I iced my legs and got ready go to out for lunch with the family. The kids made me some really sweet birthday cards and John got me an iPad that I am super excited about.
Now this is where things go south for the Mills family. Unfortunately Maddy was not feeling well and was going to make us all miserable. And John wasn't feeling great either. They both stayed home and I took Jack and Gwen out for lunch and to pick out an ice cream cake. Over the course of the day John and Maddy did not get any better and it looked like they would be spending Monday at home too. I was a bad Mommy and went out with Jennifer and Christina to see Twilight (which was great) and have a beer for my birthday. But I had just spent 9 solid days with my family, so I didn't really feel bad at all. ;)
Monday - 11/26 Rest day. It was a planned rest day after running 20 miles, but as it turned out I would not have run anyway. I am starting to feel a little tickle in my throat, but John is getting really sick. Gwen, Jack and I escaped to work and school and left John and Maddy to enjoy their sick day together. Maddy had a great time, John not so much.
Tuesday 11/27 - Rest/Sick day. I'm sick. Sick enough to go to the doctor and beg for drugs. Normally I would suffer through a sore throat but I'm running a marathon in 2 weeks!!!!
Wednesday 11/28 - Rest/Sick day. John is scaring me, I am terrified to get what he has. What I have is bad, but he is way worse off.
Thursday 11/29 - Rest/Sick day. I joined a conference call from home in the morning and while I was croaking on the phone 3 people emailed me to ask if I was ok, because I sounded like hell and they were worried about me. I am not getting better. So it really is true that antibiotics don't do anything for viral infections.
Friday 11/30 - After a full night of sleep I feel better today. Turning the corner friends!!! I did a short run around the lake today and felt ok.
9 days until the marathon and how do I feel? I don't know. I took a week off, ran at 1/2 capacity for a week and then took another week off. I know I'm supposed to taper before a marathon, but this is not a controlled taper to the plan. I'm cautiously optimistic I can still run a 3:34 marathon and qualify for Boston in 9 days. But do I go all out balls to the wall for it and perhaps push myself too far? Or do I make a call that morning to run it easy and try again in January in Houston? Or does running 26.2 miles really just screw me anyway and it will take me 2 months to recover if I run hard or easy anyway?
My plan this week is to get lots of sleep, eat reasonably well, hydrate, and think positive thoughts.
Showing posts with label running. Show all posts
Showing posts with label running. Show all posts
Saturday, December 1, 2012
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Training Delays
Last week's training started out well. Monday I ran sprints with Jennifer and we had an awesome workout. Jennifer killed her usual pace and kept me chasing the rabbit. Tuesday was an off day. Wednesday was supposed to be a 6 mile run, and Thursday and hard threshold workout. I decided to swap them and do the hard workout Wednesday. I got the workout done, struggled a little to get to the fast pace dictated by my schedule but nothing unusual.
Later on Wednesday night I thought my right knee felt a little weird. I foam rolled and figured it was just soreness. Thursday I got up to do the 6 mile run and right away knew something was not right. I decided to warm up really slowly and see if the tightness in my right knee (on the left side of the right knee) would work itself out. I walked a little, ran a little. 1 mile in I headed back home. This is not soreness, this was pain I didn't want to run through. Not because it hurt a lot, but because it was a sign of something bad.
When I walked in a 6am, John was confused. "Did you go running?" he asked. "Um, yeah, it didn't go well. I came home." John looks at me, wondering how to handle this. Amanda at 6am without a run is not very pleasant. "It's fine" I say, "just feeling a little off."
Thursday I iced on and off during the day, which helped a little. But by the time I came home from work my mood was dark. John had only to look at my face and he was scared. "Uh... can I get you anything? A drink???" I had a beer and he sent Gwen to give me a big hug and tell me what a great Mommy I am. I see through his game, but it was very nice. After the kids were tucked in bed John approached the lion. "Hey, what's the matter?" "Well, my knee hurts. Hurts in a not good way. I'm not going to run for a few days." "Uh OH".
So I didn't run Friday or Saturday and really by Friday evening it didn't bother me. Friday night we went camping and I spent most of the day sitting around. Saturday we went for a long walk and had no issues. Sunday morning I met Jennifer for our 18 mile long run. I felt fine for the first 4-5 miles. We stopped to stretch a lot, but after about 6 miles I could feel that little pain in my knee again. It was a warm, windy morning and we slowed down as we went around the lake. By the time we got off the trail and Jennifer pulled up next to me at mile 17 she said "Your gait is off, you're limping". Shit. Double shit. My feet hurt, my knee hurt. It was ugly.
I got home and John went out to get me 2 bags of ice. I iced in the bath, Maddy chatting away with me for 20 minutes. I didn't feel too bad Sunday. I decided not to run Monday and booked a massage on Tuesday. Monday I was sore and felt the little pain still nagging. Tuesday's massage was just what I needed. For about a month I had felt like my hamstrings and glutes were incredibly tight and I could not get a good stretch. My suspicion is that the tightness in my legs is pulling the muscles around my knees into an uncomfortable position and running is aggravating it further. The massage therapist worked my legs for almost an hour, and I was right, there were point in my legs she had to beat to release. At least it felt like a beating.
John told me I would be stupid to run my planned 20 miler this weekend and I looked at him like he spoke another language. NOT RUN THE LONG RUN?!?! I sputtered for a moment "but I have a schedule, 20 miles, it's in the plan" John kindly said "You've done the training, running this long run is only going to set you back. Would you rather do this 20 miler, or the marathon?" Humpf.
I didn't run Wednesday or Thursday. I slept in *till 6:15!*. I'm eating my way through the candy at my desk. I'm trying to be rational. This morning I woke up with a headache. I need to go running. But no, I know the right thing to do is to rest and recover. I will come back strong next week. We are spending Thanksgiving in South Padre so I can do some short 3 mile runs and test myself out. Since I won't have my regular routes I may feel less compelled to go longer. I'm going to drink. Beer, wine, margaritas. I'm going to have pie. Pie will heal my little knee. I might even rub some on my knee.
Later on Wednesday night I thought my right knee felt a little weird. I foam rolled and figured it was just soreness. Thursday I got up to do the 6 mile run and right away knew something was not right. I decided to warm up really slowly and see if the tightness in my right knee (on the left side of the right knee) would work itself out. I walked a little, ran a little. 1 mile in I headed back home. This is not soreness, this was pain I didn't want to run through. Not because it hurt a lot, but because it was a sign of something bad.
When I walked in a 6am, John was confused. "Did you go running?" he asked. "Um, yeah, it didn't go well. I came home." John looks at me, wondering how to handle this. Amanda at 6am without a run is not very pleasant. "It's fine" I say, "just feeling a little off."
Thursday I iced on and off during the day, which helped a little. But by the time I came home from work my mood was dark. John had only to look at my face and he was scared. "Uh... can I get you anything? A drink???" I had a beer and he sent Gwen to give me a big hug and tell me what a great Mommy I am. I see through his game, but it was very nice. After the kids were tucked in bed John approached the lion. "Hey, what's the matter?" "Well, my knee hurts. Hurts in a not good way. I'm not going to run for a few days." "Uh OH".
So I didn't run Friday or Saturday and really by Friday evening it didn't bother me. Friday night we went camping and I spent most of the day sitting around. Saturday we went for a long walk and had no issues. Sunday morning I met Jennifer for our 18 mile long run. I felt fine for the first 4-5 miles. We stopped to stretch a lot, but after about 6 miles I could feel that little pain in my knee again. It was a warm, windy morning and we slowed down as we went around the lake. By the time we got off the trail and Jennifer pulled up next to me at mile 17 she said "Your gait is off, you're limping". Shit. Double shit. My feet hurt, my knee hurt. It was ugly.
I got home and John went out to get me 2 bags of ice. I iced in the bath, Maddy chatting away with me for 20 minutes. I didn't feel too bad Sunday. I decided not to run Monday and booked a massage on Tuesday. Monday I was sore and felt the little pain still nagging. Tuesday's massage was just what I needed. For about a month I had felt like my hamstrings and glutes were incredibly tight and I could not get a good stretch. My suspicion is that the tightness in my legs is pulling the muscles around my knees into an uncomfortable position and running is aggravating it further. The massage therapist worked my legs for almost an hour, and I was right, there were point in my legs she had to beat to release. At least it felt like a beating.
John told me I would be stupid to run my planned 20 miler this weekend and I looked at him like he spoke another language. NOT RUN THE LONG RUN?!?! I sputtered for a moment "but I have a schedule, 20 miles, it's in the plan" John kindly said "You've done the training, running this long run is only going to set you back. Would you rather do this 20 miler, or the marathon?" Humpf.
I didn't run Wednesday or Thursday. I slept in *till 6:15!*. I'm eating my way through the candy at my desk. I'm trying to be rational. This morning I woke up with a headache. I need to go running. But no, I know the right thing to do is to rest and recover. I will come back strong next week. We are spending Thanksgiving in South Padre so I can do some short 3 mile runs and test myself out. Since I won't have my regular routes I may feel less compelled to go longer. I'm going to drink. Beer, wine, margaritas. I'm going to have pie. Pie will heal my little knee. I might even rub some on my knee.
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Training Recap 9/17-9/23
Last week's training
Monday 6.3 miles, 55:42, 8:51 avg - tempo run with Jennifer
Tuesday Yoga 50 minutes
Wednesday Threshold run, 7.5 miles, 1:03:00, 8:24 avg
warm up, 3 x (7 minutes @ 7:21 pace + 3 minutes @ 8:30 pace), cool down
Thursday 5.01 miles, 44:05, 8:48 avg - felt great!
Friday 4.0 miles, 36:38, 9:10 avg - easy run with Jennifer
Saturday - rest (skipped the planned 2 mile pre-race run in favor of sleeping in and the kids soccer game)
Sunday - race day! 7.5 miles, 55:18, 7:23/mile
Total miles 30.31
Post race I am feeling pretty sore. I definitely pushed to the limit on Sunday, but am recovering fine. Trying to follow the low mileage this week to the letter.
Monday 6.3 miles, 55:42, 8:51 avg - tempo run with Jennifer
Tuesday Yoga 50 minutes
Wednesday Threshold run, 7.5 miles, 1:03:00, 8:24 avg
warm up, 3 x (7 minutes @ 7:21 pace + 3 minutes @ 8:30 pace), cool down
Thursday 5.01 miles, 44:05, 8:48 avg - felt great!
Friday 4.0 miles, 36:38, 9:10 avg - easy run with Jennifer
Saturday - rest (skipped the planned 2 mile pre-race run in favor of sleeping in and the kids soccer game)
Sunday - race day! 7.5 miles, 55:18, 7:23/mile
Total miles 30.31
Post race I am feeling pretty sore. I definitely pushed to the limit on Sunday, but am recovering fine. Trying to follow the low mileage this week to the letter.
Thursday, September 20, 2012
10 Running Related Personal Questions
As posted by Another Mother Runner (AMR), and Mom,Swim,Bike,Run (MSBR) who are all Bad Ass Mother Runners (BAMRs). Here are 10 Running Related Personal Questions.
1. Best Run Ever: I think the 2012 Houston Marathon was definitely the culmination of a year of training that resulted in a killer time and felt phenomenal.
2. Three words that describe my running: Follow the Plan
3. My go to running outfit is: Pearl Izumi or Lululemon shorts, double layer Write socks, Brookes Adrenaline shoes and whatever sports bra or shirt is on top of the pile. Hat or headband depending on the weather.
4. Quirky habit while running: 3 breathes in, 2 breathes out.
5. Morning, Mid-day, Evening?: Morning almost all the time. I will do an occasional midday or evening run if my schedule is totally cray-cray, but morning is the best time for me to get a run in AND keeps me sane the rest of the day.
6. I won't run outside when: It's either thunder and lightening out or below 20 degrees, but it doesn't get that cold very often in Texas.
7. Worst injury, and how I got over it: Lucky for me, no serious injuries. I have had minor stresses and strains that required 1-2 months off.
8. I feel most like a bad ass mother runner when: I push my kids in the stroller and pass people.
9. Next race is: Austin Marathon Relay 9/23, then the Chosen 1/2 Marathon 10/27
10. Potential running goal for 2013: Qualify for Boston Bitches.
1. Best Run Ever: I think the 2012 Houston Marathon was definitely the culmination of a year of training that resulted in a killer time and felt phenomenal.
2. Three words that describe my running: Follow the Plan
3. My go to running outfit is: Pearl Izumi or Lululemon shorts, double layer Write socks, Brookes Adrenaline shoes and whatever sports bra or shirt is on top of the pile. Hat or headband depending on the weather.
4. Quirky habit while running: 3 breathes in, 2 breathes out.
5. Morning, Mid-day, Evening?: Morning almost all the time. I will do an occasional midday or evening run if my schedule is totally cray-cray, but morning is the best time for me to get a run in AND keeps me sane the rest of the day.
6. I won't run outside when: It's either thunder and lightening out or below 20 degrees, but it doesn't get that cold very often in Texas.
7. Worst injury, and how I got over it: Lucky for me, no serious injuries. I have had minor stresses and strains that required 1-2 months off.
8. I feel most like a bad ass mother runner when: I push my kids in the stroller and pass people.
9. Next race is: Austin Marathon Relay 9/23, then the Chosen 1/2 Marathon 10/27
10. Potential running goal for 2013: Qualify for Boston Bitches.
Sunday, September 16, 2012
Training Recap 9/10-9/16
Monday - Killer Tempo Run. ~8-8.5 miles. I don't know what my Garmin 305 is doing, but I do not appreciate it. I had a hard tempo run, and was doing it, but I know my watch miscalculated some miles (said my 8:00 mile was a 6:15 miles). I may have felt great in the cooler weather, but not that great.
Tuesday - Yoga 48 minutes. I did a new yoga video, Yoga for Athletes, and it was really nice. Having done a variety of yoga videos and a handful of classes I was able to keep up with it and understand the poses without looking at the TV too much. There were some really nice stretches that targeted areas I normally miss.
Wednesday - 5.6 miles, 50:58, 9:05/avg. I used my phone for tracking today, which was annoying. Running with Christina was really nice though, so nice to have a partner. But, that is our last run together for awhile, she is now stuck in a walking boot with a mild stress fracture.
Thursday - 5.4 miles, 46:23 min, 8:35/avg. El Diablo drills of 6x.25 mile repeats. It took a while to warm up but I made it through.
Friday - totally bailed on Jennifer. It was raining (sort of) and I should have just gone but felt like I wanted the sleep more. But, like an idiot I could not really fall back asleep, so I was just pissed off that I didn't run. Then I decided to eat BBQ for lunch and Tex-Mex for dinner - GENIUS! Super awesome decisions today.
Saturday - 13.00, 1:56:46, 8:59avg. Woke up with an upset tummy, no surprise after what I ate Friday. I was wearing John's GPS watch, so I didn't really pay much attention to our pace until I felt like I was dragging. We ran this super fast and talked the entire time. I guess the cooler weather was a factor.
Sunday - Rest. I thought about making up Friday's run but it raining ALL DAY today (really) and my stomach was still kind of off kilter today. Better to take the rest days now than push too far and hurt myself (see Christina, it is possible to stop!).
Coming up this week is a pretty light week until Sunday's Austin Marathon Relay. Team 50 Shades of Running will be competing. Looks like we will have a decent day and a fun group of girls. I'm itching to race!
Tuesday - Yoga 48 minutes. I did a new yoga video, Yoga for Athletes, and it was really nice. Having done a variety of yoga videos and a handful of classes I was able to keep up with it and understand the poses without looking at the TV too much. There were some really nice stretches that targeted areas I normally miss.
Wednesday - 5.6 miles, 50:58, 9:05/avg. I used my phone for tracking today, which was annoying. Running with Christina was really nice though, so nice to have a partner. But, that is our last run together for awhile, she is now stuck in a walking boot with a mild stress fracture.
Thursday - 5.4 miles, 46:23 min, 8:35/avg. El Diablo drills of 6x.25 mile repeats. It took a while to warm up but I made it through.
Friday - totally bailed on Jennifer. It was raining (sort of) and I should have just gone but felt like I wanted the sleep more. But, like an idiot I could not really fall back asleep, so I was just pissed off that I didn't run. Then I decided to eat BBQ for lunch and Tex-Mex for dinner - GENIUS! Super awesome decisions today.
Saturday - 13.00, 1:56:46, 8:59avg. Woke up with an upset tummy, no surprise after what I ate Friday. I was wearing John's GPS watch, so I didn't really pay much attention to our pace until I felt like I was dragging. We ran this super fast and talked the entire time. I guess the cooler weather was a factor.
Sunday - Rest. I thought about making up Friday's run but it raining ALL DAY today (really) and my stomach was still kind of off kilter today. Better to take the rest days now than push too far and hurt myself (see Christina, it is possible to stop!).
Coming up this week is a pretty light week until Sunday's Austin Marathon Relay. Team 50 Shades of Running will be competing. Looks like we will have a decent day and a fun group of girls. I'm itching to race!
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Training Recap 9/3-9/9
Mid-week had me feeling pretty run down with either a terrible cold or allergies. Thursday I had to leave work early go get cold medicine and keep my sneezing and nose blowing away from my co-workers. Friday I practically fell asleep while working. But by Sunday evening I am feeling on the mend.
Monday - holiday! I did not get up to run early, so I ran late in the evening after the kids went to bed. I do not normally do that, but I hate missing a Monday run. Or any run for that matter. It was supposed to be a pace workout of some sort, but the heat was killer. I did the miles to plan, but not the pace.
6.50 miles, 59:17minutes, 9:07/mile avg
Tuesday - Rest day
Wednesday - Maintenance run, 4.55 miles, 43:07 minutes, 9:29/mile avg pace
Thursday - Pace workout including warm up, 3 x .75 mile repeats (5:58/5:50/5:37), cool down. It was tough to get warmed up, but I felt great at the finish.
6.0 miles, 51:55minutes, 8:39/mile avg
Friday - Maintenance run, 4.00miles, 37:16minutes, 9:19/mile avg pace. Finally got a running buddy today, Jennifer joined me and it the time passes much faster!
Saturday - Long run, 10.6 miles, 1:38:33, 9:18/mile avg pace. Jennifer and I ran around the neighborhood and knocked out an easy 10 miles.
Sunday - Rest. Much needed after Saturday's busy day with the kids.
Total miles: 32.65. This was a 'lighter' week, next week each day is a little further than this week. Now is the time to focus on getting lots of sleep, foam rollin', and the dreaded nutrition.
I got a new yoga video (Yoga for Athletes) that I am excited to try next week.
Monday - holiday! I did not get up to run early, so I ran late in the evening after the kids went to bed. I do not normally do that, but I hate missing a Monday run. Or any run for that matter. It was supposed to be a pace workout of some sort, but the heat was killer. I did the miles to plan, but not the pace.
6.50 miles, 59:17minutes, 9:07/mile avg
Tuesday - Rest day
Wednesday - Maintenance run, 4.55 miles, 43:07 minutes, 9:29/mile avg pace
Thursday - Pace workout including warm up, 3 x .75 mile repeats (5:58/5:50/5:37), cool down. It was tough to get warmed up, but I felt great at the finish.
6.0 miles, 51:55minutes, 8:39/mile avg
Friday - Maintenance run, 4.00miles, 37:16minutes, 9:19/mile avg pace. Finally got a running buddy today, Jennifer joined me and it the time passes much faster!
Saturday - Long run, 10.6 miles, 1:38:33, 9:18/mile avg pace. Jennifer and I ran around the neighborhood and knocked out an easy 10 miles.
Sunday - Rest. Much needed after Saturday's busy day with the kids.
Total miles: 32.65. This was a 'lighter' week, next week each day is a little further than this week. Now is the time to focus on getting lots of sleep, foam rollin', and the dreaded nutrition.
I got a new yoga video (Yoga for Athletes) that I am excited to try next week.
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Training Update
Marathon training is going well. I survived the summer months and am looking forward to "cooler" weather in the fall. In Texas fall comes in November so there is still plenty of sweaty running days ahead.
My schedule this week:
Monday - Track workout of warm up, 6 x 400m repeats, cool down. Ran with Jennifer up/down Diablo and kept a strong pace for each sprint. Total: 5.65miles, 8:51 avg, 50:03minutes
Tuesday - rest day
Wednesday - 5.00miles, 48:57, 9:47/mile, maintenance run with Christina around the hood
Thursday - the Beast. I had a 7am conference call and have to be in the house by 6:30 to get the kids ready for school. I intended to get up and out the door for a 8-9 mile run by 5am but I slept right through my alarm. I woke up at 5:30ish and could not make myself get up and do a shorter run. So running at lunch became the plan. It was nasty hot. I ran around the Pf Lake and drank 72 ounces of water. I survived at least. 8.75 miles, 1:17:57min, 8:55/mile avg.
Friday - 4.15 miles, 38:57, 9:23 avg pace, with Jennifer and Christina
Saturday - Long run. 12.75 miles, 1:58:39, 9:18avg. Christina ran the first 5 with us (sort of), I ran through mile 10 with Jennifer and finished up around my side of the neighborhood. Pace ranged from 9:51 to 8:33 at the end.
Sunday - rest
Total for the week: 36.3 miles
One thing I am so grateful for is my hydration vest, thanks to Jennifer's recommendation. In this Texas heat it is essential for long runs.
My schedule this week:
Monday - Track workout of warm up, 6 x 400m repeats, cool down. Ran with Jennifer up/down Diablo and kept a strong pace for each sprint. Total: 5.65miles, 8:51 avg, 50:03minutes
Tuesday - rest day
Wednesday - 5.00miles, 48:57, 9:47/mile, maintenance run with Christina around the hood
Thursday - the Beast. I had a 7am conference call and have to be in the house by 6:30 to get the kids ready for school. I intended to get up and out the door for a 8-9 mile run by 5am but I slept right through my alarm. I woke up at 5:30ish and could not make myself get up and do a shorter run. So running at lunch became the plan. It was nasty hot. I ran around the Pf Lake and drank 72 ounces of water. I survived at least. 8.75 miles, 1:17:57min, 8:55/mile avg.
Friday - 4.15 miles, 38:57, 9:23 avg pace, with Jennifer and Christina
Saturday - Long run. 12.75 miles, 1:58:39, 9:18avg. Christina ran the first 5 with us (sort of), I ran through mile 10 with Jennifer and finished up around my side of the neighborhood. Pace ranged from 9:51 to 8:33 at the end.
Sunday - rest
Total for the week: 36.3 miles
One thing I am so grateful for is my hydration vest, thanks to Jennifer's recommendation. In this Texas heat it is essential for long runs.
Monday, July 16, 2012
Long time no post
I'm well aware it has been almost 2 months of no posting from me. I have had 0 motivation to keep up with blogging and I think most of you are my Facebook friends anyway, so you all know I'm alive.
I have started a family blog that I plan to use as an archive for a family photo album. I plan to post our family photos and adventures there and will make that public eventually. For now my blogging there is in somewhat random order as I get to it. I will also post here but in consolidated format.
This week starts 2 weeks of vacation. We have lots of fun family activities planned and I will be posting that insanity as is happens on Facebook.
When I return from vacation it will be almost 4 months until the Dallas Marathon. I am officially registered and have my training plan and build up races scheduled. August begins official training season to meet my goal of qualifying and running the Boston Marathon (with a qualifying time). In January 2012 I ran the Houston marathon in 3:37 and qualified for the 2012 Boston Marathon in April. Of course, registration for Boston is in September so it was already too late to run in 2012. Normally my time would have qualified me to run in 2013, but 2013 starts the new qualifying standards for Boston for all age groups. My qualifying time for 2013 and 2014 would be less than 3:35. If I want to run Boston in April 2014 I have to run a qualifying marathon time of 3:35 before September 2013. Talk about planning in advance right?
How am I training? I am going to stay with the "Run Coach" website that I used last year to create my running schedule. This is a great website that creates a schedule for you based on your current fitness and goals. Since I have progressed in my fitness, the schedule is harder now. I also contacted the coaches and asked specifically about my goal for a Boston qualifier. They recommended running 5 days a week (vs. 4) and adding in an additional day of speed work. This is similar to most advanced training plans I looked at. 5 days a week is new for me, I am a little nervous about the extra day of running. I am also paying more attention to nutrition. I am back on My Fitness Pal to track my calories. I would like to stay around 135 pounds (134-138 is my anal retentive preference). Now I am looking at more than just calories, but how to fuel for optimal performance. I saw a nutritionist through Well @ Dell, who was pseudo helpful. I am already at the right amount of carb/fat/protein for a normal person. I would like to get more protein and less fat, focusing on eating more vegetables, smaller portions and cutting out the junk food. I am also considering giving up alcohol, but I really don't drink much as it is, only the occasional beer, wine or margarita (that promptly puts me to sleep).
Expect to see more training updates starting in August!
I have started a family blog that I plan to use as an archive for a family photo album. I plan to post our family photos and adventures there and will make that public eventually. For now my blogging there is in somewhat random order as I get to it. I will also post here but in consolidated format.
This week starts 2 weeks of vacation. We have lots of fun family activities planned and I will be posting that insanity as is happens on Facebook.
When I return from vacation it will be almost 4 months until the Dallas Marathon. I am officially registered and have my training plan and build up races scheduled. August begins official training season to meet my goal of qualifying and running the Boston Marathon (with a qualifying time). In January 2012 I ran the Houston marathon in 3:37 and qualified for the 2012 Boston Marathon in April. Of course, registration for Boston is in September so it was already too late to run in 2012. Normally my time would have qualified me to run in 2013, but 2013 starts the new qualifying standards for Boston for all age groups. My qualifying time for 2013 and 2014 would be less than 3:35. If I want to run Boston in April 2014 I have to run a qualifying marathon time of 3:35 before September 2013. Talk about planning in advance right?
How am I training? I am going to stay with the "Run Coach" website that I used last year to create my running schedule. This is a great website that creates a schedule for you based on your current fitness and goals. Since I have progressed in my fitness, the schedule is harder now. I also contacted the coaches and asked specifically about my goal for a Boston qualifier. They recommended running 5 days a week (vs. 4) and adding in an additional day of speed work. This is similar to most advanced training plans I looked at. 5 days a week is new for me, I am a little nervous about the extra day of running. I am also paying more attention to nutrition. I am back on My Fitness Pal to track my calories. I would like to stay around 135 pounds (134-138 is my anal retentive preference). Now I am looking at more than just calories, but how to fuel for optimal performance. I saw a nutritionist through Well @ Dell, who was pseudo helpful. I am already at the right amount of carb/fat/protein for a normal person. I would like to get more protein and less fat, focusing on eating more vegetables, smaller portions and cutting out the junk food. I am also considering giving up alcohol, but I really don't drink much as it is, only the occasional beer, wine or margarita (that promptly puts me to sleep).
Expect to see more training updates starting in August!
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Austin Half Marathon: Race Report
Start time: 7am
Weather: about 47 degrees, sunny, slight cool breeze
Course: effing hilly
Crowd support: Excellent!
Volunteers: Excellent
After the wheel chairs started, the runners surged forward to the start line. I dumped my sweatshirt and stayed next to the 8:00/mile pace group. First goal was to beat my previous time of 1:50. My next goal was to beat 1:45. My plan was to do 8:00/mile for the first 6 and see how I felt, hoping to go faster the last half. I totally did not do that and did the opposite instead. I also messed up my watch at the start, so I lost about .3 miles from the first mile.
Mile 1: 7:47/mile
Mile 2: 7:29
Mile 3: 7:59
At this point I'm really annoyed that I signed up to do this race. Running on South Congress is slightly uphill and I'm kind of 'meh'.
Mile 4: 8:17 - see, not feeling it here
Mile 5: 7:54
Ok, time to Gu and head back North. I'm starting to feel better, but not great.
Mile 6: 7:53
Mile 7: 7:41
Mile 8: 7:57
My left knee is starting to hurt and I am trying to ignore it.
Mile 9: 7:53 - one more Gu and lots of water
Mile 10: 7:58
Coming up on mile 11, my knee really hurts. I consider walking but I don't think that will really help, cause I'm a stubborn ass. I get to my favorite Eminem song "Lose Yourself". At this point the marathon splits to the left and half goes right. I am SO glad I get to go right, even though I know I have 2 hills ahead of me.
Mile 11: 8:16
Slowing down. I do stop to stretch my knee in here. It helps a little but its a weird place to stretch. I know I need to ice and beat it up with the foam roller. The giant hill looms over me and I grit my teeth to run up it.
Mile 12: 8:28
More slowing down.
Mile 13: 7:47
All of the sudden I'm close to the finish. Wow-wee!
Mile .25: 6:42
Official time: 1:44:57, Average 8:01/mile.
My stomach feels sort of yucky and I'm fricking freezing now. Note for next time: use the gear check for warm clothes at the finish. I get to our designated meeting spot and wait for my ladies, checking the Livestrong app for updates on their times. Everyone did great!! I'm so proud of my friends and glad that I have someone to enjoy the experience with. Cause this shit would suck without them!
I went home and did the ice bath thing, took some ibuprofen and headed to Rio Grande for a margarita.
Weather: about 47 degrees, sunny, slight cool breeze
Course: effing hilly
Crowd support: Excellent!
Volunteers: Excellent
After the wheel chairs started, the runners surged forward to the start line. I dumped my sweatshirt and stayed next to the 8:00/mile pace group. First goal was to beat my previous time of 1:50. My next goal was to beat 1:45. My plan was to do 8:00/mile for the first 6 and see how I felt, hoping to go faster the last half. I totally did not do that and did the opposite instead. I also messed up my watch at the start, so I lost about .3 miles from the first mile.
Mile 1: 7:47/mile
Mile 2: 7:29
Mile 3: 7:59
At this point I'm really annoyed that I signed up to do this race. Running on South Congress is slightly uphill and I'm kind of 'meh'.
Mile 4: 8:17 - see, not feeling it here
Mile 5: 7:54
Ok, time to Gu and head back North. I'm starting to feel better, but not great.
Mile 6: 7:53
Mile 7: 7:41
Mile 8: 7:57
My left knee is starting to hurt and I am trying to ignore it.
Mile 9: 7:53 - one more Gu and lots of water
Mile 10: 7:58
Coming up on mile 11, my knee really hurts. I consider walking but I don't think that will really help, cause I'm a stubborn ass. I get to my favorite Eminem song "Lose Yourself". At this point the marathon splits to the left and half goes right. I am SO glad I get to go right, even though I know I have 2 hills ahead of me.
Mile 11: 8:16
Slowing down. I do stop to stretch my knee in here. It helps a little but its a weird place to stretch. I know I need to ice and beat it up with the foam roller. The giant hill looms over me and I grit my teeth to run up it.
Mile 12: 8:28
More slowing down.
Mile 13: 7:47
All of the sudden I'm close to the finish. Wow-wee!
Mile .25: 6:42
Official time: 1:44:57, Average 8:01/mile.
My stomach feels sort of yucky and I'm fricking freezing now. Note for next time: use the gear check for warm clothes at the finish. I get to our designated meeting spot and wait for my ladies, checking the Livestrong app for updates on their times. Everyone did great!! I'm so proud of my friends and glad that I have someone to enjoy the experience with. Cause this shit would suck without them!
Monday, February 20, 2012
Austin Half Marathon - Race Prep
I spent the past week hydrating, trying not to eat Girl Scout cookies, trying not to eat all the kids Valentine candy, going to bed early-ish and mentally preparing for the Austin 1/2 Marathon on Sunday. I was hydrated at least. Jennifer and I were feeling pretty cocky when we signed up for this back on December 31 but did not prepare for the hills of Austin as much as I would like.
Saturday Christina and I went to the expo early and picked up our packets without a problem. I got an long sleeve Austin 13.1 tee. Then I took the opportunity to stop at Lululemon and got a new pair of my favorite shorts and a super cute pink jacket. DAMN YOU LULULEMON!
Jennifer hosted a spaghetti dinner at her house. Thanks to our lovely hostess! Monica made a delicious sauce for the perfect pre-race dinner. The kids disappeared into the playroom and we enjoyed chatting around the dinner table.
After getting the kids home to bed I laid out all my race gear: short sleeved shirt, bra, shorts, socks, hat and Body Glide. Bib & pins, shoes and chip timer. Hydration pack, 2 Gu's, tissue, iPod, sunglasses, chap-stick and gloves. Throw away sweatshirt, extra long sleeve shirt and flip flops for after the race. Breakfast I planned for a bagel thin, peanut butter and coffee. Plus a pre-race Gatorade. Whew - what a load of crap to pack! I painted my nails purple and tried to relax before bed.
4:30 (yes 4:30) came quick, I got dressed quickly and ate breakfast. The girls picked me up and Jennifer drove us downtown. We parked, debated if we were wearing the right clothes (too warm/too cold) and headed to the starting area for one last potty break. Jennifer and I tried to find our Blog buddy Mom Swim Bike Run but no luck in the crowded starting area. After wishing everyone good luck, I went up to the 8:00/mile starting area. I tried not to freeze my ass off waiting for the start, and soon enough it was go time!
Saturday Christina and I went to the expo early and picked up our packets without a problem. I got an long sleeve Austin 13.1 tee. Then I took the opportunity to stop at Lululemon and got a new pair of my favorite shorts and a super cute pink jacket. DAMN YOU LULULEMON!
Jennifer hosted a spaghetti dinner at her house. Thanks to our lovely hostess! Monica made a delicious sauce for the perfect pre-race dinner. The kids disappeared into the playroom and we enjoyed chatting around the dinner table.
After getting the kids home to bed I laid out all my race gear: short sleeved shirt, bra, shorts, socks, hat and Body Glide. Bib & pins, shoes and chip timer. Hydration pack, 2 Gu's, tissue, iPod, sunglasses, chap-stick and gloves. Throw away sweatshirt, extra long sleeve shirt and flip flops for after the race. Breakfast I planned for a bagel thin, peanut butter and coffee. Plus a pre-race Gatorade. Whew - what a load of crap to pack! I painted my nails purple and tried to relax before bed.
4:30 (yes 4:30) came quick, I got dressed quickly and ate breakfast. The girls picked me up and Jennifer drove us downtown. We parked, debated if we were wearing the right clothes (too warm/too cold) and headed to the starting area for one last potty break. Jennifer and I tried to find our Blog buddy Mom Swim Bike Run but no luck in the crowded starting area. After wishing everyone good luck, I went up to the 8:00/mile starting area. I tried not to freeze my ass off waiting for the start, and soon enough it was go time!
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Music for the Moment
When I posted on Facebook that I was working on my playlist for 13.1 miles this weekend a friend asked WHAT was on said playlist. Here it is, the good, the bad and the pop. The last 10 songs are my absolute favorite running songs and I planned them for the hardest part of the race.
Start Me Up - Rolling Stones
Welcome to the Jungle - Guns 'N' Roses
Fuck You - Cee Lo
TiK Tok - Kesha
Runaway - Kanye
All of the Lights - Ksanye
Born This Way - Gaga
Gotta get through This - Daniel Bedingfield
Run This Town - Jay Z
Under Pressure - David Bowie
Money Honey - Gaga
Dark Fantasy - Kanye
Dirt Off Your Shoulder - Jay Z
Bittersweet Symphony - The Verve
I Wanna Go - Britney Spears
Your Love is My Drug - Kesha
I Like It - Enrique
Lose Yourself - Eminem
Supermassive Black Hole - Muse
Jesus Walks - Kanye
Right Round - Flo Rida
POWER - Kanye
The Distance - Cake
Stronger - Kanye
Firework - Katy Perry
The Edge of Glory - Gaga
Sabotage - Beastie Boys
Start Me Up - Rolling Stones
Welcome to the Jungle - Guns 'N' Roses
Fuck You - Cee Lo
TiK Tok - Kesha
Runaway - Kanye
All of the Lights - Ksanye
Born This Way - Gaga
Gotta get through This - Daniel Bedingfield
Run This Town - Jay Z
Under Pressure - David Bowie
Money Honey - Gaga
Dark Fantasy - Kanye
Dirt Off Your Shoulder - Jay Z
Bittersweet Symphony - The Verve
I Wanna Go - Britney Spears
Your Love is My Drug - Kesha
I Like It - Enrique
Lose Yourself - Eminem
Supermassive Black Hole - Muse
Jesus Walks - Kanye
Right Round - Flo Rida
POWER - Kanye
The Distance - Cake
Stronger - Kanye
Firework - Katy Perry
The Edge of Glory - Gaga
Sabotage - Beastie Boys
Monday, November 28, 2011
Workout Recap 11/21-11/27
Monday - 6.2 miles, 58:31, 9:26/avg
Tuesday - Hill workout at the gym 4.5 miles, 50 min. Was thundering and lightning in the AM so we ditched the run. I went to the gym instead and set the treadmill for what I thought would be a challenging workout. In the end I was struggling to finish without using the handles or slowing to a walk. Killer workout!
Wednesday - Rest
Thursday - Turkey Trot! 5M, 37:30, 7:29/mile average
Friday - Sea World, did at least 3 miles of walking
Saturday - Elliptical 45 minutes, abs/arms 10 min
Sunday - 16 miles, 2:32:20, 9:31/avg
Tuesday - Hill workout at the gym 4.5 miles, 50 min. Was thundering and lightning in the AM so we ditched the run. I went to the gym instead and set the treadmill for what I thought would be a challenging workout. In the end I was struggling to finish without using the handles or slowing to a walk. Killer workout!
Wednesday - Rest
Thursday - Turkey Trot! 5M, 37:30, 7:29/mile average
Friday - Sea World, did at least 3 miles of walking
Saturday - Elliptical 45 minutes, abs/arms 10 min
Sunday - 16 miles, 2:32:20, 9:31/avg
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Workout summary 11/14 - 11/20
Monday - rest from long run and race
Tuesday - 7 miles, 9:16 avg (this was the insane up at 4:30 day)
Wednesday - El Diablo speed work
Thursday - rest
Friday - 4.00, 37:14, 9:18/mile
Saturday - 17 BIG MILES, 2:42:25, 9:33/mile avg
*we found a new route so that we can run around Lake Pflugerville and this was an awesome end to 17 miles. Great run!
33.61 miles total
Tuesday - 7 miles, 9:16 avg (this was the insane up at 4:30 day)
Wednesday - El Diablo speed work
Thursday - rest
Friday - 4.00, 37:14, 9:18/mile
Saturday - 17 BIG MILES, 2:42:25, 9:33/mile avg
*we found a new route so that we can run around Lake Pflugerville and this was an awesome end to 17 miles. Great run!
33.61 miles total
Monday, November 14, 2011
Workout Recap: Nov 7-Nov 13
11/7: 4.00 miles, 38:01, 9:30/mile, with JC
11/8: nothing (Jenna's surgery day)
11/9: nada
11/10: 6.20 miles, 57:13, 9:14/mile, with JC
11/11: rest day
11/12: long run 15.01, 2:19:53, 9:19/mile avg, with JC
11/13: Komen 5k, 3.20miles, 23:09, 7:14/mile
I started off the week feeling the beginings of a cold, nothing terrible just a tickle in my throat. By Wednesday I was feeling pretty tired and was fighting hard to avoid getting worse. I skipped a planned "BIG WORKOUT" on the schedule and had an extra rest day that was much needed.
Our 15 mile long run was great. Perfect 50 degrees with little wind. We chatted the whole time, as usual. I'm not sure that Jennifer and I have anything left to talk about but we always manage to pass the time and entertain each other. Jennifer has a new running toy that I am JEALOUS of, a hydration pack. Maybe I'll break down and follow her lead on this one. For this week's long run I ate a bagel thin with peanut butter for breakfast, and took in a pack of Shot Blocks and a Gu. I felt pretty decent about the calories but I'll have to do more for next week.
11/8: nothing (Jenna's surgery day)
11/9: nada
11/10: 6.20 miles, 57:13, 9:14/mile, with JC
11/11: rest day
11/12: long run 15.01, 2:19:53, 9:19/mile avg, with JC
11/13: Komen 5k, 3.20miles, 23:09, 7:14/mile
I started off the week feeling the beginings of a cold, nothing terrible just a tickle in my throat. By Wednesday I was feeling pretty tired and was fighting hard to avoid getting worse. I skipped a planned "BIG WORKOUT" on the schedule and had an extra rest day that was much needed.
Our 15 mile long run was great. Perfect 50 degrees with little wind. We chatted the whole time, as usual. I'm not sure that Jennifer and I have anything left to talk about but we always manage to pass the time and entertain each other. Jennifer has a new running toy that I am JEALOUS of, a hydration pack. Maybe I'll break down and follow her lead on this one. For this week's long run I ate a bagel thin with peanut butter for breakfast, and took in a pack of Shot Blocks and a Gu. I felt pretty decent about the calories but I'll have to do more for next week.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Monday, November 7, 2011
Workout Log: 10/31-11/6
Monday - 6.00 miles, 58:05, 8:51/mi avg, with Christina. Started out way to fast cause I got up late (again). I ended up feeling pretty sore by the end.
Tuesday - Track workout, 8x.25m repeats with Jennifer. 5.75m, 52:16, 9:05/mile total
That night I get it on with the foam roller, super sore
Wednesday - much needed rest day
Thursday - 6.70m, 58:39, 8:45/mi avg. Tempo run in very windy conditions.
Friday - off
Saturday - 14.30 miles, 2:14:29, 9:24/mile avg. Ran 5 with Christina and Jennifer and I did 14. It was 45 degrees but I ran in shorts, I thought that was a mistake to start but I was comfortable after going numb.
Sunday - rest
Total mileage 32.75
Good news is that my Sunday/Monday runs reminded me that warming up and cooling down is essential for running pain free. Not warming up definitely made a difference.
Bad news is that my stupid toe has a stupid blister that is driving me bonkers. It seems like little feet constantly step on it, my shoes rub it and it's making me walk funny. Not sure what I can do about it, other than complain.
Tuesday - Track workout, 8x.25m repeats with Jennifer. 5.75m, 52:16, 9:05/mile total
That night I get it on with the foam roller, super sore
Wednesday - much needed rest day
Thursday - 6.70m, 58:39, 8:45/mi avg. Tempo run in very windy conditions.
Friday - off
Saturday - 14.30 miles, 2:14:29, 9:24/mile avg. Ran 5 with Christina and Jennifer and I did 14. It was 45 degrees but I ran in shorts, I thought that was a mistake to start but I was comfortable after going numb.
Sunday - rest
Total mileage 32.75
Good news is that my Sunday/Monday runs reminded me that warming up and cooling down is essential for running pain free. Not warming up definitely made a difference.
Bad news is that my stupid toe has a stupid blister that is driving me bonkers. It seems like little feet constantly step on it, my shoes rub it and it's making me walk funny. Not sure what I can do about it, other than complain.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
The Ice Contraption
My sister is getting hip surgery next week. As part of her recovery, they are giving her one of these to use. A portable electric powered ice wrap. I snickered for about 10 seconds at the thought of my younger sister having to drag this thing about. And then I realized that is fricken awesome! I want one for my own personal use! ~ Jealous
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Weekly Workout Report 10/24 - 10/30 and Bonehead of the Week
Monday - Maintenance run: 5.15 miles, 47:32, 9:14/mile avg, w/ JC
Tuesday - Track: WUP; 4x500m @ 7:43/mile + 3:00 recovery; CD. 6.00 miles, 51:54, 8:39/mile avg
Wednesday - 6 week 6 pack, 35 min
Thursday - Tempo: WUP; 30 min marathon pace; CD. 6.01 miles, 54:28, 9:04/mile avg (too fast), w/JC
Friday - 30 minutes arms & abs
Saturday - "rest"
Sunday - Long run: 12:10 miles, 1:49:37, 9:04/mi avg (too fast)
Friday I wore my ole' black boots with the heel and by the end of the day my messed up big toe was killing me. John mocks my sensitive toes, but it was killing me almost all day Saturday. By Sunday I could feel it but it wasn't nearly as painful. Stupid kids dropping shit on my feet!
Sunday was our long run. Jennifer and I planned to meet at 6am, which means I need to leave at 5:50. So I set my alarm for 5:15, giving myself enough time to get dressed, eat something, drink water and go to the bathroom. I groggily woke up about 4:30, and snuggled back in bed glad for another 45 minutes of sleep. My alarm went off at 5:15 and I dragged myself up. Clock in the bathroom reads: 6:15. Clock on my phone reads: 6:15. Mother effer. My 15 year old alarm clock though today was the F-ing end of day light savings time, so had "rolled back" the clock for me. GAH! I knew Jennifer would have already been at our meeting spot at 6:00, would have gotten to my house at 6:10 and seen it completely dark. In panic mode I run downstairs, turn on the outside lights - no Jennifer. I text "COME BACK!!!" hoping she might go home and check her phone. No luck. So I grab all my crap in record time and get out the door at 6:24. We run a pretty standard loop around our neighborhood, but I really had no idea if she would run the regular route or run it backwards, or might come home early. Turns out she decided to do the full 12 and ran it backwards. I eventually caught up with her at her half way point, 3 miles in for me. I was glad to see her, I felt like a dummy for getting up late, but was very glad she decided to do it without me (good girl!)!
She finished off 12 and I had 3 to go. I ate a Gu. My digestive system decides Gu in means I have to go to the bathroom - NOW! See, I neglected my normal second bathroom trip when I sprinted out the door this morning. I was fine for the first 10 miles, but there's only so long I can go before I have to 'go'. It was daylight, there were people out, even if I was brave enough to drop trou' in the open I can't do it in daylight! This becomes a race to the finish. The faster I run, the more I have to 'go', but I really don't want to crap my pants. At 11.5 miles I drop my water bottle and belt on the lawn, unlock the door, knock innocent children out of the way and dart into the bathroom.
Afterward, I jog around the block to cool down and finish the last .5 I owe to the running gods.
Two lessons for today. One, get a new alarm clock that isn't so smart. Two, the second bathroom break is worth the extra time.
Tuesday - Track: WUP; 4x500m @ 7:43/mile + 3:00 recovery; CD. 6.00 miles, 51:54, 8:39/mile avg
Wednesday - 6 week 6 pack, 35 min
Thursday - Tempo: WUP; 30 min marathon pace; CD. 6.01 miles, 54:28, 9:04/mile avg (too fast), w/JC
Friday - 30 minutes arms & abs
Saturday - "rest"
Sunday - Long run: 12:10 miles, 1:49:37, 9:04/mi avg (too fast)
Friday I wore my ole' black boots with the heel and by the end of the day my messed up big toe was killing me. John mocks my sensitive toes, but it was killing me almost all day Saturday. By Sunday I could feel it but it wasn't nearly as painful. Stupid kids dropping shit on my feet!
Sunday was our long run. Jennifer and I planned to meet at 6am, which means I need to leave at 5:50. So I set my alarm for 5:15, giving myself enough time to get dressed, eat something, drink water and go to the bathroom. I groggily woke up about 4:30, and snuggled back in bed glad for another 45 minutes of sleep. My alarm went off at 5:15 and I dragged myself up. Clock in the bathroom reads: 6:15. Clock on my phone reads: 6:15. Mother effer. My 15 year old alarm clock though today was the F-ing end of day light savings time, so had "rolled back" the clock for me. GAH! I knew Jennifer would have already been at our meeting spot at 6:00, would have gotten to my house at 6:10 and seen it completely dark. In panic mode I run downstairs, turn on the outside lights - no Jennifer. I text "COME BACK!!!" hoping she might go home and check her phone. No luck. So I grab all my crap in record time and get out the door at 6:24. We run a pretty standard loop around our neighborhood, but I really had no idea if she would run the regular route or run it backwards, or might come home early. Turns out she decided to do the full 12 and ran it backwards. I eventually caught up with her at her half way point, 3 miles in for me. I was glad to see her, I felt like a dummy for getting up late, but was very glad she decided to do it without me (good girl!)!
She finished off 12 and I had 3 to go. I ate a Gu. My digestive system decides Gu in means I have to go to the bathroom - NOW! See, I neglected my normal second bathroom trip when I sprinted out the door this morning. I was fine for the first 10 miles, but there's only so long I can go before I have to 'go'. It was daylight, there were people out, even if I was brave enough to drop trou' in the open I can't do it in daylight! This becomes a race to the finish. The faster I run, the more I have to 'go', but I really don't want to crap my pants. At 11.5 miles I drop my water bottle and belt on the lawn, unlock the door, knock innocent children out of the way and dart into the bathroom.
Afterward, I jog around the block to cool down and finish the last .5 I owe to the running gods.
Two lessons for today. One, get a new alarm clock that isn't so smart. Two, the second bathroom break is worth the extra time.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
What to Wear Running?
For newbies, this is a great tool at Runner's World. Enter in the temperature and how you like to feel when you are running and it tells you what to wear. It has been 80 degrees every morning now for what feels like years, but the time will soon come when I will debate shorts or pants? Long sleeve or short sleeve? Hat or no hat?
What I like and how I rate in importance:
1. Running Shoes - I love my Brooks Adrenaline. When looking for running shoes, get fitted at a specialty store the first time. Plan to spend at least $80, $120 is the norm.
2. Running socks - no cotton here! Technical fabrics or wool a must. Highly important if running over 30 minutes to keep from getting blisters.
3. Sports bras - find a brand and fit you like and keep enough on hand to get through the week. Even with itty bitty titties - bras are super important!
4. Shorts - Turbo Run Shorts from Lululemon - love these! Nice length and a great pocket set up. Zippered pocket in back, gel pocket in front.
Adidas Running Shorts - no idea what type I have, they are pretty old and bought on sale at the outlet mall. These are my old stand by shorts. They also have a good key pocket in the front.
5. Running Hat - essential when running in the sun and also keeps hair outta yo face.
6. Technical t-shirts - you can get by in cotton for a long time, but when you make the switch to technical fabrics it's hard to go back. Look for something in a fit that is comfortable, either form fitting or loose. Don't go too big - that leads to chaffing.
7. Light weight running jacket - mine is a Nike brand, also bought on sale at the outlet.
Don't spend too much money until you know what you like. Sports apparel is big business, especially for women (see August issue of Runner's World), don't get sucked into the hype! Check out the outlets and sales online. The Selfish Mommy finds great deals at TJ Max and Ross.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Running Playlist
I've been thinking about my running playlist and what I want to listen to for the marathon. On weekday runs I generally don't listen to music. I'm running with Jennifer most days and we chat a lot, and I also feel more aware of my surroundings when I don't have head phones on. But for long runs and the marathon I know I will want some music to occupy my mind.
What do I like? Fast paced music. I consistently like Emimem Lose Yourself and Beastie Boys Sabatoge during any race. I put a lot of music I THINK I will like on my running play list, and then end up being very annoyed when it comes on. So, I'm putting some thought into my music and maybe trying some new things out.
In a related post on Another Mother Runner, has some tips for creating running play lists today.
What do I like? Fast paced music. I consistently like Emimem Lose Yourself and Beastie Boys Sabatoge during any race. I put a lot of music I THINK I will like on my running play list, and then end up being very annoyed when it comes on. So, I'm putting some thought into my music and maybe trying some new things out.
In a related post on Another Mother Runner, has some tips for creating running play lists today.
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