This Florida summer heat is tough to train in. Being a lazy runner by nature, it's not helping matters much. Luckily my good friend Ed is a running maniac and he lights the fire beneath my Asics. He likes to run at 6:30 am. I like to lay in bed at 6:30 am. Sometimes it's more fun to dream about running anyway. I'm wicked fast in my dreams. Pun intended.
Ed, Bob and I ran on Wednesday morning. I ran 3.5 miles and the guys went on to finish 4 miles. It was the first run I've had in 3 weeks where I could actually breathe. Feels good to breathe when you run , ya know?
This morning Ed came and picked me up for my very first speed workout at the track. I knew he was coming at 6:30 but I still stayed in bed until 6:10. Nice. My husband tried to wake me at 5:30 when he was leaving but I'd changed my mind about getting up by then. I contemplated calling Ed and being a slacker but I figured in the time it would take to find my phone and make the call, I'd be awake anyway. Up I got. Good thing too because Bob W. was supposed to come with us but he overslept! Ha!! He must have needed the rest.
The down side of getting up 20 minutes before a run is....I didn't eat. So I didn't have the energy for the workout Ed planned. I did half of his workout and spent the other half walking around the track while he ran. I need a good nutritional plan. I've never been good about eating. I need to change that. Starting T-O-D-A-Y. Please pass the chips. To me. And I'll take a Bud Light with those thankyaverramuchhhhh.
Saturday is the 4th annual Hurricane Run. As I'm sure you all know, Florida got hit with Hurricane Charlie 5 years ago. It was pretty bad. In fact, we have families still recovering from it. Very sad.
The team will be meeting at this race Sat morning. Jim and Bethany will be away for the weekend. That means I have to pay attention this time and get a good race report out to them. Usually I just do whatever they say..."ride their coattails" you may call it. That's what I call it anyway. I'm a coach for this project, but I tend to be the more emotionally and verbally encouraging coach vs the training, physical and teaching coach...(Jim and Bethany's job)...I like the "hearts and flowers" part of coaching I guess. I like the "hearts and flowers" part of everything, as a matter-of-fact. The team already knows what they need to do before, during and after the race. I guess they'd notice if I tried to slip a little tea party in there somewhere. Or tried to get them all to sing "Mama Mia" by Abba. I might try that one anyway. Like a motivational anthem, if you will. Hey...maybe I can talk them into doing "The Hustle" as a warm up/stretch! I think that would work nicely. Don't you???
Showing posts with label running. Show all posts
Showing posts with label running. Show all posts
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Training
The team will be heading out to Venice this morning for some timed miles. We have a warm up/cool down route planned out but I'll admit to being mostly excited about the track. There have been some pretty accomplished athletes on this track. Olympians!! I'm thinking the feeling will be awesome, just to walk out onto the track. Maybe the energy will be felt.
I'm going to finish my bagel and blueberry tea, I'll be back later with an updated post!! Maybe even some pictures!
I'm going to finish my bagel and blueberry tea, I'll be back later with an updated post!! Maybe even some pictures!
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Endurance Project Week 2
The team met Saturday morning for our second training. Twelve people were there, about 4 were missing for various reasons (life most likely). Bethany had a prior commitment and was away, but she'll be pleased to know we all did those warm ups she showed us! I'll admit, I've never been really good about warming up. I usually just fast walk or slow run the first quarter mile and call it a warm up. Since this project got underway though, I make sure I stretch and take a quick run before I get going and I can see and feel a difference.
We had the 5.1 mile run mapped out, set up a water/gatorade table and had a quick meeting. Everyone was to run/walk their comfy pace and set out to run for 45-50 minutes. This training is not a race. It's for endurance. Not too many people can run their top speed and hold that pace for 5 miles. If they could, we'd have a million people who could run a 20 minute 5K. If you look at some race results, you'll see the "elites" coming in anywhere from 16 to 20 minutes while the average (AVERAGE) runner is at maybe 28-33 minutes a 5k. Then you find a vast majority, maybe even 30% coming in after that time. All these runners are winners for one very, very good reason: they ran the race. Running a race=winning. Yes, receiving a medal/trophy is a thrill I myself am aiming for in every race I run, but for the first half marathon a person is running, speed cannot be the goal. Endurance is key. Without endurance you won't finish. Injuries can occur. Your recovery time will be longer. The joy will be missing. During my marathon training, Jim kept trying to tell me this. I didn't get it until I was in my 2nd mile in that marathon. I could hear him saying "just finish and have a great experience, don't worry about timing your first marathon". He was so right.
All this being said, I ran with the seasoned runners Saturday to see if I could keep up. HA! Nice coaching skills, huh?
We all set out together, Jim turning back a little sooner so he could get back to the water table before anyone else. This way he could tell the runners how much further they had to go before the second turn around, completing a 45/50 minute run. I kept going with the team to the 1.5 mile turn around. When I got back to the water table at mile 3, Jim and I switched places. He ran the last couple miles with the team and I yelled out how much time was left for the turn around as people grabbed some water. Once everyone completed the run, cooled down and rested a bit, we went for some stretches and talked about the run. This is the most exciting part for me. I love the connection to the runners and the thrill of talking about the goal.
Next week we have a track run planned. It's a rubber based track and I'm very curious to run on it. I've never heard of such a thing. We will be timing the runners to give them their base pace. I think this will put speed in perspective for everyone, myself included. Once we get a concrete pace time to work with, setting the proper pace in our minds will take the pressure off being fast. If someone's pace time is 12 minutes, then they'll see that trying to run 9-10 minute paces will burn out their endurance too quickly and they won't be able to run a distance. It's so important for everyone to be working toward endurance vs speed. Which is why we're called "Endurance Project" and not "Speedy Half Marathoners"...lol. I do understand the desire to be fast, to be an exceptional athlete. I think it's a natural part of our sport. I was lucky to have Jim for a coach, because he taught me to ENJOY running as we trained for the marathon. By the time I decided I'd like to be fast, the joy part was already embedded in my brain. I'm hoping to be able to bring the enjoyment factor into our team. For me, it was the part of training that got me to the finish line. With enjoyment, came pride in myself. With pride came confidence. If you ask me (and even if you don't...lol) it's the most important part.
EVERYONE did so well! We have a great team. I am enjoying being a part of this project.
A Word From Coach Jim:
Hello,
This is a little bit of "hype" for our scheduled workout this Saturday (Those of you who can't make it, we will do this a couple days after.) We will meet at the North Port YMCA Wellness Center Parking Lot at 7:00. We'll figure out who's able to drive that morning and carpool to the Gene Whipp Center Track in Venice. Travel time is approx 20 min. Our workout will include an easy warm up run, some drills and stretching. Each of us will then run a 4-lap time test. We'll finish with a cool-down run/walk/jog then stretching right there at the track. Total time at the Venice track will be about 60 minutes. We estimate that we'll get back to North Port approx 9:00. If anyone has to leave early, we can plan for that too. If you want to take a look at a picture of the facility ahead of time, I'm including a link that you can click on and take a bird's eye view.
Notice in the text underneath the endorsement of this track by John Cook,
Testimonials:“I highly recommend this facility for visiting colleges and elite athletes and have used the track on multiple occasions with my Nike athletes.” — John Cook, Nike Oregon Project Middle Distance Coach. Former George Mason NCAA Champion Track Coach.
http://www.genewhippsportscenter.org/
GOOD "Non-Impact" training until Saturday!!!
Jim
We had the 5.1 mile run mapped out, set up a water/gatorade table and had a quick meeting. Everyone was to run/walk their comfy pace and set out to run for 45-50 minutes. This training is not a race. It's for endurance. Not too many people can run their top speed and hold that pace for 5 miles. If they could, we'd have a million people who could run a 20 minute 5K. If you look at some race results, you'll see the "elites" coming in anywhere from 16 to 20 minutes while the average (AVERAGE) runner is at maybe 28-33 minutes a 5k. Then you find a vast majority, maybe even 30% coming in after that time. All these runners are winners for one very, very good reason: they ran the race. Running a race=winning. Yes, receiving a medal/trophy is a thrill I myself am aiming for in every race I run, but for the first half marathon a person is running, speed cannot be the goal. Endurance is key. Without endurance you won't finish. Injuries can occur. Your recovery time will be longer. The joy will be missing. During my marathon training, Jim kept trying to tell me this. I didn't get it until I was in my 2nd mile in that marathon. I could hear him saying "just finish and have a great experience, don't worry about timing your first marathon". He was so right.
All this being said, I ran with the seasoned runners Saturday to see if I could keep up. HA! Nice coaching skills, huh?
We all set out together, Jim turning back a little sooner so he could get back to the water table before anyone else. This way he could tell the runners how much further they had to go before the second turn around, completing a 45/50 minute run. I kept going with the team to the 1.5 mile turn around. When I got back to the water table at mile 3, Jim and I switched places. He ran the last couple miles with the team and I yelled out how much time was left for the turn around as people grabbed some water. Once everyone completed the run, cooled down and rested a bit, we went for some stretches and talked about the run. This is the most exciting part for me. I love the connection to the runners and the thrill of talking about the goal.
Next week we have a track run planned. It's a rubber based track and I'm very curious to run on it. I've never heard of such a thing. We will be timing the runners to give them their base pace. I think this will put speed in perspective for everyone, myself included. Once we get a concrete pace time to work with, setting the proper pace in our minds will take the pressure off being fast. If someone's pace time is 12 minutes, then they'll see that trying to run 9-10 minute paces will burn out their endurance too quickly and they won't be able to run a distance. It's so important for everyone to be working toward endurance vs speed. Which is why we're called "Endurance Project" and not "Speedy Half Marathoners"...lol. I do understand the desire to be fast, to be an exceptional athlete. I think it's a natural part of our sport. I was lucky to have Jim for a coach, because he taught me to ENJOY running as we trained for the marathon. By the time I decided I'd like to be fast, the joy part was already embedded in my brain. I'm hoping to be able to bring the enjoyment factor into our team. For me, it was the part of training that got me to the finish line. With enjoyment, came pride in myself. With pride came confidence. If you ask me (and even if you don't...lol) it's the most important part.
EVERYONE did so well! We have a great team. I am enjoying being a part of this project.
A Word From Coach Jim:
Hello,
This is a little bit of "hype" for our scheduled workout this Saturday (Those of you who can't make it, we will do this a couple days after.) We will meet at the North Port YMCA Wellness Center Parking Lot at 7:00. We'll figure out who's able to drive that morning and carpool to the Gene Whipp Center Track in Venice. Travel time is approx 20 min. Our workout will include an easy warm up run, some drills and stretching. Each of us will then run a 4-lap time test. We'll finish with a cool-down run/walk/jog then stretching right there at the track. Total time at the Venice track will be about 60 minutes. We estimate that we'll get back to North Port approx 9:00. If anyone has to leave early, we can plan for that too. If you want to take a look at a picture of the facility ahead of time, I'm including a link that you can click on and take a bird's eye view.
Notice in the text underneath the endorsement of this track by John Cook,
Testimonials:“I highly recommend this facility for visiting colleges and elite athletes and have used the track on multiple occasions with my Nike athletes.” — John Cook, Nike Oregon Project Middle Distance Coach. Former George Mason NCAA Champion Track Coach.
http://www.genewhippsportscenter.org/
GOOD "Non-Impact" training until Saturday!!!
Jim
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Endurance Project Week 1
I did not sleep well last night. I was too excited! I swear, I woke up every 45 minutes. I was up, showered, dressed and ready to go at 6:15am. Then I had to wait around for 30 minutes before it was time to leave. Pure torture.
We met this morning and had a brief introduction. Bethany showed us some very cool warm up exercises I had never seen before. Maybe took 10 minutes. We decided on a short 2 miles to get an idea of where people were on the ability scale. What we did was head out together and let everyone naturally find a pace. We had a few in the lead who agreed to turn back at mile one. This way everyone basically stayed together without anyone feeling like they were being held back OR holding anyone back. I especially liked this because I think it keeps newer runners from feeling like they are lagging behind. For an endurance race like a half marathon, we can't be focusing on speed. It's about perseverance...being able to "go the mile", not about how long it takes to get there. (at first...lol)
We had a little questionnaire before we set out to run. We all answered these questions, like what was your last run in time or miles, have you ever run a race...if so, what was your last finishing time...what is your goal time for this half, etc. We were very pleased to see everyone had a very good foundation for this training project! Wonderful! Everyone is way ahead of where I was when I met Jim nine months ago. I foresee each and every one of us finishing this FCA Half Marathon. With a great time too!!!
When we finished our run, we did some cool down exercises together. I was happy to see Jim incorporate some yoga into the cool down. The gentle stretching and breathing exercises we did were perfect. I have come to love yoga and appreciate how much more flexable I've become. There's definately a benefit for the runner from yoga.
Overall, today was a huge success. I am looking forward to training with this group of people. Each and every one of us is ready for this challenge!!!
A WORD FROM COACH JIM
Great job to everyone on Saturday morning! What a great way to begin your training through the North Port Endurance Project.
The goal for July 19 is to complete a 45 minute run/walk. Some participants asked for information about the July 19 running route. (team members, please see forwarded email for this detailed info) There will be a water stop at about mile 3 and you will be able to check your running time to determine how much further you should run before turning around. Athletes going all the way to the end of the road before turning around and returning to the parking area will complete 5.1 miles.
A WORD FROM COACH KIM
I don't really have a word, I just like seeing "Coach Kim" in print....lol
See you all on Saturday!!!!!
We met this morning and had a brief introduction. Bethany showed us some very cool warm up exercises I had never seen before. Maybe took 10 minutes. We decided on a short 2 miles to get an idea of where people were on the ability scale. What we did was head out together and let everyone naturally find a pace. We had a few in the lead who agreed to turn back at mile one. This way everyone basically stayed together without anyone feeling like they were being held back OR holding anyone back. I especially liked this because I think it keeps newer runners from feeling like they are lagging behind. For an endurance race like a half marathon, we can't be focusing on speed. It's about perseverance...being able to "go the mile", not about how long it takes to get there. (at first...lol)
We had a little questionnaire before we set out to run. We all answered these questions, like what was your last run in time or miles, have you ever run a race...if so, what was your last finishing time...what is your goal time for this half, etc. We were very pleased to see everyone had a very good foundation for this training project! Wonderful! Everyone is way ahead of where I was when I met Jim nine months ago. I foresee each and every one of us finishing this FCA Half Marathon. With a great time too!!!
When we finished our run, we did some cool down exercises together. I was happy to see Jim incorporate some yoga into the cool down. The gentle stretching and breathing exercises we did were perfect. I have come to love yoga and appreciate how much more flexable I've become. There's definately a benefit for the runner from yoga.
Overall, today was a huge success. I am looking forward to training with this group of people. Each and every one of us is ready for this challenge!!!
A WORD FROM COACH JIM
Great job to everyone on Saturday morning! What a great way to begin your training through the North Port Endurance Project.
The goal for July 19 is to complete a 45 minute run/walk. Some participants asked for information about the July 19 running route. (team members, please see forwarded email for this detailed info) There will be a water stop at about mile 3 and you will be able to check your running time to determine how much further you should run before turning around. Athletes going all the way to the end of the road before turning around and returning to the parking area will complete 5.1 miles.
A WORD FROM COACH KIM
I don't really have a word, I just like seeing "Coach Kim" in print....lol
See you all on Saturday!!!!!
Friday, July 11, 2008
NP Half Marathon Training Starts Tomorrow!
I am so excited!!!! I am really looking forward to this training program. My coach, Jim put this project together and put me on as a running coach. I am just thrilled! Tomorrow is day one. We'll all meet and talk about the training schedule, upcoming races we'll be hitting and of course the ULTIMATE goal of the FCA Half Marathon Oct 11, 2008. Then we'll go for a run...ooooh what a surprise...lol.
I know most of the people who have signed up and we're going to have a great time. We have seasoned runners who have not yet conquered the half, seasoned runners who just want the training program and camaraderie, to new runners who want to take up the challenge of endurance. These are the people I feel a connection to, as I basically jumped in feet first myself. Hopefully I'll be able to give support to these runners as they go through those periods of wondering if they're crazy for attempting such a distance. When they start feeling overwhelmed or thinking they can't do it I can tell them I understand and that they CAN do it. I remember very, very clearly hitting moments when I just wanted to say "forget it"...it's unattainable. Sometimes you get sick, tired or even get an injury to sideline you for a few days. It can still be done. I am proof! Then there are the rewarding days where you see the goal. You run a little further. You breath a little easier. You feel strong as a runner. You know in your heart that you ARE a runner. It's a beautiful feeling. You have become one with the road. Yes, I am a mushy person...take me as I am....LOL
Jim is a phenomenal coach. He teaches and coaches in such a way that you walk away from a session feeling like you can leap a tall building. He's straight forward, supportive and funny. Perfect combination.
I emailed Lisa Lawson, the Race Director for this half marathon and let her know our team will be running this race. She's planning on mentioning our team in her announcements! Thank you Lisa!!!!
Here is the link to The FCA Half Marathon webpage and registration...
http://www.runfca.com/index2.html If you live in this area, check out the website for this race. It will be a beautiful, scenic route and the weather for Florida in October is perfect for a nice 13.1 mile race. It's the perfect race for our team!!
I'll be posting after each weekly training on Saturdays. Stay tuned for the updates!!!
Friday, July 4, 2008
Firecracker 5K Race Results
Today started off a littler cooler at 6am than it usually is by 9am. Which is the time I usually get out there. I helped with registration before the race and it worked out well for one really good reason...I could size up my age group! I also made them all swear not to pass me. Ha!! Anyway, it was great fun!
I notice that I have such a struggle to make myself go fast in the beginning. My marathon training just takes over so strongly! I kept finding myself speeding up here and there when I realized this was happening. I seem to be fine when I'm running by myself, but throw me in a race and my training takes over.
Today's race was so fun for a few reasons. Kimmie and Lewis ran their first race (they're getting married in October) and Lewis even got a medal! Jenna, Bobby and Linda ran today too. They're friends from work. Bobby also got a medal. Bratty-girl Linda beat me by 5 seconds.....she's in big trouble now....LOL. Josephine got a new PR after working so very hard with her speed work. Jim, my coach, was a monitor along the route and it was helpful to hear him yelling support. Bob W. was at the last .2 miles and saw me wanting to lay down. He started yelling and making me go faster. He really helped me finish strong.
So I finished a 5K a few weeks ago at 29:04. Today's finish was 28:37! I only beat it by 27 seconds but I'm very happy! Of course now I want to go do it over since I see where I could have been better, but with all said and done...I just had a wonderful time.
Now I'm going to lay by the pool for a while before I have to work tonight!
Happy 4th of July!!!!!!
I notice that I have such a struggle to make myself go fast in the beginning. My marathon training just takes over so strongly! I kept finding myself speeding up here and there when I realized this was happening. I seem to be fine when I'm running by myself, but throw me in a race and my training takes over.
Today's race was so fun for a few reasons. Kimmie and Lewis ran their first race (they're getting married in October) and Lewis even got a medal! Jenna, Bobby and Linda ran today too. They're friends from work. Bobby also got a medal. Bratty-girl Linda beat me by 5 seconds.....she's in big trouble now....LOL. Josephine got a new PR after working so very hard with her speed work. Jim, my coach, was a monitor along the route and it was helpful to hear him yelling support. Bob W. was at the last .2 miles and saw me wanting to lay down. He started yelling and making me go faster. He really helped me finish strong.
So I finished a 5K a few weeks ago at 29:04. Today's finish was 28:37! I only beat it by 27 seconds but I'm very happy! Of course now I want to go do it over since I see where I could have been better, but with all said and done...I just had a wonderful time.
Now I'm going to lay by the pool for a while before I have to work tonight!
Happy 4th of July!!!!!!
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Busy Week
Really busy week here. I didn't even get to any of my exercise classes. The 2 days I probably could have, I grabbed the opportunity to run. Monday I ran 7 miles in the bahLAYzin heat. I went out at a leisurely pace and was feeling fine so I decided to go further out than I usually do. I did a great big loop and about 5 miles out I changed my mind. HA! Too late of course. I had to walk the last 1.5 miles. I was sick for 3-4 hours from that. I need a hydration belt.
The rest of the week was meetings, work and setting up for a 5k for Friday. I'm off today until 5pm. YAY!! Playing laundry catch up. Maybe get some tanning in.
I ran 3.2 miles this morning. It wasn't TOO hot yet. I was trying to see how fast I could do it because tomorrow is a 5K and I really wanna PR. My last PR was 29:04. I ran 3.2 this morning in...28:08, so it's possible. Might be tricky to get a warm up in because I'm on registration duty at 6am. Hopefully I get out of that in time for a quick mile before the race starts.
I hope everyone has a wonderful 3 day weekend!!
The rest of the week was meetings, work and setting up for a 5k for Friday. I'm off today until 5pm. YAY!! Playing laundry catch up. Maybe get some tanning in.
I ran 3.2 miles this morning. It wasn't TOO hot yet. I was trying to see how fast I could do it because tomorrow is a 5K and I really wanna PR. My last PR was 29:04. I ran 3.2 this morning in...28:08, so it's possible. Might be tricky to get a warm up in because I'm on registration duty at 6am. Hopefully I get out of that in time for a quick mile before the race starts.
I hope everyone has a wonderful 3 day weekend!!
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Sunday Run
Just in from a 3 miler. It's so wicked hot out. I went out kind of fast, I didn't feel the heat at first. At about 3/4 mile I was dying. I slowed to a jog to the end of the first mile, walked 30 seconds, started back up. I kept a slower pace this time. Oh, and during my whole 30 second walk, guess who goes gliding past me? Yeah, Mr Yellow-haired-gazelle-man. Running toward me, may I add. I never saw him coming! Where the heck does he come from????? We said hello as we passed, I should have thanked him for the nice breeze he created as he ran by. Whatever. He never passes me when I'm running. He must think I'm a walker....LOL
I ran on in the blazing heat, happy that I hydrated properly but still wishing the icecream man would go by. I turned around at 1.5 miles and walked across the street. Gazelle-man ran by me AGAIN with him going in the same direction! HOW????? He must run through the school or something. This time I ripped off my headphones and yelled "You're driving me CRAZY!!" He just gave out a laugh and kept going. I was laughing too. On the outside. On the inside I was screaming "Wait for me!" I actually tried to catch up to him but he was gone. All I got was more tired and very sweaty. I'm thinking of waiting in my car for him next weekend. And following him. Is that stalking??? Think he'd notice my car following behind him just a pace? LOL...I'm kidding, I wouldn't do that. I'd love to talk to him though. It doesn't seem right to stop someone when they're running just to chat. I've never seen him at any races.
I took my watch with me on this run. I ran 3 miles in 30:16. Slow. Ah well, what can I do?
I ran on in the blazing heat, happy that I hydrated properly but still wishing the icecream man would go by. I turned around at 1.5 miles and walked across the street. Gazelle-man ran by me AGAIN with him going in the same direction! HOW????? He must run through the school or something. This time I ripped off my headphones and yelled "You're driving me CRAZY!!" He just gave out a laugh and kept going. I was laughing too. On the outside. On the inside I was screaming "Wait for me!" I actually tried to catch up to him but he was gone. All I got was more tired and very sweaty. I'm thinking of waiting in my car for him next weekend. And following him. Is that stalking??? Think he'd notice my car following behind him just a pace? LOL...I'm kidding, I wouldn't do that. I'd love to talk to him though. It doesn't seem right to stop someone when they're running just to chat. I've never seen him at any races.
I took my watch with me on this run. I ran 3 miles in 30:16. Slow. Ah well, what can I do?
Thursday, June 26, 2008
It's Getting Better
I ran Wed at the gym...3.8 miles. It was hot but enjoyable. There's a park about halfway called 5 Senses. I ran in there and walked a bit before getting back on the road. It's a peaceful place, I think I'll go there more often.
I ran this morning at 9am. I just went about 3 miles, I was supposed to be getting ready for the beach. Everyone was still sleeping and Bobby had taken off to ride with his cycling group. I figured I'd get a shorty in. I saw a man up ahead, I picked up speed and "chicked" him. Does it matter that he was walking? No? I didn't think so...LOL...I turned around and walked back to him. I asked if he was training for anything and he said no. He had some surgery and was getting his strength back. I told him about the half marathon training and invited him. He said he didn't think he could do 13.1 miles. I told him I did a full marathon in 4.5 months, so I am proof it CAN be done. I saw a twinkle in his eye, he said he'd give it a thought. So maybe a seed was planted....we shall see.
My husband was off for the day but went for a bike ride with his group. He did 50 MILES!!!! That's a half century!! It took him 3 hours and he L-O-V-E-D every minute of it. Here's the kicker....he has a regular road bike. Not a racing bike. He still averaged 18 MPH. I'm so proud of him. The look of satisfaction on his face when he got home was awesome. I wish he would run. It would be so cool to run a marathon together. He wishes I'd bike. We have agreed to not bug each other about our chosen sports....LOL.
I think this half marathon training project has me fired up. I am back into running again and loving it. Jim (my coach) made me a running coach for this project and I am so very thrilled. I was watching him make the flyer the other day, and when he put "running coach" beside my name I just felt so proud. I don't think he realizes just how much this means to me. To think that just one year ago this month I was still recuperating from being sick. 9 months later and I've run a marathon and become a running coach. Blows my mind. My husband told me today he'd never have believed it. Thinking back to how I used to view exercise I can understand. The sense of accomplishment is astounding.
Tomorrow I plan on a 2 mile run in my Vibrams. I'll be back with an update on that......
I ran this morning at 9am. I just went about 3 miles, I was supposed to be getting ready for the beach. Everyone was still sleeping and Bobby had taken off to ride with his cycling group. I figured I'd get a shorty in. I saw a man up ahead, I picked up speed and "chicked" him. Does it matter that he was walking? No? I didn't think so...LOL...I turned around and walked back to him. I asked if he was training for anything and he said no. He had some surgery and was getting his strength back. I told him about the half marathon training and invited him. He said he didn't think he could do 13.1 miles. I told him I did a full marathon in 4.5 months, so I am proof it CAN be done. I saw a twinkle in his eye, he said he'd give it a thought. So maybe a seed was planted....we shall see.
My husband was off for the day but went for a bike ride with his group. He did 50 MILES!!!! That's a half century!! It took him 3 hours and he L-O-V-E-D every minute of it. Here's the kicker....he has a regular road bike. Not a racing bike. He still averaged 18 MPH. I'm so proud of him. The look of satisfaction on his face when he got home was awesome. I wish he would run. It would be so cool to run a marathon together. He wishes I'd bike. We have agreed to not bug each other about our chosen sports....LOL.
I think this half marathon training project has me fired up. I am back into running again and loving it. Jim (my coach) made me a running coach for this project and I am so very thrilled. I was watching him make the flyer the other day, and when he put "running coach" beside my name I just felt so proud. I don't think he realizes just how much this means to me. To think that just one year ago this month I was still recuperating from being sick. 9 months later and I've run a marathon and become a running coach. Blows my mind. My husband told me today he'd never have believed it. Thinking back to how I used to view exercise I can understand. The sense of accomplishment is astounding.
Tomorrow I plan on a 2 mile run in my Vibrams. I'll be back with an update on that......
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Running In The Heat Is Not Too Fun
Ok, I did run on Sunday morning. I think it was about 9:30 or 10:00am when I left the house. I left my watch at home so I wouldn't get too insane with numbers and I walked to the end of my street to warm up. I should have stretched but I didn't feel like it! Ha!! I was fine anyway.
I ran about 1.5 miles to a bridge that over looks a small canal. I peeked over the edge looking for gators, of which have been elusive. Never saw one. I think I saw a catfish though. The whiskers on this fish were long. I took off again and was feeling pretty dizzy within another half mile out. It was about 95 degrees out, but breezy.
There's a man I see every time I run, no matter the day/time. He has a funky color yellow hair and he's very darkly tanned. He went by me on his bike doing 110 MPH, we waved. About 1 mile later, no kidding, he RAN past me on the other side of the street. I was walking because I was dizzy and when he ran by me I got a little irritated. I felt like screaming "Where's your freakin' bike mister?????" I wanted to ride it home. This guy always comes out of nowhere and passes me in the weirdest spots. I never hear him coming or see where he's come from. He must run a 5 minute mile, the show-off. If I wasn't wearing my bleaching trays and could've talked, I would've stopped him for a chat. But I didn't want to be spitting all over him while trying to speak with bleaching trays in my mouth. So he's been spared...for now.
I ran down to Publix and got some water. Ran to the middle school and did once around the track. I was so hot, I ran home from there. Ended up being a 5.25 mile run. Very leisurely. Very, very hot. Very enjoyable believe it or not. (hey, that rhymed) It was good to get out there. On the run back I saw some cyclists coming my way. I stopped on the bridge and waved as they went by. Then I saw HIM. The most handsomest biker EVER. Our eyes met, our hearts jumped. He pulled over for some smoochies. Ooohh, what a kisser! Yep, my husband Bobby! He was with the Coastal Cruisers, they were on the last mile or so before their bagel gathering. Very fun to see him!! Oh, he's such a lucky man to have me....LOL. I know this because he tells me that everyday. And I believe him.
I have yoga tonight, I think I'll run after that class. It's perfect stretching for a run. It might be a little cooler by tonight. I have a buncha things to do today, I won't be able to run until tonight anyway!
I ran about 1.5 miles to a bridge that over looks a small canal. I peeked over the edge looking for gators, of which have been elusive. Never saw one. I think I saw a catfish though. The whiskers on this fish were long. I took off again and was feeling pretty dizzy within another half mile out. It was about 95 degrees out, but breezy.
There's a man I see every time I run, no matter the day/time. He has a funky color yellow hair and he's very darkly tanned. He went by me on his bike doing 110 MPH, we waved. About 1 mile later, no kidding, he RAN past me on the other side of the street. I was walking because I was dizzy and when he ran by me I got a little irritated. I felt like screaming "Where's your freakin' bike mister?????" I wanted to ride it home. This guy always comes out of nowhere and passes me in the weirdest spots. I never hear him coming or see where he's come from. He must run a 5 minute mile, the show-off. If I wasn't wearing my bleaching trays and could've talked, I would've stopped him for a chat. But I didn't want to be spitting all over him while trying to speak with bleaching trays in my mouth. So he's been spared...for now.
I ran down to Publix and got some water. Ran to the middle school and did once around the track. I was so hot, I ran home from there. Ended up being a 5.25 mile run. Very leisurely. Very, very hot. Very enjoyable believe it or not. (hey, that rhymed) It was good to get out there. On the run back I saw some cyclists coming my way. I stopped on the bridge and waved as they went by. Then I saw HIM. The most handsomest biker EVER. Our eyes met, our hearts jumped. He pulled over for some smoochies. Ooohh, what a kisser! Yep, my husband Bobby! He was with the Coastal Cruisers, they were on the last mile or so before their bagel gathering. Very fun to see him!! Oh, he's such a lucky man to have me....LOL. I know this because he tells me that everyday. And I believe him.
I have yoga tonight, I think I'll run after that class. It's perfect stretching for a run. It might be a little cooler by tonight. I have a buncha things to do today, I won't be able to run until tonight anyway!
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Oooohh, I Like 'Em...
I ran in my Vibrams today. I ran one mile out, walked about 1/2 mile back and ran the rest of the way in. I felt great, but I wanted to take this first time run a little on the easy side. It really felt wonderful. It felt smoother and so free! Very natural. My legs seemed weightless. The bottoms are pretty thick rubber so I didn't feel too much through them as I ran.
The down side is my baby toe on the right foot is hurting a little. It doesn't seem to fit in the spot for it very well. When I was looking into these shoes, I read a few times about this happening. All of the people who had this problem said it worked itself out over time. All my other toes fit fine. I did pull the back lace too tightly at first too. I had to loosen that up so I don't know if that had any bearing on my toe hurting. Maybe it was too tight?
All in all, I think I'm going to like these shoes. I plan on running very short distances in them maybe twice a week and do the 5K beach runs in them. Anything more than that and I'll be wearing my Asics. I don't need an injury 3 weeks before I start the half marathon training. And Jim advised me to be careful with these Vibrams. Since I have not had any bad advice from him yet, I'll keep listening!
The down side is my baby toe on the right foot is hurting a little. It doesn't seem to fit in the spot for it very well. When I was looking into these shoes, I read a few times about this happening. All of the people who had this problem said it worked itself out over time. All my other toes fit fine. I did pull the back lace too tightly at first too. I had to loosen that up so I don't know if that had any bearing on my toe hurting. Maybe it was too tight?
All in all, I think I'm going to like these shoes. I plan on running very short distances in them maybe twice a week and do the 5K beach runs in them. Anything more than that and I'll be wearing my Asics. I don't need an injury 3 weeks before I start the half marathon training. And Jim advised me to be careful with these Vibrams. Since I have not had any bad advice from him yet, I'll keep listening!
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
They Have Arrived!!
My Vibram 5 Fingers are here!!!!!! My husband had today off and wasn't really doing anything...(haha) so I asked him to hang around in case Fed Ex came by. He kinda breathed into the phone and said "ok"....PERFECT! What a sweetie! This is why I married this man. I knew someday I'd order a pair of Vibrams and I'd need to count on someone to be there for me. He's the one...sighhhh...
Anyway....I looked up from the desk and there he was....my Knight In Shining Armour. With a box. Oooohhh....I got all tingly. I knew what he had there under his arm! I was excited for a couple reasons...
1. I love packages
2. I couldn't wait to try these bad boys on
3. I couldn't remember what color I ordered (black and tan) (only cuz they don't come in pink)
I took off my sandals and thought I'd "throw" the Vibrams on. W-R-O-N-G! They don't just get "thrown on". It's hard to get these on. My toes had a mind of their own and wanted to stay together. It took me a few minutes, but I got 'em on finally. I walked around the office in them, pretending to run. My husband sat watching me with a smirk on his face. He's just jealous my sports stuff is way cheaper and more easily acquired than his. Whatever.
I had to stay in the office, I couldn't go running down the road like I wanted to. In the meantime, I wore them around the office. After about 3 hours, I noticed some discomfort in a couple toes. I was expecting this, so I wasn't deterred. I was late but I made it to the last half of my yoga class (the best half may I add) because I worked late. I slipped the Vibrams off. I need to be barefoot for yoga. Trouble was, there were people waiting to get into the room once yoga was over and I could not get those shoes back on so fast. I walked to my car barefoot. No biggie.
A handful of people at work saw my Vibrams and thought they were pretty cool. I think. They're all so sweet, they'd never make me feel bad, so who knows what they really think...lol.
When I got home, I put them back on and went for a quick run down the street. It was awesome. I felt barefoot but protected. It was so weird to actually feel the road beneath my feet. I can see how my feet land now. I love this feeling! I will be careful not to go for too long of a run. I know there isn't any support in these. I'm wondering if I could put a pair of Dr Scholl's in there. I'll look around and see....in the mean time....I'm out of work by noon tomorrow...I plan on getting a little 2 miler in with these on. I'll be back after that to give a full report!
For now, 2 thumbs up for my Vibrams!!!!!
Anyway....I looked up from the desk and there he was....my Knight In Shining Armour. With a box. Oooohhh....I got all tingly. I knew what he had there under his arm! I was excited for a couple reasons...
1. I love packages
2. I couldn't wait to try these bad boys on
3. I couldn't remember what color I ordered (black and tan) (only cuz they don't come in pink)
I took off my sandals and thought I'd "throw" the Vibrams on. W-R-O-N-G! They don't just get "thrown on". It's hard to get these on. My toes had a mind of their own and wanted to stay together. It took me a few minutes, but I got 'em on finally. I walked around the office in them, pretending to run. My husband sat watching me with a smirk on his face. He's just jealous my sports stuff is way cheaper and more easily acquired than his. Whatever.
I had to stay in the office, I couldn't go running down the road like I wanted to. In the meantime, I wore them around the office. After about 3 hours, I noticed some discomfort in a couple toes. I was expecting this, so I wasn't deterred. I was late but I made it to the last half of my yoga class (the best half may I add) because I worked late. I slipped the Vibrams off. I need to be barefoot for yoga. Trouble was, there were people waiting to get into the room once yoga was over and I could not get those shoes back on so fast. I walked to my car barefoot. No biggie.
A handful of people at work saw my Vibrams and thought they were pretty cool. I think. They're all so sweet, they'd never make me feel bad, so who knows what they really think...lol.
When I got home, I put them back on and went for a quick run down the street. It was awesome. I felt barefoot but protected. It was so weird to actually feel the road beneath my feet. I can see how my feet land now. I love this feeling! I will be careful not to go for too long of a run. I know there isn't any support in these. I'm wondering if I could put a pair of Dr Scholl's in there. I'll look around and see....in the mean time....I'm out of work by noon tomorrow...I plan on getting a little 2 miler in with these on. I'll be back after that to give a full report!
For now, 2 thumbs up for my Vibrams!!!!!
Friday, May 30, 2008
Running Barefoot In A 5K
First let me say....3 posts in one day! I guess I'm over my measured (or unmeasured) mile mix up...ha!!!!
I am going to run a 5K on Siesta Key Beach and it got me thinkin'. No....I'm not thinking of running it in my bikini. Geesh. I'm thinking of running it BAREFOOT. It just popped into my mind because I don't really like running on soft surfaces. I thought of my Injinjis, maybe I'd feel like I had a better grip or something. Made me wonder if being barefoot would be easier. It's on a beach so I can't see why there'd be a problem really.
Does anyone have any info on running a race barefoot??? I'm going to Google that, see what comes up....
I am going to run a 5K on Siesta Key Beach and it got me thinkin'. No....I'm not thinking of running it in my bikini. Geesh. I'm thinking of running it BAREFOOT. It just popped into my mind because I don't really like running on soft surfaces. I thought of my Injinjis, maybe I'd feel like I had a better grip or something. Made me wonder if being barefoot would be easier. It's on a beach so I can't see why there'd be a problem really.
Does anyone have any info on running a race barefoot??? I'm going to Google that, see what comes up....
All Better Now
Thank you for all the kind words on my mileage mistake. I was pretty upset at first but I do see the humor in it now. It's pretty funny. It's another example of my "gift" of only seeing the good in everything. I wanted to run faster, I felt like I was running faster, therefore, I WAS running faster. I refused to let doubt take hold and wreck it for me. I fully enjoyed living in my fast runner world for that week. It was joyful and uplifting. You don't know how many nights I dreamed I was running Boston right there beside Deana Koster....sigh. I was beating her by a yard too. Ah well, I always say no mistakes are made if you can find a lesson in the situation. My lesson is....sometimes mistakes are funny!
Some good news though....I am actually running faster. I was a 10 mm, now I'm about an 8. That's no sub-seven, but I'll get there!!!
Watch out Deana!!!!
Some good news though....I am actually running faster. I was a 10 mm, now I'm about an 8. That's no sub-seven, but I'll get there!!!
Watch out Deana!!!!
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Friday's Run...
My runner's club at the YMCA stopped meeting on Fridays because of the season. There wasn't really too many of us as it was, usually myself, Mike and Jim. Sometimes Maria would come along or I'd con some unsuspecting person who happened to look remotely interested in running to go for a shorty. Come to think of it, not one of those people I somehow talked into running has ever run twice. LOL!!
I'm happy to announce my coach, Jim, is putting a training program together for a half marathon to be run in October. We'll start the training in July. Long runs will be on Saturdays, not sure about the short runs yet. Details are still in the works. We'll run a few 5K races along the way. I'm going to do this program with my two daughters! Kerri is 22 and Kirstin is 19. I am thrilled they want to run. I think Kerri will be more serious about it, Kirstin is more of a free spirit and might not get too into it, we'll see. Kerri had a liver transplant 21 years ago so I'll worry about her hydrating on long runs in this Florida heat. Ok, I'll worry about her short runs too! Part of being a mom! Her meds can wreck havoc on her kidneys if her electrolytes get out of kilter. I'll be running behind her every step with a water bottle and gatorade....haha!
So....I have been solo on all my running these days. No runner's club, Mike went to Maine and Jim is extremely busy. I like running with people most of the time. Knowing I'd be running with someone on Fridays made it ok to run alone other days. I had something to look forward to. But alas!! I have found a very surprising side effect of running alone. With no one to talk to, I seem to have picked up some speed...
I did my core exercise class Friday morning, perfect warm up before a run. I was tired and lazy, almost just went home. I decided to do a slow 4 miles, I wanted to just get out there and enjoy the air. I ran about 3.8 miles and here's the exciting news...I ran it in 25:32. Almost 4 miles! I started off slow and steady, not really thinking about my speed. I actually remembered to hit my stopwatch (I'm trying to be better about that) When I looked at it at the 1 mile mark I couldn't believe it! 6:48! This first mile was short, about .1-ish though. Keep this in mind. I pushed my crazy thoughts out of my head, walked about a minute and took off again. Made it to mile marker 2 at 12:04. Yeah, I was thrilled! That was a true mile and it was faster. I am still so surprised. I took off again making it to mile 3 at 17:42. It felt like a dream. Still does. I had one mile to go and I was getting pretty tired by this point. I started to have my freaky obssessive thoughts, doing math in my head but I wanted to remember my times, so I refused to think about numbers and started running again. I got back to my starting point at 25:32. Remember though, this last mile was short by .1-ish also.
I kept running the times in my head as I did the cool down walk to my car. I wrote down my times so I'd remember them and then I started with my math craziness in my head. I still can't believe it. I went back in the gym to leave the paper on Jim's desk but I ran into him on the way. I showed him my watch (which I still haven't reset....LOL) He thought I just did 2 miles. It was so cool to tell him I did almost 4. He knows the route so I'm waiting to find out the exact mileage I ran. I would have been happy running 3 miles in 25:32!
When I think back to that run and pull it apart like I always do....I had a great warmup in the class and I remember I wasn't singing along to my iPod this time. I ALWAYS sing. It's the only time I'm by myself and won't hurt anyone's ears....lol. I was alone too, so no one to talk with or slow to look at stuff with. I had coffee and a banana before I got to the gym, then a water with a GU gel pack right before I ran. I didn't get any calf cramping this time either. I do have a lot on my mind these days, sleep has been elusive too. As I started running I just wanted to clear my mind and try to relax. I usually try to sort my mind while I run but I decided to just let everything go this time. No thinking.
I have this soothing relationship with music that lets me get completely inside it. There are some songs that I can actually feel envelope me sometimes. Usually I need to be laying down either by the pool, in the jaccuzzi or in bed. It's kind of like meditation I guess, only I can do it with any music. I had never thought to try it during activities. I'm thinking that when I shut my mind down and went into relaxation mode it let me just GO. I worry the excitement of running a race may not allow me to relax that way though....lol. I tend to get very excited in races. I also talk to people along the way. I only see some of these people at races, so it's the only time I CAN talk to them. I hope I haven't been bothering them! Yikes!!!
I guess I'll just have to wait and see if I can do it again.
I'm happy to announce my coach, Jim, is putting a training program together for a half marathon to be run in October. We'll start the training in July. Long runs will be on Saturdays, not sure about the short runs yet. Details are still in the works. We'll run a few 5K races along the way. I'm going to do this program with my two daughters! Kerri is 22 and Kirstin is 19. I am thrilled they want to run. I think Kerri will be more serious about it, Kirstin is more of a free spirit and might not get too into it, we'll see. Kerri had a liver transplant 21 years ago so I'll worry about her hydrating on long runs in this Florida heat. Ok, I'll worry about her short runs too! Part of being a mom! Her meds can wreck havoc on her kidneys if her electrolytes get out of kilter. I'll be running behind her every step with a water bottle and gatorade....haha!
So....I have been solo on all my running these days. No runner's club, Mike went to Maine and Jim is extremely busy. I like running with people most of the time. Knowing I'd be running with someone on Fridays made it ok to run alone other days. I had something to look forward to. But alas!! I have found a very surprising side effect of running alone. With no one to talk to, I seem to have picked up some speed...
I did my core exercise class Friday morning, perfect warm up before a run. I was tired and lazy, almost just went home. I decided to do a slow 4 miles, I wanted to just get out there and enjoy the air. I ran about 3.8 miles and here's the exciting news...I ran it in 25:32. Almost 4 miles! I started off slow and steady, not really thinking about my speed. I actually remembered to hit my stopwatch (I'm trying to be better about that) When I looked at it at the 1 mile mark I couldn't believe it! 6:48! This first mile was short, about .1-ish though. Keep this in mind. I pushed my crazy thoughts out of my head, walked about a minute and took off again. Made it to mile marker 2 at 12:04. Yeah, I was thrilled! That was a true mile and it was faster. I am still so surprised. I took off again making it to mile 3 at 17:42. It felt like a dream. Still does. I had one mile to go and I was getting pretty tired by this point. I started to have my freaky obssessive thoughts, doing math in my head but I wanted to remember my times, so I refused to think about numbers and started running again. I got back to my starting point at 25:32. Remember though, this last mile was short by .1-ish also.
I kept running the times in my head as I did the cool down walk to my car. I wrote down my times so I'd remember them and then I started with my math craziness in my head. I still can't believe it. I went back in the gym to leave the paper on Jim's desk but I ran into him on the way. I showed him my watch (which I still haven't reset....LOL) He thought I just did 2 miles. It was so cool to tell him I did almost 4. He knows the route so I'm waiting to find out the exact mileage I ran. I would have been happy running 3 miles in 25:32!
When I think back to that run and pull it apart like I always do....I had a great warmup in the class and I remember I wasn't singing along to my iPod this time. I ALWAYS sing. It's the only time I'm by myself and won't hurt anyone's ears....lol. I was alone too, so no one to talk with or slow to look at stuff with. I had coffee and a banana before I got to the gym, then a water with a GU gel pack right before I ran. I didn't get any calf cramping this time either. I do have a lot on my mind these days, sleep has been elusive too. As I started running I just wanted to clear my mind and try to relax. I usually try to sort my mind while I run but I decided to just let everything go this time. No thinking.
I have this soothing relationship with music that lets me get completely inside it. There are some songs that I can actually feel envelope me sometimes. Usually I need to be laying down either by the pool, in the jaccuzzi or in bed. It's kind of like meditation I guess, only I can do it with any music. I had never thought to try it during activities. I'm thinking that when I shut my mind down and went into relaxation mode it let me just GO. I worry the excitement of running a race may not allow me to relax that way though....lol. I tend to get very excited in races. I also talk to people along the way. I only see some of these people at races, so it's the only time I CAN talk to them. I hope I haven't been bothering them! Yikes!!!
I guess I'll just have to wait and see if I can do it again.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Space Coast Marathon
I have registered for the Space Coast Marathon for November 30, 2008. I am very, very excited! It feels good to be committed once again to another goal. I will admit though, it's kinda the same feeling I got when I found out I was pregnant with my 2nd daughter. Which was a mixture of excitement, happiness and that feeling of "OH MY GOD! WHAT WAS I THINKING???" Hahaha!!
I went into the Sarasota Marathon not fully understanding what I was about to do.
I'm going into the Space Coast Marathon knowing full well what I just signed up for...a lot of hard work. A lot of training. One more thing to be proud of. And I'll be doing a couple things differently. Namely my diet. Nutrition is going to be a prime focus this time around. I have never been very good about eating in general. I sometimes forget to eat and at other times I eat until I have to go lay down. Just yesterday morning (oooh, a James Taylor song!) I was headed out the door for a gym class and my husband was still home. He asked me why I was working out without eating first. It didn't even occur to me that I hadn't! But I was already running a little late so I just left anyway. I was planning on running at the gym after class, but my husband's question stuck in my mind, so I went home to eat first. He's right, I need to make nutrition a priority. HEARD!!
Another thing I'll be doing is speed training mixed in with my long runs. Last time I was just going for endurance. I had never run before so I had a lot to learn in a very short time. I see that now. I also see I still have a lot to learn. I didn't even know what a tempo run was until last week.
I haven't really been doing much upper body workouts either. I plan to get in much better shape for this next marathon. I want some Sherry abs!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hey, maybe I'll be able to wear an outfit like Deana Kastor!!!! (yeah right...lol)
I have something to look forward to again. I love the excitement of the marathon. I love being a part of something that brings all kinds of people together. Men, women, young, old....every shape, size and color from all over the globe. It was so cool the morning of the Sarasota marathon to look out my motel window and see so many people walking over to the starting area. It reminded me of when I was too little to go to school yet and I'd watch all the kids walking by my house on their way to school. I wanted to go. I wanted to know where they were going and be a part of it too. That morning of the marathon, watching from the window, hearing my husband ask me if I was ready to go....I felt so happy that I could. I wanted to open the door and yell "WAIT FOR ME!" Instead, I walked hand in hand with Bobby, so thrilled to be there, so grateful to have a loving, supportive husband to see me off on that morning. I almost felt like that little girl again, so excited that I got to go.
And now I get to go again. Anybody want to come too?
I went into the Sarasota Marathon not fully understanding what I was about to do.
I'm going into the Space Coast Marathon knowing full well what I just signed up for...a lot of hard work. A lot of training. One more thing to be proud of. And I'll be doing a couple things differently. Namely my diet. Nutrition is going to be a prime focus this time around. I have never been very good about eating in general. I sometimes forget to eat and at other times I eat until I have to go lay down. Just yesterday morning (oooh, a James Taylor song!) I was headed out the door for a gym class and my husband was still home. He asked me why I was working out without eating first. It didn't even occur to me that I hadn't! But I was already running a little late so I just left anyway. I was planning on running at the gym after class, but my husband's question stuck in my mind, so I went home to eat first. He's right, I need to make nutrition a priority. HEARD!!
Another thing I'll be doing is speed training mixed in with my long runs. Last time I was just going for endurance. I had never run before so I had a lot to learn in a very short time. I see that now. I also see I still have a lot to learn. I didn't even know what a tempo run was until last week.
I haven't really been doing much upper body workouts either. I plan to get in much better shape for this next marathon. I want some Sherry abs!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hey, maybe I'll be able to wear an outfit like Deana Kastor!!!! (yeah right...lol)
I have something to look forward to again. I love the excitement of the marathon. I love being a part of something that brings all kinds of people together. Men, women, young, old....every shape, size and color from all over the globe. It was so cool the morning of the Sarasota marathon to look out my motel window and see so many people walking over to the starting area. It reminded me of when I was too little to go to school yet and I'd watch all the kids walking by my house on their way to school. I wanted to go. I wanted to know where they were going and be a part of it too. That morning of the marathon, watching from the window, hearing my husband ask me if I was ready to go....I felt so happy that I could. I wanted to open the door and yell "WAIT FOR ME!" Instead, I walked hand in hand with Bobby, so thrilled to be there, so grateful to have a loving, supportive husband to see me off on that morning. I almost felt like that little girl again, so excited that I got to go.
And now I get to go again. Anybody want to come too?
Monday, May 19, 2008
4 miler....
I just ran a 4 mile run. It's about 86 degrees out, pretty humid but that never really bothers me. I started out fast figuring I'd just try to kill myself....lol. I went 2 miles straight out with a 30 second walk at the 1 mile mark. I actually remembered to wear AND hit my stopwatch! I didn't look at my timer until I got to the 2 mile mark because I wanted to run without any pressure to hold a pace like that. Sometimes I can get obsessive with the timing thing. Not so much the actual time, but playing with the numbers. I add, subtract, multiply and divide the numbers so many times I wind up frustrated. That's the reason I hardly ever bring a watch on my runs. I decided I need to get past all that if I'm going to speed train though.
I hit the stopwatch at mile 2......17:52. Oooohhh....I like that number. So guess what I did? Yeah, I spent the next 2 miles trying to figure out the MM, then I multiplied THAT to figure a 5K estimate. Then I tried to figure how much slower I probably would get in a 5K, so I tacked a couple minutes onto THAT, just in case. THEN, as if I wasn't getting a headache from thinking so much, I tried to guess how long it was going to take me to finish my 4 miles. So you see why I don't like to time myself.
Anyway, I finished 4 miles at 38:42. Sub 9 mm. I like that. I think I'm ready to cash in my speed training tickets with my coach. I think I mentioned I won a bet with Jim a couple weeks ago. It was over a song. I was right and won 2 speed training sessions....yay!!! I'm R-E-A-D-Y!!!!!!
I hit the stopwatch at mile 2......17:52. Oooohhh....I like that number. So guess what I did? Yeah, I spent the next 2 miles trying to figure out the MM, then I multiplied THAT to figure a 5K estimate. Then I tried to figure how much slower I probably would get in a 5K, so I tacked a couple minutes onto THAT, just in case. THEN, as if I wasn't getting a headache from thinking so much, I tried to guess how long it was going to take me to finish my 4 miles. So you see why I don't like to time myself.
Anyway, I finished 4 miles at 38:42. Sub 9 mm. I like that. I think I'm ready to cash in my speed training tickets with my coach. I think I mentioned I won a bet with Jim a couple weeks ago. It was over a song. I was right and won 2 speed training sessions....yay!!! I'm R-E-A-D-Y!!!!!!
Monday
Last week was a crazy week, I didn't do any running after Tuesday's tempo. My list of stuff to do had me a little overwhelmed, but I'm baaaaack!!!
I went to my core class at the gym this morning. Sara instructed us, she's a sweetie. Sara works at the gym when she's off college so she's here for the summer. I was so looking forward to running with her but she has a stress fracture! She just got the boot off the other day, not sure when she'll be ready to run.
Mike is back from Italy. We run together (when we're not injured)....lol. The day he left my flexor healed, I swear! Then the day we were going to have a nice long run, he dumped his motorcycle and hurt his foot and leg. He had a couple runs since then but now his ankle hurts. He sees the doc this week too, but then he leaves Friday for Maine for 4 months. We'll be training for the Space Coast marathon in Nov. We'll have to keep tabs on each other!
My friend Ed is waiting to hear on the NY marathon lottery. If he doesn't get in, he's doing Space Coast too. My selfishness is in high gear. I want him to run Space Coast with me! Ed told me he'd help me pace it to finish in about 4 hours. Mike will be training for that time goal too so how COOL would that be????
It's a cloudy day here today. Perfect for a little run through the neighborhood. I have a bag of Doritos and 4 beers to run off from yesterday...
I went to my core class at the gym this morning. Sara instructed us, she's a sweetie. Sara works at the gym when she's off college so she's here for the summer. I was so looking forward to running with her but she has a stress fracture! She just got the boot off the other day, not sure when she'll be ready to run.
Mike is back from Italy. We run together (when we're not injured)....lol. The day he left my flexor healed, I swear! Then the day we were going to have a nice long run, he dumped his motorcycle and hurt his foot and leg. He had a couple runs since then but now his ankle hurts. He sees the doc this week too, but then he leaves Friday for Maine for 4 months. We'll be training for the Space Coast marathon in Nov. We'll have to keep tabs on each other!
My friend Ed is waiting to hear on the NY marathon lottery. If he doesn't get in, he's doing Space Coast too. My selfishness is in high gear. I want him to run Space Coast with me! Ed told me he'd help me pace it to finish in about 4 hours. Mike will be training for that time goal too so how COOL would that be????
It's a cloudy day here today. Perfect for a little run through the neighborhood. I have a bag of Doritos and 4 beers to run off from yesterday...
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Tempo Run
I went to the gym last night for a yoga class. I missed it by 30 minutes, my life story. But hey...it got me out of the house right after dinner time. That's a busy time of day at my house and I was more than happy to use yoga as an excuse to leave the dishes. Not that I need an excuse. I do it all the time. In fact....I decided they could wait until this morning, only I had to run out at 9am for a gym class with 2 meetings right after. I was going to clean up after the meetings but I was invited to lunch with some of my runner friends. So I went. I'm still full from that Philly cheesesteak. I'm glad I skipped helping Ed finish off his fries. When I got home the landscaper guy was waiting (working on a little surprise for my husband for Father's Day... Shhhhhhhhhh)
I couldn't let him in my house because of the dishes, so I guess I got punished for slacking....haha! Like I care....ANYWAY.....
Back to last night. My husband wanted to go for a bike ride but I won the "first out" because I had a scheduled yoga class. So he had to stay home with the kids and I pranced out the door....heehee
I met Michelle at the gym and we chatted for about 40 minutes. She's the one who told me I missed the class. I felt a twinge of guilt when I thought about Bobby pacing back and forth waiting for his turn, kids leaving a mess from dinner, dishes in the sink....but the twinge passed faster than a cramp in my calf. Out the back door of the gym I went, not a care in the world...lalalalaaaaaa
As I set up my iPod I decided to run the 3 miles home and have Bobby bring me back later to get my car. Then I thought I'd just do a 4 mile loopy. I started out at a slow pace, warming up when I felt a burst of energy. I decided to do some of those "frolics" I love so much. I ran as fast as I could for the length of the fence. I know most of you don't know how far that is, sorry, just know it's like....from here to there. Just about a telephone pole to pole distance. When I was out of breath I ran slow. I ran that way the first mile and was surprised to see it took me 7:38. Two songs. I turned around and ran the mile back to the gym the same way. That was 8:42. Two songs again, but the songs were longer than the 1st 2. (Still with me?)
As I walked to my car my coach was walking through the parking lot so I told (yelled across more like it) him what I just did. He said that's called a "tempo run". Hmmm....never heard of those but I like 'em. Left me feeling like I had a workout in a very short time. Invigorating.
As I was driving back home I passed a HOT biker. I looked again and saw that it was my husband. Man I love those bike shorts. I pulled over, he turned around and I ran back to him. We smooched in the street, both of us a little sweaty, kinda romantic. Then I asked him where he stashed the kids. My 19 yr old came home so she was with them. Lucky break for Bobby!!!
I mentioned before that I've only ever run to train for a marathon. That was for endurance and pacing, never speed, so this is all new stuff for me. I like it! It a renewed sense of learning and it's so interesting. I'm getting pumped just thinking about running fast. There's a race this Saturday but it starts late. I have to work at 9am and I won't get back in time. Kinda bummed about that. My husband reminded me I can't run ALL the races. NO FAIR!
Well...I gotta go do the dishes. Some stuff I can't get out of. Dishes are just one of them.
I couldn't let him in my house because of the dishes, so I guess I got punished for slacking....haha! Like I care....ANYWAY.....
Back to last night. My husband wanted to go for a bike ride but I won the "first out" because I had a scheduled yoga class. So he had to stay home with the kids and I pranced out the door....heehee
I met Michelle at the gym and we chatted for about 40 minutes. She's the one who told me I missed the class. I felt a twinge of guilt when I thought about Bobby pacing back and forth waiting for his turn, kids leaving a mess from dinner, dishes in the sink....but the twinge passed faster than a cramp in my calf. Out the back door of the gym I went, not a care in the world...lalalalaaaaaa
As I set up my iPod I decided to run the 3 miles home and have Bobby bring me back later to get my car. Then I thought I'd just do a 4 mile loopy. I started out at a slow pace, warming up when I felt a burst of energy. I decided to do some of those "frolics" I love so much. I ran as fast as I could for the length of the fence. I know most of you don't know how far that is, sorry, just know it's like....from here to there. Just about a telephone pole to pole distance. When I was out of breath I ran slow. I ran that way the first mile and was surprised to see it took me 7:38. Two songs. I turned around and ran the mile back to the gym the same way. That was 8:42. Two songs again, but the songs were longer than the 1st 2. (Still with me?)
As I walked to my car my coach was walking through the parking lot so I told (yelled across more like it) him what I just did. He said that's called a "tempo run". Hmmm....never heard of those but I like 'em. Left me feeling like I had a workout in a very short time. Invigorating.
As I was driving back home I passed a HOT biker. I looked again and saw that it was my husband. Man I love those bike shorts. I pulled over, he turned around and I ran back to him. We smooched in the street, both of us a little sweaty, kinda romantic. Then I asked him where he stashed the kids. My 19 yr old came home so she was with them. Lucky break for Bobby!!!
I mentioned before that I've only ever run to train for a marathon. That was for endurance and pacing, never speed, so this is all new stuff for me. I like it! It a renewed sense of learning and it's so interesting. I'm getting pumped just thinking about running fast. There's a race this Saturday but it starts late. I have to work at 9am and I won't get back in time. Kinda bummed about that. My husband reminded me I can't run ALL the races. NO FAIR!
Well...I gotta go do the dishes. Some stuff I can't get out of. Dishes are just one of them.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Shaving My 5K....
As I have already posted, I ran a 5K last weekend for kids with cleft palates. It was called The Smile Train and it raised $3000. It only takes $250 per child, so it will help 12 kids. I feel so good about that. Some of you may know I have a child who received a liver transplant when she was a year old. She'll be 22 in July!!! Over the years of spending so much time in New England Med Center in Boston, we saw many, many kids who needed so much. It was both heart breaking and a gift to have met all of them and their families. This race was a special one.
I went back and looked up all my 5K times (and one 4 miler)...
45:48...4 miler...Scholorship Run on Dec '07
31:05...Resolution run 5K in Jan '08
30:52...5K Lamarque Feb '08
30:50...5K Boca Grande Feb '08
29:04...5K Smile Train May '08 (my new PR....for now)
They SLIGHTLY get better each time, and I'm HAPPY with that, BUT...all of a sudden I'm feeling a whole lot of ambition to really make a difference on the next one. I have some speed training coming and I'm going to make the best of it!!
My coach, Jim, is starting a training program for a half marathon coming up in September. My two older daughters are signing up and I thought it would be AWESOME to go through the training with them. I'm so excited by this. I ask them everyday if they're really going to do it. They keep saying "Yes Mom"....LOL. They're even getting some matching Asics....YAY!!!! They don't know it yet but we're going to wear matching outfits too.....heehee. This is starting in June. I think it will help my speed too.
My friend Sherry has posted her FANTASTIC tri results here http://awomaninmotion.blogspot.com/ Check out her exciting post!! We're all so very proud of you Sherry!!! And here's to Scott's speedy recovery so he can get back into it with you.
My coach is also a very talented singer/songwriter. One of my favorite songs is called "Destiny" and he let me make a little video for it on youtube. Go check that out here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qa3m7l6j2VI I had a lot of fun making it, let me know what you think! It's about making choices, taking roads that lead to great things. Good song to run to and reflect with.
Happy running!!!
I went back and looked up all my 5K times (and one 4 miler)...
45:48...4 miler...Scholorship Run on Dec '07
31:05...Resolution run 5K in Jan '08
30:52...5K Lamarque Feb '08
30:50...5K Boca Grande Feb '08
29:04...5K Smile Train May '08 (my new PR....for now)
They SLIGHTLY get better each time, and I'm HAPPY with that, BUT...all of a sudden I'm feeling a whole lot of ambition to really make a difference on the next one. I have some speed training coming and I'm going to make the best of it!!
My coach, Jim, is starting a training program for a half marathon coming up in September. My two older daughters are signing up and I thought it would be AWESOME to go through the training with them. I'm so excited by this. I ask them everyday if they're really going to do it. They keep saying "Yes Mom"....LOL. They're even getting some matching Asics....YAY!!!! They don't know it yet but we're going to wear matching outfits too.....heehee. This is starting in June. I think it will help my speed too.
My friend Sherry has posted her FANTASTIC tri results here http://awomaninmotion.blogspot.com/ Check out her exciting post!! We're all so very proud of you Sherry!!! And here's to Scott's speedy recovery so he can get back into it with you.
My coach is also a very talented singer/songwriter. One of my favorite songs is called "Destiny" and he let me make a little video for it on youtube. Go check that out here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qa3m7l6j2VI I had a lot of fun making it, let me know what you think! It's about making choices, taking roads that lead to great things. Good song to run to and reflect with.
Happy running!!!
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