Here it is Friday around noon. I've not run at all this week. So the goal for this week is not going to be met. I'm OK with that. I've stepped back and noticed some other things that need to be paid attention to right now.
Running isn't one of my favorite things. I need to work to get myself out there. This week has been rough because of dealing with truck problems, bike problems, and as of last night phone problems. So with all this other stuff going on, I can't get the energy to get myself out to run.
I'm an emotional eater. When things start getting bad, I will eat. I will eat things that don't taste great, and are bad for me. When things get really rough, I gain weight. Which, in turn, makes me depressed more, and the cycle becomes a spiral and heads downward quickly. It then becomes hard to break out of.
This is where I'm at now. In the spiral. I know this. I know what needs to be done to stop all of this from continuing on. But, it's hard to break that spiral. Emotions is stronger than logic (try arguing with someone who is very emotionally upset about something, using logic.)
I don't want to be here, in this spiral. It makes me tired, lazy, fatter and just all around unhappy. There is a lot I want to do this year and next, but this spiral is pointed the wrong direction to make this happen...
I am declaring war. War on my health. Mental. Emotional. Physical. It's all getting a make over and attitude adjustment. This weekend the war plan will be formulated and the execution of said plan will commence immediately forth with!
Some people have said my previous posts were kind of rough on myself. I reread them and didn't think they were rough at all. And I don't think this one is rough on me either. It's the simple truth of where I'm at, and what needs to be done to fix things. I'm not upset at myself, I just know now is the time to make the changes needed to find the happy Steve that dwells inside.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Rough Time Lately
Last week I didn't make my goal exactly. I missed out on running five days. But I had five runs in. I doubled up on Thursday because I knew I wasn't going to get a run in on Saturday because of having to take my truck in for supposedly an oil change.
I got to the dealership to get the 115k service (just basic oil change and some other things) and waited around. I did tell them that there was some funky squeaking happening as well so they were going to look into that. After waiting for three hours they came back to me and let me know what was going on. Needed water pump replaced and some bushings on the tie-rods and struts and stuff (not a car guy so no real clue here.) This immediately brought me into a bit of a depression. Broken trucks and bad finances will always do this.
Sunday, went out biking, and got in 20 miles in about an hour forty. I was feeling pretty down still and this ride was actually pretty hard. A 20 mile ride shouldn't be that hard at this point. So, that contributes to the downward spiral.
Monday morning, I wake up at the alarm, and hear it raining and decide I didn't really want to go through the hassle of getting dress to run in the rain. Plus I was really feeling the bike in my legs still. So I went back to sleep with the plan of going running in the evening. Everyone talks about getting your work out done in the morning because something may come up later in the day which makes you miss out on it. And this was definitely true yesterday. I had a scheduled meeting after work, and because of the weather it got delayed about 30 minutes. Then it also went on a bit longer than I had anticipated at this time as well. But that's ok, still plenty of time to go run. Get into my truck, and the battery is dead. Crap. So my mood sinks again, and running is completely out now.
I call up Triple-A and they come out in about an hour, and I get going. Running is out, because it's too late, I would be too wired from it to be able to sleep. Plus I just don't feel like it at all. I stop at Whataburger for dinner. It didn't really taste great, but it was comforting. Yup, I eat crap when I need comforting even when it doesn't taste good.
I get home, and get everything ready so I can run in the morning. It will be a new day and things are going to be good tomorrow!
Alarm goes off at 4am, and it awakes me from a dream where some lady crashed into my truck because she was driving down the wrong side of the road. While waiting for the cops to show, I find out she has no insurance I start going into a bit of a rage fit, but before anything really happens, that's when the alarm went off. So I wake up pissed off. And my knee is locked. I slept funny and it won't move or anything. And I also have a bunch of blood in my mouth from biting through my tongue again. Great start to the day. I'm going back to sleep.
My goal for this week is in a flux, I'm not sure I will make it. But, goals are things to reach for. And the real goal is 3 miles a day, 5 days a week for 2011. There will be weeks when I don't make that happen. There will be weeks when I do make it happen. And I expect down the road, I will have much more mileage than just 3 miles a day. So, I will continue to reach for this goal.
I will also take lessons learned here, to always make sure to get that run in, in the morning, because YES, you don't know what will happen through out the day, which may cause you to miss out on the run or whatever.
Another lesson is some times you do need to just step back and take a break, breathe a little and don't worry about hitting all your goals bang on. In the end it doesn't really matter, as long as you can keep yourself happy and continue to be happy doing what you are doing. Don't beat yourself up because you missed out on a work out, or a financial goal in a certain time or something. Life happens, and it passes you by while you are berating yourself. Something happens deal with it, move past it and get on with the good stuff again.
Supposedly I will be going running after work tonight if my knee behaves it self. If not, then definitely in the morning. We shall see if it happens or not either way. It is OK.
I got to the dealership to get the 115k service (just basic oil change and some other things) and waited around. I did tell them that there was some funky squeaking happening as well so they were going to look into that. After waiting for three hours they came back to me and let me know what was going on. Needed water pump replaced and some bushings on the tie-rods and struts and stuff (not a car guy so no real clue here.) This immediately brought me into a bit of a depression. Broken trucks and bad finances will always do this.
Sunday, went out biking, and got in 20 miles in about an hour forty. I was feeling pretty down still and this ride was actually pretty hard. A 20 mile ride shouldn't be that hard at this point. So, that contributes to the downward spiral.
Monday morning, I wake up at the alarm, and hear it raining and decide I didn't really want to go through the hassle of getting dress to run in the rain. Plus I was really feeling the bike in my legs still. So I went back to sleep with the plan of going running in the evening. Everyone talks about getting your work out done in the morning because something may come up later in the day which makes you miss out on it. And this was definitely true yesterday. I had a scheduled meeting after work, and because of the weather it got delayed about 30 minutes. Then it also went on a bit longer than I had anticipated at this time as well. But that's ok, still plenty of time to go run. Get into my truck, and the battery is dead. Crap. So my mood sinks again, and running is completely out now.
I call up Triple-A and they come out in about an hour, and I get going. Running is out, because it's too late, I would be too wired from it to be able to sleep. Plus I just don't feel like it at all. I stop at Whataburger for dinner. It didn't really taste great, but it was comforting. Yup, I eat crap when I need comforting even when it doesn't taste good.
I get home, and get everything ready so I can run in the morning. It will be a new day and things are going to be good tomorrow!
Alarm goes off at 4am, and it awakes me from a dream where some lady crashed into my truck because she was driving down the wrong side of the road. While waiting for the cops to show, I find out she has no insurance I start going into a bit of a rage fit, but before anything really happens, that's when the alarm went off. So I wake up pissed off. And my knee is locked. I slept funny and it won't move or anything. And I also have a bunch of blood in my mouth from biting through my tongue again. Great start to the day. I'm going back to sleep.
My goal for this week is in a flux, I'm not sure I will make it. But, goals are things to reach for. And the real goal is 3 miles a day, 5 days a week for 2011. There will be weeks when I don't make that happen. There will be weeks when I do make it happen. And I expect down the road, I will have much more mileage than just 3 miles a day. So, I will continue to reach for this goal.
I will also take lessons learned here, to always make sure to get that run in, in the morning, because YES, you don't know what will happen through out the day, which may cause you to miss out on the run or whatever.
Another lesson is some times you do need to just step back and take a break, breathe a little and don't worry about hitting all your goals bang on. In the end it doesn't really matter, as long as you can keep yourself happy and continue to be happy doing what you are doing. Don't beat yourself up because you missed out on a work out, or a financial goal in a certain time or something. Life happens, and it passes you by while you are berating yourself. Something happens deal with it, move past it and get on with the good stuff again.
Supposedly I will be going running after work tonight if my knee behaves it self. If not, then definitely in the morning. We shall see if it happens or not either way. It is OK.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Running Times Two
Woke up this morning when the alarm went off at 4am. I grumbled. I was exhausted. I was set to reset the alarm when I remembered that this morning I was actually meeting someone at 5 to run, so up I got. Headed to Memorial and was cursing the clouds since it was a full moon last night. It would have been awesome to run in that moonlight. Oh well.
Met up with my running partner and off we went. We chatted and I didn't have much problem at all today keeping with her. I'm not sure if she slowed down a bit because she was running with me, or was just taking it easy, but yeah today was much easier than when we ran the first time week ago this last Monday. It did take us longer, and I noticed when I uploaded the data off my watch that we were running 9:30s instead of the 8:30s last time. Will have to ask about that when we meet up on Monday again. "Make me work! I need the push!" But was also glad it was easy since my plan was to run trails tonight as well.
That's right. You heard me. Or saw me as this case is. Two runs in one day! I did it because I forgot I was going to run with my morning running partner until after I had already posted saying I was going to run trails. So in case anyone showed up (and no one did) I would be at the trails to run with them.
It was colder tonight running than it was this morning too. There was quite a wind blowing which I have problems with. I can handle cold, cold and wet. But not wind. That just cuts right through me, so I bundled up in my big fleecy orange shirt and a wind breaker. And off I went. The trails were closed so I hopped the fence (relax!) and ran down Purple until it came to the trail that has logs across it to keep the bikers off, and heads towards the railroad tracks. I ran along the tracks to the street and then down to the Triangle since it doesn't close. I figured a nice quick lap of that and back would get me about three miles. Of course it had been a loooong time since I've been to the triangle. And it's always been on bike before. I found a trail that I wasn't familiar with at all and it took me to the horse stables of the polo field. Oops. No idea where I was on the trails at this point and was also pretty close to the 3 mile mark at this time, along with thoughts of "this is going to turn into a 6 mile run!"
I back tracked my steps to where the road and trail met and found another trail, and it was short and sweet and dumped me at the rail road tracks. Cool! And I followed that and it went straight to Memorial Drive and was a lot closer than I was expecting! So my 3 mile run, which I was starting to think was going to turn into a 6 mile at least turned into only at 3.7 mile run. Which I did in about 42 minutes. Not too shabby considering I did a little walking wondering where I was going, and hopping over logs and through tunnels and such. And it was ... enjoyable. I definitely will have to be doing a lot more trail running if I want to keep with my running goals.
Speaking of. I may not make my 5 days this week, so I'm cheating a little bit and using one of my two runs today as a second run. It's going to depend on what happens with my truck on Saturday as I need to take it into the shop for it's 115k checkup. Hopefully won't take too long and I can get a quick run in, but if not, then yeah, I'm fudging my numbers a bit, and am OK with that.
Met up with my running partner and off we went. We chatted and I didn't have much problem at all today keeping with her. I'm not sure if she slowed down a bit because she was running with me, or was just taking it easy, but yeah today was much easier than when we ran the first time week ago this last Monday. It did take us longer, and I noticed when I uploaded the data off my watch that we were running 9:30s instead of the 8:30s last time. Will have to ask about that when we meet up on Monday again. "Make me work! I need the push!" But was also glad it was easy since my plan was to run trails tonight as well.
That's right. You heard me. Or saw me as this case is. Two runs in one day! I did it because I forgot I was going to run with my morning running partner until after I had already posted saying I was going to run trails. So in case anyone showed up (and no one did) I would be at the trails to run with them.
It was colder tonight running than it was this morning too. There was quite a wind blowing which I have problems with. I can handle cold, cold and wet. But not wind. That just cuts right through me, so I bundled up in my big fleecy orange shirt and a wind breaker. And off I went. The trails were closed so I hopped the fence (relax!) and ran down Purple until it came to the trail that has logs across it to keep the bikers off, and heads towards the railroad tracks. I ran along the tracks to the street and then down to the Triangle since it doesn't close. I figured a nice quick lap of that and back would get me about three miles. Of course it had been a loooong time since I've been to the triangle. And it's always been on bike before. I found a trail that I wasn't familiar with at all and it took me to the horse stables of the polo field. Oops. No idea where I was on the trails at this point and was also pretty close to the 3 mile mark at this time, along with thoughts of "this is going to turn into a 6 mile run!"
I back tracked my steps to where the road and trail met and found another trail, and it was short and sweet and dumped me at the rail road tracks. Cool! And I followed that and it went straight to Memorial Drive and was a lot closer than I was expecting! So my 3 mile run, which I was starting to think was going to turn into a 6 mile at least turned into only at 3.7 mile run. Which I did in about 42 minutes. Not too shabby considering I did a little walking wondering where I was going, and hopping over logs and through tunnels and such. And it was ... enjoyable. I definitely will have to be doing a lot more trail running if I want to keep with my running goals.
Speaking of. I may not make my 5 days this week, so I'm cheating a little bit and using one of my two runs today as a second run. It's going to depend on what happens with my truck on Saturday as I need to take it into the shop for it's 115k checkup. Hopefully won't take too long and I can get a quick run in, but if not, then yeah, I'm fudging my numbers a bit, and am OK with that.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Lack of Biking Motivation
It seems I'm currently lacking motivation to really bike. This isn't so great, considering I have quite a few miles to ride in May. I did get on it, and I did about 11 miles in 45ish minutes. Fairly slow and easy going, but I was very tired from the run this morning and non stop go go go all day. I almost fell asleep at my desk the last two hours of work.
I'm starting to think I might have to nap at work during lunch so I get energized for my afternoon workouts after early morning ones. I'm doing a double run tomorrow so we shall see how I feel for that second run which will be a trail run.
At least I'm not lacking motivation for the running these days, so that's good. Just sad I am on the bike since I like it most. But I'm sure once things start flowing again with a routine that will change and I will be hammer out the miles without second thoughts!
I'm starting to think I might have to nap at work during lunch so I get energized for my afternoon workouts after early morning ones. I'm doing a double run tomorrow so we shall see how I feel for that second run which will be a trail run.
At least I'm not lacking motivation for the running these days, so that's good. Just sad I am on the bike since I like it most. But I'm sure once things start flowing again with a routine that will change and I will be hammer out the miles without second thoughts!
Early Morning Run in the Moon Light
First favourite way to run is in the rain. But after this morning a very close second is now running under neath a (near)full moon. The bright glow of the moon radiating on the still earth that early (4:45am) in the morning was positively brilliant.
My run sucked still, but it was a good run. Did the 3.04 miles in 27:03, so yeah, not horrible. Mile paces: 8:37, 9:04, 8:54. So yeah, not horrible at all. The first mile did feel more fluid than I did last night, and it slowly got rougher, but over all it was more fluid feeling.
If you get the chance, go out and run in the moonlight.
My run sucked still, but it was a good run. Did the 3.04 miles in 27:03, so yeah, not horrible. Mile paces: 8:37, 9:04, 8:54. So yeah, not horrible at all. The first mile did feel more fluid than I did last night, and it slowly got rougher, but over all it was more fluid feeling.
If you get the chance, go out and run in the moonlight.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Still Feeling Off
So I am still feeling off. Running felt pretty crappy too because of it. But, I did get out there and do it. And today the Suunto decided to work again correctly, so I got my stats and realized no wonder it was a bit rough. The first mile was done at 8:35, followed by 9:02 and then 8:58. I was hoping for a nice easy run, and that wasn't really it.
While I was running I felt like a lumbering troll. Everything just seemed to be moving awkward like. I need to refind the fluid motion I once had, even if it didn't look like it, it felt fluid to me. That made runs a bit more enjoyable. But ah well. I'm still out there running and that's what's counting!
It's late, I'm tired. Night!
While I was running I felt like a lumbering troll. Everything just seemed to be moving awkward like. I need to refind the fluid motion I once had, even if it didn't look like it, it felt fluid to me. That made runs a bit more enjoyable. But ah well. I'm still out there running and that's what's counting!
It's late, I'm tired. Night!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Don't Feel Like It.
I didn't get up this morning to run. The person I was suppose to run Mon/Wed emailed last night saying they weren't going to because they had the day off and wanted to bike instead. So, that has been one run out of three since saying we were going to do it. So much for accountability there. Plus I was just totally exhausted, so the sleep was good.
I woke up in a blah mood, didn't want to go run after work. Work was blah, still didn't want to go run after work. After work was blah and still didn't want to go run. But I ran. Don't really feel like blogging about it, but oh well, I ran so I should write it up here. I had forgotten my watch at home, so no exact distances (not that I would have probably had them since it's been flakey lately.) and just used my iPod's stop watch to time myself on the loop at Memorial. 26:41 was my time. So my nice and easy run tonight was my fastest in a while. There were no stops no walking no nothing, I just ran. While running I didn't want to be running. Hopefully tomorrow I will not be so blah and things will be good again.
I woke up in a blah mood, didn't want to go run after work. Work was blah, still didn't want to go run after work. After work was blah and still didn't want to go run. But I ran. Don't really feel like blogging about it, but oh well, I ran so I should write it up here. I had forgotten my watch at home, so no exact distances (not that I would have probably had them since it's been flakey lately.) and just used my iPod's stop watch to time myself on the loop at Memorial. 26:41 was my time. So my nice and easy run tonight was my fastest in a while. There were no stops no walking no nothing, I just ran. While running I didn't want to be running. Hopefully tomorrow I will not be so blah and things will be good again.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Gooooooaaaaallll!
Did it! Got my first weekly goal done of the year! 5 runs of at least three miles! It was pretty rough today though.
I woke up not able to breathe very well at all. My asthma was effecting me and I think there was also some allergy issues at work. I've been pretty bad lately at taking my Claritin so I'm sure with the whacky weather, it's the root cause of it. But I do plan on seeking out an Asthma specialist and getting my Asthma completely under control soon, which should help a bit.
Last night I said I wouldn't run only if my leg was broken, well, leg wasn't broken so I went for my run, even though I couldn't breathe. I really did hum and haw on going, but decided I really wanted to reach my weekly goal this week, so out the door to Memorial Park I went.
I got there, and I'm still struggling a bit with that breathing thing, but it's better and manageable. Off I went, running down the path. It didn't feel too bad considering I had ran 4 days already this week. I was a bit tight, but loosened up quickly. I managed to get about 1/2 way around the loop before I had to walk because of my breathing issues. I walked for a minute or two and started up again, and managed to only slow down to a walk when I took a drink until the last mile. That's when I had to slow down a couple more times just to get breathing under control. But, I managed the full loop and got my three miles in today to complete my weekly goal! I did it in 27:36, which, considering the slow downs and walks I did was pretty good!
I came home and cooked up a nice pork cutlet with red potato hash browns and fried egg with toast and pomegranate green tea for recovery foods. Yum!
Now I can veg out the rest of the weekend! (not)
Here's the weekly stats:
I woke up not able to breathe very well at all. My asthma was effecting me and I think there was also some allergy issues at work. I've been pretty bad lately at taking my Claritin so I'm sure with the whacky weather, it's the root cause of it. But I do plan on seeking out an Asthma specialist and getting my Asthma completely under control soon, which should help a bit.
Last night I said I wouldn't run only if my leg was broken, well, leg wasn't broken so I went for my run, even though I couldn't breathe. I really did hum and haw on going, but decided I really wanted to reach my weekly goal this week, so out the door to Memorial Park I went.
I got there, and I'm still struggling a bit with that breathing thing, but it's better and manageable. Off I went, running down the path. It didn't feel too bad considering I had ran 4 days already this week. I was a bit tight, but loosened up quickly. I managed to get about 1/2 way around the loop before I had to walk because of my breathing issues. I walked for a minute or two and started up again, and managed to only slow down to a walk when I took a drink until the last mile. That's when I had to slow down a couple more times just to get breathing under control. But, I managed the full loop and got my three miles in today to complete my weekly goal! I did it in 27:36, which, considering the slow downs and walks I did was pretty good!
I came home and cooked up a nice pork cutlet with red potato hash browns and fried egg with toast and pomegranate green tea for recovery foods. Yum!
Now I can veg out the rest of the weekend! (not)
Here's the weekly stats:
| Day | Miles | Time | Avg Pace |
| Monday | 3.13 | 28:48 | 9:12 |
| Tuesday | 3.01 | 27:15 | 9:03 |
| Thursday | 3.27 | 41:56 | 12:49 |
| Friday | 3.01 | 27:01 | 8:58 |
| Saturday | 3.01 | 27:26 | 9:10 |
| Totals | 15.43 | 2:32:26 | 9:50 (avg) |
I am hoping that next weekend I can add a long run, of 6 miles to this. But we shall see how things progress this week. Definitely off to a good start!
Friday, January 14, 2011
Running in the Rain and Suunto is Unhappy
Today was run number four of the week. I've almost reached my first full weekly goal of 2011! Just one more run and I will have done it. One week out of two, isn't bad, 50/50 is a good result for me at this time! But I won't be counting those eggs just yet.
Had a decent run today, it started to rain while I was out there running the Memorial Jogging Path, which made it more enjoyable for me. Not sure why, but the more miserable the weather out there, the more I enjoy the run. Yes, I'm odd, but most of you (is there anyone out there?) probably already knew that. It was just a nice easy run, one three mile lap in 27:01. So that was a nice time for getting back into things especially since last week I couldn't even run the entire thing.
I'm not sure what my paces were for the mile splits, because my Suunto T6c is acting up again. It took about 10+ minutes to get linked to the satellites. This seems to be happening more and more frequently. I've not done any research on it yet. Just change batteries and hope for the best. I might have to think about changing out for a different GPS+HRM system. But we shall see what happens there.
Sort of looking forward to my run tomorrow. Will mean meeting my goal of running for at least one out of the 52 weeks this year. So, here's to hoping I don't break a leg in my sleep!
Had a decent run today, it started to rain while I was out there running the Memorial Jogging Path, which made it more enjoyable for me. Not sure why, but the more miserable the weather out there, the more I enjoy the run. Yes, I'm odd, but most of you (is there anyone out there?) probably already knew that. It was just a nice easy run, one three mile lap in 27:01. So that was a nice time for getting back into things especially since last week I couldn't even run the entire thing.
I'm not sure what my paces were for the mile splits, because my Suunto T6c is acting up again. It took about 10+ minutes to get linked to the satellites. This seems to be happening more and more frequently. I've not done any research on it yet. Just change batteries and hope for the best. I might have to think about changing out for a different GPS+HRM system. But we shall see what happens there.
Sort of looking forward to my run tomorrow. Will mean meeting my goal of running for at least one out of the 52 weeks this year. So, here's to hoping I don't break a leg in my sleep!
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Biking and Running
So I didn't get my entry in yesterday for my biking as I just ran out of time and fell asleep early. And now it's late and I'm tired but need to get this off before I get too far behind.
Had a nice chilly bike yesterday. I did my first lap and realized I needed more layers, so quickly stopped tossed on my fuzzy orange shirt and that was much better. About a month ago I did buy a nice cycling jacket specifically for protecting against the wind and rain during these cooler months, and it definitely is doing it's job well. So quite pleased with that purchase. The biking wasn't overly great, but I got 13.5 miles in. I bonked at mile 12, and figured it was time to stop before something stupid happened. I definitely need a lot more saddle time ASAP! As well as getting better at my nutrition again, since I'm bonking after twelve miles, which is pretty bad! But over all it wasn't bad.
Today, I ran in the trails a bit. Was a nice change of pace. I think I will feel it tomorrow, as I'm not use to that kind of movement. And I can say that I definitely enjoy running trails much more than I do road. The extra challenges of dodging the roots and hills and rocks and low hanging branches... Forgot about those ones I did. I had a good reintroduction to what it's like to run into a branch with my head. Then as I grabbed my head in pain, I kind of forgot I had a bike bottle in my hand and stuck the spout into my eye. Talk about a double whammy! (Yes you may laugh, as this is funny and I'm sure the sight of it all was hilarious!)
For those of you familiar with MP, I ran from the rugby pitch, to Yellow, keeping left. Then left at Purple and left onto Orange immediately there. Ran along that until Purple popped up, then left until Orange intersected, followed that to where it dumped out onto Purple again. Then I ran Purple back to where Orange dumped out onto Purple, ran Orange back to where I started on Orange, and then back on to Yellow, to Purple then out onto the rugby pitch again. So it was sort of an out and back, just ran Purple back instead of the little Orange trail, to make sure I got some mileage in.
As it turns out, I ended up running about 3.25 miles in 41 minutes. Which isn't bad, as I was taking it slow and several stops and walk breaks. I will keep this path in mind and try it again in a couple weeks to see if there is much improvement. I like how technical it is without being too technical at this time since I'm so prone to injury running trails when first starting out.
Tomorrow should be a nice boring run on the jogging path again to get loose and ready for a longerish run on Saturday.
Had a nice chilly bike yesterday. I did my first lap and realized I needed more layers, so quickly stopped tossed on my fuzzy orange shirt and that was much better. About a month ago I did buy a nice cycling jacket specifically for protecting against the wind and rain during these cooler months, and it definitely is doing it's job well. So quite pleased with that purchase. The biking wasn't overly great, but I got 13.5 miles in. I bonked at mile 12, and figured it was time to stop before something stupid happened. I definitely need a lot more saddle time ASAP! As well as getting better at my nutrition again, since I'm bonking after twelve miles, which is pretty bad! But over all it wasn't bad.
Today, I ran in the trails a bit. Was a nice change of pace. I think I will feel it tomorrow, as I'm not use to that kind of movement. And I can say that I definitely enjoy running trails much more than I do road. The extra challenges of dodging the roots and hills and rocks and low hanging branches... Forgot about those ones I did. I had a good reintroduction to what it's like to run into a branch with my head. Then as I grabbed my head in pain, I kind of forgot I had a bike bottle in my hand and stuck the spout into my eye. Talk about a double whammy! (Yes you may laugh, as this is funny and I'm sure the sight of it all was hilarious!)
For those of you familiar with MP, I ran from the rugby pitch, to Yellow, keeping left. Then left at Purple and left onto Orange immediately there. Ran along that until Purple popped up, then left until Orange intersected, followed that to where it dumped out onto Purple again. Then I ran Purple back to where Orange dumped out onto Purple, ran Orange back to where I started on Orange, and then back on to Yellow, to Purple then out onto the rugby pitch again. So it was sort of an out and back, just ran Purple back instead of the little Orange trail, to make sure I got some mileage in.
As it turns out, I ended up running about 3.25 miles in 41 minutes. Which isn't bad, as I was taking it slow and several stops and walk breaks. I will keep this path in mind and try it again in a couple weeks to see if there is much improvement. I like how technical it is without being too technical at this time since I'm so prone to injury running trails when first starting out.
Tomorrow should be a nice boring run on the jogging path again to get loose and ready for a longerish run on Saturday.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Refresher on Running Etiquette
Today class, I would like to go over some basic running etiquette. Brought about from todays run (more on this later.)
1) When running on the trail, side walk, whatever, run no more than two abreast. If on single track, then single file please. This makes room for people coming from the opposite direction. If you do happen to be running more than single file, then when you see people coming at you from the opposite direction, and you are in their way, then YOU move out of their way by going single file!
2) Keep right when not running on the road. The reason for running on the left side of the road, is for safety reasons. You move away from the vehicles that you can't see, and move towards the one you can see. This allows you to dodge idiot drivers, instead of them hitting you. When on the trails or side walks or whatever, on this continent, we drive on the right, so we run on the right. Everyone around you is running on the right, and this is a good instance to be a sheep and join in for safety. Big people don't like to dodge idiots, so we run through you (more on this later.)
3) If you need to spit or blow a snot rocket, look around and make sure you won't nail someone else with your bodily fluids. We don't want to know what they feel like. We have our own that we are trying to get rid of, no need to add yours to ours.
OK. Everyone clear on those? Good.
Moving on.
Today's run was not too bad. I actually made the entire loop without stopping. And that included when I collided with someone. They were running 4 abreast and didn't move out of my path, and at this time I was tired of the people in my way, so I didn't slow, or move, I just was doing my own run in my own lane. About half a mile earlier there were 3 people walking on the wrong side of the path, and I went around them shaking my head and decided that was dumb. Then when I saw this next joker, I decided screw it, he was moving I wasn't since I didn't have any place left to go. So I ran through him. It was a hard thud on my arm that I felt. I heard some kind of noise, but didn't look back because I was too busy having a good run. There. I said it. I had a good run.
I did the three miles in about 27:15 or so I think (I haven't checked the watch yet) and yeah, it felt good. The last mile felt really long though, but it got done with out a walk break. So, I am finally pleased with a run this year. Things are looking good!
Tomorrow morning's run should be interesting. 25F at 5am. I wonder how many people will be out there in the (actual) freezing temps. This kid for one will be just to see who's there and to enjoy the rare cold down here (=
Monday, January 10, 2011
Weekend Camping and Todays Run
Well this weekend was spent at Hill Country State Natural Area near Bandera, Texas. It was a lot of fun. The Bandera 25k, 50k and 100k was going on this weekend so went up there to check it out and to cheer on the friends that were there running the various races. While I didn't do any running this weekend, I did do some hiking. It ended up being close to 5 miles of very hilly and rocky terrain that was hiked in amongst the runners. Then afterwards did another 2ish mile walk down the road. So while there was no running, the legs were still moving and so I think that counts, especially in those hills. Reminded me of almost like back home. It was a good weekend!
This morning I was up at the crack of too damn early, and went running. First morning run in a long time. I met up with someone who is also training for IMTX, we are going to meet Mon and Wed to hold each other accountable for getting there and getting our runs in. She's much faster and more along in her running (as she's a runner!) so hopefully she doesn't get to sick of me tagging a long as much as I can. But because she was there, I got up and ran. And it wasn't a horrible run. She did push me, and we did the proper 3 mile loop, starting at mile zero and ran around to the mile 3 marker which is past the zero mile marker, since the loops isn't quite 3 miles. My GPS tracked us at 3.11 miles though so not sure who to believe here. But either way, did it in under 28 minutes and it was longer than my previous runs so it was all good. It was good to be running in the morning again. Hopefully I can continue this and be able to get my morning runs in again!
Next run planned is tomorrow after work. So, no chance in missing out that one! Unless I over sleep at work and miss going home!
Update: (9:50pm 1/10/2011)
Just uploaded the stats from my watch and realized the first two miles were done at a pace of 8:34 and 8:22, no wonder I was hurting! The last mile was 10:22 because of that short walking break. So yeah, if I can keep that up, I will be back in no time!
This morning I was up at the crack of too damn early, and went running. First morning run in a long time. I met up with someone who is also training for IMTX, we are going to meet Mon and Wed to hold each other accountable for getting there and getting our runs in. She's much faster and more along in her running (as she's a runner!) so hopefully she doesn't get to sick of me tagging a long as much as I can. But because she was there, I got up and ran. And it wasn't a horrible run. She did push me, and we did the proper 3 mile loop, starting at mile zero and ran around to the mile 3 marker which is past the zero mile marker, since the loops isn't quite 3 miles. My GPS tracked us at 3.11 miles though so not sure who to believe here. But either way, did it in under 28 minutes and it was longer than my previous runs so it was all good. It was good to be running in the morning again. Hopefully I can continue this and be able to get my morning runs in again!
Next run planned is tomorrow after work. So, no chance in missing out that one! Unless I over sleep at work and miss going home!
Update: (9:50pm 1/10/2011)
Just uploaded the stats from my watch and realized the first two miles were done at a pace of 8:34 and 8:22, no wonder I was hurting! The last mile was 10:22 because of that short walking break. So yeah, if I can keep that up, I will be back in no time!
Friday, January 7, 2011
Running Pains, Asthma and Pacing Issues
I woke up Wednesday and my legs were really feeling the running from Monday and Tuesday, so I decided to call it a rest day. My calves, shins and quads were all super tight, and quads were a bit sore. Since the major goal of 2011 is no injuries I won't go for a run if my legs are already hurting or are super stiff, as I'm kind of prone to running injuries. Better to take a rest day and be able to run tomorrow than to run today and not be able to run for a week or two.
I then made the plan to wake up Thursday and go for a run in the morning. I use to be a super early morning person, but not sure what happened as I really have been struggling the last year to wake up at all in the mornings. Is it age? Change in diet? Change of stress levels? I don't know, but I'm going to get my morning workouts back! And yes. I woke up Thursday morning at 4:45am, ready to go, the alarm went off and I was ready. But again, my legs weren't so happy with that idea. So I decided I would run after work instead. But I didn't go back to sleep. I need to get use to this waking up early thing, so I stayed awake and puttered around the house to keep myself awake and get ready for the day.
After work I did run. My legs were feeling a bit better, just a bit heavy at this point, but better. I headed out to Memorial Park and headed out for the run. I did the three miles in just over 27 minutes. Still really slow for me. But there was lots of walking involved, which means I was probably starting off way too fast, since it's just over 9 minute miles with long walking periods mixed in. I need to get better at pacing myself, more on this in a bit. I also started to have some breathing issues. It was hard to breath out there for some reason, and it's been a long time since I've had asthma issues while running.
I've had asthma since I was two. Before it was cool to have it, I'm a trend setter like that you know? And I never had a daily medicine, just emergency inhalers growing up. Several years ago, I got put on some daily meds and it helped quite a bit, but I stopped with it last year due to needing new prescriptions and needing to find a new doctor. Unfortunately, my current medical insurance really sucks and so it's expensive to go to doctors and such. But I know if I want to make the most of this athletic stuff, I really need to get my lungs under control. So, I will be looking for a good doctor for that, and see what I can do to get all that dealt with.
After the run, I was still having some breathing issues and coughing a bit. Today, I wake up in a similar state, and I'm now worried I'm getting sick. Hopefully I can fend this off quickly and keep moving forward.
Back to the pacing issues. From the people that I know, it seems like when they are running, they find a groove and just start running with it, and know what their pace is. Everyone has a built in metronome I believe. This allows them to keep beat with songs, create new beats, etc. I have a broken one. I struggle to keep beat in songs, which made it very hard for me to dance, but also makes it hard for me to keep a steady cadence when running and biking. Because of this, I wear myself out faster than I should. I start off too fast, too slow, change pace, speed up, slow down, all the while trying to find that sweet spot where I can just go forever.
When I was really consistently training I was closer to having it figured out, but after a couple of years of no consistent training, I've totally lost my cadence keeper. Now I am struggling to refind it, which is why I think I also don't like running. It just wears me out too fast. I think if I can find my pace, I can then not worry about what's going on and just get into a zone and go. Yes. I think this is why I don't like running.
But enough of that, and this morning I woke up feeling not too bad. I probably could have gone for a run but had to get to work early since I'm leaving work early to go camping this weekend. So, I don't see myself hitting my 5 runs this week, but I'm OK with that. It's an over all goal of 2011, not a goal of the first week of the new year! As long as I can mange to hit that goal for the majority of the year, it will be a successful year for this goal.
I then made the plan to wake up Thursday and go for a run in the morning. I use to be a super early morning person, but not sure what happened as I really have been struggling the last year to wake up at all in the mornings. Is it age? Change in diet? Change of stress levels? I don't know, but I'm going to get my morning workouts back! And yes. I woke up Thursday morning at 4:45am, ready to go, the alarm went off and I was ready. But again, my legs weren't so happy with that idea. So I decided I would run after work instead. But I didn't go back to sleep. I need to get use to this waking up early thing, so I stayed awake and puttered around the house to keep myself awake and get ready for the day.
After work I did run. My legs were feeling a bit better, just a bit heavy at this point, but better. I headed out to Memorial Park and headed out for the run. I did the three miles in just over 27 minutes. Still really slow for me. But there was lots of walking involved, which means I was probably starting off way too fast, since it's just over 9 minute miles with long walking periods mixed in. I need to get better at pacing myself, more on this in a bit. I also started to have some breathing issues. It was hard to breath out there for some reason, and it's been a long time since I've had asthma issues while running.
I've had asthma since I was two. Before it was cool to have it, I'm a trend setter like that you know? And I never had a daily medicine, just emergency inhalers growing up. Several years ago, I got put on some daily meds and it helped quite a bit, but I stopped with it last year due to needing new prescriptions and needing to find a new doctor. Unfortunately, my current medical insurance really sucks and so it's expensive to go to doctors and such. But I know if I want to make the most of this athletic stuff, I really need to get my lungs under control. So, I will be looking for a good doctor for that, and see what I can do to get all that dealt with.
After the run, I was still having some breathing issues and coughing a bit. Today, I wake up in a similar state, and I'm now worried I'm getting sick. Hopefully I can fend this off quickly and keep moving forward.
Back to the pacing issues. From the people that I know, it seems like when they are running, they find a groove and just start running with it, and know what their pace is. Everyone has a built in metronome I believe. This allows them to keep beat with songs, create new beats, etc. I have a broken one. I struggle to keep beat in songs, which made it very hard for me to dance, but also makes it hard for me to keep a steady cadence when running and biking. Because of this, I wear myself out faster than I should. I start off too fast, too slow, change pace, speed up, slow down, all the while trying to find that sweet spot where I can just go forever.
When I was really consistently training I was closer to having it figured out, but after a couple of years of no consistent training, I've totally lost my cadence keeper. Now I am struggling to refind it, which is why I think I also don't like running. It just wears me out too fast. I think if I can find my pace, I can then not worry about what's going on and just get into a zone and go. Yes. I think this is why I don't like running.
But enough of that, and this morning I woke up feeling not too bad. I probably could have gone for a run but had to get to work early since I'm leaving work early to go camping this weekend. So, I don't see myself hitting my 5 runs this week, but I'm OK with that. It's an over all goal of 2011, not a goal of the first week of the new year! As long as I can mange to hit that goal for the majority of the year, it will be a successful year for this goal.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Running and the Rain
Today's run was not too bad for a run. Well, yes and no. The running part of it was not great. But it was fun in the rain. It wasn't raining too hard, just kind of misting which was kind of nice.
So, I did the 3ish miles in about 31minutes, which was slow and painful. I had to walk a bit because of side stitches and my left leg started to feel like it was going numb towards last third of the run. So slowed down and walked quite a bit.
But, really didn't mind too much because walking/running in the rain is enjoyable. No puddles to splash the cars with though, maybe tomorrow!
I have decided that my brain likes to walk around a bit too while I'm out there. Just start thinking random thoughts, some good, some bad, but does indeed help to decompress from the day especially after a long day.
But day two is done and I'm good to go for number three!
So, I did the 3ish miles in about 31minutes, which was slow and painful. I had to walk a bit because of side stitches and my left leg started to feel like it was going numb towards last third of the run. So slowed down and walked quite a bit.
But, really didn't mind too much because walking/running in the rain is enjoyable. No puddles to splash the cars with though, maybe tomorrow!
I have decided that my brain likes to walk around a bit too while I'm out there. Just start thinking random thoughts, some good, some bad, but does indeed help to decompress from the day especially after a long day.
But day two is done and I'm good to go for number three!
Monday, January 3, 2011
First Run of 2011!
Well the first run of 2011 is now done! And I'm glad since it was not fun at all! But I met the first goal of 3 miles (3.04 to be approximately exactish.)
I've not run since the beginning of December, and it showed. I sat around gained weight, lost fitness and it showed. Bad. I couldn't complete the full 3 mile loop at Memorial Park running. I had to walk a little bit which I didn't like at all. But oh well, I'm back at it and getting into the swing of things once again. I'm sure that as I do more and try to keep the goal of 3 miles (at least) five times a week (at least) I will be back to where I was in no time.
So today I didn't have auto lap on so don't know my mile splits, but it was the 3.04 miles in 28:59. I guess it's not too horrible considering I had to walk several times.
Anyways, that's it for today, check back tomorrow to see if I'm still alive!
I've not run since the beginning of December, and it showed. I sat around gained weight, lost fitness and it showed. Bad. I couldn't complete the full 3 mile loop at Memorial Park running. I had to walk a little bit which I didn't like at all. But oh well, I'm back at it and getting into the swing of things once again. I'm sure that as I do more and try to keep the goal of 3 miles (at least) five times a week (at least) I will be back to where I was in no time.
So today I didn't have auto lap on so don't know my mile splits, but it was the 3.04 miles in 28:59. I guess it's not too horrible considering I had to walk several times.
Anyways, that's it for today, check back tomorrow to see if I'm still alive!
Goals for 2011
So 2011 has started. And I needed some goals to kick my rear in gear.
Sure I have another silly little race planned (Ironman Texas) but that won't really do it for me as we can see from my last little attempt at a silly little race. So, I decided that 2011 will be the year I run. My goal is to run three miles, five times a week at least. This will hopefully help my running a lot and get me where I really want to be with it. Which is the ability to just go out and go for a 15 mile run without thinking about it.
So, the first run will be today after work. My first run in about a month as well since my knee started bothering me, so will have to be careful that it is back to being healthy as the other goal, which is the same as my 2010 one (which I made!) is no serious injuries. A serious injury will be defined as keeping me from being able to do anything for more than 1-2 weeks.
I think I need another race goal for towards the end of the year, since I have Ironman Texas in the first half, I need to find something for the second half. If anyone is out there, any suggestions?
Sure I have another silly little race planned (Ironman Texas) but that won't really do it for me as we can see from my last little attempt at a silly little race. So, I decided that 2011 will be the year I run. My goal is to run three miles, five times a week at least. This will hopefully help my running a lot and get me where I really want to be with it. Which is the ability to just go out and go for a 15 mile run without thinking about it.
So, the first run will be today after work. My first run in about a month as well since my knee started bothering me, so will have to be careful that it is back to being healthy as the other goal, which is the same as my 2010 one (which I made!) is no serious injuries. A serious injury will be defined as keeping me from being able to do anything for more than 1-2 weeks.
I think I need another race goal for towards the end of the year, since I have Ironman Texas in the first half, I need to find something for the second half. If anyone is out there, any suggestions?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
