If I achieve no other goals through the thinking about, training for, and completing a triathlon, it will have already been a success. I have found myself mourning losing my time running lately, but if I look at it another way, then I gain that I have already pushed myself way outside my comfort zone. What I mean is, I have logged a lot of time in the pool, something I never would have done otherwise. I am by no means comfortable in the water. Which is to say, I am confident in my ability to swim, but not confident that I am doing it "right" or that I will be setting any records doing it.
The onset of cold weather forced me off my bike....and into spin class! I was NERVOUS that first day walking in. My perception of people that take spin is that they are hard core crazy people. That isn't that far off. My class seems to have a good mix of experienced Ironman Triathletes and moms just trying to stay in shape. And the instructor is very nice and not in the least intimidating. Still, I didn't even know how to adjust my bike the first class, and thought I was going to die 12 minutes into a 60 minute class.
And lastly, I have started taking a strength-training class: TRX. Good lord. I always thought of myself as someone who is stronger than they look. I am not Hercules, but I can tote around 50 pounds worth of babies, a diaper bag, a toy, and snacks with no problem. And, for crying out loud, I gave birth to two kids...with no drugs. I'm tough! Anyway, this class made me feel like a baby deer. I can manage the leg exercises pretty well, and about half the ab stuff I feel good about, but the arms. Wow. I cannot do a single regular push up on the ground--I always do the girl kind from my knees. And in the class the exercise is a push up with your feet 18 inches off the ground in two straps. Some people don't attempt. I give it a try, at least. I have been incredibly sore after the class the past two weeks. The sorest I have ever been after anything, in fact. But the focus on strengthening my core and upper body, especially, I know will benefit me overall, in running, and especially in finishing a half iron distance triathlon strongly.
This all makes me excited to keep pushing the bounds of what is comfortable for me, and what I feel like is the edge of what I can do physically.
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
Monday, November 25, 2013
You know you're a runner if...
Yesterday I felt like one of those bumper stickers. It was 17 degrees when I left the house for a run. I could not wait to get out there. I love running in cold weather. But being the first real cold run of the year, it was a little shocking. Overall it went great! I wanted to run 10 miles, but the weather (and lack of sunlight) has forced me to the treadmill for several days in a row, so just getting outside was a success. I made 8.25 miles before deciding to call it a day.
I couldn't find my running gloves, so I ended up wearing just regular winter gloves. My hands were on fire! I kept switching between putting them on and taking them off (when I wasn't running into the wind). Near the end of my run, I tried to pull one off and my other hand slipped and I punched myself right in the gut. Nearly knocked the wind out of me.
I'm still struggling with a comfortable fit of my shoes. The next size up feels too big, but with my socks the size I have feels a little too small after a lot of miles. So lately, I've been wearing them without socks. I actually like it. The fit finally feels right (but I still hate the laces). But in 17 degrees, I wasn't about to go sockless. I wore a pair of socks I bought for my bike shoes, and everything was fine.
I ended up registering for one more race this year....a 5K at the Y on Thanksgiving. Actually the whole family is registered, so that is a first and should be fun. We'll see how little legs do for 3 miles.
I couldn't find my running gloves, so I ended up wearing just regular winter gloves. My hands were on fire! I kept switching between putting them on and taking them off (when I wasn't running into the wind). Near the end of my run, I tried to pull one off and my other hand slipped and I punched myself right in the gut. Nearly knocked the wind out of me.
I'm still struggling with a comfortable fit of my shoes. The next size up feels too big, but with my socks the size I have feels a little too small after a lot of miles. So lately, I've been wearing them without socks. I actually like it. The fit finally feels right (but I still hate the laces). But in 17 degrees, I wasn't about to go sockless. I wore a pair of socks I bought for my bike shoes, and everything was fine.
I ended up registering for one more race this year....a 5K at the Y on Thanksgiving. Actually the whole family is registered, so that is a first and should be fun. We'll see how little legs do for 3 miles.
Friday, November 15, 2013
Racking My Bike
It's been awhile, two weeks at least, since I've been on my bike. All week I had been planning on trying to get in a 20 mile ride, which would be my longest ride to date. Yesterday I had a chance to get out. It was windy, and about 45 degrees. That ride taught me a lot about riding a bike...
1. 45 degrees is cold on a bike. I would probably still wear shorts to run in 45 degree weather, but I was underdressed for a bike ride (in shorts and compression socks, gloves, and a jacket). My hands, face, top of my legs, and feet were freezing.
2. I almost scrapped the ride altogether because it was so windy. But then decided to go for it because it could be windy on race day (that's what I always say about X element: It could be hot on race day, raining on race day, etc), so if you don't practice in it, you won't really be ready. Wind on my bike makes me a little nervous for a couple of reasons. First, because I ride on the road, and wind blows me all over the place. Second, wind gusts make me feel unsteady, and unsteady with my feet clipped to the pedals makes me feel like I could go down.
3. A headwind is basically like riding up the longest hill you can imagine. I had to ride 3 gears higher on the way back because the wind was so strong.
Basically, I have no idea how to dress for riding in the elements. I don't know what is proper for cycling. Running outside is acceptable year round, but I certainly wouldn't dream of taking my bike out if it was snowing, and the cold of yesterday sealed the deal for me. No need to punish myself by riding outside in freezing cold winter. I hope to acquire a bike trainer for this winter, and (if the Y would offer a spin class at a normal time) take a spin class or two. While my bike is up for the winter, I definitely need to take it in for a tune up. It's always had a rattle in about 3rd gear and it's getting worse, and sometimes feels like it shifts more than one gear going up. I don't know enough to know if it's a bad part or if I'm doing something wrong.
Tomorrow is race day again...Girls on the Run 5k!
1. 45 degrees is cold on a bike. I would probably still wear shorts to run in 45 degree weather, but I was underdressed for a bike ride (in shorts and compression socks, gloves, and a jacket). My hands, face, top of my legs, and feet were freezing.
2. I almost scrapped the ride altogether because it was so windy. But then decided to go for it because it could be windy on race day (that's what I always say about X element: It could be hot on race day, raining on race day, etc), so if you don't practice in it, you won't really be ready. Wind on my bike makes me a little nervous for a couple of reasons. First, because I ride on the road, and wind blows me all over the place. Second, wind gusts make me feel unsteady, and unsteady with my feet clipped to the pedals makes me feel like I could go down.
3. A headwind is basically like riding up the longest hill you can imagine. I had to ride 3 gears higher on the way back because the wind was so strong.
Basically, I have no idea how to dress for riding in the elements. I don't know what is proper for cycling. Running outside is acceptable year round, but I certainly wouldn't dream of taking my bike out if it was snowing, and the cold of yesterday sealed the deal for me. No need to punish myself by riding outside in freezing cold winter. I hope to acquire a bike trainer for this winter, and (if the Y would offer a spin class at a normal time) take a spin class or two. While my bike is up for the winter, I definitely need to take it in for a tune up. It's always had a rattle in about 3rd gear and it's getting worse, and sometimes feels like it shifts more than one gear going up. I don't know enough to know if it's a bad part or if I'm doing something wrong.
Tomorrow is race day again...Girls on the Run 5k!
Friday, November 8, 2013
What's the deal with swim caps?
Another day, another great workout!
In order to catapult my triathlon training, we got a family pass to the YMCA. At first this seemed brilliant. They offer childcare during the day, so I could work out, the kids could play. But, one small hangup, one of the kids refuses to stop screaming at the top of his lungs in the toy room, and so it hasn't worked out exactly as planned...yet.
The point is, I've been fitting in trips at other odd times. Bright and early this morning I went up for a 800m swim and 5 mile run. The swim was ok. My arms felt tired, and when that happens I can tell that I really overcompensate with my legs. Knowing basically nothing about swimming, I am not sure if that's what I'm supposed to do or not, but I feel that trying to save my legs for pedaling a bike and then running would be optimal. And, despite overall great conditioning, I get so easily winded in the pool. I think it has to do mostly with the odd breathing pattern.
Speaking of that, I am feeling more comfortable all the time swimming with my face down, and have been practicing taking breaths on both the left and right (I read this is helpful to be good at in a group swim in case there is a body where you want to breath, or a flailing arm or leg).
What I really don't get about swimming is the point of a swim cap. I have been wearing one because I believe you have to wear them during Ironman events, and well, because I'm trying to preserve my hair color (hey, don't judge!). But it looks so weird, it doesn't keep my hair totally dry, it doesn't keep water out of my ears, and it really pulls my hair going on and off. So, someone please tell me what gives!
By the way, it took me just about 20 minutes to swim 800m. I took a few breaks at the end of every 200m set, so all total about 23 minutes. I have no idea if that's good, bad, or average. It does feel a little easier to swim that distance than it did 10 days ago, so that's a great sign! And my run, 5 miles in 39:44 (7:58/mi) immediately after the swim. I feel really good about that time.
Looking forward to getting a bike ride in this weekend! Anybody out there racing this weekend?
In order to catapult my triathlon training, we got a family pass to the YMCA. At first this seemed brilliant. They offer childcare during the day, so I could work out, the kids could play. But, one small hangup, one of the kids refuses to stop screaming at the top of his lungs in the toy room, and so it hasn't worked out exactly as planned...yet.
The point is, I've been fitting in trips at other odd times. Bright and early this morning I went up for a 800m swim and 5 mile run. The swim was ok. My arms felt tired, and when that happens I can tell that I really overcompensate with my legs. Knowing basically nothing about swimming, I am not sure if that's what I'm supposed to do or not, but I feel that trying to save my legs for pedaling a bike and then running would be optimal. And, despite overall great conditioning, I get so easily winded in the pool. I think it has to do mostly with the odd breathing pattern.
Speaking of that, I am feeling more comfortable all the time swimming with my face down, and have been practicing taking breaths on both the left and right (I read this is helpful to be good at in a group swim in case there is a body where you want to breath, or a flailing arm or leg).
What I really don't get about swimming is the point of a swim cap. I have been wearing one because I believe you have to wear them during Ironman events, and well, because I'm trying to preserve my hair color (hey, don't judge!). But it looks so weird, it doesn't keep my hair totally dry, it doesn't keep water out of my ears, and it really pulls my hair going on and off. So, someone please tell me what gives!
By the way, it took me just about 20 minutes to swim 800m. I took a few breaks at the end of every 200m set, so all total about 23 minutes. I have no idea if that's good, bad, or average. It does feel a little easier to swim that distance than it did 10 days ago, so that's a great sign! And my run, 5 miles in 39:44 (7:58/mi) immediately after the swim. I feel really good about that time.
Looking forward to getting a bike ride in this weekend! Anybody out there racing this weekend?
Sunday, November 3, 2013
2013 Race Recap
2013 has been a great year all around. It has been a long haul in terms of returning from a fitness level of basically zero after having a baby last October, so logging several personal bests. After having my last race of year two weeks ago, I am happy to have a bit of a break, but also full of excitement and anticipation for next season. I have some really big goals and exciting ideas for 2014. But before all that, here's a recap of my 2013 racing season:
Mercy Health 15k: This was my first official race back. It was freezing cold and snowing at the start. It is one of my all-time favorite races because I ran with my sister, side by side the entire race. It was the longest she has ever run and it was so amazing to finish it with her!
Smokey Mountain Relay: 212 miles through the Smokey Mountains in North Carolina. This was a tough, but fun relay. We finished in a solid time, and the hills kicked my butt. And I got a $260 speeding ticket.
Girls on the Run 5k: I was a running buddy for a 4th grader. She finished in 32 minutes and some change. I was so inspired by her!
Flying Pig Half Marathon: I love the Flying Pig, kind of like my "home turf." It's the third year out of four that I've done an event there (full marathon in 2010, half marathon in 2012). I walked away from this one with a brand new PR of 1:50:18!
Summerfest Rock n Sole Half Marathon: A last minute entry, but well worth it. Decided on this one because it was part of the M2 challenge with the Madison Mini later in the summer. The start of a fun summer of racing in Wisconsin...got another half marathon PR of 1:49:45!
Canoefest Biathlon: First time entry in this race that included a 9 mile canoe and a 6.7 mile run with a partner. By the way, we won the all female division! (And flipped our canoe into ice cold water, got a lovely bruise that lasted about a month that took up my entire shin!)
Madison Mini Marathon: I deferred my entry into this race from last August...this is a family affair! I did not feel well before and during the race, did not make it into my start corral before the race, stopped to help a struggling runner on the course, and (best of all) got to finish holding hands with my 2 year old daughter....oh, and scored another PR: 1:49:42!
Brewers Mini Marathon: I set a goal for this race...finish under 1:48. I started out a little too fast on a course that was harder than I thought it was going to be. I did not make my goal, and I paid for my fast start at the end, but still had fun. Finished in 1:49:51.
Bourbon Chase: 200 mile relay with a great group of people...another solid team performance, and a great personal performance. And another race with my husband (who vowed that he did not want to become a runner--he ran the Smokey Mountain relay and the Brewers Mini, as well). I ran 19.4 miles in all, and averaged 7:43/mile over that distance! This was a great way to end 2013.
So, what's in store for next year? Fewer races, bigger challenges. Why am I already thinking about next race season?
1. I need a goal.
2. It's exciting!
3. I am a cheapskate and I like early-bird prices.
4. I work a lot of weekends, and I have little kids, so racing takes planning.
I am already registered for two races: Run the Bluegrass Half Marathon (I hear just wonderful things about this race, and I love the scenery of the Bourbon Chase, so this was a no-brainer), and the Flying Pig Marathon Relay with a group of girls that absolutely rock. I decided not to run the half or full at the Pig because...I am aiming to make the jump to triathlon for next season!
I am really, really excited about this. I'll always be a runner first. I love cross-training on my bike. And I think I'll barely survive the swim. This idea was born out of an impromptu race in the lake this summer. Could I complete a triathlon? Swim, bike, AND run?
My goal (having never done any distance of triathlon before, this seems a little nuts) is to complete a half ironman (70.3 miles) in July 2014. I have not registered yet; I have time before the price increase. I know I can finish, I think I can post a reasonable time, but I'm a little worried about finding the time to train with two small children. So, registration is going to wait, just a bit, while I change up my training now to fit in "multisport" workouts (this week I've done a bike/run, swim/run, swim/run, and long run....and, I'm sore!)
Second, I want to tackle a full marathon, my third. I have my eye on Twin Cities next October. I want a new race, and there is a high percentage of Boston Marathon qualifying times that come from Twin Cities (as IF that is possible--but, hey a girl can dream, and I might as well set myself up for success if I am going to put in the time to train).
I want to try to add in a sprint triathlon or two, and a relay or two, but those are not yet set. I can't wait!
And, I hope to use the blog to document my training more. If I'm going to be spending even more time training, I will have lots of time to think about aspects of training, and this will be a nice avenue to share it.
Do you have any goals for 2014? Triumphs from this year to share?
Mercy Health 15k: This was my first official race back. It was freezing cold and snowing at the start. It is one of my all-time favorite races because I ran with my sister, side by side the entire race. It was the longest she has ever run and it was so amazing to finish it with her!
Smokey Mountain Relay: 212 miles through the Smokey Mountains in North Carolina. This was a tough, but fun relay. We finished in a solid time, and the hills kicked my butt. And I got a $260 speeding ticket.
Girls on the Run 5k: I was a running buddy for a 4th grader. She finished in 32 minutes and some change. I was so inspired by her!
Flying Pig Half Marathon: I love the Flying Pig, kind of like my "home turf." It's the third year out of four that I've done an event there (full marathon in 2010, half marathon in 2012). I walked away from this one with a brand new PR of 1:50:18!
Summerfest Rock n Sole Half Marathon: A last minute entry, but well worth it. Decided on this one because it was part of the M2 challenge with the Madison Mini later in the summer. The start of a fun summer of racing in Wisconsin...got another half marathon PR of 1:49:45!
Canoefest Biathlon: First time entry in this race that included a 9 mile canoe and a 6.7 mile run with a partner. By the way, we won the all female division! (And flipped our canoe into ice cold water, got a lovely bruise that lasted about a month that took up my entire shin!)
Madison Mini Marathon: I deferred my entry into this race from last August...this is a family affair! I did not feel well before and during the race, did not make it into my start corral before the race, stopped to help a struggling runner on the course, and (best of all) got to finish holding hands with my 2 year old daughter....oh, and scored another PR: 1:49:42!
Brewers Mini Marathon: I set a goal for this race...finish under 1:48. I started out a little too fast on a course that was harder than I thought it was going to be. I did not make my goal, and I paid for my fast start at the end, but still had fun. Finished in 1:49:51.
Bourbon Chase: 200 mile relay with a great group of people...another solid team performance, and a great personal performance. And another race with my husband (who vowed that he did not want to become a runner--he ran the Smokey Mountain relay and the Brewers Mini, as well). I ran 19.4 miles in all, and averaged 7:43/mile over that distance! This was a great way to end 2013.
So, what's in store for next year? Fewer races, bigger challenges. Why am I already thinking about next race season?
1. I need a goal.
2. It's exciting!
3. I am a cheapskate and I like early-bird prices.
4. I work a lot of weekends, and I have little kids, so racing takes planning.
I am already registered for two races: Run the Bluegrass Half Marathon (I hear just wonderful things about this race, and I love the scenery of the Bourbon Chase, so this was a no-brainer), and the Flying Pig Marathon Relay with a group of girls that absolutely rock. I decided not to run the half or full at the Pig because...I am aiming to make the jump to triathlon for next season!
I am really, really excited about this. I'll always be a runner first. I love cross-training on my bike. And I think I'll barely survive the swim. This idea was born out of an impromptu race in the lake this summer. Could I complete a triathlon? Swim, bike, AND run?
My goal (having never done any distance of triathlon before, this seems a little nuts) is to complete a half ironman (70.3 miles) in July 2014. I have not registered yet; I have time before the price increase. I know I can finish, I think I can post a reasonable time, but I'm a little worried about finding the time to train with two small children. So, registration is going to wait, just a bit, while I change up my training now to fit in "multisport" workouts (this week I've done a bike/run, swim/run, swim/run, and long run....and, I'm sore!)
Second, I want to tackle a full marathon, my third. I have my eye on Twin Cities next October. I want a new race, and there is a high percentage of Boston Marathon qualifying times that come from Twin Cities (as IF that is possible--but, hey a girl can dream, and I might as well set myself up for success if I am going to put in the time to train).
I want to try to add in a sprint triathlon or two, and a relay or two, but those are not yet set. I can't wait!
And, I hope to use the blog to document my training more. If I'm going to be spending even more time training, I will have lots of time to think about aspects of training, and this will be a nice avenue to share it.
Do you have any goals for 2014? Triumphs from this year to share?
Sunday, October 6, 2013
Bottom Line
Here it is: I stink at keeping a second blog. But, I've been giving it a lot of thought, and I'm ready to recommit to posting here. My original thought was to share more of my "advice" about running. But, what do I really know? So, while I'll still continue to share things that I find work or don't, my main focus will be to keep this as more of a journal of my quest to complete some pretty big goals I have in the works for 2014. Oh, don't worry, I'll be sure to expand more on those later.
With one more race (well, technically two if you count the Girls on the Run 5K) left this year, I have had a great season of running and racing. I've run 4 half marathons this year, and set a PR 3 times. I wanted to make a perfect four for four, but it didn't happen at my last race. C'est la vie. I was bummed, but I think that's the nature of runners. Or is it just me? Not meeting a goal isn't really a failure. I still turned out a sub 1:50 time. I ran a great first 10 miles, but fell off the pace because I went out very hard trying to PR by almost a minute. It's all good. It gives me a great place to pick up next season (did I mention yet that I already registered for a 2014 race?).
I'm very excited to be ending the season at an overnight relay (my second of the year). It's a great race that I, unfortunately, had to miss out on last year, and I'm really looking forward to running again.
After that, I'm looking forward to sharing my plans for 2014! Until then...keep plugging along, one foot in front of the other.
With one more race (well, technically two if you count the Girls on the Run 5K) left this year, I have had a great season of running and racing. I've run 4 half marathons this year, and set a PR 3 times. I wanted to make a perfect four for four, but it didn't happen at my last race. C'est la vie. I was bummed, but I think that's the nature of runners. Or is it just me? Not meeting a goal isn't really a failure. I still turned out a sub 1:50 time. I ran a great first 10 miles, but fell off the pace because I went out very hard trying to PR by almost a minute. It's all good. It gives me a great place to pick up next season (did I mention yet that I already registered for a 2014 race?).
I'm very excited to be ending the season at an overnight relay (my second of the year). It's a great race that I, unfortunately, had to miss out on last year, and I'm really looking forward to running again.
After that, I'm looking forward to sharing my plans for 2014! Until then...keep plugging along, one foot in front of the other.
Saturday, March 9, 2013
New Shoes. "Pure" Love.
Bringing home new running shoes is one of my most favorite times of the year. I absolutely LOVE the pair I am currently running in, and so was a bit disappointed that I waited just a shade too long to update and the model is no longer available (oh, I probably could have found them online somewhere, but I went to the specialty store I always go to and they weren't carrying the older model anymore).
I've been running in Brooks PureCadence, which you can check out on Amazon. I thought I could stretch them a bit since I didn't do any real racing last year, and my weekly mileage was significantly lower than it normally would be. On my long run last week I got a blister. Gasp! Not a bad one, but a rubbing nonetheless, and I decided it was time to cash in the gift cards I've been squirreling away. Besides, it's almost race season again and high time to break in new shoes.
I didn't even bother trying on a second pair. My love for the PureCadence is so immense that only tried on the new model, aptly named PureCadence 2. I asked the (very knowledgable) sales associate about any changes they'd made to the shoe. He assured me that the changes were minor, and that he runs in Brooks PureFlow and has broken in his PureFlow 2s already. He went on to discuss the upgrades and said, "the changes are minimal. They only changed the upper." Um. That's HALF the shoe.
The fit was great, in fact I didn't really notice a difference in how it felt on my feet in the few minutes I wore them around the store. I did bump up a half size because the hills of my spring races scare my toenails. You can check out the new model here. I fully intend to break the cardinal rule of new shoes and take them out on a long run tomorrow.
I've been running in Brooks PureCadence, which you can check out on Amazon. I thought I could stretch them a bit since I didn't do any real racing last year, and my weekly mileage was significantly lower than it normally would be. On my long run last week I got a blister. Gasp! Not a bad one, but a rubbing nonetheless, and I decided it was time to cash in the gift cards I've been squirreling away. Besides, it's almost race season again and high time to break in new shoes.
I didn't even bother trying on a second pair. My love for the PureCadence is so immense that only tried on the new model, aptly named PureCadence 2. I asked the (very knowledgable) sales associate about any changes they'd made to the shoe. He assured me that the changes were minor, and that he runs in Brooks PureFlow and has broken in his PureFlow 2s already. He went on to discuss the upgrades and said, "the changes are minimal. They only changed the upper." Um. That's HALF the shoe.
The fit was great, in fact I didn't really notice a difference in how it felt on my feet in the few minutes I wore them around the store. I did bump up a half size because the hills of my spring races scare my toenails. You can check out the new model here. I fully intend to break the cardinal rule of new shoes and take them out on a long run tomorrow.
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Doggone it, Ollie
I have a (somewhat) irrational fear of being attacked by some kind of animal while out on a run. I say somewhat because honestly it could really happen, and that's scary! Living where we live, and running at dusk by woods, I feel especially susceptible to a skunk or raccoon encounter, or (I swear I'd die) a coyote. Probably more realistic is that I come across a neighborhood dog. It is because of this that I run a combination of familiar roads in varying patterns to create the desired distance for each run I do. I know the houses, which ones have dogs that are loose, which are tied and which are kept safely within an invisible fence. I also have made it a point to try to learn the names of these dogs over the years.
When I had built up enough stamina to return to some of the further parts of my run post-baby, I was surprised to see an unfamiliar and charging large black lab. In the weeks since, I have discovered that this extraordinarily fast canine is Ollie. Ollie charges at me every time I run by his house. He runs into the road and trots behind me until I safely pass his house without intruding.
I'm not sure where this fear came from. I was bit by a dog as a kid by my great Aunt's cocker spaniel, Jo. But it wasn't a serious bite, and generally I'm not fearful of dogs. Maybe it's the vulnerability? I'm out on my own, alone, in the middle of nowhere with few passing cars? If you run enough I feel certain that you, too, will have a dog encounter. I've been chased before, and snapped at before, and those houses I now try to avoid. I have that luxury.
To ward off wild animals, I like to sing (loudly) as I run by wooded areas. Ridiculous, I know. And I swear that I'll be carrying pepper spray with me for my overnight Smoky Mountain Relay leg.
A few years back I had gone out on a long run early one morning. On my way out I went by two raccoons that had been hit in the road. They were probably 5 yards apart, which I found to be really sad. They were probably family, crossing the road together, and one car took them both out. Bummer. But, I'm a country girl and grew up on a "farm" and generally understand the life and death cycle of animals. So, on I went with my run. 10 miles later, on my way home, I passed the same spot. To my horror, one of the raccoons was actually still alive and was trying to drag itself off the road. It was one of the saddest things I have ever seen, and so I ran as fast as I possibly could the last 1.5 miles home to get my husband to drive out and "take care" of the wounded raccoon. (The funny part of this story is that two people passed us on the road while all this was going on--one walking, and one in a truck--and neither batted at eye at us stopped in the middle of the road with a gun. How many places on earth would that happen?!)
I guess what this all boils down to is personal safety. Know your surroundings. Use caution always, but exercise greater caution when faced with the unknown. Don't get so far out of your head, or into your music, that you stop being aware. Danger lurks in many forms, my friends.
On that same thread, I'm considering ordering an ID bracelet, like this one. About two months ago, I worked in the ED at work and witnessed a 20 year old college kid in full cardiac arrest after a workout. Sadly, he did not survive, and no family could be reached by ER staff before he passed. Not to say that I am specifically worried about that, but you never know, and should anything ever happen to me...well, always be prepared.
Anybody out there have fears? Funny stories? Safety tips?
When I had built up enough stamina to return to some of the further parts of my run post-baby, I was surprised to see an unfamiliar and charging large black lab. In the weeks since, I have discovered that this extraordinarily fast canine is Ollie. Ollie charges at me every time I run by his house. He runs into the road and trots behind me until I safely pass his house without intruding.
I'm not sure where this fear came from. I was bit by a dog as a kid by my great Aunt's cocker spaniel, Jo. But it wasn't a serious bite, and generally I'm not fearful of dogs. Maybe it's the vulnerability? I'm out on my own, alone, in the middle of nowhere with few passing cars? If you run enough I feel certain that you, too, will have a dog encounter. I've been chased before, and snapped at before, and those houses I now try to avoid. I have that luxury.
To ward off wild animals, I like to sing (loudly) as I run by wooded areas. Ridiculous, I know. And I swear that I'll be carrying pepper spray with me for my overnight Smoky Mountain Relay leg.
A few years back I had gone out on a long run early one morning. On my way out I went by two raccoons that had been hit in the road. They were probably 5 yards apart, which I found to be really sad. They were probably family, crossing the road together, and one car took them both out. Bummer. But, I'm a country girl and grew up on a "farm" and generally understand the life and death cycle of animals. So, on I went with my run. 10 miles later, on my way home, I passed the same spot. To my horror, one of the raccoons was actually still alive and was trying to drag itself off the road. It was one of the saddest things I have ever seen, and so I ran as fast as I possibly could the last 1.5 miles home to get my husband to drive out and "take care" of the wounded raccoon. (The funny part of this story is that two people passed us on the road while all this was going on--one walking, and one in a truck--and neither batted at eye at us stopped in the middle of the road with a gun. How many places on earth would that happen?!)
I guess what this all boils down to is personal safety. Know your surroundings. Use caution always, but exercise greater caution when faced with the unknown. Don't get so far out of your head, or into your music, that you stop being aware. Danger lurks in many forms, my friends.
On that same thread, I'm considering ordering an ID bracelet, like this one. About two months ago, I worked in the ED at work and witnessed a 20 year old college kid in full cardiac arrest after a workout. Sadly, he did not survive, and no family could be reached by ER staff before he passed. Not to say that I am specifically worried about that, but you never know, and should anything ever happen to me...well, always be prepared.
Anybody out there have fears? Funny stories? Safety tips?
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Speed Work and a note on personal progress
Or maybe the other way around...
Personal progress first. I am fully in the midst of a training program for a spring race. Instead of a spring marathon (anyone recall when I swore I would never run another marathon? I am strongly considering one for fall...never learn. never ever learn.), I am training for a 5K, 10K and half marathon all within 24 hours. I think it will be a fun and unique challenge. But I am doing a marathon training program to get ready for it.
Finding the time to get good training runs in with two small children is much harder than finding the time with just one. I have found that making dinner in the afternoon and plating it up for reheating at dinner time has made evening runs much easier. Dinner is done and dishes are cleaned up except for our plates, so I don't have that pressure and can run and shower, then pop dinner in the microwave. I'm always looking for time-saving tricks...evenings are hectic enough without the addition of a workout, but I don't want that to be the excuse for not getting out the door.
I am extremely happy to report that while regaining endurance is always a challenge, my per mile pace is right on target and even under where I had hoped to be at this point. Prior to being pregnant I had been working hard to reduce my pace and that came back with little effort. Isn't muscle memory a wonderful thing?
So, how did I go from running about a 9:48/mile pace to 8:20/mile pace? I used the dreaded treadmill. For one run per week I get on and run at my desired pace for .25 mile, then I crank up the pace to where I'd like to be for .25 mile, then repeat for 3-4 miles. The increased pace on the treadmill conditions your legs to turn over at a faster rate. The key is to relax, try to settle in to the faster pace. Once you can do that it will translate to a quicker pace for a longer distance.
The other thing that help quicken your pace is to incorporate Fartlek training. I don't love it simply because I like a more structured workout, but it does help break up some of the monotony of a long run if you are plain bored one day. Here's a good article about the idea of Fartlek.
Personal progress first. I am fully in the midst of a training program for a spring race. Instead of a spring marathon (anyone recall when I swore I would never run another marathon? I am strongly considering one for fall...never learn. never ever learn.), I am training for a 5K, 10K and half marathon all within 24 hours. I think it will be a fun and unique challenge. But I am doing a marathon training program to get ready for it.
Finding the time to get good training runs in with two small children is much harder than finding the time with just one. I have found that making dinner in the afternoon and plating it up for reheating at dinner time has made evening runs much easier. Dinner is done and dishes are cleaned up except for our plates, so I don't have that pressure and can run and shower, then pop dinner in the microwave. I'm always looking for time-saving tricks...evenings are hectic enough without the addition of a workout, but I don't want that to be the excuse for not getting out the door.
I am extremely happy to report that while regaining endurance is always a challenge, my per mile pace is right on target and even under where I had hoped to be at this point. Prior to being pregnant I had been working hard to reduce my pace and that came back with little effort. Isn't muscle memory a wonderful thing?
So, how did I go from running about a 9:48/mile pace to 8:20/mile pace? I used the dreaded treadmill. For one run per week I get on and run at my desired pace for .25 mile, then I crank up the pace to where I'd like to be for .25 mile, then repeat for 3-4 miles. The increased pace on the treadmill conditions your legs to turn over at a faster rate. The key is to relax, try to settle in to the faster pace. Once you can do that it will translate to a quicker pace for a longer distance.
The other thing that help quicken your pace is to incorporate Fartlek training. I don't love it simply because I like a more structured workout, but it does help break up some of the monotony of a long run if you are plain bored one day. Here's a good article about the idea of Fartlek.
Friday, January 25, 2013
Feeling Unmotivated?
If you live anywhere in the world that's been getting cold weather, it's probably been just as hard for you to layer up and get out the door in the cold. And dark. The good news is, the days are getting longer. In the meantime, Runner's World has compiled this great list of 101 things to motivate you:
Runner's World List: 101 Kicks in the Butt
Runner's World List: 101 Kicks in the Butt
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Running Naked
Running naked refers to running without music, not clothes. Although, I guess it could also refer to running without clothes. Who really wants to see that though?
The debate is long-standing. To run with music or not? Many races have restrictions on listening to music during the race. Be sure to check it out before you go, otherwise you could face being disqualified from the race.
Many can't fathom heading out the door without earbuds and a playlist. I used to be that way. Then I tried a new tactic: no music. I feel like it has really helped push my running to the next level. It's really just about training your brain, I think. I run without music on most runs now, and the reasons are pretty simple:
1. I don't like to listen to music on race day. I'd rather hear the crowd to get the full experience.
2. I need to be able to hear cars on the road since where I run is narrow country roads, and often in the dark. If I use music, I only wear one earbud.
3. Listening to music contributes to my boredom.
You might be confused by the last one. Let me explain. The music you listen to is music you love, right? You know the songs, and can sing them without really paying attention. Instead, you focus on how much you hurt, how far you have left to go, the twinge in your foot, etc. If you need to listen to something, I have found that a book on tape is a great solution. It forces your attention. Why listen to a book if you have no idea what's going on? That means it's occupying your brain away from ruminating about physical complaints. The added bonus? You're multi-tasking: "reading" and running!
What are your thoughts about music vs. none? Anybody found something that works for them?
Speaking of running naked, here's a link to a pretty cool race. The Strip N Run 5k is April 13th in Indianapolis. The run benefits the Salvation Army. The race features 4 "strip stations" where you shed the excess clothes you've put on for the race to donate to the Salvation Army. Pretty cool idea, right?
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