It's been awhile, but waking up is starting to be less painful again. Excitement about getting to run is taking over. Although I must say, I feel like a total psychopath waking up before dawn to drive across town and run in place for an hour..
I spent a little time figuring out the monitor on the treadmill this morning. Set the goal for 2 miles, made it so I could watch tv AND the distance goal, turned the fan on, and set off at a super slow pace, which I adjusted periodically...especially when it began to feel like I would never meet my distance goal if I didn't hustle a bit.
But, because of the super slow pace, around the 1.25 mile mark, I was feeling pretty sure of myself and even managed to up my goal to 3 miles.
Before I made it too much further, I reset that to 2 miles.
Regardless, I was happy I made it 2 miles. Even if it did take me 28.5 minutes.
Weather: indoors (still warm...and slightly breezy thanks to the fan.)
Time: 6am; Run 28.5, Walk 1-2 (didn't quite figure out the monitor's cooldown function/didn't have time to worry about it)
Distance: 3.22K/2.0 mi
Elevation: 0
Pace: 14.25
Debating running outside tomorrow. It's gonna be hot...it's currently hotter here than in Death Valley...even though the sun is still up in Death Valley! I think I can make it 3, though, if I run outside. The treadmill just makes me crazy dizzy and crazy bored (although I LOVED getting to watch I Love Lucy this morning)..
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Defeat by Procrastination
I wake up at 5 am on weekdays. Yesterday I slept in all the way to 7. Imagine my annoyance to not wake up until 9 this morning. Actually, it was 20 till 9, then I laid in bed till around 9, then I dawdled around and checked facebook, and debated whether I was going to wear toxic sunscreen since I have no alternatives at the moment, and played with the dog, and fed the cat...all the while knowing that when I checked the hourly forecast last night, I wanted to have my run in by 9. I prefer to run when the "feels like" temperature is under 85. I can do 90, but it blows.
I know part of the issue was that my back has been hurting pretty bad since running on the treadmill. Yesterday I spent the better part of the day catching up on blog posts, and I'm sure sitting at the computer all day did not help my back. I definitely had a strain of fear running through me from the time I woke up about what another run would do to my back.
According to the training plan, today should be a 3 mile day. I could barely knock out one mile on the treadmill 2 days ago. I was optimistic, though...just...well, it took something like 9 runs before I could do 5K when I started back up in May. Not 3.
With annoyance and slowness, I slathered on toxic sunblock, put each and every hair up with 100 pins, threw on my under armour shirt, and headed out. I'm out of contacts, so I couldn't wear sunglasses, which sucked, because it was frakking bright out when I finally left at 9:45.
I ran from the driveway, to the street, around the corner and back up the next street until I was about even with the house (.11K/.07 mi)...and I realized I forgot my knee straps. With a string of curse words (on Sunday morning - I am a bright ray of sunshine in people's lives), I turned around and walked back to the house.
Got the straps, waited until 9:50 to make it an easy to remember time, and set out again.
It was hot. Excruciatingly hot. And although there are a lot of trees on my route, the sun was just at the right angle where there was virtually no shade. I psyched myself out of this run from the get-go.
I made it to the little street past the school in 8 minutes (1.08K/.67 mi -- not including intial out/back, although I do include it in the totals below), but the idea of climbing the next hill made me crazy, so I walked up it over the course of a minute (1.21K/.75 mi). Crossed the busy street, and ran just to around the curve over another minute (1.35K/.84 mi).
This was not going well.
I decided to go ahead and turn away from home to walk my two blocks out/two blocks back, basically affirming that if I had to alternately run/walk every minute for the next 45, I was going to finish the 3 mile goal today. It was 5 minutes of walking before I got back to the intersection (1.7K/1.05 mi).
I ran the two blocks back to the school in the two minutes, then called it (1.95K/1.21 mi). I was still debating finishing the 3 miles, even if I had to walk it all. Part of the reason I wanted to stop is because it's just too hard to remember all these times and points and figure out what I want to count in my numbers for the day. Stupid. Part of the reason was because my flesh was on FIRE. I didn't feel too bad - I wasn't dizzy or sick, but it was horrid to be out in it. Even though it's hotter in the evenings, I think there's something to be said for having more shade and a day's worth of fuel in you. This, today, just wasn't working.
So I headed for home. It took me another 13 minutes to get there (3.05K/1.9 mi).
Not sure where this leaves me on the plan for the half. In theory, I should be running 4 miles next week, something I have only done once. I had already decided I would run 2 miles on each of the run days this week (ala week 3), even though Wednesday of week 2 is supposed to just be a mile. We'll see. One way or another I'm getting up to 13.1, and now that I have gotten my refresher course on procrastination effects on summer runs out of the way, I think it will speed things along.
Weather: 81, sunny, 5 mph (no), 79% humidity, feels like 87
Time: 10am; Run 1, Walk 1, Run 8, Walk 1, Run 1, Walk 5, Run 2, Walk 13 (absurd.)
Distance: 3.27K/2.04 mi
Elevation: +43/-44.2/net -1.3 ft (doesn't include initial out/back)
Just run: 12:00
Distance: 1.58K/.99 mi
5K/10K: 41:39/1:28:02
Pace: 11.94
I know part of the issue was that my back has been hurting pretty bad since running on the treadmill. Yesterday I spent the better part of the day catching up on blog posts, and I'm sure sitting at the computer all day did not help my back. I definitely had a strain of fear running through me from the time I woke up about what another run would do to my back.
According to the training plan, today should be a 3 mile day. I could barely knock out one mile on the treadmill 2 days ago. I was optimistic, though...just...well, it took something like 9 runs before I could do 5K when I started back up in May. Not 3.
With annoyance and slowness, I slathered on toxic sunblock, put each and every hair up with 100 pins, threw on my under armour shirt, and headed out. I'm out of contacts, so I couldn't wear sunglasses, which sucked, because it was frakking bright out when I finally left at 9:45.
I ran from the driveway, to the street, around the corner and back up the next street until I was about even with the house (.11K/.07 mi)...and I realized I forgot my knee straps. With a string of curse words (on Sunday morning - I am a bright ray of sunshine in people's lives), I turned around and walked back to the house.
Got the straps, waited until 9:50 to make it an easy to remember time, and set out again.
It was hot. Excruciatingly hot. And although there are a lot of trees on my route, the sun was just at the right angle where there was virtually no shade. I psyched myself out of this run from the get-go.
I made it to the little street past the school in 8 minutes (1.08K/.67 mi -- not including intial out/back, although I do include it in the totals below), but the idea of climbing the next hill made me crazy, so I walked up it over the course of a minute (1.21K/.75 mi). Crossed the busy street, and ran just to around the curve over another minute (1.35K/.84 mi).
This was not going well.
I decided to go ahead and turn away from home to walk my two blocks out/two blocks back, basically affirming that if I had to alternately run/walk every minute for the next 45, I was going to finish the 3 mile goal today. It was 5 minutes of walking before I got back to the intersection (1.7K/1.05 mi).
I ran the two blocks back to the school in the two minutes, then called it (1.95K/1.21 mi). I was still debating finishing the 3 miles, even if I had to walk it all. Part of the reason I wanted to stop is because it's just too hard to remember all these times and points and figure out what I want to count in my numbers for the day. Stupid. Part of the reason was because my flesh was on FIRE. I didn't feel too bad - I wasn't dizzy or sick, but it was horrid to be out in it. Even though it's hotter in the evenings, I think there's something to be said for having more shade and a day's worth of fuel in you. This, today, just wasn't working.
So I headed for home. It took me another 13 minutes to get there (3.05K/1.9 mi).
Not sure where this leaves me on the plan for the half. In theory, I should be running 4 miles next week, something I have only done once. I had already decided I would run 2 miles on each of the run days this week (ala week 3), even though Wednesday of week 2 is supposed to just be a mile. We'll see. One way or another I'm getting up to 13.1, and now that I have gotten my refresher course on procrastination effects on summer runs out of the way, I think it will speed things along.
Weather: 81, sunny, 5 mph (no), 79% humidity, feels like 87
Time: 10am; Run 1, Walk 1, Run 8, Walk 1, Run 1, Walk 5, Run 2, Walk 13 (absurd.)
Distance: 3.27K/2.04 mi
Elevation: +43/-44.2/net -1.3 ft (doesn't include initial out/back)
Just run: 12:00
Distance: 1.58K/.99 mi
5K/10K: 41:39/1:28:02
Pace: 11.94
Friday, July 29, 2011
So ends my rage against treadmills (partially)
Yesterday I told my coworker that I was going to trail behind her on the Half training plan. I didn't want to steal her thunder, as she likely will be able to complete the plan and intends to run the race. However, she got excited and said I should run the race, too, even though I would have to jump ahead on the schedule. I told her I would see.
But now I am committed to sticking with the schedule.
So it hasn't rained in weeks, but now that I am back on the running horse, rain is forecast for my second running day. My plan calls for two miles, which will take me at least 25 minutes. I want to walk to cool down. Sun comes up at 6, have to be home by 6:30 to have time to get ready for work. Factor in a chance of storms, screw it. I'm getting up early and going to the gym.
What's this gym I speak of? Oh, yes, we're members. Husband goes periodically, but I do not like many aspects (candy and soda machines in the lobby? bugs crawling all over the yoga room? irrational ever-changing schedules? no web presence?), so I have been begging him for well over a year to change the family membership down to a single. He has not, so it's up at 5 to go to the gym.
I've walked on treadmills a lot. They make me dizzy. I think I've only ran on one once, and it seemed way easier than running on pavement. Since that day I have labeled treadmill trainers as taking the easy, er, "road."
Thankfully, the gym is all but empty at 5:30, so I hop on and take off. I didn't stop to calculate the mph I needed to set it to to achieve my 13 minute or so pace that I am used to. I left the terrain 100% flat. After a minute or so the pace scrolls across the screen and I was somewhere in the lower 12s. Uh-oh. I won't be able to maintain this.
The mileage was not moving. I mean, it was barely ticking along. I was bored. There are tvs on the monitor, but then I couldn't watch each 100th of a mile crawl by. I didn't have my mp3 on at first, but I finally got Eminem fired up again. I was so bored. It was like the longest straightaway of all time.
And I was getting quite tired. I was stiff and it was awful. The only things I wanted in order were 1. to stop running, 2. to rest my hands on the sidebars, and 3. water. I slowed the pace down to the 13s.
I barely made it to a mile. But I ran 1.04 yesterday and I refuse to stop short of the previous run, so I went 1.1 mile, then leaped off to the side. I nearly fell, for real. I can't stand treadmills (ok so not all the rage is gone) - they make me so deliriously dizzy! I slowed the pace down to a walk for a tenth of a mile.
I really wanted to go 2 miles, but I didn't have time to walk it, so I took off running again. I made it another .5 mile, then walked the rest of the way to 2. I managed to keep my arms off the bars until that last .3 mile walk. I think I finished the 1.7 miles around 23 minutes. Youch.
So training on the treadmill: Harder than I thought.
Training for a half: Not going so well.
Going to the gym pre-dawn: Good option.
Weather: Indoors, but still quite warm
Time: 5:45am, Approximately: Run 14.4, Walk 2, Run 6.6
Distance: 2.57K/1.6mi (just run)
Elevation: 0
5K/10K: 43:01/1:30:55
Pace: 13.13
Post Run Health Update: My lower back was really sore all day today. Sore, like the way it was after the blood patch. Ugh. Pounding the treadmill was likely not any more gentle than pounding the pavement, especially since it makes me run in such an unnatural way. Slight headache, not as bad as Wednesday. Legs very sore. Knees fine, right knee "bruising" didn't occur today (more time taken to align the strap).
But now I am committed to sticking with the schedule.
So it hasn't rained in weeks, but now that I am back on the running horse, rain is forecast for my second running day. My plan calls for two miles, which will take me at least 25 minutes. I want to walk to cool down. Sun comes up at 6, have to be home by 6:30 to have time to get ready for work. Factor in a chance of storms, screw it. I'm getting up early and going to the gym.
What's this gym I speak of? Oh, yes, we're members. Husband goes periodically, but I do not like many aspects (candy and soda machines in the lobby? bugs crawling all over the yoga room? irrational ever-changing schedules? no web presence?), so I have been begging him for well over a year to change the family membership down to a single. He has not, so it's up at 5 to go to the gym.
I've walked on treadmills a lot. They make me dizzy. I think I've only ran on one once, and it seemed way easier than running on pavement. Since that day I have labeled treadmill trainers as taking the easy, er, "road."
Thankfully, the gym is all but empty at 5:30, so I hop on and take off. I didn't stop to calculate the mph I needed to set it to to achieve my 13 minute or so pace that I am used to. I left the terrain 100% flat. After a minute or so the pace scrolls across the screen and I was somewhere in the lower 12s. Uh-oh. I won't be able to maintain this.
The mileage was not moving. I mean, it was barely ticking along. I was bored. There are tvs on the monitor, but then I couldn't watch each 100th of a mile crawl by. I didn't have my mp3 on at first, but I finally got Eminem fired up again. I was so bored. It was like the longest straightaway of all time.
And I was getting quite tired. I was stiff and it was awful. The only things I wanted in order were 1. to stop running, 2. to rest my hands on the sidebars, and 3. water. I slowed the pace down to the 13s.
I barely made it to a mile. But I ran 1.04 yesterday and I refuse to stop short of the previous run, so I went 1.1 mile, then leaped off to the side. I nearly fell, for real. I can't stand treadmills (ok so not all the rage is gone) - they make me so deliriously dizzy! I slowed the pace down to a walk for a tenth of a mile.
I really wanted to go 2 miles, but I didn't have time to walk it, so I took off running again. I made it another .5 mile, then walked the rest of the way to 2. I managed to keep my arms off the bars until that last .3 mile walk. I think I finished the 1.7 miles around 23 minutes. Youch.
So training on the treadmill: Harder than I thought.
Training for a half: Not going so well.
Going to the gym pre-dawn: Good option.
Weather: Indoors, but still quite warm
Time: 5:45am, Approximately: Run 14.4, Walk 2, Run 6.6
Distance: 2.57K/1.6mi (just run)
Elevation: 0
5K/10K: 43:01/1:30:55
Pace: 13.13
Post Run Health Update: My lower back was really sore all day today. Sore, like the way it was after the blood patch. Ugh. Pounding the treadmill was likely not any more gentle than pounding the pavement, especially since it makes me run in such an unnatural way. Slight headache, not as bad as Wednesday. Legs very sore. Knees fine, right knee "bruising" didn't occur today (more time taken to align the strap).
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Big, Absurd News
Well, my coworker has decided she's going to train for a half. Since she has been pretty regularly running 3 miles, this makes sense. Since I have been flat on my back for a month, I asked to see her training schedule, knowing full well it would be inappropriate to think I would also train for a half. The schedule started a couple weeks ago, but she's going to jump in on today's date. The training starts so easy, I decided to get up and run today and see if I could make it one or two miles, then place myself on the schedule accordingly. Let's face it, it's unlikely I can stay healthy, consistently, long enough to train for a half, so why push it.
Speaking of pushing it, I had to freaking force myself out of bed. I wasn't having it at all. Of course, this caused me to rush through my stretches (first time I haven't fully enjoyed my stretching time - there's a yogini in there dying to get out), and half-arse my knee straps.
But, off I went. I opted for an easier route - if I'm only trying for 1-2 miles, why spend that time in Hill Hell? I took off without a warmup walk (no time), took the regular route, but turned away from the hills, toward the main road, down the long hill, and stopped at 13 minutes, half a block from the big uphill at the end, precisely 1.04 miles from home. I felt better than I expected to, but I reminded myself I was "only" off a month this time - not several months like my last big break.
I had lower back pain for the first 2 blocks or so - it felt like pressure shooting up from my feet pounding the pavement. Eminem came on and I realized I *needed* to keep Recovery on for the whole run - I was definitely running angry. Despite being in the middle of a massive heat wave (aka "summer," at least that's what we used to call it), the heat didn't seem so bad.
I was trying to get home by 6:30 so that I would have adequate time to get ready for work, but I was far enough away from home that it felt like I would never get there walking, so I had a wee block and a half burst near the end and got home at 6:31.
I was a little disappointed that I only ran a mile, but I knew I had only run 13 minutes. I likely could have gone further but I didn't want to face that hill just yet. So, now I am putting myself on the first Wednesday of the training schedule and we'll see if I can manage to catch up. I don't think I want to actually run the race, but I want to run 13.1 miles and I definitely want to Yay! off some of those goals on the side of my blog. Watch them fall.
Weather: 79, dawn, 11mph (nope), 74%, FL 82
Time: 6am, Run 13 minutes
Distance: 1.68K/1.04mi (just run)
5K/10K: 42:14/1:29:16
Elevation: +21.7/-50.2/net -28.5 ft
Pace: 12.50
Post Run Health Update: Back pain didn't return, but I did have a slight headache all day (possibly unrelated). Legs were quite sore, knees felt fine. That right strap didn't get put on right (I knew it!) and rubbed the back of my knee in such a way it felt bruised. Lovely.
Speaking of pushing it, I had to freaking force myself out of bed. I wasn't having it at all. Of course, this caused me to rush through my stretches (first time I haven't fully enjoyed my stretching time - there's a yogini in there dying to get out), and half-arse my knee straps.
But, off I went. I opted for an easier route - if I'm only trying for 1-2 miles, why spend that time in Hill Hell? I took off without a warmup walk (no time), took the regular route, but turned away from the hills, toward the main road, down the long hill, and stopped at 13 minutes, half a block from the big uphill at the end, precisely 1.04 miles from home. I felt better than I expected to, but I reminded myself I was "only" off a month this time - not several months like my last big break.
I had lower back pain for the first 2 blocks or so - it felt like pressure shooting up from my feet pounding the pavement. Eminem came on and I realized I *needed* to keep Recovery on for the whole run - I was definitely running angry. Despite being in the middle of a massive heat wave (aka "summer," at least that's what we used to call it), the heat didn't seem so bad.
I was trying to get home by 6:30 so that I would have adequate time to get ready for work, but I was far enough away from home that it felt like I would never get there walking, so I had a wee block and a half burst near the end and got home at 6:31.
I was a little disappointed that I only ran a mile, but I knew I had only run 13 minutes. I likely could have gone further but I didn't want to face that hill just yet. So, now I am putting myself on the first Wednesday of the training schedule and we'll see if I can manage to catch up. I don't think I want to actually run the race, but I want to run 13.1 miles and I definitely want to Yay! off some of those goals on the side of my blog. Watch them fall.
Weather: 79, dawn, 11mph (nope), 74%, FL 82
Time: 6am, Run 13 minutes
Distance: 1.68K/1.04mi (just run)
5K/10K: 42:14/1:29:16
Elevation: +21.7/-50.2/net -28.5 ft
Pace: 12.50
Post Run Health Update: Back pain didn't return, but I did have a slight headache all day (possibly unrelated). Legs were quite sore, knees felt fine. That right strap didn't get put on right (I knew it!) and rubbed the back of my knee in such a way it felt bruised. Lovely.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
A Month in Review
After my last run, I took a couple days to recover from the cramps from hell that attacked in that last run.
I had a neurology appointment on the 28th that was not anticipated to affect my running, but he ordered a spinal tap for me for the following day. Uh, pardon me? That's right, still trying to rule out stuff in regards to the Brain Cloud. I swear if someone would just buy me a gourmet set of travel trunks and send me to a tropical island where everyone drinks orange soda, I would be just fine.
Anyway, even that wasn't really supposed to affect my running. The neuro actually told me to take it easy - don't go for a run that same day. I considered going for a run the night of the 28th, just in case, but what was there to worry about...paralysis? Oh and...
He did warn me of "spinal migraines" that I would be apt to be suffering from. In case of such event, you go back into the hospital, they draw blood out of your arm and shoot it back into the hole they used for the spinal tap and that makes your headache go away. I literally had to look this up after the appointment because it made me laugh so hard. I would rather jump from a plane than have such a "blood patch" done to me.
So I have the spinal tap. I get the migraine. I can't get off the couch from the 29th until....well, on the 6th I had the blood patch, which put me back on the couch after my limited efforts to start functioning around the 4th.
I was better on the 7th, but had extreme lower back pain. The back pain traveled down to my legs. I couldn't bend over, pick things up, or stand up too long. The very thought of running terrified me, and not just because I had had a bad experience on my last run, before western medicine got it's devil-led talons into my spinal column.
By the 18th, the pain was very rare. Through all of this my sitting and resting postures have been affected - I'm sure that did not help my pains. Any stretching at all still hurt like a mfer. But, still, the pain was practically non-existent by this point. I did not want to push my luck with anything too strenuous, though.
Enter the heat warnings and the temperature not getting below 80 degrees for two weeks, and counting.
Irregardless, I started taking the dog for walks in the evenings a few times, just to try to get going again.
Then one day my coworker went crazy and apparently that is contagious...
I had a neurology appointment on the 28th that was not anticipated to affect my running, but he ordered a spinal tap for me for the following day. Uh, pardon me? That's right, still trying to rule out stuff in regards to the Brain Cloud. I swear if someone would just buy me a gourmet set of travel trunks and send me to a tropical island where everyone drinks orange soda, I would be just fine.
Anyway, even that wasn't really supposed to affect my running. The neuro actually told me to take it easy - don't go for a run that same day. I considered going for a run the night of the 28th, just in case, but what was there to worry about...paralysis? Oh and...
He did warn me of "spinal migraines" that I would be apt to be suffering from. In case of such event, you go back into the hospital, they draw blood out of your arm and shoot it back into the hole they used for the spinal tap and that makes your headache go away. I literally had to look this up after the appointment because it made me laugh so hard. I would rather jump from a plane than have such a "blood patch" done to me.
So I have the spinal tap. I get the migraine. I can't get off the couch from the 29th until....well, on the 6th I had the blood patch, which put me back on the couch after my limited efforts to start functioning around the 4th.
I was better on the 7th, but had extreme lower back pain. The back pain traveled down to my legs. I couldn't bend over, pick things up, or stand up too long. The very thought of running terrified me, and not just because I had had a bad experience on my last run, before western medicine got it's devil-led talons into my spinal column.
By the 18th, the pain was very rare. Through all of this my sitting and resting postures have been affected - I'm sure that did not help my pains. Any stretching at all still hurt like a mfer. But, still, the pain was practically non-existent by this point. I did not want to push my luck with anything too strenuous, though.
Enter the heat warnings and the temperature not getting below 80 degrees for two weeks, and counting.
Irregardless, I started taking the dog for walks in the evenings a few times, just to try to get going again.
Then one day my coworker went crazy and apparently that is contagious...
Thursday, June 23, 2011
I knew this day would come
I had to take a slight break from running due to the incredible amount of pain my knees were in. We went to a play on my birthday and I could barely climb the steps to the seats. It is excruciating. Sparked by my inability to walk, I looked into those straps I saw another girl running with a few days back. Turns out, these are pretty common and you can get them anywhere. Of course, I did an obscene amount of research. Some people swear by them, some people swear at you for using them. I even dragged Husband into a local running store (very exciting) to see what brands of straps they carried. After talking to the guy there about the type and location of pain I was having, he assured me that I would need straps that sit below my knee cap. I decided (FINALLY) to just buy a cheap set at Wal-Mart. If they didn't work, why spend a ton of coin on them. I still couldn't fathom how they would even stay on, nevermind work. Although, the guy at the running store did try one on me and it SEEMED like it would stay on.
I've also been toying with the idea of getting some new shoes. My first pair were quite inexpensive and I have worn the tread completely off of them in places. I have some birthday cash that would get me a decent pair of shoes, and now that I know I want to stick with running, I see no reason why I shouldn't invest in the proper equipment.
I talked to my boss about it and she said different shoes probably wouldn't really help my knees. We figure I probably just tried to do too much too fast and didn't build my muscles up enough to support my knees when I came back. She also talked about how fast she wore her shoes out (she runs halfs). I kind of decided to just stick with more inexpensive shoes - they'll get worn out just as fast. I actually did some research on my shoes that I have been using and people online seemed overall quite happy with them, so that's that. For now.
This was going to be an evening run, after having a bad headache all afternoon. It took forever to psych myself up. I knew people would be out, because the weather was frakking perfect, and I did not want to deal with other people, at all.
Alas, I strapped on my super-nerdy knee braces and set out. I walked 4 minutes, past the first house at my corner/turn-off. Here, I had a bit of a realization about how much I hate seeing my "neighbors" when I go for a run. WHEN we eventually move away from here, I suppose I will miss seeing things like adult men sitting in dining room chairs in the middle of a relatively busy street. When we live somewhere quasi-normal and people aren't inbred hillbillies, I suppose it will be boring to just run past other runners and apparently average human beings all the time. I should embrace the insanity I get to see each time I leave the house, because someday I won't have this. Right?
Anyway, I took off running, and I had no knee pain. I had taken a brief break from running, but this was amazing. I felt like I was capable of going faster, too. I ran 11 minutes, up to the end of my figure 8, into the neighborhood, back up a block, and halfway onto the first mini block back towards the figure 8 when I was crippled by cramps. It had been building for a little over a block, but I assumed it would pass. Now, here I am, nearly at the farthest point that I get from home and I almost can't stand up.
This was one of the admittedly rare occasions that I had to stop running for physical reasons. I broke into a cold sweat. I thought I was going to be sick. I was very slowly making my way towards home. Of course, as I suspected, the whole universe was outside. I was walking a portion of my route that I don't think I have EVER walked and I was not enjoying the scenery.
I considered calling Husband. He was at home, napping. IF I woke him up, it would take him a few minutes to get ready to leave the house and a few more to drive out to me, and I just kept thinking that the cramps would pass by the time he got to me anyway.
As I walked past the school, I noticed a little bench by the door. I almost sat down, like I almost sat down on so many stoops that I went by, but I feared I wouldn't be able to get up. I just kept stumbling along, taking a different route than usual to get back (I didn't want to walk past the guy in the middle of the street when I was doubled over in pain). Finally, the pain eased up enough that I could at least straighten up and walk semi-normal, but there was no way I was going to attempt more running. It took me 20 minutes to get home.
When I took off my knee straps, my legs were numb from the knee down. Me thinks they were on a bit too tight (I still don't understand how they stay on)! The right knee was slightly painful, but nothing like how I expect it would have been without the strap.
I was hugely disappointed to waste the perfect running weather on this, but then I measured my route, and had actually ran 1.48K/.92 mi, resulting in an obscene (for me) 11:58 pace.
Time: 7:30pm
Weather: 72, Sunny, 8 mph, 62%
Just run: 11:00
Distance: 1.48K/.92 mi
Elevation: +25.1/-35.1/net -10.1 ft
5K/10K: 40:58/1:26:36
Pace: 11.96
I've also been toying with the idea of getting some new shoes. My first pair were quite inexpensive and I have worn the tread completely off of them in places. I have some birthday cash that would get me a decent pair of shoes, and now that I know I want to stick with running, I see no reason why I shouldn't invest in the proper equipment.
I talked to my boss about it and she said different shoes probably wouldn't really help my knees. We figure I probably just tried to do too much too fast and didn't build my muscles up enough to support my knees when I came back. She also talked about how fast she wore her shoes out (she runs halfs). I kind of decided to just stick with more inexpensive shoes - they'll get worn out just as fast. I actually did some research on my shoes that I have been using and people online seemed overall quite happy with them, so that's that. For now.
This was going to be an evening run, after having a bad headache all afternoon. It took forever to psych myself up. I knew people would be out, because the weather was frakking perfect, and I did not want to deal with other people, at all.
Alas, I strapped on my super-nerdy knee braces and set out. I walked 4 minutes, past the first house at my corner/turn-off. Here, I had a bit of a realization about how much I hate seeing my "neighbors" when I go for a run. WHEN we eventually move away from here, I suppose I will miss seeing things like adult men sitting in dining room chairs in the middle of a relatively busy street. When we live somewhere quasi-normal and people aren't inbred hillbillies, I suppose it will be boring to just run past other runners and apparently average human beings all the time. I should embrace the insanity I get to see each time I leave the house, because someday I won't have this. Right?
Anyway, I took off running, and I had no knee pain. I had taken a brief break from running, but this was amazing. I felt like I was capable of going faster, too. I ran 11 minutes, up to the end of my figure 8, into the neighborhood, back up a block, and halfway onto the first mini block back towards the figure 8 when I was crippled by cramps. It had been building for a little over a block, but I assumed it would pass. Now, here I am, nearly at the farthest point that I get from home and I almost can't stand up.
This was one of the admittedly rare occasions that I had to stop running for physical reasons. I broke into a cold sweat. I thought I was going to be sick. I was very slowly making my way towards home. Of course, as I suspected, the whole universe was outside. I was walking a portion of my route that I don't think I have EVER walked and I was not enjoying the scenery.
I considered calling Husband. He was at home, napping. IF I woke him up, it would take him a few minutes to get ready to leave the house and a few more to drive out to me, and I just kept thinking that the cramps would pass by the time he got to me anyway.
As I walked past the school, I noticed a little bench by the door. I almost sat down, like I almost sat down on so many stoops that I went by, but I feared I wouldn't be able to get up. I just kept stumbling along, taking a different route than usual to get back (I didn't want to walk past the guy in the middle of the street when I was doubled over in pain). Finally, the pain eased up enough that I could at least straighten up and walk semi-normal, but there was no way I was going to attempt more running. It took me 20 minutes to get home.
When I took off my knee straps, my legs were numb from the knee down. Me thinks they were on a bit too tight (I still don't understand how they stay on)! The right knee was slightly painful, but nothing like how I expect it would have been without the strap.
I was hugely disappointed to waste the perfect running weather on this, but then I measured my route, and had actually ran 1.48K/.92 mi, resulting in an obscene (for me) 11:58 pace.
Time: 7:30pm
Weather: 72, Sunny, 8 mph, 62%
Just run: 11:00
Distance: 1.48K/.92 mi
Elevation: +25.1/-35.1/net -10.1 ft
5K/10K: 40:58/1:26:36
Pace: 11.96
Friday, June 17, 2011
It's my birthday, I'll assault you if I want to
Today I was going into work at 9, so I easily had time to get my run in. Since it's a weekday, it's time to get some speedwork done.
First, though, there were storms in the area. I checked the tv and theweatherchannel.com and was assured I would have time to get a run in. It looked pretty close, so I ran with my mp3 on the local radio station. They also assured the masses the storms were en route, but not before my run would be over. It was steamy this morning, so I really needed to wear my shorter shorts, which do not have pockets. I ran with my mp3 and phone in one hand and my pepper spray in the other. It was just one of those days where I didn't feel like I should go out without it. Which is pretty much everyday these days.
I walked to the corner (4 mins/.4K/.25mi). The next 7 minutes, I covered the ground from the corner where I have been starting my runs near, to the curve near the end of the figure-8. A lot happened in those 7 minutes.
In the second block of my run, a downhill block, I sped up. I was full-on running and it felt great. I loved it. My stride felt exactly how it should, my footstrikes felt right. This is what I want to be able to do all the time. I got winded pretty soundly, but wanted to make it to the end of the block, so I kept on. This leads to a block-long uphill, a slight leveling off, then another downhill. At the level point, I sped up again. I'm not crazy - I couldn't speed up on an uphill, but I didn't want to make it so all the speedwork was done going downhill. So I hustled through another half block, partway into the downhill. I also wanted to use the downhill as recovery before the next uphill to a busy-ish intersection.
Going up that hill, I was quite winded. As much as I was enjoying the full-out running, I was pretty sure I couldn't keep this up for 30 minutes. As I approached the intersection, I was checking for traffic. There was a guy coming up on my right, walking a dog. I was dying, but I did my normal, casual wave - one hand raised, barely a wave, but at least an acknowledgement where I am doing my best to be friendly to strangers, something I am not generally a fan of doing. Oh, did I mention I was carrying my pepper spray in my hand I waved with? Oh, yes, I am such a friendly person, that when you see me for the first time I hold up all the weapons I am carrying, as if to say, don't bother with me, I will attack you first. I realized almost immediately what I had done. Thankfully, there was no traffic so I could continue on my somewhat mortified/highly amused way.
After crossing that intersection, I sped up on a slight uphill towards the curve. This was a short burst, but they are supposed to be random. Afterwards, though, I was tapped. I was so done. When I hit that curve, I started walking (1.34K/.83mi). I didn't finish my route; I turned back for home and walked up until the school entrance (1.76K/1.09mi).
Despite the local radio's continued assurances, there was thunder getting ever closer, and I didn't like it one bit, so I took off running again. I made it about 2 minutes (2.07K/1.29mi). I had had one last burst of speed, for about 10-15 feet with the goal of some random tree. This was my 4th speed burst - Runner's World had suggested 5-6 per run, but this was also a pathetic excuse for a run, over all.
I walked the last 8 minutes home (2.84K/1.77mi). There were just a few sprinkles before I got home, but all weather sources were correct in that the big storms did not hit until I was enjoying my fried smores and opening my birthday presents around the dining room table. Even before the smores, I was quite thirsty today and had to ice my knees immediately. The right knee may be worse now. Something else I've noticed since I started running again is that my legs twitch all over, wildly, incessantly. It doesn't hurt, and you can't see it. Husband assures me that it's normal, but I must say, I don't entirely believe him.
Weather: 68, mostly cloudy, 7mph, 90% humidity, feels like 68 (no)
Time: 6am; Walk 4, Run 7, Walk 5, Run 2, Walk 8
Distance: 2.84K/1.77mi
Elevation: +34.2/-29/net 5.2 ft
Just run: 9:00
Distance: 1.25K/.78 mi (oy.)
5K/10K: 30:37/1:04:42
Pace: 12.07
First, though, there were storms in the area. I checked the tv and theweatherchannel.com and was assured I would have time to get a run in. It looked pretty close, so I ran with my mp3 on the local radio station. They also assured the masses the storms were en route, but not before my run would be over. It was steamy this morning, so I really needed to wear my shorter shorts, which do not have pockets. I ran with my mp3 and phone in one hand and my pepper spray in the other. It was just one of those days where I didn't feel like I should go out without it. Which is pretty much everyday these days.
I walked to the corner (4 mins/.4K/.25mi). The next 7 minutes, I covered the ground from the corner where I have been starting my runs near, to the curve near the end of the figure-8. A lot happened in those 7 minutes.
In the second block of my run, a downhill block, I sped up. I was full-on running and it felt great. I loved it. My stride felt exactly how it should, my footstrikes felt right. This is what I want to be able to do all the time. I got winded pretty soundly, but wanted to make it to the end of the block, so I kept on. This leads to a block-long uphill, a slight leveling off, then another downhill. At the level point, I sped up again. I'm not crazy - I couldn't speed up on an uphill, but I didn't want to make it so all the speedwork was done going downhill. So I hustled through another half block, partway into the downhill. I also wanted to use the downhill as recovery before the next uphill to a busy-ish intersection.
Going up that hill, I was quite winded. As much as I was enjoying the full-out running, I was pretty sure I couldn't keep this up for 30 minutes. As I approached the intersection, I was checking for traffic. There was a guy coming up on my right, walking a dog. I was dying, but I did my normal, casual wave - one hand raised, barely a wave, but at least an acknowledgement where I am doing my best to be friendly to strangers, something I am not generally a fan of doing. Oh, did I mention I was carrying my pepper spray in my hand I waved with? Oh, yes, I am such a friendly person, that when you see me for the first time I hold up all the weapons I am carrying, as if to say, don't bother with me, I will attack you first. I realized almost immediately what I had done. Thankfully, there was no traffic so I could continue on my somewhat mortified/highly amused way.
After crossing that intersection, I sped up on a slight uphill towards the curve. This was a short burst, but they are supposed to be random. Afterwards, though, I was tapped. I was so done. When I hit that curve, I started walking (1.34K/.83mi). I didn't finish my route; I turned back for home and walked up until the school entrance (1.76K/1.09mi).
Despite the local radio's continued assurances, there was thunder getting ever closer, and I didn't like it one bit, so I took off running again. I made it about 2 minutes (2.07K/1.29mi). I had had one last burst of speed, for about 10-15 feet with the goal of some random tree. This was my 4th speed burst - Runner's World had suggested 5-6 per run, but this was also a pathetic excuse for a run, over all.
I walked the last 8 minutes home (2.84K/1.77mi). There were just a few sprinkles before I got home, but all weather sources were correct in that the big storms did not hit until I was enjoying my fried smores and opening my birthday presents around the dining room table. Even before the smores, I was quite thirsty today and had to ice my knees immediately. The right knee may be worse now. Something else I've noticed since I started running again is that my legs twitch all over, wildly, incessantly. It doesn't hurt, and you can't see it. Husband assures me that it's normal, but I must say, I don't entirely believe him.
Weather: 68, mostly cloudy, 7mph, 90% humidity, feels like 68 (no)
Time: 6am; Walk 4, Run 7, Walk 5, Run 2, Walk 8
Distance: 2.84K/1.77mi
Elevation: +34.2/-29/net 5.2 ft
Just run: 9:00
Distance: 1.25K/.78 mi (oy.)
5K/10K: 30:37/1:04:42
Pace: 12.07
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Weekend Run = Long Run = Awesome
Going for the 5K today.
I started with a 4 minute walk to the corner (.37K/.23mi). I took off running and my knee was hurting.
As I got to the end of the figure-8, where I have been turning into my mini-Cali-like-zen-hood, I saw a runner on the next block headed in the same direction that I would soon be going. I estimated the timing and tried to remember if her road was a dead end, and I feared when I got to the end of the street in my hood, we would be side by side. I nailed that prediction, but while I only stayed on that street a block before I turned back to my regular route, she kept going. She was just ahead of me, and I noticed she had the same slow shuffling stride that I have mastered, and she had some kind of straps around her knees. I made a note to find out what that was all about.
I headed back through my route and as I neared the twist of my 8, I realized she was still a block over, running at about the same pace. Somehow, this was encouraging. Someone else runs as slow as me!
I was getting very hot and thirsty. Thank goodness I opted for shorts, even though it was only 60 degrees. I was hungry, too, and here I was, going for a 5K so shortly after returning to running!
I managed to not check the time until I had been running for 28 minutes (just past the post office)! Then I was curious, so I kept an eye on the time. At the 30 minute mark, I was halfway down the first block after I start the long downhill stretch (3.57K/2.22 mi into run). At the 40 minute mark, I was a block away from turning onto my block (4.73K/2.94 mi). The 3.1 mile mark was a half block from my house, approximately at the 42:30 mark of my run.
I wasn't sure while running where the 5K mark would be, since I'm walking at the beginning and have added my little neighborhood detour on, but I was pretty sure when I got to my alley that I should have completed it. This was at 43 minutes and actually 5.07K/3.15mi.
I was pretty stoked about finishing, but needed to have a cooldown walk, so I went up the alley and around the short end of the block, back to home.
I was exhausted, and my knees were killing me, but I am thrilled with meeting this goal. I could barely walk as the day wore on. Uh-oh.
Weather: 60, partly cloudy, 5 mph, 88% humidity, feels like 60
Time: 7am; Walk 4, Run 43, Walk 3
Distance: 5.75K/3.57mi
Elevation: +111.2/-109.4/net 1.8 ft
Just run: 43:00
Distance: 5.07K/3.15mi
5K/10K: 42:22/1:29:34
Pace: 13.65
P.S. With this run, I have RUN over 100 miles total. :) Go me.
I started with a 4 minute walk to the corner (.37K/.23mi). I took off running and my knee was hurting.
As I got to the end of the figure-8, where I have been turning into my mini-Cali-like-zen-hood, I saw a runner on the next block headed in the same direction that I would soon be going. I estimated the timing and tried to remember if her road was a dead end, and I feared when I got to the end of the street in my hood, we would be side by side. I nailed that prediction, but while I only stayed on that street a block before I turned back to my regular route, she kept going. She was just ahead of me, and I noticed she had the same slow shuffling stride that I have mastered, and she had some kind of straps around her knees. I made a note to find out what that was all about.
I headed back through my route and as I neared the twist of my 8, I realized she was still a block over, running at about the same pace. Somehow, this was encouraging. Someone else runs as slow as me!
I was getting very hot and thirsty. Thank goodness I opted for shorts, even though it was only 60 degrees. I was hungry, too, and here I was, going for a 5K so shortly after returning to running!
I managed to not check the time until I had been running for 28 minutes (just past the post office)! Then I was curious, so I kept an eye on the time. At the 30 minute mark, I was halfway down the first block after I start the long downhill stretch (3.57K/2.22 mi into run). At the 40 minute mark, I was a block away from turning onto my block (4.73K/2.94 mi). The 3.1 mile mark was a half block from my house, approximately at the 42:30 mark of my run.
I wasn't sure while running where the 5K mark would be, since I'm walking at the beginning and have added my little neighborhood detour on, but I was pretty sure when I got to my alley that I should have completed it. This was at 43 minutes and actually 5.07K/3.15mi.
I was pretty stoked about finishing, but needed to have a cooldown walk, so I went up the alley and around the short end of the block, back to home.
I was exhausted, and my knees were killing me, but I am thrilled with meeting this goal. I could barely walk as the day wore on. Uh-oh.
Weather: 60, partly cloudy, 5 mph, 88% humidity, feels like 60
Time: 7am; Walk 4, Run 43, Walk 3
Distance: 5.75K/3.57mi
Elevation: +111.2/-109.4/net 1.8 ft
Just run: 43:00
Distance: 5.07K/3.15mi
5K/10K: 42:22/1:29:34
Pace: 13.65
P.S. With this run, I have RUN over 100 miles total. :) Go me.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Training Ideas
I've given a little thought to adding some speedwork into my training and how to get to work on time and be able to get longer runs in.
During the week, if I run in the morning, I'll only have about 30 minutes to do so, so on these runs, the sole goal will be to run farther each day than the last, in the same amount of time. I need to note 1 and 2 miles on the map so I can keep track of splits.
If it's an evening or weekend run, I'll add 5 minutes to each run.
From researching on Runner's World, I got some tips on speedwork that I think I'll work into my weekday runs:
They suggest randomly throw in 5-6 speedups during one or two runs per week. Each week, add 1-2 speedups, or extend the length of each one. After 3-4 weeks, run 1 minute hard, 2 minutes easy, for a total of 21 minutes. Add 1 combo each week until you're at 30 minutes per week.
Another suggestion from RW that would fit my new training plan, calls for a 5 minute warm up, 1 minute hard run, 2 minute jog - repeat 7 times, with a 4 minute cool down (3o minute total).
During the week, if I run in the morning, I'll only have about 30 minutes to do so, so on these runs, the sole goal will be to run farther each day than the last, in the same amount of time. I need to note 1 and 2 miles on the map so I can keep track of splits.
If it's an evening or weekend run, I'll add 5 minutes to each run.
From researching on Runner's World, I got some tips on speedwork that I think I'll work into my weekday runs:
They suggest randomly throw in 5-6 speedups during one or two runs per week. Each week, add 1-2 speedups, or extend the length of each one. After 3-4 weeks, run 1 minute hard, 2 minutes easy, for a total of 21 minutes. Add 1 combo each week until you're at 30 minutes per week.
Another suggestion from RW that would fit my new training plan, calls for a 5 minute warm up, 1 minute hard run, 2 minute jog - repeat 7 times, with a 4 minute cool down (3o minute total).
Friday, June 10, 2011
Mission Accomplished
Another attempt at running before work had me up and bumbling around in the dark this morning. This was the first day in two weeks that I truly felt like not running. I wasn't motivated in the least, not even by my goal of running 30 minutes two weeks (and a day) after starting running again being achievable today. I kept an eye on the light outside and realized I can probably head out about 20 minutes before the official sunrise time and still be safely visible. I desperately need that extra time to be able to get to work on time. (Noted for next time; it was too late to get that jump today!)
I set out for my 5 minute walk (.45K/.28mi), then tried to start my run. My left knee hurt so sharply and made my leg so wobbly, that I was forced to overcompensate with an odd stride on my right side - which, naturally, caused that leg to start hurting pretty quickly. Then, my left leg started hurting in places other than my knee as I tried to adjust and find a way through this. Finally, the pain in both legs subsided, more or less, and I was on my way to meeting my first goal of the new running year.
I decided not to run through the little neighborhood at the edge of town in the interest of heading through the other loop of my Figure 8 route. I haven't been on that loop at all, and have to admit, it was psyching me out a bit. Partly because there's a lot of trees and I feared the cicada concentrations, but mostly because, as the name of the blog implies, change just isn't my thing.
I noted a couple of times along my run and thought that I was running faster than my last terribly slow run, which is ridiculous because of the knee pain and just overall disinterest. I was bored out of my freaking mind on the run today. I had forgotten how bored I get on the longer runs. Since I didn't run through that neighborhood today, I was doing a lot of math, trying to calculate how far I had run and the difference in times between the runs. I really accomplished nothing with that.
I ran through our downtown, past the post office, and into my loop. I was pretty wiped out at this point, but not far into the loop begins a long downhill and I was pretty sure if I made it that far I would be able to finish my time.
As I ran downhill, I started fearing the slight uphill at the end of the street, and as I continued even more with time standing still, I started to fear the significant uphill around the corner at the end. Mercifully, the timer went off right at the end of the road. 3.59K/2.23mi.
I actually still had a little in the tank and if all roads hadn't gone straight up (and if I had more time before work), I may have pressed on. It took me 10 minutes to walk home, finishing out my lovely old 5K route, and there were a couple of times I almost burst into run (mostly because I still had it in me, partly because it was taking so long to get home). I didn't mean to get so far away from the house, but I couldn't very well turn off the long downhill at the end of a 30 minute run when every option was an up. My walk was .92K/.57mi.
It wasn't so hot today and I was pleasantly surprised to see the actual distances I went, especially since it didn't feel that great. I ended up icing my knees this evening - about 15 on the left, 15 on the right and another 15 on the left. That seemed to help, but then I got out my It's All Good oil that was sent to me last year (apparently the maker isn't selling it anymore which devastates me), and it literally made the pain go away. This pain in my knee has been so sharp that I didn't think oils could touch it, and it wiped the pain OUT. {{Note from Saturday, 6/11/11:: I ended up in bed about 12 hours last night and awoke with ZERO pain in my knee. Will ice and oil again tonight, just to be safe.}}
Well, I made a couple changes to the blog layout. They'll grow on me. You know how I am with change. I did go back to my Day 66 post to find a new blog description. Took down the old, "I set out to run past jazz musicians. I should have just put on a cd," and put up the new, "Running has taught me to appreciate the important things in life: like being able to breathe." All true.
Weather: 70, partly cloudy, 6mph, 78% humidity, feels like 70
Time: 6am; Walk 5, Run 30, Walk 10
Distance: 4.96K/3.08mi
Elevation: +84.8/-85.6/net-.8 ft
Just run: 30:00
Distance: 3.59K/2.23mi
5K/10K: 42:56/1:30:45
Pace: 13.45 (While still lousy, this pleasantly shocked me.)
I set out for my 5 minute walk (.45K/.28mi), then tried to start my run. My left knee hurt so sharply and made my leg so wobbly, that I was forced to overcompensate with an odd stride on my right side - which, naturally, caused that leg to start hurting pretty quickly. Then, my left leg started hurting in places other than my knee as I tried to adjust and find a way through this. Finally, the pain in both legs subsided, more or less, and I was on my way to meeting my first goal of the new running year.
I decided not to run through the little neighborhood at the edge of town in the interest of heading through the other loop of my Figure 8 route. I haven't been on that loop at all, and have to admit, it was psyching me out a bit. Partly because there's a lot of trees and I feared the cicada concentrations, but mostly because, as the name of the blog implies, change just isn't my thing.
I noted a couple of times along my run and thought that I was running faster than my last terribly slow run, which is ridiculous because of the knee pain and just overall disinterest. I was bored out of my freaking mind on the run today. I had forgotten how bored I get on the longer runs. Since I didn't run through that neighborhood today, I was doing a lot of math, trying to calculate how far I had run and the difference in times between the runs. I really accomplished nothing with that.
I ran through our downtown, past the post office, and into my loop. I was pretty wiped out at this point, but not far into the loop begins a long downhill and I was pretty sure if I made it that far I would be able to finish my time.
As I ran downhill, I started fearing the slight uphill at the end of the street, and as I continued even more with time standing still, I started to fear the significant uphill around the corner at the end. Mercifully, the timer went off right at the end of the road. 3.59K/2.23mi.
I actually still had a little in the tank and if all roads hadn't gone straight up (and if I had more time before work), I may have pressed on. It took me 10 minutes to walk home, finishing out my lovely old 5K route, and there were a couple of times I almost burst into run (mostly because I still had it in me, partly because it was taking so long to get home). I didn't mean to get so far away from the house, but I couldn't very well turn off the long downhill at the end of a 30 minute run when every option was an up. My walk was .92K/.57mi.
It wasn't so hot today and I was pleasantly surprised to see the actual distances I went, especially since it didn't feel that great. I ended up icing my knees this evening - about 15 on the left, 15 on the right and another 15 on the left. That seemed to help, but then I got out my It's All Good oil that was sent to me last year (apparently the maker isn't selling it anymore which devastates me), and it literally made the pain go away. This pain in my knee has been so sharp that I didn't think oils could touch it, and it wiped the pain OUT. {{Note from Saturday, 6/11/11:: I ended up in bed about 12 hours last night and awoke with ZERO pain in my knee. Will ice and oil again tonight, just to be safe.}}
Well, I made a couple changes to the blog layout. They'll grow on me. You know how I am with change. I did go back to my Day 66 post to find a new blog description. Took down the old, "I set out to run past jazz musicians. I should have just put on a cd," and put up the new, "Running has taught me to appreciate the important things in life: like being able to breathe." All true.
Weather: 70, partly cloudy, 6mph, 78% humidity, feels like 70
Time: 6am; Walk 5, Run 30, Walk 10
Distance: 4.96K/3.08mi
Elevation: +84.8/-85.6/net-.8 ft
Just run: 30:00
Distance: 3.59K/2.23mi
5K/10K: 42:56/1:30:45
Pace: 13.45 (While still lousy, this pleasantly shocked me.)
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Ridiculous.
I am finally going to run before I go to a job. This has been 400 days in the making. I'm pretty excited. And not just because I spent all day yesterday wishing it was a run day. Actually, my left knee was kinda out of whack yesterday, so I was probably smart to have a rest. Like, when you stand up and you feel like your leg below your knee is not under any type of control from your muscles/tendons/ligaments? That's probably not good.
I wake up. I know I have just shut off my alarm and time is of the essence. First I have to will myself fully awake. I'm excited about the run and I don't want to be late for work...and I have to pee (there's a lot of hydrating going on this time of year)...Wait. It's really dark. I know if my alarm just went off, it's still a good 40 minutes until sunrise, but it is really, really dark. I finally roll over and look at the clock. It's 3 am. I'm a full two hours early, and now wide awake. What kind of monster have I become? I couldn't help thinking of one particularly evil PE teacher I had when I stumbled back to bed from the bathroom. Oh, I hope she never hears about this, because I don't want to give her the pleasure.
Once I appropriately headed out at sunrise, I did the 5 minute walk (.47K/.29mi), then as soon as I started the run, that left knee about floored me. Or sidewalked me, as it were. It had felt pretty good while I was getting ready, so I was disappointed. It hurt so bad that I almost stopped running for fear of doing damage. But I really, really want to run 30 minutes within 2 weeks of starting back up! So I kept running, and I'm assuming based strictly on the strength from the falafel I had for dinner last night, the pain mostly went away.
I was feeling good on the run. Breath, ok. Legs, good. Temperature, perfect. Thirsty, no. Hills, not an issue. I ran through my new neighborhood and headed for the long long long flat stretch back to the main road. I was going for 26 minutes today, and with about 9 to go, I did start to wear down. I had been having the upper stomach/lower chest cramps again, along with just feeling very nauseous. I had a pretty good idea where my finish line was going to be today, and that still seems to be a huge help to keep me from COMPULSIVELY checking the time.
My alarm went off about half a block sooner than I expected, which pretty well confirmed what I was already suspecting - that I was behind on my pace. I definitely did not feel like I was running slow, but I finished my run at 2.96K/1.84mi...and since it was a 26 minute run, I clearly was above a 13 minute mile, which I would like to be well below again.
I walked the 5 minutes home - .45K/.28mi - and got ready for work as quickly as possible. I was only 5 minutes late. I now know I can do this, I just have to streamline a couple of things!
Weather: 74, Sunny, 8mph wind (I don't think there was any wind), 76% humidity, feels like 74
Time: 6am; Walk 5, Run 26, Walk 5
Distance: 3.88K/2.41mi
Elevation: +57.5/-56.6/net .9 ft
Just run: 26:00
Distance: 2.96K/1.84 mi
5K/10K: 45:49/1:36:50
Pace on 26 minutes over 1.84 mi = 14.13 (gross)
I wake up. I know I have just shut off my alarm and time is of the essence. First I have to will myself fully awake. I'm excited about the run and I don't want to be late for work...and I have to pee (there's a lot of hydrating going on this time of year)...Wait. It's really dark. I know if my alarm just went off, it's still a good 40 minutes until sunrise, but it is really, really dark. I finally roll over and look at the clock. It's 3 am. I'm a full two hours early, and now wide awake. What kind of monster have I become? I couldn't help thinking of one particularly evil PE teacher I had when I stumbled back to bed from the bathroom. Oh, I hope she never hears about this, because I don't want to give her the pleasure.
Once I appropriately headed out at sunrise, I did the 5 minute walk (.47K/.29mi), then as soon as I started the run, that left knee about floored me. Or sidewalked me, as it were. It had felt pretty good while I was getting ready, so I was disappointed. It hurt so bad that I almost stopped running for fear of doing damage. But I really, really want to run 30 minutes within 2 weeks of starting back up! So I kept running, and I'm assuming based strictly on the strength from the falafel I had for dinner last night, the pain mostly went away.
I was feeling good on the run. Breath, ok. Legs, good. Temperature, perfect. Thirsty, no. Hills, not an issue. I ran through my new neighborhood and headed for the long long long flat stretch back to the main road. I was going for 26 minutes today, and with about 9 to go, I did start to wear down. I had been having the upper stomach/lower chest cramps again, along with just feeling very nauseous. I had a pretty good idea where my finish line was going to be today, and that still seems to be a huge help to keep me from COMPULSIVELY checking the time.
My alarm went off about half a block sooner than I expected, which pretty well confirmed what I was already suspecting - that I was behind on my pace. I definitely did not feel like I was running slow, but I finished my run at 2.96K/1.84mi...and since it was a 26 minute run, I clearly was above a 13 minute mile, which I would like to be well below again.
I walked the 5 minutes home - .45K/.28mi - and got ready for work as quickly as possible. I was only 5 minutes late. I now know I can do this, I just have to streamline a couple of things!
Weather: 74, Sunny, 8mph wind (I don't think there was any wind), 76% humidity, feels like 74
Time: 6am; Walk 5, Run 26, Walk 5
Distance: 3.88K/2.41mi
Elevation: +57.5/-56.6/net .9 ft
Just run: 26:00
Distance: 2.96K/1.84 mi
5K/10K: 45:49/1:36:50
Pace on 26 minutes over 1.84 mi = 14.13 (gross)
Monday, June 6, 2011
So this is vacation running
Today I took a vacation day so that I could again go to the Blind Boone Ragtime Festival. This actually meant that I had an extra half hour to get ready this morning. Thanks in part to that, I was able to get my run in before it got exceptionally hot later in the day.
First of all, the cicadas. They are ridiculous. There's one tree line on my warmup walk where they are so loud, and the road is just coated in their smushed carcasses. It's foul. Second. Worms. Why are there worms all over the ground flopping all over the place?! Guh-ross.
As soon as I finished my 5 minute warmup walk (.46K/.29mi), I had a bit of knee pain. It was totally unexpected and out of nowhere, but mercifully did not last too long, because I had to spend most of my run contending with a mid-lower chest cramp. I also tried to focus on hitting on my heel and rolling up to my toe. It seemed like I was doing well with that, although my pace for the day does not reflect it.
I turned to run through my new little neighborhood when I kept hearing what I thought was a dog barking nearby. Actually it was a couple of runners going up the middle of the road, with sidewalks on both sides, yelling so loud I heard them over the cicadas and mp3 player at 6am. Fn Toolbags.
As I ran back down the long flat past the school, there was a woman sitting out on her stoop and she very friendily said good morning. A. I'm not used to anyone being nice around here. B. I was at about the 20 minute mark and could hardly breathe. But I managed to wave a little and mouth good morning. Bah, maybe all runners are toolbags. Oh, except some of us are because we're too tired to be nice, and some are because they're too cocky to be civilized.
Finished my run at the turn off back to the house at 22 minutes - 2.63K - 1.63mi. Took a 5 minute walk home (.47K/.29mi) and promptly downed a Dew and my choco chip/pb waffles. In 2 days I'm gonna go for 26 minutes, then Friday I'll go for 30. That'll be two weeks and a day from my first run back!
No big review for the Ragtime Festival, but a quick list of the performers at the open piano this morning. Again, an amazingly free experience. Oh, and a very interesting session on copyright law which, of course, everything I write on this blog is, unless quoting someone else, where I always try to give due credit.
Performers: Jack & Chris Bradshaw, Larisa Migachyov, Will Perkins, Nan Bostick, Frederick Hodges, Jim Radloff, Steve Standiford, Dave Tucker, Reginald Robinson, Max Keenlyside, Benjamin Anderson, and Bob Ault.
Weather: 71, Dawn, 7mph wind (I felt no wind), 85% humidity, feels like 72
Time: 6AM; Walk 5, Run 22, Walk 5
Distance: 3.56K/2.21mi
Elevation: +53.3/-53.9/net -.6ft
Just run: 22:00
Distance: 2.63K/1.63mi
5K/10K: 44:10/1:33:21
Pace: 22 min over 1.63mi = 13.5
First of all, the cicadas. They are ridiculous. There's one tree line on my warmup walk where they are so loud, and the road is just coated in their smushed carcasses. It's foul. Second. Worms. Why are there worms all over the ground flopping all over the place?! Guh-ross.
As soon as I finished my 5 minute warmup walk (.46K/.29mi), I had a bit of knee pain. It was totally unexpected and out of nowhere, but mercifully did not last too long, because I had to spend most of my run contending with a mid-lower chest cramp. I also tried to focus on hitting on my heel and rolling up to my toe. It seemed like I was doing well with that, although my pace for the day does not reflect it.
I turned to run through my new little neighborhood when I kept hearing what I thought was a dog barking nearby. Actually it was a couple of runners going up the middle of the road, with sidewalks on both sides, yelling so loud I heard them over the cicadas and mp3 player at 6am. Fn Toolbags.
As I ran back down the long flat past the school, there was a woman sitting out on her stoop and she very friendily said good morning. A. I'm not used to anyone being nice around here. B. I was at about the 20 minute mark and could hardly breathe. But I managed to wave a little and mouth good morning. Bah, maybe all runners are toolbags. Oh, except some of us are because we're too tired to be nice, and some are because they're too cocky to be civilized.
Finished my run at the turn off back to the house at 22 minutes - 2.63K - 1.63mi. Took a 5 minute walk home (.47K/.29mi) and promptly downed a Dew and my choco chip/pb waffles. In 2 days I'm gonna go for 26 minutes, then Friday I'll go for 30. That'll be two weeks and a day from my first run back!
No big review for the Ragtime Festival, but a quick list of the performers at the open piano this morning. Again, an amazingly free experience. Oh, and a very interesting session on copyright law which, of course, everything I write on this blog is, unless quoting someone else, where I always try to give due credit.
Performers: Jack & Chris Bradshaw, Larisa Migachyov, Will Perkins, Nan Bostick, Frederick Hodges, Jim Radloff, Steve Standiford, Dave Tucker, Reginald Robinson, Max Keenlyside, Benjamin Anderson, and Bob Ault.
Weather: 71, Dawn, 7mph wind (I felt no wind), 85% humidity, feels like 72
Time: 6AM; Walk 5, Run 22, Walk 5
Distance: 3.56K/2.21mi
Elevation: +53.3/-53.9/net -.6ft
Just run: 22:00
Distance: 2.63K/1.63mi
5K/10K: 44:10/1:33:21
Pace: 22 min over 1.63mi = 13.5
Sunday, June 5, 2011
My 2010 Stats and Making Changes
I want to take my prior year monthly stats off the side of the blog, so I thought I would stick them in a post I could easily get to.
For 2010, I didn't separate the run from the walk for stat purposes for the first month. I didn't know if I'd ever be able to run a whole 5K, but I now know that if I were in a race something would have to go horribly wrong to walk part of it. So, the stats kept all through 2010 were for run and walk. Those total stats are in this post.
The new totals for 2010 on the side of the blog will be run only - so, they won't include the first month of stats (May 2010). The 2011 stats and the Grand Total will of course just be run-only as well.
2010 Total Time: 26.11 hours
Distance: 190.08K (118.13mi)
5K/10K Predictor Avg: 44:01/1:33:02
December 2010 Time: .78 hour
Distance: 5.51K (3.43mi)
5K/10K Predictor Avg: 42:07/1:29:02
November 2010 Time: 2.92 hours
Distance: 21.43K (13.32mi)
5K/10K Predictor Avg: 40:39/1:25:55
October 2010 Time: 3.84 hours
Distance: 27.67K (17.19mi)
5K/10K Predictor Avg: 41:46/1:28:17
September 2010 Time: 2.85 hours
Distance: 21.92K (13.63mi)
5K/10K Predictor Avg: 40:31/1:25:39
August 2010 Time: 3.71 hours
Distance: 29.72K (18.47mi)
5K/10K Predictor Avg: 38:50/1:22:05
July 2010 Time: 5.37 hours
Distance: 39.06K (24.26mi)
5K/10K Predictor Avg: 44:01/1:32:54
June 2010 Time: 3.47 hours
Distance: 24.28K (15.1mi)
5K/10K Predictor Avg: 45:48/1:36:48
May 2010 Time: 3.18 hours
Distance: 20.49K (12.73mi)
5K/10K Predictor Avg: 51:23/1:48:37
For 2010, I didn't separate the run from the walk for stat purposes for the first month. I didn't know if I'd ever be able to run a whole 5K, but I now know that if I were in a race something would have to go horribly wrong to walk part of it. So, the stats kept all through 2010 were for run and walk. Those total stats are in this post.
The new totals for 2010 on the side of the blog will be run only - so, they won't include the first month of stats (May 2010). The 2011 stats and the Grand Total will of course just be run-only as well.
2010 Total Time: 26.11 hours
Distance: 190.08K (118.13mi)
5K/10K Predictor Avg: 44:01/1:33:02
December 2010 Time: .78 hour
Distance: 5.51K (3.43mi)
5K/10K Predictor Avg: 42:07/1:29:02
November 2010 Time: 2.92 hours
Distance: 21.43K (13.32mi)
5K/10K Predictor Avg: 40:39/1:25:55
October 2010 Time: 3.84 hours
Distance: 27.67K (17.19mi)
5K/10K Predictor Avg: 41:46/1:28:17
September 2010 Time: 2.85 hours
Distance: 21.92K (13.63mi)
5K/10K Predictor Avg: 40:31/1:25:39
August 2010 Time: 3.71 hours
Distance: 29.72K (18.47mi)
5K/10K Predictor Avg: 38:50/1:22:05
July 2010 Time: 5.37 hours
Distance: 39.06K (24.26mi)
5K/10K Predictor Avg: 44:01/1:32:54
June 2010 Time: 3.47 hours
Distance: 24.28K (15.1mi)
5K/10K Predictor Avg: 45:48/1:36:48
May 2010 Time: 3.18 hours
Distance: 20.49K (12.73mi)
5K/10K Predictor Avg: 51:23/1:48:37
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Oops, I won't do that again.
First, I stayed up late last night cleaning up my mp3 player. I didn't work on the playlist, but I got songs organized much better. I'm quite pleased. Well, until this morning when I just lounged and lounged in bed. I knew it was going to be hot and that time would be of the essence, but surely it wasn't that hot, already, right?
I checked the temp before I left and it said it already felt like 87. 85 is the top of my comfort zone, although I think I ran last summer at 90 and it was ok. Key difference: I had been running in the heat for some time last summer. This is like a week into my running this year. I did not wish to sit around all day hoping it would be cooler at night. I also did not know how far I should go ahead on my C25K plan. The next two runs are 20 minutes. Then they throw in a 12-5-12 before upping it to 24. I decided to compromise and aim for 22. I just am not a fan of the run-walk-run business.
Oh, did I mention I woke up with a headache? I took a couple tylenol before setting out. I did my obligatory 5 minute walk (.46K/.29mi), but I very quickly knew the 22 minutes was not going to happen. No amount of will power was going to change the fact that I was about to pass out in the heat. This was the first day that most of my run was fully in the sun, also, and it was simply intolerable.
I decided to go for the 12 minute run, then do the 5 minute walk and 12 minute run. I got through the 12 minutes at the school (1.48K/.92mi), then spent nearly the entire 5 minute walk (.41K/.25mi) trying to reset the alarms on my phone. I was toast, and I knew it. But I gave it ye old community college try, and repeated my 1 block/1 minute run from a few days ago (.13K/.08mi). I felt like I had more in me at the end, but I knew there wasn't much left and that I was so hot it was probably dangerous and stupid to try. So, with total deadweight legs, and no strength whatsoever, I barely made my way home. It took 7 mins to cover the .58K/.36mi.
So, that was a bit of a disappointing day. My first fail of the new runs. My first step back. My first reminder of why I get up before dawn to run during the summer. I may run tomorrow to make up for it. I'm off work again Monday, although I have activities planned. Not sure what I'll do next time to come back from this, but I suppose my goal will again be the 22. I very badly want to be at 30 minutes two weeks after coming back, I just fear that is an unreasonable goal. I really need to start back up with the yoga now, as well, and do the leg strengthening clearly. BUT, my pace over the 12 minutes/.92 mile was down again - 13.04 today! I must say, for some reason I thought I was running even slower, and as I look at breaking into the 12s, I think that 10 minute mile I put on my goal list last year is attainable after all.
When I got home, I made chocolate chip waffles, with peanut butter (a tip my niece shared last week), and added banana slices. I am the new improved fat elvis. I can't believe the lack of aches and pains so far this year, but I am quite pleased, duh.
Weather: 84, Sunny, 8mph wind, 64% humidity, Feels like 90 (this was at the end of the run)
Time: 10AM; Walk 5, Run 12, Walk 5, Run 1, Walk 7
Distance: 3.06K/1.9mi
Elevation: +43/-43.6/net -.6 ft
Just run: 13:00
Distance: 1.61K/1mi
5K/10K: 44:14/1:33:30
I checked the temp before I left and it said it already felt like 87. 85 is the top of my comfort zone, although I think I ran last summer at 90 and it was ok. Key difference: I had been running in the heat for some time last summer. This is like a week into my running this year. I did not wish to sit around all day hoping it would be cooler at night. I also did not know how far I should go ahead on my C25K plan. The next two runs are 20 minutes. Then they throw in a 12-5-12 before upping it to 24. I decided to compromise and aim for 22. I just am not a fan of the run-walk-run business.
Oh, did I mention I woke up with a headache? I took a couple tylenol before setting out. I did my obligatory 5 minute walk (.46K/.29mi), but I very quickly knew the 22 minutes was not going to happen. No amount of will power was going to change the fact that I was about to pass out in the heat. This was the first day that most of my run was fully in the sun, also, and it was simply intolerable.
I decided to go for the 12 minute run, then do the 5 minute walk and 12 minute run. I got through the 12 minutes at the school (1.48K/.92mi), then spent nearly the entire 5 minute walk (.41K/.25mi) trying to reset the alarms on my phone. I was toast, and I knew it. But I gave it ye old community college try, and repeated my 1 block/1 minute run from a few days ago (.13K/.08mi). I felt like I had more in me at the end, but I knew there wasn't much left and that I was so hot it was probably dangerous and stupid to try. So, with total deadweight legs, and no strength whatsoever, I barely made my way home. It took 7 mins to cover the .58K/.36mi.
So, that was a bit of a disappointing day. My first fail of the new runs. My first step back. My first reminder of why I get up before dawn to run during the summer. I may run tomorrow to make up for it. I'm off work again Monday, although I have activities planned. Not sure what I'll do next time to come back from this, but I suppose my goal will again be the 22. I very badly want to be at 30 minutes two weeks after coming back, I just fear that is an unreasonable goal. I really need to start back up with the yoga now, as well, and do the leg strengthening clearly. BUT, my pace over the 12 minutes/.92 mile was down again - 13.04 today! I must say, for some reason I thought I was running even slower, and as I look at breaking into the 12s, I think that 10 minute mile I put on my goal list last year is attainable after all.
When I got home, I made chocolate chip waffles, with peanut butter (a tip my niece shared last week), and added banana slices. I am the new improved fat elvis. I can't believe the lack of aches and pains so far this year, but I am quite pleased, duh.
Weather: 84, Sunny, 8mph wind, 64% humidity, Feels like 90 (this was at the end of the run)
Time: 10AM; Walk 5, Run 12, Walk 5, Run 1, Walk 7
Distance: 3.06K/1.9mi
Elevation: +43/-43.6/net -.6 ft
Just run: 13:00
Distance: 1.61K/1mi
5K/10K: 44:14/1:33:30
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Running Through Liquid Air & Cicadas
This morning I was listening to one of the local radio shows, as I do, and the girl host told the guy she had a surprise. Apparently the guy is a distance runner, but she just signed up for her first half, in October. Excitement all around. She said she hasn't been running for about 6 weeks, but she guesses she'll have to get back into it. He did a classic absurd scoff of , "Well, yes." He went on to tell her she would have no problems, but the thing with a fall half is summer training in MO. Amen. I have seen a lot more runners out this year - I guess that's good. I always have liked being trendy...
Again, I had woken up in time for a morning run and again the weather did not look safe. So I had a chance for another inspirational conversation with my coworker. We both have wee little strides. She said she was working on lengthening her stride, and after she works on it, she can really tell that she has worked her muscles differently.
It was hot tonight, so I dressed in appropriate shorts, but ones with no pockets. I generally carry my pepper spray in my pocket, so if it was a day when I felt like I needed to run with it, I always wore something with pockets. Tonight I felt uneasy, but had to wear the shorter shorts. Screw it, hillbillies, that IS mace in my hand and hells no I am not happy to see you.
I finally started to set up a playlist on my mp3 player, and I had it cranked. Oh, not because it was so awesome, but so that I could HEAR it over the frakking cicadas. I am literally losing my mind. I loathe them. If you see a video of a red faced panting girl macing giant flying bugs, that would be me. It's only a matter of time.
After my 5 minute walk (.46K/.29mi), I set off on the normal route, not venturing off into the side neighborhood. I was very tired from my ridiculous short-lived effort to lengthen my stride. The thing is, when I mess with my form, I feel like, and presumably I am, going a lot faster. Clearly that is the goal, but it freaks me out because I worry about regulating my breath which has generally been the worst part about running for me. Although I must say, so far on this round, it has been lack of leg muscles. Anyway, I was also blazing hot, and faint and thirsty.
As I approached the school, there was a garbage truck parked at the intersection I cross. At 7:30 at night, with dudes in it. Uhh. Yes, again, that is mace in my hand, but to save it for future needs, I crossed the street. There was another creepy garbage truck parked in front of the school, sans dudes. I don't even want to know. I'm too busy seeing the world from a whole different angle. This side of the street has more dogs, and less sidewalk. We like to grow grass over the sidewalk here in the south, ya see. I kept thinking about crossing back, but there were a TON of kids out on the other side. Odd, I don't remember ever seeing so many kids over there. And even though I would have to cross eventually to get home, I was too tired to deal with it. So I kept panting along - oh my playlist caused me to set my mp3 to just play files in order, not random, and it wasn't finished, or very long, so I got stuck flipping through the WORST music on the mp3 trying to find something. I wished for the extra energy to be able to switch it to random, but I just didn't have it in me. I finished my run up close to where I started it (2.21K/1.37mi), and it never even crossed my mind to try and do another bit of run. I just walked the 5 minutes home (.42K/.26mi).
So that was Day 52 of the C25K. In a week I've gone from Day 33, a 10 minute run, to Day 52, an 18 minute run. I'm feeling good. And my pace is down to 13.14 from 14.08.
Weather: Ok, I use Google for the weather. Just type in "weather" and my zip code. Then I click on the weather channel to get the heat index/wind chill. That being said, tonight's weather report is BS. I raise the flag, and I fly it mightily. It was less windy and felt much, much, much hotter. 78, Sunny, 10 mph wind, 79% Humidity, Feels Like 78. BS.
Time: 7PM; Walk 5, Run 18, Walk 5
Distance: 3.09K/1.92mi
Elevation: +44.6/-39.3/net 5.2 ft - this is also calculated by google. I know the math is frequently off. I don't care enough to fix it.
Just run: 18:00
Distance: 2.21K/1.37mi
5K/10K: 43:36/1:32:09
Again, I had woken up in time for a morning run and again the weather did not look safe. So I had a chance for another inspirational conversation with my coworker. We both have wee little strides. She said she was working on lengthening her stride, and after she works on it, she can really tell that she has worked her muscles differently.
It was hot tonight, so I dressed in appropriate shorts, but ones with no pockets. I generally carry my pepper spray in my pocket, so if it was a day when I felt like I needed to run with it, I always wore something with pockets. Tonight I felt uneasy, but had to wear the shorter shorts. Screw it, hillbillies, that IS mace in my hand and hells no I am not happy to see you.
I finally started to set up a playlist on my mp3 player, and I had it cranked. Oh, not because it was so awesome, but so that I could HEAR it over the frakking cicadas. I am literally losing my mind. I loathe them. If you see a video of a red faced panting girl macing giant flying bugs, that would be me. It's only a matter of time.
After my 5 minute walk (.46K/.29mi), I set off on the normal route, not venturing off into the side neighborhood. I was very tired from my ridiculous short-lived effort to lengthen my stride. The thing is, when I mess with my form, I feel like, and presumably I am, going a lot faster. Clearly that is the goal, but it freaks me out because I worry about regulating my breath which has generally been the worst part about running for me. Although I must say, so far on this round, it has been lack of leg muscles. Anyway, I was also blazing hot, and faint and thirsty.
As I approached the school, there was a garbage truck parked at the intersection I cross. At 7:30 at night, with dudes in it. Uhh. Yes, again, that is mace in my hand, but to save it for future needs, I crossed the street. There was another creepy garbage truck parked in front of the school, sans dudes. I don't even want to know. I'm too busy seeing the world from a whole different angle. This side of the street has more dogs, and less sidewalk. We like to grow grass over the sidewalk here in the south, ya see. I kept thinking about crossing back, but there were a TON of kids out on the other side. Odd, I don't remember ever seeing so many kids over there. And even though I would have to cross eventually to get home, I was too tired to deal with it. So I kept panting along - oh my playlist caused me to set my mp3 to just play files in order, not random, and it wasn't finished, or very long, so I got stuck flipping through the WORST music on the mp3 trying to find something. I wished for the extra energy to be able to switch it to random, but I just didn't have it in me. I finished my run up close to where I started it (2.21K/1.37mi), and it never even crossed my mind to try and do another bit of run. I just walked the 5 minutes home (.42K/.26mi).
So that was Day 52 of the C25K. In a week I've gone from Day 33, a 10 minute run, to Day 52, an 18 minute run. I'm feeling good. And my pace is down to 13.14 from 14.08.
Weather: Ok, I use Google for the weather. Just type in "weather" and my zip code. Then I click on the weather channel to get the heat index/wind chill. That being said, tonight's weather report is BS. I raise the flag, and I fly it mightily. It was less windy and felt much, much, much hotter. 78, Sunny, 10 mph wind, 79% Humidity, Feels Like 78. BS.
Time: 7PM; Walk 5, Run 18, Walk 5
Distance: 3.09K/1.92mi
Elevation: +44.6/-39.3/net 5.2 ft - this is also calculated by google. I know the math is frequently off. I don't care enough to fix it.
Just run: 18:00
Distance: 2.21K/1.37mi
5K/10K: 43:36/1:32:09
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Already time to change it up!
Well, my plan is to run every other day, unless I get to a point where I feel strong enough to run multiple days in a row. But...I didn't run yesterday. I was pretty exhausted from Saturday for the rest of the weekend, and I thought I just may want to hold on and save this run for after work. There have been many days at work where all I have wanted is to go for a run. I didn't want to miss an opportunity. Well, and I actually thought about running before work today, but the weather looked shady and despite the news saying it wasn't severe, I sat tight and turns out, it went severe. Way to go, boys.
At work, the discussion revolved around hot runs (I didn't think it would be that bad after work, but what do I know) and how my coworker who only this year started running managed a 10 minute pace recently. Although it almost killed her, that was definitely on my mind when I ran tonight. I was going from Day 38 to Day 47 on my abbreviated/accelerated C25K, 16 minutes running tonight.
Due to the alleged heat, I pinned all my hair up. All of it. I certainly have never run with so many bobbies in my hair and it was great. I may start wearing it that way on a daily basis.
I started off with my 5 minute walk warmup (.51K/.32 mi) then took the regular route, including the two blocks further, but then switched it up. I turned into this little neighborhood instead of just turning around and running right back where I had been. It's pretty quiet and a bit nicer than the rest of my route, and yay, there were sidewalks all the way down and back - although I came back a block closer to home and that block had to be run in the street. But it was downhill, so it went relatively quickly. Anyway, once I got back on my regular path, I was pure exhaustion. This whole run was all about just trying to finish. As I got close to the school, and my presumed finish, this little dog was out in a yard - it looked unsupervised, untethered, and old. And I prayed to be mauled so I could just stop. Alas, I think he tailed me a minute - I had neither the strength to look nor to tell him to stay, but I finally shook him and finished my 16 minutes at the school. (1.95K/1.21mi - hey I'm back over a mile in one burst!)
I walked 5 minutes (.44K/.27mi) and tried to run my lagniappe 5 minutes. I was so tired (the front of my thighs are absolutely killing me on each run - there is just no muscle there yet), thirsty, there were so many frakking people out, and yes, I was hot, that I called it quits after 1 minute (.13K/.08mi). Egads. So the walk home took me 6 minutes (.54K/.34mi). As I walked up the alley to my house, I had to step over a dead bird, which displeased me immensely. As I walked up the steps to my door a dang cicada beamed me in the forehead. As I would later say, like a gross, off-center high five at the finish line.
I had a slight headache, but ate some pizza (gourds, I'm unhealthy) within an hour and did not get a bad one.
One other note, Husband bought me the book "Once A Runner" for Christmas. I've started it like 5 times, but even though it seems to be about a runner who is at the end of his running career, it has been impossible for me to get into when I couldn't run. I am burning through it now. It's hilarious, and even though there is no comparison to what I do with what the characters do, there are certain things apparently all runners do that I really get a kick out of in the book. I had debated not keeping up this blog or my spreadsheet of miles and times until the book mentioned the training logs that the boys keep. Anyway, it's a really great book, and it is inspiring me even if my goal is not a 4 minute mile!
Pushing it seemed to help, if not nearly kill me - I ran a total of one minute less than last run, but went a whopping .05 mile further. My pace over 16 minutes and 1.21 miles was 13.22, also on the decline!
Weather: 79, Sunny, 2 mph wind, 42% Humidity, Feels Like 80
Time: 7pm; Walk 5, Run 16, Walk 5, Run 1, Walk 6
Distance: 3.57K/2.22mi
Elevation: +53.8/-52.7/net 1.2 ft
Just run: 17:00
Distance: 2.08K/1.29mi
5K/10K: 43:56/1:32:52
At work, the discussion revolved around hot runs (I didn't think it would be that bad after work, but what do I know) and how my coworker who only this year started running managed a 10 minute pace recently. Although it almost killed her, that was definitely on my mind when I ran tonight. I was going from Day 38 to Day 47 on my abbreviated/accelerated C25K, 16 minutes running tonight.
Due to the alleged heat, I pinned all my hair up. All of it. I certainly have never run with so many bobbies in my hair and it was great. I may start wearing it that way on a daily basis.
I started off with my 5 minute walk warmup (.51K/.32 mi) then took the regular route, including the two blocks further, but then switched it up. I turned into this little neighborhood instead of just turning around and running right back where I had been. It's pretty quiet and a bit nicer than the rest of my route, and yay, there were sidewalks all the way down and back - although I came back a block closer to home and that block had to be run in the street. But it was downhill, so it went relatively quickly. Anyway, once I got back on my regular path, I was pure exhaustion. This whole run was all about just trying to finish. As I got close to the school, and my presumed finish, this little dog was out in a yard - it looked unsupervised, untethered, and old. And I prayed to be mauled so I could just stop. Alas, I think he tailed me a minute - I had neither the strength to look nor to tell him to stay, but I finally shook him and finished my 16 minutes at the school. (1.95K/1.21mi - hey I'm back over a mile in one burst!)
I walked 5 minutes (.44K/.27mi) and tried to run my lagniappe 5 minutes. I was so tired (the front of my thighs are absolutely killing me on each run - there is just no muscle there yet), thirsty, there were so many frakking people out, and yes, I was hot, that I called it quits after 1 minute (.13K/.08mi). Egads. So the walk home took me 6 minutes (.54K/.34mi). As I walked up the alley to my house, I had to step over a dead bird, which displeased me immensely. As I walked up the steps to my door a dang cicada beamed me in the forehead. As I would later say, like a gross, off-center high five at the finish line.
I had a slight headache, but ate some pizza (gourds, I'm unhealthy) within an hour and did not get a bad one.
One other note, Husband bought me the book "Once A Runner" for Christmas. I've started it like 5 times, but even though it seems to be about a runner who is at the end of his running career, it has been impossible for me to get into when I couldn't run. I am burning through it now. It's hilarious, and even though there is no comparison to what I do with what the characters do, there are certain things apparently all runners do that I really get a kick out of in the book. I had debated not keeping up this blog or my spreadsheet of miles and times until the book mentioned the training logs that the boys keep. Anyway, it's a really great book, and it is inspiring me even if my goal is not a 4 minute mile!
Pushing it seemed to help, if not nearly kill me - I ran a total of one minute less than last run, but went a whopping .05 mile further. My pace over 16 minutes and 1.21 miles was 13.22, also on the decline!
Weather: 79, Sunny, 2 mph wind, 42% Humidity, Feels Like 80
Time: 7pm; Walk 5, Run 16, Walk 5, Run 1, Walk 6
Distance: 3.57K/2.22mi
Elevation: +53.8/-52.7/net 1.2 ft
Just run: 17:00
Distance: 2.08K/1.29mi
5K/10K: 43:56/1:32:52
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Let's "Runaway"
I could hardly wait to run again today.
I was super-super sore yesterday, especially in the thigh area. I was for sure old man hobbling. Even today, I was still quite sore. I definitely needed the 5 minute warm up walk to get the legs in gear (.53K/.33mi).
I didn't eat before I set out, and the first run was very hard. I had skipped from Day 33 to Day 38 in the C25K, so I was going from a 10 minute run to a 13 minute run. I did run the 2 blocks further, so I still finished my run near the school, but I had to get up the hill there a bit first because the alarm didn't go off until I was halfway up the block (1.49K/.93mi).
I finished out the workout with a 5 minute walk (.35K/.21mi), 5 minute lagniappe run (.49K/.31m), and 5 minute walk home (.28K/.17mi).
My motivation today was self-abuse. A lot of, You used to be able to run four times this far, and You expect to be able to run two plus hours at a time?
Afterwards, I ate some chocolate chip waffles and had a Dew. I did not get a headache, but I was oh so sore. And I still had a Bruno Mars concert to get to that night. <3 Great, busy day!
Weather: 59, Partly Cloudy, 5 mph wind, 90% Humidity, Feels Like 63
Time: 8:30AM; Walk 5, Run 13, Walk 5, Run 5, Walk 5
Distance: 3.14K/1.95mi
Elevation: +41.9/-37.8/net 4.1 ft
Just Run: 18:00
Distance: 1.98K/1.24mi
5K/10K: 48:33/1:42:37
Pace on 13 minute run over .93mi: 13.98.
I was super-super sore yesterday, especially in the thigh area. I was for sure old man hobbling. Even today, I was still quite sore. I definitely needed the 5 minute warm up walk to get the legs in gear (.53K/.33mi).
I didn't eat before I set out, and the first run was very hard. I had skipped from Day 33 to Day 38 in the C25K, so I was going from a 10 minute run to a 13 minute run. I did run the 2 blocks further, so I still finished my run near the school, but I had to get up the hill there a bit first because the alarm didn't go off until I was halfway up the block (1.49K/.93mi).
I finished out the workout with a 5 minute walk (.35K/.21mi), 5 minute lagniappe run (.49K/.31m), and 5 minute walk home (.28K/.17mi).
My motivation today was self-abuse. A lot of, You used to be able to run four times this far, and You expect to be able to run two plus hours at a time?
Afterwards, I ate some chocolate chip waffles and had a Dew. I did not get a headache, but I was oh so sore. And I still had a Bruno Mars concert to get to that night. <3 Great, busy day!
Weather: 59, Partly Cloudy, 5 mph wind, 90% Humidity, Feels Like 63
Time: 8:30AM; Walk 5, Run 13, Walk 5, Run 5, Walk 5
Distance: 3.14K/1.95mi
Elevation: +41.9/-37.8/net 4.1 ft
Just Run: 18:00
Distance: 1.98K/1.24mi
5K/10K: 48:33/1:42:37
Pace on 13 minute run over .93mi: 13.98.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Me: "I'm back after 6 months!"
Thirteen Year Cicada: "Impressive."
I finally had my neurologist appointment today, and he confirmed that my headaches from running are not being caused by anything dangerous in my brain. He also prescribed Imitrex so if the mighty migraines return I will still be able to function as a human being.
I could hardly get through my afternoon.
Of course, due to the stress of having to sit in a neurologist's office for a couple of hours, I did have a headache all day, although it wasn't too terrible when I set out around 6:30 (promptly after getting home, changed, and stretched - I did not even take the time to obsessive-compulsively check the weather before leaving).
All through this waiting period I knew coming back I would just take off running and see how far I could go, then start over with the couch to 5K day closest to that time. I did not have high hopes for this run at all. My last attempt was horrid, although it was cold and windy, but I haven't been working out at all since then.
I wanted to start with the 5 minute walk like was included for most of the C25K. I just didn't feel like the stretching was enough, plus the walking would put me over my initial "hill" that I have to run up. As I walked, I cursed the fact that I finally came back to run and now the 13-year cicadas are out everywhere. I'll undoubtedly be taking one of those clearly blind beasts to my gaping open gasping for air mouth at some point in the near future.
So I walked 5 minutes - .51K - .31 mile. Then I was off. I was at the top of a hill, but these are rolling hills, so I really forced myself to hold back running down it. Going up the other side was hard, really, really hard. I had actually forgotten how hard it used to be, back at the beginning. Not that it was ever super easy - my last full run was the worst. But this was like impossibly hard. I had definitely gotten to a point where these little rolling hills weren't even noticeable as I careened up and down them. This is my motivation for my return to running - to get past the painful part. Remember, you have to do this part to get to the part where it doesn't hurt so bad.
My headache definitely came back while I was running. This was one of the teeth aching bad headaches. But, I didn't care. I was entirely too excited to be running. My mp3 was on random as usual and picking good songs, and I was ecstatic, especially after each awful hill I made it over.
After I made it up the hill by the orphanage, I was pretty wiped out, though - I knew my time was limited. So I didn't bother with the turn further away from home where I pick up the extra couple of blocks to get my 5K distance. I did make it back to the school, before another small uphill. I had run 10 minutes - 1.13K - .71 mi, far more than I had expected to when I was asking people to place bets on how far I would go.
I stared walking and decided to try for a 5 minute walk, followed by another 10 minute run, followed by a 5 minute walk. Part of the avoidance of headaches from running includes a sufficient cool down, so that end walk is now imperative. My right thigh was cramped up pretty nicely at this point, but I walked the 5 minutes - .41K - .25 mi.
I jumped like a maniac several times during the course of my running and walking. I have to re-learn where all the barking dogs are along my route, and get used to bugs landing on me, etc, etc.
When I took off running again, I headed straight ahead to the busy street that I've run on so many times. Once I turned on the busy street, I was in the sun and suddenly got very hot. I clearly had overdressed with a long sleeved tee over a workout top. I only made it 5 minutes - .64K - .4 mi, but I was happy with my little extra. 15 minutes total on my first run back? That was exceptional.
It took me 5 mins - .36K - .23 mi to get home. I immediately had a piece of chocolate angel food cake (eating quickly to avoid headaches), followed with water and half a frozen pizza. When I got home, the back of my right knee, slightly to the outside, was tight and sore. Amazingly, besides my head, this was really my only complaint. It was noticeable, however, because I don't recall ever having pain there before. Yippe! By the time I had finished my food, the knee and headache were better, but my feet and muscles were very sore. (Of course, normal runners get headaches in the heat, but I got mine worse when it got cold, and I was running significantly farther.)
What better time to look up a half marathon training plan?! I went to CoolRunning.com to check out their advice, and after choosing the Beginner plan (which I am, but do not currently see me able to do a half in 2 hours), saw that they recommend being able to run about 20 miles a week without discomfort, for 4-5 weeks, before starting the training. Noted. Now how am I going to get there?!
I pulled out my C25K. Day 33 was a walk 5, Run 10 Walk 5. Even though I ran an additional 5, I thought this was the most relevant starting point. Day 33 of 70. Dang. At least I didn't have to start all the way over.
Feeling cocky, I decided to set my goals based on something of an every other day schedule of the C25K. For example, the next two run days on the schedule were Run 11s. The NEXT run, was run 13 minutes. That would be my next goal, for Saturday. Following this schedule, I should be back at 30 minute runs in 2 weeks. Not too shabby.
My total distance today was 3.05K/1.9 miles. I ran in total 1.11 miles. It's funny how that can seem like such a long distance, and such a short distance all at once.
I currently only have two other girls in my office and they are both runners. They are obsessed with pace, so I guess I'll start keep track of my embarrassingly slow pace. Based on the longer part of my run, 10 minutes over .71 mile, I have an aged three legged turtle's pace of 14.08.
Weather: 63, Sunny, 11 mph wind, 63% humidity, Feels like 63
Time: 6:30pm; Walk 5, Run 10, Walk 5, Run 5, Walk 5
Distance: 3.05K (1.90mi)
5K/10K: Not going to track for run/walks anymore
Elevation: +38.5/-36.3/net 2.1 ft
Just run: 15:00
Distance: 1.77K (1.11mi)
5K/10K: 45:36/1:36:23
I finally had my neurologist appointment today, and he confirmed that my headaches from running are not being caused by anything dangerous in my brain. He also prescribed Imitrex so if the mighty migraines return I will still be able to function as a human being.
I could hardly get through my afternoon.
Of course, due to the stress of having to sit in a neurologist's office for a couple of hours, I did have a headache all day, although it wasn't too terrible when I set out around 6:30 (promptly after getting home, changed, and stretched - I did not even take the time to obsessive-compulsively check the weather before leaving).
All through this waiting period I knew coming back I would just take off running and see how far I could go, then start over with the couch to 5K day closest to that time. I did not have high hopes for this run at all. My last attempt was horrid, although it was cold and windy, but I haven't been working out at all since then.
I wanted to start with the 5 minute walk like was included for most of the C25K. I just didn't feel like the stretching was enough, plus the walking would put me over my initial "hill" that I have to run up. As I walked, I cursed the fact that I finally came back to run and now the 13-year cicadas are out everywhere. I'll undoubtedly be taking one of those clearly blind beasts to my gaping open gasping for air mouth at some point in the near future.
So I walked 5 minutes - .51K - .31 mile. Then I was off. I was at the top of a hill, but these are rolling hills, so I really forced myself to hold back running down it. Going up the other side was hard, really, really hard. I had actually forgotten how hard it used to be, back at the beginning. Not that it was ever super easy - my last full run was the worst. But this was like impossibly hard. I had definitely gotten to a point where these little rolling hills weren't even noticeable as I careened up and down them. This is my motivation for my return to running - to get past the painful part. Remember, you have to do this part to get to the part where it doesn't hurt so bad.
My headache definitely came back while I was running. This was one of the teeth aching bad headaches. But, I didn't care. I was entirely too excited to be running. My mp3 was on random as usual and picking good songs, and I was ecstatic, especially after each awful hill I made it over.
After I made it up the hill by the orphanage, I was pretty wiped out, though - I knew my time was limited. So I didn't bother with the turn further away from home where I pick up the extra couple of blocks to get my 5K distance. I did make it back to the school, before another small uphill. I had run 10 minutes - 1.13K - .71 mi, far more than I had expected to when I was asking people to place bets on how far I would go.
I stared walking and decided to try for a 5 minute walk, followed by another 10 minute run, followed by a 5 minute walk. Part of the avoidance of headaches from running includes a sufficient cool down, so that end walk is now imperative. My right thigh was cramped up pretty nicely at this point, but I walked the 5 minutes - .41K - .25 mi.
I jumped like a maniac several times during the course of my running and walking. I have to re-learn where all the barking dogs are along my route, and get used to bugs landing on me, etc, etc.
When I took off running again, I headed straight ahead to the busy street that I've run on so many times. Once I turned on the busy street, I was in the sun and suddenly got very hot. I clearly had overdressed with a long sleeved tee over a workout top. I only made it 5 minutes - .64K - .4 mi, but I was happy with my little extra. 15 minutes total on my first run back? That was exceptional.
It took me 5 mins - .36K - .23 mi to get home. I immediately had a piece of chocolate angel food cake (eating quickly to avoid headaches), followed with water and half a frozen pizza. When I got home, the back of my right knee, slightly to the outside, was tight and sore. Amazingly, besides my head, this was really my only complaint. It was noticeable, however, because I don't recall ever having pain there before. Yippe! By the time I had finished my food, the knee and headache were better, but my feet and muscles were very sore. (Of course, normal runners get headaches in the heat, but I got mine worse when it got cold, and I was running significantly farther.)
What better time to look up a half marathon training plan?! I went to CoolRunning.com to check out their advice, and after choosing the Beginner plan (which I am, but do not currently see me able to do a half in 2 hours), saw that they recommend being able to run about 20 miles a week without discomfort, for 4-5 weeks, before starting the training. Noted. Now how am I going to get there?!
I pulled out my C25K. Day 33 was a walk 5, Run 10 Walk 5. Even though I ran an additional 5, I thought this was the most relevant starting point. Day 33 of 70. Dang. At least I didn't have to start all the way over.
Feeling cocky, I decided to set my goals based on something of an every other day schedule of the C25K. For example, the next two run days on the schedule were Run 11s. The NEXT run, was run 13 minutes. That would be my next goal, for Saturday. Following this schedule, I should be back at 30 minute runs in 2 weeks. Not too shabby.
My total distance today was 3.05K/1.9 miles. I ran in total 1.11 miles. It's funny how that can seem like such a long distance, and such a short distance all at once.
I currently only have two other girls in my office and they are both runners. They are obsessed with pace, so I guess I'll start keep track of my embarrassingly slow pace. Based on the longer part of my run, 10 minutes over .71 mile, I have an aged three legged turtle's pace of 14.08.
Weather: 63, Sunny, 11 mph wind, 63% humidity, Feels like 63
Time: 6:30pm; Walk 5, Run 10, Walk 5, Run 5, Walk 5
Distance: 3.05K (1.90mi)
5K/10K: Not going to track for run/walks anymore
Elevation: +38.5/-36.3/net 2.1 ft
Just run: 15:00
Distance: 1.77K (1.11mi)
5K/10K: 45:36/1:36:23
Monday, March 28, 2011
No Run Today
Maybe after I see the neurologist.
Today was not the best day I've ever had and now I can't help but expect worse to come.
Wish I could run to deal with the stress.
Today was not the best day I've ever had and now I can't help but expect worse to come.
Wish I could run to deal with the stress.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Ack.
Well, a month or so ago, I went for a run one Saturday morning. It was kind of a test to see if I was still getting headaches. BOTH of the women I work with now are runners. I obsessively miss it. So, I took a chance, and took off into the wind. I made it 2 minutes. I walked two minutes, then managed to run two more. That was it. Now I know what taking an extended break from running accomplishes - a total and complete setback. I walked home, which took me 14 minutes and served as the cool down I was hoping would ward off the migraine. As soon as I got in, I made a pile of waffles, also hoping that eating would ward off the headache. Within minutes, the daylong migraine set in so bad my teeth hurt. Bah. For the record, it was 46, cloudy, 16 mph wind, 47% humidity, felt like 40.
Since then I've missed running more and more. It's gotten warmer. The days are long enough that I can run when I get home. It's unbearable to not be able to.
I've also been having stomach issues, and more headaches. Last year, be it the lack of stress, the lack of computers, or the increase in working out, I rarely had headaches. They're bad this year.
I finally gave in and looked into seeing a doctor. I had been waiting until we got in a better position financially, but the headaches are affecting my work, so I decided to go ahead and make an appointment last week. My doctor isn't too worried, but ordered an MRI to rule out all the big stuff. Because of my work schedule last week, I pushed the MRI off until Friday.
Wednesday night the stress started kicking in. I barely survived the MRI itself, and I'm not yet sure I'm going to survive the wait. I never really thought anything was wrong - it's very common for runners to get headaches.
Hopefully I'll know something tomorrow.
I have my mp3 player charged and my running clothes laid out. It may be sleeting tomorrow, but I think I'll go for a celebratory 5K when I hear everything's okay.
At least that's what I keep telling myself.
Since then I've missed running more and more. It's gotten warmer. The days are long enough that I can run when I get home. It's unbearable to not be able to.
I've also been having stomach issues, and more headaches. Last year, be it the lack of stress, the lack of computers, or the increase in working out, I rarely had headaches. They're bad this year.
I finally gave in and looked into seeing a doctor. I had been waiting until we got in a better position financially, but the headaches are affecting my work, so I decided to go ahead and make an appointment last week. My doctor isn't too worried, but ordered an MRI to rule out all the big stuff. Because of my work schedule last week, I pushed the MRI off until Friday.
Wednesday night the stress started kicking in. I barely survived the MRI itself, and I'm not yet sure I'm going to survive the wait. I never really thought anything was wrong - it's very common for runners to get headaches.
Hopefully I'll know something tomorrow.
I have my mp3 player charged and my running clothes laid out. It may be sleeting tomorrow, but I think I'll go for a celebratory 5K when I hear everything's okay.
At least that's what I keep telling myself.
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