In the month of October I ran at least 10 to 15 miles per week. I only ran up to a 5k distance.
Yesterday I ran my first 15k trial hill country race. The race was 1.5 hours away from my cousins' house. We left at 6 am to get there about an hour or so before the race started. After getting my race bib I went to brave to potter potties to find that I could not get to them before 8.
I didn't go to the bathroom and went to wait 15 minutes past 8 to start the race. The first 5k portion of the race my toes were numb. I did not feel them at all and the first mile I clocked in right over 9 minutes.
The temperature started out about 39 degrees and ended at about 44 degrees. No wind and no clouds. Sunny skies made it feel a bit warmer.
Through out the course I kept staying with a pack, which I hate being in. I had to stay with them since it was my pace I wanted and then I let them pull out ahead of me. I wanted to be alone.
During the course we pass horse pastures. A donkey and horses were being chased by this long hair huge goat. We went through a chicken farm and all through this beautiful antique looking community. The colors of the leaves and the leaves all over the trail made it fall feeling and great.
My goal for this race was between 1:30:00 to 2:00:00. The best I could do if I had time to train (I didn't) is 90 minutes and the longest I would take even if I got hurt would be 120 minutes.
I finished the race at 1:53:59 and today I can barely walk. My pace was faster on the 15k trail race than the 13.1 road race.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Saturday, October 30, 2010
I Live for Cold Running
From October 18th until today the 30th of October I have logged in 5 miles. I have been really busy, but the colder it gets the better I feel in my runs.
I plan on a 15k trail race on the 13th of November. I am running it with my cousin and his wife and daughter are doing the 5k portion of the race.
Can not wait!
I plan on a 15k trail race on the 13th of November. I am running it with my cousin and his wife and daughter are doing the 5k portion of the race.
Can not wait!
Monday, October 18, 2010
Running like a Dog
This morning I was debating skipping another day of running. I almost did, but decided it would make me feel better. As I was preparing to go run I was going to do my 2 mile course and that was it. Than I remembered that my mp3 player was in my jeep. This lead me to go to my 3 mile course instead.
As I ran I felt amazing in the crisp warming fall morning. Within my first mile, where I use to warm up, two dogs started chasing me. They didn't frighten me since they barely came up to my ankles. I started to sprint and they stayed right with me and I pushed myself. I started to laugh and had sheer pleasure at the feeling I was feeling. That feeling was strong.
I kept my pace at a minute faster than usual, at least. I started the course about 100 meters further back than normally. I finished it in 26 minutes! The dogs taught me I could pick up my pace and sprint at different times and it feels great to play.
Getting home I hopped on my bike since my front tire was re-blown up, which is good since it went flat a couple a days before. I road through the woods, dirt roads, and two neighborhoods near my home. 6 miles later I finished and did strength training for my upper body.
What a great day of Play!
As I ran I felt amazing in the crisp warming fall morning. Within my first mile, where I use to warm up, two dogs started chasing me. They didn't frighten me since they barely came up to my ankles. I started to sprint and they stayed right with me and I pushed myself. I started to laugh and had sheer pleasure at the feeling I was feeling. That feeling was strong.
I kept my pace at a minute faster than usual, at least. I started the course about 100 meters further back than normally. I finished it in 26 minutes! The dogs taught me I could pick up my pace and sprint at different times and it feels great to play.
Getting home I hopped on my bike since my front tire was re-blown up, which is good since it went flat a couple a days before. I road through the woods, dirt roads, and two neighborhoods near my home. 6 miles later I finished and did strength training for my upper body.
What a great day of Play!
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Ironman at Kona
During these past two weeks I have accomplished running 7.3 miles after the half marathon race I ran. I strength trained at least three times, plus pilates once and also biked 15.69 miles since I finally broke down and purchased a mountain bike.
Along with this activity being back in my life I got to view the beginning and the end of the Ironman at Kona. I had to work, but I got to see Mirinda Carfrae finish for her world championship placement.
I will never get why I cry when I watch anything about the Ironman, but I do. I believe it makes me excited and inspired. Going with this feeling I am re-vamping my goals. I am moving the marathon back to whenever I feel I am ready, which to be honest I can not put a date on.
Running a half marathon without stopping or in 2 hours I am hoping to accomplish before or in about an year.
I believe this is attainable no matter what my training allows, because the more comfortable I become with the distance and the race itself I seem to improve each time.
Still waiting for my home gym to be finished and hoping it is soon since the winter is going to roll in soon and the sun will not rise early enough for me. With the tredmill I am going to train myself to just run 2 hours straight.
Along with this activity being back in my life I got to view the beginning and the end of the Ironman at Kona. I had to work, but I got to see Mirinda Carfrae finish for her world championship placement.
I will never get why I cry when I watch anything about the Ironman, but I do. I believe it makes me excited and inspired. Going with this feeling I am re-vamping my goals. I am moving the marathon back to whenever I feel I am ready, which to be honest I can not put a date on.
Running a half marathon without stopping or in 2 hours I am hoping to accomplish before or in about an year.
I believe this is attainable no matter what my training allows, because the more comfortable I become with the distance and the race itself I seem to improve each time.
Still waiting for my home gym to be finished and hoping it is soon since the winter is going to roll in soon and the sun will not rise early enough for me. With the tredmill I am going to train myself to just run 2 hours straight.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Journey Re-Routed
Life has happened and my journey to a marathon within a year is being re-routed. Working two jobs, attending graduate school, and interning has made it hard for me to figure out time to train for even a 5k.
I have had time to run small amounts here and there when it has stayed cool enough for me to survive. For my birthday I decided to sign up for the 13.1 Atlanta on October 3rd and give myself a PR of 2 hours. This was all figured out before "life happened."
In the end I still decided to do it. For some odd reason I knew I was going to be alright. I was still a little concerned about my knees and hip, but I still felt comfortable about my decision to do it. Even with the week before when I hurt my back from trying to play basketball.
October 2nd, Saturday, I went to run at a local park to see how my body would do. I made it 3.9 miles feeling amazing. I went to bed that night at 9 and woke at 4:30 am feeling very rested and excited.
On October 3rd, Sunday, I forgot my bid number on the kitchen table so my dad had to turn the car around to get it. Ended up leaving the house at 6 am. Arrived 10 minutes before the race started. My mom and dad dropped me off and I got ready to get going.
As the sun was breaking through the sky I noticed my headband was not on me. I had to run the race without it.
By mile 6 I felt good and strong. Hitting the maker around an 1:07:00 and got to high five my dad. After this point I had to start run/ walking. It felt like a roller coaster from this point on. The day was beautiful and cool. I was having a great time.
Walking the hills and running the flats and down hills I finished the half in 2:41:24 hours. Overall I ranked 2494 out 2864, with the females 1327 out of 1612, and with my age group (20 to 24) 142 out of 154. Not what I expected when I signed up, but I am still very proud.
It is 17 minutes faster than my first half marathon and I am physically and mentally stronger feeling afterwards instead of feeling broken.
I have had time to run small amounts here and there when it has stayed cool enough for me to survive. For my birthday I decided to sign up for the 13.1 Atlanta on October 3rd and give myself a PR of 2 hours. This was all figured out before "life happened."
In the end I still decided to do it. For some odd reason I knew I was going to be alright. I was still a little concerned about my knees and hip, but I still felt comfortable about my decision to do it. Even with the week before when I hurt my back from trying to play basketball.
October 2nd, Saturday, I went to run at a local park to see how my body would do. I made it 3.9 miles feeling amazing. I went to bed that night at 9 and woke at 4:30 am feeling very rested and excited.
On October 3rd, Sunday, I forgot my bid number on the kitchen table so my dad had to turn the car around to get it. Ended up leaving the house at 6 am. Arrived 10 minutes before the race started. My mom and dad dropped me off and I got ready to get going.
As the sun was breaking through the sky I noticed my headband was not on me. I had to run the race without it.
By mile 6 I felt good and strong. Hitting the maker around an 1:07:00 and got to high five my dad. After this point I had to start run/ walking. It felt like a roller coaster from this point on. The day was beautiful and cool. I was having a great time.
Walking the hills and running the flats and down hills I finished the half in 2:41:24 hours. Overall I ranked 2494 out 2864, with the females 1327 out of 1612, and with my age group (20 to 24) 142 out of 154. Not what I expected when I signed up, but I am still very proud.
It is 17 minutes faster than my first half marathon and I am physically and mentally stronger feeling afterwards instead of feeling broken.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Pressed for Time
I am picking up my running routine up again. I have ran 12 miles and biked 4.5 miles this week. It feels great to start back up again. Can't wait for my schedule to become set again. Can't wait for the weather to cool off. Can't wait for the basement to be remolded and to have a home gym again.
My knees did hurt badly the first day back on Monday (I made it 3 miles since I had a break to chase a dog for a neighborhood resident.) On Wednesday they didn't brother me at all and I ran my average time.
Thursday I ended up dropping 5 dollars to use the basic gym and loved it since I had ran a 5k in a tempo pace, then biked 4.5 miles mountain trail setting, and another 5k with in a interval style.
I am impressed on how I picked up with running my average race time and ran my fastest times on the treadmill as if it were normal pace for me.
My knees did hurt badly the first day back on Monday (I made it 3 miles since I had a break to chase a dog for a neighborhood resident.) On Wednesday they didn't brother me at all and I ran my average time.
Thursday I ended up dropping 5 dollars to use the basic gym and loved it since I had ran a 5k in a tempo pace, then biked 4.5 miles mountain trail setting, and another 5k with in a interval style.
I am impressed on how I picked up with running my average race time and ran my fastest times on the treadmill as if it were normal pace for me.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Run for my Sanity
After being out of running for a week or two I became out of sorts, but as I believed was use to it. The Peachtree Roadrace taught me better. Through out the 6 miles I could feel my body ease into the rhythm and enjoy the release of built up energy. I could not help, but smile and have fun no matter what my time came out to be.
The day after the race I felt energized to run again already, but my ankles were tight and sore. Then today came around. I woke up at 6 to watch the sun rise as I prepared myself for a great run or I hoped for one.
Starting at 7:30 I set out for my first 5k and feared for my long run that I felt I needed not for training and not for fun, but for my own sanity. The temperature was at about 68 degrees and my first 5k came to 29 minutes, which is my average time for that distance.
I went to the restroom and had some Gatorade to cool myself down. I set out on the 2nd round of the neighborhood and felt strong and faster. My muscles have been loosened up and my breathing became easy. The weather was still in a good place for me. Sun shining and rising in the East where two of the larger hills faced it. Sprinklers were nourishing the grass and glistening in the sun and moistening the air. Birds chirping and flying plus the Kites chasing the Crows away from their territory. Becoming part of the calm morning my run felt great and ended up being in 27 minutes.
Since the summer officially became hot my runs usually ended at 6 miles. This morning I replenished myself with more Gatorade and then poured iced water over my head, neck and chest. I set off on my 3rd round at a faster pace than intended, but felt amazing through it all. I walked once at the very end only for 30 seconds. I finished the last 5k in 26 minutes. I felt like I was about to throw up or pass out. My fingers bloated to the point of pain. I walked an 100 meters to calm off from that last lap in about 77 degrees weather.
Running 9 miles in an hour and 22 minutes and coming home and doing an hour of strength training plus 30 minutes of Yoga with relaxing Celtic music playing makes me realize I love running. Its not to be better than someone else, its not to prove anything to anyone...its my way to relax, escape, and to find out who I really am through pushing myself.
The day after the race I felt energized to run again already, but my ankles were tight and sore. Then today came around. I woke up at 6 to watch the sun rise as I prepared myself for a great run or I hoped for one.
Starting at 7:30 I set out for my first 5k and feared for my long run that I felt I needed not for training and not for fun, but for my own sanity. The temperature was at about 68 degrees and my first 5k came to 29 minutes, which is my average time for that distance.
I went to the restroom and had some Gatorade to cool myself down. I set out on the 2nd round of the neighborhood and felt strong and faster. My muscles have been loosened up and my breathing became easy. The weather was still in a good place for me. Sun shining and rising in the East where two of the larger hills faced it. Sprinklers were nourishing the grass and glistening in the sun and moistening the air. Birds chirping and flying plus the Kites chasing the Crows away from their territory. Becoming part of the calm morning my run felt great and ended up being in 27 minutes.
Since the summer officially became hot my runs usually ended at 6 miles. This morning I replenished myself with more Gatorade and then poured iced water over my head, neck and chest. I set off on my 3rd round at a faster pace than intended, but felt amazing through it all. I walked once at the very end only for 30 seconds. I finished the last 5k in 26 minutes. I felt like I was about to throw up or pass out. My fingers bloated to the point of pain. I walked an 100 meters to calm off from that last lap in about 77 degrees weather.
Running 9 miles in an hour and 22 minutes and coming home and doing an hour of strength training plus 30 minutes of Yoga with relaxing Celtic music playing makes me realize I love running. Its not to be better than someone else, its not to prove anything to anyone...its my way to relax, escape, and to find out who I really am through pushing myself.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
My First Peachtree Road Race Experience
4:15 I started to wake up and got out of bed at 4:30. At this time I noticed I was out of my black tea. I ended up getting a small bowl of cereal and water. My family left at 5:20 am.
We arrived at MARTA before sunrise and hopped on. We arrived at the race while the wheelchair racers were warming up.
I found my wave (E) around 6:45 am. I decided at 6:50 to leave my family to claim my spot in the line up. In the hour I waited with the many other racers I chatted with a woman near my size and we watched the helicopters fly around us.
Before my wave started I saw my cousin who was in wave J. That was exciting.
Dave Matthews was playing over the loud speaker at the starting line and my stomach felt as if I was at the top of a rollercoaster before it drops. In a couple seconds at the starting line, I was off.
Before the first 100 meters was up my family cheered me on. They cheered me on once I arrived at 10th Street. I did not see them, but apparently my mom was so excited she ran into a fence trying to make me hear her.
It entertained me every time everyone had a clear view of the runners ahead and it was just one huge mass of people moving forward. I found this interesting, now, because the race is held on the 4th of July and its also the worlds largest 10k race, the movement of masses coming together for a coming goal should be an example for every day life.
I hit Cardiac Hill and flew up it feeling strong and great. Plus, being soaking wet made it even better. The water stations every mile, the strong sprinklers, the on lookers squirting the runners and the music made the atmosphere fun. I started having a blast by playing in the water and slapping hands with the kids on the side lines.
I didn't expect a PR off this race since its my fist time running it, the amazing amount of runners (50044 finishers), my schedule didn't allow me to run for 2 weeks prior and being bloated since I will start in 2 days.
My feet started to ache and my lower back cramped up with sickness setting in my stomach I had to walk after finishing Cardic Hill a small Asian older woman comes up behind me and goes "Come on. Your fast. GO!" I started to pace with her and she went "NO! GO ON!" I went off.
That held out for a bit and then I had to walk again. She caught up and said "I caught you. NOW GO!" I went. She caught me one more time at mile 5 and pushed me on. I kept in front of her and pushed a follow runner on. She did the same for me and as always I sprinted to the end.
My stats:
Chip time- 63:51 minutes
Overall place- 16338 out of 50044
Gender placement- 5423 out of 24306
Age Grade- 47.5%
With all factors in place I am proud of my race and I had fun.
We arrived at MARTA before sunrise and hopped on. We arrived at the race while the wheelchair racers were warming up.
I found my wave (E) around 6:45 am. I decided at 6:50 to leave my family to claim my spot in the line up. In the hour I waited with the many other racers I chatted with a woman near my size and we watched the helicopters fly around us.
Before my wave started I saw my cousin who was in wave J. That was exciting.
Dave Matthews was playing over the loud speaker at the starting line and my stomach felt as if I was at the top of a rollercoaster before it drops. In a couple seconds at the starting line, I was off.
Before the first 100 meters was up my family cheered me on. They cheered me on once I arrived at 10th Street. I did not see them, but apparently my mom was so excited she ran into a fence trying to make me hear her.
It entertained me every time everyone had a clear view of the runners ahead and it was just one huge mass of people moving forward. I found this interesting, now, because the race is held on the 4th of July and its also the worlds largest 10k race, the movement of masses coming together for a coming goal should be an example for every day life.
I hit Cardiac Hill and flew up it feeling strong and great. Plus, being soaking wet made it even better. The water stations every mile, the strong sprinklers, the on lookers squirting the runners and the music made the atmosphere fun. I started having a blast by playing in the water and slapping hands with the kids on the side lines.
I didn't expect a PR off this race since its my fist time running it, the amazing amount of runners (50044 finishers), my schedule didn't allow me to run for 2 weeks prior and being bloated since I will start in 2 days.
My feet started to ache and my lower back cramped up with sickness setting in my stomach I had to walk after finishing Cardic Hill a small Asian older woman comes up behind me and goes "Come on. Your fast. GO!" I started to pace with her and she went "NO! GO ON!" I went off.
That held out for a bit and then I had to walk again. She caught up and said "I caught you. NOW GO!" I went. She caught me one more time at mile 5 and pushed me on. I kept in front of her and pushed a follow runner on. She did the same for me and as always I sprinted to the end.
My stats:
Chip time- 63:51 minutes
Overall place- 16338 out of 50044
Gender placement- 5423 out of 24306
Age Grade- 47.5%
With all factors in place I am proud of my race and I had fun.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
I I Do Not Believe There is Such Thing as a Summer Break
Currently 2 jobs that are falling back to back of one another and just having about 40 to 50 hours on average per week my running has fell on the back burner. I have logged in miles, but nothing like before now.
The peachtree roadrace is coming up shortly. I am in the wave that begins pretty early. Luckly its near the time I train on an average day, which means I should be use to the time and tempature.
This morning I went for a run after a full week with little running and after a jaw injury (almost healed). I left my ipod in the car and ran a 5k. I enjoyed it. At first I felt stiff and huffed and puffed, but I got into a rythem of my own and just cruised. I ran it in my average time.
Can not wait to run the next 2 days!
The peachtree roadrace is coming up shortly. I am in the wave that begins pretty early. Luckly its near the time I train on an average day, which means I should be use to the time and tempature.
This morning I went for a run after a full week with little running and after a jaw injury (almost healed). I left my ipod in the car and ran a 5k. I enjoyed it. At first I felt stiff and huffed and puffed, but I got into a rythem of my own and just cruised. I ran it in my average time.
Can not wait to run the next 2 days!
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Summer Running
The hours I work plus the hotter days coming through is making my training more about fun runs than focused runs. I only ran 9 miles last week and each day only 3 miles each. I did set a PR in my training in one of these runs by running a 5k in 24 minutes, which is a 8 minute pace. I found this interesting since the night before I was reading the runners world magazine and it mentioned to have a faster marathon plan on running slower (10 minute pace) at the beginning of a long run than bump it up to a 8 minute pace at the end. I didn't even want to try that since I never even ran a 8 minute pace 5k once through. Now, I guess I should try it.
My training runs have been strong except the humidity is draining me. So, this morning I decided to try to beat the heat. Well, that failed to a point. I woke at 5:30 am and was running at about 6:45 as the sun was rising. It was about 70 degrees. The humidity was high though so I ended up with lots of sweat pouring out even my shins I had drops. I produced the amount of sweat as I use to do during the colder seasons when I ran about half marathon distances at a fast pace.
I ended up running a 10k in 55 minutes (another PR set during training) and would of continued to run longer, but I got dizzy. I got in my car to see the temperature and it was reaching up to 76 degrees already at 8 am.
Now, my plan is to learn to wake as it gets lighter and run. Plus, adapt to the heat.
My training runs have been strong except the humidity is draining me. So, this morning I decided to try to beat the heat. Well, that failed to a point. I woke at 5:30 am and was running at about 6:45 as the sun was rising. It was about 70 degrees. The humidity was high though so I ended up with lots of sweat pouring out even my shins I had drops. I produced the amount of sweat as I use to do during the colder seasons when I ran about half marathon distances at a fast pace.
I ended up running a 10k in 55 minutes (another PR set during training) and would of continued to run longer, but I got dizzy. I got in my car to see the temperature and it was reaching up to 76 degrees already at 8 am.
Now, my plan is to learn to wake as it gets lighter and run. Plus, adapt to the heat.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
The Winner is Not Always the Fastest, but the Person Who Keeps Running
Monday the 31st of May, also known as Memorial Day here in the United States is where we celebrate the right to be free and give thanks to those who fight for us to have that right. A good portion of these celebrations deal with getting drunk and big parties since the day is off.
On this day my friend decided to celebrate this day in a different fashion and allowed me to share this experience with her. She wanted to run her first trail run and first 5.32k race. She ran the Peachtree Road Race before. The race was scheduled for 3 pm (usually the hottest and muggest part of the day).
I actually was having trouble dealing with the low 70s and running in the morning with the heat. I was hoping she would back down, but I promised myself if she wanted to do it, then I would stick by her. She didn't back down and she was excited about it.
The race started up hill (which is bad because if your not trained to use up your lactic acid at the beginning than your can become fatigued faster and your muscles will cramp) than it looped through a trail twice. Stairs and a creek leap included. Than it finished down hill and looping around a lake.
My friend trained up to a mile before this race and also on road. During this race my goal was to stay with her (this sounds horrible, because it should of been the obvious choice, but I start running and I get in the zone and just go). I found it some what easy until the end. I wanted to just fly, but she had to remind to slow down. This race improved my mental run.
I am very very very impressed and proud of my friend. We didn't use MP3 players to distract us and she pushed on wards through out the race. Even through calf pain and numb feet she ran as much as she could. She was inspiring to see through all of this.
We placed 1st and 2nd in our age categories, but we were the only ones in it. I still believe she deserves that place because she pushed herself and conquered a new challenge.
On this day my friend decided to celebrate this day in a different fashion and allowed me to share this experience with her. She wanted to run her first trail run and first 5.32k race. She ran the Peachtree Road Race before. The race was scheduled for 3 pm (usually the hottest and muggest part of the day).
I actually was having trouble dealing with the low 70s and running in the morning with the heat. I was hoping she would back down, but I promised myself if she wanted to do it, then I would stick by her. She didn't back down and she was excited about it.
The race started up hill (which is bad because if your not trained to use up your lactic acid at the beginning than your can become fatigued faster and your muscles will cramp) than it looped through a trail twice. Stairs and a creek leap included. Than it finished down hill and looping around a lake.
My friend trained up to a mile before this race and also on road. During this race my goal was to stay with her (this sounds horrible, because it should of been the obvious choice, but I start running and I get in the zone and just go). I found it some what easy until the end. I wanted to just fly, but she had to remind to slow down. This race improved my mental run.
I am very very very impressed and proud of my friend. We didn't use MP3 players to distract us and she pushed on wards through out the race. Even through calf pain and numb feet she ran as much as she could. She was inspiring to see through all of this.
We placed 1st and 2nd in our age categories, but we were the only ones in it. I still believe she deserves that place because she pushed herself and conquered a new challenge.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Its All Mental
This week I accomplished 25.5 miles. I finally tapped into the power of waking up and running. I ran 2 miles Monday out of stress relief before a long day.
On Thursday I was off work so I decided to run my long run early. I ended up doing 3 miles, because I haven't yet bought hammer gels for the endurance.
Friday I tried again. In 3 hours I accomplished 6 miles. The reason it took so long was because I ran into two adorble boys who I subbed in pre-school who talked my ear off. Than I ran into a fellow runner who I ended up chatting with and hopefully set up a swimming routine with.
Today, Saturday, I woke up at 6:30 am and started running at 7:50 am. My muscles did not wake up unitl after the 1st 5k. I enjoyed the high 60s, muggy feel, overcast, and wind that accompanied me through out my run. During my frist 5k I saw 1 out of 4 of sisters that are my friends. During the 2nd round I saw the other (running with her for her first 5k race on Memorial Day. I am EXCITED for her!). On my 6 through 9 lap the youngest of them joined me for a little while.
During this lap my mp3 player died. I ran the last 1.5 miles without music. I swtiched to my iTouch for my 9 to 12 lap. I started running and couldn't get it on. I ended up running about 3 miles all together without music and loved it!
Facing my fear (after telling my friend that passing over mental blocks is key to running) I went out to run/walk the last lap to make it my first 15 mile run and I finished. I felt strong and at ease. I ran it in 2 hour and 28 minutes!!!
On Thursday I was off work so I decided to run my long run early. I ended up doing 3 miles, because I haven't yet bought hammer gels for the endurance.
Friday I tried again. In 3 hours I accomplished 6 miles. The reason it took so long was because I ran into two adorble boys who I subbed in pre-school who talked my ear off. Than I ran into a fellow runner who I ended up chatting with and hopefully set up a swimming routine with.
Today, Saturday, I woke up at 6:30 am and started running at 7:50 am. My muscles did not wake up unitl after the 1st 5k. I enjoyed the high 60s, muggy feel, overcast, and wind that accompanied me through out my run. During my frist 5k I saw 1 out of 4 of sisters that are my friends. During the 2nd round I saw the other (running with her for her first 5k race on Memorial Day. I am EXCITED for her!). On my 6 through 9 lap the youngest of them joined me for a little while.
During this lap my mp3 player died. I ran the last 1.5 miles without music. I swtiched to my iTouch for my 9 to 12 lap. I started running and couldn't get it on. I ended up running about 3 miles all together without music and loved it!
Facing my fear (after telling my friend that passing over mental blocks is key to running) I went out to run/walk the last lap to make it my first 15 mile run and I finished. I felt strong and at ease. I ran it in 2 hour and 28 minutes!!!
Monday, May 24, 2010
No Walls
On Monday I went out to run. About a mile and a half I got sick in the stomach and dizzy. This is the worse I ever felt it. I decided to stop and go to a friends house to cool down and get water/a banana.
I was nervous to run and finally decided to get myself up early and run on Saturday morning. My course in the neighborhood, 5k distance, was expanded by a neighborhood next door to it. My course became a 10k once through.
I ran a 10k straight through in abot 56 minutes. Than the only reason I stoped was for water to make sure I didn't get dehydrated. The last 10k felt great. I hit mile 8.5 and my mantra became "no wall, no wall!" It worked with the adding of the gu in moderation through out the rest of the miles. I ran all of it until I hit mile 11.5. I finished this distance in an hour and 52 minutes!
I enjoyed the course, because the first half is a neighborhood that is full of life and people. Plenty of distractions. The second half is empty since its not open yet. This is when I can become connected with myself and my surroundings.
Meditation is what I do when I run. Its my relaxion and my way to work things out. For example I woke this morning to stressful news. Before I went to work I went for a 2 mile run. What a great way to start the day!
I was nervous to run and finally decided to get myself up early and run on Saturday morning. My course in the neighborhood, 5k distance, was expanded by a neighborhood next door to it. My course became a 10k once through.
I ran a 10k straight through in abot 56 minutes. Than the only reason I stoped was for water to make sure I didn't get dehydrated. The last 10k felt great. I hit mile 8.5 and my mantra became "no wall, no wall!" It worked with the adding of the gu in moderation through out the rest of the miles. I ran all of it until I hit mile 11.5. I finished this distance in an hour and 52 minutes!
I enjoyed the course, because the first half is a neighborhood that is full of life and people. Plenty of distractions. The second half is empty since its not open yet. This is when I can become connected with myself and my surroundings.
Meditation is what I do when I run. Its my relaxion and my way to work things out. For example I woke this morning to stressful news. Before I went to work I went for a 2 mile run. What a great way to start the day!
Friday, May 21, 2010
Official Time of the Mayor's Challenge 10k
1:00:59 Official time
1:01:32 Time I Read
4th out of 6 Women in the 20-24 age bracket
61st out of 94 Women
172nd out of 225 Male and Female
1:01:32 Time I Read
4th out of 6 Women in the 20-24 age bracket
61st out of 94 Women
172nd out of 225 Male and Female
Sunday, May 16, 2010
235.24+ Miles into the Path of a Marathon (So Far)
This past week was a small week with miles put in, but a big week with the quality of the runs. On Tuesday I went for a run just because I felt the need to. The 2 miles turned into a strong 4 miles in 43 minutes with 5 hill repeats and 3 fartleks (one going up hill). On Thursday I did not really have time for a run, but I felt determined to fit it in. I ran 2 miles on the hill course that usually takes me about 25 minutes to run and I ended up doing it in 20 minutes. Also, both of those runs were accomplished in about 70 degrees weather (one cloudy and the other sunny, but both muggy), which shows I have adapted into this weather finally.
On Saturday I decided to run the Mayors Challenge, because it was going to be a fast race (qualifier for the Peachetree Roadrace) which I thought would be a good race to work through my mental block during races. I would train strong and get faster than on race day it would not seem as I trained as I did.
This race proved I broke through my mental block. Mile 1 I timed in at 9:18, mile 4 I timed in at about 37 minutes, mile 5 at 49 minutes and I finished the race in 61:32!!! My first 10k race was in 66 minutes. I shaved off 5 minutes and ran faster than even my training runs. Also, I was only 6 minutes behind the top finisher in my age category. I had to walk after hitting around mile 4 since my pace was harder than I am use to (about minute faster), but I am really proud of myself and gained my confidence back!
On Saturday I decided to run the Mayors Challenge, because it was going to be a fast race (qualifier for the Peachetree Roadrace) which I thought would be a good race to work through my mental block during races. I would train strong and get faster than on race day it would not seem as I trained as I did.
This race proved I broke through my mental block. Mile 1 I timed in at 9:18, mile 4 I timed in at about 37 minutes, mile 5 at 49 minutes and I finished the race in 61:32!!! My first 10k race was in 66 minutes. I shaved off 5 minutes and ran faster than even my training runs. Also, I was only 6 minutes behind the top finisher in my age category. I had to walk after hitting around mile 4 since my pace was harder than I am use to (about minute faster), but I am really proud of myself and gained my confidence back!
Sunday, May 9, 2010
2 Miles Last Year to 12 Miles This Year
Waking up at sunrise to run did not happen during the week. I realize with my work schedule and than my afternoon relaxing time with my family puts me to bed around mid-night and if I wake around 6:30 am I am getting 30 minutes less sleep than I need.
I still trained in the afternoon, but learning quickly that the sun bearing down on me and the heat is not my cup of tea. I really started training and racing during the "off season," which is during the cold seasons. I did run last year at this time, but was trying to reach 2 miles straight. Now, I do a easy run of 3 to 6 miles and my long run has reached 12 miles. This causes me to be out longer and for it to warm up considerably during the run.
On Tuesday of last week I went out to run 6 to 9 miles. I made it through 3 easily and felt great, but once I started the next 3 the sun and heat made me dizzy and my muscles cramped up. I had to end the training at 6 miles, which the last half was running and walking mixed.
On Wednesday I went on my hill course of 2 miles. Planned to have 2 to 4 miles. Made it to 2 and same feeling came over with a touch of sickness in my stomach. 80 plus degrees at 3 to 5 in the afternoon is too intense for me so far. I went home and did my excercise ball routine twice through with adding lunges to it. Felt great.
Yesterday, Saturday, I woke at 6:30 am and got ready to run at 9. My plan was to run 12 to 15 miles. I ran a half marathon once. My longest training run before that was 9 miles. I ran a 10k in an 1:00:00 than took a water break. I ran the next 5k in 30 minutes and ate orange Hammer Gel. The 9 miles at this point felt strong and endurance wise easy. The next 3 miles felt strong with my energy pumped back up, but my left hip, kness, and ankles started to hurt really badly. I didn't really hit the "wall" so to speak till mile 10.5 or 11 where I started running/walking. (During the half marathon race I hit the wall at mile 9ish). I still did this in about 30 minutes. I believe the gel gave me an amped up feeling where that round felt mentally like my first lap. Took off too fast at the start of it.
I know my endurance can hold out now. My mental state too. I just have to get where I am during a training run and translate it into a race day. Training I am by myself and can get into a rythem that is good for me and also sometimes get me PR's in my training runs. Once I have people around me I try to match their paces and this hurts me.
I am hoping to figure this out during a race next Saturday.
I still trained in the afternoon, but learning quickly that the sun bearing down on me and the heat is not my cup of tea. I really started training and racing during the "off season," which is during the cold seasons. I did run last year at this time, but was trying to reach 2 miles straight. Now, I do a easy run of 3 to 6 miles and my long run has reached 12 miles. This causes me to be out longer and for it to warm up considerably during the run.
On Tuesday of last week I went out to run 6 to 9 miles. I made it through 3 easily and felt great, but once I started the next 3 the sun and heat made me dizzy and my muscles cramped up. I had to end the training at 6 miles, which the last half was running and walking mixed.
On Wednesday I went on my hill course of 2 miles. Planned to have 2 to 4 miles. Made it to 2 and same feeling came over with a touch of sickness in my stomach. 80 plus degrees at 3 to 5 in the afternoon is too intense for me so far. I went home and did my excercise ball routine twice through with adding lunges to it. Felt great.
Yesterday, Saturday, I woke at 6:30 am and got ready to run at 9. My plan was to run 12 to 15 miles. I ran a half marathon once. My longest training run before that was 9 miles. I ran a 10k in an 1:00:00 than took a water break. I ran the next 5k in 30 minutes and ate orange Hammer Gel. The 9 miles at this point felt strong and endurance wise easy. The next 3 miles felt strong with my energy pumped back up, but my left hip, kness, and ankles started to hurt really badly. I didn't really hit the "wall" so to speak till mile 10.5 or 11 where I started running/walking. (During the half marathon race I hit the wall at mile 9ish). I still did this in about 30 minutes. I believe the gel gave me an amped up feeling where that round felt mentally like my first lap. Took off too fast at the start of it.
I know my endurance can hold out now. My mental state too. I just have to get where I am during a training run and translate it into a race day. Training I am by myself and can get into a rythem that is good for me and also sometimes get me PR's in my training runs. Once I have people around me I try to match their paces and this hurts me.
I am hoping to figure this out during a race next Saturday.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
New Training Plan
On Wednesday I ran a 26 minute 5k on my training hill course, which I believed was a good indicator for breaking my PR on today's race. The Boulder Dash attracted 1800 runners and walkers. Also, at the finish line my parents said there wasn't a lead pack and then the rest of the runners. Once the first two came in, one man than woman, it was non-stop.
My "pacing partner," ripped up the quarry with a time of 26:07. I finished in 29:00 with that being 9 seconds off my PR. Funny part is I thought the timer was reading 23 minutes and I sprinted to the end as usual and as I did this the man on the microphone announced "oh, we have a sprinter. Please be careful! Slow down!" I didn't and ended up going in the male lane.
My two cousins ran the race too and it was their first race. They finished in 33:22, which is super impressive and I am so proud of them! With the humidity and the mud plus gravel made the running surface soft that made this course a mild level of intensity.
Another cousin walked it and I am proud of her too. She hopes to run it with us next year.
From this race and others I have notice that my body has trouble waking up and warming up at these races. For a 5k I have no time to warm up in the race. I just need to be in pace and speed up. My new training plan for now is waking up at sunrise, before work, and running 2 miles. It doesn't matter the time as long as its around 20 minutes or so to teach my body to enjoy early runs. Than the afternoon I will do my quality work outs still. After my body gets use to it with waking, eating, and drinking tea than go run I will add speed training to it.
My "pacing partner," ripped up the quarry with a time of 26:07. I finished in 29:00 with that being 9 seconds off my PR. Funny part is I thought the timer was reading 23 minutes and I sprinted to the end as usual and as I did this the man on the microphone announced "oh, we have a sprinter. Please be careful! Slow down!" I didn't and ended up going in the male lane.
My two cousins ran the race too and it was their first race. They finished in 33:22, which is super impressive and I am so proud of them! With the humidity and the mud plus gravel made the running surface soft that made this course a mild level of intensity.
Another cousin walked it and I am proud of her too. She hopes to run it with us next year.
From this race and others I have notice that my body has trouble waking up and warming up at these races. For a 5k I have no time to warm up in the race. I just need to be in pace and speed up. My new training plan for now is waking up at sunrise, before work, and running 2 miles. It doesn't matter the time as long as its around 20 minutes or so to teach my body to enjoy early runs. Than the afternoon I will do my quality work outs still. After my body gets use to it with waking, eating, and drinking tea than go run I will add speed training to it.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Recovery Over and Races resume this Saturday
I have trained on my 2 mile course and 5k course with good results with both. This was after giving my body about a week of rest and having a massage too.
I have the Boulder Dash 5k this Saturday, I am planning on the Warrior Dash on the 23rd of May, the Peachtree Roadrace on the 4th of July, 13.1 Marathon (my birthday present to my self) on the 3rd of October, and Thanksgiving 2010 I will run my first Full Marathon. This will complete my year journey to a marathon.
Of course there will be more races, with many different distances on road and trial, that will be conquered. New goals set and met. Plus, new personal records being made.
Excited about it all!
I have the Boulder Dash 5k this Saturday, I am planning on the Warrior Dash on the 23rd of May, the Peachtree Roadrace on the 4th of July, 13.1 Marathon (my birthday present to my self) on the 3rd of October, and Thanksgiving 2010 I will run my first Full Marathon. This will complete my year journey to a marathon.
Of course there will be more races, with many different distances on road and trial, that will be conquered. New goals set and met. Plus, new personal records being made.
Excited about it all!
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Impossible Can Made into Possible by Removing 2 letters...
At age 4 I was told I would never be able to graduate from high school in a "normal class." I did with honors. I graduated from college in 4 years with honors. Now, I am going to start graduate school in August of this year.
I grew up with people telling me that I couldn't do it. Guess what? I did and I am on a journey to prove that the impossible can be possible. I am not the only person who does such. Watch or read anything about the crowd who accomplish or even attempt the Ironman, in Hawaii, and you will become a believer that if you want it...you can have it.
This past Saturday, April 17th I ran my first half marathon. Two of my cousins decided to run it too. One of them this was his 2nd go at the course. I knew it was going to be tough and I believe on a road race I could do the distance in about 2 hours, but this course I gave myself anywhere before 3 hours or a little after.
The whole week before this run I felt sick turns out it was mainly nerves. Lots of sleep needed and suppressed apatite, which does not help on race day. I also, missed the last day for registration on the net that is something I never do. I had every excuse not to do it, but I felt ready so I decided to "just do it."
This was my 4th weekend back to back of races: March 27th 5k at 30:05, April 3rd first 4.5 mile run and trail run (toughest in the Dirty Spokes series) 56:58, April 10th first 10k 1:06:00, and yesterday first half marathon and 2nd trail race 2:58:31.
The first 2 miles I paced with one of my cousins, which was his first time on trail, but he raced the ING half a month earlier that year and he ended up pulling out in front. When I reached mile 3 I felt strong and that felt great. Miles 3 to 4 was flat and sandy. A man in a bright yellow shirt ended up pacing with me and we chatted a bit. He told me that when he went on a mission trip to Africa the locals walked 6 miles to the nearest well and back. He told me if they could do that daily he can run half at least once. They are raising money to build a well that will be closer.
At about mile 6 we crossed another bag pipe player (first was around mile 2.5) and I realized I felt strong compared to what I expected, which lead to me crying and I picked up my pace. Around this point a woman in blue became my pusher. We would lose each other and catch back up and said "come on, we are good" to each other.
Around mile 8 I started to hit my wall and hard. Plus, little to my understanding was the hardest part of the course too. I lost the woman in the blue shirt. The meadows were hard, all in the sun and no shade with rolling hills and hotter than I am use to training in. I definitely felt the pain from my hips down and the fatigue setting in.
Around mile 9 a fellow passed me and handed me a goo, he said it had 2 shots of caffine in it and I be fine. That worried me since caffine is what caused my heart to act up about a year ago. I decided to use it, because I was at my wits in plus the granite was taking its toll on my lower body.
Around mile 10 to 11 I got the energy again, but my the pain was horrid, my heart started to race, and I felt faint. Around this point I was at lower elevation, near a swamp, and shaded I took this time to walk to get my self together again.
I was lucky I pulled myself together at this point, because the steepest and long incline lurked after that breather. The 2nd drumer and 1st saxaphone player played Jason Marez as I finished that incline.
I ran a little bit towards the last water station at 12.1 miles at this point I factored 3 hours was attainable or a little after. Reaching the station it was 10 minutes till 10. We started 4 minutes after 8 and that I forgot.
I walked unitl the last incline and started running and met up with 2 men with white shirts. I told them come on lets finish strong together. A second later I saw the timer it was 2:57: something and I took off. I sprinted with every ounce of energy left in me. Forget the pain I will finish before 3 hours.
Its easy to flip the pencil over and erase 2 letters. Its possible!
I grew up with people telling me that I couldn't do it. Guess what? I did and I am on a journey to prove that the impossible can be possible. I am not the only person who does such. Watch or read anything about the crowd who accomplish or even attempt the Ironman, in Hawaii, and you will become a believer that if you want it...you can have it.
This past Saturday, April 17th I ran my first half marathon. Two of my cousins decided to run it too. One of them this was his 2nd go at the course. I knew it was going to be tough and I believe on a road race I could do the distance in about 2 hours, but this course I gave myself anywhere before 3 hours or a little after.
The whole week before this run I felt sick turns out it was mainly nerves. Lots of sleep needed and suppressed apatite, which does not help on race day. I also, missed the last day for registration on the net that is something I never do. I had every excuse not to do it, but I felt ready so I decided to "just do it."
This was my 4th weekend back to back of races: March 27th 5k at 30:05, April 3rd first 4.5 mile run and trail run (toughest in the Dirty Spokes series) 56:58, April 10th first 10k 1:06:00, and yesterday first half marathon and 2nd trail race 2:58:31.
The first 2 miles I paced with one of my cousins, which was his first time on trail, but he raced the ING half a month earlier that year and he ended up pulling out in front. When I reached mile 3 I felt strong and that felt great. Miles 3 to 4 was flat and sandy. A man in a bright yellow shirt ended up pacing with me and we chatted a bit. He told me that when he went on a mission trip to Africa the locals walked 6 miles to the nearest well and back. He told me if they could do that daily he can run half at least once. They are raising money to build a well that will be closer.
At about mile 6 we crossed another bag pipe player (first was around mile 2.5) and I realized I felt strong compared to what I expected, which lead to me crying and I picked up my pace. Around this point a woman in blue became my pusher. We would lose each other and catch back up and said "come on, we are good" to each other.
Around mile 8 I started to hit my wall and hard. Plus, little to my understanding was the hardest part of the course too. I lost the woman in the blue shirt. The meadows were hard, all in the sun and no shade with rolling hills and hotter than I am use to training in. I definitely felt the pain from my hips down and the fatigue setting in.
Around mile 9 a fellow passed me and handed me a goo, he said it had 2 shots of caffine in it and I be fine. That worried me since caffine is what caused my heart to act up about a year ago. I decided to use it, because I was at my wits in plus the granite was taking its toll on my lower body.
Around mile 10 to 11 I got the energy again, but my the pain was horrid, my heart started to race, and I felt faint. Around this point I was at lower elevation, near a swamp, and shaded I took this time to walk to get my self together again.
I was lucky I pulled myself together at this point, because the steepest and long incline lurked after that breather. The 2nd drumer and 1st saxaphone player played Jason Marez as I finished that incline.
I ran a little bit towards the last water station at 12.1 miles at this point I factored 3 hours was attainable or a little after. Reaching the station it was 10 minutes till 10. We started 4 minutes after 8 and that I forgot.
I walked unitl the last incline and started running and met up with 2 men with white shirts. I told them come on lets finish strong together. A second later I saw the timer it was 2:57: something and I took off. I sprinted with every ounce of energy left in me. Forget the pain I will finish before 3 hours.
Its easy to flip the pencil over and erase 2 letters. Its possible!
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Its Personal
Moving my month of madness of running was a great idea, because I have ran a race each week from the 27th of March to yesterday. My lowest placement has been 5th and the last 2 races I placed 3rd in my age group. My last race of my month of madness of running is next Saturday, which will be a half marathon trail race.
This past race was my first 10k race. Some reason that was a big milestone marker for me. I was more nervous about that distance than the half marathon. To make matters even more interesting I decided to give myself more room to sleep since the race was only about 40 minutes away. Once I got in the car the GPS didn't really recognize the address. My mom and me were already running late so I couldn't go back and get the full address. I picked one that seemed similar and hoped for the best.
As we came close we ran into construction, which slowed us down big time. According to the GPS if we did find it I would only have about 15 minutes to spare before the race and I had to use the bathroom before it. I told my mom at this point if we do not find it by 7:50 I am calling quits because I am not going to pee on myself during the race. As I finished we found the church.
With 10 minutes to spare I found the restroom as my mom grabbed my bid. I went back to my car to put my running shoes on and found my doors shut and locked. I paniced for a second, because I thought my mom locked my keys in the car. She didn't. I suited up and got ready to run.
During the 1st 3 miles I passed a dead squirrel on the road inside the cones on our course. Also, the 1st 3 miles was flat and down hill which I found hard since I am use to training on hills. During this 3 miles the top finishers separated them selves in front of me and the slower runners were a good bit behind me. Most of the race I spent by myself. The only other person in the race was this older gentleman who ran/ walked the course.
The last 3 miles were full of all different lengths and intensities of inclines, which I liked and also I ended up picking up my pace.
Ironic moment of the race: approaching on mile 4 the timer person was smoking a ciggerate. I found that very rude and opposite from what we were doing.
By the time I hit mile 4 also I knew I could run the whole race, which at the pace I was going could do right around an hour. Hitting mile 5 I almost thought about walking, but I talked myself out of it. With the sun shining in my eyes and my desire to keep pushing on I looked at my clock and told myself only about 10 more minutes to go. My hips and lower back has been sore feeling for the majority of the race, but nothing to horrid. Seeing the 6 mile marker felt amazing. I picked up my pace for the 200 meters and sprinted my heart out on the last 100 meters. My time was an hour and six minutes.
I placed 3rd in my age group and 29th overall for the women!
On the way home my mom was debating if she could or wanted to go to my race next Saturday. Its far away and I will also have a family member racing too. I ended up stating it doesn't matter who is there, because its about me. Its a personal sport. Its your time, its your goal, you depend on your training, and that is all it is. It is yours and yours only.
This past race was my first 10k race. Some reason that was a big milestone marker for me. I was more nervous about that distance than the half marathon. To make matters even more interesting I decided to give myself more room to sleep since the race was only about 40 minutes away. Once I got in the car the GPS didn't really recognize the address. My mom and me were already running late so I couldn't go back and get the full address. I picked one that seemed similar and hoped for the best.
As we came close we ran into construction, which slowed us down big time. According to the GPS if we did find it I would only have about 15 minutes to spare before the race and I had to use the bathroom before it. I told my mom at this point if we do not find it by 7:50 I am calling quits because I am not going to pee on myself during the race. As I finished we found the church.
With 10 minutes to spare I found the restroom as my mom grabbed my bid. I went back to my car to put my running shoes on and found my doors shut and locked. I paniced for a second, because I thought my mom locked my keys in the car. She didn't. I suited up and got ready to run.
During the 1st 3 miles I passed a dead squirrel on the road inside the cones on our course. Also, the 1st 3 miles was flat and down hill which I found hard since I am use to training on hills. During this 3 miles the top finishers separated them selves in front of me and the slower runners were a good bit behind me. Most of the race I spent by myself. The only other person in the race was this older gentleman who ran/ walked the course.
The last 3 miles were full of all different lengths and intensities of inclines, which I liked and also I ended up picking up my pace.
Ironic moment of the race: approaching on mile 4 the timer person was smoking a ciggerate. I found that very rude and opposite from what we were doing.
By the time I hit mile 4 also I knew I could run the whole race, which at the pace I was going could do right around an hour. Hitting mile 5 I almost thought about walking, but I talked myself out of it. With the sun shining in my eyes and my desire to keep pushing on I looked at my clock and told myself only about 10 more minutes to go. My hips and lower back has been sore feeling for the majority of the race, but nothing to horrid. Seeing the 6 mile marker felt amazing. I picked up my pace for the 200 meters and sprinted my heart out on the last 100 meters. My time was an hour and six minutes.
I placed 3rd in my age group and 29th overall for the women!
On the way home my mom was debating if she could or wanted to go to my race next Saturday. Its far away and I will also have a family member racing too. I ended up stating it doesn't matter who is there, because its about me. Its a personal sport. Its your time, its your goal, you depend on your training, and that is all it is. It is yours and yours only.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
I Am a Mountain Goat
This morning I awoke at 5:15 am to prepare to drive about an hour for a race, my first 4.5 mile run and first trail race. My parents drove me, but I had to use the restroom on the way there and 3 times once we arrived. My stomach was TORNED UP. I can not tell if it was caused by nerves or not, but 2 nights before I woke up my mom and sister yelling "turn right! Turn right!"
I signed up a week before, the day of my 5k in the ATL, on March 27th. Actually I just found the results from the race: I placed 34th out of 213 females (it was co-ed, but the results are written disorginzed/ segarated) and I estimated about 20 in my age group, which I placed 5th in.
Back to this morning, I ran into my pacing partner from my 2nd 5k, who I started the race with and she beat me by a minute. She is a rock star! The 1st mile or so was on the gravel trail than we started up through the woods. They called for 3 steep hills, but well they LIED. Just kidding just it was a tough course.
The trail had a hill called the wall, which I thought we hit before we even really hit it. Everyone had to walk it, because it was so steep. The river crossing was through a 18 inch place and the other 2 were leap worthy. So, were the logs and roots sometimes.
At reaching 2.7 miles I decided I just wanted to be done. Plus, I should mention that I did not use my Ipod this race. Right before hitting the water station at 2.7 miles it was flat and easy. My mind got bored. Lucky for me the course became a challenge again and the Ipod was not missed anymore.
At this point I realized my time should be at an hour or a little after. I was short of breath and worn about half way through the course. By the time I reached the 3rd mile I decided I was going to finish with runnng the rest of the 1.5 miles.
While accomplishing this I heard someone creeping up on me. I decided to let him pass, because I found a comfortble pace (even though I had a horrid stitch in my side). He told me to go on and he was just trying to stay up with me. That pushed me harder and stronger longer than I expected.
As we were closing in on the last 500 to 400 meters I started walking and this woman behind me yelled "keep going! We are almost done! Your my pacing makers! Don't give up on me now!" I loved that feeling that I was being used to set a pace for 2 people so I started up again and pushed a little faster as I inched down the last bit of trail. As I hit the gravel I sprinted as hard as I could. I saw the timer clocking me in about 57 minutes. I was stocked and extremely proud of myself.
The annoncements of the results were occuring and I told my mom it be funny if I placed 3rd. I did and my offical time was actually 56:59 recorded by the time chip I wore. I was about 3 minutes faster than I figured.
I signed up a week before, the day of my 5k in the ATL, on March 27th. Actually I just found the results from the race: I placed 34th out of 213 females (it was co-ed, but the results are written disorginzed/ segarated) and I estimated about 20 in my age group, which I placed 5th in.
Back to this morning, I ran into my pacing partner from my 2nd 5k, who I started the race with and she beat me by a minute. She is a rock star! The 1st mile or so was on the gravel trail than we started up through the woods. They called for 3 steep hills, but well they LIED. Just kidding just it was a tough course.
The trail had a hill called the wall, which I thought we hit before we even really hit it. Everyone had to walk it, because it was so steep. The river crossing was through a 18 inch place and the other 2 were leap worthy. So, were the logs and roots sometimes.
At reaching 2.7 miles I decided I just wanted to be done. Plus, I should mention that I did not use my Ipod this race. Right before hitting the water station at 2.7 miles it was flat and easy. My mind got bored. Lucky for me the course became a challenge again and the Ipod was not missed anymore.
At this point I realized my time should be at an hour or a little after. I was short of breath and worn about half way through the course. By the time I reached the 3rd mile I decided I was going to finish with runnng the rest of the 1.5 miles.
While accomplishing this I heard someone creeping up on me. I decided to let him pass, because I found a comfortble pace (even though I had a horrid stitch in my side). He told me to go on and he was just trying to stay up with me. That pushed me harder and stronger longer than I expected.
As we were closing in on the last 500 to 400 meters I started walking and this woman behind me yelled "keep going! We are almost done! Your my pacing makers! Don't give up on me now!" I loved that feeling that I was being used to set a pace for 2 people so I started up again and pushed a little faster as I inched down the last bit of trail. As I hit the gravel I sprinted as hard as I could. I saw the timer clocking me in about 57 minutes. I was stocked and extremely proud of myself.
The annoncements of the results were occuring and I told my mom it be funny if I placed 3rd. I did and my offical time was actually 56:59 recorded by the time chip I wore. I was about 3 minutes faster than I figured.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
17 Days
The half marathon's date is in 17 days (not including today). So, far in my training I ran 10 miles without stopping on a fairly flat course and yesterday I ran 9 miles on a hilly course.
I ran 3 5ks with breaks to stretch, drink water, and eat parts of a banana. It was the warmest weather I have ran in since last summer. The pollen and warmth made it interesting. I adored the blossoms that were occurring though and a light breeze. Also, along with all that the bustle and atmosphere changes in the neighborhoods I run in.
One gentleman kept riding his bike in front of me doing many tricks, which were impressive. Another group of boys were riding too and did small tricks like riding without hands near me. This of course tickled me.
There was a dog who barks at me every time I passed (Monday 5k run and yesterdays run) and I finally asked if he just didn't like people. The owner told me he didn't like people running. Next time I passed I walked and the dog was fine.
Another dog wanted to scare me, but the dog was all head and barely off the ground. Tiny tiny tiny toy looking dog. The last dog was a golden retriever with a tiny child attached to it. The dog could easily walk her instead of her walking it. When I ran passed them I heard her trailing behind me. I found that adorable.
Also, since my last post I ran a 5k race (that T.I. ran) and it was my 4th race. Its my 2nd with hills. 2 (1 flat and 1 hilly) I did not run the whole thing and 2 (1 flat and 1 hilly) I ran straight through.
Heading out to do pilates and next race will happen this Saturday. Its a 4.5 mile trail run.
I ran 3 5ks with breaks to stretch, drink water, and eat parts of a banana. It was the warmest weather I have ran in since last summer. The pollen and warmth made it interesting. I adored the blossoms that were occurring though and a light breeze. Also, along with all that the bustle and atmosphere changes in the neighborhoods I run in.
One gentleman kept riding his bike in front of me doing many tricks, which were impressive. Another group of boys were riding too and did small tricks like riding without hands near me. This of course tickled me.
There was a dog who barks at me every time I passed (Monday 5k run and yesterdays run) and I finally asked if he just didn't like people. The owner told me he didn't like people running. Next time I passed I walked and the dog was fine.
Another dog wanted to scare me, but the dog was all head and barely off the ground. Tiny tiny tiny toy looking dog. The last dog was a golden retriever with a tiny child attached to it. The dog could easily walk her instead of her walking it. When I ran passed them I heard her trailing behind me. I found that adorable.
Also, since my last post I ran a 5k race (that T.I. ran) and it was my 4th race. Its my 2nd with hills. 2 (1 flat and 1 hilly) I did not run the whole thing and 2 (1 flat and 1 hilly) I ran straight through.
Heading out to do pilates and next race will happen this Saturday. Its a 4.5 mile trail run.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Running 13.1 Miles with NO Music...WHAT?????
I am taking on 2 new challenges for me to conquer by April 17th. One is a challenge I had been working up for and had to re-schedule and that is a half marathon, but this one is different because its over granite slabs, through the forest, rivers beds, and through a meadow. The second one is the most scary thought of them all for me and that is NO IPODS are allowed.
All my life I always had background noise. I have slept with it, I did my homework with it, and it helped me stay focus. It relaxes me and it jazzes me up. Keeps me distracted and not on other things that stress me. This challenge not only is going to push me physically, but mentally.
Today, was my 1st training day with trail runs and no music incorporated. I took my MP3 player with me just to feel like I am choosing to run without music instead of being forced to it. My woods run took about 10 minutes and it was down hill/ up hill and through mud and water. After that I ran a 2 mile run hill run.
The woods run taught me that no music is the best thing possible, because you have to respond to changes and be aware of everything around you. I made up the course as I went. The 2 mile run on my hill course on roads was strong without music until I hit the big hills at the end. Thats when the music came back on.
Good 1st day. Can't wait to do more.
All my life I always had background noise. I have slept with it, I did my homework with it, and it helped me stay focus. It relaxes me and it jazzes me up. Keeps me distracted and not on other things that stress me. This challenge not only is going to push me physically, but mentally.
Today, was my 1st training day with trail runs and no music incorporated. I took my MP3 player with me just to feel like I am choosing to run without music instead of being forced to it. My woods run took about 10 minutes and it was down hill/ up hill and through mud and water. After that I ran a 2 mile run hill run.
The woods run taught me that no music is the best thing possible, because you have to respond to changes and be aware of everything around you. I made up the course as I went. The 2 mile run on my hill course on roads was strong without music until I hit the big hills at the end. Thats when the music came back on.
Good 1st day. Can't wait to do more.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
I Am Officially a Long Distance Runner
I did not feel like when I ran 3 to 6 miles (after the 3.5 mile mark I usually walked/run) that I could consider myself a long distance runner. Today, at sunrise, I met a co-worker/ friend, who biked while I ran. She rode half a mile ahead and looped around passed me and repeated this through my run today. At about 2.5 miles I decided to tell her I never ran more than 3.5 miles without stopping.
I ended up running a full 10 miles without stopping, actually I did only when I had to at a road crossing. That only took a minute at the most.
Now, I condersider myself a long distance runner.
From a 2 week break from being sick. I had a great 18 miles this week.
I ended up running a full 10 miles without stopping, actually I did only when I had to at a road crossing. That only took a minute at the most.
Now, I condersider myself a long distance runner.
From a 2 week break from being sick. I had a great 18 miles this week.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
I CHALLENGE You
Alright the purpose behind this blog is to motivate others right along myself. I know people read this, but I believe its time to include you on the journey.
To become healthier or stronger people have to make changes in their lives that can be hard to do alone.
My challenge to you is to be public with others on your choices to become better through diets, working out, or whatever it maybe.
Post it in the comments box (if you know me personally and you try to comment and it won't let you....let me know and I can fix it) with your goal for a months time in mind and post your next weeks (starting from Sunday till the next Sunday) goal to reach that point.
Remember to keep the goals realistic, but challenging yourself too.
My goal for a month from now is a half marathon, the Grinite Grind.
My goal for next week is run up to or more than 10 miles in my long run.
At the end of each week we can keep each other posted on our goals and how we did. Through out the week we can give each other advice and motivation.
LETS TAKE A CHALLENGE TO BECOME STRONGER PEOPLE!
To become healthier or stronger people have to make changes in their lives that can be hard to do alone.
My challenge to you is to be public with others on your choices to become better through diets, working out, or whatever it maybe.
Post it in the comments box (if you know me personally and you try to comment and it won't let you....let me know and I can fix it) with your goal for a months time in mind and post your next weeks (starting from Sunday till the next Sunday) goal to reach that point.
Remember to keep the goals realistic, but challenging yourself too.
My goal for a month from now is a half marathon, the Grinite Grind.
My goal for next week is run up to or more than 10 miles in my long run.
At the end of each week we can keep each other posted on our goals and how we did. Through out the week we can give each other advice and motivation.
LETS TAKE A CHALLENGE TO BECOME STRONGER PEOPLE!
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
I See a Beautiful Day When Others Do Not
Low 50s and light showers greeted me on the day I finally deemed myself ready to start running again, safely. Plus, this week is inventory so I am working more hours. After my shift today my ankle was sore and my muscles ached from standing so long.
I decided to suit up still and go run outside on my hill course. My limit was just one time through, which is 2 miles. The reason behind this was to make sure not to over do it and get sick again.
I am glad I did, because with being outside again felt great and wasn't too hot or cold. The light breeze and drizzle made it fun. The birds reminded me that spring is on its way.
My muscles and breathing went into automatic pilot and the first slight incline that usually gives me trouble was easy and smooth. I thought that was a bad sign. Expected to crash before the even one mile was up. I was wrong. The whole 2 miles were strong and smooth. I felt amazing. I touch of sickness was in my stomach and I was a little dizzy so I stuck to my limit.
I ran the course in 21 minutes. My fastest time is about 20 minutes and my average is 25. I am back and stronger than I figured.
I decided to suit up still and go run outside on my hill course. My limit was just one time through, which is 2 miles. The reason behind this was to make sure not to over do it and get sick again.
I am glad I did, because with being outside again felt great and wasn't too hot or cold. The light breeze and drizzle made it fun. The birds reminded me that spring is on its way.
My muscles and breathing went into automatic pilot and the first slight incline that usually gives me trouble was easy and smooth. I thought that was a bad sign. Expected to crash before the even one mile was up. I was wrong. The whole 2 miles were strong and smooth. I felt amazing. I touch of sickness was in my stomach and I was a little dizzy so I stuck to my limit.
I ran the course in 21 minutes. My fastest time is about 20 minutes and my average is 25. I am back and stronger than I figured.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Tail End of Being REALLY Sick
Today I was going to try to run, but I have a really bad headache I couldn't shake. So, I did YOGA instead which felt absolutely amazing. Tomorrow watch out I am going to RUN!!!!
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Plans Deferred
In my want to make this a great month of running I pushed too hard and also came down with three ailments. I am finally getting to where my energy is coming back to do my average days work.
Through this I missed 2 5ks (one I went out of town last minute) and today missing the 10k I wanted to run. The half marathon I wanted to run is next Sunday. I am not going to run it, because I do not have enough time to build back up to where I was in my training and push further. I know I will finish it, but since running is something I am good at I would want my first half to be strong.
On the 27th I am running a 5k, which is going to start my cycle over again that I planned on doing this past month that would of started on the 28th of February. I am planning on trying a simple light run tomorrow on Sunday. 2 miles on my hill course and some yoga to finish it up.
By mid April or early May I plan on the half marathon.
Through this I missed 2 5ks (one I went out of town last minute) and today missing the 10k I wanted to run. The half marathon I wanted to run is next Sunday. I am not going to run it, because I do not have enough time to build back up to where I was in my training and push further. I know I will finish it, but since running is something I am good at I would want my first half to be strong.
On the 27th I am running a 5k, which is going to start my cycle over again that I planned on doing this past month that would of started on the 28th of February. I am planning on trying a simple light run tomorrow on Sunday. 2 miles on my hill course and some yoga to finish it up.
By mid April or early May I plan on the half marathon.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Sick
After my 6 mile run on Tuesday my ear started to hurt and congestion progressed so much my mom suggested to me to go to the doctor after work on Wednesday. Glad I went because I will go go go until I hit the wall. I am using my energy currently to fight off 3 bacterial infections: strep, upper respitory infection, and an ear ache.
This means though the race I planned on running on tomorrow will not happen, because my ear is still giving me problems which will cause me to have a lack of balance. Also, my congestion would make it hard to breath properly for the race.
Hope I heal up soon so I can run a 10k next Sunday and than the half marathon two Sundays from now.
Hate being sick.
This means though the race I planned on running on tomorrow will not happen, because my ear is still giving me problems which will cause me to have a lack of balance. Also, my congestion would make it hard to breath properly for the race.
Hope I heal up soon so I can run a 10k next Sunday and than the half marathon two Sundays from now.
Hate being sick.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Natural Pain Killers
In my recent Runners World magazine there was an article mentioning pain reliever remedies that are natural and works like Advil does. We all know that Advil in the like can cause damage to our livers if we take too much of it.
I tested 2 of these today after 4 miles running on my hill course where more than 2 miles is up hill in about 40 degrees weather with about 5 to 10 mph winds in the teens wind chill, which can cause my knees and hips to ache. Since my training was going slower than usual and the wind was chilling me to the bone I decided to finish my goal on the treadmill.
I took a break and did 30 minutes of pilates with a bodyband.
The last 2 miles I struggled with because of tightness and pain. I decided to walk 5 minutes and then try to run. It didn't go well, but I was determined to run 2 miles. The last mile I ran 200 meters and walked 200 meters till it was done. The 200 meters I ran were fartleks with it going 100 meters at 6 mph, than 50 meters I went up to 6.5 mph, and the last 50 meters I pushed it up to 7 mph.
All this and after 9.3 miles on Monday I am sore. I ate a salad with cottage cheese (remedy 1), mixed peppers, and extra virgin olive oil (remedy 2) for a dressing. Felt great after eating it. Works. Also, using my knee braces I bought that are just compression fit to help them.
Simple and healthier way to stave pain. Happy about that!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
No More Weeks Off
For a month or so I decided it was a good idea to do a hard week and than a week off. This actually was not a good idea, because during the weeks off I got full of energy that I needed to let out and I couldn’t. The hard weeks were good since I rested so long.
Recently in the last 3 weeks, I had a 20 mile week and than 2.1 mile with yoga week. I was going to have more, but was called into work. Also, I signed up for a 5k race for this past Sunday, but took a trip to the Wilderness at the Smokies randomly. Had a blast and got to see my Navy Man.
Yesterday, I became stressed and decided to go run. I planned on a 3 mile run sinceI ate so unhealthy this past weekend and the lack of sleep I received. I ended up running 9 miles. The first 3 miles felt good, but running into 2 pairs of friends at different points I had breaks in my run. The 2nd 3 miles I ran it straight through and pulled out in about 30 minutes. The last 3 miles the runners high couldn’t carry me anymore. I enjoyed it and my endurance did fine, but my knees, hips, and the bottom of my feet made me walk to give them a break.
Great start of the week. Hope tomorrow is strong too.
Recently in the last 3 weeks, I had a 20 mile week and than 2.1 mile with yoga week. I was going to have more, but was called into work. Also, I signed up for a 5k race for this past Sunday, but took a trip to the Wilderness at the Smokies randomly. Had a blast and got to see my Navy Man.
Yesterday, I became stressed and decided to go run. I planned on a 3 mile run sinceI ate so unhealthy this past weekend and the lack of sleep I received. I ended up running 9 miles. The first 3 miles felt good, but running into 2 pairs of friends at different points I had breaks in my run. The 2nd 3 miles I ran it straight through and pulled out in about 30 minutes. The last 3 miles the runners high couldn’t carry me anymore. I enjoyed it and my endurance did fine, but my knees, hips, and the bottom of my feet made me walk to give them a break.
Great start of the week. Hope tomorrow is strong too.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Pushing to the Limits
This week I decided to skip days of rest and just go full throttle. I am nicely surprised what I accomplished and feeling great afterwards.
I ran 2 miles on Monday.
Biked, on a stationary bike, 18 miles on Tuesday.
Ran 9 miles (3 miles on a hilly course in a friend's neighborhood and the last 6 at a park with many hills) on Wednesday.
Ran 2 miles and then did a high intensity hour long strength training session.
Ran one mile with a 5 minute warm up (3 mph), ran at 6 mph for 500 meters, and then cool down for 5 minutes at 3 mph plus Pilates with a body band on Friday.
Today, Saturday, I ran 6 miles in my friend's neighborhood. Actually ran into them and they rode their bikes as I finished my 6 miles. Also, I ran about 4 miles straight with my old record being only 3 miles.
This 20 mile week did not include 29 hours of work at retail, 4 hours subbing, and 5 hours babysitting.
I hope this training week will help me through this upcoming month with my first race, a 5k will occur on the 28th of Feb. and the last race, a 5k will occur on the 27th of March. In the middle of those two I have a 10k race and Half Marathon.
I hope I can hold out and feel strong as I did this week.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Built to Run
If anyone told me I would be running more than a mile or even a mile 10 years ago I would of laughed in their face and walked away. In middle school I decided to wait till my 8th grade year to try out for basketball so I could get use to the new work load. I did not make it, because I apparently did not have enough aggression and they wanted to keep the players from the year before. My friend at this point talked me into track. That was a bad move for me. I wanted it to be social only. I would slack at practice and at competitions gave it my all, but hated it.
Yet I was decent they couldn't make me a runner, because of my hate of the sport. Once again I waited till my second year, of high school this time, to try out for softball. Once again I was not aggressive enough and a freshman and I were neck to neck. She got on, because she could be taught longer. They told me to run track since I was a "very fast runner." I didn't. I disdained the thought of running.
About 6 years later I am running stronger, faster, and for fun. My body has been trained and it goes into automatic pilot. Feeling the strength of my muscles working and knowing they are taking a beating, but still fight for miles and speed. My side hurts, toes tighten, stomach grows sick and yet I still push through. Breathing becomes labored and yet I still sing to myself of songs from my Ipod. My love is dancing, which is where I go after 3 miles and I escape. This helps me stay strong and happy. The dance of my run relieves stress and lets me get away from life. It's a dream land that can set all problems straight.
I guess I was built to run and didn't know it, just had to learn to love it. This week I ran 5 miles (planned on 4, but felt good) tempo run (5.5 mph) with 2 farleks (6 mph) one a minute long on Tuesday. Ran 4 miles tempo run and 2 farleks, both 2 minutes long. Friday ran 2 fast miles with 2 fartleks, one 5 minutes long and the other 2 minutes long. Today, Saturday, I ran a 10k. Ran the first 5k straight without stopping and took maybe a 5 minute stretching break. That 5k was just about 30 minutes. The second 5k was just under 35 minutes. My fastest 10k so far is an hour and 25 minutes, which I shaved off about 20 minutes. Plus, I ran in a new neighborhood with many low grade hills. Feeling strong with 17 miles, strength training sessions, Pilates with body band, and stretching under my belt this week.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Party like a Rock Star
This week was full of first experiences that all turned out making me feel great in the end!
- I learned I could do tempo runs on 5.5 instead of 5 on the treadmill. Use to I would do only minute intervals on 5.5 at the end of the 5 mph interval.
- Ran in the pouring rain for 4 miles.
- Ran without music.
- Ran 7 miles in one day (4 in the a.m. and 3 in the p.m.).
- Learned 3 new balance/ core exercises.
- Learned 3 new yoga positions.
- Ran on 6 mph for 30 seconds at the end of 5.5 intervals.
- Ran more than 11 miles in a week. Actually ran 16 miles instead of my goal of 15.
I accomplished this with working 26.5 hours at my retail job and 4 hours subbing at a pre-school. Also, I went bowling yesterday and bowled 5 games. My average was 157.2 with my lowest being 142 and highest 180. I feel very strong and ready for my next week like this.
If my week of training can leave me feeling like this; I can't wait for the feeling after my next race!
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Playing in the Rain
I have never ran in the rain before not even when it was sprinkling and I actually told my mom that I was not crazy enough to do so. Just recently I have been busy and the weather has been not just my cup of tea to run outside and it was driving me stir mad. Yesterday was going to be my day off, I thought, but was called into work as I was preparing to go run. I was going to run rain or shine. My luck it was a sunny day and near 60s degrees. I didn't get the chance to have my run.
I knew it was going to be raining this morning so I decided no matter what I was going to enjoy the outdoors. When I headed out it was sprinkling and I felt that would be easy to handle. Half way through my first 2 miles it started to pour. I had to put my earbuds in my raincoat pocket and run without music for the first time ever. It was easier than I figured, because I focused on the pitter patter of the rain drops and the rushing water gurgling down to the drains and that kept me pretty happy.
I splashed through a big puddle at the end of my first 2 miles and looped around. Heading back up the hill at the beginning of my course I had to start walking. The water soaking through the coat and shoes everything started to feel a good bit heavier plus my breathing became labored. The last two miles followed the rule of always running or sprinting up the hills, 4 steep long hills and a couple smaller grade ones.
At the end I was cold and soaked to the bone. The experience has left me feeling strong and dedicated. It will happen again, because mom I am that crazy after all.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Found my 1st 5k Results!!!
Out of the 620 women in the race (this does not include the almost 400 men) I placed 74th.
In my age group I was 19th out of 113.
This is great for my first race!
Events I Plan to Conquer this Year
Currently I have ran 3 5ks and I plan to run another one soon to shoot for my personal record (under 28 minutes), which might be done with my cousin.
Next stop is a 10k race.
In March or April I will be planning on running a half marathon with either a few of my cousins, aunts, and uncles or with a group of friends from college.
Then on May 22nd I want to do the Warrior Dash a 5k with eleven obstacles from hell (including fire jumping, repealing down a steep ravine, swimming through a swamp avoiding submerged logs, and more).
To back off the extreme I plan to run the Peachtree Roadrace on the 4th of July.
Than by Christmas time or shortly after a marathon!
Wish me luck!!
P.S. Any support will be appreciated, could be words of encouragement, training tips, coaching, or joining me on my journey and doing an event with me.
Friday, January 8, 2010
What Inspires Me
This week so far I have worked about 20 hours and will finish off the week with about 27 hours. I also went to visit a friend who lives about 2 hours away from me on Wednesday and Thursday.
Tuesday night I watched the Biggest Loser, which in the end is very inspiring for me, on their first night on the ranch they were told to bike a marathon distance and each player does half the work. I made a remark that it shouldn't be that hard. To prove my point the next morning I woke up and got on the bike. Right before an hour hit I was at 16 miles. I decided to get off and get ready for my busy day of traveling. Never say something looks easy unless you have done it or are willing to try it. I had a piece of humble pie and admiration for those contestants who did it because I still had about 10 miles left.
Another factor that has inspired me with my journey has been this amazing new guy in my life who is in the Navy. He is challenging himself to be the best he can be through getting through the rigorous training of the Navy Seal. The one thing that gives me a push is his want to do better and not just get through it. He is stronger and faster than he wants to believe, but yet sets goals and goes for them with little fear. That makes me blessed to know such a person with such caliber, but it helps me do the same. Thanks my Navy man.
On that topic today I decided to shoot for 6 miles, which would be the second time I have accomplished the 10k. I was not worried about time when I had this idea. While, I started I thought I was not going to do it. I ended up pushing through and also getting fire in my spirit. I accomplished it and my 5k was 5 minutes faster than my average time on the tredmill and my 10k was 5 minutes faster than my first try. In the time I did my first 10k I was 300 meters past my goal.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Getting Back on Track
Today in about 34 degrees that dropped to about 32 degrees which it felt like in the mid 20s I ran a 4 miler. I could see my breath during the whole run. Sunny and clear skies can lead to deception. Looks like a warm spring day, but in reality it is a crisp winter day. I had to wait until about 2:30 pm to run so it would be at the warmest. Geared up in my Under Armor cold gear pants and shirt, my Asics all weather jacket (that helps with wind, rain, and snow), my Addida's running shorts, my Thorlos socks, my 1063s, my Ironman Timex watch, and Ionic wrist band thinking I would stay warm. I did, except I wished I had gloves on and a face mask because my nose and ears were frozen. I enjoyed seeing the Robins out looking more beautiful than ever and during my run two women said I made it look warm than they noticed my rosy face. It made me smile.
In the end I am getting back in my groove from that 2 week break because of the cold. I feel so alive on these runs and strong. Also, after that I did a light strength training session to warm up to my normal work out. Eventually I will be back and going towards my goals of a 10-k soon and eventually a marathon.
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