I'm feeling really good, so on to week two. I have two 4-mile + strides (periods of intense running followed by a periods of active recovery) workouts, a 5-mile slow-fast-slow workout and a 10-mile long run on the schedule. Let's go!
Sunday, December 29, 2013
Martian Marathon Training (MMT) Week 2
Last week went really well. For Christmas I got some New Balance minimalist shoes that are made with Gortex, so my feet can stay warm and dry on cold, snowy runs. And I got some Yaktrax to help me keep traction on the ice and snow:
I had a great 7.5-mile run outside, and I'm so glad I have a way to run outside in the winter now!
I'm feeling really good, so on to week two. I have two 4-mile + strides (periods of intense running followed by a periods of active recovery) workouts, a 5-mile slow-fast-slow workout and a 10-mile long run on the schedule. Let's go!
I'm feeling really good, so on to week two. I have two 4-mile + strides (periods of intense running followed by a periods of active recovery) workouts, a 5-mile slow-fast-slow workout and a 10-mile long run on the schedule. Let's go!
Monday, December 23, 2013
Marathon Training Starts!
The Martian Marathon is 16 weeks away, so let the training begin! This first week is pretty straight forward; three 4-mile workouts and an 8-mile long run. Here we go!
Monday, December 9, 2013
Versus
With the cold, dark mornings and my running buddy out with an IT band injury, I've been forced to do my weekday runs inside. In order to kill boredom, I've been experimenting with different paces, forms and techniques. I've been playing around with a heart rate monitor. I've ditched the shoes. Below are my thoughts on the popular running debates, according to my experiences:
Barefoot vs Shoe
Since I started running, I've been a heel striker. I didn't think I was, but after looking at a video of me running and the thumping sound I make it's clear. Not that this is necessarily a bad thing, but I'm starting to feel the pounding in my knees, my hamstrings are always tight and I have zero calves. On a short run, I decided to run on just the balls of my feet...and I could definitely feel it in my calves. The next treadmill run, I took off my shoes. I loved the way it felt! I could instantly tell I was using many more muscles in my lower legs and feet that had been completely ignored. The pressure on my knees was gone. And I felt like I was running with perfect form, really using my legs as springs; coiling up then exploding with force. Unfortunately, after about 1.5-2 miles, I start forming blisters on my toes so I have to quit.
I don't think I'll ever run barefoot outside, especially in the winter!! But I do love the benefits Ive been getting from the short barefoot stints on the treadmill, and they are translating over into running in shoes; I'm depending less on my soft, cushy heels and more on the muscles in my lower legs. Hopefully pretty soon, I'll start seeing some calf definition!
Conclusion: Outdoor runs in shoes, treadmill runs barefoot (for the last two miles).
Outside vs Treadmill
Of course running outside is preferred. Actually covering distance, changes in scenery, breathing the fresh air, the ups and downs of the terrain, the feeling of freedom... this is why I started running! When you run on the treadmill, you can't help but feel like a hamster on a wheel. But there are still many positives that help me to enjoy an indoor workout.
As mentioned above, I can go barefoot. It's easier to force myself to go faster on the treadmill (I don't know if I could make myself run at a 7:30min/mile pace for very long outside). And I like to do pyramids; start at a slow pace, then increase every "lap" until I'm really huffing it for a mile, then drop back down and start again. It's not as easy to maintain the right pacing outside.
Conclusion: Treadmill on the shorter weekday runs, outside for the weekend long runs.
Tech vs Intuition
There is some sweet running technology out there. From watches to monitors to apps to gadgets. You can go crazy anazlying every aspect of your running. You can check your feedback to make sure you're training at the right pace and make sure you're meeting all your goals. I love my Garmin watch that always displays my pace, distance, time, etc. It's cool to use a heart rate monitor to make sure I'm the right zone and to stay just under my lactate threshold on a speed run. I love seeing the miles rack up on RunKeeper.
But sometimes, I just want to run. Especially on long runs. And especially at races. I don't want anything holding me back or pushing me too hard. I just want to listen to my body to do my best and to enjoy the experience.
Conclusion: Use tech to train, but for races and every few runs, just unplug and go.
Barefoot vs Shoe
Since I started running, I've been a heel striker. I didn't think I was, but after looking at a video of me running and the thumping sound I make it's clear. Not that this is necessarily a bad thing, but I'm starting to feel the pounding in my knees, my hamstrings are always tight and I have zero calves. On a short run, I decided to run on just the balls of my feet...and I could definitely feel it in my calves. The next treadmill run, I took off my shoes. I loved the way it felt! I could instantly tell I was using many more muscles in my lower legs and feet that had been completely ignored. The pressure on my knees was gone. And I felt like I was running with perfect form, really using my legs as springs; coiling up then exploding with force. Unfortunately, after about 1.5-2 miles, I start forming blisters on my toes so I have to quit.
I don't think I'll ever run barefoot outside, especially in the winter!! But I do love the benefits Ive been getting from the short barefoot stints on the treadmill, and they are translating over into running in shoes; I'm depending less on my soft, cushy heels and more on the muscles in my lower legs. Hopefully pretty soon, I'll start seeing some calf definition!
Conclusion: Outdoor runs in shoes, treadmill runs barefoot (for the last two miles).
Outside vs Treadmill
Of course running outside is preferred. Actually covering distance, changes in scenery, breathing the fresh air, the ups and downs of the terrain, the feeling of freedom... this is why I started running! When you run on the treadmill, you can't help but feel like a hamster on a wheel. But there are still many positives that help me to enjoy an indoor workout.
As mentioned above, I can go barefoot. It's easier to force myself to go faster on the treadmill (I don't know if I could make myself run at a 7:30min/mile pace for very long outside). And I like to do pyramids; start at a slow pace, then increase every "lap" until I'm really huffing it for a mile, then drop back down and start again. It's not as easy to maintain the right pacing outside.
Conclusion: Treadmill on the shorter weekday runs, outside for the weekend long runs.
Tech vs Intuition
There is some sweet running technology out there. From watches to monitors to apps to gadgets. You can go crazy anazlying every aspect of your running. You can check your feedback to make sure you're training at the right pace and make sure you're meeting all your goals. I love my Garmin watch that always displays my pace, distance, time, etc. It's cool to use a heart rate monitor to make sure I'm the right zone and to stay just under my lactate threshold on a speed run. I love seeing the miles rack up on RunKeeper.
But sometimes, I just want to run. Especially on long runs. And especially at races. I don't want anything holding me back or pushing me too hard. I just want to listen to my body to do my best and to enjoy the experience.
Conclusion: Use tech to train, but for races and every few runs, just unplug and go.
Sunday, November 17, 2013
Kona Chocolate Run
The Kona Chocolate 10K was this morning! Here's me and D (who's running her first race ever!) at packet pick up in the wee morning hours:
And B:
And Dad as well!
It was a decent size race through downtown Plymouth, and the weather was actually great for running (minus a short downpour about halfway through). The rain sure kept it interesting. And the neat houses and parks along the way!
I am so proud of B; he ran the whole 6.2 miles, despite his expectations!
Our time was 1:12:33 with an 11:42 pace. We had negative splits, and sprinted the last leg through the finish line. We had so much fun running together:
Dad also did an awesome job, getting a PR:
And D beat us all!
We got some sweet medals:
(My phone was all foggy from being stuffed in my shirt; here's a different angle with a clear lens):
And the best part: some sweet sweets!
The chocolate tent had hot chocolate, chocolate chip cookies, chocolate frosted brownies, and chocolate dipped marshmallows and rice krispies. MMMMmmmmm! Totally worth running six miles.
 |
| (Dang foggy lens!) |
Monday, November 11, 2013
Pre Training
- Trying to find the right time to run is tough! I've come to the realization that I need to go early morning.
- I did an outside, 6am run today. It was cold and dark, but it was a success. As long as I stay on min sidewalks where there are street lights, don't use headphones and really watch my footing, I feel safe enough. Once the snow and ice get here, it might be a different story!
-My marathon training officially starts in December. I think I'm going to go with the Hanson method... It's running six days a week with more emphasis on speed work and less on cross training. The long runs top out at 16 miles instead of 20. But you run the day after a long run, to get used to running on sore, tired legs. I've heard many great reviews about avoiding the bonk and feeling strong through the finish. If I can fit it in my schedule, I'm going to do it.
- Before that training starts, I've been going on random runs, working on a quicker pace and sprints, etc. I'm working on getting my pace in the eight minute per mile range. I did 8:30 (7mph) for four miles on the treadmill the other day. I ran to and from a meeting with an 8:15 pace (2 miles there, break, 2 miles back). Maybe when I start the training, I'll be faster...?
- I've been having a little knee pain... It's right underneath my left kneecap. It comes and goes, but seems fine enough to keep running on it. Perhaps it's the cold, perhaps I'm compensating for my quads not being strong enough, perhaps I need to put more force in my toes. Either way I'm sure it's totally common, and it's not going to stop me.
-I'm down to 158 lbs. That's a Sunday night weigh in, with no workout and lots of eating. My pre-breakfast, post-workout weight is 153. That's a 50# total loss!
- I did an outside, 6am run today. It was cold and dark, but it was a success. As long as I stay on min sidewalks where there are street lights, don't use headphones and really watch my footing, I feel safe enough. Once the snow and ice get here, it might be a different story!
-My marathon training officially starts in December. I think I'm going to go with the Hanson method... It's running six days a week with more emphasis on speed work and less on cross training. The long runs top out at 16 miles instead of 20. But you run the day after a long run, to get used to running on sore, tired legs. I've heard many great reviews about avoiding the bonk and feeling strong through the finish. If I can fit it in my schedule, I'm going to do it.
- Before that training starts, I've been going on random runs, working on a quicker pace and sprints, etc. I'm working on getting my pace in the eight minute per mile range. I did 8:30 (7mph) for four miles on the treadmill the other day. I ran to and from a meeting with an 8:15 pace (2 miles there, break, 2 miles back). Maybe when I start the training, I'll be faster...?
- I've been having a little knee pain... It's right underneath my left kneecap. It comes and goes, but seems fine enough to keep running on it. Perhaps it's the cold, perhaps I'm compensating for my quads not being strong enough, perhaps I need to put more force in my toes. Either way I'm sure it's totally common, and it's not going to stop me.
-I'm down to 158 lbs. That's a Sunday night weigh in, with no workout and lots of eating. My pre-breakfast, post-workout weight is 153. That's a 50# total loss!
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
New Goal
With the half marathon behind me, can you guess what's up next? Yep... a full marathon. I already have my registration in for the Martian Marathon in Dearborn coming up this April. I have six months to train, and my goal is to do it in under five hours. And my Dad is going to run it with me! It's going to be awesome. Slash horrible... (You know.)
Sunday, October 20, 2013
Detroit Free Press Half Marathon
On Sunday morning, the alarm sounded at 4:30, we rolled out of bed, got dressed and headed out the door. We got down to Detroit at 5:30, and it was already ridiculously crowded. So much traffic! We got to the cross streets and then waited in line for a port-a-potty stop. It was WAY too early, and WAAAYYYYY too cold!
As soon as I was done in the restroom, the first horn sounded. We gathered up our things after I got dressed down and geared up and made our way to the starting line. Wow. Just wow. There were so many people:
Bryce told me that there was probably a mile of people in the chute. I slipped through the barricade and nervously awaited my corral's horn:
I was supposed to be in corral L, but I slipped into D. I just wanted to get started; I was pretty excited! How could you not be, with all the people and lights and music?!?
In waves, we moved forward:
And off we go!
I started really slow; I was taking pictures and watching and listening to the other runners and spectators. I even sent a few texts. I wanted to enjoy and really experience it. I really think the best part was the build up to the Ambassador bridge. It was amazing. Just as I started to cross the sun began to rise on the city:
As I said, I took pictures, but pretty much every one was blurry. That's what happens when you point and shoot on the run I guess. This was a particularly spectacular view of which the photo does no justice:
Soon I had crossed into Canada:
The Canadian fans were the best. They literally lined every foot of the road, and they were cheering like crazy for everyone. Of course, in my mind they were all there and cheering just for me. There were some great posters; "Worst Parade Ever," "Killer clowns are chasing you," "Run like you stole it," "Go random stranger!" "Can you believe you paid for this?!?" and "Your feet hurt because you're kicking so much @$$." Pretty soon we were heading into the tunnel and back to the U.S.:
It was seriously cool. Okay, maybe the tunnel was my favorite part. It was warm and echo-y and just us runners.
But then as I came out of the tunnel, Bryce was there to cheer me on. That was my favorite part!
Yep, between taking selfies and cheering myself on, I run most of the race with my arms up...
There we go!
The next stretch was a little painful. There wasn't anything to look forward to now except the finish line...which was still five to six miles away. I had a powerbar applesauce and some m&ms, put my music on and trucked away. I started to lag behind the 9:55 pacer, and pretty soon they were almost out of sight. Perhaps it was lack of liquid or lack of sleep the night before, but I was just tired. But before I knew it, I was coming back towards downtown and Bryce. I asked him at this point if I could be done now; I was burned out. But I had less than a mile left.
I finally crossed the finish line at 2:13. My Garmin watch dropped off under the bridge, so I don't have my splits, but overall I'm pleased:
My legs were a little shaky at the end but not totally trashed, and I felt pretty good... for which I was glad because I still had to walk a mile to hook back up with Bryce, and then half a mile back to the car. I was however, cold and starving.
When I did meet up with Bryce, I felt a wave of emotions. Relief that it was over, sadness that I didn't get a better time, joy at the accomplishment... but mostly gratitude for my body. I'm awed at what it has accomplished. I have to say, after having three babies and being over weight and feeling old and constantly tired, even running a mile seemed impossible. I thought I would never be able to lose weight or be physically active. I definitely thought I was on the downhill slope. How wrong I was! In just three months, I've lost 45 pounds and run two half marathons. And I'm not done...
When I did meet up with Bryce, I felt a wave of emotions. Relief that it was over, sadness that I didn't get a better time, joy at the accomplishment... but mostly gratitude for my body. I'm awed at what it has accomplished. I have to say, after having three babies and being over weight and feeling old and constantly tired, even running a mile seemed impossible. I thought I would never be able to lose weight or be physically active. I definitely thought I was on the downhill slope. How wrong I was! In just three months, I've lost 45 pounds and run two half marathons. And I'm not done...
Week Seventeen
Exercise:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Rest
Tuesday: Rest
Wednesday: Mid morning 4.3 miles up and down Waldon. 41 min
Thursday: Speed work and walking at the track. 4 miles total. 55 min
Friday: 2 mile walk to and from the Freep Expo in downtown Detroit.
Saturday: A shake down and roll out. Some walking to get the blood flowing.
Sunday: HALF MARATHON
Food: I spent this week putting away carbs and not counting any calories. I wanted to make sure I'd have enough energy for the 13 miles. I had a lot of white carbs, too... to avoid any potential Crohn's issues with high fiber foods.
Poundage: Lost 0# (Keeping a solid 160)
I'll write all about the half in the following post. Stay tuned!
Monday: Rest
Tuesday: Rest
Wednesday: Mid morning 4.3 miles up and down Waldon. 41 min
Thursday: Speed work and walking at the track. 4 miles total. 55 min
Friday: 2 mile walk to and from the Freep Expo in downtown Detroit.
Saturday: A shake down and roll out. Some walking to get the blood flowing.
Sunday: HALF MARATHON
Food: I spent this week putting away carbs and not counting any calories. I wanted to make sure I'd have enough energy for the 13 miles. I had a lot of white carbs, too... to avoid any potential Crohn's issues with high fiber foods.
Poundage: Lost 0# (Keeping a solid 160)
I'll write all about the half in the following post. Stay tuned!
Sunday, October 13, 2013
Week Sixteen
Exercise:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: 5 mile recovery run on Paint Creek. 50 min
Tuesday: Rest
Wednesday: Roller skating!
Thursday: Morning 5.75 miles. 60 min
Friday: Rest
Saturday: 6 miles at Stoney Creek. 60 min
Food: I've figured a few things out about sugar... (and this may be TMI) it gives me the stinkiest gas! And I get headaches. Best to avoid the stuff.
Poundage: Lost 3# (163 to 160)
This was a hard week. I think I'm still recovering from the half last weekend, which probably depleted my glycogen stores. And I had a couple knots in my right quad. I'll have to take this next week of tapering seriously if I want to fully recover in time for the Detroit half!
Monday: 5 mile recovery run on Paint Creek. 50 min
Tuesday: Rest
Wednesday: Roller skating!
Thursday: Morning 5.75 miles. 60 min
Friday: Rest
Saturday: 6 miles at Stoney Creek. 60 min
Food: I've figured a few things out about sugar... (and this may be TMI) it gives me the stinkiest gas! And I get headaches. Best to avoid the stuff.
Poundage: Lost 3# (163 to 160)
This was a hard week. I think I'm still recovering from the half last weekend, which probably depleted my glycogen stores. And I had a couple knots in my right quad. I'll have to take this next week of tapering seriously if I want to fully recover in time for the Detroit half!
Sunday, October 6, 2013
Week Fifteen
Exercise:
Sunday: Brooksie Way 10K (as listed on last week's post)
Monday: Early morning 5 miles with Dawn. 55 min
Tuesday: Morning run with Bryce. 3 miles on Paint Creek. 36 min
Wednesday: 5 miles on Polly Ann trail with Dawn. 55 min
Thursday: Rest
Friday: Rest
Saturday: Frankenmuth Half Marathon; the Bruckelaufe. 130 min (2 hrs 10 min)
Food: Drink lots and LOTS of water!
Poundage: Lost 1# (164 to 163) That's 40 overall!!
My friend Natalie convinced me to run the Frankenmuth Half as part of my training. I was planning on running the first 9 miles then walking the remainder, but I ended up just running the whole race and doing so with 10 minute miles!
It was more of a trial and error run to see what running a 13.1 mile race was all about and to prepare myself for the hype and process to look forward to in Detroit. I'm really glad I ran it: I had a great time and learned a few things that will help me succeed in two weeks.
#1: I can totally do it! At the beginning, my goal was to cross the finish line. After a bit, my goal was to run the whole race. Now, I have a time to beat!
#2: Don't over hydrate the day/night before. I ended up having to stop and wait in line for a potty break.
#3: Don't stress over not getting sleep the night before. I only got 5 hours (thank you, Charlie), but still performed great.
#4: Wait for the crowd to go through the starting gate, then take off. It's much more fun to pass people than to be passed. And it's less crowded.
#5: Start slow! Don't let excitement and adrenaline push you. Energy saved at the beginning really will be available at the end.
#6: No need to get water at aid stations. I made a mess trying to drink while running, and was only able to take a tiny sip. I just need to have a little snack (I really liked an applesauce pouch from powerbar) at about mile 9.
#7: No heavy fiber the day/night before. For breakfast I had a banana and a Clif bar an hour before the race, that was perfect.
#8: Post race procedure: Drink A LOT of water. Walk around. Ibuprofen. Ice bath, then hot bath. Lots of carb snacks. And now is the time to get some sleep, if possible.
#9: Having a loved one cheering you on makes all the difference! Especially if they can join you for a few strides:
Monday: Early morning 5 miles with Dawn. 55 min
Tuesday: Morning run with Bryce. 3 miles on Paint Creek. 36 min
Wednesday: 5 miles on Polly Ann trail with Dawn. 55 min
Thursday: Rest
Friday: Rest
Saturday: Frankenmuth Half Marathon; the Bruckelaufe. 130 min (2 hrs 10 min)
Food: Drink lots and LOTS of water!
Poundage: Lost 1# (164 to 163) That's 40 overall!!
My friend Natalie convinced me to run the Frankenmuth Half as part of my training. I was planning on running the first 9 miles then walking the remainder, but I ended up just running the whole race and doing so with 10 minute miles!
#1: I can totally do it! At the beginning, my goal was to cross the finish line. After a bit, my goal was to run the whole race. Now, I have a time to beat!
#2: Don't over hydrate the day/night before. I ended up having to stop and wait in line for a potty break.
#3: Don't stress over not getting sleep the night before. I only got 5 hours (thank you, Charlie), but still performed great.
#4: Wait for the crowd to go through the starting gate, then take off. It's much more fun to pass people than to be passed. And it's less crowded.
#5: Start slow! Don't let excitement and adrenaline push you. Energy saved at the beginning really will be available at the end.
#6: No need to get water at aid stations. I made a mess trying to drink while running, and was only able to take a tiny sip. I just need to have a little snack (I really liked an applesauce pouch from powerbar) at about mile 9.
#7: No heavy fiber the day/night before. For breakfast I had a banana and a Clif bar an hour before the race, that was perfect.
#8: Post race procedure: Drink A LOT of water. Walk around. Ibuprofen. Ice bath, then hot bath. Lots of carb snacks. And now is the time to get some sleep, if possible.
#9: Having a loved one cheering you on makes all the difference! Especially if they can join you for a few strides:
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Week Fourteen
Exercise:
Sunday: Rest day. Still recovering from sore legs.
Monday: 5.25 miles around the neighborhoods. Felt great! 54 min
Tuesday: Rest
Wednesday: 5.25 miles with Dawn on the Paint Creek Trail. Beautiful! 54 min
Thursday: 3.5 miles with Bryce at Spencer Park in Troy. 44 min
Friday: 9 miles on Paint Creek Trail. Making up for missing last week's long run. 91min
Saturday: Rest
Sunday: Brooksie Way 10K Race!
Food: With all the weight I've lost and all the running, I've been pretty lax about my food. Still all healthy foods, but I've increased portions a bit and upped the carbs and protein. Once running season dies down, hopefully I'll be able to dial the portions back down, too!
Poundage: Lost 3# (167 to 164)
Brooksie Way was a ton of fun and a really great race. I made a goal of completing in under an hour, and I beat that goal as I reached 6.2 miles in 59:08 minutes. My average pace per mile was 9:46 minutes, and I actually ended up running 6.5 miles since I took the outer edge of the course to avoid crowds. So my time chip clocked me at 1:02:24, but it was for an extra quarter mile!
I'm so glad Bryce and Dad did it with me and so thankful for Mom as she made it possible by watching the kids. There'll be a whole, fun post about it up on The Dial Log soon.
Monday: 5.25 miles around the neighborhoods. Felt great! 54 min
Tuesday: Rest
Wednesday: 5.25 miles with Dawn on the Paint Creek Trail. Beautiful! 54 min
Thursday: 3.5 miles with Bryce at Spencer Park in Troy. 44 min
Friday: 9 miles on Paint Creek Trail. Making up for missing last week's long run. 91min
Saturday: Rest
Sunday: Brooksie Way 10K Race!
Food: With all the weight I've lost and all the running, I've been pretty lax about my food. Still all healthy foods, but I've increased portions a bit and upped the carbs and protein. Once running season dies down, hopefully I'll be able to dial the portions back down, too!
Poundage: Lost 3# (167 to 164)
Brooksie Way was a ton of fun and a really great race. I made a goal of completing in under an hour, and I beat that goal as I reached 6.2 miles in 59:08 minutes. My average pace per mile was 9:46 minutes, and I actually ended up running 6.5 miles since I took the outer edge of the course to avoid crowds. So my time chip clocked me at 1:02:24, but it was for an extra quarter mile!
I'm so glad Bryce and Dad did it with me and so thankful for Mom as she made it possible by watching the kids. There'll be a whole, fun post about it up on The Dial Log soon.
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Week Thirteen
Exercise:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Early morning run with Dawn around Keatington; 4.5 miles. 48 min
Tuesday: Another early morning 4.5 miles. Went on the Polly Ann trail. 50 min
Wednesday: 3 miles on the elliptical. 30 min
Thursday: Strength train: Tabata squats, planks, rope undulation & sit ups. Lifting.
Friday: Recovery run up Bald Mountain, 3 miles. 37 min
Saturday: Rest day. So sore...
Food: Brush teeth at 7pm. Keeps me from snacking late!
Poundage: Lost 2# (169 to 167)
I didn't get my long run in this week. =( I'm so bummed about it!!! But I am still SO SORE! I know I would have wrecked my legs if I tried to get 8 miles in... There's always next week, I guess.
Monday: Early morning run with Dawn around Keatington; 4.5 miles. 48 min
Tuesday: Another early morning 4.5 miles. Went on the Polly Ann trail. 50 min
Wednesday: 3 miles on the elliptical. 30 min
Thursday: Strength train: Tabata squats, planks, rope undulation & sit ups. Lifting.
Friday: Recovery run up Bald Mountain, 3 miles. 37 min
Saturday: Rest day. So sore...
Food: Brush teeth at 7pm. Keeps me from snacking late!
Poundage: Lost 2# (169 to 167)
I didn't get my long run in this week. =( I'm so bummed about it!!! But I am still SO SORE! I know I would have wrecked my legs if I tried to get 8 miles in... There's always next week, I guess.
Sunday, September 15, 2013
Week Twelve
Exercise:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: 4.5 miles with Dawn on the Silverbell loop. 53 min
Tuesday: 3 miles on the elliptical. 36 min
Wednesday: Rest
Thursday: Birthday Run!! 7 miles around Orion Oaks. 70 min (that's a ten minute mile!!!)
Friday: Rest
Saturday: Up to OU with Bryce and Dad; 3.75 miles. 50 some minutes
Food: Don't even ask... It was my birthday, so it was a day with no limits! Then there was LuLu's birthday the day before...and then LuLu's party on Saturday...
Poundage: Lost 1# (170 to 169)
Monday: 4.5 miles with Dawn on the Silverbell loop. 53 min
Tuesday: 3 miles on the elliptical. 36 min
Wednesday: Rest
Thursday: Birthday Run!! 7 miles around Orion Oaks. 70 min (that's a ten minute mile!!!)
Friday: Rest
Saturday: Up to OU with Bryce and Dad; 3.75 miles. 50 some minutes
Food: Don't even ask... It was my birthday, so it was a day with no limits! Then there was LuLu's birthday the day before...and then LuLu's party on Saturday...
Poundage: Lost 1# (170 to 169)
Sunday, September 8, 2013
Week Eleven
Exercise:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Ran 4 miles over on OU campus with Bryce. 49 min
Tuesday: Rest
Wednesday: Early morning 4 miles on the track. 43 min
Thursday: Impromptu run/walk with Bryce over at Stoney Creek for 7 miles. Ran 4, walked 3. Took around an hour and a half.
Friday: Rest
Saturday: 6 miles on OU campus with Dad and Bryce. 65 min
Food: Just keep it up, I guess...
Poundage: Lost 2# (172 to 170)
Monday: Ran 4 miles over on OU campus with Bryce. 49 min
Tuesday: Rest
Wednesday: Early morning 4 miles on the track. 43 min
Thursday: Impromptu run/walk with Bryce over at Stoney Creek for 7 miles. Ran 4, walked 3. Took around an hour and a half.
Friday: Rest
Saturday: 6 miles on OU campus with Dad and Bryce. 65 min
Food: Just keep it up, I guess...
Poundage: Lost 2# (172 to 170)
Sunday, September 1, 2013
Week Ten
Exercise:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: 4 miles on the track. 42 min
Tuesday: Rain and very busy. Took the day off.
Wednesday: 4 miles on the track. So hot and humid, a really hard run. 43 min
Thursday: Cross training: 130 flights of stairs on the stair master, 30 min. Lifted weights and Tabata rope undulation and sit ups.
Friday: Rest
Saturday: Long run, 6.2 miles. Ran the 10K Brooksie Way loop on OU. 69 min
Food: I've been pretty happy with the weight loss, so I guess my diet's been good, but I need to recommit to not eating late. Also, listening to my stomach. Eat if it's hungry, don't eat if it's not.
Poundage: Lost 3# (175 to 172)
I was a little nervous coming into my long run this weekend, as six miles is the farthest I've ever run. To top it off, OU campus is pretty hilly. But it ended up being a great run, and Mom and Dad came out, too to make it even more fun. I love that we're all getting into running because it really is a lot easier to stay motivated. Bryce even got out and ran four miles yesterday!
I've also added another goal to my bucket list this week: Swapfoot 4 Mile. We went yesterday to check it out, and it looked like such a blast!! This summer has been all about half marathon training, but next summer I want to do some fun and crazy races like this one. Tough Mudder, Warrior Dash, Undead Unleashed, Color Me Rad, etc.
Monday: 4 miles on the track. 42 min
Tuesday: Rain and very busy. Took the day off.
Wednesday: 4 miles on the track. So hot and humid, a really hard run. 43 min
Thursday: Cross training: 130 flights of stairs on the stair master, 30 min. Lifted weights and Tabata rope undulation and sit ups.
Friday: Rest
Saturday: Long run, 6.2 miles. Ran the 10K Brooksie Way loop on OU. 69 min
Food: I've been pretty happy with the weight loss, so I guess my diet's been good, but I need to recommit to not eating late. Also, listening to my stomach. Eat if it's hungry, don't eat if it's not.
Poundage: Lost 3# (175 to 172)
I was a little nervous coming into my long run this weekend, as six miles is the farthest I've ever run. To top it off, OU campus is pretty hilly. But it ended up being a great run, and Mom and Dad came out, too to make it even more fun. I love that we're all getting into running because it really is a lot easier to stay motivated. Bryce even got out and ran four miles yesterday!
I've also added another goal to my bucket list this week: Swapfoot 4 Mile. We went yesterday to check it out, and it looked like such a blast!! This summer has been all about half marathon training, but next summer I want to do some fun and crazy races like this one. Tough Mudder, Warrior Dash, Undead Unleashed, Color Me Rad, etc.
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Sunday, August 25, 2013
Week Nine
Exercise:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Early morning run; 4 miles on the track. 42 min
Tuesday: Busy, busy day. No workout.
Wednesday: Rest...again...
Thursday: 2.25 miles on the elliptical, 25 min. Tabata squats.
Friday: 4 miles on the track. The first two Dawn joined me. 45 min
Saturday: 2nd Chance 5K Race. 37 min
Food: A couple bumps this week. Relief Society party tripped me up! Then Bryce bringing home goodies from work. But totally worth it!
Poundage: Lost 1# (176 to 175)
I switched up the weeks a little bit to accomodate the 5K I wanted to run. Bryce even ran it with me! It was his first ever race, and he did a great job. Read more about it on The Dial Log.
Monday: Early morning run; 4 miles on the track. 42 min
Tuesday: Busy, busy day. No workout.
Wednesday: Rest...again...
Thursday: 2.25 miles on the elliptical, 25 min. Tabata squats.
Friday: 4 miles on the track. The first two Dawn joined me. 45 min
Saturday: 2nd Chance 5K Race. 37 min
Food: A couple bumps this week. Relief Society party tripped me up! Then Bryce bringing home goodies from work. But totally worth it!
Poundage: Lost 1# (176 to 175)
I switched up the weeks a little bit to accomodate the 5K I wanted to run. Bryce even ran it with me! It was his first ever race, and he did a great job. Read more about it on The Dial Log.
Sunday, August 18, 2013
Week Eight
Exercise:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Rain...Ran 4 miles on the treadmill. 43 min
Tuesday: 2 miles on the elliptical, 21 min. Tabata burpees, squats & planks
Wednesday: Ran 4 miles on the track. 46 min
Thursday: Rest (though is ten hours canning applesauce really rest...?)
Friday: Stretch and Yoga. 30 min
Saturday: 5 mile run up to the library and back. 58 min
Food: Drink lots and LOTS of water!! Whenever I forget to get in enough water, my whole body feels swollen; yuck! Not to mention I need it to make Charlie's milk.
Poundage: Lost 3# (179 to 176)
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Rain...Ran 4 miles on the treadmill. 43 min
Tuesday: 2 miles on the elliptical, 21 min. Tabata burpees, squats & planks
Wednesday: Ran 4 miles on the track. 46 min
Thursday: Rest (though is ten hours canning applesauce really rest...?)
Friday: Stretch and Yoga. 30 min
Saturday: 5 mile run up to the library and back. 58 min
Food: Drink lots and LOTS of water!! Whenever I forget to get in enough water, my whole body feels swollen; yuck! Not to mention I need it to make Charlie's milk.
Poundage: Lost 3# (179 to 176)
Sunday, August 11, 2013
Week Seven
Exercise: Basically a repeat of last week.
Monday: Ran 3 miles on track. 35 min. Felt great!
Tuesday: Cross trained on the stair master for 2 miles and lifted. 45 min
Wednesday: Rain--we spent the whole day at the children's museum.
Thursday: Ran 3 miles on the track. 33 min
Friday: Pilates video, 45 min.
Saturday: Ran down Waldon to Lapeer, 2 miles there, 2 miles back.
Sunday: Rest
Food: Try to really enjoy and savor my meals. Slow down chewing and taste everything.
Poundage: Lost 3# (182 to 179)
One of the hardest things about training is finding the time. Thankfully Bryce is just as committed to my goal, and he supports me leaving the kids behind with him so that I can train.
Monday: Ran 3 miles on track. 35 min. Felt great!
Tuesday: Cross trained on the stair master for 2 miles and lifted. 45 min
Wednesday: Rain--we spent the whole day at the children's museum.
Thursday: Ran 3 miles on the track. 33 min
Friday: Pilates video, 45 min.
Saturday: Ran down Waldon to Lapeer, 2 miles there, 2 miles back.
Sunday: Rest
Food: Try to really enjoy and savor my meals. Slow down chewing and taste everything.
Poundage: Lost 3# (182 to 179)
One of the hardest things about training is finding the time. Thankfully Bryce is just as committed to my goal, and he supports me leaving the kids behind with him so that I can train.
Wednesday, August 7, 2013
Running Shirt
I need this shirt:
Or perhaps this one:
My average mile pace (according to RunKeeper) is 11:30, so yeah... kinda slow. Of course, that's just on my runs till now, which haven't been longer than 4 miles. Once I start getting up into the bigger numbers, that pace might increase...
Sunday, August 4, 2013
Week Six
Exercise: This week was the start of my twelve week training:
I settled on this one I found online because it included cross training, long runs (the longest of which is 10 miles), days of rest, a 5K and 10K that coincide perfectly with races I found, and it fits in with Sunday being a day of rest (except on race days...). I just move all the days back one; so the yellow is Sunday, the green is Monday and so on. This is what week one looks like:
And this is what I did:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Flip flopped with Tuesday. Cross trained, 5 miles on the elliptical. One hour
Tuesday: 3 mile run on the track. 34 min.
Wednesday: Sick day. Over did it...
Thursday: Another day off. Gotta get over this cold/sinus infection!
Friday: 3 miles on the elliptical. 35 min.
Saturday: 4 miles on the treadmill. 45 min.
Food: Eat some carbs. Try to eat a little something within half hour of finishing a run.
Poundage: Lost 2# (184 to 182)
This was a hard week. I realized that I haven't been eating and sleeping enough for training. I also think my milk supply is dwindling...and I'm NOT going to put Charlie on formula just so I can lose a few pounds and run more. I needed to step back and make some changes, and getting sick helped me do just that. I need to add more nutritious calories to my diet so I can run hard and still nurse Charlie as much as he needs. But there's no need to push it! I still have 11 weeks till race time, and even then, my only goal is to cross the finish line.
One of the things I really like about this training calendar is that I'm allowed three days off a week. So I was able to be sick and still get all my exercise in. It was mostly indoors, and yes, it is much easier to run on the treadmill, but I wanted to ease back into it while I still have this pressure in my face. One of the best things about treadmill running is that it keeps pace for me. If I could just stay at a steady pace outdoors, I know I could just run forever!
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Flip flopped with Tuesday. Cross trained, 5 miles on the elliptical. One hour
Tuesday: 3 mile run on the track. 34 min.
Wednesday: Sick day. Over did it...
Thursday: Another day off. Gotta get over this cold/sinus infection!
Friday: 3 miles on the elliptical. 35 min.
Saturday: 4 miles on the treadmill. 45 min.
Food: Eat some carbs. Try to eat a little something within half hour of finishing a run.
Poundage: Lost 2# (184 to 182)
This was a hard week. I realized that I haven't been eating and sleeping enough for training. I also think my milk supply is dwindling...and I'm NOT going to put Charlie on formula just so I can lose a few pounds and run more. I needed to step back and make some changes, and getting sick helped me do just that. I need to add more nutritious calories to my diet so I can run hard and still nurse Charlie as much as he needs. But there's no need to push it! I still have 11 weeks till race time, and even then, my only goal is to cross the finish line.
One of the things I really like about this training calendar is that I'm allowed three days off a week. So I was able to be sick and still get all my exercise in. It was mostly indoors, and yes, it is much easier to run on the treadmill, but I wanted to ease back into it while I still have this pressure in my face. One of the best things about treadmill running is that it keeps pace for me. If I could just stay at a steady pace outdoors, I know I could just run forever!
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Sprints
The other day we took the family over to the track, and we took turns watching the kids and running (I would run a lap while Bryce hung out, then I'd stay with kids while Bryce ran a lap). I told Bryce I was going to sprint the last quarter lap each time I ran.
When we were packing up to go back home, he questioned me in all seriousness, "I thought you were going to sprint at the end of your laps?"
And then I found this one, which I also think is appropriate:
And while it's true that I probably run more like an elephant than a quarter horse, at least I'm out there!
When we were packing up to go back home, he questioned me in all seriousness, "I thought you were going to sprint at the end of your laps?"
um...
"I did." I thought I was running like the wind. I could race a cheetah and win. Apparently, an on-looker wouldn't have guessed. It made me think of this picture I've seen on Pinterest:
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