Running into trouble...week of 11/30/08

[Jolt]

This running forum has been slow lately! I went for a trail run this afternoon--I am up to 2 miles at a time (next run I get to go up to 2.5--yahoo!) so I did my two miles and then walked for a bit before turning around to go back to where I started. It was snowing! I only saw one other person on the trail, which was surprising. This run was a lot better than my last trail run two weeks ago--I felt much less clumsy and had no aches and pains, IT band or otherwise. Maybe the new shoes helped since they fit better, and plus I had been running more and getting some confidence back. It felt really good and I think I needed it--I'm in a very good mood this afternoon! The only thing that could have been better was when WALKING back, I was jumping over some especially squishy mud, my foot slid out from under me because I stepped on some leaves that were on top of a wet rock, and I landed right in the mud :rolleyes:. I guess I'm not back to 100% agility yet...or maybe I should just blame that one on the fact that the trail is under a thick layer of leaves this time of year so it's harder to see where you're about to put your foot (and they can be slippery too). How's everyone else's running going?

[ASammy1]

I have just recently started running and am taking it very slowly. My goal is to run an 8k in March and then a half marathon in September.

I am following the couch to 5k training program on coolrunning.com to start and am currently on week 2.

Here is my current training schedule which includes my cycling.

Sun- morning yoga for core, cool running program in the evening
Mon- cycle cadence training
Tues- cool running program
Wed- cycle hill training
Thurs- cool running program
Fri- off
Sat- group cycle ride

With this schedule I should have no problem completing the 5k in March, my first century in June, and the 1/2 marathon in September.

The schedule is a bit grueling (for me) because of my job, but I think I can get it done.

[michelem]

Thanks for getting this started Jolt. Sounds like you had quite the adventuresome run/walk! :eek:

ASammy1, I like the looks of your program. I've been concentrating on running to the neglect of cycling, and I sure miss my bike! :( I plan to hop back on at the first of the year -- yay! :D

Well, as I posted in another thread, I did a 10k on Thanksgiving morning, which was fun if not a challenge due to all the walkers with dogs, baby strollers, kids, etc. Yesterday I about 9 miles, and it was pleasant one minus the tummy cramps (very gassy for some reason, despite eating very low residue as of late).

I am entering major taper mode and feeling like a slug. I have 6 x 1/4 mile speedwork scheduled for Tuesday and a 3 mile run at predicted marathon pace on Thursday and then the actual marathon is on Sunday. I know this is the way it should be, but seeing as my last run over 20 miles was over 3 weeks ago and quite the bust I am getting very nervous. It's going to be hard to concentrate on work this week, especially with two full days of video conferencing coming up -- bleh.

I had my kinesio taping removed yesterday and I'm going to see how it goes on Tuesday's run without it. No matter how that goes, I'm going to get re-taped before the race. Better safe than sorry, in my opinion.

Keep the updates coming! I'll need to be living vicariously through you all this next week. :p

[emily_in_nc]

I haven't been posting since my runs have all been on the treadmill lately. Boring but steady, 2x a week. Did 3.25 miles running, .25 walking today. Just keeping myself in shape until I have the time & decent weather for some outdoor runs...

[teigyr]

I've been running 22-ish miles per week with my long run being 10 miles. I'm working on form and have been going to physical therapy because I am lopsided :eek::D:eek: It's actually pretty great because all those theories I had as far as why necklaces went crooked on me are confirmed. I'm working on the muscles I need to work on and I'm actually getting faster and with less fatigue.

Michelem, what race are you doing? Best of luck! I am sure you will be fine and all those energy reserves that you're building up will kick in.

My next marathon isn't until June. I'm feeling kind of wistful, actually, but am trying to put my time to good use. A co-worker ran a really awesome half-marathon this past weekend and it was her first distance race. I'm trying to convince her that 26 isn't THAT far out of reach...so maybe I'm using my time for evil also :o

[katluvr]

Hello!
2 weeks have passed since my 1/2 marathon, I then had a cold and I have been a slug. I ran twice last week... a easy 30 minute "jog" and then teh Turkey Trot (5K). I have NOT been on the bike or doing anything else. Just a slug!
Today & tomorrow I am scheduled for a short, easy, w/ some increased pace interval runs. I MUST do them.
I find it hard when I don't have a major race planned and keeping up w/ the training. Then again, this should be my month of rest. Problem is, resting (and eating) TOOOOOOO much!
Keep up the good work ladies!

[alpinerabbit]

I haven't been good - what with a head cold and recurring irritations along my thigh.

I finally visited the sports doc.

She examined me and diagnosed mostly severely hardened muscles (front of thighs, shins, butt), mediocre flexibility and weak core.

She prescribed a PT regimen starting out with manual therapy turning into building core strength and a running program (they'll even go to the track with me). Since I'll be paying this out of my pocket I know what I want for Xmas: PT money.
Heck, my core strength is already so much better. She should have seen me before the past 3 months of yoga.:p

[Urlea]

Ugh. I'm starting to get frustrated. :( Especially after watching "Spirit of the Marathon" today and really wanting to get out and run.

I have been sick since Nov. 11th! Because I'm stubborn I still got about 5miles of running in each week since then (there were a few days I felt okay-ish), but now that I'm coughing enough to warrant sleeping on the couch at night to avoid waking my husband I just can't run. Sigh.

Not sure if I should waste the money and go into the Dr. again. I went a few weeks ago and there wasn't anything they could do to help.

Anyway. For those of you who are able get out there and run for me!

Congrats to those of you who made it out for a Turkey Trot!! :)

[michelem]

Completed last night's speedwork with no problems (although, I did crank it down from 7:30/mile to 8:00/mile pace for the last intervals). I rolled on the foam roller afterward and had no pain the right IT band at all -- yay! :D Actually, the left had a few tight spots this time, which is different. I'm still going to get re-taped for the race. I don't want to push my luck.

Now I'm starting to obsess -- where will I stow my ID's? Will I be able to hydrate properly using the aid stations (I've carried my own on all my training runs as well as 1/2 marathons . . . don't need any on 10k's . . . )? How will I keep warm and calm during the 1-1/2 hrs. prior to race start (the bus leaves at 5:00 - 5:15am and is only about 15 minutes away from the start -- the return trip home is more like 45 minutes)? Will my tummy cooperate? I'm already starting to eat low residue and hope that doesn't compromise me nutritionally. And on and on and on and on . . .


teigyr, it is the California International Marathon on December 7. Keep us updated on the results of your physical therapy -- sounds like you're on the right track! :)

emily_in_nc, treadmill runs count! Maybe boring, but they count! :p

katluvr, maybe you can take an "active rest" month? Lay of the running and incorporate some lower impact activities, such as CYCLING??? :p Or maybe swimming if you have access to an indoor pool. Yoga. Etc. Be gentle with yourself, okay?:o

alpinerabbit, I hear you on the money for PT! I'm in the same boat. But, it's necessary. Keep us updated on your results. I'm interested to hear what they have you do and how it affects you.

Urlea, probably the last thing you want to hear, but I bet taking some time off and resting will do you wonders. My dh came down with what sounds to be a close cousin of your "plague monkey" (yes, I took a peek at your blog). Same thing that his strep test came back negative. He took time off work, plus a weekend and Veteran's Day in there as well, so a total of 6 days rest. During that time he slept as much as possible (kind of tough with all the drainage he was having down into the back of his throat) and hydrated lots. He had a slight setback over the weekend when we had company and he pushed himself too much. He even skipped his most favorite sport, basketball, so I knew he was really sick. However, he completely recovered in that time and I have a sneaking suspicion that it would have dragged out much longer had he not taken the time off and rested. Anyway, just my two cents . . . Hang in there! ;)

[Jolt]

I did my first 2.5 mile run tonight and had a little pain near the outside of the left knee during the last few minutes...it wasn't quite in the IT band area (slightly in front of it) but radiated around to the back a bit and it was a real "oh, #@*#!" moment given that I remembered having some of that pain along with the IT band issue on one of the hikes I did at the end of the summer. So I got home and was stretching, and decided to look in this trigger-point book I have (which I highly recommend--it's "The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook" by Clair Davies; it has a few off-the-wall things in it but the trigger point stuff itself is great) and see if I could find anything that might explain that pain since it didn't seem to be the IT band. Lo and behold, there was something about a spot in the vastus lateralis right near the knee that can cause pain in that area, and when I went poking around there it did not feel good! We'll see if working on that area keeps that particular pain from happening next time I run...

[kacie tri-ing]

michelem --are you getting excited! This weekend is your big day right?!?!

I ran 6 last night. I find my muscles are taking a couple miles to warm up now until they start to really feel good :-(

I have a 7 miler planned tonight.

I started working with a coach. It is my DH's coach. Basically, he writes my workouts and answers all of my questions. When I switch from training for the disney marathon to training for the new olreans half ironman in january, he is going to help me with my swimming too.....

He does all heart rate training, so I got the polar F6. Then I tried to wear it and it hurt! I am going to have to figure out how to add it without the chaffing! I went ahead and took it off after half a mile, because I did not want it to actually chaffe and I would not be able to use it at all until I healed. Any suggestions?

[OakLeaf]

I was sick and off all last week. This week I've been on the road.

The air in NYC was much clearer than it had ever been when I'd been there in the past... but I didn't pack my running shoes. :mad: I wasn't expecting to be able to run, so I only brought my indoor shoes and had to work out on the elliptical machines. Guess that run in Central Park will have to wait for another time.

I've run the last two days, but I know I'm not going to be able to work out tomorrow, so I'm trying to figure out whether or not to run today. Probably will take an easy lope.

Kacie, what kind of sports bra do you wear? My Garmin HR straps do best under a wide, flat band. My favorite bra is the shiny Champion (http://www.championusa.com/CHAMPION/Products/Women-Champion/Women_ShopByCategory-Champion/Women_SportsBras-Champion/Women_SportsBras_Bestsellers-Champion/CH2893.aspx). (They seem to change the name of that bra every couple of years, but the product is the same.) The band holds the HR strap nicely and doesn't chafe.

Then I know there are some bras that are made specifically to go with Polar HRMs but I don't know the brand. Nike, maybe?

Yikes Urlea, that doesn't sound good. After all this time it's possible you have a secondary bacterial infection?

Anyway, hoping everyone sick or on IR feels better soon. Keep your fingers crossed that I don't catch the flu from my dad. I just can't get sick right now, I can't, especially not the flu. :eek:

[katluvr]

Ok I DID run last night. Headed out for a 3 miler w/ some short, increased pace intervals. I underestimated how cool it was. I was cold the whole first mile for "warm up" so I ran a bit toooo fast, was still cold and got a side stitched. So a walked a bit and turned about and ran slowly (w/ side stitch) home. I did feel better by mile 2 and probably just took that long to warm up and get into the groove. But I did nto push it and called it a night. 2 miles is better than nothing.
Skipping out of work at noon today to hit the gym and TM and get my 3 miler in. I know once I do it...I'll feel better.

Yep, I need to get back to cycling...This month my schedule is just really wacky. As we fly out tomorrow for Vegas and the Great Santa Run. Yes, I will be running a 5k in a Santa Suit!

Kacie,
Having a coach and training plan has been great for me. I, too, will be transition from a 1/2 martahon training, to biking (multiple 2 day charity rides w/hills) and hopefully my FIRST tri by the end of summer. I could never figure it out without a coach. Some folks can...not me. Plus keeps me honest. I did drop 10 minutes off my last 1/2 PR to a my most recent 1/2 marathon.

Of course my coach said this was a "rest month" and that if I didn't feel like doing the run or whatever it was ok to rest and skip it. Once I get that permission it is like a free for all! But Jan will be here soon enough and I'll be focus and really back on my TP.

Happy running to all!
K

[alpinerabbit]

alpinerabbit, I hear you on the money for PT! I'm in the same boat. But, it's necessary. Keep us updated on your results. I'm interested to hear what they have you do and how it affects you.

sure will - maybe I'll start my own thread.

BTW I was never in pain but the nagging ache was making me paranoid - afraid that my tendons might start breaking down with chronic inflammation. And that I might need to take oral anti-inflammatories or even better, injections to stop these once and for all. So I asked if it would be a good idea taking some oral diclofenac and the doc said this wasn’t a true inflammatory reaction.
So, since I can bear the pain (it’s not even pain), I’m not taking anything.

Boy, am I looking forward to some release. Even if it sends me jumping to the ceiling (had some previously so the jumping bit is in my future).

[Karma007]

Okay, guess I'm here too. I'm a returning runner (I stopped 3 years ago, after a stress fracture left me in crutches for months). I took up cycling and never looked back. But then my darling (and slightly roundish) bf decided he wants to take up running. I can't let him do it alone, so now I'll be doing a bit of running to support him, and compliment my cycling. I have shiny new sneakers, my old training logs, and a very fast dog.

[eclectic]

I can't believe I am posting on a running thread :eek:

I am a runner wannabe. Mainly to finish sprint tris. I ran enough to do that 2 years ago but then quit last year. I am back at it as of this fall.

Sooooo to make a long story longer - I had done the c 2 5k program and it worked well - I can now do a slow 3 miles. :D

THEN I got on runnersworld.com and printed off a 5 k training program. That is what I am working on now - I am on week three. 2 miles, 3 miles, 4 miles easy pace. Last week was 2, 2, 3

Due to cold and ice I am running on a 1/8 mile indoor track. (I not only dislike the treadmill - I DESPISE it)

On Saturday they had an outdoor fun run for the Red Cross. I was able to complete 1.5 miles w/ no problem (slow - 16 min for 1.5 BUT I did pass people and they were running!)

Some ladies I know were running too. They are about my age w/in 7 years (I will be 52 this month) they said their goal was to finish 1/2 marathon this spring. I thought if they can do it I can do it :D Soooooo that is the new goal beyond a sprint tri AND it has bumped my sprint tri to an Olympic length - it is always the running that holds me back.

I am not a natural runner who enjoys it. I never ran my first mile until I was 46 years old. (last week I swam 2 miles 2 days in a row, running 2 miles about killed me)

My aerobic base is pretty good from swimming and cycling but my muscles and joints really complain.

I hope my body holds up to do this, I have accepted the fact that I will repeat weeks if necessary and Runnersworld explained how to modify the pace and speedwork for beginners

One great thing is I can do the same distance and speed and my HR has finally dropped!

I will be a runner, I will be a runner, I will be a runner, I will be a ru. . . . .

[katluvr]

Welcome Eclectic!
I, too, was never a runner until 4 years ago. Hated running. Always out of breath. So I was in my early 40's when I started. 5 years ago started cycling and lost weight. Then SO started running 5Ks..and I watched. I thought I could either say on teh side line watching, or get out there and run. And that is what I do! I like the longer distances, cuz I am slow. Just PR'ed in my last 1/2 Marathon.
Most folks start out wrong by running tooo fast, so just keep it slow. Yep I love races where folks "run" past me, but I pass later when they are walking. I think is you just slow you pace a bit you can run teh whole thing!
So welcome to the running thread. I myself need to get back to the biking thread and this year...a TRI!

[Jolt]

sure will - maybe I'll start my own thread.

BTW I was never in pain but the nagging ache was making me paranoid - afraid that my tendons might start breaking down with chronic inflammation. And that I might need to take oral anti-inflammatories or even better, injections to stop these once and for all. So I asked if it would be a good idea taking some oral diclofenac and the doc said this wasn’t a true inflammatory reaction.
So, since I can bear the pain (it’s not even pain), I’m not taking anything.

Boy, am I looking forward to some release. Even if it sends me jumping to the ceiling (had some previously so the jumping bit is in my future).

You might want to look into that trigger-point workbook I mentioned in my previous post--sounds like the kind of thing that might help you self-treat some of your issues. You're right about the release being painful sometimes! The good thing about knowing how to self-treat is that you can get after things when they first start to bug you, and nip them in the bud before it gets to be unbearably painful to work on them.

[alpinerabbit]

Oh yes, Jolt - I found them.

Trigger points, I know at least half a dozen on my right leg personally (intimately). But it's at a point where I can't get rid of the tightness on my own.
I actually like the "good kind of hurt" when I hit one.

And I want to run again, free from being afraid of hurting myself.

[eclectic]

I haven't been good - what with a head cold and recurring irritations along my thigh.

I finally visited the sports doc.

She examined me and diagnosed mostly severely hardened muscles (front of thighs, shins, butt), mediocre flexibility and weak core.

She prescribed a PT regimen starting out with manual therapy turning into building core strength and a running program (they'll even go to the track with me). Since I'll be paying this out of my pocket I know what I want for Xmas: PT money.
Heck, my core strength is already so much better. She should have seen me before the past 3 months of yoga.:p

Alpine I would like if you would start a thread so we can see what is happening.

Ok now for a question - what are severely hardened muscles?
I am surprised to hear about the weak core w/ all the swimming and biking you do. AND I would hate to see what would be said about my flexibility somewhere between High school, babies, and now it disappeared!

[eclectic]

Welcome Eclectic!
I, too, was never a runner until 4 years ago. Hated running. Always out of breath. So I was in my early 40's when I started. 5 years ago started cycling and lost weight. Then SO started running 5Ks..and I watched. I thought I could either say on teh side line watching, or get out there and run. And that is what I do! I like the longer distances, cuz I am slow. Just PR'ed in my last 1/2 Marathon.
Most folks start out wrong by running tooo fast, so just keep it slow. Yep I love races where folks "run" past me, but I pass later when they are walking. I think is you just slow you pace a bit you can run teh whole thing!
So welcome to the running thread. I myself need to get back to the biking thread and this year...a TRI!

Thanks! ! ! it is good to hear someone else started later too, is still doing it and surviving!

Many congrats on first completing a 1/2 and also on PRing it! Whoo hoo! ! !
:D :D :D
I hear you on the too fast part - that was my goal for the last tri I did - to run all the time no matter how slow - I did do it! I figured speed will eventually come. I have a HR monitor and watch the numbers and try to hold it in zone - sometimes when a good tune comes on I find myself speeding up but I slow down when I check. Like I said I am a #'s geek.

Have you done a tri yet? They are a BLAST ! ! ! The most fun competition I have done in my life. AND I really like all the Triathletes I have met - so far no snotty ones in the bunch. All helpful and kind.

[yellow]

I'm enjoying the cooler temperatures...we've been able to run routes that are too hot in the summer.

My running buddy and I made a new movie for November (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iZoRk8iC92g) (click on the "view in high quality" option). Subsequent to this, I got a new, real video camera, so the next movie(s) should be a dramatic improvement (I'm also demoing some real movie-making software; as the November Adventure demonstrates, controlling volume is difficult with the software I was using).

The trails are starting to get a little muddy and we've had to run with headlamps. I'm looking forward to the snow as it's much less messy (and will probably reflect the light a little better)!

[eclectic]

Wow Yellow that is soooooo fun! Thanks for posting that!
I am JEALOUS. What a great place to hike/run. (I would be hiking it not even attempting to run)

Thank you thank you thank you

can't wait to see the next installment made w/ the new camera!

[kacie tri-ing]

What a fun video! I loved it!

[OakLeaf]

Cool video! Looks like great fun. :D

DH wants to know where's the link to your Garmin tracks.

[yellow]

Thanks, all. We have a lot of fun making the movies. We usually make them on days when we're running long; gives us lots of excuses to stop!

Oak, I don't have the tracks posted anywhere, but can email them to you if you'd like. PM me with your email (I thought I had it but apparently don't).

[eclectic]

I have been fighting body aches and sniffles but today I made it to the Y and got my Sloooooow 4 miler done. BUT no walkers passed me :D

I am excited I could do it w/o stopping, my HR stayed down and I could talk if i had to.

Tomorrow will be the true tale when I see how sore I am.

I went in the hot tub and steam room after and that cleared my head out some. Right now I feel pretty good, surprisingly. May be, just maybe my running muscles are finally getting stronger!

now next week doesn't seem so scary

[jesvetmed]

Fun to read your progress, Eclectic!
Great work!

[Urlea]

:D Well I was finally healthy enough to run this afternoon. Only a few miles today, but it's a start.

It's been quite a while since I've run in 5degree temps, but it was bearable with the right gear. Speaking of which...

http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn187/RLphotoND/houndstooths.jpg

I purchased a new running jacket on sale last week. Figured you might enjoy the delightfully tacky print. At least I wont be hit by a car.

Anyway *hugs* to those of you feeling under the weather. Hope you feel better soon! And thanks to those who advised rest. I got plenty of it this week and seem to be on my way to 100%ish healthy.

[eclectic]

VERY stylish Urlea! I think it is really cute! good for you for braving the outside temps! I haven't done that yet.

Glad you are feeling better and back at it.

I see you are in Fargo. I am in Minot. My pie in the sky dream this year is to finish a 1/2 marathon. A coworker from here said to do the Fargo one in May as it is well run and a lot of fun. Sounds better than the Trestle valley one here w/ "road kill hill"
Do you run the Fargo one? if so let us know when registration opens - thanks

[kacie tri-ing]

Tacky? I think it is awesome!

I ran 20 today on trails. I only fell once, but it was quite dramatic. I always feel like I am in slow motion when I trip and fall. I tried to catch myself, but I think it just made the fall worse!

By the end, I was feeling strong still, which is more than I can say the last time I did this run. But--I was tired of being in the cold, my nose was running, I had to go to the bathroom, and my feet hurt. I was glad to be done, even though I felt much better aerobically! I think that is progress! 5 weeks until my marathon with mickey! Must stay healthy!

I hope everyone had a nice weekend of running!:) Post about it!

[michelem]

Well, I'm alive and completed the California International Marathon this morning. I'll post a race report in separate thread . . .

[colby]

I guess I'll post here, since I technically haven't ran since last Sunday...

I DID turn out for the Seattle Marathon's Half Marathon. I knew it would be slow, I knew I would be walking aid stations and taking it easy. I knew I'd stop when I had to go to the bathroom, I knew I'd be passed by a lot of people I should be passing in a normal year. But, it was the principle... it was a "stretch" - not impossible, but it wasn't like I was excessively well-trained either. Probably minimally trained. No super "long" runs but reliable every-other-day running with some longer days.

Anyway, I finished, hooray. It felt like miles 10-23 of a full marathon. (Maybe more like miles 1-3, miles 6-11, miles 20-23) The first couple of miles were fast and felt really good. Once I get back to full training volume, I'll be much better off. The next few dwindled. The last few were hard - I haven't been training hills to try to "take it easy" (relative) and the Seattle Marathon has hills.

The Half Marathon is pretty much all the "pretty" or scenic parts of the marathon (except maybe Seward/Gennessee Park, but you have to do that twice and it's not as fun the second time :p). I still think they should ditch the express lanes, even if I "get" why they do it, but the half marathon at least didn't include the super-boring (and super-windy, super-cold, whatever) section across the lake. It is by no means flat, more like a quad burner, but it's not the Pike's Peak (or what I imagine that to be) ;)

It was SUPER WARM... 50+ degrees. Way warmer than I expected - 2006 it was snowing, last year more normal (overcast, sunbreaks, 40s). I wore a sports bra and my cw-x insulated bra top (full length) under a long-sleeved shirt and it was too warm for the shirt, I had to take it off. I finished in 2:30 or so, I could have shaved off 7 minutes (I am not joking) if I didn't stop to go to the bathroom. I was running with the 2:00 pacer for the first few miles, then right at the bathroom stop the 2:15 pacer caught up. The half marathon starts at 7:30, 30 minutes before the full marathon start. I assume it's for staggering the finish to be a pretty constant stream of people.

Anyway, pictures... I look like I'm about to punch someone out :p http://www.asiorders.com/view_user_event.asp?EVENTID=32678&BIB=8787

To keep from injuring myself, I will not be training for a marathon this year - it'd have to be about March before I could run that distance. I would love to do the Disney World Half Marathon but it's very much sold out. I'll probably fall into base Ironman training after my PT - which is about 50% of normal running training volume right now. PT is going really well, though.

I am shopping for new shoes. Trying to avoid injury in as many ways as humanly possible. I have been wearing mens Asics (the GT-21xx series) because I need a 2E width and there's not a lot of womanly shoes that fit the bill that are easy to find. I went to a shoe store last weekend and tried to discuss my fit with the dude, who was skeptical about my need for a 2E. He had me try on regular width shoes in "normal" size, and I said they felt narrow. Stood up to show him how well my foot deformed the shoe, he said... "oh... yeah. You'll need the 2E. We don't stock those." ;) We talked about shoe volume and why wearing mens shoes was bad (which I already knew, but was lacking in many other choices). At this point, I'm debating ordering online, or finding another store that can order them here and would be willing to let me test them. I tried on a few styles at New Balance's store and they just didn't feel right. His recommendation (he did not do any weight/motion analysis, just looked at the shape of my foot) was the Brooks Addiction.

Longer than I intended... hope everyone's week is going well. :)

[Urlea]

Yay! It's good to see that more of us got out and ran this week. :D

I couldn't be more jealous of the 20mile trail run Kacie. I would love that!

Eclectic: The Fargo Marathon is as enjoyable as you've heard.

Last year I ran the 1/2 (my first ever) and this year I will be doing the full. I'm really looking forward to it.

Don't think the 1/2 is pie in the sky. You can do it and the Fargo Marathon is a good place to run it. With over 5,000 runners you're surrounded by both runners and spectators encouraging you on. The whole community does a lot of fun stuff between live bands and polka dancers to keep you distracted from the actual mileage you're covering. :)

Registration has opened, http://www.fargomarathon.com/registeronline.htm

Definitely think about it!

Another great one is the **** Beardsley 1/2 in September. It's quite a bit different though, very scenic (you run around Detroit Lake in MN). Fewer runners and cheering spectators. I enjoyed it just as much as Fargo's, but if you're one that prefers to run races with a lot of people and entertainment this race is a little light on that.

HTH!

[Jolt]

Last 2.5 miler today...next time up to 3! No IT band pain...seems it's fine now and just a matter of building up slowly to prevent a recurrence. I did have a few twinges from that vastus lateralis trigger point--time to roll around on a tennis ball since the foam roller doesn't get into that particular spot. It was cold this evening--about 15 degrees. The shoe companies should make winter running shoes, that don't have mesh uppers!! Even wool socks don't compensate for all that cold air flowing through the shoes... Who else had a chilly run today?

[eclectic]

WOW colby! thanks for posting the pics.

and Kaci tri-ing 20 mile trail run :eek: i can't even imagine! but it would be a lot more fun than going 'round and 'round and 'round . . . . on the track

Jolt - I agree - cold toes but then I don't plan on running outside anytime soon :rolleyes:

Urlea - are there old, more "rubanesque" ladies running the 1/2 ? I am not young and I am not the typical body type runner (that is because until now I have not BEEN a runner)

I did not realize the Fargo Marathon was that big! I really think I will have to shoot for it! (I just hate the thought though of coming in last . . . but then I guess someone has to. . . and just think of how I would make everyone else's day . . . they could say "well at least I didn't come in last" :D

Well you have all motivated me - time to go run :)

[Urlea]

Jolt: Glad your recovery is coming along. I'm sure it's a challenge of patience to ease back into it, but you're doing an awesome job!

I'll ask my hubby when he gets home, but I remember seeing and hearing good things about a new shoe that Nike came out with. It has Gore-Tex technology and is supposed to weather the elements better.

I think it's this one...

http://store.nike.com/index.jsp?country=US&cp=USNS_KW_0611081618&lang_locale=en_US#l=shop,pdp,ctr-inline/cid-1/pid-192954

(He just got home and says "yep, it's that one".)

Unfortunately my shoe budget was spent last month so I can't give them a shot, but I am curious.

http://www.inov-8.com/

Is another good resource. They customize in trail running shoes which typically means more water/junk proof. I've heard very good things about these from guys at the LRS here.

As for me, I got a 5.3 (according to mapmyrun.com) mile run in today. About 2-3" of snow covered most of the paths with 6" in spots where there was drifting or where the plow had sprayed snow onto it.

Overall a pleasant run in about 20 degree weather. Kind of felt like trail running. Took a bit more work to make sure I wouldn't roll an ankle on the uneven surface, but I'm definitely a lot more content running in the snow versus running on a dreadmill.

[Jolt]

Jolt: Glad your recovery is coming along. I'm sure it's a challenge of patience to ease back into it, but you're doing an awesome job!

I'll ask my hubby when he gets home, but I remember seeing and hearing good things about a new shoe that Nike came out with. It has Gore-Tex technology and is supposed to weather the elements better.

I think it's this one...

http://store.nike.com/index.jsp?country=US&cp=USNS_KW_0611081618&lang_locale=en_US#l=shop,pdp,ctr-inline/cid-1/pid-192954

(He just got home and says "yep, it's that one".)

Unfortunately my shoe budget was spent last month so I can't give them a shot, but I am curious.

http://www.inov-8.com/

Is another good resource. They customize in trail running shoes which typically means more water/junk proof. I've heard very good things about these from guys at the LRS here.

As for me, I got a 5.3 (according to mapmyrun.com) mile run in today. About 2-3" of snow covered most of the paths with 6" in spots where there was drifting or where the plow had sprayed snow onto it.

Overall a pleasant run in about 20 degree weather. Kind of felt like trail running. Took a bit more work to make sure I wouldn't roll an ankle on the uneven surface, but I'm definitely a lot more content running in the snow versus running on a dreadmill.

Good point on the trail shoes; maybe on cold days I should just wear mine (assuming wearing trail shoes on the road won't be a problem...).

[Urlea]

Eclectic there wasn't a single body type or age I didn't see running the 1/2 and I'd say that a fair bit of them were easily over 40.

In fact I spent a portion of the race chatting with a 70yr. old! :D (I really hope I'll be able to continue running into my 70's.)

As far as coming in last, I wouldn't worry about it. Nobody would ever know because the 1/2 and Full runners all start at the same time. You might even be confused with a fast full runner when you cross that finish line.

More importantly though it's your own race.

I'm sure most of the people here would agree that if we focused on how much faster and athletic looking the other runners around us were we'd spend the race discouraged. But, if you focus on your own goals it makes it a lot more enjoyable.

Best of luck with your training!

[emily_in_nc]

Wow, I never fail to be inspired by the running talent and perseverance here! 20 miles on the trail...that's gotta be equivalent to a road marathon as trails are trickier, at least the ones around here (curves, roots, rocks, wet leaves, etc!)

I haven't run outside lately but did manage 4.5 on the treadmill today. I've been doing intervals of flat vs incline. I change every .25 miles from flat to a grade, starting at 1% and working up to a couple 2% and 3% grade quarter-miles. I go slower on the "climbs" and faster on the "flats" so it's more like an outdoor run and seems to help my hillwork when I do get outside to run or even just hike.

Felt really strong today! :)

[Urlea]

Well I did something I have yet to do since I started running and that would be setting out for a run before the sun came up. I've ran in the dark even as late as midnight, but being an "early-bird" definitely doesn't come naturally.

My husband and I found out about a new group run that is on Thursday morning. Starts at 5:30 a.m. Yeah, I'm basically running in my sleep that early in the day. Anywho, you earn free gear at set points once you've covered X-amount of miles. Stuff like free socks, L/S tech shirt and if you run 300 miles with them you get a *FREE* pair of Brooks shoes. How awesome is that? :D

There are 3, 5, 7 & 9 mile courses to choose from and you decide each time which one you want to do. This morning I went for the 5mi. since I've felt pretty comfortable running that lately.

It was a good strong 5miles. Very quiet though. Because the battery in my ipod dies before 4miles in the cold I decided not to take it. That and I was hoping to be running with the group which would involve at least some conversation. No such luck though, as it turns out nobody in the 5mile group runs over a 8.5-9min mile. :( After the first two miles I couldn't even see the faster runners. Still glad we went. Definitely going again next week.

How is running going for the rest of you this week?

Colby Somehow I missed your RR in the other posts. So here's a belated WOOHOO & Good Job!!! :D The photos look great. I'm glad I'm not the only one who throws up my arms at the end of a half. It's something to celebrate!! (Don't tell anyone, but sometimes I do this after a good training run too.)

[Jolt]

3 miles today in the cold rain! Not the nicest weather but I wore waterproof/breathable pants, jacket and shell mittens and it wasn't bad.

[teigyr]

Colby, am glad to see you did the Seattle 1/2 Marathon! I heard stories about the lines for the restrooms and I know using the portapotties took a lot of time. I used to wear mens 2E ASICs, btw, and have now gone to womens Brooks. I love them. The Defyance is my personal favorite but they might not have as much support as you might need. I have some pretty hefty orthotics so the more minimal shoe works well for me.

Urlea, I love that jacket!

Eclectic, there are all sorts of people in races. Even in the marathon I ran, there were all ages and sizes. I've learned to never judge by appearance because sometimes the most unlikely looking people are the most impressive.

It sounds like everyone is doing well and is surviving the winter.

I just JUST got my Garmin. I'm going out for a wet, windy, and rainy run with it tomorrow. Ten miles. My mentality is ten miles in the cold rain is FAR superior to ten miles on the treadmill. I am so excited to see my ten mile course downloaded from the Garmin though.

[kacie tri-ing]

Hello and happy weekend!

Colby--I like the pictures!

Ok--this week, I got in 6 on Tuesday, 8 on a treadmill Wednesday, and 6 on Thursday. I have a ride to do Saturday and another 20 miler on the trails on Sunday. Then I have one more 20 miler, 16 miler, and then I am really tapering. I try to keep respecting the distances. Even though I have done this run twice, I still have two more times to do it, so I have to keep my mind in the right place! Think good and long run thoughts for me! :) I am starting to think about the actual disney marathon all the time! I have found myself talking about it so much more with my friends/family. I just have a lot of miles left between now and then!

Have a great weekend everyone!

[colby]

Colby, am glad to see you did the Seattle 1/2 Marathon! I heard stories about the lines for the restrooms and I know using the portapotties took a lot of time. I used to wear mens 2E ASICs, btw, and have now gone to womens Brooks. I love them. The Defyance is my personal favorite but they might not have as much support as you might need. I have some pretty hefty orthotics so the more minimal shoe works well for me.

Good to know - do you size up from your regular shoe size? I measure a womens 8 (often a mens 7), but I wear size 40 bike shoes and my running shoes are a mens 8. I'm afraid to buy something that I'm going to burst at the seams, but I REALLY want a shoe that fits.


Colby Somehow I missed your RR in the other posts. So here's a belated WOOHOO & Good Job!!! :D The photos look great. I'm glad I'm not the only one who throws up my arms at the end of a half. It's something to celebrate!! (Don't tell anyone, but sometimes I do this after a good training run too.)

It was a victory for me... that qualifies for arms up. :)

I have ran a couple times this week, working on eliminating walk breaks and adding a few minutes over the course of a week to get me back up to my 45min-hr 3x/week and longer on weekends. Right now I'm at about 25 minutes running + 10 minutes of walking (except that half marathon... which was more like 2 hours of running, 10 minutes of debating and waiting and using the bathroom, and 20 minutes of spread out walking/stretching). Today it snowed, first big snow of the year, and is supposed to be SUPER cold this week (today 30F, tomorrow 9, monday/tuesday 2, wednesday 7). Time to break out the insulated tights and consider the treadmill if it's windy or icy.

[jesvetmed]

Way to go Colby! I know I'm a week late... but hey, that's just me!

Great job everyone for getting out there...
I got in a 4 mile interval workout, a 6 mile run, and then tomorrow will be an 8.5 miler (probably in the snow.... i LOVE running in the snow!)

Have fun everyone!
Jes

[Urlea]

Jes: Good to "see" you! Running in the snow despite the cold is really beautiful.

I got another 5.3 miler in yesterday. Decided to do my new route in reverse in hopes of avoiding getting blasted by the 15-20mph winds. It worked. The portion that was into the wind was blocked by the creek embankment and trees. :)

Other then that it was a very tiring run. Almost got hit by a truck not obeying traffic lights & I have to run about 1.5 miles in about 6" of snow right now since the city has decided that the path doesn't need to be cleared for that section. :mad: It will make me stronger, but I'd rather not start out the run with muscle fatigue in my legs. Still glad I got out though.

Not sure about tomorrow's run. I might be stuck on the dreadmill. It's a high of -17 tomorrow. I had kind of told myself I wouldn't run if it was below -10. Depends on the wind and if there's sun. It's about -8 right now with 45-50mph winds with new snow. (Yes that's a blizzard & no, there is no leaving the house today.) I'll let you know. :)

Hope the rest of you had great runs this weekend!!!

[Jolt]

I made the mistake of attempting a trail run today after the ice storm that hit the area on Thursday night. Let's just say the Midstate Trail maintenance crews have their work cut out for them. It wasn't so much a run as constant climbing over and under downed trees and branches.

[ASammy1]

Everyone on this thread is so inspiring. Do any of you have advice for a beginner runner?

[Jolt]

Everyone on this thread is so inspiring. Do any of you have advice for a beginner runner?

Let's see...sounds like you're being smart about easing into it which is key. Have you gone to a running shop and had them help you pick shoes that are good for your particular body mechanics? That's a good idea since the wrong shoes can increase the chances of an injury. What kinds of surfaces are you running on? Concrete is the worst (it's really hard); stay off it. Asphalt is hard too but usually OK. Dirt is best (plus trails are SO much more fun than roads, except when they are filled with downed trees and branches from an ice storm).