Trotting for Turkey (November Running)

[Selkie]

Milestone: I'm up to four miles. :) Having minor piriformis issues, so I'm going to concentrate on stretching my glutes/hams/piriformis more. Ankle tendons are doing great, thank goodness.

DH and I are going to do a Turkey Trot on T'giving morning (5K). We opted for a smaller race in Arlington (closer to home) instead of a bigger 5K in the District.

Best news of all: I just signed up for a ChiRunning workshop in December! Can't wait. :):):):)

[skhill]

We have a turkey trot 5k here too-- but I haven't run it. Thanksgiving morning I'm either cooking or in the car...

No formal run today, but part of Stella my new dog's walk turned into a run. In blue jeans and boots. She's not going to be a constant running partner, but we might try some short runs together, once she puts on some weight (she's scrawny right now).

[Veronica]

I did 5 five miles on the treadmill yesterday. It's been a long time since I've done a treadmill run. I have gotten a LOT faster in the last year. Last November it was taking me 65 minutes to run five miles on the treadmill and I would have to walk. Yesterday's run only took 49. :p Not a blindingly fast pace by any means, but I just don't think I'm made to be blindingly fast on the run.

Veronica

[emily_in_nc]

That's a huge improvement, Veronica, congrats!

I am running 3x a week on the beach and beach trail here and am up to around 3.5 miles. There's a 5K the Sunday after Thanksgiving here for charity that I think DH and I are going to do. That would be my first official 5K, and although I am a very slow runner, you never know how many 50+ gals will register. I might place simply by showing up and finishing the distance in such a small town. :D

[Jolt]

I did about a 40-minute run today on the town trail system. I wish I had a better idea of distances...it's just so much easier to go by time on trails or road/trail combination runs like I often do.

[VeganBikeChick]

We have 2 Turkey Trots here - one is very informal and run on Sunday of T'giving weekend, around the lake; the other is a more organized race run on T'giving Thurs but very hilly. I really wanted to run on T'giving, as it's right before my work stretch, but I'd much prefer the flat lake scenery than a bunch of hills and can't do Sunday as it's in the middle of my stretch on. /rant over

[Crankin]

I think I have a stress fracture in my left foot. I had some twinges in the metatarsals about a month ago when running. I kept going and it got worse the next time I ran. Then, about a week after that, my foot felt fine, but one night when I took my shoes off, after work, I had a lot of pain on the top of my left foot, where the ankle strap of my low heel Mary Janes went across the top of the foot. It hasn't been the same since.
I've had a stress fracture before, many years ago, from teaching aerobics on concrete floors. I did go to a podiatrist and got a couple of ultra sound treatments, but essentially, the treatment was rest. I guess going to the 2 step classes didn't help this last week. Riding doesn't bother it at all, but lots of walking does.
Grrr. This is the time of year I do more hiking and running and I just joined a gym. Maybe my body is telling me something? I am trying to rest it, in terms of no running, but I can't stop walking, obviously.

[OakLeaf]

Ouch. Are you going to get it X-rayed? At least you'd know. Whatever it is, heal quick!

[Crankin]

Not sure about the x ray. It's basically some kind of overuse injury and it is slowly getting better. The pain isn't bad enough to make me run to the doctor; I haven't done anything, like icing, which I may start today.
Last year I bought a new pair of running shoes that have no seams that irritate my bunion. I went to a good LRS and was fit. However, ever since I got them, I've had twinges in all the normal areas that runners have issues with: shins, calves, etc. I know minimalist is in, but I think I need more support somewhere; one thing that always amazed me is that I had no injuries from running, just soreness from using muscles that don't get worked from riding.
I am going to give it a week or so and then think about going to the podiatrist.

[Bike Chick]

Crankin, I hate to hear that. How awful! I hope you heal up soon. Bummer!

I haven't been on the forum much the last few weeks. I ran in the St. Louis Rock N Roll HM 2 weeks ago and reached my goal of finishing under 2:30 by finishing in 2:29:59---just made it! I was very happy with that. I have been down in Florida on a little vacation and also volunteering at the Florida IM and am back on my marathon training schedule. I ran 14 miles Friday--the furthest distance I have ever run--in the midst of all the IM participants riding and running the day before the race. Talk about inspiring!

I bought a pair of Newton shoes at the IM expo and have been wearing them walking. I'm anxious to try running in them and see if they make a difference. Anyone else tried the Newtons?

[OakLeaf]

The thing about transitioning to a less-supportive shoe is that you have to do it SLOWLY. Like, you're supposed to start with 100 yards to at most a quarter-mile at the end of a run in your regular shoes, and GRADUALLY increase over a period of months.

I've been working on this for what, a couple of years now? Four or five years if you count where I started with Chi Running. Targeted exercises, shoes that aren't too small, yoga, doing more of my ADLs barefoot or at least in more flexible shoes. I'd be good in the Altras if they only fit me, and I looove walking/hiking in my VFFs but I'll never be able to run in them either because of the fit. I'm nowhere near ready for barefoot or even minimalist shoe running. But I'm getting closer all the time, and this latest round of PT where she did a lot of mobilization on my feet and ankles has brought me closer.

Just floundering for motivation for running right at the moment. I did about five yesterday. I'm really considering the Illinois Marathon at the end of April ... it's a cr*ppy time as far as my schedule, but I'm not seeing one I'd rather run before then. We'll see.

[skhill]

Much as I don't approve of daylight savings time in the abstract, it was really nice to have more light on my run today. At 6:20 am, the eastern sky was starting the pre-dawn glow; when I got home just before 7, the streetlights were off!

Been looking at the local race calendar, and a second turky trot has been added on the Sat. after thanksgiving; it's a fundraiser for a soup kitchen in my neighborhood. Think I'll do it--if I'm not still too weighed down by the thanksgiving feast.

[Veronica]

I started wearing only Barefoot type shoes back in the summer. Hiked all over Glacier in the them, wear them to work... It's a good thing 5th grade is pretty causal. :) I've got three different pairs of the Merrills for daily wear.

I bought a pair of the Kinvara 2s a couple of months ago and started doing some short runs in them. Now they are all I wear. I've progressed to 8.5 miles in them. I got a second pair so I could alternate. I wear them to my trainer workouts now too. I like that they have some cushioning, but they are still so light.

I'm thankful I have been relatively injury free. Of course I only run 32 miles a month and almost never two days in a row. And I do 35 minutes of stretching 3 - 4 times a week - Yoga for Triathletes video. :D

Veronica

[Bike Chick]

Oak, I got a fitting at the Newton tent and was fit for the Guidance Trainer (http://www.newtonrunning.com/shoes/women-shoes/women-guidance-trainer/neutral-trainer), which offers more support than the minimalist shoe. I also attended a running clinic which helped a lot. I was told to wear them everyday for 7-10 days then start running gradually. I've been wearing them everyday for a week now and ran a 1/2 mile in them this morning. So far, so good. What I like most about them is that they offer a lot of support and cushion in the metatarsal area of my foot, where I need it most.

I think you will like the Illinois marathon. It's a good race with lots of support and it's flat. I've run the half at Illinois, St. Jude in Memphis, and St. Louis Rock N Roll and the Illinois was my favorite.

[7rider]

Best news of all: I just signed up for a ChiRunning workshop in December! Can't wait. :):):):)

Arrrgghhh!! Where? When?
I've been trying without luck to connect with a ChiRunning instructor out of Rockville with no luck. I'd love to get in on one! Can you PM me the info?

I actually ran/jogged/trotted 2.75 miles yesterday. Working my way up (ever so slowly) back into the longer distances in preparation for a 5-mile race/run in December. Treadmill is supposed to be delivered tomorrow (was supposed to come last Thursday, but a mix up from the store left me with no treadmill! :(). Hopefully that will encourage me to do the mid-week runs that I've been avoiding this fall. Running once a week is probably not ideal for training. :rolleyes:

[GLC1968]

Yay for the Chi running clinic! I was just thinking during my run yesterday that I'd like to take a clinic to help tweak my form.

So let's see - I did 4.5 miles after work on Nov 1 - skipped the rest of my weekday runs last week (bad me!) and then did 4 miles on the treadmill on Saturday (I LOVE that thing! It's such a pleasure to run on...too bad it's in the basement where I have nothing good to look at...), and then 9 miles yesterday. It was clear, cool and beautiful out yesterday. I ran on mostly a paved MUP and sidewalks, but I also did a loop around the lake in a wetlands preserve and that was so incredibly peaceful. I'm definitely going to have to run there more often!

I'm documenting this here in case anyone cares - do not skip all your weekday runs in lieu of a long run on the weekend! My legs were aching something awful last night. This week, I'm committing to getting in ALL my weekday runs (even though now it's pitch black after work).

[VeganBikeChick]

I'm documenting this here in case anyone cares - do not skip all your weekday runs in lieu of a long run on the weekend! My legs were aching something awful last night. This week, I'm committing to getting in ALL my weekday runs (even though now it's pitch black after work).


And don't "Take a week off" if for no other reason than being tired. I did that last week (my workweek) and I'm seriously regretting it this week. Feels like I'm starting all over again, back to minimal miles. :(

[Selkie]

Arrrgghhh!! Where? When?
I've been trying without luck to connect with a ChiRunning instructor out of Rockville with no luck. I'd love to get in on one! Can you PM me the info?

I actually ran/jogged/trotted 2.75 miles yesterday. Working my way up (ever so slowly) back into the longer distances in preparation for a 5-mile race/run in December. Treadmill is supposed to be delivered tomorrow (was supposed to come last Thursday, but a mix up from the store left me with no treadmill! :(). Hopefully that will encourage me to do the mid-week runs that I've been avoiding this fall. Running once a week is probably not ideal for training. :rolleyes:

Hi

The clinic is in Herndon (unGodly place, outside the beltway). LOL. Yes, we are desperate enough to schlep out there on the weekend.

I'll pm you the link. :-) It would be great if you came--my husband is registered, too. The instructor is going to also include a session on how to use one of those foam rollers for injury prevention.

Can't wait to hear about your treadmill, too. We're still waiting for delivery notification for ours.

[Selkie]

Yay for the Chi running clinic! I was just thinking during my run yesterday that I'd like to take a clinic to help tweak my form.
...
I'm documenting this here in case anyone cares - do not skip all your weekday runs in lieu of a long run on the weekend! My legs were aching something awful last night. This week, I'm committing to getting in ALL my weekday runs (even though now it's pitch black after work).

Go to the ChiRunning website and click on the links of upcoming workshops (it's under the Store link). :) I think I saw some in Oregon.

By the way, I got myself one of those headlamps to wear from early morning runs & dog walking. Works like a champ (got it at REI).

[Selkie]

[QUOTE=Bike Chick;610304...
I bought a pair of Newton shoes at the IM expo and have been wearing them walking. I'm anxious to try running in them and see if they make a difference. Anyone else tried the Newtons?[/QUOTE]

I had the Newtons when they first came out and LOVED them. Really forced you into striking on the forefoot vs your heel and I felt fast in them.

Once I'm sure I'm over the hump with my ankle issues, I might get another pair. Right now I'm slowly making changes to avoid injury. Have started wearing my VFFs around the house again, but I'm not sure I'll ever run in them again. Read an article in the NYT magazine yesterday about barefoot running that was interesting.

[Jolt]

I completely embarrassed myself on today's run...was on the town trails, throwing in some fast intervals, and during one of them tripped on a root that was hidden under the leaves. This resulted in essentially doing a belly flop. And, of course, a lady walking her dog was coming the other way in time to see me sprawled on the trail; I don't think she actually saw me take the digger but she sure did see the aftermath! Then I ran into her again on the way home because at that point we were going in the same direction and I passed her. At least I didn't get hurt during my clumsy moment...just a bruised ego!

[OakLeaf]

Oh yikes Jolt! Glad you're okay. It took me a ton of stability work before I quit falling on the freakin' road. I'm a little afraid to run trails! (Mostly though I already drive to do most of my cycling and I really don't want to get into the habit of driving to run, too.)

Newton shoes look interesting but they don't come in widths, so they're probably out for me. I have a pair of the NB Minimus cross-trainers for the gym that fit reasonably well in a men's wide. I went to look at a pair at the LRS the other day, but they fit differently from the cross-trainers and they don't stock wides. If I'm going to have to take a chance on special ordering, I'll probably go through the NB corporate store where I can return them without guilt.

There's a Level II Chi Running workshop coming up and I'm really tempted.

Long intervals for me today, three minutes at 5K pace, three minutes easy jogging, x 5. Glorious day at the fitness trail. On one of the repeats I passed a woman pushing her toddler son in his stroller, and as I swooshed by he went, "Whoa!!" At least I seem fast to a three-year-old. :D

Another cool sight - the trail backs up against a nursing home and then a stand of woods. There are often deer around who are very accustomed to humans. Today a nursing home resident was out on the patio in her wheelchair enjoying the sunshine, and a doe with a gimpy leg walked up to check her out. Made me smile.

[GLC1968]

Wow, Jolt - I'm glad you are ok! I read your description and almost phyically felt the wind being knocked out of me! I've taken spills like that and they are no fun.

Oak - I just ordered a pair of the new NB Minimus directly from NB (free shipping through tomorrow, by the way!) because mine get really wet in all the rain around here. Hopefully these:http://www.shopnewbalance.com/women/shoes/outdoor/multi-sport/WO10GR will be better suited to the PNW weather.

Selkie - there IS a clinic near me in just a couple of weeks! Now I need to justify the $100 to my husband somehow (since I have like zero of my own money at the moment)....

[Jolt]

Oak, I know what you mean about driving to run! I do occasionally, but mostly I use the trails here in town, which I can run to in less than 10 minutes, or the ones on a farm in another part of town, which take just under 20 minutes on the road to run to (so that's my usual long-run route). Not as good as some trails further away (the town trail system doesn't have enough singletrack sections and has a lot of crushed-gravel surfaces in my area, which are not always the nicest thing to run on in minimal shoes), but I don't want to get in the habit of driving to run either.

[Crankin]

Jolt, I found myself splayed out on a trail a couple of years ago, and prayed that no one saw; I wasn't hurt, just roughed up, but felt totally embarrassed.

When I meant minimalist shoe, it's not one of the ones you guys wear. It's a regular running shoe that feels very thin and it's like I can feel the ground on the sole and even the body of the shoe feels thin. I can't describe it, but even though I have had no issues with the bunion since, I noticed the different feeling right away and i have not liked it. Well, it's a moot point as I guess I'm done with running until late winter/early spring. I want my foot to be in good shape for x country skiing, which is my absolute favorite sport and I only get about 8 weeks to enjoy it.

[colby]

Today's google offer for Austin was $5 off entry (and google donates $10) for Race for the Cure this weekend, so my husband and I are going to run that. I guess we'll "run" since he's not much of a runner and I just did Ironman Florida.

Going to switch over to training for the Seattle Marathon, Thanksgiving weekend. So far I'm running the half, not the full. I think it's going to take a lot of convincing for me to want to run the full. It's going to be a fundraiser for Child's Play charity, a charity that donates games to childrens hospitals (and wings of hospitals). I was a kid in a hospital once, and despite the fact that I was less than 2 when I had surgery and lots of repeat visits for both my eyes, I still remember it as very intimidating. Some of these kids effectively live there, the least we can do is entertain them ;) More info about the nerds and I that are running: http://run.bravelittlescientist.com/

After that.... a break? Maybe? I am hoping to try some runs or rides in Austin when I'm there (which is about half time through end of the year, then who knows).

[indysteel]

I know this is nothing compared to most of you, but I ran Friday, Saturday and today, about 4 miles each time out. With my thyroid under control, I'm making decent progress getting back into the swing if things. More importantly, I'm actually enjoying it.

[Selkie]

I know this is nothing compared to most of you, but I ran Friday, Saturday and today, about 4 miles each time out. With my thyroid under control, I'm making decent progress getting back into the swing if things. More importantly, I'm actually enjoying it.

That's great! :)

GLC - How about considering the workshop an early Christmas present? Or you can consider it a good investment in injury prevention (if you got injured, you would have medical bills).

[katluvr]

So I have not made it running every day in Nov., but at least I have ran.
I started Nov. 1st off with an 8 mile run. My last "training" run before I left for Wisconsin to run a half marathon. I did get in a 3 mile run on Friday so I could figure out how to dress for that temperature. It felt pretty good. So on Sat.was the 1/2 marathon, sponsored by a Brewery. It started at 11:30, probably to take advantage of the warmer part of the day. I was way undertrained, it was windy, cold (for me) and hilly. First half of the course was very hilly. I thought if I made it in 2:30 (for not training) I would be doing pretty good. My legs felt OK, but started out too fast for my cardio. Then mile 7 my right foot, ball area, base of my toes started hurting...really bad!. I did the last 6 miles doing the walking/running wounded shuffle. It was a pretty course, but I was hurting a bit too much. But I did finish and managed a 2:34 time. And the beer & food was great! And we had friends waiting in the warm tent for us.
The next day I did a really slow easy 3 miler just to keep from getting stiff. So I have run 4 times thus far this month. Heading out later today to run in the FL warmth!

Good job everyone on your runs!
K

[7rider]

Selkie - there IS a clinic near me in just a couple of weeks! Now I need to justify the $100 to my husband somehow (since I have like zero of my own money at the moment)....

Huh. It's 50% higher in this neck o' the woods. Darned cost of living. Debating strongly, and got a bunch of negative feedback on the expense from friends in my tri club's meeting last night. Still, I'm such a dreadful runner that I wonder if this coaching will help me out in a way that "self taught" won't. But I agree, see if you can pitch it as an early holiday gift.

As for driving to run...I think once I get myself back up to 4+ miles, I will, if only because my neighborhood is so darned hilly. I have a 4 to 4.5 mile MUT run I can do that only rises with the stream bed it follows, so it's essentially a flat run. When I get up to that mileage, I'll "reward" myself with the flat run. For now, my 2-3 milers will have to be up and down the hills of my neighborhood.

[GLC1968]

Yeah, I would bet that the cost difference is demand, more than COL. I was amazed that this clinic is less than 2 weeks away and it still has 7 available openings. I guess Chi running isn't taking off here like it is in other places?

I'm actually working on convincing my husband to sign up with me. So far, he's considering it! He wants to be a runner, but has ITB issues every time he tries (from mountaineering and cycling, actually), so this might be a good opportunity for him. :D

Today I've got 4.5 miles on my plan. I'm going to TRY and get out at lunchtime today, but we'll see.

Oh, and I pretty much always have to drive to run. Luckily, I don't have to drive to bike, so it evens out. ;)

[Selkie]

Oak, I got a fitting at the Newton tent and was fit for the Guidance Trainer (http://www.newtonrunning.com/shoes/women-shoes/women-guidance-trainer/neutral-trainer), which offers more support than the minimalist shoe. I also attended a running clinic which helped a lot. I was told to wear them everyday for 7-10 days then start running gradually. I've been wearing them everyday for a week now and ran a 1/2 mile in them this morning. So far, so good. What I like most about them is that they offer a lot of support and cushion in the metatarsal area of my foot, where I need it most.
.

BC - How is it going with the Newtons?

I have a pair of one of the stability trainers coming (the bright blue ones, can't remember the model name). Plan to slowly adjust to them.

[GLC1968]

OK, my husband and I signed up for the Chi running clinic next weekend. Yay!

I also just signed up to run another half-marathon (#4). I'm now doing the Portland Rock n Roll half two weeks before I do the San Diego Rock n Roll half. I am insane. I blame Susan. :p

3 mile run on the treadmill last night. It felt really good, actually. Looking forward to some outside running this weekend. :)

[skhill]

I'm out of practice dressing for running in the cold! This morning it was 27F, with wind chill down at 21F, when I headed out. Hands and feet were cold, legs just right, upper body and head too warm. Went 5 miles; started out way faster than intended, so the final mile was really slow...

But the weekend looks great for all outside things; might try taking my new dog on a short run Sunday. She still needs to put on some weight, but when she had her first vet appt. this week, her vet mentioned that it's a good thing I'm a runner, because this dog will want a lot of vigorous exercise.

[emily_in_nc]

What a difference two days makes. I did the same beach run (approx. 3.5 mi) Wed. am and this morning, but I felt like doodoo Wed. and actually pretty good today!

I'm trying to figure out if the difference is pre-run fueling (Wed. I had a homemade energy bar and a cup of coffee, and today I had a banana and OJ, just trying to change things up a bit), or mostly the weather conditions. Wed. was 79-81 and very humid. Today was 75-76 and less humid. Both days sunny, but today was much breezier. It really did feel significantly cooler, so that may have been why I didn't feel near death at the end. I still sweat quite a bit, though!

[Bike Chick]

BC - How is it going with the Newtons?

I have a pair of one of the stability trainers coming (the bright blue ones, can't remember the model name). Plan to slowly adjust to them.

So far, so good, Selkie! I've done one 2 mile run in them and have been walking in them alot. I plan to do my 5 mile run in them this week and I'll give you an update. I think I'm really going to like them and hope that I can run my marathon in January in them.

I hit a milestone today! 16 mile run! And I also found a running partner which really made the miles click by. A lady in my town is also training for a marathon and suggested we do our long runs together. Her pace is about a mile a minute faster than mine but we made it work.

[OakLeaf]

Well apparently I'm the kind of person who runs a half-marathon out of laziness and lack of motivation. :rolleyes:

I've been really struggling lately, kind of similar issues to what Brandi posted about in her thread - yesterday I barely got off the couch, and this morning I just couldn't motivate to do the club ride even though they're starting an hour later for the winter (in addition to the time change). But I knew there was this little half in the afternoon ... and I pretty much needed to get a longer run in before we travel to see my dad ...

There were maybe 100 runners and we didn't get much for our registration fee. I wasn't expecting a T-shirt since I registered day of race, but the website promised six water stops and AG awards, and what we got was three water stops (the last one 4.5 miles from the finish), a course that was four-tenths of a mile short, and only awards for overall podiums. But what the heck, not much sense in a medal when there might've been three or four people in my AG. :cool: I don't care about the short course either since I really wasn't running for time, but there were at least a couple of people who said it was their first half, so that must've been a disappointment for them.

My husband promised me I'd feel better after I ran. He was right. :)

[Jolt]

Well, today's plan was for a long run on some trails in a wildlife-management area a few towns over that I had heard were supposed to be good. However, because I didn't have a map of said trails (and am not sure one exists) it didn't go so well. The trail from the first trailhead was too short and mostly not runnable due to being too steep on the way up. At the secoond trailhead, I found another too-short trail but it was pretty flat and runnable, then there was another trail that may have been longer but by that time I was running out of daylight so had to head home. I may go back there tomorrow and try that main trail even though it's an ATV trail which really isn't my favorite thing...I am still working on finding foot-only trails in the area that are long enough for a good hike/run and aren't too far away. There is the town's trail system and the loop on the farm/apple orchard, both of which are decent, but some variety is nice too. Actually, the good thing about going back to that wildlife management area tomorrow would be that there is no hunting allowed on Sundays here...I have a blaze orange vest and bandana which I wore today, but it still makes me slightly nervous that people could be out there shooting. I could tell somebody had gotten something today...there was definitely some blood on the trail in one area, and it was coagulated but not dried yet.

[Selkie]

So far, so good, Selkie! I've done one 2 mile run in them and have been walking in them alot. I plan to do my 5 mile run in them this week and I'll give you an update. I think I'm really going to like them and hope that I can run my marathon in January in them.


Thanks for the update. I put on my new Newtons this morning and quickly remembered why I loved them before.

I've been wearing my VFFs around the house, so depending on how I feel, I might try to run a mile in the Newtons some time this coming week.

[7rider]

I went out for a 3.25 mile training run today. I've started running with a metronome playing in 1 ear to train me to improve my cadence. We'll see how it goes.

Came across a neighbor friend who we haven't seen in ages. Asked him how he was doing. Said his wife - they had been together since 1964! - passed away suddenly and unexpectedly 5 weeks ago. Pulmonary embolism. He was on the phone with her when she collapsed. It was too late by the time he got to her. What a shock. His advice was to live each day to the fullest and tell those you love that you love them.

[Bike Chick]

Thanks for the update. I put on my new Newtons this morning and quickly remembered why I loved them before.

I've been wearing my VFFs around the house, so depending on how I feel, I might try to run a mile in the Newtons some time this coming week.

Let me know how it goes. So you have had Newtons in the past? How long did it take you to build the mileage in them? I'm afraid to run too far just yet. I can't risk an injury 6 weeks before a marathon.

[GLC1968]

Oak - I guess picking up a random half marathon will get you out and running, huh?

7rider - I'm sorry about your neighbor. That's really shocking and sad!


I ran 5 miles on the treadmill yesterday. It went really well because I was watching a DVD! By next weekend we'll have cable in our basement, too...so that'll help.

Today I did 10 miles outside. I ran my usual route but threw in 3 loops around the wetland preserve lake to extend it. Luckily, the rain held off, so I got to run the entire thing with dry feet. :)

[skhill]

Sunday I took my dog running for the first time. The wind was howling (and it still is) so I wasn't going to have a decent run anyway, so why not take Stella along. We did just one mile, with a piddle break and a squirrel break; Stella wanted to keep going but I was cussing the wind, so that was all. We'll try it again when the weather's better...

No run today, thanks to the wind. If it's raining tomorrow morning as hard as predicted, it'll be a treadmill day for the first time in months...

[Selkie]

Let me know how it goes. So you have had Newtons in the past? How long did it take you to build the mileage in them? I'm afraid to run too far just yet. I can't risk an injury 6 weeks before a marathon.

The first time I used Newtons, I just started wearing them. I was just getting back into running, so it was a natural progression because I was building mileage back up as I acclimated.

If I were you, I'd take it very very slow. Also, pay careful attention to stretching your calves and watching your ankles/achilles. You don't want to end up with ankle/achilles tendonitis, particularly right before a marathon.

[Bike Chick]

The first time I used Newtons, I just started wearing them. I was just getting back into running, so it was a natural progression because I was building mileage back up as I acclimated.

If I were you, I'd take it very very slow. Also, pay careful attention to stretching your calves and watching your ankles/achilles. You don't want to end up with ankle/achilles tendonitis, particularly right before a marathon.

Thanks, Selkie, for your advise. I did a 2 mile recovery run in them yesterday. I'm not quite sure how to run in them. I feel like I'm running on my tip-toes:D

[skhill]

Treadmill today. I'd forgotten how different it feels in the legs from the road! Just 3 miles, and I sure hope the weather is better tomorrow!

[katluvr]

Yes my running has been sporadic....but I was off today so set out for a run. Did my usual 4 mile loop and took it pretty slow. It is about 76 degrees here in FL and usually that is pretty nice, but the humidity is 90%. I was drenched when I finished my SLOW run.

Speaking of speed...I have felt a bit slow lately. I am sure if I look back most of my runs are a bit faster, but I don't feel that much faster. I still long for a sub 10 min mile avg, especially on my long runs. My PR for my 1/2 is 2:10. I I want to get closer or below 2 hours. And I keep reading about how at my age (I turn 48) most runners are slowing down. But I have only been running for 8 years...so have I really already peaked? I hope not. I would like to think that my lack of speed right now is that last year I did mostly LONG slow runs in the heat and endurance building runs and little speed work and the fact that I have gained 6 pounds since Aug. (post Pikes Peak eating & drinking).

So it is time for a "training plan" and some real speed work. Jan. is a 5K that last year I finally did under 30 min so I will work to beat that and Feb is a 1/2 that I hope to set a new PR...looking at the 2 hour mark

K

[skhill]

Katluvr, there are a bunch of women in their 50s around here who are seriously fast. Most 5Ks, they post better times than any women in her late 30s or 40s. So I'm hoping for a sudden burst of speed in about 10 years time! And it was a huge thrill when I beat one of them this year-- passed her in a sprint to the finish line.

When I stepped outside with the dog first thing this morning and saw the weather forcast was correct, I was grinning. Decent running weather for the first time in almost a week! Just about jumped into my running clothes. Did about 5 miles; about .75 mile in, I realized I was at a sub-9 minute pace for the first time in a while. Slowed down after a while, but the 9:05 pace over the run was faster than I've run lately.

[jessmarimba]

So I've been in hiding as well, but I wanted to come back and report that I ran the Richmond half marathon last weekend. Until I ended up with bronchitis 3 weeks ago, my goal time was 2:03ish (I wanted to beat the full marathon world record time) or 2:00 as a stretch goal. By race day, I would've been happy to beat my last road half PR (2:09:33)

Well, I finished in 1:59:31. Woohoo!! Beat the stretch goal and beat my last PR by 10 minutes. Pretty sure I ran the entire race about 30-45 seconds/mile faster than I'd been training. I ran faster than I've run since I moved to Denver and faster than I've done any race longer than a 10K.

I've decided that I don't think I like the Kinvaras anymore though. The point at the toes doesn't match the shape of my foot, and I had some NASTY blisters on my bigger foot (and yes, the shoes are plenty big). They squish my toes in weird directions - I ended up with a quarter-sized blood blister on the inside of my foot and blisters between several of my toes. Might go for the Brooks Pure-whatever next.

For any of you east-coast runners, I love the Richmond full/half. I'm probably biased since I grew up there, but I think its great how much of the community comes out to cheer and volunteer. I had a smile on my face the entire time I was running.

[Bike Chick]

katluvr, I didn't start running until I was 50 so that probably means that I started after my peak:eek: I'm terribly slow but am improving. There are a group of women in my age group that I race against that will ALWAYS beat me. They are really fast and continue to train and get faster. One of them took third place in the mile at the 2011 National Senior Olympics; she's 60. I helped a 70 year old woman in T1 at the Florida Ironman; it was her first Ironman. These women amaze and inspire me. Maybe you just need to concentrate on speed work for a while and see if that helps. I think you can get faster if you try but imo a 2:10 hm is pretty awesome! I just keep telling myself that age is just a number.

Congratulations on your pr Jess! That's a 10 minute improvement. Great job.

[yellow]

katluvr, I didn't start running until I was 50 so that probably means that I started after my peak:eek:

Respectfully disagree! Google Helen Klein. I don't think she started running until she was well into her 50s and was a smoker before that to boot.

She is an amazing woman and a great role model for all women, not just those in the digits above 49.

And Jess, are you in the Kinvara or the Kinvara 2? I tried on the 2 a while back and it is much wider in the toebox. I hated it for other reasons, but word is that the toe issue you describe was a common complaint. Hence the change.

[skhill]

Woke up this morning thinking of all the stuff I needed to do before heading out to a 10am meeting (mostly, rolling out and shaping and baking 2 dozen croissants), and my first instinct was to skip the run. But I went out anyway, hoping it would lower the stress level. It was a good call! I've gotten done everything I needed to, even given the dog a nice walk, and still have time to sit down at the computer.

It was a windy 4 miles this morning, but I was able to do 2 into the wind then get blown home for 2 miles. Saw the first house with Christmas lights of the season, and I think I've pinpointed the location of the illegal rooster in the neighborhood. (Our zoning allows for 5 chickens per house, but NO ROOSTERS!!).

[jessmarimba]

And Jess, are you in the Kinvara or the Kinvara 2? I tried on the 2 a while back and it is much wider in the toebox. I hated it for other reasons, but word is that the toe issue you describe was a common complaint. Hence the change.

Kinvara 2. It's wide enough, I'd guess, just the wrong shape for my feet. Plus I can't keep my feet from slipping forward into the pointy section, even with them laced the way I like. Part of being a midfoot striker, I guess, is that when you land more toward the front of your shoe your feet want to go to that part of the shoe. Gravity sucks :)

Went out and did 6-ish this morning despite the fact that it was 25 when I got up. Our faster girl caught us with 2 miles to go (she was at the end of a 17-miler) and I managed to pace her to the end, leaving the rest of the group behind. So I'm going to try to run the last 6-8 of her 18 miler with her next weekend. It'll push me and it'll help her finish, b/c doing long runs alone just isn't fun.

[Veronica]

Did intervals this morning - 4 x .75 mile with 4 minutes rest between. My Garmin was suppose to beep at me to keep me between 9:00 and 9:15, but it didn't beep. "jhunhyu!" Cassie Cat just interjected this as she walked across my keyboard. :D

Anyway, with no beeper I ended up doing my repeats between 8:20 and 8:40. So, I'm very glad it didn't beep. :p

Veronica

[emily_in_nc]

Did my usual beach path run this morning, which is in the 3.1 to 3.5 mile range; I am never exactly sure. Pretty good run but a hot morning - already 83F when I got home around 8 am! Next Sunday I will be doing a 5K for charity down here, my first official 5K event. I am slow as mud so my time won't be anything to write home about, but I am interested to see how many women in my age bracket even sign up...if three or fewer sign up, I guess I'll place! :D

[Bike Chick]

I ran 18 long, ugly miles yesterday. You know when you start a run and it just doesn't feel good? Well that's the run I had yesterday and it got worse as I ran instead of better. I finished it but walked the last mile. I'm thinking it may have been a nutrition issue. It's my first marathon so these are things I have to learn. Next week is 20 miles so it will be another test. Any marathoners out there willing to give me some pointers on nutrition on the run? My tummy doesn't like any solid food pre-run so I've been sticking to yogurt before I run then I take perpetuem in my race belt and do a gel ever 4-5 miles. It worked fine for my 16 mile run but felt like I had bonked during the 18 mile run. It was a miserable day.

[yellow]

Well, BC, you are experimenting, which is what you need to do! Maybe it was just an off day. Any number of factors can contribute. Hormones, hydration, attitude, alignment of the planets. And for the record, there is nothing wrong with taking walk breaks throughout the run. It probably won't affect your overall time that much and it gives your body a little break. Unless you are racing to win, of course :p

My hunch is that you might not be taking in enough fuel. What is the timing of your gel? Is the interval more than 40-45 minutes? Every person is different, but as an example, I fuel every 30 minutes (I try for 20 to 30 g of carbohydrates at each fueling) whether I think I need it or not (and I normally start the solid fuel at 1 hour). I cannot remember the last time I bonked and I never feel like I am getting too much fuel (the exception to that being events where I tend to get off because the aid station spacing never matches my regime). Is your gel plus the Perpetuem approaching 55 to 60 g/hour? It's a fine line: too many calories and your body can't process (with the standard reaction being GI distress). Too little and you suffer miles later.

However, given that you felt bad from the start, maybe what was affecting you is what you ate (or did not eat) the day before or the two days before. Are you getting enough low GI carbohydrate (enough to recover in between your long runs)? I've found that can make a big difference. I think that's more important than what you might eat immediately before you go for a run.

Good luck with your 20. It's hard. I don't care what anybody says. I hope it is better than yesterday's run!

[jessmarimba]

Bike chick, food really can be pretty personal. But I find that I can't stomach too much sugary food while running - after awhile, I don't want anything more sweet. And then I don't eat as much as I need to to keep going. It sounds weird, but I like homemade baked potato wedges or slices with a little salt. They're soft, they don't stick in your teeth, and they don't taste like sugar. (My sister does french fries, but cold french fries just taste gross to me!)

My best guess on what happened towards the end is that you didn't fuel enough in the beginning. The first hour and a half or so I don't really feel the need to eat and then when I do, it's too late. It's tough to train yourself to eat when you really don't want anything.

[Bike Chick]

Thanks so much Jess and Yellow. That's such good advice and the same thing DH pointed out. I've done 4 half marathons and could get through by doing a couple of gels. I'm realizing that's not the case training for a marathon and I think you are both exactly right. My stomach doesn't really tolerate anything solid prior to my runs so I've been just been eating yogurt before my runs and then I do a gel every hour. Its obvious to me that I'm not taking in enough calories. I also lost 2 pounds last week and wonder if that had something to do with it.

I'm going to be more concious of my nutrition through the week and take in more calories before and during the run and see if that makes a difference. I really don't want to suffer through another run like I did yesterday.

[GLC1968]

BC - I have no advice about long run nutrition since I haven't ever run that far myself! Another way to get in more calories before hand might be to put that yogurt into a smoothie with some fruit and maybe some protein. I've been using smoothies before my longer runs lately and it's working out really well for me.


Today we had our Chi Running clinic. It went really well. It confirmed a lot of what I already knew, taught me a few new drills, and reminded me of a lot of form points that I really hadn't been thinking about lately. A couple of reminders and my running felt just awesome! I'm really looking forward to my next run on Tuesday!

[jessmarimba]

After you mentioned the clinics I looked up the ChiRunning clinics here. The cost is outrageous! I wish I could take one but they are $225 here (I think? Maybe $250) for one day. I'm glad it was useful and maybe some day I'll get to try one but I feel like that's just insane.

[7rider]

Watched my ChiRunning DVD for a refresher and then went out and did 4.2 miles yesterday on a MUT. Had a metronome playing in my ear, tapping out 78 rpm cadence. That's a bit faster than my normal plodding 76, and I'm trying to train myself to have faster leg turnover.
But my leg stride remains too long, I think, as my splits were all under 11 (that's about race pace for me, and not what I intended for this training run). It was an exhausting effort, and I ended up stopping a few times (okay, I hit stop on my Garmin on the side of the trail those times...is that cheating?) just to catch my breath. I'm really not used to such a constant level of effort in my cadence. So much for the endurance I thought I had from riding bikes all season.
I'm such a stupid runner. At least nothing hurt at the end of it. So that was a positive step for my back issue.

[GLC1968]

Jess - that's about right, actually. Ours was $100 for a half-day clinic. I think that a half day was enough to supplement the book. Without having read the book, I would think you'd probably want more instruction.

7rider - my DH has an 80 bpm stride. He was one of the slower ones in the group yesterday (in stride, not in speed) and could not seem to hit the 90 bpm cadence. As a quick drill for him, the instructor set the metronome to 110 bpm and we all tried to match it for half a lap...it was hard! Then she dropped it back down to 90 and lo and behold, he was able to hit 90 with no trouble. Then when she did the video of us, he used a metronome set to 90 and was not only able to hit the beat, but his form was greatly improved right away. He had significantly less over-striding than he'd had just 30 minutes earlier!

It might be worth trying it out.

[Veronica]

I did a seven mile run with Thom this morning. It was nice to have someone running with me on a longer run. I usually do those by myself.

Veronica

[jessmarimba]

The price might be right, but that's still ridiculous. I run because it's affordable. I could do a weekend bike clinic at that price.

Funny...the local ChiRunning coach is also a Newton running coach. And the Newton clinics at their factory are free, last I checked. Only 2 hours, but still.

[GLC1968]

Funny...the local ChiRunning coach is also a Newton running coach. And the Newton clinics at their factory are free, last I checked. Only 2 hours, but still.

Yeah, it is pricey. It's way more affordable than Total Immersion clinics though! :eek: I almost had a heart attack when I looked up one of those.

[jessmarimba]

Just did 7-ish with a friend who was going for 18. She's generally a little faster than I am but either she was slow since I met her for the last 7, or I've gotten faster than I think I am, but most of the run I was a step or two ahead of her. Not enough to drag her but enough to motivate, I think. Interesting change as I'm usually the one getting pulled along on a long run :)

Anyway, beautiful weather here, hope you all are enjoying Thanksgiving!

[indysteel]

I ran for a solid hour today. No stopping. That's big for me. Yay!

[OakLeaf]

I did a 5K Turkey Trot not too far from me. Considering the pizza and beer I had last night I didn't run half bad, either. :p The race is a benefit for the local food pantry and it just keeps getting bigger - they said 1600 entrants, although I don't think anywhere near that many actually ran. It was a fun way to start the day. :)

[VeganBikeChick]

I ran for a solid hour today. No stopping. That's big for me. Yay!

Indy, that's awesome. WTG!

I did my first 10k last night. My timing was awful but the calorie burn was huge. So proud of this feat - never thought it possible :)

[indysteel]

Indy, that's awesome. WTG!

I did my first 10k last night. My timing was awful but the calorie burn was huge. So proud of this feat - never thought it possible :)

Right back at you! Way to go on the 10k!

[OakLeaf]

Way to go indy and VeganBikeChick!

I was thinking in the shower about the discussion of the cost of the Chi Running workshops. IMO the instruction is worth every penny, but I barely ran at all before I learned Chi Running, and when I think about what it's cost me in entry fees and hotels before the longer races.... okay, it is outrageous. :p

[jessmarimba]

Way to go indy and VeganBikeChick!

I was thinking in the shower about the discussion of the cost of the Chi Running workshops. IMO the instruction is worth every penny, but I barely ran at all before I learned Chi Running, and when I think about what it's cost me in entry fees and hotels before the longer races.... okay, it is outrageous. :p

I've at least saved a lot of money there! I used to run all of the club races in VA, except the ones I volunteered at. They weren't expensive but I bet they added up! But since I've moved to CO I've gone from mid-pack to back-of-the-pack (at the same pace) and I just don't want to race out here. I haven't done a road race besides the Richmond full and half since I moved. I think I've done 5 trail races, and two of those were in VA.

(So to save money racing, move to state where everyone runs at a 7:30 pace!)

[Selkie]

DH and I started off Thanksgiving Day with the local Turkey Trot. Despite the cold weather, it was very well attended and the route was hilly. There were a lot of families participating, so I had to dodge around kids, stollers, & pooches. I was in dog lover heaven and collected a lot of canine kisses before and after the race. The race is truly a community event, and just about the entire course was lined with folks cheering you on.

Since it was so cold, I had a creaky start, but after I warmed up, I set an increasingly blistering (for me) pace--8:54 min mile. I placed 15th in my age division, 538 out of 2,461 runners. I have to admit that I'm pretty shocked. This is a faster pace than when I was a regularly running half-marathons--more than 10 years ago!

Despite the pleasant surprise of my results, I'm not competitive and am entering these races for the fun of it.

Hope to register for an 8K Jingle Bell run in DC during December. :-)

[Bike Chick]

Some friends of ours invited some people over Thanksgiving morning for a 3-8 mile run. The invite was sent by text message and we good pass it along to whoever we wanted. All they asked was for everyone to bring canned goods for the local food pantry. Thirty people showed up! DH and I ran the 6 mile loop and stayed for an hour of coffee and fellowship afterward. It was a lot of fun.

[OakLeaf]

BikeChick, that's so cool! I just read about how a similar get-together in Florida has grown to 400 runners. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/os-turkey-trot-food-bank-20111122,0,7932268.story

[katluvr]

Started yesterday with a 5K Turkey Trot. I missed it last year for the first time since I started doing it in 2004. So it was extra nice to be there and the weather was awesome.
Worked today (Black Friday) and will work tomorrow, but have another "fun" 5K scheduled with a brewery sponsor. So I am getting my runs in, more slow than a race and food and/or beer involved!:D

K

[jessmarimba]

Tried running today. Ran out 3, walked back (and timed it so I finished with our running group perfectly).

Guess it's time to get the tendonitis taken care of. Now I need to find a PT or doctor who isn't going to immediately scream "ORTHOTICS" at me. I think it's a leg length issue, so orthotics in both shoes is not the answer.

[Veronica]

2.8 mile run today at 9:22 average pace. It's a super flat run though, only 80 feet of elevation gain in the whole thing! :D

Still the first time I did - last Oct. it took me nearly 33 minutes - 26:15 today.

Veronica

[solobiker]

Nice 4 mile run early this morning (630am). The temp felt great.. I think the it was in the low 20s. I was planning on going for 6 miles but my hamstrings said no way. Oh well.

[VeganBikeChick]

Just did a 3 mile run today on the treadmill.

A question for all you runners out there - I'm left-side dominant and notice when I run on the treadmill, my left leg does all the work and is always sore when I finish, my other leg is just fine. I posted this question on a running website, and was told it's very common to have a "power" side and a "skill" side and that physical therapy could help me with this issue. However, I think it will be all but impossible to get a referral to physical therapy for something related to sports activity, when my leg doesn't bother me any other time. Any ideas?

[OakLeaf]

A chiropractor should be able to refer you. I don't think you can have that marked of a strength difference without the bones being pulled out of whack.

[GLC1968]

I've been doing a lot of running lately! Three miles on the treadmill on Wednesday night as my tempo run. 5 miles on Thursday in the pouring rain and driving wind before a lovely dinner. Friday I did 3 miles with my husband and we both were focusing on our Chi Running techniques. It was really nice out, so we had fun.

Today was my long run of the week. Actually, it was supposed to be tomorrow, but since it was dry and almost sunny today, I wanted to take advantage of it. 11 miles and they pretty much all sucked. I guess this will just make the next good run feel spectacular in comparison?! ;)

[jessmarimba]

Just did a 3 mile run today on the treadmill.

A question for all you runners out there - I'm left-side dominant and notice when I run on the treadmill, my left leg does all the work and is always sore when I finish, my other leg is just fine. I posted this question on a running website, and was told it's very common to have a "power" side and a "skill" side and that physical therapy could help me with this issue. However, I think it will be all but impossible to get a referral to physical therapy for something related to sports activity, when my leg doesn't bother me any other time. Any ideas?

Does your insurance require a referral? Because as I understand, Washington State does not require a referral to see a physical therapist. (It's a "direct-access" state, like Colorado).

[VeganBikeChick]

Thanks so much for your reply, Jess.

I looked up my insurance benefits information, and while it doesn't look like I need a referral, it also doesn't look like it would be covered. They state:


• Services are to restore and significantly improve function that was previously present but
lost due to acute injury or illness,
• Services are not for palliative, recreational, relaxation or maintenance therapy, and
• Loss of function was not the result of a work-related injury.


Boo.

[VeganBikeChick]

A chiropractor should be able to refer you. I don't think you can have that marked of a strength difference without the bones being pulled out of whack.

Thanks, Oak. Unfortunately chiropractors scare me after a coworker of mine needed back surgery following a severe mishap with one.

[Bike Chick]

I ran 21 miles yesterday and it went fairly well. I experimented with my nutrition so I wouldn't bonk like last week. I took in a total of 800 calories over 5 hours and even though I felt like I was eating the whole time, it paid off. I was still feeling pretty good at 20 miles--so good that my training partner and I were singing and dancing like Rocky with our hands in the air when we hit 20 miles. Two hours later I crashed and I'm still pretty sore but I'm really proud of my accomplishment. It was a confidence builder and as long as I don't injure myself, I shouldn't have any problem finishing the marathon. Next week is the St. Jude half marathon so I'm going to rest and take it easy this week and try to heal these legs!

[jessmarimba]

Thanks so much for your reply, Jess.

I looked up my insurance benefits information, and while it doesn't look like I need a referral, it also doesn't look like it would be covered. They state:


• Services are to restore and significantly improve function that was previously present but
lost due to acute injury or illness,
• Services are not for palliative, recreational, relaxation or maintenance therapy, and
• Loss of function was not the result of a work-related injury.


Boo.

That is boo. :(

I guess I haven't looked very closely at mine, but I keep ending up with tendonitis and I guess that legitimately counts as an injury. I need to find someone who does gait analysis, though. My usual PT (since my back injury) is a figure-skater and she's a little lost when it comes to running problems.

[katluvr]

Ran a fun 5k last night, did it at slow pace w/ friends. It was a craft beer festival so tasty beer afterwards. (Didn't get a pic to post in the toast thread, though!).
Got up and ran 4 miles today. No real plan, just ran. Then I sat down and figured out I have 11 weeks til the 1/2 Marathon that I want to PR in. Not much time to get speed up. I want to get under 2:10 and as close to 2 hours as possible. So I found this plan I saved from Women's Running to PR at a half. So I am ramping up mileage a bit AND speed tomorrow. Not sure I can tempo run at the pace they suggest to get my PR, but I'll try to get close to it and keep working on my speed. We shall see!

Veronica,
I notice when I run hills that I have a "power leg". It is my right leg. I'm left handed so don't know if that is why. It is probably also the leg I use to "step up" on things, too. So it is naturally that leg. I do feel my "gait" get off when I am over due for a massage. After he works out my back for a couple of hours I usually have less of a "hitch" in my gait and probably run a bit more equal in strength w/ my legs. Not sure, just my self-assessment.

K

[7rider]

Ugh.
Been trying to up my mileage by 0.5 miles each weekend, in preparation for the 5-mile Celtic Solstice run coming up on the 18th. Today was 4.5ish.
Also, been running to the beat of a metronome to increase leg turnover speed. It's been exhausting.
Last night, had turkey fried rice for dinner (trying to find creative ways to eat up the holiday leftovers). Rice + morning = not a happy customer for me. Needless to say, I was ... um.. drained by the time I met a friend for this run.
And it wiped me out.
So discouraging. HR spiked (at one point, it said 202, but I don't believe it...but it makes me think of my other running friend and her heart issues). I actually stopped and sat down on a storm drain cover for a bit to ponder my sorry state. :mad:
I am waiting for the day when I become a runner. In the meantime, I will be a plodding, suffering, jogger who sorely needs a good a-ha moment to make running work for me.

[Veronica]

Keep at it seven! It took me a long time to decide that I was a runner. For the ah ha came when I set reasonable goals and expectations. I hope you find the magic soon!

Veronica

[emily_in_nc]

I did my first organized 5K today! Turnout was low, so as I suspected, I was the only woman in my age group (46-54), so I won it by default. Even though I was slower than most of the veteran runners in this race, I still had my best ever time (compared to treadmill, trail runs, beach runs, and road runs in the past) for this distance -- 30:28, for a 9:50 pace. Yes, it's slow, but for me, it's awesome!

Even better, my DH came in FIRST overall! He's going to be 58 next Saturday, and there were certainly younger male runners, so I was sooooo proud of him! He did it in 23:16. It's his first organized running event in over 25 years, but he ran track in his young days and has always done well at running. Where I struggle with every stride, it comes easily to him. Lucky guy.

I am super motivated now and want to do more 5Ks to try to get my time under 30 minutes. Unfortunately, there are few organized running events here on the island, so it may be awhile until my next chance.

[emily_in_nc]

I am waiting for the day when I become a runner. In the meantime, I will be a plodding, suffering, jogger who sorely needs a good a-ha moment to make running work for me.

I can totally relate, 7rider! I would describe myself similarly. I have been a cyclist for years and a very irregular runner/jogger. It's never come easily to me as it seems to come to others. It's miserable much of the time, actually.

BUT, I think my "a-ha moment", as you say, came today when I completed my first organized 5K. It was hard, hot, and sweaty, and I was one of the slowest runners, but it really changed my attitude about running.... I suffered, but I was very proud to finish and actually set a PR.

You'll have your moment too. Hang in there! :)

[VeganBikeChick]

Congrats, Emily! That's great!

I've been invited out for a social run on Thursday, just a 3 miler around the lake. I have a VERY slow pace, and really want to go, but I've never met these people before, don't want anyone to feel like they have to run with me, but also don't want to be the outcast because I can't keep up with the group. Decisions, decisions.

[Veronica]

Congrats, Emily! That's great!

I've been invited out for a social run on Thursday, just a 3 miler around the lake. I have a VERY slow pace, and really want to go, but I've never met these people before, don't want anyone to feel like they have to run with me, but also don't want to be the outcast because I can't keep up with the group. Decisions, decisions.

I say go! Sometimes running with someone just a little faster, makes you a little faster. :D

Veronica

[emily_in_nc]

Congrats, Emily! That's great!

I've been invited out for a social run on Thursday, just a 3 miler around the lake. I have a VERY slow pace, and really want to go, but I've never met these people before, don't want anyone to feel like they have to run with me, but also don't want to be the outcast because I can't keep up with the group. Decisions, decisions.

Do it! You'll never know until you try, and even if you end up last and running alone, at least you got out there, which is more than 99% of people would do.

Believe me, I was nervous about even attempting this 5K today. Sure, I've run that distance many, many times in training, but I was afraid it would be much harder on race day, I'd freeze up or something. I knew I would be one of the last finishers. But you know what, it doesn't matter. I still had a blast and feel great about it!

Good luck and let us know how it goes. Do it do it do it! :D

[emily_in_nc]

By the way, if anyone wants to read the excruciating details, or (more likely) see the photos from a 5K in Belize, I wrote it up on our blog:

http://bebelize.weebly.com/1/post/2011/11/5k-run-for-mama-vilmas-family-home.html

Emily

[GLC1968]

Awesome job, Emily!

7rider - I didn't feel like a runner (ie, I never started enjoying my runs) until I started upping my mileage and running more often. I think it was the week I got up to 20 miles per week by running every day that it hit me that I was having a lot of good runs and that I was starting to *crave* a run! I'd heard that would be the case, but I never believed it until it happened to me.


Now I have plenty of lousy runs, but they only serve to make the good ones seem even more special. ;) Oh, and I'm still slow, but improving...

[Crankin]

Congratulations, Emily. I feel just like you; I'll never feel "good" while running. But, although I am on an extended forced rest from running due to a probable stress fracture, it's nice to hear about others' adventures. I've certainly had the urge to run, which must count for something. But, I am going to wait, probably until the spring or late winter to start up again, so I can enjoy my winter sports.

[VeganBikeChick]

Thanks for all the encouragement! Just put in my yes.

[jessmarimba]

Running doesn't feel "fun" to me until 5 miles becomes easy. Fortunately I know now that once I reach that point, it becomes a lot less sucky, but the first couple times i started from scratch I found running to be miserable for a long time.

I still prefer company to do more than 8. For me, people are a better distraction than an ipod or anything else.

(Got back out on the bike today for the first time since I raced a couple months ago. Ugh. Unfortunately my biking probably feels like running to you. Baby steps...)

[emily_in_nc]

Thanks for all the encouragement! Just put in my yes.

Yay, VBC! Proud of you... :)

[emily_in_nc]

Running doesn't feel "fun" to me until 5 miles becomes easy. Fortunately I know now that once I reach that point, it becomes a lot less sucky, but the first couple times i started from scratch I found running to be miserable for a long time.

Good point, Jess. I think I am at the point now where I need to increase my distance, even though 3.5-ish (my usual training run MWF) is still somewhat difficult. It wouldn't be *that* much harder to do 4, and maybe eventually 5. I don't know that it will ever be *easy*, but the easiest it's going to get is during the cool season here (Jan-Mar), so if I can't do it then, I probably never will.

I know what my NY's resolution will be this year! :rolleyes:

[7rider]

Thanks, all. It's good to know that I'm not alone and that my feelings aren't that unusual. I keep hoping that a 3-mile run will get "easy" (will if ever???). I figure if I hit that milestone, things may start clicking. Or something. I'm just not commited enough to run EVERY day. Training for this event has me solidly in a 3-days/week schedule, but with bike commuting, weekend rides, yoga, my strength work, oh, and a full time job, there are only so many hours - and so much energy - to dedicate to sport. And I don't even have any kids. I don't know how ironman athletes train and keep a home standing. I get tired just thinking about it.

It's great to read about all of your challenges - and accomplishments! You folks are inspiring. Keep up the excellent work.

Thanks!

[Bike Chick]

Great job, Emily, and congrats to your hubby. We run about the same pace so I know how good it feels to get a PR. I looked at your pictures and it's absolutely beautiful down there.

[Veronica]

Drizmal - I have a hard time getting out the door to exercise once we enter drizmal season. That's what I call it when it's sunny just over the hills, but we're socked in with river fog - for DAYS on end.

Anyway... managed to get out the door this morning for 3 miles with Thom. He did intervals, I just ran. My head and neck still hurt from my stupid fall on Saturday.

Veronica

[emily_in_nc]

Great job, Emily, and congrats to your hubby. We run about the same pace so I know how good it feels to get a PR. I looked at your pictures and it's absolutely beautiful down there.

Thanks Bike Chick! It really is. :)

7rider, my DH only runs 3x a week and still won the race and finds running "easy", so it's not necessary to run daily to do well at it. In fact, I think it's probably safer not to -- less risk of injuries if you do different workouts throughout the week. I cycle, do yoga/lates and light weight-training as well, so a 3x a week running schedule works well for me -- and not on consecutive days.

[katluvr]

About runs feeling easy...just when they do you try to amp up the speed. So, yes, eventually they feel easier, but like I said then you try to get a new PR!

Speaking of upping my speed, did my first run of my new plan to get faster. So it was a tempo run and I my goal was 9:30 - 9:50 pace for 1 mile, 1/2 mile recovery and then another mile at tempo pace. And I CAN run 9:30. Not real steady w/ my pace, thank goodness for my garmin, but I can do it. What I really need to run is 9 or sub 9, but I'll get there. At least I think I can. Overall 4 miles w/ warm up and cool down.

Next week I need to do the full 2 miles at tempo pace... hope I can hang in there!

K

[skhill]

It's been raining yet again, so I didn't run the past two days. I was planning on heading over to the Y and using the treadmill this morning, but we had a break in the rain! It was just a slushy drizzle, and it felt good to be out running in it. Wore my merril minimalist shoes for the first time, and my feet were warmer and dryer than in the VFFs. But I did cut it off at 3 miles, because I couldn't see through my rain-streaked glasses in the dark, and couldn't see well enough to run without them.

[Bike Chick]

Well we had our first snow of the season yesterday :( It wasn't cold enough to last but it was frozen precipitation so I did my 2 mile run on the treadmill. My legs are so sore from my long run Saturday I could hardly make it a mile. I got off and jumped on the eliptical to finish up. I sure hope they heal up. St. Jude half marathon is this Saturday.

Good job on the speed work, katluvr! Isn't it a cool feeling to break that 10mm pace?

[OakLeaf]

Yeah, isn't that a saying they put on T-shirts? "It never gets easier. You get faster."

Not just because you're continuing to work (although obviously that's most of it) - but because when you do run what you think "ought" to be an easy pace and distance, you do it because you're struggling with something else, whether it's a change in the weather, stress or other emotional stuff, health or injury trouble, whatever - so it still feels hard. I do love to run in a lot of ways, but in all my miles I've experienced the vaunted "runner's high" exactly twice (and the last time was before I started training for anything).

It's been cold and rainy here too, and I just haven't had the motivation. Plus it's deer gun season, which even though I always wear a hi-viz jersey and a hunter's orange visor just on account of cars, can still be nerve-wracking. We got a break in the weather late yesterday and I kicked myself out the door for a quick six while there was still daylight, and glad of it too.

I need a goal... should just go ahead and sign up for that Illinois marathon.

ETA - done. Also signed up for a Level II Chi Running workshop. :)

[indysteel]

I bit the bullet yesterday and joined our town's rec center. It's not exactly what I'm looking for in a gym in that its group class schedule is pretty limited and you have to pay extra for them anyway. But it's a place to run when the weather is nasty that's two blocks from my house. I did 30 minutes on the treadmill yesterday. It was boring, but it was raining and sleeting outside so it was a decent alternative.

[Veronica]

I finished up my monthly mileage goal yesterday. That's 14 months straight of making my goal. It's a very modest goal, but it's achievable while allowing me to skip runs if work or life get in the way. And I've seen so much progress. I don't think I've had a runner's high, but I do enjoy running now.


Veronica

[solobiker]

Short 3 mile run today before the cold and snow come into town. Today it was in the low 60s and sunny...by tomorrow it is supposed to be a high of 20 with up to 8 inches of snow:D

[emily_in_nc]

3.6 mile beach run this morning. Every muscle in my body was sore, or so it felt, after my first, very intense, 90-minute yoga class yesterday. Hamstrings were especially sore, along with mid-back muscles. But the run felt okay. Temperature was a bit cooler than it has been (70), but with full sun, I still sweated quite a bit.

[limewave]

I've taken the better part of two months off and am trying to kick-start my running season by doing yasso 800's today. My goal was to do a set of 5. Well, after the second one I was ready to call it quits!!!!

And then I imagined Veronica next to me. And remembered her post about the push ups and pull ups. Then I thought, what would V do?

For the remaining 3 800's I pictured V running next to me and taunting--in the style of Bob or Jillian from Biggest Loser. And then once I finished my 800's I thought V would surely push herself not to her limits, but beyond. And so I did an extra 400.

Thanks Veronica for being so inspiring!

[Veronica]

And then I imagined Veronica next to me. And remembered her post about the push ups and pull ups. Then I thought, what would V do?

Thanks Veronica for being so inspiring!

Wow! You made my day! It sounds silly, but I want to be inspiring, to my students, to the people at my gym, to you guys... to myself. :D

Glad I helped you make it through a tough workout.

Veronica

[Blueberry]

Veronica-

I'm another who has been inspired by you. You have a great mix of being tough and being encouraging. It's gotten me out on a ride more than once (and will get my butt on the trainer this afternoon).

Please keep posting:)

[indysteel]

Me, too! I've mentioned in the past that one of your posts from last fall/winter inspired me to start running again last January. I tried to find teh exact post, but couldn't. But I distinctly remember sitting on my couch on Martin Luther King Day while reading your post and thinking "you can do that too; get off your butt!" And I did. Sadly, I had to quite running over the summer when my thyroid was hyperactive, but the minute it was under control, I hit the road again. I also just signed on with a personal trainer recently. It's only one day a week, but I'm really excited about it. We're two sessions in and I can already see a bit more definition in my arms.

Many of the ladies here on TE are truly inspiring, but I do find your candor (pics included) about going from out of shape back into shape to be particularly inspiring.

[colby]

I third/fourth/fifth/tenth V's awesomeness!

As for my running...

I ran the Seattle Marathon's half marathon this Thanksgiving weekend. I cut 13 minutes off my time from a few years back when I ran it after recovering from my hip problems and finished in 2:19 (usually I run the full, and I'd got my time down to 4:20ish, but the second half is pretty flat). Not awesome, but still good for a hilly half 3 weeks after an Ironman! I was more sore than I expected for a few days afterward, finally back to walking and feeling normal today. ;) I am so glad I didn't run the full. It was also pretty wet and starting to get windy, though the temperature was nice.

Next stop... I don't know. Enjoying the holidays and winter running when I'm in the place where winter actually happens, then base building, I guess. Thinking about running the Austin Marathon or likely the Half, February 19, since part of my time is in Austin. Running in the winter there should make it bearable.

[Veronica]

Wow! Thanks you guys. I'm really touched. This was a great pick-me-up after a rough day with my kiddos.

Veronica

[OakLeaf]

+1. Never doubt it, V. You are awesome.

[VeganBikeChick]

Good for you, colby! The weather was miserable. I'm impressed!

[colby]

Good for you, colby! The weather was miserable. I'm impressed!

The weather was awesome the rest of the weekend! They did the 5k on Saturday and even had some sunbreaks.

Oh well. At least it wasn't cold and wet snowing, with those ice cold puddles or rain pelting your face. ;) I used up all my weather karma with my Ironman races, I figure.