Running through the Tulips - April

[Selkie]

Happy April!

Started off the month with my longest run since 1996 -- seven miles. Sunrise start, kinda chilly (mid-40s) with a brisk east, chilly wind. Felt pretty good, particularly energy-wise. I had a horrible swim on Saturday and ended up napping in late morning and then sleeping 9 hours last night.

I didn't post much in March for fear of boring all of you w/my unexciting runs, but I had a good month. Consistently, I ran 4 days a week, logging between 20-25 miles total. It was fantastic, weather-wise, as I got to wear shorts a lot!!! Watching spring arrive--cherry trees in bloom, the earth greening up, blooming of daffodils, tulips, etc., has been a treat. In addition, I did well in the St. Pat's 8K in DC (placed in the top 25 in my age group), and improved my time/pace from my finish on the Jingle Bell 8k on the same race course.

[Blueberry]

There is a possibility of running in my future again (I've been banned since Halloween due to an ankle tendon issue)! Yay!! I'm supposed to start walking a lot again, and then in 2 weeks my PT will observe my running. At that point, I think I'll be able to start working towards building up again (run/walk intervals). Happy dance!!!

[Selkie]

That's terrific!

I came back from a similar injury, so you can and will do it!

[katluvr]

7 miles today. A bit slower than yesterday. First 1.6 miles in my minimalist shoes (down my street & back). I am not getting enough time/mileage in these but still building slowly. Finished the rest of the 7 in my reg shoes. Started off slow and built pace some, but not like yesterday. Last mile nice and slow cool down. Overall OK pace, but could be better. Wasn't too pooped at the end. H0pe to get in a nice bike ride this evening.

K

[limewave]

I just did 7 miles. It felt a bit stiff but it was nice to be out running again. The weather is absolutely gorgeous today.

[skhill]

My usual weekday running routes take me through parts of the University of Kentucky's campus, and I was very interested to see how trashed the place would be after last night's game (GO CATS!). Other than the aroma of spilled beer, it was looking really good; some poor folks must have been working hard to clean up after the exuberant/rowdy street parties that broke out. Didn't go through the area with the shooting and garage-burnings and general riot, though. It's supposed to be a mess...

6 miles, and I'm feeling the effects of Sat.'s HM. And it smells like I stepped in a puddle of beer in the dark...

[Bike Chick]

My training plan called for speed work yesterday. I've stayed away from any kind of serious run intervals in the past for fear of hurting myself or because I was nursing an injury so I gave this a whole-hearted try and it was actually quite fun. It kinda broke up the monotony of running the same road every day. I did 16 X 30 second intervals with 30 second recovery and a warm-up and cool-down to equal 40 minutes. My fastest interval was 7:30! I never thought I could ever run that fast--even for 30 seconds! It felt great to push myself.

[Susan Otcenas]

I'm *still* rehabbing my IT band, but I've been gradually able to add time and distance while continuing to make improvements. This past Sunday, I did my longest run since my IT started acting up: 1hr20min. I felt some tension starting to build in the IT band in the last 15-20 minutes, but no real pain. Plenty of foam rolling and I was fine the next day.

Last week I ran 5 days! This week has 4 on the calendar ranging anywhere from 20 minutes to 1hr30min. :)

[limewave]

I think I am sick in the head. I am considering running sand dunes today . . . Quick! Someone talk some sense into me!

[emily_in_nc]

I have not been able to run for awhile. Last week we were traveling, then this week I had a series of issues...hangover Mon. morning after a beach birthday party with an open bar (and wine, which I never get here since it's so $$$), then on Tuesday, a few fire ant bites on my right foot caused it to swell, and I'm still suffering from that. I guess I am really allergic. Ugh! My shoes on that foot are all too tight, and it itches like crazy, despite Benedryl, cortisone cream, and epsom salt poultices.

My friend just got back to Belize from a visit to the US and brought me my cool new running gear -- a water flask belt, a sports watch with stopwatch, and some new Swiftwick socks, and here I can't even use 'em. If my foot is better tomorrow, I will try a short run; otherwise, I'll wait for Monday as I have other activities planned for Sat. and Sun.

Feeling like a real slug... :(

[Susan Otcenas]

Today I did my longest run since injuring my IT band: 8.3 miles. I am in the aerobic base building phase right now (Hadd's Phase 1), so these are slooooow miles at very low heartrates. Today I averaged 11:28 per mile at 139bpm. It's surprisingly hard to run this easy, but that's the whole point.

[Artista]

Today I did my longest run since injuring my IT band: 8.3 miles. I am in the aerobic base building phase right now (Hadd's Phase 1), so these are slooooow miles at very low heartrates. Today I averaged 11:28 per mile at 139bpm. It's surprisingly hard to run this easy, but that's the whole point.
Now let's look at what you did through the eyes of a total newb runner. I started running "regularly" on 3/8. I'm doing a C25K program and have managed 6 runs altogether. So far I've logged a TOTAL of 8.5 miles. I started at 13:45 minutes per mile. I'm thrilled that I managed 11:59 today. It's surprisingly hard to start running even though I'm in good shape from cycling. I can't even blame an injured IT band. I can claim a broken ankle from last fall but seriously, I don't think that my ankle is responsible for my newb stats at this point.

It's all a matter of perspective;) Someday I'll be very happy to accomplish what you did today. On the other hand, I'm proud that I've run more in the last month than I have since I was 5 years old:rolleyes:

[Susan Otcenas]

It's all a matter of perspective;) Someday I'll be very happy to accomplish what you did today. On the other hand, I'm proud that I've run more in the last month than I have since I was 5 years old:rolleyes:

Artista, congratulations on starting a new running program! I used a similar program when I first started running again in 2008. First week was run 0:30, walk 4:30, do that 7 times. 35 minutes total movement (only 3:30 of which was running) and whooboy was I sore the next couple of days!! I credit that run/walk program with getting my muscles, tendons and ligaments in shape to run successfully, without any injuries! And I lost a pile of weight in the process. :)

I hope you didn't misinterpret my post to be at all demeaning towards people who are running slow-ish miles or doing run walk programs! It wasn't my intention and I guess I should clarify.... When I wrote that I'm running slow miles, what I meant is that I'm running more slowly that what I'm accustomed to, on purpose. My coach has me working through a protocol that's designed, in it's "Phase 1", to have the runner ALWAYS below her aerobic threshold. The idea is to build a massive aerobic capacity and greatly increase the amount of work that a runner can do while dumping very very little lactic acid into the system. Over time, one will be able to do more work, more quickly, while still being sub-aerobic threshold. Essentially, one is running slower to run faster!

I think most of us have a certain "cruising" pace that feels comfortable to each of us, whether that be 8 minute miles, 10 minute miles, or 12 minute miles. I used to go out and do most of my runs at a 10:30-ish pace. It just seemed to be the pace I settled into naturally. Well, according to this protocol that I'm following, that pace was too fast and my heartrate was too high. To keep my heartrate at sub-aerobic threshold levels (which for me is 143bpm or less), I need to be closer to 11:30 per mile right now. And, I've found this to be surprisingly difficult. It's getting more comfortable, since I've been doing this for ~ 2months now, but I often find myself having to dial back my pace because my heartrate is drifting up and exceeding the target. So, oftentimes I feel like I'm just sort of trudging along when my natural inclination would be to go faster. I have to admit though, that it seems to be working. When I finished that run this morning, I felt like I could have continued on for much much longer. My *legs* were starting to feel fatigued, but aerobically I felt fresh as a daisy and not tired at all. I think that's pretty cool. :)

If you're interested in reading more on the subject, the coach behind this philosophy (John "Hadd" Walsh) wrote a long paper on it. It's a bit long (OK, it's a LOT long) but it's a really interesting read if you are into that sort of thing.
http://www.angio.net/personal/run/hadd.pdf

Susan

[Artista]

I hope you didn't misinterpret my post to be at all demeaning towards people who are running slow-ish miles or doing run walk programs!
Heavens no I didn't think that you were being demeaning! I hope that I didn't sound like I was lecturing you. It just made me chuckle when I thought of you having to hold yourself back to a speed that's slightly faster than I can maintain for only 3 minutes at a time right now;) I was also trying to imply that your run is pretty impressive to a new runner. I just didn't make my point very well.

One of my goals in running is to improve my aerobic capacity for mountain biking here in Colorado. Thanks for the link to the paper. I'm always interested in learning how to work smarter, not harder.

[Crankin]

Since my TM run on Monday, which included 2 five minute intervals of running at 10:00 mm, as well as a couple of 3 minute runs at the same pace, I haven't run. I was OK when I was doing it, but I felt awful the next day. I probably won't run again until Monday.
The running at a consistent faster pace seems to bring out my fibromyalgia symptoms. I think I just need to get my body used to this level of impact exercise. We'll see.

[skhill]

It's been a very low-mileage week. Since I donated blood Tuesday, I didn't run Wednesday. Then Thurs. morning was cold and windy and rainy, and it was a very busy day, so no run. Friday was Good Friday, and running and not eating are a bad combination for me (how do Moslem runners make it through Ramadan??) so no run. But I finally got out this morning, and it felt good. Just six miles, enjoying the chilly spring morning... Didn't have much stamina and faded badly, probably due to the blood donation. Or not eating yesterday...

[solobiker]

Today I did my longest run since injuring my IT band: 8.3 miles. I am in the aerobic base building phase right now (Hadd's Phase 1), so these are slooooow miles at very low heartrates. Today I averaged 11:28 per mile at 139bpm. It's surprisingly hard to run this easy, but that's the whole point.

I have been trying this too. It sounds like we run roughly the same pace. It was tough for me to "slow" it down as I have always been one to feel comfortable running with a fairly high HR. My HR on average would be close to 165 with a max near 180 ( I am 42). Today my average HR was 140 with a max of 151...had to walk there just to drop it down. :-) Today I went on one of my longest runs in over a year. I got in 6 miles without my usual hamstring issues and feel like I could go out right now for another run.:D

[Crankin]

I spoke too soon.
I was too lazy to prepare for a ride, so I drove to flatter ground and did the same run that I did on the TM on Monday. It's definitely the heat of exercising indoors that kills me, although when it gets above 65-70 outdoors, I feel it too when running. My splits for the runs were 10:36, 9:50, 10:05, and 9:34. The first and third splits were 1/4 mile and the others were a 1/2 mile. The first half mile was slightly uphill, to avoid running on a busy road with no sidewalk.
Happy with the times and I am trying hard not to go faster.
I was able to acclimate myself to riding in hotter weather, so I guess I have to do the same thing here.

[OakLeaf]

It took me a lot of form work to be able to run slowly. As soon as I'd try to slow down, that's when the poor form would really show, and I'd pound myself to death. Learning to run slow was a prerequisite to training to run long...

Not quite 23 today. Taper starts now. I'm trying to convince myself I'm ready. I've nailed some pretty good workouts, and there was that half I ran in the fall, but I just have a lot of doubt that I've done enough for my stamina. I'm trying to keep up positive self-talk, visualizing 3:55 on that finish line clock...

[Selkie]

This past week was a repeat of the previous week. I got in three 5.4 milers at work and ran 7 miles at sunrise on Easter. Unfortunately, we are back to more seasonal weather, so it's been colder for April than it had been in March. Not unbearably cold, but chilly enough that I've had to forego shorts for knickers on my Sunday long runs. I have to keep reminding myself that it won't be long before the heat and humidity descend on us.......

[Crankin]

Did a quick run/walk this morning, without the aid of my Garmin. It was 2.2 hilly miles, mostly running, very slowly up the hill.

[Susan Otcenas]

I have been trying this too. It sounds like we run roughly the same pace. It was tough for me to "slow" it down as I have always been one to feel comfortable running with a fairly high HR. My HR on average would be close to 165 with a max near 180 ( I am 42).

You and I are the same age. My aerobic threshold is ~143, anaerobic threshold is ~169 and my max HR ~190. Before I started this protocol my runs used to average around 150 or so bpm, maybe a little higher and I rarely exceeded 160bpm at any point in a run unless I was running uphill for a sustained period. In a race, otoh, I'll easily average in the 160s.

On flat or flattish courses I've now trained myself to run slow enough on small inclines that I don't have to walk to stay under 143bpm. But on hillier courses, yup, I'm walking brief segments to keep my heart under the limit. Over time, I'll build the aerobic base where I'll be able to do those same hills *without* walking!


Today my average HR was 140 with a max of 151...had to walk there just to drop it down. :-) Today I went on one of my longest runs in over a year. I got in 6 miles without my usual hamstring issues and feel like I could go out right now for another run.:D

Awesome! That's how I felt Friday. No IT issues and felt like I could keep on going. Glad your hamstring is healing up!

[emily_in_nc]

Finally got in my first run in two weeks. I'm shifting to afternoon runs as mornings are just too hot and sunny with the sun rising so early (5:39 today) and HOT. It was 84 degrees by 7:30 am today and no breeze.

I did 3 miles on the beach, and it was still hot, sunny in places (though more shade than morning, and more breeze). Pace was 10:37.

It's a start...just glad to get back to it even though it wasn't exactly what I'd call FUN. :D

[solobiker]

Finally got in my first run in two weeks. I'm shifting to afternoon runs as mornings are just too hot and sunny with the sun rising so early (5:39 today) and HOT. It was 84 degrees by 7:30 am today and no breeze.

I did 3 miles on the beach, and it was still hot, sunny in places (though more shade than morning, and more breeze). Pace was 10:37.

It's a start...just glad to get back to it even though it wasn't exactly what I'd call FUN. :D

It does not have to be fun to be fun!!:D:D You are a far better person then me..most things in the 70s gets too hot for me. :p

[skhill]

The effects of last week's blood donation are finally wearing off :). Got out for 5 miles this morning, and it felt good. But as the sun rose, the wind started to as well-- it was an increasing headwind for the last 2 miles or so.

[limewave]

Nice and easy 4-mile run in the snow.

[skhill]

Nice and easy 4-mile run in the snow.

SNOW!?! seriously? sure it's Michigan but isn't that a bit late?

(of course, it's predicted to be cold enough for snow here in KY the next couple nights, so who knows?)

[emily_in_nc]

It does not have to be fun to be fun!!:D:D You are a far better person then me..most things in the 70s gets too hot for me. :p

Thanks, solo -- your post brought a smile to my face. I'll be hitting the beach again tomorrow. I know I need it even if it's not fun! :D

[solobiker]

I was going to run today but decided I needed to do a weight workout instead. I have neglecting the weights and core work. I did commute to/from work today and I am planning on walking to the store to get some fruits and veggies. Tomorrow I must run :-)

[limewave]

SNOW!?! seriously? sure it's Michigan but isn't that a bit late?

(of course, it's predicted to be cold enough for snow here in KY the next couple nights, so who knows?)

It is a bit late, but really, not all that unusual. In fact, I remember camping years back on Memorial Day weekend and it snowing. It's Michigan, anything can happen. It can be snowing in the morning and 70 in the afternoon.

[skhill]

Rather than dig out my winter running gear after putting it away last week, I went to the treadmill at the gym. Only went 3 miles; even though it was a slowish pace, a stitch started up at about 1 mile and I never could get it to go away. So for once I obeyed the time limit on the treadmills (although at that hour there are almost always several free and I don't feel the least bit guilty for going more than 30 min.)

But I've now logged 400 miles for 2012!

[solobiker]

Okay...I am still trying to run at a "slower" pace to train my aerobic system better. I got in about 3.5 miles. I am still not used to running with such a low heart rate. Feels great though to have lots of energy after a run.:)

[emily_in_nc]

I did another 3-mile beach run this afternoon. It seemed cool and breezy enough in our condo, but once I hit the beach (and the sun), it was very hot and tough to do -- temp was about 81-82. And my hip ached the whole time -- not my right hip that I have a plate and pines in, but the left one. Not sure what's up with that! But I got 'er done. Amazing how much harder it feels to run after only a 2.5 week layoff, but I am sure that the hotter weather has something to do with it too. I thought upper 70s were bad, but now it's even warmer! I may not be able to increase the mileage much until rainy season kicks in this summer....

[Artista]

I retired my thread about how beginning running had not been fun so that I could start posting here. I'm about 1/2 way through a C25K program and have completed many successful walk/runs.

This week I'm supposed to bump up to intervals of alternating 4 and 6 minute runs. This is more than double what I was doing last week and seems to be the biggest bump in the program. I whimped out on the first 6 minute run and cut it back to 4 minutes on Monday. Today I was able to go the whole time and managed 2 miles of walk/run intervals.

I'm still not a big fan of the running part but I love what it's doing for my hill climbing endurance on the bike:cool:

[Susan]

I think I'm up to something new regarding running.
I had to pause for some time because I hurt my knee while running. Now that I feel better, I started implementing a short run into my workouts, but just once around the block - maybe one mile or even less.
I do this after every weight or hiit training, which is on most evenings. I really like it and it seems to not take a toll on my knees or anything else. I hope it keeps me conditioned for running because I'd like to do some longer trail runs in summer.

[rubysoho]

Jumping back in the mix after a few months off from running (been busy riding my bike due to the beautiful weather).

Headed out for a trail run earlier in the week, expecting to only be out 30 minutes. Ended up being out there an additional 20 minutes :eek: because some well-meaning boyscouts had redone the running trails and made splits to create new trails but marked them the same as the old trail. I ended up getting lost which was interesting. But the overall run was awesome. Due to being lost there were quite a few moments of "stop and decide which direction to head" so I wasn't running the full 50 minutes. However, I did run quite a bit more than I expected and when I finally got back to the house I felt great! As if I could have kept going. I like that.

I think I was momentarily taken over by aliens because back in January I signed up for my first 10k (so far 5k has been my longest distance). That will be August. I also signed up for my first sprint triathlon which will be in September. AND a friend convinced me that I should run a 10 miler with him in October. :eek:

Again, I think I am going crazy. Thankfully I have LOTS of time to build up to the 10k and 10 mile distances.

[Crankin]

I finished week 4 of the C25K program, so I think I'm about a week behind Artista. I have a time constraint today, so DH and I ran as the sun came up, in the neighborhood, which means BIG HILLS. I mean, even She Fly calls my street "Aneurysm Hill Rd.," instead of its real name.
We went down a different side street, which involved running up et another short hill. But, I am surprising myself with my times which went between 9:15 and probably 10:45 on the run splits. I say probably for the last split, which was up the 10% grade and DH was wearing the Garmin, and he ran faster than me, at 10:15.
NO running this weekend. Three days of glorious warm weather riding.

[skhill]

Didn't really feel all that much like running this morning, being weighed down by ODing on half-price Easter candy. But I went anyway. There's a historic neighborhood downtown, antebellum at the southern end and victorian at the nothern end, where I run only when I don't feel like running. It's so beautiful and interesting that it turns an icky run into something pleasant. And it took me past the new microbrewery/ pub, where I found that the "coming soon" sign has been changed to "now open." Hooray! A 5 mile run, and the prospect of super-local beer tonight!

[Susan Otcenas]

Today I did my longest run since injuring my IT band: 8.3 miles. I am in the aerobic base building phase right now (Hadd's Phase 1), so these are slooooow miles at very low heartrates. Today I averaged 11:28 per mile at 139bpm. It's surprisingly hard to run this easy, but that's the whole point.

That was last week. This week's long run was on an almost identical course, but I did 8.4 miles at 11:09 per mile at an avg HR of 137. This is good. Lower heartrate, faster miles! I can't really explain the difference, other than that I may have had more sleep this week than last week. Last Thursday was a rest day and this thursday was a swim, so my legs were equally rested in preparation for both runs (I have very little kick in my swim style.)

It's interesting to me how some days feel so great, and other days like running through molasses. Sleep, hydration, nutrition, weather, apparel choice... there's so many variables!

[Crankin]

Today is the first time after a run day that I am not totally sore. I am even am thinking about running :eek:, despite the fact I was almost gasping for breath running up that 10% grade.
Looking forward to 3 days of riding, though. It's warm out.

[solobiker]

Another nice long run for me while keeping my HR down...average of 141. I am slowly getting used to running slower then I am used to. It actually feels pretty good and my hamstrings don't complain after either.:D

[emily_in_nc]

Did another 3-mile beach run late yesterday. Hot and hard, still. Hard to believe I ran 5 miles not that long ago, but that was on an overcast, cool morning. Haven't had one of those in quite some time! Pace was a little better than usual for this run at 10:20.

[Selkie]

What a week! Shorts on Monday, capris/thermal tops/capilene on Wednesday & Thursday, and shorts/t-shirt this morning! Actually, I was overdressed this morning, as I should have worn a short-sleeves instead of long! I was soaked at the end and was thankful I schlepped a water bottle with me (empty by the time I finished).

Had some back pain starting out the week but it's progressively improved. I think it was mostly due to tight hip flexors. That and being a geezer! Actually, it started last Saturday night when I slept wrong (need a new mattress).

Logged 5.4 on Monday/Wednesday/Thursday and 7 miles today. After my next race (10K on the 29th), I might slowly start adding miles on my long run again.

[OakLeaf]

I'm in a perfect storm of lack of confidence.

The depression and disorientation that always accompany moving for me, on top of taper jitters.

The physiological differences of adjusting to climate and latitude - and trying to get my taper runs done when there's no place I can go without minimum 15% grades, when I haven't run more than a couple of bridges all winter.

The usual taper aches and pains, on top of the residual neck and back trouble from my fall last month.

But I did 14.5 today at a quicker pace than my last long run in spite of the hills (including a couple of probably 20%ers). My new shoes were fine (same model as my old pair, but one of the metatarsal buttons gave me a blister the second time I ran in them, and I repositioned it not knowing either whether the adhesive would hold after having been unstuck once, or whether I'd keep getting blisters). I keep visualizing that finish line clock.

Next year in Boston.

(And sour grapes, with the weather forecast I didn't want to run it this year anyway. :p)

[Crankin]

That weather forecast is no laughing matter. They are *very* concerned, especially about the first timers and charity runners. I remember 2004, when several people got really sick and one died. They have cancelled the race because of heat before, but something tells me it won't happen. It's supposed to be 90, and I can barely ride in that, let alone run.
I'll be running at 6 AM.

[OakLeaf]

No, I know it's a real problem. They don't want a repeat of Chicago what was it, two years ago.

I just hope too many deferments don't affect next year's field... though it's early to be worrying about that I know.

[Crankin]

Started week 5 of C25K. I went out alone at 6:30 AM, to beat the heat; it was already 61 degrees and about 80% humidity, as it had rained last night, apparently. I didn't set up a new program on my Garmin, just used the pace/time/distance screen (which I can actually see) to track the distance. I did a new route where I ran down my street, into a weird (for this area) neighborhood that is more like a planned community/development in other parts of the country. While it wasn't entirely flat, it was better than doing my last half mile run interval going up a 10% grade.
So, I did 3 half mile runs interspersed with quarter mile walks, plus warm up for 5 minutes. Since I didn't have split times, I don't really know what my average was for the runs, but my overall pace was 11:20, which, I think is pretty good for including the walks.
My right hip always is achy after runs, while my left side hurts from cycling. I am now even today :).

[Selkie]

Toasty, sunny, humid 5.4 mile run mid-morning. Starting out, my legs were lead, but I got into a good rhythm. By the time I finished, I was soaked in sweat---streams of it running down my calves!

[skhill]

Ran on the track this morning for the first time in ages. No interesting speed work, I just used it to help me keep a steady (if quick) pace. The 3 miles on the track were at a 7:55 pace, the 3 miles on the streets getting there and back were much slower. It's got me feeling a bit more interested in doing my local high school's 5k this weekend...

[Susan Otcenas]

It's so odd for me to read about those of you running in heat. I would LOVE some heat to run in. Seriously, I'm always cold and I do just fine in the warm weather, and even when it's hot.

This morning I did 2600 meters in the pool, tossed on my run clothes, then went for a 40 minute run. At 7am it was only 36 degrees. My hands hurt from the cold until at least halfway through the run. Mind you, I'm wearing thermal tights, a craft baselayer, a windstopped jacket and thermal gloves with overmitts. And a hat. And wool socks. <sigh> I don't run without a jacket or vest until it's at least 55 degrees, and it has to be 60 or so before I can run in short sleeves. Even then, I need to carry (and often wear) some light gloves.

As for the run, it kinda sucked. Some days I just don't seem to have any flow.

[OakLeaf]

I went out with basically three purposes today: a short tempo segment, recalibrate my footpod which hadn't been working right at all since I moved it to the new shoes, and test out a fueling setup for the race (Nathan Gel Pak (http://nathansports.com/our-products/runners-paks-music-carriers/runners-paks/gel-pak) which I love love love, plus my newer Hydrapak soft flask (http://www.hydrapak.com/soft-flask/) - both of which I've reviewed here).

Bottom line - my footpod was even farther off than I thought; the gel flask worked okay and didn't chafe on this short run, and was a bit more accessible than the hard flask in the same pack; and the pace felt really good. Threw in a few pick-ups on the last segment, yip yip yip. I'm going to test out the flask one more time before I make a final decision on gear. I know the hard flask works in that pack over a half marathon distance anyway, but it's a bit harder to get to.

Then I came home and went through my old training logs, which I should've done already. Turns out the 14.5 I did on Sunday was the same loop I did two weeks out from Columbus marathon in '10. And although it was a little harder this time than I would've liked to have done in a taper, this time I ran it quicker ... by almost the exact difference in pace that I'm going to have to run the race vs. my overall average pace in Columbus, to meet my goal this time. :D :D

This afternoon I'm seeing a new chiropractor (did I mention I hate moving?). The longer this goes on the more I think it's a collarbone that's out, maybe a scapula as well and maybe my sternum. Hopefully she can fix me up. I can race the way I am right now, but it would be so much better if my trachea didn't feel like something was pushing on it and my spine wasn't torqued six ways to Sunday.

[emily_in_nc]

I did my three-mile beach run yesterday afternoon and had my fastest time yet. Overal pace of 9:59, which is the first time I've broken a 10-minute mile on this run ever. Just barely, but I'll take it. Temp was 82, strong breeze, some shade saved me, but it was still killer hot.

[solobiker]

It's so odd for me to read about those of you running in heat. I would LOVE some heat to run in. Seriously, I'm always cold and I do just fine in the warm weather, and even when it's hot.

This morning I did 2600 meters in the pool, tossed on my run clothes, then went for a 40 minute run. At 7am it was only 36 degrees. My hands hurt from the cold until at least halfway through the run. Mind you, I'm wearing thermal tights, a craft baselayer, a windstopped jacket and thermal gloves with overmitts. And a hat. And wool socks. <sigh> I don't run without a jacket or vest until it's at least 55 degrees, and it has to be 60 or so before I can run in short sleeves. Even then, I need to carry (and often wear) some light gloves.

As for the run, it kinda sucked. Some days I just don't seem to have any flow.

Wow..I love running in the cooler/cold weather. My body does not do well in the heat at all. In the winters here in CO when I am backcountry ski touring I rarely have a jacket on or a hat. If I do have a hat on it is usualy a baseball cap. Once the temps creep up past 70 I have a harder time with my running.

[Susan Otcenas]

Wow..I love running in the cooler/cold weather. My body does not do well in the heat at all. In the winters here in CO when I am backcountry ski touring I rarely have a jacket on or a hat. If I do have a hat on it is usualy a baseball cap. Once the temps creep up past 70 I have a harder time with my running.

I've gotten so that I can barely stand the snow. For the past three years, Jeff and I, along with some friends and their children, have snowshoed in to a cabin up on the shoulder of Mt. Hood. This year, I begged off. I used my IT band as an excuse, but even if I'd been healthy I don't think I'd have gone. Last year I went, and spent most of my time in the cabin while everyone else played in the snow, built an igloo, etc. I just can't handle the cold any more.

Sometimes when I go for a run when the temps are in the low 30s, I lose all the circulation in my toes. Sometimes I'll regain it 20-30 minutes in, other times not. It's hard running on numb toes.

I have a very bad case of Raynaud's Disease, which has gotten progressively worse in the past few years. ON Saturday, we rode 52 miles in 60 degees, but I was dressed only in short sleeves. There was a bit of a nip in the air, and for a solid 10 miles, I couldn't feel my toes.

When I retire, I'm moving someplace warm so that I can run & ride all year without fear of losing my toes. (Seriously, my PT warned me that I'm at risk for that, given how often I ride with frozen feet!)

[solobiker]

I've gotten so that I can barely stand the snow. For the past three years, Jeff and I, along with some friends and their children, have snowshoed in to a cabin up on the shoulder of Mt. Hood. This year, I begged off. I used my IT band as an excuse, but even if I'd been healthy I don't think I'd have gone. Last year I went, and spent most of my time in the cabin while everyone else played in the snow, built an igloo, etc. I just can't handle the cold any more.

Sometimes when I go for a run when the temps are in the low 30s, I lose all the circulation in my toes. Sometimes I'll regain it 20-30 minutes in, other times not. It's hard running on numb toes.

I have a very bad case of Raynaud's Disease, which has gotten progressively worse in the past few years. ON Saturday, we rode 52 miles in 60 degees, but I was dressed only in short sleeves. There was a bit of a nip in the air, and for a solid 10 miles, I couldn't feel my toes.

When I retire, I'm moving someplace warm so that I can run & ride all year without fear of losing my toes. (Seriously, my PT warned me that I'm at risk for that, given how often I ride with frozen feet!)


I hope I did not offend you with my post...I was not trying to be rude or insulting in any way. I kind of figured you had Raynauds after I read your first sentence. That stinks:( I have worked in the medical field for close to 20 years and have seen it many times.

My thyroid has been messed up for many years...over 20 years so when the Dr. starts messing with my medication I have a very hard time regulating my body temp( more so when it is hot/warm out..I get very nauseous). I guess it is a good thing that everyone is not the same otherwise we would all be trying to live in the same area. :)

Once again...sorry if my post came across as insensitive because it was not meant that way all.

[Crankin]

I do much better in the cold, although I haven't run seriously in anything lower than 34 or so (I'm usually x country skiing).
Two years ago, I went for a 4 mile run on a beautiful, dry, clear New England day. I seriously thought I was going to faint when I got back to my car. It was 73 out, perfect. I felt sick the rest of the day. I get the same issue when I run on my treadmill at home and forget to put the room AC on or open a window.
Somehow, I've managed to acclimate myself to riding in hotter weather, but I still hate it. And, I have to build up slowly. Yesterday, it was about 84 when I rode, fast for me, and I ended up with the same symptoms, although a little soft serve ice cream made it better.
I think it has to do with the fact I lived in climate controlled cities for 23 years and never did anything outside, except sit my azz in the pool when it was 110.

[OakLeaf]

I have a touch of Raynaud's, but with the wind chill it affects me much more on the bike than it does running. I'll wear shoe covers up to nearly 70°F ... and short sleeves with no arm warmers at 60°? Forget about it. My main issue with the cold and running is motivation. As I've said before, when I'm already freezing, it's a huge act of will to take off whatever I'm wearing (usually two or three layers of wool!) and put on freezing cold running gear.

If I'm acclimated I don't mind heat. But it definitely slows me down. And in the last couple of years, temperatures have been so variable that it hasn't been possible to acclimate to heat.

[Susan Otcenas]

I hope I did not offend you with my post...I was not trying to be rude or insulting in any way.

Oh my goodness, heck no! :) I didn't mean to give that impression at all!

I'm always amused at the different conditions we are all accustomed to and what we each consider hot or cold. Was talking to a gal in San Diego yesterday who says she considers it cold when it's below 60. I'm sure she does, but golly, that's a heat wave here! :D

[emily_in_nc]

Was talking to a gal in San Diego yesterday who says she considers it cold when it's below 60. I'm sure she does, but golly, that's a heat wave here! :D

I consider anything below 60 cold for sure -- even before I moved to Belize! :D But for running, I do best in 55-70 degrees. Not going to see that very often here. I think we've been below 70 about 5 times in as many months, if that, and never below 66.

[solobiker]

3 mile run today. It was a little to humid for my comfort level. I think it was at about 20% and 68 degrees.

[Artista]

I find that clouds and wind make a lot of difference in how I perceive the temperature. Low 60's, bright sun, and no wind has me riding in a sleeveless jersey and bike shorts. Throw in clouds and wind at the same temperature and I'm wearing a short sleeve jersey, capris, and a light weight, wool, pullover sweater on the same ride.

I dress even lighter for running but I'm still figuring out what to wear at what temperature. Right now I'm wearing a short sleeve running shirt and capris when it's mid 40's and sunny and I still get too warm.

Interestingly enough, I can also ride 90 degree temps without tooooo much discomfort.

I'm cold blooded when I'm not exercising. Like Oakleaf, I love my wool and hate to take it off to put on cold exercise clothes. I'm fine once I get moving.

[Susan Otcenas]

I skipped my run today. I was supposed to do a bike/run brick (hour bike/40 min run) but my IT band has been more tense this week. I could feel the tension building on my bike and decided it might be prudent to give it a rest today. I almost never skip a workout, but I decided that I would let caution prevail today. I'm so tired of being injured!! :mad:

[Crankin]

Wow, Artista, you are one of those people that amaze me when I see them running at 40 degrees in a short sleeved shirt.
I'd be wearing capris, with a light weight wool base layer and a regular long sleeved jersey. If it was upper forties, maybe a short sleeved Craft base layer.
I had a lot of trouble adjusting to figuring out what to wear running. I was always too hot, since I was dressing like a cyclist. Fifties are the hardest for me, for running. Can't wear shorts or short sleeves, so capris and LS jerseys, but I often end up pushing the sleeves up, near the end.

[solobiker]

Wow, Artista, you are one of those people that amaze me when I see them running at 40 degrees in a short sleeved shirt.
I'd be wearing capris, with a light weight wool base layer and a regular long sleeved jersey. If it was upper forties, maybe a short sleeved Craft base layer.
I had a lot of trouble adjusting to figuring out what to wear running. I was always too hot, since I was dressing like a cyclist. Fifties are the hardest for me, for running. Can't wear shorts or short sleeves, so capris and LS jerseys, but I often end up pushing the sleeves up, near the end.

I was born and raised in the north east which is a far more humid environment then out here in CO. 40 back there is colder to me then 40 out here. It is quite nice.:) I too run in a short sleeved shirt once the temps get into the 40s.

[Artista]

Wow, Artista, you are one of those people that amaze me when I see them running at 40 degrees in a short sleeved shirt.
I'd be wearing capris, with a light weight wool base layer and a regular long sleeved jersey. If it was upper forties, maybe a short sleeved Craft base layer.
I had a lot of trouble adjusting to figuring out what to wear running. I was always too hot, since I was dressing like a cyclist. Fifties are the hardest for me, for running. Can't wear shorts or short sleeves, so capris and LS jerseys, but I often end up pushing the sleeves up, near the end.
I know...I used to be amazed, too, when I saw people running in next to nothing in 40 degree temps. But, now I break out in a sweat just reading about the layers that other TE members are wearing.

I did two 9 minute runs today with a 3 minute walk in between. Actually, I had to take 45 second walk break during the first 9 minute run. The "out" portion of my run is vaguely uphill, (nothing like Crankin's 10% hills), and my hamstrings get really tired. Coming back was no problem though. A 20 minute run may be just around the corner:eek::eek::D

[emily_in_nc]

3 mile run today. It was a little to humid for my comfort level. I think it was at about 20% and 68 degrees.

20% humidity is too high?? Is that a typo? I thought that was desert-like?

Our humidity here is between 65-80% typically. Urgh! But we did have a cooler, rainy, overcast day at long last. By cooler, I mean 79 degrees (with a breeze) instead of 80s (with sunshine). It was very humid, but I was thrilled with the clouds and ever-so-slightly cooler temperature. Thanks to this gift from Mother Nature, I managed a 4 mile beach run for the first time in several weeks. My pace was the best for this distance I've had -- 10:25.

I was absolutely drenched when I finished, but it was the best run I've had for awhile, so I'll take it!

[Selkie]

I like running in the cold. Actually, I'm just happy to be running again, so I'm willing to endure less-than-ideal weather to get outside and run! Yesterday, I ran 5.5 miles in intermittent drizzle/light rain. It was much cooler than Monday (in the 50s), with a brisk breeze. Warmed up after a couple miles and worked up a good sweat.

Susan---I'm always freezing when I get out of the pool. Where I swim, they keep the water at around 81 degrees and even though I'm fine after the first length, I'm freezing cold the moment I stop swimming. Somedays, I'm still cold after I shower/dress.

[Crankin]

I didn't "run" today, but I went to my fitness class; it's hard enough as it is, but today, she had us go outside.
We had to run around the cul-de-sac outside the gym twice, do a bunch of push ups and planks using the curb and rocks for leverage, and then run 2-3 times around again and back inside.
I was running with the 2 women I know are real runners; they do tris and 10Ks, halfs. When I looked back, everyone else was way behind us.
:)

[Susan Otcenas]

Susan---I'm always freezing when I get out of the pool. Where I swim, they keep the water at around 81 degrees and even though I'm fine after the first length, I'm freezing cold the moment I stop swimming. Somedays, I'm still cold after I shower/dress.

Our pool is really warm. 85-ish. Which is good for me as I find most pools to be intolerably cold. I'm not cold when I get out. But I think I'm generally in a bit of a calorie hole by the time i get to the run. I generally only have a piece of fruit before my swim, then another 100 calories before the run, so this may contribute to why I feel cold running after swimming. Also, my hair is generally wet at that point.

Then again, I'm always cold, so while the wet head and calorie deficit might have contributed this week, it's not the basis for the problem. I'm just a walking (running) human popsicle! :D

[skhill]

Past 3 mornings have been in the upper 40's and damp when I run-- love it! Today, I wore shorts, short-sleeved shirt, and warm wool mittens and socks. Looks funny but I'm comfortable. It was 5 miles, and for about a mile of it I was running with another woman I just happened to meet out there. Nice! and chatting helped me keep the speed down...

[solobiker]

20% humidity is too high?? Is that a typo? I thought that was desert-like?

Our humidity here is between 65-80% typically. Urgh! But we did have a cooler, rainy, overcast day at long last. By cooler, I mean 79 degrees (with a breeze) instead of 80s (with sunshine). It was very humid, but I was thrilled with the clouds and ever-so-slightly cooler temperature. Thanks to this gift from Mother Nature, I managed a 4 mile beach run for the first time in several weeks. My pace was the best for this distance I've had -- 10:25.

I was absolutely drenched when I finished, but it was the best run I've had for awhile, so I'll take it!

Yes...it is desert like. There were many times this winter when it was in the single digits..6%-9%. I can always tell when a storm is coming because I notice the change in humidity.:) And yes..it was 20 %...we ended up getting a little rain later on in the day.

[Selkie]

Got in my usual 5.4 mile run yesterday morning. Felt pretty energetic, even after a decent swim before work. Treat: saw a little deer waking up from its nap.

[OakLeaf]

I did a relatively relaxed run up to the intersection and back for about 5 miles and I got a bonus too: a mama fox and her kits! I was so happy to see them since I haven't seen a live fox in two or three years (just a few road kill :(). I wouldn't even have noticed if mama hadn't snarled when I passed. The fuzzy little kits scrambled up the bank for cover while mom stood her ground and stared at me to let me know what would happen if I even looked at her babies crosswise.

[Veronica]

It's going to be hot today - 66 degrees when I ran at 4:45 this morning. It was a nice, relaxed three miler. But I was pleasantly surprised with how speedy my pace was with my heart rate so low.

Veronica

[emily_in_nc]

I did a relatively relaxed run up to the intersection and back for about 5 miles and I got a bonus too: a mama fox and her kits! I was so happy to see them since I haven't seen a live fox in two or three years (just a few road kill :(). I wouldn't even have noticed if mama hadn't snarled when I passed. The fuzzy little kits scrambled up the bank for cover while mom stood her ground and stared at me to let me know what would happen if I even looked at her babies crosswise.

How cute! I have seen many a solitary fox, but never kits!

[yellow]

Oak, is your marathon this weekend???

If so, have an awesome run! :D

[OakLeaf]

Next weekend. Thanks. The good news is I found an awesome chiropractor who did an incredibly thorough exam and history today and she is going to adjust me Monday, Tuesday AND Wednesday to get me straightened up for next Saturday. :)

[Veronica]

Next weekend. Thanks. The good news is I found an awesome chiropractor who did an incredibly thorough exam and history today and she is going to adjust me Monday, Tuesday AND Wednesday to get me straightened up for next Saturday. :)

Well, that's good news! :)

Veronica

[solobiker]

Got in a nice 70 min run this morning. I am not sure how many miles I ran because I am running a slower pace then usualy to train my aerobic system better. My average HR was 143 with a max of 157. Whoops.:) The run felt great and I could not have asked for better weather..temps in the upper 50s and sunny. I was able to wear shorts and a long sleeve shirt. :D

[Crankin]

I ran two continual miles today! Shh...I skipped one of the days on the C25K plan, as I have only been running 2 days a week, instead of 3. I feel good, so I decided to go for it.
It's humid and about 70 degrees, so I ran on flat ground, around Concord center. DH came with me, as he has a case of saddle sores for the first time in years and wants them to heal more before he rides again. So, I would say my pace was between 9:13 and 10:20, which was good. I tried to go slower, as I just don't do well in warm weather. Also, I took one of my bottles from my Nathan pack and held it. DH ran behind me and had the Garmin, which was acting up.
I was ready to quit near the end, but, on to week 6.

[yellow]

solo, I am so sad that I missed the trail running fest in Fruita this weekend. I did it last year and LOVED it. It's a really awesome event.

Oak, sounds like a great plan. I hope she can help you run a pain free race. You just have to make it through the coming week!

In other news, I got my a$$ handed to me today at a trail marathon. Very humbling experience. I have some regrouping (and learning) to do. :(

[Artista]

I ran two continual miles today! Shh...I skipped one of the days on the C25K plan, as I have only been running 2 days a week, instead of 3. I feel good, so I decided to go for it.
Two miles...awesome! I appreciate your posts. They help keep me motivated since we're pretty close in our C25K programs. Don't tell anyone but I sometimes skip days when I'm feeling strong too:cool:

[emily_in_nc]

It was just too hot to run yesterday, and even hotter today. Normally I run MWF, but this past week it was just MW. A cold front is supposed to come through late tonight, so I will probably skip running tomorrow again and plan on running on Monday as scheduled. I feel guilty when I skip a run, but at 82-84 degrees and humid, I just can't handle it.

[Crankin]

I ran 2 days in a row, mostly due to the fact I didn't get out early enough to beat the misty drizzle and ride.
I really didn't feel that great during today's run, but I did it. Funny, it was "easier" than yesterday's run because it involved intervals of either 3/4 or 1/2 mile runs interspersed with walks instead of 2 full miles of running. The drizzle was on and off, so I ended up taking off my jacket and tying it around my waist. However, I was glad I wearing a cap. Generally, I *hate* wearing caps and don't understand why some think they're a fashion statement, but it kept my eyes and head dry today. My splits were all in the same time range as they have been, 9:30-10:30, but I tried to keep my pace slower than faster.

[solobiker]

No run...but how about some high altitude hiking. DH and I did about 8 miles with about 3000 feet of elevation gain. Beautiful day.

[Artista]

No run...but how about some high altitude hiking. DH and I did about 8 miles with about 3000 feet of elevation gain. Beautiful day.
WOW!!! Where was this? Looks like you're on top of the world.

[solobiker]

WOW!!! Where was this? Looks like you're on top of the world.

We were up near Loveland Pass. Awesome views.:D

[OakLeaf]

Oh brrrr. I didn't need to look at that when I was already freezing. :p Beautiful. But, brrrrrr!

[Selkie]

Sunday morning, 7 miles in drizzle/light rain and a very strong, chilly wind. Heading west was pretty brutal, the wind was an insult. Conversely, coming back I had the wind at my back. Felt amazingly good in the legs, decent energy.

I don't mind running in the rain, so long as I'm dressed appropriately and wear a brimmed hat. Might have to repeat it again Monday morning, but it will be at least 10 degrees colder.

[skhill]

Solo, wow, that's stunning!

Didn't feel like running this morning. It was cold (mid 30's) and breezy and I ate a lot of crap yesterday (I get a craving for sweets when my period shows up). But I ran anyway. It was one of those days where I just felt awkward. Still, I did 3 miles and so the week's off to a decent start.

Tonight's cross training: yardwork. It's time to clear out another bed in the garden, so I can plant some more veg. in a couple days. I'm always amazed just how good an upper-body workout that can be...

[7rider]

Woot! I actually RAN tonight!

I signed up for a coached 8k program with my running club but since I have been doing zero running since March, I was unsure I'd be able to do this at all. Tonight, we met at a local college's track, ran a few laps to warm up, ran 2 timed laps at speed to set our pace group, and another lap or two to cool down.

So I ended up with just shy of 2.4 miles. And no pain! Yeah, I wore compression sleeves and right now I'm icing my leg and popped naproxen just in case...but the fact that I got a run in without agony is a milestone.

I have custom orthotics on order. Hopefully they will come in soon and I can get back to my training. Now, my biggest fear is in my zeal, doing too much, too soon. Somebody stop me now.

[solobiker]

Short but steep trail run today..about 4.5 miles with over 1000 feet of elevation gain. I am not the fastest but it felt great!!

[Selkie]

That's great news, 7!! :-) What did you decide to do about your event?

Ran Monday, Wednesday, & Thursday so far, all 5.4 milers. The weather hasn't been that great, as it's been cooler and unsettled. Luckily, the rain took a break during my Mon & Thurs sessions. Tuesday was sunny and a bit warmer. Felt good.

We have a 10K planned for Sunday, but it might be cold and rainy! The race starts/ends in different places, so we have to metro back to the start after we finish. If the weather isn't pleasant, I might take a pass and just do a 7 miler from home.

[7rider]

That's great news, 7!! :-) What did you decide to do about your event?

Ran Monday, Wednesday, & Thursday so far, all 5.4 milers. The weather hasn't been that great, as it's been cooler and unsettled. Luckily, the rain took a break during my Mon & Thurs sessions. Tuesday was sunny and a bit warmer. Felt good.

We have a 10K planned for Sunday, but it might be cold and rainy! The race starts/ends in different places, so we have to metro back to the start after we finish. If the weather isn't pleasant, I might take a pass and just do a 7 miler from home.

Well....I already canceled the first one (in Hagerstown last weekend). The upcoming two are still "iffy". Hopefully, I can do it. One of the guys in my tri club has a signature in his emails that reads:
"Run when you can. Walk when you can't, and crawl when you must. Just keep moving forward!"
That will be my mantra for any upcoming events! :p

You are rocking the running! I was going to volunteer at Sunday's 10K (Pikes Peek?) but had to pull out due to other commitments. I think you may luck out with weather. The roads may be wet, but I'm hopeful it won't actively rain Sunday. Hope....

[Selkie]

7 - If you keep it up, I bet you'll be able to do your upcoming events. Even if you have to walk part of the running legs of them, you'll more than make up for it on the bike.

Sorry I'll miss you at the Pikes Peek! Not sure if the 7:50 starting time is a blessing or a curse, since we'll be schlepping over from Arlington. Weather is still iffy---I wouldn't mind rain if it were going to be warmer, but the early morning temps will probably be in the mid-to-high 40s. They promise that it's a completely downhill course, so bombs away!

[OakLeaf]

Met my goal for the Illinois Marathon. Took all I had. Report in a couple of days...

[yellow]

Met my goal for the Illinois Marathon. Took all I had. Report in a couple of days...

YAY! :D Congratulations!

[Catrin]

Met my goal for the Illinois Marathon. Took all I had. Report in a couple of days...

Wooot! Looking forward to reading all about it!

[indysteel]

Congrats, Oak!!! I'm looking forward to your full report.

[redrhodie]

Me too! Glad it worked out.

[emily_in_nc]

Congrats, oak!

I have not run in awhile. First, it just got TOO freakin' hot, and I couldn't make myself go. Then I took a minor tumble on my beach bike and hit the bone on the inside of my ankle (the pointy one that sticks out) hard on a rock, probably bruising my bone, so I had to take a few more days off. Then we traveled the past few days. Yesterday I did an intense 90-minute yoga class and today we took a long bike ride. Tomorrow I am scheduled for another run. It's really hot, so I pray I can make myself go!

[Bike Chick]

Met my goal for the Illinois Marathon. Took all I had. Report in a couple of days...

Great job, Oak! Can't wait to read the report.

[7rider]

Great job, Oak! Can't wait to read the report.

Me too!!

Selkie - how'd the 10k go?

[Selkie]

That's great news, Oak.

Seven, the race was fun, overall. It was chilly, but luckily, the pavement was pretty much dry by the time we started. As advertised, it was mostly downhill, which was great, and the section before the finish in front of White Flint Mall was steep enough that you could let gravity help you along.

The logistics were a bit of a challenge. We started at the Shady Grove Metro Station and as mentioned, ended at White Flint. Had to schlep up to the metro stop to get back to the car. Sunday schedule for Metro, so we ended up waiting 14 minutes for a train. Everyone was sweaty and getting cold, but Marylanders aren't whiners. The train wasn't crowded, which meant that anyone who wanted a seat got one.

MCRRs put on a good race. The after race food offerings were great and varied (healthy choices to fried food). In addition to the fleece top that was in my race bag, one of the volunteers gave me a gorgeous race t-shirt. They started the race in waves, so there was none of that stop/start/walk stuff and overcrowding at the beginning of the race. Well organized, great support, encouragement from the volunteers all along the route, etc. We ran down two lanes of the northbound part of 355---impressive amount of support from MCPD.

I ran a good race---went at a fast clip for most of it. This was my longest race in years, so I was surprised that I didn't run out of gas. Physically, felt fine.

My results: pace 8:25; finished 26th of 163 in my age group; finished 281 of 1,445 women.

Brian had a great race, too, and enjoyed it. We're planning on doing it again in 2013 (hope to see you there!)

[rubysoho]

Peeking into this thread. I've picked up a bit of running again to supplement the days I can't get on my bike. The last week and a half they've all been treadmill runs because I've been experimenting with new shoes. I love my VFFs and they've done really well over the past year but I love them more on dirt trails than I do on concrete/asphalt. I was hoping to find a shoe that could give me that trail/dirt feel without too much padding. I think I've settled on Adizeros for now. They felt the best out of all the "minimalist" shoes ... which imo aren't really all that minimal but that could be another thread.

Anyway, I'm excited to be running again. So far my max distance has been the occasional 5k. I signed myself up for a 10k in August, a Sprint Tri in September and my friend wants me to do a 10 mile run in October. :eek: This time last year I was barely running a mile so even if I only complete the 10k I will still be very happy.

[Crankin]

I haven't run in 10 days or so... too much cycling fun.
This morning I ran 2.25 miles continuously. It was 36 degrees out at 6 AM :eek:, but I really like running in the cold. In fact, I was on the edge of feeling a bit warm, but I took my head band off and that solved most of it.
Felt kind of slow and this run involved uphill in the last half, since I didn't have time to drive to a flatter place. Total pace, including warm up was 11:30, so I am thinking my run average was around 10:30, which is OK, but not what I want. I sort of have it figured out, in that I can do my runs by tacking on a neighborhood that is off of my neighborhood and my run will stop either right where the 10% grade starts, or about half way through. Today was the latter. This way, my cool down is a bit longer that the C25K plan has you do, but hey, at my age, the more warm up and cool down, the better.

[7rider]

I ran a good race---went at a fast clip for most of it. This was my longest race in years, so I was surprised that I didn't run out of gas. Physically, felt fine.

My results: pace 8:25; finished 26th of 163 in my age group; finished 281 of 1,445 women.


Congrats to both you and Brian. I looked up your time. Great job!

[OakLeaf]

Nice job, Selkie!

7 and Crankin, looking good - hope you can both continue to run pain free.

Solo, yikes that is steep. :eek:

Emily, hope it stays cool enough for you to run and/or that you get acclimated to the heat sooner than later.

Ruby, did you try on Leming (fka Stem) shoes? They claim a 2 mm sole, but that's the part in between the lugs, so what they actually have is the flexibility of the 2 mm between the lugs, plus maybe another 2-3 mm of protection in the lugs themselves, no cushion to speak of. I don't know how minimal you're looking for - I can't run minimal (yet) myself, but I just adore mine for walking in, and people do run in them.

Yellow, hope you're regrouping well. Smackdowns s*ck, hope you can make yours a learning experience.

Anyone I missed while I was otherwise occupied mentally :o ... hope your running is going well! Working on my race report. :)

[limewave]

Tonight I'll have to read the thread and catch on everyone's runs. Sounds like there's some exciting stuff going on with everyone :)

I haven't been running much. Yesterday, however, I crept out of church early so I could get in a 7 miler before DH had to leave for the day. I had to keep a quick pace because I had 1 hour. That was it. No lolly-gagging for me!

I cannot believe how exhausted I was afterwards! My legs tingled last night.

[rubysoho]

Ruby, did you try on Leming (fka Stem) shoes? They claim a 2 mm sole, but that's the part in between the lugs, so what they actually have is the flexibility of the 2 mm between the lugs, plus maybe another 2-3 mm of protection in the lugs themselves, no cushion to speak of. I don't know how minimal you're looking for - I can't run minimal (yet) myself, but I just adore mine for walking in, and people do run in them.

Nope, hadn't heard of them. I took home a pair of Brooks PureFlow a couple weeks ago but wasn't satisfied. They were too squishy and that makes the tendon on the outside of my ankle hurt. The Adizero have less cushion but enough without getting so blocky. I think the heel could still have less but the heels don't get in the way like some of the other brands I've tried. If I were only running on trails then I'd stick with the VFF's but I just get the feeling a little bit of cushion is good for all the road time in the near future.

[emily_in_nc]

Emily, hope it stays cool enough for you to run and/or that you get acclimated to the heat sooner than later.


Thanks, oak. Unfortunately, I am not coping well with the heat. The combo of heat above 80 and high humidity just kills me. It's even hotter in the morning than the afternoon (try 85 degrees at 7:30 am on for size), but I MUCH prefer to run in the morning because I get busier in the afternoon, things come up, I need to walk the dog and make dinner, and before I know it, I've run out of time to run.

Oh well, rainy season will be here before too long, bringing some cooler mornings and afternoons. If I have to take a running break for a couple of months, I am sure I can get back to it. But if we have another "cold front" and it's a few degrees cooler, I'll get out there again. At least I can ride in the heat!

[yellow]

Congratulations to all of the racers! We are so bada$$!

This past week was better than the previous one, although I was a bit short on mileage. I took and extra day off because my legs were so trashed from the previous weekend. My long run this week was good, but then it was about 25 degrees cooler and the course was not as mountainous. :p I'm with Emily; the heat just absolutely KILLS me. And it's not even humid here. I normally just get kind of whiney about the heat, but this year I am having a plethora of physical reactions. I'm working on some new strategies for hydration and electrolyte supplementation (clearly, what has worked for years is no longer working). But of course now it has cooled down...which is good (and bad--means I can't continue to acclimate).

April was my "big" month for the 50 miler training; 3 big weeks in a row (57, 57, and 50). I'm on an easier week this week, maybe one more run in the 25-30 mile range the following week, and then the downhill slide. I'm more exhausted by fitting everything in. Between running, weekly PT, taking care of a budding garden, work, overseeing the household because of traveling husband, and needing to sleep, I'm not getting basic things like grocery shopping and laundry done! :rolleyes:

I need to keep reminding myself to slow the heck down. We're off to Zion for a long weekend. I am looking forward to doing some slow, scenery-gazing running in the park. Have a great week, everyone!

[solobiker]

Got in a nice 4 mile run afterwork today. I did not run over the weekend but did get in some long, high alpine hikes.

[katluvr]

8 slow, hot & humid miles this AM. Darn quads! Just the beginning of many more long & hot summer runs.

K

[Crankin]

Not a real "run," but yesterday, I decided to go to a yoga class during the time I normally would be riding (it was raining). I hate doing yoga with cold muscles, so I got on the treadmill and was able to run between 10:00 and 9:15mm for a nice 15 minute warm up. That's never happened before. I've never been able to maintain a 10mm for more than a minute on a treadmill.

[solobiker]

4.5 mile trail run for me. Might not sound like a lot..but there was over 1000 feet of climbing involved which is a little challenging for me. It took me a little over an hour. I took my time on some of the downhill so I would decrease my risk of tripping over rocks or logs. It was getting to be on the hot side for me...low 80s. Hope everyone is doing well.

[skhill]

Looks like it's the season for new roofs and other remodeling around here. I've seen a lot of tarped roofs and construction dupsters on my runs this week. Combination of warm weather and tax refunds, maybe?

It feels more like mid-June than May this week, and so my speed is down. Lots of slow easy miles-- today was 6 miles, at a 9:30 pace. Planning on doing a 5k tomorrow; it's pt to pt and I think it includes one of the biggest hills in town, up only. Heat + humidity + hill = slow time