May Running

[Crankin]

I'm starting the thread?
I did my first continuous 2.5 mile run on the TM this morning. Just too wet, dark, and rainy to go outside. Pace between 9:28 and 10:00.
Why do I sweat so much inside? It really overheats me and ruins it!

[skhill]

Crankin, I end up dripping with sweat on the treadmill too. Wish there was some way to set up a big fan so the sweat would evaporate better, but there at the gym there's no way... Rather than go to the treadmill, this morning's run was short, just 3 miles, in between rain showers. But this front's bringing cooler weather for the rest of the week, so it's worth it.

Saturday I got my first trophy ever-- way cool! 2nd overall women, in a very small 5k. So small that I was the only one in my age group. (There was another race in town that morning, a 5k/10k/15k, that drew a big crowd). I'm not all that happy with my time (26:59), but then I was completely alone with no one in sight for the last 2 miles. It's hard for me to push the pace with no one to chase or hold off. And I was having some trouble reading the signs marking the turns, too. But it was fun, ran into some old friends I hadn't seen in years.

[OakLeaf]

Nice job skhill! Congratulations on the hardware.

I try to avoid cardio machines as much as humanly possible, but at the gym I usually put a couple of sweat towels on the floor on either side of me to soak up the puddles. Yeah, I sweat that much inside.

In other hardware news, revised results have me eleven seconds out of an AG award in last week's marathon. Eleven seconds. I probably had that much in me, especially roundabout mile 25 when I really slowed down into the wind and wasn't feeling confident enough to start a kick yet. Grrrrrrrrr. :rolleyes: :p

Anyway I got out yesterday for an easy four and a half, first run since the race. I'd been feeling plenty able to run since Wednesday or so, but I had a lot of stuff to do in the garden, did the club ride on Saturday which wound up 12 miles farther than anyone had planned for :mad:, and just generally figured I didn't need to run until I really started missing it. Yesterday morning I had a choice between some more gardening before my PT appointment and the afternoon rain, and a run, and I chose to run. :) It felt pretty good in spite of the sore adductors from the bike, and I saw another fox!

[katluvr]

Made it out for 7 miles. Originally I should of done 9, but after last weeks 8 miles that defeated me I decided I might need to spend more time with middle mileage before going for 9 or 10. It was a good decision. My pace (although not spectacular) was the goal I set for today and did it! Probably could of done another mile, but it was nice to finish strong. Off to the beach for vaca w/ parents and sister. So it will be short runs, but then maybe I can work on speed a bit!

K

[skhill]

In other hardware news, revised results have me eleven seconds out of an AG award in last week's marathon. Eleven seconds. I probably had that much in me, especially roundabout mile 25 when I really slowed down into the wind and wasn't feeling confident enough to start a kick yet. Grrrrrrrrr. :rolleyes: :p



Been there, done that. Boy, does it stink. But it feels pretty good when you're on the other side of that sort of thing!

[Crankin]

Oak, you should still be proud. Of course, this is coming from totally non-competitive me.
I was running on the TM at home. It's up in our loft, so it's like an attic. It was 49 out, so I opened the window next to me, but it did nothing. The central AC does nothing to cool this room, so we have floor unit in addition. I guess I will use it next time.

[emily_in_nc]

Even in an air-conditioned gym, I always sweated like crazy running on a treadmill, Crankin, so you are not alone. The only things I could find to help were to wear a Halo headband AND run a ceiling fan right above my head AND have a bandanna at the handy to wipe sweat off as it dripped down my face and neck.

I am a BIG sweater. This is why I simply cannot tolerate running right now in Belize. It's extremely humid and 85+ degrees even by 6:30 am now. The sun rises at 5:20 am. It's dry season, so I can't run in the rain, which would be better than in the blistering sun.

I feel so guilty for falling off my regime as I'd been pretty consistently running 3x a week (3-4+ miles) for months until sometime in April. To make matters worse, a new friend of mine who recently moved here used to run marathons and is having no problems running in this heat. I wish I didn't feel competitive with her, but I do. It's really crazy. She's just a much better runner than me and seems to handle the heat better (she's from Mississippi, which may have a lot to do with it). I've never run > 5 miles in my life, and she just went out and ran 6 this morning with no problems (other than sweating a lot).

Urghhhhh...what I wouldn't give for an air-cond'd room with a treadmill about right now! :(

[solobiker]

Even in an air-conditioned gym, I always sweated like crazy running on a treadmill, Crankin, so you are not alone. The only things I could find to help were to wear a Halo headband AND run a ceiling fan right above my head AND have a bandanna at the handy to wipe sweat off as it dripped down my face and neck.

I am a BIG sweater. This is why I simply cannot tolerate running right now in Belize. It's extremely humid and 85+ degrees even by 6:30 am now. The sun rises at 5:20 am. It's dry season, so I can't run in the rain, which would be better than in the blistering sun.

I feel so guilty for falling off my regime as I'd been pretty consistently running 3x a week (3-4+ miles) for months until sometime in April. To make matters worse, a new friend of mine who recently moved here used to run marathons and is having no problems running in this heat. I wish I didn't feel competitive with her, but I do. It's really crazy. She's just a much better runner than me and seems to handle the heat better (she's from Mississippi, which may have a lot to do with it). I've never run > 5 miles in my life, and she just went out and ran 6 this morning with no problems (other than sweating a lot).

Urghhhhh...what I wouldn't give for an air-cond'd room with a treadmill about right now! :(

You sound a lot like me. As I have stated before I do not function well at all in the heat and humidity...or just plain heat for that matter. I am not even a member of a gym because I find them too hot and stuffy.

I would not worry about falling off your regime....running there this time of year must be very difficult. I will try to send some cool CO weather your way. :p I went for a 4.5 mile run and the weather was nice..sunny, low humitidity and temps in the low 70s. :D

[Crankin]

I wonder if I will be able to keep running outside when summer heats up. In the past, I haven't been able to tolerate anything over 70! I love running at 50 degrees or so. I was able to build up my tolerance to riding in 80+ degree temperatures, so I guess I can do it with running. When I first started riding, I would go to spin on any day it was hot and humid. Now, I would at least go out early in the AM, for a short ride, but after riding in southern Spain in May, I can just about do anything.

[7rider]

I have to keep running outside in the growing heat and humidity if I intend to do some events I signed up for in July and August. And like others, I'm a sweater. None of this "glow" stuff here! :p For me, it's a matter of acclimating slowly and drinking lots of electrolytes.

I did my first run with my new orthotics this morning....2.4 miles. I picked them up last Friday - and have been walking around in them to get used to them. They actually felt better running than just walking around. I have a track workout with my club tomorrow, so we'll see how it goes. I think they should be good and ready to go for my race on Saturday.

Now...if only I were ready for the race!

[emily_in_nc]

I wonder if I will be able to keep running outside when summer heats up. In the past, I haven't been able to tolerate anything over 70! I love running at 50 degrees or so. I was able to build up my tolerance to riding in 80+ degree temperatures, so I guess I can do it with running.

I will be very interested to hear if you can, because I can ride in just about anything -- used to have to ride in temps up to 95 (and humid) in NC in the summer. But I cannot seem to acclimate to running in 85-degree (and even more humid) down in Belize.

I guess it's because running is much more of an effort for me (no coasting, no downhills) and because I create a breeze when cycling that I can't create running at my pace!

Part of it is just willpower. I just can't motivate myself to go do something so unpleasant as running in this heat. But that is because it makes me absolutely miserable physically.

[skhill]

After all the talk here about heat, we had an unseasonably cool morning today, just 45F. Woohoo! Broke out a lightweight long-sleeve shirt and mittens again, and it was lovely. It was interesting to see how other runners out there dressed for the weather; I saw one young woman in tights + tank top + winter cap! Felt so good that I tacked on an extra mile at the end of the run, going 7 miles in 1:03. It's just so much easier to go fast in these conditions, the heat really slows me down...

[VeganBikeChick]

I'm getting back into running again. Worked so hard as a newbie runner last fall/winter only to have it fall by the wayside. (depression/dating issues)

Ran for 20 min on the treadmill today in our building's exercise room. Which leads me to a rant - there are 3 awesome ceiling fans in there which I love to have on, but if someone's already in the room, they never turn them on. It gets hot in there! I wish I could just turn on the d*mn things without feeling obligated to ask the other person every time. This particular person had all the windows of the room open, so I don't think he would have minded.

/rant over

[emily_in_nc]

Just ask him, VBC! I had the same issue in our gym at work. If the first person on the treadmills did not have the fan on (there was only one), I would ask if I could turn it on. I really needed that fan. No one ever said no. That said, it was usually already on!

[Crankin]

Not a run, but we did about a 5 mile hike at the Colorado Monument. Thankfully, it's a bit cooler than yesterday, about 79-81 and by the end of the hike, storm clouds were moving in. There was a rumble of thunder, so we turned around then.
Most of the hike was fairly easy, but there was some rock scrambling near the turn around and a couple of descents with loose sand. Whatever altitude symptoms I was having disappeared by the end of the hike, but we slowed the pace from the usual. Glad I decided to hike and not run.
I can't get my pictures from the photo stream on my phone to download, so I will post them when I get home.

[VeganBikeChick]

Just ask him, VBC! I had the same issue in our gym at work. If the first person on the treadmills did not have the fan on (there was only one), I would ask if I could turn it on. I really needed that fan. No one ever said no. That said, it was usually already on!

Thanks, Emily. It just astounds me, I guess, that no one ever puts the fans on in there! I seem like an anomaly when I do so. And they're usually into their run/elliptical with headphones on, so I feel like I interrupt their routine and they most often have to take out their headphones to hear my question.

[Susan Otcenas]

I've been sidelined since Saturday with a tenacious chest cold. I'm supposed to run Portland's Rock-n-Roll half next weekend, but given all the time off this week, and the fact that I'm still not recovered, it's looking doubtful....

[emily_in_nc]

Thanks, Emily. It just astounds me, I guess, that no one ever puts the fans on in there! I seem like an anomaly when I do so. And they're usually into their run/elliptical with headphones on, so I feel like I interrupt their routine and they most often have to take out their headphones to hear my question.

Yes, been there too -- I normally just point to the fan and make an "okay?" kind of gesture with my hands. They get it and usually just nod. I do know what you mean, though. Whenever it wasn't on and someone was running along sweating like crazy, I'd wonder what the heck was wrong with 'em! Turn on the freakin' fan, dude! :D

[OakLeaf]

Ugh Susan. Hope you feel better ASAP. At the risk of repeating myself yet again, black elderberry extract ...

I just got out for five yesterday on a glorious day. My neck is much better with the PT, but we started in the wrong direction with my back, so I was a little bit worried about the numbness down my leg, but it was fine. Running actually seemed to help it some. Have to miss the club ride this morning :( but that gives me more time in the garden. :D

[skhill]

It's been raining since Sat. evening, just about non-stop. Yuck. We need the rain, but I haven't been able to bring myself to run in it. I've gotten wet enough walking my dog, who doesn't mind it. It's supposed to stop sometime today, so I'm looking forward to hitting the streets refreshed and eager tomorrow.

[Crankin]

I hadn't run in 6 days, so this morning was a bit of a struggle. The 5K I am doing is in 3 weeks and I want to get at least 2 5K runs in before that. I did 2.5 miles today, but I had to walk up part of the steep hill. On Wednesday, I am going to drive to a flatter place. I hope to do 2.75 miles and then give myself 2 weeks to "practice" the 5K.

[7rider]

Okay....I'll post this here, cuz it's too embarrassing to post in "race results".
I think I'll get more sympathy here. :p;)

This past Saturday, I did the Fort Richie Olympic Duathlon in Cascade Maryland. Cascade is a tiny town sitting on top of the Catoctin Mountains, not far from Camp David.

Here's the race report from my Tri Club's calendar - with some added commentary:
Racer: 7rider
Age Group: Female 45-49
Total Time: 3:19:24
Overall Place: 33 / 36 (pathetic, I know)
Age Group Place: 1 / 1 (but hey....I got a win!)
Comment: Taking the good with the bad, I guess

This was supposed to be a "training" race - preparation for Blackwater in June.

Just getting over an obscure running injury (peroneal fasciitis, probably spelled completely wrong), just started running again, and just started running on new custom orthotics.
Just.

So I head up bright and early, and low traffic volumes and the ICC (http://www.iccproject.com/)meant I got there 20 minutes earlier than anticipated. Fortunately, Teammate Dave is another early bird and kept me company while we prepared transition and readied at a leisurely pace.

Run 1: 5k 31:37 (10:11 pace) About 20 paces after the gun on the first run, I turned and looked behind me. Already last. YES! Four of us ran more-or-less together for the bulk of that 5k - until 1 by 1, they dropped me. Fortunately, I wasn't the last into transition - and, ironically, I set a PR for that run, despite the hills. But my knee paid the price and it started talking to me before I hit the mat for the transition. Overall: 36 of 36. Yes, dead last. There was one sprinter behind me (they ran an olympic and a sprint race together), but i was The. Last. Olympic. Racer. Thanks.

Bike: 23.5 miles 1:29:15 (16.0 mph) Heading out of transition is a slow, spirit-sucking climb. It flattens out, only to take a sharp left and hit a short, steep riser. Ugh. Granny gear time. The guy in front of me dropped his chain there. But after that section is a screaming fast descent off the mountain to a nice, scenic rolling course through the valley below. Really, that valley portion suited me and I would have been happy to ride in that valley all day long. But, I had a race to get back to and there was more climbing back up the mountain to the Fort. Overall, I was pretty happy with the bike, although I was fairly conservative, anticipating that climb and trying to not aggravate my knee (although the horse had already left the barn on that one). Overall: 27 out of 36 - which meant that there were also a lot of fast cyclists in this race. Sheesh. Can't win for losing.

Run 2: 10k 1:16:29 (12:19 pace). Ugh. Pain. I was really doubting the wisdom of my decision to do an Oly this day when my weekly total for running for the past month had been 8 miles or less (and the month before that was zilch). I alternated walking with trotting with limping, going from shade to shade, trying to cut corners as tight as I could. I ran much of it alone. Two or three folks I passed on the bike ran by me. Typical. But...I held off 3 others and although my overall time for this run was 35 out of 36 (yes, only one other suffered worse than me on Run2), I managed to hold on for a whopping 33rd place out of 36.

So...I finished. But it hurt. A lot. Back to icing the knee pretty regularly now. I'm hoping it recovers more quickly than last time and that it likes flat runs (i.e., Blackwater) more than those blasted hills of Ft. Richie.

I really wish this Ft. Richie event - which is fun, challenging, friendly, and really low key - attracted more mortals to it. It seemed like everyone there other than me was a super-star.

It's lonely at the back of the pack.

And here I am wearing what we lovingly refer to as "the big blue meatball" looking like quite the big blue meatball.

http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z85/7rider/th_FtRichieDu5k.jpg (http://s193.photobucket.com/albums/z85/7rider/?action=view&current=FtRichieDu5k.jpg)

[katluvr]

7-rider...really I don't think I would of done any better! I hate races that seem to to have more "elites" and "die-hards" than us regular folks. I think your times (and over all time) was pretty damn good!

I have been on beach vaca with sis and parents this past week. Lots of food and drinks. I took 3 running outfits with me and swore I would run 3 days (every other day) and guess what?....I did it. Only 3- 4 slow miles but I did run. Other days I did long walks. So I tried to stay active. Tomorrow (my last day off before work) is a scheduled 10 miles run...ugh, it's hot out!

K

[solobiker]

7Rider..I think you did great!! And from your pic I would not consider you a "big blue meatball".

Short 3 mile run for me. I guess I could call it a recovery run as I did a fairly long hike with a snow climb over the weekend so my legs are still pretty tired. Trying to get into better shape for longer alpine climbs:D Too bad the weekend is so far away until my next trip up to the mountains.

[solobiker]

This was part of the "climb" I did. Not too steep in this pic...but plenty of high steps and of course great views!!

[Blueberry]

This was part of the "climb" I did. Not too steep in this pic...but plenty of high steps and of course great views!!

Wow! Just wow! That's an amazing photo.

[OakLeaf]

Nice job 7rider, especially with the injury! Hope it settles back down quick. No way do you look like a meatball, you look great. You said it yourself, even for the elites, how you place is mostly about who shows up, so not to even worry about that part. You did great.


Solo, that's not the steep part? :eek: Beautiful.


I'm still trying to deal with this back and neck ... besides the neck issues that I've been having for weeks now, the injury apparently primed about four discs in my middle and lower back, so that the change in activity has got me going with paresthesias all up and down my right side. Sigh. At least there's no pain and not a lot of weakness, just the numbness, and it is getting gradually better with PT.

Still not a lot of running - getting stuff done in the garden, plus since my back has me spending all my computer time standing up, that takes some energy as well (which is a good thing, and one I plan to continue after my back heals). But I got out for about 4.5 yesterday. Got tired of waiting for the sun to come out and hit it in the clouds, and of course the sun started poking through as soon as I got home.

[7rider]

Wow! Just wow! That's an amazing photo.

What she said! Awesome photo. Cool hike!

And thanks, everyone, for the words of encouragement. I must be a little "off" to so enjoy such a hard race. But I know that one day I'll nail it, and then I will really feel like I've arrived.

[Crankin]

I feel like dropping out of the running club...

Went out to do 2.75-3 miles and even drove to the center of town, so it would be flat, as that seems to help me transition to longer runs. I just felt crappy. Not pain crappy, but just aching all over and dead. I tried to run through it by slowing, but after about 2 miles I stopped. I walked a bit and then run again for about 1/8 of a mile and that was it.

The only thing I can think of was yesterday I did a very hard boot camp class and my muscles are definitely tweaked from the lifting and sprints, etc. It's also humid out. These are just my excuses, but I think that after the 5K, I will forget about running until the cycling season runs down, like in November. The classes are actually more beneficial to me, in terms of health and weight management.
Or maybe I am just in a mood.

[skhill]

The planned run for today was 5 mile tempo. Don't know what was going on, but I just felt awkward and uncoordinated. Very weird. So I stopped at just 3 miles. Didn't help that there was a very fast guy out running the same mile-long loop...

Just one of those days!

[emily_in_nc]

FINALLY! After a month of HOT HOT HOT temperatures that I just couldn't motivate myself to run in (83+ at 6:30 am), our weather changed. It rained most of the night, and this morning was spitting rain with a temperature of 76 degrees! I know it may seem amazing, but that actually feels cool here. I laced up my running shoes for the first time since April 18th and went out for a beach run. Figured on just two miles since it had been so long, but I felt so good in the overcast cool, I went three.

Have felt fantastic all day -- I've missed this! I will be taking advantage of rainy season weather to run as much as I can. :D

[Anelia]

The day before yesterday it rained the whole day and the streets were full of puddles. I decided to run! I run every other year so this year happened my running. I ran for 30 minutes and I did 5 km. Two days after this and my legs still hurt like hell when walking. Amazingly, I'm ok with riding a bike!
I enjoyed running but I don't have proper shoes: I ran in my five tens :rolleyes:

[skhill]

Emily, that's awesome! So that's a May cold snap in your tropical paradise!

Today made up for yesterday's crappy attempt at speedwork. I did 2 quick miles on the streets, then stopped by the track for some intervals. 4 quarter miles (it's a very old track), all of them between 1:45 and 1:50! Then I was going to take it easy on the way home, but kept on speeding up. What fun!

But if I'm going to get in a long run this week, it'll have to be tomorrow, the weekend is so full. The weather looks perfect for running/ riding/ hiking/ etc on the weekend, so of course I'll be inside doing other things...

[emily_in_nc]

Emily, that's awesome! So that's a May cold snap in your tropical paradise!

Thanks, skhill -- funny, isn't it!? All depends on what you're used to.

My right quad (but not my left, oddly) is super sore today. And my run is close to flat, just a few little rises here and there. As much as I ride, I am very surprised that I would get a sore quad from not running for a month. But that just shows that I need to be running! It appears that our rainy season may be starting early, and if so, I will take full advantage. Rain = cooler temps = gray, cloudy skies = the only weather I can seem to run in without DYING here. :D

[jessmarimba]

Got through 10 this morning, nice and cool and drizzly. And HILLY. With one soul-sucking 3-ish mile stretch down the same awful road. I knew once we crossed 1st ave that it was just a mile and a half left on that one, but it seemed like an eternity before we even got to a street I could start counting at. Five weeks til the first half marathon.

[7rider]

So maybe the experienced runners here can help me out.

Yesterday - I did 57 very flat, moderately paced miles (17.5 mph average) on the TT bike out on the Eastern Shore, followed immediately with 0.9 miles of running at a <10 mm pace (I was in a rush and needed to get home - plus, it was less than one mile and flat). Drove home, gnoshing on a PB/Nutella sammy with mixed nuts and the last of my HEED. Sipped water the rest of the afternoon at a pre-triathlon expo where I was minding the table for my tri club. Was STARVING by the time I left - to the point where I was starting to get a headache. Had a big burrito dinner takeout from the local hole-in-the wall Mexican place (mmmm!).

This morning, coffee, 8 oz. Muscle Milk light, and 1 slice of WW toast with Nutella before heading out the door for a 5 mile run with my club. Downed a Rocktane gel about 10 minutes before the run. Sipped NUUN-spiked water the whole way. Was warm - we ran on a shaded MUT. At the end, wile we were all stretching (after we walked a bit to cool down), I blossomed in sweat (not surprising), got a bit chilled (also not surprising), and started to feel a bit light-headed. That part got me a bit worried. Felt like my blood pressure bottomed out (Avg. HR for today's run, was 149 with a max of 176 - although I feel anything off this Garmin is suspect, and no...I don't have calculated VOmax or HR zones. But those numbers don't seem unreasonable for me. Today was a LSD run and we just went at a pace where we could talk the whole way - and boy, did we talk the whole way! Our run leader makes sure of it - she's a chatty one! Love it. :cool:).

So, my run leader thinks I didn't recover well from yesterday's effort -- which was probably a 6 on a perceived exertion scale to 10. Moderately hard, not crazy hard. She thought I needed to eat more and drink more electrolytes. She actually said "Hellloooooo???? You rode 57 miles yesterday!!" So I immediately pulled out a 230 calorie Hammer bar to her satisfaction and ate it (it was delish - like a Lara bar but softer!).

So...any issues with light headedness after a run that you can tell me about? I'm thinking I'm just needing to acclimate to the increasingly warm temps (60, but you could really feel the heat when in the sun), and keep up the LSD with lots of electrolytes. I think it's just a matter of time and eventually I'll be able to do a warm summer run okay. Thoughts?

[jessmarimba]

I think you pretty much figured it out. About 12 hours after my ten miler yesterday (which wasn't warm at all, but humid for here) I was standing in line at the liquor store (no comments! :p) and started feeling...awful. Light-headed, too hot, broke out in a sweat, you name it. Just sort of bonked standing still. I grabbed a soda from the case by the register and barely made it to the register before I had to drink some. I was fine a few minutes later.

[katluvr]

Recap on recent runs:
This past Sat. 10 miles. Felt good first half, struggled 2nd half. Don't think I am getting enough mid week runs. Quads trashed...I mean I was really sore. Not sure why I my quads are so sore lately with my runs. Couple possibilities: not enough mileage during week/consitency running, or maybe it is because my shorter runs are in my barefoot shoes. Still in reg running shoes for longer runs but I am now more forefoot striking. Any thoughts.

Monday: ran after work. You may recall I suck at running in evening and after work. Did manage to go out in the heat (feels like an oven) and tough out 3.5 miles. Not exceptional pace, but got it done.

Today: 5 mile progression run. I felt good and increased pace quicker and more than originally planned. So I was pleased with surpassing my "goal". Working hard right now to get on track with my training plan as Pikes Peak is in 87 days!:eek:

Question: Do you run in compression socks/sleeves? I have a pair of compression sleeves (calf ones without feet). I wear them after long runs and even sleep in then after hard workouts/long runs to help prevent restless leg syndrome. I never have run in them. It is so hot, the thought of having "knee socks" on makes me hot! But I a seriously thinking of wearing them tomorrow on my 12 mile run. Will that help prevent my quad soreness? Thoughts?

I also think I will hit a couple local running shoe stores to look for a shoe somewhere between my traditional shoe I wear for my long runs and my minimalist shoe. I just have not worked up the mileage in my Bare Access and worry of jumping from 5 miles (I ran in them today--love them) and wearing them for 12 miles tomorrow. Or does to matter now, I run 3- 5 mile runs in them all the time. I do think they make me work harder since there is not cushion or "bounce" in them.

Kay

[Susan Otcenas]

Question: Do you run in compression socks/sleeves? I have a pair of compression sleeves (calf ones without feet). I wear them after long runs and even sleep in then after hard workouts/long runs to help prevent restless leg syndrome. I never have run in them. It is so hot, the thought of having "knee socks" on makes me hot! But I a seriously thinking of wearing them tomorrow on my 12 mile run. Will that help prevent my quad soreness? Thoughts?



Calf sleeves (footless) should be used ACTIVELY only. For recovery (or active), you should wear compression socks.

Calf sleeves used for recovery will tend to promote swelling in your feet.

[jessmarimba]

Good 50-minute-ish trail run yesterday...in 92 degree weather. Ugh. No shade on that trail, either. My quads asked for a day off today so we just did Pilates :)

[Crankin]

I ran with a client today :eek:. Thankfully, she's a 16 year old recovering smoker, who told me I ran fast.
I am not used to running late in the day, in the sun. I was dying, but I think we did about 2 miles, with another mile or so of walking for warm up and cool down.
I hope she doesn't expect this every week :).

[skhill]

Wish I could just flip some internal switch and adjust to running in summer heat. It was in the upper 60s with plenty of humidity when I went out at dawn today. Took it easy, just 4.5 miles. Of course, the weekend is supposed to be even hotter, so the long run might not be so long.

Just signed up for a neat 5k in a couple weeks-- it's on one of the runways at our local airport! Certainly a unique location for a run, and it's probably going to be the flattest race I've ever done.

[emily_in_nc]

I would die for upper 60s! Have not been able to run this week at all -- just too hot. :(

[Crankin]

I was thinking about you, Emily when I was running yesterday. It was only about 78, with a nice breeze, but it was all unshaded and I didn't have water. My client runs very slowly, so I could take walk breaks and keep up, but I just wanted to get it over with! I get this certain feeling in my head, not dizzy, but weird.
I really don't like to run when it's over 62 or so.

[Susan Otcenas]

This morning, my training plan said "30 minutes easy. Then 5 miles at 150bpm. 1hr 10 min". I laughed out loud. Under no circumstances can I run 5 miles in 40 minutes and *certainly* not at 150bpm. :o

All in, 7.75 miles in 1:24. I think I averaged 10:46/mile for the 5 miles at 150bpm. I'd have to run 8 minute miles to do that distance in 40 minutes! Seriously, I don't know what my coach was thinking.

[jessmarimba]

9 this morning. Harder than expected after a trail run/speed hike up a nearby "mountain" the other day. But if my math is correct (and the only person with a garmin accidentally shut it off halfway through the run) we're running about 30 seconds/mile faster than last year. Pretty much at my unexpectedly fast half marathon race pace last year. I just have to not break anything for the next 4 months...

[emily_in_nc]

I was thinking about you, Emily when I was running yesterday. It was only about 78, with a nice breeze, but it was all unshaded and I didn't have water. My client runs very slowly, so I could take walk breaks and keep up, but I just wanted to get it over with! I get this certain feeling in my head, not dizzy, but weird.
I really don't like to run when it's over 62 or so.

Thanks for feeling my pain! I thought about running this morning as it was "only" 79. However, the wind was GUSTING, and there was debris all over the beach from heavy wind and rain overnight. And SO muggy. It's been raining/windy all day with a high of only 81. Just not in the mood to run... :(

[Crankin]

Well, my 5K is next Saturday, and I have run twice in 10 days. I am firmly entrenched in the cycling season.
But, I'm going to do the run for my friend who is the development officer of the hospital it's for, and if I have to walk, I will. I know i can run 3 miles. I just haven't done it in a long time. My last two runs were only about 2.5.
My only goal is to do better than the last time I ran this race, which shouldn't be too hard, as it was 98 degrees and humid.

[skhill]

Emily, I was thinking about you too this morning, as it was my hottest run of the year (so far), 75 F at dawn. You're helping all of us in more temperate areas keep it in perspective!

Today's 5 miles included some intervals on the track. Boy, was it hot. I was very glad the water fountain was working today...

[7rider]

I'm not sure what the temp was for most of my weekend runs - I just know that it was hot and sticky and I was a soaking wet mess by the end of it all.

I've been trying to stick to flat MUTs and easy paces this weekend. At the Ft. Richie Du, the hills and pace caused my calf injury to flare up, and so close to my big race, I didn't want that happening again.

Friday was 3 miles on a MUT to try Endurolytes (http://www.hammernutrition.com/products/endurolytes.elt.html)in the heat. I know I'll need the electrolytes for my race next weekend, and I need to get a few events (run and bike) under my belt with them in my tummy to make sure they work for me.
Sunday was my program's LSD group run: 6.2 miles. More heat and humidity. More Endurolytes. I really think they help. I also used them Saturday during a hot bike ride - and it kept my post-hot ride migraine from happening, so that's a success right there.
Today was my club's Memorial Day 4-miler. Not so hot, but it thundered and poured last night, so when we got onto the MUT in the shade of the trees, it was like a steam room. The humidity was oppressive. Quarter mile uphill finish. Ugh. 45 minutes, nearly on the button for an 11:15 pace - solidly average (or training) for me. No PRs today. As per usual, I finished in the front group of the final third of finishers. The winner did it in just over 20 minutes! :eek: Then, DH and I took the TT bikes out into the park for a 35 mile ride. Hot. Forgot the Endurolytes. Am pooped.

And thus is the summary of my weekend of running and biking.

Enjoy the heat, all.

[7rider]

A tad off topic, but Emily....was just thinking of you!

I got the new Athleta (http://www.athleta.com/?tid=atgotb1&kwid=1&ap=7&sem=true&mkwid=6950VLGq&adid=nguyrgrn&creative=12023083764&adpos=1t1)catalog in the mail today (not sure why I still get it - I'm too cheap to buy anything from it!). Anyway...the back page says "Athlete awould like to thank Tranquility Bay Resort where portions of this catalog were shot on location in Ambergris Caye, Belize"

I was like - Whoa! :eek: Ambergris Caye?? I know that! I've heard of that!
So...is that a pretty cool place or what??

Anyway...that was my diversion for the day! :p

[emily_in_nc]

A tad off topic, but Emily....was just thinking of you!

I got the new Athleta (http://www.athleta.com/?tid=atgotb1&kwid=1&ap=7&sem=true&mkwid=6950VLGq&adid=nguyrgrn&creative=12023083764&adpos=1t1)catalog in the mail today (not sure why I still get it - I'm too cheap to buy anything from it!). Anyway...the back page says "Athlete awould like to thank Tranquility Bay Resort where portions of this catalog were shot on location in Ambergris Caye, Belize"

I was like - Whoa! :eek: Ambergris Caye?? I know that! I've heard of that!
So...is that a pretty cool place or what??

Anyway...that was my diversion for the day! :p

Cool! Tranquility Bay is gorgeous! It's way north -- the farthest resort north on the island (practically touching Mexico). We've only been up there once, in a neighbor's boat. It is quintescential (can't spell!) Caribbean. Let me dig up a photo to post!

http://i816.photobucket.com/albums/zz82/emilys7atgmaildotcom/IMG_1936800x600.jpg

[SadieKate]

This morning, my training plan said "30 minutes easy. Then 5 miles at 150bpm. 1hr 10 min". I laughed out loud. Under no circumstances can I run 5 miles in 40 minutes and *certainly* not at 150bpm. :o

All in, 7.75 miles in 1:24. I think I averaged 10:46/mile for the 5 miles at 150bpm. I'd have to run 8 minute miles to do that distance in 40 minutes! Seriously, I don't know what my coach was thinking.Ha! That's why I love my current run training program: run up until you fall over.

We're running up the trail toward Newberry Crater/Paulina Rim trying to train for a half marathon with a long hill. Seriously, June 17th when I switch back to riding can't come soon enough.

[yellow]

Seriously, June 17th when I switch back to riding can't come soon enough.

Whaddya mean? I KNOW you are doing some cross training on the bike. Or maybe the running is the cross training. In any event, I'm hurt that you direct such negativity for running :rolleyes:


All, I have a rematch with the Squaw Peak 50 (miles, not kilometers) this weekend. Wish me luck. I am bound and determined to finish it running this year.

[SadieKate]

Whaddya mean? I KNOW you are doing some cross training on the bike. Or maybe the running is the cross training. In any event, I'm hurt that you direct such negativity for running :rolleyes: It's a love/hate relationship, and I've sort of reached a seasonal limit.

[OakLeaf]

Good luck Yellow! If the course feels long it's because it's trying to run away from YOU. :D


I've been running short and easy but pretty regularly. Mostly trying to rehab my neck and back. Geez. The back is slowly but pretty steadily improving. The neck on the other hand ... actually, we just started a new approach that might be the one. Touch wood, I haven't had any symptoms coming from discs in the upper back so we've kind of been neglecting that - but it started seeming to me that that's what's pulling the rest of my spine out. We did a whole bunch of work on it yesterday in PT and I've got several new exercises to do at home. Touch wood that this all pans out, because I am very tired of having half my body partially numb.

Anyway I saw two of the fox kits again yesterday. Their red fur has come in and their tails are a little longer, but they're still pretty puppyish. Didn't see their mom. So cute!

[Susan Otcenas]

Good Luck, Yellow! Will look for a race recap.

I overslept and didn't go for my scheduled 45 minute run before work, so it looks like a lunchtime run for me (which I really dislike.) Goody gumdrops.

[jessmarimba]

Good luck yellow!! Thinking of you doing 50 will make my 12 so much easier to bear.

So guys - we do a potluck of sorts after our "benchmark" mileage this Saturday. Any suggestions on what you would want after a long run that will also keep ok in a car/cooler for about 2 hours? I wanted to try and do homemade pretzel rolls with cheese but I still haven't figured out how to bake things at altitude.

[emily_in_nc]

I finally got out for a 3 mile beach run this morning as it was overcast after heavy rain overnight and "only" 80F. Felt pretty good. I think if I can just run once a week or so during the really hot time of the year, coupled with riding, I can maintain enough fitness to start increasing my running mileage (and number of days per week) again in the fall. I'm not going to kill myself if I can't (or won't!) do that during the summer here.

I'll be in the states visiting my mom and step-dad in NC next week but not sure I'll try to run there as it is seriously hilly where they live (western NC). I always get very sore shin muscles just taking walks there, and after living on the flat beach, it will be even worse than when I lived in the piedmont area of NC (rolling). I think I'll just be happy with fast walks. It's supposed to be low 60s in the morning to low 80s for highs so should feel absolutely DELIGHTFUL after this heat. :) :) :)

[skhill]

Good luck, yellow! I'll be thinking of you while I'm doing my 9 miles...

Finished off May with a beautiful run. Just shy of 7 miles, including one on the track. It's trash pickup day in some of the neighborhoods I went through, and it looks like a lot of folks took advantage of last weekend's furniture sales. Lots of matresses and other beat-up furniture out at the curb.

[Susan Otcenas]

11 miles this morning. 2hrs 6 minutes at 11:30/mile. Still doing the slow-pace-low-heartrate thing, but at this level of effort my pace does not degrade. All my miles were +/- 20 seconds, varying mostly by the terrain.

It lightly rained for much of the run, but it was really warm (60 degrees at 6:30 am which is WAY warmer than it's been most days here lately) so even though I was wet, I managed not to be chilled.

I ended up with a weird chafe mark in a spot I don't normally chafe - high on my shoulder near my neck, from the bra strap. Just on one side, oddly. I really like this bra (it plays nice with my HR strap), so maybe I'll try a little BodyGlide next time I run in it.

[katluvr]

Today I consider my self a "real" runner. I know I run and do many events. But at times I don't feel really like a runner for various reasons including, not looking like a runner, not fast, I won't ever win a race or age group and there are days that I just don't feel like running. BUt today I ran 13 miles in the rain, pouring rain at times. I think only us "real runners" do something like that! I got up and watched the radar and there were bands and bands of rain coming. I considered all my options of postponing my 13 mile run, but I have biking and paddle boarding planned this weekend. Plus I need to run 15 miles on Tuesday as I am going out of town for work and will not have a chance for a long run for over a week. So I put on my clothes and out I went.

So it rained or poured about 75% of the run. Good news was it made my run comfortable temperature wise....kept the heat under control. I felt pretty good through most of the run.

Wanted to thank Susan for the information about compression calf sleeves. I did run in them last week for my 12 miler. They did make my legs HOT. But I think overall I felt better after the run. So I pulled those suckers on again today for this long run.

Now if I can just get my "during the week" training more consistent!

K

[Susan Otcenas]

Wanted to thank Susan for the information about compression calf sleeves. I did run in them last week for my 12 miler. They did make my legs HOT. But I think overall I felt better after the run. So I pulled those suckers on again today for this long run.



:) For my long run yesterday I wore my CWX compression knickers, but skipped the socks because it was so humid out. Really regretting that choice today as my calves are sore and I was bordering on a charlie horse last night just walking around the house. Last weekend I ran a half marathon in my compression knickers and CEP socks and had virtually no soreness afterwards.

I have a half ironman in two weeks and have to make some clothing decisions here soon. Biggest decision has been whether or not to wear the compression socks. I know I *should* but usually I wear them with knickers when I run, so it sort of just looks like tights. But I really hate the shorts-with-tall-sock look on me. My legs are "stout" and I feel really goofy wearing an outfit that basically just exposes my knees. The pros can look cool doing it, but as a short, stout, back-of-the-pack, middle-aged female, I feel a bit silly. Which is ridiculous, because they really ARE helping me run much better and recover way faster. Which begs the whole "why do I give a rip what other people think" question.... Good question.

[Blueberry]

I have a half ironman in two weeks and have to make some clothing decisions here soon. Biggest decision has been whether or not to wear the compression socks. I know I *should* but usually I wear them with knickers when I run, so it sort of just looks like tights. But I really hate the shorts-with-tall-sock look on me. My legs are "stout" and I feel really goofy wearing an outfit that basically just exposes my knees. The pros can look cool doing it, but as a short, stout, back-of-the-pack, middle-aged female, I feel a bit silly. Which is ridiculous, because they really ARE helping me run much better and recover way faster. Which begs the whole "why do I give a rip what other people think" question.... Good question.

I bet most of them are thinking "D@mn I wanna be her." Seriously - you rock. Don't ever let anyone tell you you don't.

[Veronica]

Wear the socks; you'll feel better.

Can you get them on quickly in transition? I swear it takes me five minutes to get them on. :eek:

Veronica

[Susan Otcenas]

Can you get them on quickly in transition? I swear it takes me five minutes to get them on. :eek:


No. I'm an uncoordinated klutz. At my Half Iron 2 years ago, I made the big mistake of trying to put them on in T1. Seriously bad idea. Longest T1 EVER. After a long and brutally cold swim, my hands were non functional.

If I wear them I will put them on before the swim. I swim with neoprene swim booties (I'm a human popsicle), so they won't get dirty on the run from the water to my bike. I'll simply strip off my wetsuit and booties, put on my shoes, and be good to go. I'd expect them to dry out over 58 miles.

Alternatively, I could wear compression calf sleeves under my wetsuit, and put on regular (dry) short socks in T1 to wear on the bike and run. This would be preferable f I had concerns about the wet socks drying out. I don't want to run in wet socks. I've NEVER chafed or blistered in my compression socks, but I've also never run in them after they've been wet for 58 miles either.

[Crankin]

Wear the socks, Susan.
So, my 5K is tomorrow. Weather forecast at the start: 55, showers, chance of heavy downpours/thunderstorms.
Lovely. What should I wear?

[Susan Otcenas]

Wear the socks, Susan.
So, my 5K is tomorrow. Weather forecast at the start: 55, showers, chance of heavy downpours/thunderstorms.
Lovely. What should I wear?

I would choose a light knicker, a thin long sleeve performance tee and a cap with a brim to keep the rain off my glasses. I'd rather risk being a little too warm (at which point I can push up the sleeves) than be too cold. But, I chill very very easily and my Raynaud's kicks in at the drop of a dime. When I look around, I'm usually the most warmly dressed person visible. :o So, perhaps my advice just sucks. ;)

Good luck on your race!! Looking forward to a race report.

[OakLeaf]

Good luck Crankin, and have fun!

I'm always cold too, but you'll warm up fast in a race. If you do go with long sleeves, make sure the sleeves can be pushed up as Susan suggested, and also a long zipper at the neck will help. But I'd also give yourself an option in case it doesn't wind up raining. Wool socks for sure.

[Catrin]

I ran this week. Monday an entire mile, and did the same thing Tuesday. This was at the gym during a class and it wasn't all at once. This is nothing compared to what you ladies are able to do - and frankly that is what my bike is for. However, I DID IT :) My knees were only moderately unhappy with me later - but my hamstrings were most unhappy and are finally about over it 3 days later. No riding since Monday morning because of it. Who would have figured that running would get hammies cranky :confused:

I am not about to take up running at 52, though if my knees were better I would love to take up trail running. I am starting a 6 week free summer cross-training class at my gym that will revolve around a physical challenge that the class starts/ends with and in-between we work with a trainer twice a week on various ways to get better and the running is a small portion of it.

It was kind of fun to just start running though - and my heart rate didn't get any higher than it does on the bike. I think I can see the attraction.

[Crankin]

Your clothing suggestions are very much what I thought. I do get very warm when I run, but rain at that temperature could mean slight hypothermia for me. I was actually thinking of a very light wool LS base layer, where I could push the sleeves up. I do have a LS PI running jersey with a 1/4 zip, but it might be heavier than I want. I was thinking the wool would keep me warm in the rain.
I hate wearing hats, but I have a long visor running cap.
I haven't run in a week, but somehow I am looking forward to this. The last time I did this race, my time was 34:00 exactly and I think I am way ahead of this, but who knows. MY goal is 30:00.

[Veronica]

So, my 5K is tomorrow. Weather forecast at the start: 55, showers, chance of heavy downpours/thunderstorms.
Lovely. What should I wear?

I have a wool bike jersey that I wear when it's cold and rainy. It's got a pretty long zipper so I can ventilate if I need to and knickers.

Have a great time!

Veronica

[Catrin]

Have fun Crankin, have a great time and I am sure you will meet your goal!

[emily_in_nc]

Good luck, Crankin! Maybe the rain will hold off, and it will just be overcast and coolish -- much better than too hot, no? I'm sure you'll do great!

[7rider]

Wear the socks, Susan.
So, my 5K is tomorrow. Weather forecast at the start: 55, showers, chance of heavy downpours/thunderstorms.
Lovely. What should I wear?

When I did a 10k in similar conditions (light mist - didn't actually have a big chance of rain for the event), I wore shorts, compression calf sleeves, a light LS base layer under a tri top and my Pearl Izumi vest. And a brimmed hat. I ended up carrying the vest, but probably for a 5k, you wouldn't need to.

Good luck with it!

[jessmarimba]

Wear the socks, Susan.
So, my 5K is tomorrow. Weather forecast at the start: 55, showers, chance of heavy downpours/thunderstorms.
Lovely. What should I wear?

Only thing I'd do differently than everyone else has suggested, is short sleeves and arm warmers rather than a long-sleeved tech tee. But that's just me - I hate long sleeves pushed up that keep falling down, and I HATE having fabric bunched in my sweaty elbows :)

Good luck!

----------------------------------------------

I'm also a human popsicle - one of the reasons I don't swim - and I want to learn. Looks like I'm going to have to remember to ask about tips to keep warm when I do. Haven't gotten in a pool since I developed Raynaud's.

----------------------------------------------

Supposed to run 12 tomorrow. I have a cold. So far, just painful ears and a stuffy nose, so hopefully I can slog through it (or at least most of it), if just slower than usual. And since no one offered any food suggestions for the "potluck," I bought Nutter Butters. If no one eats them...more for me!!

[Crankin]

OK, well, it's all a moot point.
Right after I wrote my last post last night, my eyes started itching and nose running. By 8 PM, it was a full blown allergy attack, or something. I took a Claritin and went to bed. Then my muscles started aching like crazy. I had a pretty bad night.
I woke up and it's not just raining. It's pouring. If I felt better, I might have done it, but... I am trying to be good and not do anything to make me sicker. Since I considered doing this run as a "gift" to my friend who is the development officer at the hospital, she will appreciate my entry fee as a donation. We are going out to dinner with them tonight, and I have to rest up for that :)... priorities, right?
Seriously, I took an Advil and I am still sneezing and achy. Probably all of that yellow stuff I breathed in on my ride with Hirakukibou yesterday.

[katluvr]

Susan you make me laugh, as I quote you : My legs are "stout" and I feel really goofy wearing an outfit that basically just exposes my knees. The pros can look cool doing it, but as a short, stout, back-of-the-pack, middle-aged female, I feel a bit silly."

I am 4 foot 10 inches tall with legs like tree trunks and I'm slow. So I am sure I was not very athletic looking or attractive...off course all was doing was running through the rain and puddles. I have NEVER done knee socks. Just the fact that you do all you do I think that makes up for looking silly. Of course I DO understand how you feel! I just gave up all vanity for running! Do/wear what you need to and kick some middle age butt!

K

[jessmarimba]

I did it. I dragged myself out of bed and got through 12 this morning. My nose is still running, my head still hurts, and my ears are still clogged, but I don't really feel any worse off for doing it. And I slowed down a little, but not as much as I was expecting. After about 10 miles I caught up to one of our coaches, who ran a marathon 4 months ago at my goal pace for this year so I was pretty happy.

Also, random tidbit of info, I was looking for music for my ipod last night since I knew I wouldn't be with my usual running buddy. NPR has a ton of free concerts on itunes that I just discovered. Pretty neat.

[emily_in_nc]

Crankin, so sorry you are feeling bad -- if your muscles ached too, it almost sounds like the flu or at least a bad cold, not just allergies. :(

Sorry you were unable to do the 5K. Maybe try for one in the fall?

[OakLeaf]

Aw bummer, Crankin. Hope you feel better soon.

[Crankin]

No, I didn't have the flu. It's part of my fibromyalgia/immune whatever response to whenever I get sick. I've had this for about 25 years... whenever I get sick, usually at the end of the illness, I get these muscle aches on one side of my body. Yeah, it's weird, and no one can figure it out, but I take it as knowing my body is fighting off something. This came on quickly, was definitely allergy related. The aches were on both sides of the body, which was a little different, and very intense. They were pretty much gone by 6 PM last night. Still not 100%, but good enough to do an easy ride today, as it's going to be raining for the next 3 days.
I highly suspect this is my body's way of telling me I'm over training. Thursday, I rode to the gym, did an intense circuit training class, rode home (total of about 16 miles), and then did a 3 mile walk with a client at the end of the day. Friday I rode 38.5 miles, and while it was a social ride, it wasn't super slow, and it was hilly.
The run went well, according to my friend, despite the rain. I may try to do another 5K later in the year, but I am done with running until the fall. Well, maybe some trail runs :).

[solobiker]

I have not gone for a run for some time due to various reasons..but today I was able to sneak in a 60 min run which felt pretty good. I got up early and was running by 6am to beat the heat It was such a beautiful morning and so quiet. I was suprised that I was able to run that long because yesterday I went on a mtn bike ride (18 miles) and it was my first time out on my bike since last year..not including my short bike commute to/from work. Maybe there is something to drinkng that chocolate milk after my ride..:D