C'mon, somebody must be running!

[OakLeaf]

Where's everyone been? How's the running going?

I've decided to run NYC as a fun run. I was so close to burnout after Boston that I just couldn't get excited about actual training, but I didn't really want to defer either, who knows what might happen in a year. So, I'm just building mileage back, and picking up a 5K here and there and calling it speedwork. :cool: PR'd last week, actually, which astounded me since it was brutally hot and humid, and I was expecting to run MUCH slower. But it was an evening race, which my body seems to like, as much as my head doesn't. And, I tried pre-cooling for the first time, without planning it - it was just so hot when I started warming up, and they had a snow cone stand in the start-finish area, so I got a cup of shaved ice with just a splash of syrup and ate as much as I could without letting it melt. Something must've worked!

I also just got a new pair of Altra Torin 1.5 - those shoes and also their One2 are on a new last with a much wider toe box. Unsurprisingly I could still use a scoche more width, but they're about the same in my trouble spots as the 4E Nike Structures I've been running in, and the zero drop is soooooo nice. My chronic Achilles trouble just goes away when I run in those shoes. Yay. I've already ordered a second pair, since these will have too many miles on them before November.

And, registration for Boston opens in a week and a half. Can't decide if I want to run it again. One thing about taking it easy in New York, is that I'll actually be a little bit better positioned to carry more fitness through to a spring marathon if I choose.


Your turn!!

[Catrin]

I keep tweaking my right knee when I try to run - going back to my unplanned trail 5K (solo) in June... So I am living vicariously through you and the others here. I might eventually need to get it checked out, but that is another story...and it IS improving!

I can certainly understand your mixed feelings about Boston, but have fun whatever you choose do!

[zoom-zoom]

I have a duathlon tomorrow...then one 5 days later, a CX race the day after that, then another duathlon 6 days after that. I'm already tired just thinking about it! :p

[roo4]

Zoom-zoom, you should really try to get some exercise!:D

[zoom-zoom]

Zoom-zoom, you should really try to get some exercise!:D

Ha, I think by this time next week I may have some regrets...biting off more than I can chew. I may skip the CX race and go heckle my friends, depending upon how I feel.

[OakLeaf]

Dang Zoom! Good luck!

[Jolt]

I'm training for a half marathon (MDI Half in Bar Harbor) in October...did the week's long run of 8 miles today. I should have done it Saturday, but had such a rough night on call beforehand (read: no sleep) that I was a bum and put it off. So...today it was, in the high humidity and already 80 degree temps this morning. Yuck. But, I got it done and feel good that I did.

[GLC1968]

I'm in training for another half marathon in October. It's a new one for me...the Portland Half. I have friends coming in from out of town to run with me (some doing the full), so it should be a good time. I hope the weather cooperates! I'm also thinking I should sign up for the Holiday Half as well (registration just opened for the Dec race).

Yesterday was 8 miles - I ended up with 8.4 with a spot-on pace for my plan. Considering how many mid-week runs I've missed this summer, that pace shocked me. Now that I think about it though, I had a lot going for me. I was well fed from an amazing brunch, it was a late afternoon run (I'm always faster in the afternoons) and it was a gorgeous cool day (high of 75!). If only all long runs could go like that one!

[yellow]

I ended up having long-postponed shoulder surgery in mid-July, so I didn't do any more events after Bighorn in June. I just started running again a couple of weeks ago (with instructions of "don't fall!!!!"). I wasn't sedentary during the 5+ weeks I took off from running (I walked and hiked and rode the spin bike as much as I could stand to), but it's been tough getting back at it. My motivation kind of took a holiday, and I think it's still jet lagged. That, combined with the pain of restarting, has made for a less than stellar return. I will miss a 50k at the end of Sept that I signed up for but will probably still do a trail half marathon I also signed up for mid-month. I'm still undecided. I can do the distance (I did 15 miles on Saturday--slowly), but I'm not sure I want to. I hope my motivation wakes up soon.

And I have been busy with my new puppy <3

[Jolt]

Cute puppy...congratulations!

[VeganBikeChick]

OMG. Such a cutie!

[GLC1968]

Oooh, puppy! This thread just improved exponentially with the addition of a puppy! ;)

He/she is adorable! Name?

[yellow]

It's a girl, and her name is Bea (say bee). I've taken her on some really short jogs and so far she's done really well. She already heels and figured out pretty quickly that she will have to slow down for me. When off leash, she stays on the trail and doesn't get too far ahead. I think she will be a good running dog when she's grown up. For now it's lots of training and bonding and play time.

[OakLeaf]

Awwwwwww!

Hope you keep healing well. Shoulders are a bear ...

[solobiker]

I was doing a fair amount of running this summer until about 4weeks ago when I broke my toe. Ugh...It is finally starting to feel better so I may try to go for a short one tomorrow.

[TrekDianna]

I'm running. I have a half in October and my first full in January. I've not run much at all the last two weeks. I was in Beijing for a week and the pollution index was too high most of the time. I had a slight burn to breathe just walking around. This last week I was in Seoul and only got a two mile run in -- the car exhaust killed me. I am on the plane now, on my way home and can't wait to hit the trails and the clean Oregon air.

[zoom-zoom]

Woot -- 2nd Duathlon since Monday! 3rd in my AG (they only medaled the first 2 in each AG...why even bother having a 3 step podium?!). 2nd in my AG on the first run leg, tied for 1st on the bike leg, then 4th on the last run leg. Only 6 of us in my AG...that last run found the humidity and my relative lack of mileage and speed this Summer catching up with me -- probably some residual effects of the race on Labor Day, too. But I spent about 90% of my runs the past few months with my 13 year old to help him get ready for a couple of 5k races and cross-country. So I was OK with sacrificing some more specific training.

[VeganBikeChick]

WTG zoom!

I'm starting to run again after a 3 month hiatus. I had twisted my ankle in June and although it didn't take 3 months to heal, lack of motivation and high summer temps were curtailing any running I'd be doing. Ran yesterday and today. I've decided my new motivation to keep running is to reward myself based on number of days I've run, not number of pounds lost. I am running in part to lose some weight but also to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and sometimes those pounds are so stubborn to come off that I get easily discouraged. Seeing progress by continuing to run is encouragement for me.

[OakLeaf]

Solo, heal up fast.

Zoom, very nice!

VBC, that's a great strategy.

Trek, yikes. To think I'm worried about running in New York knowing that all it takes is 45 minutes of walking around (at a much slower pace than the natives!) for me to get an awful sore throat, every time I visit ... Good luck clearing the smog out of your lungs.

The weather broke here yesterday, thank goodness. Friday's 18 miler was just brutal. For some unknown reason I'd picked a super hilly route on a nearly 90 degree day, and I actually wound up intermittently walking a couple of miles, which has never happened to me before. Physically I probably could've kept up a slow jog, but the heat and humidity just sapped my motivation. Intervals today ...

[solobiker]

I made it through my run with only a bit of pain. I took it slow and paid close attention to how and where I placed my foot. Time will tell...I think I am back in the game. :-)

[BikeDutchess]

I did my first half marathon last weekend! Keep in mind that until this year, I swore that running was the worst form of torture ever invented. But two of my co-workers inspired me to sign up for the Disneyland Half Marathon, and I discovered the Galloway run-walk-run method, so there I was, at 5:30 in the morning, waiting for the starting gun with 15,951 other people (including DH). I had such a great time! Disney sure knows how to organize these things. Running through California Adventures and Disneyland into Anaheim, high school bands/cheerleaders all along the route in the city, lower bowl of Angel Stadium full of cheering people as we ran around the field, it was just incredible. And while it was much muggier than I was used to (93% humidity at the start!), I benefitted from the low altitude and flat course. My run intervals are still measured in seconds rather than minutes, but I finished in 2:55 which I was very happy with. Definitely want to keep running and hope to get faster eventually!

[GLC1968]

Great job, BikeDutchess! Congrats on your first half!!

I did my 9 mile training run on Saturday in our last (hopefully) HOT day of the year. It was 95F and humid (for us), so I was a little wilty-er than usual. I did start before it got too awful hot, so I survived. Managed to be close to my target pace (off by 5sec/mile).

Typically, Sundays are my long run days but I had a prior commitment on Sunday morning so I had to do it Saturday. It's a good thing too since on Sunday morning I tried to stop a falling glass bottle of BBQ sauce from shattering with my bare foot. Dumb. Not only was this my previously injured foot, but that was a HEAVY bottle. I now have a lovely lump and the start of a blue mark on my foot! It kept me up with pain last night, too. Fingers crossed that it heals quickly but I'm now thankful that I did my run on Saturday so I have 8 days to recover before the next one!

[Catrin]

Congratulations everyone, it all sounds good! I've been itching to trail run, but my knee is still getting over an ill-advised (apparently) 5-K trail run I did in June. Heal quickly GLC!

[zoom-zoom]

I did my first half marathon last weekend! ... Definitely want to keep running and hope to get faster eventually!

Yay, now you have a PR to crush! Nice job!!

[VeganBikeChick]

Frustrated! Started running again on Fri after 3 months off. Always a beginner runner before I lose interest or injure myself. Ran Fri, Sat, & Sun, took Mon off & ran again last night. Only 1.8 mi each run, so not long. I'm frustrated because each run is harder than the one before & my pace is slower & slower. I run the same route each time & am eating plenty. It should be getting easier. What am I doing wrong?!

[zoom-zoom]

Frustrated! Started running again on Fri after 3 months off. Always a beginner runner before I lose interest or injure myself. Ran Fri, Sat, & Sun, took Mon off & ran again last night. Only 1.8 mi each run, so not long. I'm frustrated because each run is harder than the one before & my pace is slower & slower. I run the same route each time & am eating plenty. It should be getting easier. What am I doing wrong?!

I suspect your body is telling you that you need to slow your pace. I know it can be hard to do that, but after extended breaks you can't pick up where you left off. Maybe stick to every-other day for a month, too. Run fewer days, but don't run the same distance every time. Perhaps 1-2 miles on some days and 3-4 on others. Change up your route (that's partly a safety thing. Don't make your workouts predictable for creeps).

[VeganBikeChick]

Thanks, Kirsten! I run during rush hour in a very busy part of the city and live in a locked building, so I'm not worried about the creepers. I will definitely take your advice into account. It's frustrating because it's such a small distance. I've never run long miles, but this certainly seems like it shouldn't be tripping me up. I appreciate your input.

[OakLeaf]

I agree, three consecutive days is a lot for anyone. Doesn't matter you don't respect your own effort. :) That's plenty mileage for not having run in a while. Varying distance (and pace) is good advice too. Practice running slowly, smoothly, on your longer runs.

I did an absolutely awesome yoga video today. It was Iyengar style, totally alignment focused, all about the feet. It was on yogaglo.com, a subscription site, but if anyone subscribes or wants to check it out, the teacher is Marla Apt. I'll definitely come back to that one often. Really helped me with mobilizing and working my feet, and feeling the connection between feet and hips and beyond.


BikeDutchess, way to go!! Very nice job, and great that it was so much fun!

GLC, heal fast ...

[BikeDutchess]

Thanks all! I'll have to set some new goals now - gradually increasing my run intervals is one. At least it's getting cooler now, so much nicer for running (and biking, for that matter).

[lph]

I'm running! After a couple of runs in VFFs that were way too hard on my calves (not the shoes fault, I'm just too impatient to shorten my run or change shoes underway) I ran twice this week in good ol'fashioned running shoes with fat cushy heels. The heels are in the way and catch on the other ankle every now and then, but it sure is nice to just slam my feet down on downhills ;-) I can feel that running in minimal shoes has changed - hopefully improved - my stride, so that I'm lighter on my feet, but running with cushioning sure makes it easier. I don't have to scan the terrain all the time and if I do do a heel strike it doesn't matter. I'll have to try switching shoes regularly.

I don't watch my time or pace, my regular run semicommute is just to make sure I get weight-bearing exercise in addition to cycling. I enjoy the improvement in form, though, feeling my body and breathing adapt. I'm pretty sure I could not run even two days in a row though, let alone three.

I tried a kind of run meditation described on the Chi Running website (thanks for the tip, Oak), that was fun. Concentrating on one sense at a time helps the time pass and is pretty interesting.

[OakLeaf]

FWIW, Altra makes shoes with varying amounts of cushion and sole flexibility, all with zero heel to toe drop. That alone makes a HUGE amount of difference to me. Even if I could run minimal, I wouldn't, since a lot of my running is on gravel roads - a couple of times I've bruised a foot THROUGH highly cushioned shoes. Love my new Torin 1.5s. I'm also finding that since I'm in minimal shoes pretty much any time I'm NOT running, that I've been able to adjust to them very quickly.

I went ahead and signed up for Boston. All I can think about is how I'm going to train for it this year. I guess that's a product of having already decided I wasn't going to devote too much mental or physical energy to New York. :rolleyes:

[Crankin]

Yay, Oak.
I am getting strong wanting to run again urges. Right now, I can't since I'm getting ready for my cycling trip, but tomorrow, I am going to see a really competent LMT, who works with elite athletes (of which I am not one) and school teams, to see if she can do some stuff to get my lumbar region and left shoulder settled down. This therapist came on a ride I led a couple of years ago, so I know her. While I love my MacKenzie PT, he's a bit further away, and my co-pay went up to 40.00, so what's 90.00 for massage??? I am going to go until my trip, and then re-evaluate.
I'd like to try some trail running, too, because I really like it, but I'll be happy to not have pain and enjoy my riding.

[solobiker]

Well since a little over 4weeks ago I was able to get back to running after breaking my toe. I am taking it slow with running only 3 miles last weekend and then 3 miles today. I can't push off hard off my broken toe side and the toe is still pretty swollen. I am just darn happy to be back out and at it because this is my favorite time of year. :D

[zoom-zoom]

So, dammit...I rolled my already crappy left ankle today on a walnut-sized green acorn. Pretty sure I suffered a grade 1 sprain. Have a duathlon in 2 days that includes 5 trail miles. If things are not considerably better by tomorrow night I'll probably not bother setting my alarm and running the race. I don't want to risk a worse injury and losing my entire CX season.

[OakLeaf]

Aw zoom, that stinks! Heal fast - but good decision on blowing off your upcoming event(s).

Solo, glad you're on the mend.

Crankin, be careful!

I did 8 yesterday and it was just unbelievable how sore I was from that yoga video! If someone had been watching me do the video they would've thought it was nothing at all. Just a handful of basic standing poses held for a long time with total concentration on the feet. Even after doing it just once my feet feel better aligned and my arches higher, but I'm sore clear up into my hips. THAT's what I'm talkin' about!!

Probably just a little recovery run on the MUP today, then I'll catch another local 5K in the morning and maybe do another couple miles after.

[Crankin]

OK, I survived my appt. with the LMT. Total myofascial release techniques.
First, she worked on my shoulder, with me sitting in a chair. It hurt like hell, but she did confirm I really am "crooked," from my late diagnosed scoliosis (at age 16), and explained how my body is compensating. Then, I got on the table and she worked on my back and right hamstring. Then, after slowly getting up from that torture, she showed me how to do self massage with a ball in a sock. She didn't come on heavy that I need to come back, said give it 10 days of self-work, and maybe come back for a 30 minute session before my trip.
I can't believe I wasted 4 years with the PT. She told me the foam roller will not help and gave me some advice about how to sit when I am working with my clients. It was worth the 95.00, even though I thought I might get a professional courtesy discount. But, her 19 year old son is in the Marines in San Diego, and she was very impressed with my son's journey and accomplishments. So I took his phone and email and told her my son would be happy to give him advice.
Only in Concord would you find an LMT with degrees from Mt. Hoyoke and Columbia.
Going to ask my neighbor for a lacrosse ball!

[BikeDutchess]

OK, I'm probably crazy, but I decided to do another half marathon only 2 weeks after my first. This one was all downhill - needless to say I PR'd but it sure was more painful. My legs will be quite sore! It was beautiful coming down that canyon, with the leaves starting to turn. Other than some snafus with not having enough buses (delaying the start), the race was well organized. But I think I'm done with these HMs for a while now! :)

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5582/15041229389_9f30b99ef2_n.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oV9etc)
Big Cottonwood Half Marathon (https://flic.kr/p/oV9etc) by DutchRosie (https://www.flickr.com/people/48330200@N04/), on Flickr

zoom-zoom, how did things go, did you recover enough to race or did you decide to skip it?

[OakLeaf]

Yikes BikeDutchess, you really do have the bug, don't you? :D It does look like a beautiful place to run.

Crankin, glad you had a good session! Hope you get lasting relief.

I did another local 5K this morning. Just one second slower than the night race three weeks ago, so I guess maybe that wasn't a fluke.

I just realized, I must be handling my brush with burnout right, because I'm having fun again. :)

[Crankin]

Oak, so I was totally sore in my shoulder yesterday, and, interestingly, on the opposite side of my back, from where the big issue is. I almost felt like I was in a spasm. I had told the LMT I was going to be riding 80-100 miles over 2 days and she said it was OK. So, I rode 41 miles yesterday and then came home and used the neck/shoulder shaped heating pad which totally did the trick. Woke up this morning with just mild stiffness in the spot that is the problem in my lumbar area and did my stretches and now using heat on my back before my hilly ride today. I will start with the self massage tomorrow, as per instructions.
I wish I could stand up at work, but I can't stand and look down at my clients!

[solobiker]

Zoom-Zoom, I hope your ankle heals fast. I was sorry to have read this.

Oak, good for you on the running and having fun again. Yeah!

I went on run #3 since breaking my toe. It still hurts a bit and today during my run my legs felt so heavy/dead and my HR was higher then usual. I did managed to get in 3 miles. I figure the fatigue could be related to my recent lack of running and I have been having fewer carbs recently.

Hope everyone is doing well.

[zoom-zoom]

Zoom-Zoom, I hope your ankle heals fast. I was sorry to have read this.

It's healing fast, but it was still in no shape for the race on Sat. Pretty sure I need to stop running trails altogether. I'm even wondering if snowshoe running is such a good idea (you know, <1 year after investing in running snowshoes, ha!) this Winter.

Awesome to see so many Fall races. Had I not just sprained my ankle I'd likely do a 5k in a couple of weeks. It's part of the same race event that holds my favorite half marathon of all I've run. It ends with live music on a deck with BBQ at a nearby brewpub.

[OakLeaf]

Aw, Zoom, keep healing ... and all the time you would've been racing, spend it on rehabbing the ankle y'know?

I found out yesterday that the 5K I did on Saturday was sponsored by a LRS and it was so small that I finished third overall and won a $15 gift card! Hahahaha ... last time I finished a race in the money was a looooooong time ago. I know perfectly well that it's all in who shows up, but I'm pretty glad now I ran it hard even though I had no real competition among the women, and the two men who beat me were far enough ahead that I wasn't racing them, either. I would've been embarrassed to collect a gift card if I'd just cruised. :o But the whole idea of entering was that it's my speedwork, so I gave it what I had.

So yesterday I reprised the crazy hills I did last Friday. They haven't gotten any less steep, I lost count of the >20% grades on that route, but it was 20 degrees cooler and what a difference that made. I was still flagging pretty good toward the end, until the thought went through my head that it's SUPPOSED to hurt, and so I thought, "Oh right, okay then" and picked up the pace again. :D

There's a little local half marathon on Saturday that I can't decide if I want to do or not. I probably should, but it's too hilly for me to really want to. It's a benefit for renovating the local high school/middle school track which desperately needs it, and which I'd probably use occasionally if it were in better shape. Of course I could just send them a donation and not run. :p

[OakLeaf]

So, I ran that little half this morning. It got to last night and I didn't really want to run, but I knew if I didn't, I'd wish I had. It wasn't as hilly as I'd been afraid of, they changed the course from prior years, so there were only a couple of short climbs over 15%, one steep gravel descent that I just picked my way down, and on the average right around 50 feet per mile elevation gain. I ran a 2:01 something, which I'm plenty happy with considering the terrain, my (lack of) training and my intention for the day. It was a chance to try out my new Altras on a tempo run, too, and they're still great, I'm sure now I'll be wearing the other pair for the marathon. Plus, it's a beautiful day. I probably wouldn't have run if it had rained!

[zoom-zoom]

I may have to try Altras at some point. A friend swears by them and they look like they'd fit a wider foot pretty well.

Managed my first CX race yesterday. Ankle was fine, but I was very careful going into dismounts (remounts still suck and I have to come to a complete stop to get back on the bike, ha). Didn't push the pace hard, either. But a couple of noob racers who should have been racing Bs lapped me 3/4 of the way through my 3rd lap. Had I known I'd only get 3 laps I would have pushed harder. After lap 2 I was told I had 2 more, so paced myself appropriately.

Today the ankle is a little stiff, but not really any worse for wear. Next CX race isn't for another 2 weeks, so by then I expect I'll be fully healed.

[solobiker]

Oak, way to go with your 1/2. That is great! I used to do those several years ago...I guess close to 13 years ago. Gosh where has time gone?

ZoomZoom, I am happy to hear your ankle is doing better and you were able to participate in CX race.

As I said above I used to run a fair amount several years ago. I had to stop due to frequent injuries and very tight hamstrings. I went for a short 3 miler today and of course my hamstrings tightened right up. blah. I may have to look into Altras as well because I do need a shoe with a wide toe box due to neuroma issues.

Happy running and racing everyone.

[OakLeaf]

Nice Zoom, glad your ankle stayed good, keep being careful with it.

Solo, if you haven't been running much, three miles isn't "short" at all. I can't even remember how many times I learned that the hard way when I first started running - really it's HOW I started running, learning that three miles wasn't just something I could do once every few weeks!

Now though ... first 20-miler of this cycle yesterday. It was just sooooo beautiful! It was an amazing fall day, the roads were just incredibly beautiful, and everything was so perfect that even the not-so-perfect parts of the run were still nice. Accidentally routing myself behind the landfill ... I was upwind and there was enough of a breeze that I smelled nothing at all (not like the last time I did that :rolleyes: ) - the machinery was mostly working elsewhere so it wasn't super loud - and I even got a look at their methane to electricity generating facility. :D The covered bridge that was covered with graffiti ... still a cute little covered bridge. And then there was the little pond with a bunch of turtles sunning themselves on a log, the tiny windy roads through the woods, the herd of goats with their herding dog, a few little creeks still running though it hasn't rained recently, and through it all the dry fall air, the leaves just beginning to turn, the quality of the light ... so beautiful.

I'm sore today, but even though I knew ahead of time that I would be, at this point I've done enough 20 milers that it isn't so much of a mental hurdle. It sure helped that I chose a route that wasn't quite as hilly my last two long runs, too. I'd mapped out a 20 that was at least as hilly, but decided I'd be nuts to try it yesterday. :p There's no flat around here, and there were still a few very steep hills, but in comparison it felt easy.

[GLC1968]

Hey All!

I've still been remiss about getting in my weekday runs but I did manage 11.5 yesterday in prep for a half marathon next Sunday. I needed the longer run for confidence as my running has been/felt lousy lately. The first half of the run was wonderful...actually, the first 2/3rds were pretty good. The last third was rough. I've got blisters on top of blisters and a toenail that is about to give up the ghost. My knees are a little achy today, too. I'm know the problem is that I don't run frequently enough, but it's days like today that make me question this whole endeavor.

And yet I'm minutes away from signing up for a December half. What is the definition of insanity? Jeeze.

[Owlie]

Took a little study break today and did Week 1, Day 1 of C25k. Went reasonably well, although it seems that grad school has turned me into a fat sack of crap. (I could probably still bike 15-20 miles with little problem, but still.) I packed it in a little early--all the rain we've had recently has meant that all the sand and dust that used to be on the side of the road is now in my apartment complex's parking lot (where I went to run, since it's convenient), and I think I sizeable percentage ended up in my throat, and the fact that it's so dry doesn't help. I am really bad about breathing through my mouth. :/

[lph]

Whee! I did my "long run" to work today, for the first time in ages. It's not really long, but it's almost twice as long as my regular run-commute, and the best part is that apart from slightly sore feet I feel great. I still have to take the metro the final stretch, but I was still uppity enough to run the final few hundred yards from the station to where I work.

I'm pretty certain I could run my entire commute now without any trouble. The only thing stopping me is that I would have to take the most direct route, which means pavement and traffic instead of winding leafy paths along the river. But it would be pretty awesome, to get in to work and have somebody ask me (for the umpteenth time) "wow, did you run to work" and be able to answer "why, yes!".

[Crankin]

That is really cool, lph.
Quite a few of you could run my commute to work... 5.2 miles.
But, I am pretty sure that if I ran there, I would not be running home! Sometimes, I even feel that way about commuting home on my bike, but of course, I don't have a choice.
On Monday, I was in my bike clothes and then decided not to commute. I had already been to the gym, and I was tired. Sometimes, these decisions are really smart. When I came out of work at 7 PM, it was 58 degrees and rainy/misty, with darkness making it feel colder. I wouldn't have minded riding in this, but I would not have been been prepared, as I would not have had a rain jacket or head cover. Rain was not predicted to start until much later.

[Owlie]

Another day of C25k week one yesterday. I might repeat week 1 next week too.

[OakLeaf]

Yesterday I had another 20 miler on the calendar and it was supposed to be clear and cool. I woke up to rain mixed with snow, in the middle of which the NWS helpfully changed the forecast from 20% chance of precipitation to 60%. :cool:

The radar looked like I might get a window later, but I knew myself well enough to know that if I went to the farmers' market and then came home, I was not going to run. I thought maybe the MUP would be safer and more pleasant in that kind of weather. So, I packed up a cooler full of ice packs for the food, a jar of water for the flowers I planned to buy, and threw my running clothes and gear into a sack, and hoped that my motivation was already in the car somewhere, because I was not finding it.

I did my shopping, drove to the next town for another store and where I planned to run, changed in a cold restroom and headed out. I gave myself permission to turn around early if I just couldn't motivate or if it started raining hard enough that I couldn't stay warm. Didn't see another soul for about four miles. As the weather cleared slightly and I passed through the next town, there were a few people out, but at least half of them seemed to be getting ready for their fall marathons too, most likely Columbus in two weeks. But there were even a couple of women on Brompton folding bikes, enjoying the wet leaves and dodging walnuts.

I got it done, hardly got hailed on at all, and here's the kicker: running at the same effort level I usually do my long runs in the hills, I ran it 1:15/mile faster than even the not-so-hilly loop I did last week. So now I know how much free strength and endurance training I get just by running in my own "backyard." :D

[zoom-zoom]

Another day of C25k week one yesterday. I might repeat week 1 next week too.

It's never a bad idea to repeat weeks as needed. The ones who get themselves into trouble are the those who doggedly stick to any plan when their body isn't quite ready to progress. Week 2 will always be there when you're ready for it.

[Catrin]

Oakleaf, that sounds great, fantastic even!

Owlie, you are doing well to listen to your body! My knee is only now recovering from an ill-advised trail 5K I did in early June. Week 2 isn't going anywhere until you are ready for it!

[GLC1968]

Great job getting it done, Oak...and fast, to boot! Nice!

I ran the Portland Half Marathon on Sunday. I had another friend running the half and two more doing the full, so it was a fun day. I ran the first 11 miles side by side with a friend from high school who was doing the full and we both agreed that those 11 miles were by far, the best of the day. We both faded fast after the split but luckily, I only had to survive two more. She had 15 more! Everyone agreed that it was a tough day and I think it was partly the heat. We are just not used to 85F and some humidity in October!

Anyway, despite a plethora of blisters on my toes, the heat, and those two tough miles, I was only 10 minutes off my PR for a half. Considering how undisciplined my training has been, I am not complaining. It was an EXTREMELY well done race though and I'm thinking I'll do it again next year to redeem myself.

My next will likely be a half in December. I'll sign up for it once I nail down my travel schedule for that month to make sure I'll be in town. :-)

[OakLeaf]

Yay GLC! Heat is brutal. Bet you'd have had a PR in better temperatures.

I'm a big fan of Band-Aid Advanced Healing Blister colloidal pads. I can usually run and walk pain free if I cover blisters with them. For blister prevention I'll pre-wrap my most blister prone toes, especially in hot or wet weather. I also slather my feet with Band-Aid Friction Block, which I think is better than Body Glide on feet. With that protocol (and with finally finding shoes that more or less fit!, and keeping problem calluses shaved) I haven't actually had a blister in a few years. I still use Body Glide anywhere else I need it, but the blue stick stays on feet longer IMO. Anyway hope they heal up fast.

[GLC1968]

Thanks for all the hints, Oak! I've never done any blister prevention for running before (mostly because I don't usually have blister issues), so this is very helpful. I was ready to dump my shoes and try new ones, but maybe my shoes are fine and I just need to think about some other prevention measures. Cool.

[zoom-zoom]

Yay GLC! Heat is brutal. Bet you'd have had a PR in better temperatures.

I'm a big fan of Band-Aid Advanced Healing Blister colloidal pads. I can usually run and walk pain free if I cover blisters with them. For blister prevention I'll pre-wrap my most blister prone toes, especially in hot or wet weather. I also slather my feet with Band-Aid Friction Block, which I think is better than Body Glide on feet. With that protocol (and with finally finding shoes that more or less fit!, and keeping problem calluses shaved) I haven't actually had a blister in a few years. I still use Body Glide anywhere else I need it, but the blue stick stays on feet longer IMO. Anyway hope they heal up fast.

Nice work, GLC!!

Also, I think Body Glide is absolute garbage. I don't know how it's so popular, because it's crap and it's $$. I gave up when I had several sticks totally crumble with 1/3 of the product remaining. A couple of ultra friends told me about Two Toms Sport Shield roll-on (I use it for "chub rub" and if I get raw spots around my bra band or anywhere else) and I've been hooked on that since. No need to reapply, unlike Body Glide. And they have a Blister Shield sock powder that is phenomenal. I don't get ANY blisters during races, ever. Hardly even any hot spots.

[OakLeaf]

Is that the stuff with teflon? Ew. No thanks. I lived in the Ohio Valley for a while, and even if I hadn't I wouldn't put the stuff on my body.

[zoom-zoom]

Is that the stuff with teflon? Ew. No thanks. I lived in the Ohio Valley for a while, and even if I hadn't I wouldn't put the stuff on my body.

Sport Shield: Dimethicone, Aloe Vera Extract, Vitamin E
Blister Shield sock powder contains PTFE (http://home.howstuffworks.com/nonstick-cookware5.htm), but it's not heated and since I only use it for longer races I'm using it maybe 5-6x/year, at most. I looked around and couldn't find any reliable risks associated with the stuff. I think I have a greater risk from the potential of a MRSA infection with a popped blister.

[OakLeaf]

Maybe I'm hyper-aware because I used to know people who worked at the Parkersburg plant and others who got their water from the contaminated well fields. But, I didn't realize that not all 2Toms products have PTFE.

[VeganBikeChick]

Was really looking forward to a decent run today, but with 90% chance of rain & thunderstorms predicted all day, guess it's not in the cards.

[OakLeaf]

Rainy and chilly here too. After a bunch of emotional drama in the morning I managed to drag myself out yesterday for a broken tempo run, actually the same workout I was doing the day I got hurt two and a half years ago. I was dressed well enough to stay warm and it never rained hard (today's recovery run might be a different story though). One more local 5K tomorrow, one more long run Monday or Tuesday, then taper. I've never been so blasé about a marathon before. Another new experience. :D

[OakLeaf]

Last long run before taper. I did the crazy hilly route I'd mapped out a few weeks ago, and it was crazy hilly, but I started confident and finished strong. It didn't hurt one bit that it started like this, and only got more beautiful as I got onto the more remote roads:

17428

[GLC1968]

I'm dumb. I went for a run on Sunday because it was chilly and dreary out (my favorite run weather) and my husband didn't want to ride until the afternoon. I was enjoying the cooler temps and since I knew I was only going to do 5 miles, I thought I'd pick up the pace. I was kicking it and having a blast when for no particular reason except my own inattentiveness, the sidewalk rose up to meet me...hard. I was about a mile into the run and almost pulled out my phone for my husband to come get me. I'd bashed both my knees and scraped my palms, but my left knee was the worst. It didn't hurt to run, so I did another 1.5 miles before I couldn't take it anymore and called for a ride.

It's now two days later and I'm not only limping from hitting it so hard, but I am not sleeping because of the painful road rash. My knees were covered by my tights but they got scraped up anyway. The left one is really angry and gross but oddly enough, the tights were not damaged!

[zoom-zoom]

OW!! BTDT (once in my own house where I forgot about the step out of the kitchen that had always been there).

[OakLeaf]

Ow GLC!! Heal quick! Shallow road rash is the most painful of all because it exposes all the nerve endings without damaging them enough to shut them up. DAMHIK ....

[Jolt]

Doing the MDI Half Marathon in Bar Harbor this Sunday...heading up tomorrow and making a mini-vacation out of it (going to do some biking, hiking etc. while there). Last long run (12 miles this past Monday) was absolutely horrendous so I hope that isn't any indication of how I will do...I am trying to blame the yucky run on being post awful night shift with basically no sleep but it still doesn't do good things for one's confidence. Weather for the race is looking good as of right now and it will be a very scenic course so I am looking forward to it. If I can beat my time from the Maine Half two years ago (2:40 and change--yes, I am wicked slow) I will be pleased.

[OakLeaf]

Jolt, hope your race went well!

We had beautiful weather today for the Columbus marathon, hope yours was similar. I went up and volunteered at packet pick-up on Friday since I wasn't going to be running this year. I had fun, checked in a few people I knew, enjoyed chatting with the other volunteers. I also wanted to hit the expo so I won't be tempted to shop in New York because I know it's going to be a zoo! The expo in Columbus was pretty sparse, but I accomplished my main goal, which was to grab a couple of throwaway sweatshirts from the Goodwill booth. :)

I had a little shoe trouble that's got me slightly worried ... I'd set aside a new pair of shoes for the marathon. Wore them for the first time last week, and somehow the far end of the tongue, that sits inside the toe box, folded over and chewed a big hole in the top of my middle toe. :( I've been able to bandage it enough to run without aggravating it, but it doesn't really want to heal, either, and I'm afraid to wear those shoes now. My other pair of the same model have few enough miles that I can race in them in a pinch, so I'm not totally stuck. I'm going to have to take the newer pair out for a few really short runs to see what happens ... probably call Altra tomorrow, they're a small company and might have suggestions.

[Jolt]

Jolt, hope your race went well!

We had beautiful weather today for the Columbus marathon, hope yours was similar. I went up and volunteered at packet pick-up on Friday since I wasn't going to be running this year. I had fun, checked in a few people I knew, enjoyed chatting with the other volunteers. I also wanted to hit the expo so I won't be tempted to shop in New York because I know it's going to be a zoo! The expo in Columbus was pretty sparse, but I accomplished my main goal, which was to grab a couple of throwaway sweatshirts from the Goodwill booth. :)

I had a little shoe trouble that's got me slightly worried ... I'd set aside a new pair of shoes for the marathon. Wore them for the first time last week, and somehow the far end of the tongue, that sits inside the toe box, folded over and chewed a big hole in the top of my middle toe. :( I've been able to bandage it enough to run without aggravating it, but it doesn't really want to heal, either, and I'm afraid to wear those shoes now. My other pair of the same model have few enough miles that I can race in them in a pinch, so I'm not totally stuck. I'm going to have to take the newer pair out for a few really short runs to see what happens ... probably call Altra tomorrow, they're a small company and might have suggestions.

Just checked results...time was 2:15:04 which is WAY better than I did in my half two years ago (that one was 2:40 and change...largely to do with having run that one on very poor sleep because I had been on overnight call). Weather was good for running--50 degrees and overcast, though some wind at the beginning. Everyone had talked about how hard and hilly the course was, but it was not as hard as I had expected--yes there were hills, but mostly longer gradual inclines which are the kind of hills I tend to do well with (it's the short steep ones that are a real bugger). Plus, I had made sure to seek out some nasty hills in training which definitely paid off. During the first few miles I had a lot of people passing me, but after about mile 5 or 6 I started catching quite a few people who must have gone out too fast, or maybe I sped up a little once warmed up. I also saw someone get proposed to at the finish line just after I finished...I had ended up running the last couple miles with her, she had mentioned that her boyfriend had run as well but was way ahead, and when she crossed the finish line he was waiting and next thing I saw was him down on his knee! A race to remember for the happy couple for sure. Oak, hope your race goes well and that you sort out your shoe trouble!

[OakLeaf]

Jolt, super job! Congratulations!

[BikeDutchess]

Wow, Jolt, that's great! And what a romantic thing to witness at the end. It's true love when being a sweaty mess does not stand in the way of the proposal!

[Jolt]

Yes, it was quite romantic! Normally I am not a fan of the whole public proposal thing (some of them really put the person on the spot which is not cool) but this one was cute and not over the top.

[katluvr]

I am about to sign up for a marathon that is 16 weeks away....
So about 14 years ago my mom had a mastectomy and chemo. She's had a few scares and reoccurrences along the way but controlled with oral meds. 2 years ago she had full chemo again with resulting neuropathy, she also had radiation that she finished a year ago. She had 1 good PET scan but now it's back. We are now at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville seeking our next options. Sure she is 78, but she is otherwise heathy and not ready to give in. So, I've done the 26.2 with Donna half marathon 2-3 times and the full marathon once (my 1 and only marathon). But as I drive onto the Mayo campus I see the parking lot and area that the race starts from and I feel it calling me. Sure I could just do the 1/2, the distance I a comfortable to do even with poor training. But I feel I should be challenged and I need some structure right now.
So the big issue for me is the consistency. As some of you may have read my posts before, I can usually get the long runs in, but running consistently mid-week is always a challenge.
Today's run was a 10 miler in prep for a trail 1/2 marathon I have in a little over 2 weeks. I am doing a 10 K trail run this weekend. So I am running. Now to get a plan and stick with it! So you might see me posting a bit more here as I should be running a little more consistently!
K

[katluvr]

Beginning of running consistently: 3 miles today. Didn't feel too bad after yesterday's 10.
K

[OakLeaf]

Yay Kat! Your weather should be cooling off, eh? You'll nail this. :)

Just in time for "nothing new on race day," the NYT decides to print this piece (http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/10/29/sports-gels-can-improve-marathon-times-but-pace-them-right/?_php=true&_type=blogs&ref=health&_r=0) about a study where mid-pack marathoners who ate a gel every 20 minutes ran considerably faster than the control group. :eek:

But, it's not a goal race, and I'd planned to experiment with nutrition anyway, in a way I really can't on training runs. My plan was to take at least some Gatorade from the aid stations - not my habit, since I don't train with Gatorade, both because it wreaks havoc on my gut the next day and because I don't want to clean it out of my hydration pack. But I was just so nauseous at Boston that I couldn't even take the gels I'd planned, and I know that hurt me in the end, so I did want to try running on Gatorade. I may as well take some at a LOT of the aid stations and see how that works.

I'm getting excited. :)

[salsabike]

I'm getting excited. :)

Wishing you a great time!

[OakLeaf]

Thanks! I had a great time! The crowd energy was incredible, and there were a LOT of international runners which made it very cool. I even nailed my clothing, which I was stressing about since I'd never run in that kind of wind before. It was totally worth getting up at 3:30 am. (but thank goodness for daylight savings time!) Plus, got my BQ for 2016. :)

[salsabike]

AWESOME. I knew that wind was going to be there and hoped that you all were able to manage it. I've been in Central Park as runners came through and it was amazing-- warm and friendly and exciting. And wow on the BQ!

[Catrin]

Thanks! I had a great time! The crowd energy was incredible, and there were a LOT of international runners which made it very cool. I even nailed my clothing, which I was stressing about since I'd never run in that kind of wind before. It was totally worth getting up at 3:30 am. (but thank goodness for daylight savings time!) Plus, got my BQ for 2016. :)

Congratulations Oakleaf, sounds great! I am glad you were able to do this AND get your BQ :)

Indianapolis had the Monumental Marathon on Saturday. It is a long tradition here for the first Sat in November and is a Boston qualifier. One expects unpredictable weather on Nov 1 in central Indiana, but NOT temps 20 degrees below normal and snow :eek: It was hard enough for me to get out from under the blankets and head for my usual Sat AM KB competition training session which is inside, can't imagine what that must have been like, especially the waiting around before things got started. Thinking of them while I was completing a full competition length set with my comp weight made what I was doing seem much easier!

[Jolt]

Thanks! I had a great time! The crowd energy was incredible, and there were a LOT of international runners which made it very cool. I even nailed my clothing, which I was stressing about since I'd never run in that kind of wind before. It was totally worth getting up at 3:30 am. (but thank goodness for daylight savings time!) Plus, got my BQ for 2016. :)

Nice! Congratulations on the BQ and a great run.

[Crankin]

Congrats, Oakleaf. At least running in the cold is easier than running in the heat!

[OakLeaf]

Yeah, it's not the running in the cold, it's the waiting around beforehand. Monumental I think is small enough that the runners don't have a hugely long wait? And NYC wasn't that cold, but the wind was piercing. For the four and a half hour wait before my start, besides what I ran in, I had two throwaway fleece tops (one hooded), a Tyvek coverall, a reflective mylar poncho, and eight chemical hand warmers, and I was chilly but pretty much okay since I snagged a spot that was mostly sheltered. But there were a lot of people who were shivering for hours.

[ny biker]

Yeah, it's not the running in the cold, it's the waiting around beforehand. Monumental I think is small enough that the runners don't have a hugely long wait? And NYC wasn't that cold, but the wind was piercing. For the four and a half hour wait before my start, besides what I ran in, I had two throwaway fleece tops (one hooded), a Tyvek coverall, a reflective mylar poncho, and eight chemical hand warmers, and I was chilly but pretty much okay since I snagged a spot that was mostly sheltered. But there were a lot of people who were shivering for hours.

Congrats on the race!! I drove over the Verrazano at 9:30 last night and the wind was knocking my car around. I can only imagine what it was like to run over it early in the morning when the winds were higher, especially since I was literally shivering the night before when I left my cousin's wedding, and I was wearing a knee-length wool coat then.

[OakLeaf]

Congrats on the race!! I drove over the Verrazano at 9:30 last night and the wind was knocking my car around. I can only imagine what it was like to run over it early in the morning when the winds were higher.

It literally nearly knocked me over a couple of times. Blew the foot in the air, into the other leg, so I came close to tripping myself!

It kind of ticked me off that people were shedding clothes on the bridge though. Obviously anything dropped there went right into the water. :mad:

[katluvr]

Awesome Oak!
Yes, the waiting around in the cold does me in! Glad you managed and awesome about your BQ!