Kitty was just trying to put the hairball in a discreet place. :D
Morning workouts always make me feel better about my day. Good job getting it done. :)
Veronica
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Kitty was just trying to put the hairball in a discreet place. :D
Morning workouts always make me feel better about my day. Good job getting it done. :)
Veronica
Going to attempt first snow shoe run of the season this afternoon. I'm expecting lots of pain, the collapsing of lungs, tripping over myself and getting lost. Speaking of which, I better make sure my Garmin is fully charged . . .
I never did post about my weekend trio of races. I wrote a nice race report in my head, but never put it down in words. Did finish my 5k in under 30 minutes (29:55)...happy with that but just think if I really did speed work and train consistently I could maybe run that fast for longer distances. The 5k was followed by a 10k. I was running just to run. By mile 2.5 my ITB was acting up...felt like my knee would collapse. Did ok w/ it until mile 4, then if I ran anything faster than an 11 min mile pace it would feel like my leg would buckle. Next day was a long 1/2 marathon. I signed up last minute to help my SO get thru it. She fell off running & training and yet still was going to do the half. Actually first 4 miles or so was ok. Mile 6 she thought she was one, we pasted our hotel mile 8, we contemplated that there was DFL (which at that time we were not) but she felt DNF was better than DNS...but then there is pride or wearing the shirt and getting a medal...so she kept on and I kept her going. The course was closing at 3 hours and we were a few minutes past that. The people behind us must of quit so we were last. It was like the vultures are following you...the fire rescue care, the truck picking up cones. She got emotional about being last so I walked and let her finish in front. Not sure if that helped or not! I really hated the "vulture" following us feeling!!
Now for my poor training/running: I have not posted many runs because I have not been running (or doing much of anything except this past race weekend). So today I FINALLY got on our brand new treadmill (we have had it a week!) to do a speed workout I used to do. I managed to do only 3 speed intervals at paces slower than my 5k pace! Why is the treadmill so much harder?! I think I should do this work out everyday until I can complete it (the full workout ) and without stopping! I ended up with only 3 miles and with the walk breaks to catch my breath a 12 min mile pace!! :(
K
Hang in there Kat. Hope your ITB feels better. Sometimes it's hard and you feel like cr@p and you feel like you ought to be faster ... those are the times to be proud of yourself that you kept going. Three races in a weekend is epic!
I wouldn't count on a treadmill being all that accurate. Could be the pace indicator is just off. Could be the different stride you have to use on a treadmill feels weird and hard to you and uses different muscles - if that's the case it'll get easier once you adjust.
Me, I did Yasso 800s for the first time today. I was even a little bit excited about trying a new workout. My target pace for the repeats was 7:50 (for a 3:55 marathon goal :eek:), but I was kind of having trouble finding the pace, figured it was better to do them a little faster than a little slower, and wound up with all of them right around @7:40, give or take a few seconds.
I did 8 repeats. By the last one my legs felt pretty leaden, but I kept the pace up. It's possible I could've kept going for another one or two, but I didn't want to totally use myself up the first time I tried the workout, especially since I'm supposed to ride with the club tomorrow.
Good run. :)
Great workout Oak!
K
On Wednesday morning, I had a great run. Felt really relaxed and in a rhythm. I ended up going 4.2 miles, wanted to go longer but alas, not possible since I was at work.
It was 42 degrees with a strong, cold wind. Luckily, most of my route was protected from the worst of the gusts (woods).
Since they are predicting potential slippery conditions on Sunday when I usually do my long run, I might do a five-miler today. I don't want to have to do a long run on the treadmill......
Why oh why is it so difficult to dress just right for the cold? Keep thinking I should have this figured out by now. It was about 27F, wind chill in the upper teens, this morning. My legs and arms were just right, torso a bit warm, and head and hands way too warm with hat and mittens, way too cold without. And my toes were freezing. So it goes... But I got a pleasant surprise when I looked at the final numbers for the run-- just under 6 miles, at a 8:52/mile pace :D. It's been a while since I went that fast on an easy run!
Kat, that's a heck of a lot of racing. Like a month's worth, in just a weekend! talk about persistence...
I assume that you are wearing wool socks, but here is a little secret (that isn't so secret, really): duct tape over the meshy part of your shoes. Blocks the wind.Quote:
Originally Posted by skhill
FWIW, I can't stand to wear a winter-type hat if it is warmer than about 25 w/o windchill, so I wear a ballcap-style running hat and an earband. That way I can take the earband off if I get too warm. The hat isn't totally ventilated, so it provides just enough heat retention.
I will have my first test-of-mettle for the year this afternoon: a long run in the rain. Yes, rain. Not snow. Rain and mud make me cranky. This is just so wrong for January in northern Utah. :mad:
Did my longest run in the new year today -- just 4 miles, but I was happy. I caught a bad cold around new year's and have been very slow coming back (between coughing and asthma). It felt good to finally get back up to 4 miles.
4 easy miles - some walking uphill to keep the HR reasonable. So just thinking about building distance at this point. Not worried about speed or even running the whole thing - just form when I can and keeping the legs moving.
DH and I are away for the weekend to deal with family issues, so this was as good as I could get as I'll be in the car or with family the rest of the weekend, so my planned long run was kaput.
Ran Friday morning on the trail at work, it was about 35 degrees with a brisk wind. Felt great, physically and mentally, probably because I had to circle swim with a super pokey person during my morning swim. As a consequence, I had extra energy.
Outdoor running this weekend is a big ????? Right now, there is a coating of snow on the ground and freezing rain in the forecast. I'm hoping it warms up enough on Sunday to melt whatever accumulates on the pavement! I'm not digging the idea of my first treadmill run of the year.
Figured out why my right toes have been so very very cold-- I've worn a hole clear through on the first toe in my beloved VFFs. I was hoping to get them to 1500+ miles, but that might not happen. Thinking of trying duct tape, but that's not going to wear well on the sole... Might be time to go shopping!
The weather outside was marginal, cold light rain, so I went to the treadmill. I did 8 miles, in about 1:15. The weird thing was that the whole time, I was the only woman in the room. It was just me and a bunch of old men...
My goodness, skhill! Which model VFFs do you wear running?
Icy outside this morning, so I did my first treadmill run in more than 10 years! Felt good, actually, which surprised me, and I was able to keep my pace in check. I was so happy to get in my Sunday 5 miler.
It was nice to wear shorts and a tank, rather than layering up. I worked up an incredible sweat!
Sigh....I ran for the first time (for an appreciable amount of time that is) since before Christmas. While I wasn't writhing in agony during or after, it's clear that my hamstring injury hasn't gotten much better, despite rest and PT. I see my PT on Wednesday, but I'm not sure he's going to have much in the way of further insight. He's tested and retested me multiple times and is convinced we've correctly identified the injury; it's just not responding very well to any of the treatments.
I haven't been on any of my bikes for a while, mostly because the worst of pain is centered around my left sit bone. We have a bike trip planned for late April--the White Rim Trail in Canyonlands NP. While I need to just try to ride to see how irritated the hamstring gets from it, I'm afraid that if I don't see progress real soon, we're going to have to cancel this trip.
Needless to say, I'm pretty frustrated.
Indy, that just stinks. Kinda sounds like a broken bone would not have you sidelined for as long as the hamstring problem...
Selkie, I've been running in the VFF bikilas-- but only down to temps in the mid-20s, with wool socks. As the one of the stores in town that sells them was having a 10% off everything in-stock this weekend, I now have a new pair! It was back to the treadmill AGAIN this morning, due to thundersorms (in January!!!!). So the new pair now has 4 miles on them.
Yep. I ran into a fellow runner/cyclist whom I know the other day who was sidelined for 18 months with a similar injury. She said it never has fully healed. That bit of information sure didn't make me too happy!Quote:
Originally Posted by skhill
ETA: I really need to read through this thread. I realize that I've only chimed in recently to complain about my hamstring. I haven't followed along otherwise. I apologize for my self-involvement...but regularly reading the running thread was getting me down. I hope you gals understand.
First run the the week on my "stay-cation". I have plenty of paid time off and did not take any time off during the holidays...I prefer a week off in January to get my self "ready for the year". Usually don't get as much done as I plan. This year my goals for the week are simple:
Run each day
Do something (little or big) around the house daily (also because I have company coming end of the week)
Do something FUN each day.
Today was 4 miles. Garmin was charging so although I had a watch for time, nothing to look at for pace. It was not a fast run but I felt good and had fun!
K
I like the bikilas but I don't run in them (also like the komandos). ;) Enjoy your new shoes!Quote:
Originally Posted by skhill
After work, I plugged out 4 miles on the treadmill (potential icy conditions/freezing drizzle/rain in the morning put the kabosh on my planned run at work).
Well, this week was supposed to be a pull-back week anyway in preparation for the 5K on Saturday, but for periodization purposes it obviously needs to be a pull-back week. I've been sooooo sore for the last few days, between cycling and yoga and errands on the hybrid. I did 11 on Sunday - about four miles of easy barefoot walking on the beach yesterday - today I'll just do a short run with a few pick-ups.
Indy (if you're reading) - totally fair to stay away from the thread if it's depressing you while you're injured! No need to apologize! Just heal up quick.
Thanks, Oak; I appreciate that. I think I'm going to start following the thread again. I miss hearing about everyone's accomplishments, big and small victories, big and small struggles and whatnot. In that vein, good luck at your 5k!
And Bike Chick, I want to very belatedly congratulate you on your marathon. How amazing!
So, my pain from running on Sunday has been manageable. Not a walk in the park, but manageable. I'm going to try to it again on Wednesday or Thursday and see what happens. If the pain stays at a dull roar, then I'm just going to deal with it. My doc suggested that I could take that approach, but I originally opted to follow my PT's advice to rest instead. I'm just going to take it a run at a time. I'm also going to start using a donut to sit on. My coworker brought in one she used for a tailbone injury for me to try out. The less pressure I put on the tendon, the better. Driving seems to aggravate it the most, likely because of how my car seats are shaped.
This, too, shall pass. Or at least it better. During this down time, I have been working with a trainer on building upper body and core strength. I'm starting to see the return of some muscles, especially in my shoulders and back, that I'm neglected for the last couple of years. I'm no Veronica just yet, but she is my muse.
Cool - what a compliment. As a Latin/Greek major I totally dig being someone's muse. :DQuote:
Originally Posted by indysteel
Just remember genetics also plays a part here. I always feel a little guilty (not quite the right word) but developing my upper body was not hard for me. I work hard at it, but I am inclined to be muscular. I'm just maximizing my assets. :)
I wish running had come as easy. :rolleyes:
Veronica
I don't have bad genetics in this regard either, at least as they relate to my upper body. I did a fair amount of resistance work and a lot of yoga a few years ago and was thrilled when people kept telling me how "cut" my arms looked. Of course, I was also a bit leaner then, so you could see my muscles better. Regardless, I love the physical and mental payoff that you get from weight and core work.Quote:
Originally Posted by Veronica
My legs are a totally different story, however. The only time they looked even vaguely muscular was during my high school track and cross country days. I also weighed 100 pounds then, too. So, yeah; that isn't gonna happen again by a longshot.
I am very much in the peak of my double IM training. I ran 29 miles on saturday. Not going to lie, that's exhausting! But I have to learn to drag myself on and push through it (so I rode a century sunday :p )
I have a marathon this weekend.
I am seriously out here in a new world of training!
You work hard and you know it!!!Quote:
Originally Posted by Veronica
I am always impressed too.
It hit me while running this morning that maybe the reason my speed and stamina are so much better now than during the fall is because I've finally put those 10 lbs back on. And I feel better too.
I'm not superstitious, but... When my run takes me past the house where Jefferson Davis, president of the CSA, lived while a college student, I always go on the other side of the street. But today, I got stuck on the "wrong" side. So I departed from my planned route to go past the church Abraham Lincoln went to when visiting his in-laws, just in case bad karma might be following me. Ended up going about 6 miles, and it's a beautiful day:)
Wow, Kacie. I can't even get my head around that! Good luck at the marathon.Quote:
Originally Posted by kacie tri-ing
Wow, Kacie!
I did vaguely "dream" about an ultra marathon someday...not sure when that will be since I have only done 1 marathon. But a double IM...seriously not in the cards. But I love this thread and TE because it inspires me.
Today I planned to do 10 miles. Since I am enjoying a "stay-cation" I slept in til 7:30. I enjoyed coffee & the Today Show. I knew it would be warm...we are in the 80s, but still decided to go. So I had a very warm & sunny 10 miler. My speed is no where I want or need it to be for the 1/2 in a little over 2 weeks. I think if I can pull it off in 2:20 I'll be doing good. So no PR this year.
I can't believe the weather we are having. I would be lounging by the pool if I did not have company from Wisconsin & Connecticut coming in on Thursday & Friday for the weekend. I am busy cleaning house (blah!) Hope the weather holds for my northern friends, they will love this weather! Nothing like an early & warm spring!
Plan an easy run tomorrow and speed work on the dreadmill on Thursday.
K
How's that new treadmill working out for you? Sounds like it's doing well and you're already putting some serious miles on it! :pQuote:
Originally Posted by Selkie
Kacie. Holy !@#$%@. Seriously. You go!
+1. Simply. cannot. imagine. :eek:Quote:
Originally Posted by OakLeaf
I feel proud when I do four miles.
Thank you, Indy. I hate to hear that you aren't improving and are still suffering. I hope you stick around and keep us posted on your progress. That's what we are here for. We are all pretty good listeners and I think a lot of us have been where you are right now. Hang in there.Quote:
Originally Posted by indysteel
Holy cow, Kacie! I agree with Indy. I find it hard to wrap my head around that. Good luck on the marathon this weekend.
I think I've realized that I just can't run yet. My foot *is* better. That is, until I run. It's fine for cycling, even jumping around in my classes at the gym, and hiking. But, I went snow shoeing and x country skiing last weekend, after I ran a little on Friday. That was bad. My foot hurt, especially when I was herringboning up the climbs on Sunday. It's better now, but I just don't want to jinx it.
I will live vicariously through you guys. Until the spring, at least.
Sorry Crankin, but I remember your saying awhile back that you were taking the winter off of running to let your foot heal, and here you are trying to run again! Bad girl! :D
You are a probably a lot like my DH -- he managed to run two miles this morning with two of the ugliest looking toes you've ever seen -- all purple and swollen. Our Boston Terrier ran into him at full speed a couple of days ago and knocked his foot into a concrete wall. He may have a broken, or at least severely sprained one of the two toes (the other is more of a bad abrasion), but yet he still couldn't stand not running *at all*.
I did 4 miles on the beach this morning. I do have a slight blister on my left pinky toe from a lot of walking on an inland tour we took on Monday, but it only bothers me walking (in the same trail-running shoes), not running, for whatever reason.
Thanks for asking! We still have the very nice "loaner" treadmill---there was a significant delay from the manufacturer on the model we purchased. It's finally being delivered next week.Quote:
Originally Posted by 7rider
Not surprisingly, my form is different on the treadmill. Ended up with a blister on my right forefoot and a very bad bruise on my left hand (I was apparently going faster than the treadmill belt and kept whacking the front bar w/my hand! Bonehead!!). Looks like I was in a bar fight with a hooker! ;)
Was very happy to run outside at work yesterday. A nice 4.2 miler--was warmer than I expected. I would have gone further but my blister pad/protection started coming off.
Are you still putting a lot of miles on your treadmill?
Well, using it regularly, but I don't think I've put on as many miles, in total, as Kacie did last Saturday! :eek::p Amazing.
Since I use it in the a.m., I'm good for about a half hour, and then I've got to shower, eat, and head to work. So my runs on it tend to be short - 2-3 miles (except for that 5-miler with the new Superfeet that nearly crippled me.). But it's getting used pretty regularly.
Yesterday, I rode my bike home in all daylight. Amazing the difference in the past few weeks (and the benefit of arriving at work early, so I could leave a bit early). Soon, I'll be able to add bricks to my bike commute days - ride home, grab the shoes and head out for 2-3, so my morning treadmill runs will become less frequent.
3.3 miles this AM. Whole lower body felt like lead most of the run. It was slow. I am not sure if I am recovered from my 10 miler 2 days ago. I have been busy and on my feet/legs last 2 days doing pre-guest & spring cleaning. Or maybe it was the pizza and wine last night. Or maybe I'm just carrying too many pounds and a bit slow this year! Whatever the reason, I did run. I plan to run each day w/ my guests here as I am sure we will be eating and drinking way too much to be healthy!!
K
5.5 miles this morning. It was the best run I've had in a long time. Yay! It helps that the roads are dry and bare. The last run I did was on sheer ice, probably more appropriate to wear ice skates. And the run before that was in snow and slush--the consistency of brown sugar. Ugh.
7 - That's great! Looks like the weather will continue to be on the mild side, so being outdoors will be nice.
Ran 4.2 miles on the trail at work yesterday morning. Was worried that it was going to rain/drizzle, but luckily, it stayed dry! Temps were in the low 42, which was also nice.
I ran a whooping 1.25 miles this morning.:rolleyes: I missed my Thursday afternoon fun run because of a meeting that ran long. I don't normally run Friday mornings - Friday is usually yoga and nothing else. So, I figured I'd do a fun run this morning.
The thermometer says 52,and I dressed for 52, but the cold northerly breeze didn't make it feel like 52. I wasn't warm after a mile and while I was running well, I was freakin' cold. I've got 2 hills in this mile loop, so I should have been warm.
I trotted on home instead of doing another loop or two. At least it was a reasonably quick mile. :D
Veronica
What an interesting and eventful run. First and foremost, if I had been thinking, I would have worn my shoes with carbide spikes (my beloved Icebugs). But it was early and, no, I was not thinking.
I run from my house to the trailhead, a distance of about 1.2 miles. About halfway to the TH, a very, very cute short-tailed weasel ran across the road in front of me. He had some sort of prey in his mouth. OMG, he was so incredibly cute! All white with a black-tipped tail. My run was off to a good start! :D
But then, I hit the trail. It's beautiful today, but we had rain over the snow yesterday, so the trail surface was intermittently breakable crust and ice skating rink. I was wishing I had my Icebugs on. I thought about turning around and running on the road, but I convinced myself that it just _had_ to get better.
It didn't. And got worse in some places. But I committed to it so I kept going. I saw bobcat tracks, weasel tracks, coyote tracks, raccoon tracks, deer tracks, and elk tracks. I came around a corner and there, in the sun on a tree, was a huge flock of goldfinches. I saw one other crazy runner out and when we passed each other we both giggled. I'm sure we were both thinking the same thing: "My gawd this trail SUCKS today but it is such a pretty morning!" It was slow going but, ultimately, totally worth it.
After about an hour and a half of slipping and sliding, my hamstrings had had enough. I was at a point where I could hit the road for the rest of the run so I did, running up the canyon alongside the creek. I eventually turned around and headed back down. About 1/2 mile from the end of the creek road (which does not have traffic on it except for maintenance vehicles), I see a plow/salt truck coming up the road. I got over to the side to give him plenty of room and gave him a peace sign. As he passed, I got hit with a bunch of salt and rock (he had the salt thrower on). Good thing I had sunglasses on. I could have been mad, but wasn't. It was just too nice of a day.
About 14.5 miles and 2,282' of climbing and some pretty pissed off hamstrings but I can think of worse things :) Happy Friday, everyone.