mileage – Page 12 – The Celiathlete

August 11, 2013

Marathon Training Week #9 – Getting a “Boost”…

This has been a rather intense week when it has come to my running. Granted, it was basically an “easier” week for the weekday runs, but the weekend was calling for a 16 miler. Okay…I’ve done 18 miles already…in intense heat and humidity. And that…well…it sucked. It sucked mightily. So, 16 miles wasn’t daunting at all. Not really. And I have a great group of people to run it with. And I was promised a new route. So…that was exciting.

But…simply put…I was tired. The previous week wore me out, basically thanks to Maroon 5 and their show up in Indianapolis last Saturday night. I missed out on quite a few precious hours of sleep…still hauled myself out of bed and went out for a run on Sunday morning. Because Sunday morning runs are one of my “me” times. I don’t go out with any set pace or path…I just go. And when I’m done…I’m done.

This week was a good one for running, but I think my body is still trying to catch up on rest…and I haven’t had a moment to allow it that luxury. I have, however, enjoyed a few wonderful moments this week…all centered on running. Not my training…not really…but the physical runs. The people I’m with…the things I saw…the experiences this week were what really made everything feel…just right.

And…I can finally pump my fist in the air because I have treated myself to a new pair of running shoes. I tried on a pair of these at one of my fun runs on Monday night back in March (I think)…when Adidas was visiting the store. I had one of the best runs ever on a Monday night…and just fell in love with them. With a gift certificate to Blue Mile and some store credit…I finally decided it was time to treat myself to some shoes I wanted. So, yesterday…I brought home a pair of Adidas Boost running shoes and a new pair of socks made by Injinji…they are toe socks…and should help with any blistering issues. I also bought some Watermelon Nuun…but that’s not as exciting.

So…how do I break in new shoes? On a Saturday 16 miler, of course…in the rain! They really don’t look new anymore. Already. On the first outing. Welcome to the life of a runner! Let’s take a look at the week, shall we?

Sunday, as always, is either an easy run day or another day of rest. I don’t do well with run days, so I usually take this opportunity to rock out a couple of miles. No set path or direction or distance in mind. I just run and go where my feet take me, however long they feel like being out there, and on whatever route they choose. Sunday is “me” time…as I get up early and get out there, trying to beat the heat of the day…the torturous sun…and all that jazz. This Sunday…however…I decided to match my Saturday mileage. My legs were feeling good, even after going 13 miles on Saturday with Laura. So, when I headed out…I only had one goal…and that was to hit some hills. I ended up running to the local campus and running the parking lots, which are hilly in their own right. Then…I hit the hills around town…through the community park, and out towards the main drag. I actually clocked a half marathon (exactly 13.1 miles) when I wound up back at my apartment complex and paused my Garmin. And it was in 1:44:51…which means I was almost matching the pace of my best half marathon. I was just 4 minutes off. So, I was really having a fantastic morning run. I didn’t feel tired after it either. Just went inside, hopped in a nice cool shower, then got my roommate up because I was craving gluten-free pancakes. So, we went out to North End Café where I enjoyed one gluten-free pancake with a side of fruit. It was just what I needed and wanted. Shopping followed…and then a sweet treat. That’s how I roll on Sunday!

Monday Fun Run Group with fresh watermelon after the run. Yes...I had already devoured mine! — Monday Fun Run Group with fresh watermelon after the run. Yes…I had already devoured mine!

Monday…the runs in the dark return with a vengeance. Earlier than my weekend morning wake-up calls. Sometimes it just seems hard to get out of bed. But not this Monday. Not really. My training plan was scaling down in the week as far as my mileage, allowing me to physically get prepared for my longer run on Saturday, I believe. The weather that morning was ideal. Just beautiful. Not humid. A slight breeze. I was loving it. The training plan called for 4 miles…so I didn’t bother to pack something for fuel…I wouldn’t be out long enough to require it or to even necessitate practicing my fueling technique. Then…I ended up going 5 miles because it just felt good. I did all of this with fantastic negative splits. By now you all know that Monday is also the weekly Daily Double…so that evening after work and a quick bite at home, I headed over to Louisville to hit the road with my fun run group. We hadn’t run the scenic loop in Cherokee Park for awhile, so we chose to do that…but backwards. There are parts of running the loop that I love to do backwards…but the worst part is right at the end…going up toward Hogan’s Fountain…on this windy, gradual-yet-still-steep climb. I was with the group at the beginning, but somehow ended up ahead…and remained there for the rest of the run. In fact, I got back to the store long before others. I hate when that happens…because I do love running with my group…but it was how it worked. Natalie, one of the runners I run with often on Monday, supplied the group with fresh watermelon. And it was DELICIOUS. Watermelon is something I crave a lot these days after I run. So this…was fantastic to return to the store and indulge in.

Tuesday is not a running day, but it still brings an early morning. Tuesday is my cross training day. And my cross training all takes place at the gym. And in order to fit in a gym workout without making excuses not to go…I go early. Really early. Much to Cathy’s chagrin. She is not a morning person, but she does rise and shine at least twice a week to hit up the gym. Tuesday we leave the apartment by 6:15 at the latest and get to the gym by 6:30 a.m. This Tuesday’s cross training routine was done on two different machines. The first one is the Arc Trainer, which is sort of an advanced and more difficult version of an elliptical machine. I set it for Program 3 – Hill Intervals – Level 5 and then hit it. I managed 2.68 miles in 45 minutes with the changing resistance, incline, and the intervals that it threw at me. I was feeling awesome about that. And then, the second machine was a 10 minute workout on the stationary bike. I HATE the stationary bike. I think for reasons I hate the treadmill. I just don’t like putting so much effort forward and not be going anywhere. UGH! So, these 10 minutes always feel like torture. I change the resistance after every minute and just gave it whatever I had left in the tank. And in 10 minutes, I did manage 3.91 miles. Then it was downstairs to get some strength training in. Later that night…20 minutes of yoga to stretch everything out. I needed it because…

Wednesday morning rolled around. And by now, we all know that Wednesday means it’s pacing/speed work day. This week it was asking me for 6 miles with negative splits. I wasn’t sure this was actually going to happen. I told my roommate this the night before, as I looked at the weather and saw how steamy and humid it was going to be that morning. Well, The Weather Channel wasn’t lying. That morning was heavy, wet air…and I felt like I was just running in MUCK. Honestly. It just made the act of running feel that much more difficult. Somehow, and I still am not sure how, I managed to nail the negative splits that were requested in the training plan. I still don’t know how I managed…but I did. That evening, after work, it was 20 minutes of circuit training, which really kicked my ass.

Thursday morning it was back to running easy. And I was glad for that. I was feeling “the shred” of the circuit training the day before. And it was still humid as MUCK out on Thursday morning. It might even have been muckier than it was on Wednesday morning. In fact, I can honestly say I do believe it really was. This morning called for an easy 5 miles, similar to that on Monday. So, I ran my usual path…then decided…why not throw in a couple of hills. So, I altered my route and went out on the one I used to run before strange men kept jumping out at me and scaring me. I had my mace with me…so I felt I could manage this. It meant no gorgeous negative splits…but the change was what I needed, honestly. Thursday also took me back to the gym, where I did 9.16 miles on the elliptical in 45 minutes and then kicked out 3.69 miles on the Cardio Wave machine. I love doing this machine because it manages to work my legs from side-to-side instead of the usual front-to-back motion. A few strength machines followed. Then, after work…it was back to the circuit training for the second day that week. Let me tell you…I almost talked myself out of doing it. I told my roommate we could either do it that night…or Friday. She said she didn’t care…so I finally figured that if we didn’t do it Thursday, we wouldn’t hit that second day of it for the week…because Friday we are always busy. So, I said we’d just do it…and we did. It was painful…but we did it. And I’m proud of us for doing so.

My Injinji socks and my Adidas Boost running shoes...treats to myself! — My Injinji socks and my Adidas Boost running shoes…treats to myself!

It was a good call because along came Friday. Friday is the evil but blessed rest day. The one day that I literally am not to do anything. I do my best to respect this day and keep it holy. I mean…it’s once a week, yes? Yes. The only thing is I do allot myself permission to go for an early morning walk. Just a brisk little walk to take the edge off. Friday usually means a lot of sitting at the office, trying to get accounts closed and the like…so this walk is good for me. And I enjoy it. Honestly. I did 3.02 miles on Friday morning in 34:23, which is actually really, really brisk. But I have short legs and honestly walk fast. It’s just how I am. The brilliant thing about this Friday was…after coming home and eating a delicious gluten-free pizza for dinner…I went over to my running store…and I treated myself to those shoes I was telling you about at the beginning. The Adidas Boost. There was just something about these shoes that I loved…after running in them for 3 miles back in March. I coveted them from afar…wanting them so badly, but not having the money for the $150 price tag they carried. But with a gift certificate, some store credit…and really wanting them…Friday…I finally did it. I just broke down and bought a pair. And they are bright. And with them…I got a pair of Injinji toe socks…because I was mentioning how sometimes I can get blisters and I am totally prone to black toenails. I was told the Injinji socks could certainly help with that. I figured if I was going to break in new shoes on Saturday, I might as well give new socks a try too. Purchased. Done deal. The Adidas Boost shoes were now mine. So..what is so great about the Boosts? It’s all in the design. Adidas’ Web site says that we, as runners, put a lot of energy into our runs, and the Adidas Energy Boost shoes gives some of it back because they are designed with an energy-return boost midsole, which supposedly keeps every step charged with light, fast, energy. Adidas Boost shoes are lightweight (8.5 pounds) and bring flexible upper support to the shoes. Simply put…they feel great and running in them feels great. And now…they were mine. And I couldn’t wait to take them out for a spin. A very, very long spin of 16 miles…Saturday morning.

Saturday means one thing…LONG RUN! I love my long run days. I really do. Getting to run with people. Doing the long slow distance (LSD). Talking…about everything, anything, and just enjoying the company for what can otherwise be a very lonely time out on the roads. I also love these runs because each time I go out with any member of the group who is needing or wanting to do the mileage I am doing…I get shown a new running route. And today…was a beautiful one. 16 challenging miles…but on a route I had never taken before…but had heard stories about. This is what the running group has dubbed the “Better Homes and Gardens” route. And I now understand why. We met up at 6:30 a.m. and Harry was going to take us on the route. There were five of us to start, although Laura was on a step-down week, so she was only doing 10 miles. She figured she’d run out 5 with us, then turn around and come back. We left the store and started into Cherokee Park. Laura and I kept the lead all the way through the park, taking the route Harry had planned toward Seneca Park, where we would wait for the other three (Harry, Carrie, and Linda). We didn’t have to wait long…and we took the opportunity to refill water bottles and get ready for the next 3/4 of the 16 miles we wanted to log. Laura came out to just over 5 miles with us before turning around to head back. From there…the four of us set out for the remainder of the “Better Homes and Gardens” run. First of all…gorgeous neighborhoods!! STUNNING!! And…I even got to see deer!! A mother deer and two fawns. A fourth one was lurking further back. Harry and I were leading…and Linda and Carrie were behind us for most of this adventure. Harry and I would pause at places to allow them to catch up and we’d discuss the next leg of the run…so that we would know where to meet and so on. As Harry and I rounded a corner, we spotted another deer. I had to get a picture!! It was awesome!! Harry snapped a picture on his phone too. And then we continued on, pausing when we hit River Road to wait on the rest of our crew. We never leave runners behind. When the caught up, we ran through a park and then back out onto the road. To make sure we hit mileage, Harry took us up to the Water Tower. It was a beautiful detour. And then we hit the road to head back toward our final destination. Not wanting to hit the hill on Zorn Avenue, we went a different way to The Three Bears. Now, I have heard many runners in the group talk about The Three Bears…but I was finally going to see them for myself. And as Harry and I were first to arrive, he even snapped a picture of me with them. I had to dance with them. Just up the hill was an ivy-covered bunny…so we walked up there while we waited for our running partners…and I got a picture with that as well. From there…it was a short stint on a trail…then back onto the roads and a few turns more before we arrived back at the store. Of course…with about 5 miles left to go, the rain decided it didn’t want to hold off any longer…and so…it started to fall. And it felt great. I mean, I really needed it. The humidity was awful in the morning…so this was nature’s very own air conditioning. I welcomed it. I didn’t have a hat with me though, so I was doing all I could to not get rain in my eyes. It lightened up soon after…and with another opportunity to show me something I normally don’t see…Harry took me up to the reservoir where all of Louisville’s water goes through before heading out into the city. It was AWESOME! From there, he and I made the final dash toward the coffee house where all the other runners who left earlier or even later were meeting and enjoying the Gluten-Free Almond Peach Muffins I baked on Friday night for them. The rain was falling again, but we waited for Linda and Carrie to make it back. The actual run that morning was 17.02 miles…so…once again I went the extra mile. But it was a fun, beautiful run. And I loved the company and the sights I was able to see.

Scenes from my Saturday morning 17 mile long run

I am already gearing up for next Saturday, which is ushering in what will be my longest run to date. I am totally looking forward to that challenge. Now…I’m going to hit up the foam roller because my calf muscles are definitely reminding me that I road tested new shoes for 16 miles today. Biofreeze might be my friend tonight as well. No matter…I had a hell of a great run today and I’m still smiling from the high I felt while out there on the road…doing what I love…with people who share that same passion for running. Sore calf muscles and all!! Also…I need to carry more bottles with me. My two 6 ounce bottles are definitely not cutting it in the humid, hot weather. Good thing we had water fountains along the way. But my Nuun was gone before I was even halfway through the run today. Electrolytes are my friend as I tend to sweat out salt…so…this will be remedied. Oh yes…yes it will.

It just means I might need to invest in a little more retail therapy…

July 21, 2013

Marathon Training Week #6 – It’s not the heat, it’s the humidity…

So…here is the vicious cycle. I dislike cold weather runs. So, during the winter all I do is talk about how I can’t wait for it to get warm again. Then, in my area, we usually have about three days of spring and then the dog days of summer set in. Living in the Ohio River Valley makes for some rather intense humidity. And, wow, has Mother Nature ever been throwing the wet towel on me for every run this past week.

But…there are so many things I have learned in the past two years about running in the heat. First of all, I do understand that when there are heat advisories…it is best not to push it. Either take it inside or slow it down. That’s the next thing…when running in hell-like conditions…slow your pace. Just do it. There comes a point where your body will tell you it has had enough…and it won’t be pretty. Slow it down, make it through the run.

HYDRATE HYDRATE HYDRATE!!

I can’t emphasize that enough. I’ve been doing a lot of practice with hydrating while out on the run. Both with water and, yes, with Gatorade. The Gatorade came as a suggestion from my sports nutritionist, whom I am meeting up with again today. Why? Carbs, sugar, and electrolytes. I tend to sweat salt. When I get done with a run on a hot, hot day…I’m caked with white. This means dehydration is a huge risk. So, I hydrate often and rotate between water and Gatorade.

This coming week, I am praying for a break in this stifling humidity. There is nothing worse than feeling like you’re breathing through a wet towel on each and every run. That being said…let’s take a look at this week’s training and see what I have learned…

Sunday is normally my easy run or rest day. BUT…not this Sunday. This Sunday was The Boilermaker 15K in Utica, New York. Race day! My rest day last week fell on Saturday, as I rearranged the training schedule to fit this race in. And trust me…this one was brutal. For one thing, it wasn’t supposed to be as hot as it was that morning. I woke up and it was already in the high 70s with a very high humidity. This meant I went running in my company running skirt and a bra top. The less fabric on me…the better. Along with the heat and humidity…was hills. This course was hilly, especially in the first half of the race. This turned out to be a tough race. I brought Gatorade and water for the route and there were over 20 aid stations on the 9.3 mile course. I finished with a new 15K PR…surprisingly, as by Mile 7, I realized I should have been fueling better when the heat started to get me…so I took a GU and kept on trekking. This was hard. And afterwards, as my schedule had me set for 10 miles for my long run, I did a slow, easy shake-out run in an alley for the remaining mileage that day. Then, I had to shower, get in a car, and not move for a very long time…which my legs and body didn’t appreciate. I was so sore by the time I got back into Columbus, Ohio early Monday morning. And with fatigue settling in, I didn’t bother to foam roll either. Live and learn. More stretch breaks…even if it means more time on the road.

Monday morning I was up just a little past 6:30 a.m., despite my late night/early morning return to Columbus, Ohio. My training plan still had me on schedule for a 6 mile easy run, and despite very sore legs, I was determined to get it done. This meant looping Jenn’s neighborhood, which is the route I usually do when I’m in town visiting her. That particular morning…I felt defeated on the run. My legs were screaming at me from sitting so long in the car after racing. The humidity was draining. I found myself stopping every half mile to catch my breath, hydrate, and at mile 3, fuel. It was just hard that morning to even get going and I just felt like crying every time my legs told me to stop. But, I got through it. And then, after grabbing breakfast…had to climb back in the car for the drive back to Louisville. Upon arriving back at home, I had to change and get ready to get back into the car and head out to my Monday fun run. I thought about skipping it, but Cathy told me it would be good to go, especially after being forced to sit in a car that long again. That was part of the problem…my legs were hurting. But I went. And, due to the high humidity and heat, it was decided that we were going to run trails. Now, I have never run trails before…and the very thought of doing so while I’m in training for a marathon scared the daylights out of me. But, Cathy encouraged me to just do it and I was told we would go easy. Natalie, who I run with often, said that if I felt uncomfortable on the trails, we could hop off in Cherokee Park and simply run the loop. Here’s to good friends looking out for me. I actually did okay and rocked out just under 3 miles of trail running. Trails keep the pace slower, which was good in that heat. And the tree cover meant no hot sun beating down…and there was actually a breeze on the trails. I’m glad I was convinced to go along.

Tuesday is the usual cross training day. This week I was scheduled for 40-50 minutes of cross training. That’s rather normal on Tuesdays now. So, I got on the Arc Trainer for 45 minutes, using the cardio setting on Level 5, and managed 2.38 with various intervals, resistance, and inclines. It felt good and I was quite happy with how I felt on there. I was trying to be very cautious with my legs, which were still not happy with me from the previous two days of sitting in the car. I then got on the stationary bike for 10 minutes and managed a whopping 3.91 miles. I guess I was trying to prove to my legs that I was boss and they would just need to shake it off and feel better. I hit up a few strength machines before calling it a day. That night…yoga to stretch everything out.

Wednesday is my speed work or pacing day and this week called for a 7 mile Tempo run. I used the first mile to warm up and then began to turn up the speed to just under my 10K pace. It was another intensely humid day…the worst one we had all summer. And it was 4 a.m. So, I figured I would do the best tempo run I could manage. It was a little slower than my last 7 mile tempo run from the week before, but you adjust to the conditions. No sense doing damage to myself by pushing too hard in weather that I shouldn’t be pushing through. I kept the speed build gradual and really pushed for a strong finish. This tempo run took a lot to get through, but I did manage, and that was the important part. The key was hydration and fueling. It gave me a strong finish and I felt good at the end of it. Then, that evening while dinner baked in the oven…circuit training. Working on building up some muscle.

Thursday called for 5 easy miles. It was another hot, humid, sticky, and gross morning. I really kept the pace easy because it just felt like I had a wet towel draped over me. It was hard to breathe and really hard to convince my legs to keep going. They were starting to feel better from the days of sitting in the car and more sitting at the office (I wasn’t taking lunches because I was making up time for being off on Monday). Despite all of that working against me, I managed beautiful negative splits that morning. And when I saw that…I felt so much better about that run. I stretched out again that evening with about 20 minutes of yoga.

Friday brought about the dreaded day of rest. I have such a hard time with the rest day. But I did vow to respect it and keep it holy each week. Normally I go for a walk on lunch, but with the time I was making up at the office, I decided to get up at my normal run time and get my walk in early. Good thing too, as things went crazy at the office with one of my accounts. Anyway, I managed 2.4 miles in 30 minutes, which got me out and moving without tiring out my legs. Good thing too…because Saturday was shaping up…

Saturday is long run training day. Run long at an easy pace. I was scheduled for 14 miles, but my training partner in crime was scheduled for 18. I decided I could boost my run up for 4 miles. After all, only a couple of weeks ago, I managed 15.5…and this was only 2.5 miles more. I woke up early, got dressed for the stifling humidity and 80 degree morning that awaited. I drank water. I ate some cereal. Then after applying a liberal amount of sunscreen, I got in the car and headed into Louisville to meet up with Matthew at 6:30 a.m. I downed a banana on the way, which would give it time to settle. I felt good as I stretched. And when he arrived, we headed out for 18 miles. Originally we had hoped to do this at an 8:30 pace…but the weather conditions made this virtually impossible. We took a few walk breaks to cool down, we stopped for water. It was hot. And the heat and humidity was definitely taking its toll. We made good friends with the manager of Denny’s, who let us cool off in their lobby and gave us free ice water. YAY! Then…we had the scary spill. Matthew’s leg cramped up while we were in our last 3 miles. His foot hit the sidewalk and he took a tumble. He fell into me, but I stayed upright. He hit the ground hard though…and I was so worried about him. It just looked bad. He said he was fine…and a lot of drivers and a biker all checked in on him. He dusted himself up, all scraped and battered…and we pressed on…slow and steady. But we managed to get our 18 miles in. It was slower than we would have liked, but given the weather conditions, we ran it smart. And that was the important thing. Matthew’s okay, by the way. And we’ve already got next week’s training run in the works.

This past week brought about some of the hottest conditions in this area this year. The humidity has been killer, bringing about air quality warnings. I get out early to run, and even that was hard on most days this past week. I’m hoping the humidity breaks soon because this sort of weather is so hard to work through. And it does affect you, as a runner, mentally. Runners are very number-focused…and on these dog days of summer, you have to worry more about your well-being, your body, making sure you are hydrated and fueled…and focus less on pace and speed. You still get in your training…it just may not be done as soon as you hoped or wanted.

But…even these hot and humid runs serve as good training and good lessons as far as how weather can affect you. These fall marathons could have these conditions…or they could be cooler…rained on…or just perfect. You just don’t know. Adjusting training to keep yourself safe and healthy is best. Safety first…always!

July 12, 2013

Marathon Training Week #5 – Where I learn the value of sleep…

Another week done. I know…I know…it’s only Friday, but I’m heading out of town this week for a race on Sunday in Upstate, New York. And that means that today ended my week of training as tomorrow, the day of the heaviest travel, I am using as my rest day. In the end, it all balances out. Really. I promise.

With that in mind, I had to approach this week keeping in mind that I would have very tired legs by the end of it. What I didn’t count on was also having new shoes. Yep. Just bought a new pair of kicks. Still not sure how I feel about them…they feel lighter than the Nike’s I was previously in…but…it’s too soon to tell. Of course, this meant my Friday run was not only being done on tired legs…but fresh shoes. So, I did my best to keep it easy. No sense injuring myself before a race…let alone during the middle of my training, right? Right!

So…this week I learned the valuable lesson of sleep. And how necessary it is. Last week with the concert during the week and then the convention over the weekend, I got less sleep than I normally do. And I already get the very minimal. Not because I choose to be that way…but I’ve never required eight full hours of sleep. I function best on 5 hours. But…I wasn’t getting that the week before. And this current week has been just as full with activities and getting things ready for the trip to New York. So…sleep has been rather scarce. I’ve been up later than usual…then getting up at normal time to hit the roads and get my training runs in. I’m really feeling the effects. There are times I’m finding it hard to stay focused on things or maybe even nodding off on the couch. So…after this trip, there is a break in the schedule and things come back on an even keel…so sleep will be a priority. I bet my running will improve too.

I’m still feeling the sting of hurtful things said by people to me about how I look. But…whatever. I’m going to brush it off and know that I am happy and healthy and I don’t need them to drag me down and make me feel ugly. Rise above it, right? Right.

So…with that in mind…here’s how this weeks marathon training went…

Sunday is my easy run or rest day. I was still at the convention, so I went and hit the treadmill at the fitness center of the hotel I where I was staying. I rocked out some intervals, doing one mile at an easy warm-up pace, then rocking out 7 x 800 meters with 6 x 400 meters recovery in between each one. Then, I polished it off with a 1 mile cool down at an easy pace. It was just the start I needed to the day. The gluten-free veggie burger with fries at Cheeseburger in Paradise for lunch was a nice bonus for the day.

Monday morning came way too quickly…and had me back to running in the dark. The 4-H Fairgrounds are close to my apartment and Monday was marking the start of the fair. With that in mind, I decided to stick close to home this week, just to be safe. Safety is always first. I was scheduled for an easy 6 mile run, and that’s what I did. It felt good, despite the 92% humidity that morning. I survived. I think I just needed to get out there and run it all out. I did just that. And, of cousre, Monday marks my Fun Run night, so the Monday Daily Double continued in full swing. I once again went running with Natalie and Harry, up near Cave Hill Cemetery. We didn’t turn this time, we ran around a statue and continued on. And Natalie, as we neared the end, pushed me to have a good finishing kick. She promised to work with me on that finishing kick if I could help her down the road with marathon training. That seems like a fair deal. And she made me work for it. I kicked it and we finished a great 3 mile run. It was hot and humid out and we walked a little. Keep in mind, this lady is running in a cast. She’s hardcore! It was another run that I needed today,with two of my favorite people! I was so tired though…and it was starting to show. Went home, showered, and had to finish getting things ready for work the following day. Later than usual night. Ugh.

Tuesday is the usual cross training day. This week I was scheduled for 40-50 minutes of cross training. No problem. I hit up the gym and did 45 minutes on the Arc Trainer on the Pike’s Peak setting once again, keeping it with the Level 5 setting as well. It’s comfortable, yet challenging, and that was what I wanted. I didn’t want to push too hard due to The Boilermaker this weekend, but I needed some hill work somehow. And this was how I was going to accomplish it. After 45 minutes, I managed 2.38 miles of hills. It was tough…but I pushed on through. Then I moved onto the Cardio Wave machine, which is similar to an elliptical, but your feet move from side-to-side instead of front and back, changing it up a little on the legs. I got in 3.9 miles on there. Felt happy with both of those performances. I capped off my gym day with some strength training. Then headed to work.

Wednesday is my speed work or pacing day and this week called for a 7 mile Tempo run. I used the first mile to warm up and then began to turn up the speed to just under my 10K pace. It was a gradual thing because it was so humid that day. The rain was supposed to be coming down, but it was pushed back to later in the afternoon. That level of humidity at 4 a.m. is intense. The sun isn’t even up yet, and I felt so drained with each mile I pushed through. I did get the Tempo run accomplished with success, I just turned down the speed to train smart. And I hydrated, hydrated, hydrated!

Thursday called for 6 easy miles. So, out I went to get that done. With the rain that had come through, I had hoped that the humidity broke, but sadly…it hadn’t. The teperature was 77 degrees that morning with 93% humidity and a high dew point as well. So, I struggled through these six miles, taking them easy because I didn’t want to do damage to myself. Humidity sucks and it can really just drain every bit of energy out of you. I felt like I was breathing through a wet towel for much of this run. But I got through it, and went inside to have breakfast and head to the gym. I rocked out 9.2 miles on the elliptical in 49 minutes, which made me feel good about life. So did the cool gym environment and the fan that was blowing toward me. Ahhh…relief. Then I hit the rowing machine to get every muscle in my body working. I managed 1.19 miles in 10 minutes. Some strength training followed. Then, on this particular Thursday, I was registered to run in the third BlueMile Brew Mile. This was so much fun, but my legs were just…tired. So tired. I went ahead and tried on the Nike Free shoes that they had for runners to test out at the run. I hated them. I want to move toward minimalist shoes…but those were definitely not for me. The mile went well. It had slight hills and we rounded a sapling at the halfway point, which took some of the momentum away, but I finished in 7:12. My slowest Brew Mile to date. Much water followed. And hanging out with Harry and Laura from my running group. It was a good time. After that, I went to BlueMile and shopped for new shoes. I walked out with a new pair of kicks – Pearl Izumi EM ROAD M 3’s. They are 2 ounces lighter than my Nike’s. I was going to test drive them Friday morning…

Friday…is usually my rest day. But not today. Nope. Not today. With the race being on Sunday and with Saturday being a major travel day, I moved my rest day to Saturday and my normal run I would do on Sunday got bumped to Friday. Sunday I am racing, so I still get a run in. I’m just a bit late on my long run. Anyway, the humidity finally broke and this morning’s run felt amazing. So did the shoes. Although, I can tell they need more breaking in. This will make the Boilermaker 15K interesting…new shoes not quite broken in. Oh boy, oh boy! At least they aren’t giving me blisters. That’s the important part. The lift in humidity made such a difference. I felt so much better during the run. No stopping to cool down. Nope. I think I might have smiled again on this run. It felt great. The shoes are going to take some getting used to…but I think they’ll do good. Next time, I’m getting my Adidas Boosts.

Saturday I should be running 14 miles. But I changed it up with my following week due to the race on Sunday. Next week was supposed to be 10 miles. My 15K is 9.3 miles, so I figure on Sunday I’ll cool off with a short 0.7 mile run after I finish up the race. But Saturday is a lot of time in the car, a race expo, and my rest day this week. We’ll leave it at that.

Another week in the books. Meeting with my sports nutritionist again as the mileage increases and making some adjustments to my regimen. Looking forward to learning more, doing more, and putting the time in to make my first marathon a success. I guess that means getting my sleep pattern back under control as well. But that will have to wait until I get back from Utica.

July 7, 2013

Marathon Training Week #4 – Running away from the pain…

UGH…what a week. What a terrible, draining, awful week. Lack of sleep, a lot of tears, and…my relaxing weekend was anything but relaxing. In fact, it only served to make me more self-conscious of myself. And that’s what sucks. I wanted to be able to escape everything that was weighing down on me this week…and instead I caught it once again. Seems the only place I feel like myself these days is when I’m out running. And that bothers me.

That being said, my first month of Marathon training is in the books. I am so proud of myself and everything I have accomplished these past four weeks. I’m already anticipating the next month…all the miles, the speed work, the pacing, every easy run, and every hard one as well. I’m going to earn these 26.2 miles…while I am running a couple of other races, I’m treating them as training…not as races. My main focus is that big 26.2.

As many of you might have previously read, I had some very hurtful things said to me this past week by someone I considered a good friend. It stung. It hurt. And, wow, did it every set my self-confidence back, especially on body image. I was heading into a weekend at a sci-fi convention, and I normally never worry about this sort of thing, but it was still weighing (no pun intended) heavy on my heart and in my mind. And then…while at the convention I caught crap from people as well. I am SO tired of feeling as though I am the ugliest person because of my size, build, and the fact that I RUN!

YES!! I run. I’m in training…so I am running a lot. But my body is strong, my heart is strong, and my willpower is stronger. I am no stranger to hurtful words about appearance…I got that a lot growing up. Always picked on. But, we’re all adults here. I don’t want to be told that should I ever get cancer I would never survive. WTF?! I run my body…and my body, in return, runs perfectly. I take care of myself. I eat plenty. I exercise to stay healthy. When I’m in a place I am hoping to escape my problems, I don’t need them thrown at me, loudly.

And…for the record…RUNNING WILL NOT KILL ME!

That being said…my marathon training this week started off fantastic, and then…began to suffer. Mostly because I let things get to me. I let words cut me down and scar me. In fact…I lost my spirit this week…the run just felt so hard. It might have been the humidity. It might have been the hurtful words of friends running through my head. Maybe it was both.

In the end, more nice things by true friends were said to lift me up and help me find my center again. And that…is what got me through.

Sunday is my easy run or rest day. As is usual with me, I took my feet out for a spin on the pavement that morning. It was humid, humid, humid out there on Sunday, so I kept it close to home and headed out before the sun was up. I finished up just as it was cresting over some of the hills. It was a relaxing run and while the humidity was a drag, I managed to press on through. And that was after running an accidental 15.5 miles the day before. I was feeling good.

Monday means it’s back to running in the dark. That’s fine, except the added challenge on this particular Monday was that I was out until about 2:00 a.m. at a concert in Cincinnati. The concert was The Goo Goo Dolls with Matchbox Twenty…and it was wonderful…but the 5 easy miles called for in my training was quite hard on weekend-weary and concert-weary legs and total sleep deprivation. I actually went out running an hour later than usual, because I felt sleep was more important…but I was still just tired at the end of it all. Of course, Monday also means it’s Fun Run night, so the Monday Daily Double was still on. I really just wanted to take an easy run, so Harry and Natalie took me on a great run that went by Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville, then through some of the neighborhoods in the Highlands before ending 3 miles later back at the store. We let Natalie set the pace…and, wow, she has a kick there at the end. She promised she’d teach me all about finding that strength at the end of a run. That’s good, because I need it. Monday…was a tiring, but good day. Got in late after running some errands, trying to prep for this weekend.

Tuesday is the usual cross training day. This week I was scheduled for 40-50 minutes of cross training. No problem. I hit up the gym and did 45 minutes on the Arc Trainer on the Pike’s Peak setting. The Boilermaker is this coming weekend in Utica, New York, so hill work is important. I haven’t been taking on hills as often as I should be so I’m feeling a little unprepared for this course. But, as I sad, I’m to be treating these races as training runs, not races, per my sports nutritionist. So…I’ll just do what I can and leave the rest up to how I feel. I set the Arc Trainer for Level 5 so I could have some more resistance and steeper inclines. It was a challenge and one I met. Felt good. The rowing machine was next. UGH. Rowing. It’s a great core workout, working a lot of your upper body, legs, back, arms, and core, but it can be very boring and very, very difficult. I struggled, but managed 1.2 miles on the machine in 10 minutes. Not too shabby. I capped off my gym day with some strength training. Then headed to work.

Wednesday is my speed work or pacing day and this week called for a 7 mile Fartlek run. I used the first mile to warm up and then hit the pavement for some intermittent bursts of speed with some recovery in between each part. I felt good coming in from this run. My legs felt up to the challenge, though they were screaming at me toward the end. I pushed through the morning humidity, and just felt like I had really accomplished a great run. Speed work is something I’m trying to focus more on, but it’s not always easy to do around here. So, this felt like a victory. Then, as I was sitting down on my computer with some water and some time to relax, I got hit up by a friend with some very hurtful words. My legs were taken out from under me. And after I lengthy blog on the subject, I felt I could put it behind me. Wow…was I ever wrong.

Thursday called for 5 easy miles. I really just wanted to get out there and run this day. There was still a lot on my mind. The words that were said to me were still lingering in my brain, and still breaking my heart. I thought I could run it off…but my body had other ideas. I pretty much kept stopping after each mile or less, finding the need to catch my breath or just take a moment. The humidity was awful and stifling. Then, the rain started to come down soon after I came in from my run, because when I left for the gym, it was non-stop rain. And it never really let up that day. My gym workout was awful and disappointing as well. My elliptical effort was not there. I tried to push it…but it wasn’t happening. I felt defeated and deflated. Nothing was going right. The stationary bike was my 10 minute effort that day. And as much as I hate the stationary bike, it was the only part of my workout where I felt I accomplished something amazing. My legs just needed to go fast…and they finally did. I 3.85 miles that morning in 10 minutes. And it made me feel a little better about life. Some strength training followed.

Friday…the rest day. I spent the morning wanting nothing more than to just go out for a short run. Two miles wouldn’t hurt, right? I just felt like I needed to prove to myself I still had my passion for the run. But…it is the day of rest and I vowed to respect and honor that day, so, in the end, I finished packing my suitcase and getting everything ready for the convention I was attending this weekend. I prepared breakfast, went to work, and went for a walk at lunch. I need to just let these rest days do their job. Letting my muscles and body recover from a week of a very draining and hard week just needed to happen. I didn’t want to rest…but I made myself rest.

Saturday was my Long Slow Distance (LSD) pace long run for a scheduled 10 miles, per my marathon training. The trick here was…I was in Indianapolis for a convention. What to do? Well, I knew BlueMile (my favorite running store in Louisville) had two locations in Indianapolis, so I contacted them to see if they had any running groups heading out on Saturday morning for training runs. Both the Broad Ripple and Carmel stores did, but Broad Ripple was closer to where I was staying. So, after a night of being up past midnight, not being able to sleep, and general…BLAH…I hauled myself out of bed at 5:50 a.m. to get ready to head out to Broad Ripple. I got dressed, put on sunscreen, ate half of a granola bar, giving the other half to my roomie. We headed out of the hotel a little later than planned…and discovered that it was raining. Great. Joy. Ah well…I need new shoes anyway. On the way to the store, I ate my banana I had brought with me. We arrived and went into the store. I stretched and soon they were making announcements and telling which races had to run for how long that day. I don’t run by time, I run by miles, so I figured I would head out with them and then just go to the 5 miles, turn around, and head back. I basically did that. There was 95% humidity that morning and a steady misting of rain for most of the run. But we headed out on the beautiful Monan Trail and ran it for 3 miles. At the 3 mile point, there was a water/Gatorade stop and everyone turned around. I did as well, running two miles back down, then turning back around, heading back toward the Kroger water stop to get me to 7 miles. Then, it was three miles back to the store. In the end, I ended up going 10.25 miles that morning…in the humidity and the rain. And I felt good at the end of it. My effort was kept easy due to that humidity, but I was loving my run that morning. New scenery, new people, and just a new experience. Then it was back to the convention and a very late night…er…early morning.

And that was the round-up for my first month of training. In the end, what I’m finding out is…there are so many misconceptions about this sport out there. There are also a lot of people who don’t understand the mechanics of a distance runner. And…they probably never will. I feel rattled and scarred from the hurtful words that were said, and I’m trying so hard not to continue to dwell on it. I have a 15K race coming up this weekend and the best part is…I get to see a lot of friends from high school who I haven’t seen since…well…high school. And that is going to be a fun and amazing time and I really just can’t wait to make it happen.

Here’s hoping I learn to soar again this coming week…

June 30, 2013

Marathon Training Week #3 – Going the extra mile…or 2.5…

It was a rather trying week this past week. I went in for my procedure for my skin cancer and came out of that feeling good, but drained. I was given the okay by the doctor to start running again the day after I went in for it, so that was at least uplifting. I don’t like being down for the count and I wasn’t going to let anything slow me down. Not even a little pain in my head.

That being said, the procedure went well, and despite the weather’s best efforts, I was able to modify my training program to fit in between storms, life, and just an overall hectic schedule. And, my favorite moment of the week was my Saturday run, which I did with my group in Louisville. A good friend of mine, Matthew, ran with me for the entire way. We are both pretty directionally challenged, and we took what we call the “scenic route” on our run to the pedestrian bridge in Louisville. My long run turned into an even longer run…taking me above and beyond the furthest distance I have ever run in my entire 2 year running career. SO proud of myself. It was accidental, but I was still feeling good at the end of it. Just really hungry…but that was easily remedied.

Week three in the books…still going strong.

Sunday is my easy run or rest day. As I knew I was having my skin cancer procedure on Wednesday, the day of my 7 mile run with negative splits, I opted to do this on Sunday, where I didn’t have to add any stress to an already stressful day on Wednesday. It was a very humid morning, despite setting out just as the sun was coming out. I made sure I hydrated and fueled and what happened was I totally nailed my negative splits. Just the confidence boost I needed at the beginning of a draining and tiring week.

Monday, as always, takes me back to running in the wee hours of the morning when it is still dark. Despite the sun not being up at that point, it is always muggy and humid these days. So, I always have my water with me, even on shorter runs. This Monday was six miles easy, which I did. Oddest thing though…when I finished up the two miles I did on the street, a runner wearing no reflective gear came tearing out of the 4-H Fairgrounds and heading up ahead of where I run to turn around and head back. Not sure what to make of it, and being a little bit paranoid about that sort of stuff happening, I unhooked my pepper spray from my fuel belt and held onto it as I made my way up to my turn around point. He had stopped at the sidewalk and I turned around faster than usual. I thought he was behind me…but when I turned into my apartment complex and ducked around the parking lot to pause my Garmin and wait it out…nothing came of it. Thank goodness. Call me paranoid, but I just wanted to make sure I was taking every precaution to keep safe out there in the dark. I finished up my remaining 2 miles and headed inside to get clean, make breakfast, and get ready for the day. Monday also means that it’s fun run day, so I went that evening out to my running store and hit the hills of Cherokee Park with no time goal in mind. Just having a fun run, as is the entire point. As it was my second run of the day, I made sure I slowed it down and took it easy on the hills, as much as I wanted to push up them. No time for injuries while training for something as important as a marathon. My Monday daily double ended with me, my roommate, and two of my good friends from the running group going out for frozen yogurt to cool down after a warm afternoon run.

Tuesday is the usual cross training day. This week I was scheduled for 40-50 minutes of cross training. No problem. I hit up the gym and did 45 minutes on the Arc Trainer on the Pike’s Peak setting. Training for the hills I’m encountering in my upcoming 15K in Upstate New York. I had it set for Level 5 and totally rocked it out. I was so pleased when that cardio session came to an end. I was still feeling good. Then it was on to 10 minutes on the stationary bike. I absolutely HATE the stationary bike. HATE. I hate it more than I hate the treadmill. Seriously. But I rocked it out, then went down to the weight room for a little bit and got in a bit of strength training as well.

Wednesday normally would be my speed work and pacing day…but not this time. As I stated, I did my speed work on Sunday and it was a good thing too. I woke up to thunderstorms. Lightning, wind, rain, the works. I got up and got dressed to go out to run and as I was opening the door, lightning flashed and reality came back to me. Running in rain is fine. Running in lightning…not so fine. Not safe. So, I took off my gear, kept on my workout clothes, and headed to the gym. I had my skin cancer procedure this morning at 7 a.m., so I didn’t have long to get my run done. I managed 5 minutes on the treadmill at the gym, hating every single moment of it. Finished it up, made it home in enough time to eat breakfast and then get to my dermatologist’s office for my appointment. It was not a good morning. But the procedure went fine and that’s the important part.

Thursday called for another easy run. This one was supposed to be for 5 miles. Easy pace. I ended up going for 7 miles. I think, for me, it was my way of taking back my body from the skin cancer. It was me showing that I run my body, nothing else does. It was liberating. And it was just what I needed that morning. I even ran it with negative splits, without even trying or needing to focus on pace or anything. I was out there because I could be and it really just made all the difference. Afterwards, I hit up the gym for another cardio and strength training session. I had a great workout there, hitting up the elliptical and then the Cardio Wave machine. Later that night, it was the second BlueMile Brew Mile, so I went out for that and rocked out a mile for charity. No free beer for me. This girl wanted water. I got to hang out two of my favorite running peeps who turned out for the mile run as well. Just an overall good day…feeling strong. During the mile run, I also tried on some Saucony Kinvara 4 shoes. They were very light. Not sure if I liked them or not, but I could totally tell the 3 ounce difference between those and my Nike’s. Hmmm…

Friday…the rest day. Also known as the day that drives me crazy. I hate not being able to even clock a few miles. As I said before, I get antsy and fidgety. But, I do continue to remind myself that these days are built into training plans for a reason. The body needs to heal itself from the hard, strenuous activity that I inflict on it during the week. In doing so, my body also gets stronger. Stronger means…I get faster. I’m fitter. I’m doing it. So, I went on a walk at lunch, kept it easy, just getting out and being active. And that was that. I was ready for my long run on Saturday now.

Saturday was my Long Slow Distance (LSD) pace long run for a scheduled 13 miles, per my marathon training. I met up with my group of runners, and there were some faces I hadn’t seen yet. So that was good. I promised them as we were planning out when to meet that I would bring goodies. I did. Gluten-free zucchini muffins, which I baked the night before using fresh zucchini from my CSA bin. Loving it. Anyway, the route was planned and we headed out at 6:30 a.m. to get the run in before the heat of the day. I ran all of this run with Matthew, who is a super-speedy, super great runner, and one that I met (and ran with) during the Mile 2 Mile run I did back in December. We talked the entire time, detoured through U of L’s campus when he and I failed to notice the Sidewalk Closed signs, got lost on our way to the pedestrian bridge, found the pedestrian bridge. Ran to the end. Hung out there, ran back across, spotted more of our group, so we turned around and ran back across the bridge. Then, headed back with two other runners, Harry and John, who were showing us a new route. Another sidewalk closure was ahead, but we hopped into the grass. I tripped on a piece of concrete, but caught myself. Matthew kept asking me if I was okay and if I had twisted an ankle…but I was fine. Didn’t slow me down any. We continued on down the waterfront to an area I had never been through, then we hit up a trail I ran part of one Monday with my fun run group. I powered through that trail and waited for everyone at the end of it. Harry sent Matthew and I on after we stood around for a moment. He was going to make it back with John. Matthew and I struck out to get back to the store. I was leading and missed the turn, so we turned off somewhere else, went up a hill, and hoped we’d end up where we needed to be. We just kept going straight until he noticed that we were near where he used to live while he was in college. YAY! We now knew where we were. We ran through the neighborhood and finally ended up on Bardstown Road. The humidity was really starting to suck, so we decided to hit the afterburners at the end and make an all-out sprint toward the “finish,” at the coffee shop. We made it. 15.5 miles in the books. It was the furthest distance I have run to date. And I was on cloud nine because I felt good. I felt great. That’s how I want to feel at that point, honestly. I think running with people can really just make all the difference. Anyway…strong finish in the humidity. I went to meet up with Cathy and went out for breakfast because, despite fueling along the way, I was starving and actually ready for food.

Not a bad week for my training. This week tapers back the miles a bit, which is fine. It’s also a holiday weekend, so that actually works out really well. I’ll be out of town and intend to meet up with a group of people so I can get my scheduled Saturday long run in. I just need to get the details on where to meet everyone. I’ll be sure to do that very soon.

So, despite having gone extra miles 2 days in a row…this week really made me feel strong and good as a runner. I feel my running is improving. And next week I am definitely getting back into my cardio circuits and my yoga. I slacked this past week on them due to my procedure, but no excuses this coming week. None.

Getting stronger…getting better…

And I’m healing up perfectly too. Loving it still!

June 16, 2013

Marathon Training Week #1 – In the beginning…

It has been a long, crazy, hectic, and draining week for me as I started my official training program for the Chicago Marathon. But I was totally excited to get it underway. It officially started last week…exactly…on Sunday, June 9th. It was…a rest day. Naturally. But I used that time wisely and started taking some steps that I hope will only better my training and my running in the long run.

That morning, I met up with a sports nutritionist. After getting a good physical report back from my check-up at the doctor and the okay to start marathon training as I was in very good health…I had inquired about talking with a sports nutritionist because…well…I am horrible when it comes to fueling and hydrating while on the run. And I wanted to go into this training doing everything possible to do right by my body. And that meant learning to fuel it properly before, during, and after running.

The problem was…we couldn’t find a sports nutritionist in this area. Strange, as we have the University of Louisville, which has a great sports program, right here. But…nope. Nothing. On a whim, I contacted Ken Combs Running Store and they put me in touch with one. Her name is Donna…and she’s awesome. She’s just like me – a gluten-free, vegetarian, long distance runner. She said she wasn’t taking on new clients at the time, but given my circumstances, she would definitely take me on.

In our first meeting she spoke to me about the importance of fueling my body correctly…not just on race day, but during the entire time I’m in training. This meant changing the way I looked at food…nutrition info…and changing up how I ate. We laid out a plan, which involved me drinking 16 ounces of water before heading out for a run, and getting something in my stomach. Prior to that, I would run my mornings on an empty stomach and not even bring water with me. I’d just go run. Worry about the rest when I got back. She emphasized how important it was to get something in my stomach so that my body is feeding off of the fuel rather than taking away from my muscle strength. It made sense. She’s moving me more towards a clean eating diet as well, which means less processed foods (aka: bad carbs) and more natural foods (aka: good carbs). And she is having me hydrate and fuel while out on every training run. This means not just water…but Gatorade to with giving my body electrolytes, sodium, and potassium that is lost while running…and giving an energy boost to the muscles with the carbohydrates it offers too. Fuel. I am also to take a GU or Sports Beans packet every 3-4 miles (about every 30 minutes) to really train my body to take in fuel while I’m on the run. It all made sense…so I vowed to start doing it.

I learned a lot from her and we’ll be meeting up again in a couple of months to see how I am progressing.

My charity group that I am running the Chicago Marathon with, Team Healthy Kids – part of Action For Healthy Kids, sent me a training program for my marathon training. I had one originally, but after looking at it, I felt that the mileage was too low. I’d been running 35-40 miles a week, and was being dropped down to half that. I contacted them to see about getting it changed up. They said that since this was my first marathon, they put me on the beginner plan, but they saw my point and moved me to the intermediate one. That being said, my first run happened on Monday morning.

Five miles…and it was raining. I heard the rain when I woke up that morning. But I didn’t make plans to head to the gym to hit the treadmill. I got dressed, laced up my shoes, grabbed my reflective gear and headed out the door. Marathons happen in all sorts of weather and as long as there was no lightning…I was hitting the roads. I noticed that Cathy had placed a sign up on the door. It had words of encouragement on it. And in marker she wrote me a message. I love that she is so supportive of my running and really is making sure I do my training as well. It means less time to do other things, but she seems willing to take on the sacrifice as well at times. The sign was the encouragement I needed. Monday morning…5 miles at an easy pace completed…in the rain. I felt really badass! I hated my time, but as the run specifically was meant to be done at an easy pace, I focused more on the pacing than the time.

Tuesday was my Cross Training day. I hit up the gym for a 45 minute session on the Arc Trainer, set to the hill setting. That was tough, but I got through it. Then I put myself through 10 minutes on the rowing machine. My arms were tired and sore from doing a yoga DVD on Sunday night…but I got through it and moved down to the weight room for some strength training.

Wednesday was supposed to be my 6 mile run in the morning, but…I was running a 10K on Saturday…when I was supposed to be running 9 miles long. So, I flip-flopped those days. On Wednesday, I spent my wee morning hours knocking out 9 miles in some pretty crazy humidity. I fueled every three miles and took Gatorade for hydration for the first time…since the Chicago Half Marathon. It all settled fine in my stomach and I finished the run feeling good. I was proud of myself.

Thursday meant it was Speed/Pacing day. And the schedule called for a 4 mile tempo run. A tempo run, for those of you who might not be familiar with the term, is simply running at a quicker pace than the easy pace, but at about 15 seconds slower than your 10K time. I managed to actually hold a rather steady tempo on my run, despite throwing in some hills to make it a bit tougher. I came out of that one surprised. Especially since I was also dealing with 15 mph winds that morning as well.

Friday…was the day of rest. I respected it and kept it holy.

Saturday was race day. I was participating in the Capital City Stampede 10K…which is why I moved my 6 mile run to Saturday. It just sort of…worked out that way. I went to the race, knocked it out with a new PR, and had a great time running. Races make me happy…but they are about to take a back seat to my training sessions.

And that rounded out my first official week of training for the Chicago Marathon. At the end of it…I feel good. I’m ready for this coming week where I work on my fueling, rehydration, and pace/speed as well. I have a goal…and I’m working hard to reach it. And…I have to say, I am very proud of myself for going out there on my first official day of training in the rain.

All-in-all…a draining, but very exciting week for me. On to the next…

January 5, 2013May 11, 2015

One week and 10 hard-earned miles later…

I’m not one to set a goal and take it lightly. I’m a fighter. A pursuer. A doer.

So, imagine my chagrin after declaring my 2013 running goal of running 1300 miles…and then heading out of town for the New Year…to be met with snow, ice, and roads that were not safe to run on while I was out of town. It was still December at that point…but running in place (or sprinting around the island) in my friend’s kitchen was even worse than running on a treadmill.

FOR REAL!

But…my dedication to the Runner’s World Run Streak and REDD (Run Every Day in December) meant…I ran. Even if it was running in place for 50 minutes to hit what would be 5 miles…all to simply get that run in.

Winter sucks. I dislike winter. I dislike it with a passion. The cold weather is hard on my skin…and definitely not easy to get out in and run. Oh, I’ll do it…I just don’t like doing it. And if the roads are trecherous…it means the outdoor run has to move indoors. This would normally mean a treadmill at the gym…but being out of town meant no gym.

So…my first run of January was done in my friend’s kitchen. My second run…on a treadmill. My third…I almost went outside for. But the 19 degree weather turned me back around and pushed me back into the warm cloak of my apartment. I also woke up with a migraine that day…so I endured my job at the office and then went over to the gym to pound out half of my required training run that day.

BLAH!

But this morning, I told myself to SUCK IT UP, CUPCAKE! So…I layered up the running clothes. Put on my reflective gear and blinking lights. And I headed outside for my first official outdoor run of the year. 4 miles. As it’s an early morning run, I stick close to home, so this is a 3-time out and back…but it gives me my mileage. The darkness is a bit of a challenge, but I do have a light clamped onto my hat. And the cold…well…it sometimes leaves me gasping for air…but it feels so good to actually move while running.

While I understand the need for cold weather, I am already looking forward to Spring. These cold mornings are doing a number on me. But I am going to do my best, on the mornings where it is tolerable, to take my run outside. Because, when it comes down to it…that’s where I love to run.

Here’s to one week of working toward my goal. Ten miles 4 days into it the year…not a great start…but not bad either! Given the circumstances, that is…

January 1, 2013May 11, 2015

2012 Mileage

And the grand total for my 2012 running mileage is:

1104.8 MILES IN 2012!!!

Now I’m ready to start on my 2013 goal. Thanks for some great runs, 2012!!

December 28, 2012

New Year, New Goal

Well…about this time last year I set what I thought was a lofty goal for 2012…to run 500 miles. And I had that in the books by the middle of the year. I had a silent goal to, perhaps, make 1200 miles in 2012, but with the injury that took me out of running for 2 weeks, it doesn’t look like I’ll make it. I’ll be off by…just under 100 miles. It kind of makes me sad, but it sure did make setting a goal for 2013 easier than anticipated.

And here it is:

In 2013, I intend to run 1300 miles.

There…I said it…and all of you are witnesses.

I think this is a little lofty…but I am hopefully going to be training for my first marathon…so mileage will be increasing at the start of the year when I put my training program into my phone and begin really looking ahead to the goal of going 26.2 miles this year. I am nervous…and excited all at once. And I love it.

I am also setting another goal…and that is to run 2013 injury free. This one may or may not come into fruition. I mean, accidents happen. Injuries happen. But I’m going to really focus on being a healthier, better runner. I’m going to make better choices when it comes to my runs and really listen to my body. I want to make this racing season a great one, with no DNS’ (Did Not Start) statuses and I hope to maintain my record of never having a DNF (Did Not Finish).

When all is said and done…goals are good to set…but the key to my running successes…the reason I can do this in brutal heat and bone-chilling cold…is that I truly love it. So, above all else, I hope that 2013 teaches me how to love this sport even more than I do. I have a good feeling that this is going to be a good year.

December 3, 2012

1000 miles and still days left in the year…

It was about the time I entered Cherokee Park on Saturday during the Mile 2 Mile run from one BlueMile running store to the other that I hit 1000 miles for the year. And I didn’t even acknowledge the moment or anything. Why? Because at the time I wasn’t thinking about it. I was having a conversation with a runner, a gentleman, that I had been running with for over half of the 12 mile run. I was in the lead group for pace setters for the Mile 2 Mile run and we were making fantastic time, despite stopping a few times to allow time to refuel or hydrate.

I realized it as I was sitting in the BlueMile store in the Highlands of Louisville, after changing out of my running clothes into my regular clothes for the day. I was putting on my shoes and socks and I looked up at my roommate and held up my hand for a high five.

“I’ve done 1000 miles!” I said simply, with a smile.

She high fived me and that was that. No big celebration or acknowledgement. There were other things to focus on that day.

That being said, this is a huge deal to me. I mean…1000 miles in a year may not seem like much, but I set a goal this year for 500 miles, and I have since doubled that goal. I’m at a loss of words as I sit here and reflect on this past year. And this, my dear readers and friends, is also with me being out of running for almost 3 weeks due to a very bad injury. I fought back through that, proved I was a better runner than before because of it, and have kept on trekking through the miles.

And the year isn’t over yet. I’m participating in two running programs this December. One is the annual Runners World Run Streak where runners pledge to run at least 1 mile every day from Thanksgiving into the New Year. I’ve kept that end of the bargain up without problem. And, in conjunction with that, my friends Armand and Ramond started a couple years back called REDD (Run Every Day in December). They work hand-in-hand. And…with all of this going on, I’m still training for my final half marathon of the year, which runs December 16, 2012 up in Indianapolis, Indiana. It all keeps me motivated and keeps me energized.

So…there it is…1000 miles down for the year and still an entire month ahead of me. I wonder what mileage I’ll tap out at this year. And this, in turn, makes me really rethink goals for next year. I’m excited…proud…and thrilled to have reached this goal.