Wow! So, hi, it's been awhile. I've given this blog a few fleeting thoughts over the last few months, but never actually convinced myself to write anything. Now, I report. I'm happy to tell you that since my last few posts in March things have really improved in terms of running--well, and life in general!
I took some time off of running shortly after I was posting about the foot issue and gradually the injury improved and I have no problems now. I think there was a week without running somewhere in March. Totally worth it. I have built up my miles slowly but surely and have been consistently running 35-60 minutes five days a week. I have raced in two great races (although no Bolder Boulder) and was actually pleased with my results! I signed up for the Imogene Pass Run and this weekend kicks off my training for the race -- right now my goal for a long run is starting off on the South side of Shanahan Ridge and climbing up to the Mesa trail and taking it to Chatauqua and back.
Higgins has made vast improvements, too! First of all, he's grown considerably and now outweighs Byrdie. He's not taller than her yet, but he's longer and possibly wider than her. He runs with me every day with no problems at all. The vet told me it was OK to take him 40 minutes, four times a week when we went in for his last check-up at 5.5 months and to keep him there until he's a year old. Well... you try and leave a super hyper seven-month-old puppy home while you run when he's jumping around like crazy because he knows you're getting ready to go out. I can't! He'd probably pee on me if I did (long story). So I take him. I'm having an internal battle with myself about the long run I have planned this weekend (take him? leave him?).
So running is great! Life is great! I have a packed summer, but it's totally worth the sleep-deprivation and non-stop running around because it means I probably won't have to take another class until I start my program. I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. And much thanks to my wonderful, loving boyfriend for the support along the way.
So to catch you up on the last week, since I'm planning to give this a go again, here's my running log:
Monday: 30 minutes, trails
Tuesday: Off - too busy
Wednesday: 35 minutes with V, trails
Thursday: 45 minutes, treadmill (long day again)
My goal for the rest of the week includes another easy run on Friday - maybe I'll go do Marshall to avoid hills, 40 minutesish, Saturday, a couple of hours easy, hills, trails, etc. and Sunday, another easy run.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Week 9: Day 2
I just have to say that I cannot believe it's March already! Gone are my hopes of running that 1/2 marathon in Moab (I'm OK with that, though) and the same goes for my fleeting hopes of a trip to Mexico in April. This week, as it's 55-60 degrees and sunny in Colorado, I'm alright with having none of it. Now I have my sight set on the Apostle Islands (like B. and I talked about at Christmas, but probably won't happen unless I get my butt in gear and plan) for our trip and the Bolder Boulder for my run.
Anyway! I worked late tonight and had the morning free. I was quite productive - took Higgins for a 15 minute run, ran another 15 minutes, baked a pie, finished my exam and even had time for a little coffee before heading to work! The run with Higgins was fun! I took him and Byrdie out on the hilly neighborhood roads and kept my pace in check so as not to burn the little guy out on his first attempt. He was very well behaved, too! He stuck by my side and didn't stray much safe for the time a bus drove past and scared the Dickens out of him. :) He tired around 10 minutes or so of constant trotting (no sprinting, sniffing or pooping along the way!) so we rounded back to the house. Then I was starting to feel the pressure of my morning tasks on my back so I just made another loop around the neighborhood.
Total:
Running: 60 minutes
Anyway! I worked late tonight and had the morning free. I was quite productive - took Higgins for a 15 minute run, ran another 15 minutes, baked a pie, finished my exam and even had time for a little coffee before heading to work! The run with Higgins was fun! I took him and Byrdie out on the hilly neighborhood roads and kept my pace in check so as not to burn the little guy out on his first attempt. He was very well behaved, too! He stuck by my side and didn't stray much safe for the time a bus drove past and scared the Dickens out of him. :) He tired around 10 minutes or so of constant trotting (no sprinting, sniffing or pooping along the way!) so we rounded back to the house. Then I was starting to feel the pressure of my morning tasks on my back so I just made another loop around the neighborhood.
Total:
Running: 60 minutes
Monday, March 1, 2010
Week 9: Day 1
OK! To stay on the "we're really busy because we have family visiting" theme, I didn't have much time for running today. I was able to squeeze in a 30 minute run on the Shanahan Loop, but honestly I've built my base to a point where I feel as if these short runs aren't doing much for me anymore. Something is better than nothing, though.
Not much to say about this particular run except that my arch was burning when I finished. This could be a result of snowboarding yesterday though so I won't worry that my injury is worsening... yet.
Total:
Running: 30 minutes
Not much to say about this particular run except that my arch was burning when I finished. This could be a result of snowboarding yesterday though so I won't worry that my injury is worsening... yet.
Total:
Running: 30 minutes
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Week 8: Day 7
Today B., feeling much better, and I headed to Copper Mountain to use some of our passes before the time to use them runs out (which is quickly approaching!). Anxious to get home to our new little Higginbottom, we decided to do as many runs as we could before 1pm and leave the mountain early. We had a great time and I was reminded that I actually do enjoy being out there on the hills, in the cold, with a board strapped to my feet despite the effort of actually getting to that point. We avoided most traffic, thankfully, as our trip home last weekend took 4.5 hours, but still it took a few hours to drive down the mountain and up to Longmont to pick up the dogs and finally head home. We arrived back in Boulder around 4:30pm - plenty of time to exercise if one so chooses. I chose not to. :) Well, to give a little credit to myself, we have two visiting families this week and I have an exam due Tuesday evening, so the time really wasn't there.
I don't like to count my snowboarding time as exercise - activity yes, exercise no - so you won't see it in my pitiful weekly total. My foot is still hovering in that sort-of-injured-but-not-so-serious injury state.
Total:
Running: 146 minutes
I don't like to count my snowboarding time as exercise - activity yes, exercise no - so you won't see it in my pitiful weekly total. My foot is still hovering in that sort-of-injured-but-not-so-serious injury state.
Total:
Running: 146 minutes
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Week 8: Day 6
Staying up in Wildernest this weekend which is situated around 10,000 feet and B. and I were both looking forward to getting in a solid run or two at the high altitude! Well, that only happened for one of us (and being selfish, I'm glad it was me). B. was sick all day Saturday - so sick that he couldn't really move from the bed/chair that he laid/sat in all day.
I, on the other hand, ventured out to a trail that was just a half mile or so from our condo, ignoring B.'s cold and envious stare as I left him behind. The trail is listed here and although it was snow-covered, it was still teeming with life (hikers, skiers and snowshoe-ers, that is!). I haven't run at this altitude since B. and I planned to run the Continental Divide. We weren't able to do so thanks to seven foot snow drifts closing Trail Ridge Road, but we did play around for a few hours in RMNP just below Longs Peak. Anyway, a pretty interesting run! Now, it should be said that I do not do well at altitude when it comes to running: my lips turn purple, I get dizzy and slightly confused. Knowing this, I really have no business exercising up there in the first place. Do you think that would stop me? Nah.
I started off running up a pretty decent incline and my lungs cried out right away! Eventually my body adjusted to the change and I decided I could handle it. The run, though rather short, was a fairly challenging one with steep inclines and declines all along the way. The trail was really busy so a few times I was forced to step off the trail when skiers chose to ski through (whether or not I planned to let them through) and I found myself sinking into knee-to-waist deep snow! "Oh, sorry!" was always echoing my efforts to climb out of the sinkhole. I did have that dizzy feeling a couple of times during the run and once I even stopped for fear of passing out. My pace was fairly quick as running those rolling hills will keep you from settling into a pace.
The whole run (out and back) took me 44 minutes and I'm betting it wasn't much over 4-4.5 miles. :) I ran out to Lily Lake which had really beautiful views surrounding it. I hoped for a clear night and crossed my fingers that Ben would feel a little better so we could hike out to the lake together. Unfortunately it was cloudy and I didn't feel well in the evening. The run was awesome. My altitude sickness can't stop me! I love the feeling of the trails under my feet and the knowing that most people wouldn't even think of attempting what I accomplish while I'm out there. I'm reminded that I want to plan more high altitude runs in the warmer months. Maybe we can make that Continental Divide run happen this summer.
Total:
Running: 146 minutes
I, on the other hand, ventured out to a trail that was just a half mile or so from our condo, ignoring B.'s cold and envious stare as I left him behind. The trail is listed here and although it was snow-covered, it was still teeming with life (hikers, skiers and snowshoe-ers, that is!). I haven't run at this altitude since B. and I planned to run the Continental Divide. We weren't able to do so thanks to seven foot snow drifts closing Trail Ridge Road, but we did play around for a few hours in RMNP just below Longs Peak. Anyway, a pretty interesting run! Now, it should be said that I do not do well at altitude when it comes to running: my lips turn purple, I get dizzy and slightly confused. Knowing this, I really have no business exercising up there in the first place. Do you think that would stop me? Nah.
I started off running up a pretty decent incline and my lungs cried out right away! Eventually my body adjusted to the change and I decided I could handle it. The run, though rather short, was a fairly challenging one with steep inclines and declines all along the way. The trail was really busy so a few times I was forced to step off the trail when skiers chose to ski through (whether or not I planned to let them through) and I found myself sinking into knee-to-waist deep snow! "Oh, sorry!" was always echoing my efforts to climb out of the sinkhole. I did have that dizzy feeling a couple of times during the run and once I even stopped for fear of passing out. My pace was fairly quick as running those rolling hills will keep you from settling into a pace.
The whole run (out and back) took me 44 minutes and I'm betting it wasn't much over 4-4.5 miles. :) I ran out to Lily Lake which had really beautiful views surrounding it. I hoped for a clear night and crossed my fingers that Ben would feel a little better so we could hike out to the lake together. Unfortunately it was cloudy and I didn't feel well in the evening. The run was awesome. My altitude sickness can't stop me! I love the feeling of the trails under my feet and the knowing that most people wouldn't even think of attempting what I accomplish while I'm out there. I'm reminded that I want to plan more high altitude runs in the warmer months. Maybe we can make that Continental Divide run happen this summer.
Total:
Running: 146 minutes
Friday, February 26, 2010
Week 8: Day 5
No run. No time. Heading to the mountains tonight to spend time with B.'s family. Should be fun!
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Week 8: Day 4
I woke early today. I was anxious about everything that B. and I need to do before leaving for the mountains and then having family stay over next week: exam, CLEAN, pack, take care of dogs, bake pie, date night, work, run. Tonight is date night - which B. and I haven't been able to take advantage of lately with all of our visitors - but alas the task list was too long and we decided that takeout and cleaning would suffice for the night. So I planned my day out - run this am, get ready and head to work, come home and squeeze in some studying and then clean clean clean my little heart out. Well, I almost made it through the list: run - check, work - check, clean - check. The studying part never happened thanks to a late meeting and then heavy traffic thanks to a dusting of snow. Ah, well, the best intentions...
My run was nice! Byrdie and I took the Shannahan Short Loop. Slick! We made it out unscathed and in 32 minutes.
Total:
Running: 102 minutes
My run was nice! Byrdie and I took the Shannahan Short Loop. Slick! We made it out unscathed and in 32 minutes.
Total:
Running: 102 minutes
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Week 8: Day 3
So today was a day off. Not really because of my foot, although a little unplanned recovery can never hurt the plantar fasciitis, but because I have an exam due at the end of the week and B. and I have visitors again. I took the time to hammer through a chapter and some practice problems. Exciting life, right? Try not to be overcome by jealousy!
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Week 8: Day 2
Today I had to take Higgins to the vet, so I left work early and managed to get home with plenty of daylight for a sunny afternoon run. (Sidenote: Higgins is OK, just has dry skin and a little kennel cough which will clear up in time) Byrdie and I ran out to Bluestem again. This is the second day in a row that I've chosen this route. It's a little more stable and there aren't as many climbs, so I think it's a safe run for my foot. We just ran to the gate at the top of the hill and back. I was feeling really good again and wanted to do more, but thought better of it for injury's sake.
Total:
Running: 70 minutes
Total:
Running: 70 minutes
Monday, February 22, 2010
Week 8: Day 1
I had the morning free since I'm working in the gym this evening. Despite the fact that I just got a new puppy and despite the temptation of staying in bed to snuggle with that sleeping boy, I made it out for my first run after a 6 day recovery period. I took it easy and paid close attention to how my foot felt throughout the run. Really, it didn't bother me all that much. Since this injury seems to be an overuse type of injury, I know this doesn't mean much, just coming off of a long break. I'm hopeful, though!
We had fresh snow this morning and Byrdie loved it!
Recalling:
The snow-laden pine branches hanging low, grabbing at my shoulders as I pass by them by and dropping that fluffy white stuff onto me.
Once again, fresh powder and the cross country skiers greeting me with a wide grin - afterall, this is Boulder and it's not often you can take advantage of powder before the Boulderites tromp through the snow and pack it down.
The feeling a run after total cardiovascular recovery - I didn't often experience this feeling in my racing years!
Total:
Running: 30 minutes
We had fresh snow this morning and Byrdie loved it!
Recalling:
The snow-laden pine branches hanging low, grabbing at my shoulders as I pass by them by and dropping that fluffy white stuff onto me.
Once again, fresh powder and the cross country skiers greeting me with a wide grin - afterall, this is Boulder and it's not often you can take advantage of powder before the Boulderites tromp through the snow and pack it down.
The feeling a run after total cardiovascular recovery - I didn't often experience this feeling in my racing years!
Total:
Running: 30 minutes
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Week 7: Day 7
Well, I sort of fell of the blog bandwagon, but I'm back! Likewise, I fell off the exercise bandwagon, for good reason though. My foot has been giving me a fair amount of trouble despite my attempt to "baby" the injury. I thought about biking for a while instead of running, but realized soon after the thought that I also tend to have foot cramps on the bike (specifically in my injured foot). So without really trying to, I more or less took this week off.
We'll call it a recovery week, although my foot isn't much better. :(
We'll call it a recovery week, although my foot isn't much better. :(
Monday, February 15, 2010
Week 7: Day 1
Today I found some goodies at a small shop near B.'s office. We stopped at Starbucks (alright, it's convenience at it's worst) and he pointed out the store next door. I ended up buying two much needed running tops - one short-sleeved and one long-sleeved. I love walking through small running shops. They bring back so many memories of high school and college. I also love supporting these shops. Sure, they are typically priced a bit higher than a larger store or something you can find online, but if you like the intention behind the business, then why not pay that extra bit to support them? It looks like they have a fairly strong running community program going on in Louisville - totally a fan! I'd love to get involved with something around Boulder like this, but my commuting pretty much takes that option out of the picture. Anyway, back to the shirts... I wore one on my run! Yay!
Byrdie and I ran part of Big Bluestem again today. My arch was tender during the first 15 minutes of the run, and so instead of running the whole Bluestem loop like I planned, I just went out to the second gate (downhill first) and back. After my foot warmed up, I wished I would have continued around the loop, but now that I'm back home I'm glad I didn't push any more. Sore! I'm thinking that I might need to do some biking for a couple of days since my foot hasn't been recovering between runs. Good thing B. got that Cycleops together. :)
Total:
Running: 41 minutes
Byrdie and I ran part of Big Bluestem again today. My arch was tender during the first 15 minutes of the run, and so instead of running the whole Bluestem loop like I planned, I just went out to the second gate (downhill first) and back. After my foot warmed up, I wished I would have continued around the loop, but now that I'm back home I'm glad I didn't push any more. Sore! I'm thinking that I might need to do some biking for a couple of days since my foot hasn't been recovering between runs. Good thing B. got that Cycleops together. :)
Total:
Running: 41 minutes
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Week 6: Day 7
This morning I got out for my run relatively early. Considering the hectic pace of the last few days, I decided it was best to get it out of the way before anything could disrupt my routine. We had a light dusting of snow last night which meant for a very pleasant jaunt. Byrdie was lovin' the day. I can't seem to remember her at all on the run, which means she was probably off happily bounding around in the snow keeping her distance but still keeping me in sight so I didn't have to call her back. We only ran to the top of the Bluestem trail and back - about 40 minutes. My legs were sore from yoga and running yesterday, so this was a bit of a shakeout run.
The sun was blinding (but, oh, the sun!) as it reflected off the fresh powder and the trails were frozen which made for much more pleasant conditions than yesterday's run. My arch didn't bother me while I was running, but I can definitely feel it now. Honestly, I've come to believe that there are two reasons for my arch problem: yoga and my new Danskos. I have naturally high arches, but over the years of pounding with less than ideal arch support, they have collapsed a little. Since I've added yoga back into my routine, my body is realigning. The Danskos I've been wearing to work everyday have great arch support. Unfortunatly I don't have the same support in my running shoes. This can be fixed! I'll be more conscious of wearing my orthodics.
Anyway, here's the pathetic total for the week:
Total:
Yoga: 60 minutes
Running: 145 minutes
More rest days than I care to mention (again)
The sun was blinding (but, oh, the sun!) as it reflected off the fresh powder and the trails were frozen which made for much more pleasant conditions than yesterday's run. My arch didn't bother me while I was running, but I can definitely feel it now. Honestly, I've come to believe that there are two reasons for my arch problem: yoga and my new Danskos. I have naturally high arches, but over the years of pounding with less than ideal arch support, they have collapsed a little. Since I've added yoga back into my routine, my body is realigning. The Danskos I've been wearing to work everyday have great arch support. Unfortunatly I don't have the same support in my running shoes. This can be fixed! I'll be more conscious of wearing my orthodics.
Anyway, here's the pathetic total for the week:
Total:
Yoga: 60 minutes
Running: 145 minutes
More rest days than I care to mention (again)
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Week 6: Day 6
Yoga in the morning - an absolutely humbling class. I felt close to passing out twice during the standing poses. I actually had to bring myself into child's pose more than once. Maybe I was dehydrated, maybe sleep deprived with a four-month-old baby waking at all hours of the night and morning, maybe I was just having an off day.
I returned home and refueled with fresh squeezed juice and breakfast courtesy of B. I napped and then went for a 35 minute run with Byrdie, Rufus and B. I didn't feel great, but I really didn't feel horrible either.
Total:
Yoga: 60 minutes
Running: 105 minutes
I returned home and refueled with fresh squeezed juice and breakfast courtesy of B. I napped and then went for a 35 minute run with Byrdie, Rufus and B. I didn't feel great, but I really didn't feel horrible either.
Total:
Yoga: 60 minutes
Running: 105 minutes
Friday, February 12, 2010
Week 6: Day 4 and 5
Nada.
Thursday: left for work at 6am, worked until 3pm, met B. and family in downtown Boulder for a late lunch, then spent time with them for the rest of the evening.
This is going to be a bad week...
Friday: Drove up to Estes Park, had coffee, then lunch and walked around the shops. Drove into RMNP to hike around a bit and got caught in a snowstorm (and B. drove my car into the ditch... twice).
No exercise.
Thursday: left for work at 6am, worked until 3pm, met B. and family in downtown Boulder for a late lunch, then spent time with them for the rest of the evening.
This is going to be a bad week...
Friday: Drove up to Estes Park, had coffee, then lunch and walked around the shops. Drove into RMNP to hike around a bit and got caught in a snowstorm (and B. drove my car into the ditch... twice).
No exercise.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Week 6: Day 3
More family in town today! Matt, Liz and Baby Amira arrived this afternoon, so I woke early and packed my clothes and drove to campus to work out in the gym before work. Treadmill running is definitely one of my least favorite modes of activity, but it's better than not running at all.
Ran for 40 miserable minutes (while watching ESPN...) and called it good.
Total:
Running: 70 minutes
Ran for 40 miserable minutes (while watching ESPN...) and called it good.
Total:
Running: 70 minutes
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Week 6: Day 2
Hmm... does a ten minute loop around the house count? Lacked motivation for running in the cold and dark tonight. Then I thought that I would bike indoors instead, but B. didn't have his Cyclops set up and by the time he was home from work I lost motivation for that, too.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Week 6: Day 1
Today I woke early to a wintry morning and, for the first time this season, ran while the snow fell. Big wet snowflakes. If this wasn't a first for the season, then at least it was the most memorable run thus far. I dressed warm - maybe too warm - anticipating the single-digit temperature, pulled B. out of bed and out the door we went, donning our Yaktrax. The sky was bright with light despite the complete cloud cover at sunrise. The trails were bedded with three inches or so of fluffy powder and we made first tracks! I was pleased to be wearing my Yaktrax. Funny thing about those little devils: About halfway through the run I suddenly found myself jerked head over heels to the ground, smashing both knees against rocks, sending mittens (that were in-hand but not on, thanks to my overdressing) across the trail eventually to be found buried in the fresh powder. What a fall! When I straightened myself out I saw that my shoelace was untied. Confused and stunned that a simple untied lace could pull me down with such force I started collecting my things and brushing off my snow-covered clothes. As it turns out, one of my Yaktrax broke and the metal wire stuck straight out from my left shoe and tugged on my right shoelace which was the cause of the fall. Ouch.
B. had been running ahead of me before the fall and didn't realize I had tripped. It took a minute or two to gather myself and rig up my Yaktrax to make sure I wouldn't trip again. He waited at the turn off wondering what became of me and I caught up after a few minutes and pouted for a bit. Really, I was happy that I wasn't injured and glad for the few inches of snow to cushion my fall. We finished the run cursing the snow-covered ice (quite cheerfully I might add) and slip-sliding downhill on one-leg or the other.
All in all, a good run. No injuries, an OK-feeling arch afterward and a happy Byrd dog.
Total:
Running: 30 minutes
B. had been running ahead of me before the fall and didn't realize I had tripped. It took a minute or two to gather myself and rig up my Yaktrax to make sure I wouldn't trip again. He waited at the turn off wondering what became of me and I caught up after a few minutes and pouted for a bit. Really, I was happy that I wasn't injured and glad for the few inches of snow to cushion my fall. We finished the run cursing the snow-covered ice (quite cheerfully I might add) and slip-sliding downhill on one-leg or the other.
All in all, a good run. No injuries, an OK-feeling arch afterward and a happy Byrd dog.
Total:
Running: 30 minutes
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Week 5: Day 7
Well, a very productive day at the homefront... but no time left for running. Boo.
See yesterday's post for my total. I took more days off than I care to admit. Visitors always throw my training out of whack, but since we have one just about every other weekend this Spring, I best get used to it!
New shoes arrived. Only hiked in them but I love 'em already.
See yesterday's post for my total. I took more days off than I care to admit. Visitors always throw my training out of whack, but since we have one just about every other weekend this Spring, I best get used to it!
New shoes arrived. Only hiked in them but I love 'em already.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Week 5: Day 6
Yoga class at 9:30 as usual - good class, yet again.
Hike on Mt. Sanitas with Meagan and LB... ended up getting lost in the dark on the trails and hiking down a steep trail through a ravine before making it back to the main trail. Pretty creepy with only two headlamps and the three of us uncertain of our whereabouts. Luckily, it was Sanitas and you can see the lights of Boulder the entire hike. :) We also saw a mysterious black animal prowling after some nearby deer. I suspect that Ben's idea about Jack is right, and he's leading a pack of coyote's around Boulder. The hike took us 2.5 hours.
Total:
Yoga: 60 minutes
Hiking 150 minutes
Running: 136 minutes
Hike on Mt. Sanitas with Meagan and LB... ended up getting lost in the dark on the trails and hiking down a steep trail through a ravine before making it back to the main trail. Pretty creepy with only two headlamps and the three of us uncertain of our whereabouts. Luckily, it was Sanitas and you can see the lights of Boulder the entire hike. :) We also saw a mysterious black animal prowling after some nearby deer. I suspect that Ben's idea about Jack is right, and he's leading a pack of coyote's around Boulder. The hike took us 2.5 hours.
Total:
Yoga: 60 minutes
Hiking 150 minutes
Running: 136 minutes
Friday, February 5, 2010
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Week 5: Day 4
Today I ran with V on the Boulder Creek trail. We hopped on near her house (Arapahoe and 9th) and ran to the top and back down. We talked about everything under the sun, and a little about pace. I'm happy with my 8:20 pace at this point - there's no reason to grind - but I think her pace is just a touch faster than mine. This is good, we decided, as we need to push each other ever so often. The uphill was slightly challenging (felt sluggish) and of course the downhill was a breeze. There was some ice which slowed us down some.
Ran just shy of 50 minutes. My arch felt OK today and I think running on concrete and crushed gravel rather than the rocky trails is helping. New shoes ordered and due to arrive soon! There will be no running tomorrow. My sissy is coming to town and we're heading out straight from work. I'd rather sneak something in, but I guess I'm not so willing that I will get up at 5am to run in the dark. :)
Total:
Running: 136 minutes
Ran just shy of 50 minutes. My arch felt OK today and I think running on concrete and crushed gravel rather than the rocky trails is helping. New shoes ordered and due to arrive soon! There will be no running tomorrow. My sissy is coming to town and we're heading out straight from work. I'd rather sneak something in, but I guess I'm not so willing that I will get up at 5am to run in the dark. :)
Total:
Running: 136 minutes
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Week 5: Day 2
Ran in the dark again - 33 minutes today. My arch was tender before the run, but not really hurting. It kinda kills me to run on it when I know it's sore but what choice do I have right now? No cardio available to me outside of running or walking. *sigh*
New shoes... I'll order 'em tonight!
Total:
Running: 86 minutes
New shoes... I'll order 'em tonight!
Total:
Running: 86 minutes
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Week 5: Day 2
Today I had a great run! Home by 5:30pm I headed out the door for a run in the neighborhood and this was OK since my foot has been bothering me and I want to avoid rocky trails as much as possible. I ran the loop I've been frequenting as of late (Lehigh --> Greenbriar) and I couldn't help but hop on the track once again.
Before the track, I ran for 26 minutes - easy pace. Ran one mile around the track just to get a sense for my pace again: 8:20. I'm OK with that. Then decided I'd pick up my pace and do a couple laps without checking my watch. Two laps turned into four! I was fairly comfortable - trying to back off a little when I found my breath becoming ragged and uncontrolled - and here's the result:
Lap 1: 1:45
Lap 2: 1:42
Lap 3: 1: 43
Lap 4: 1:46
A total of 6:56 pace. Not 6:30-40 pace like I thought, but still OK with me for now. I think I'll continue to do these mile pickups and watch my progress.
I did a "cooldown" back home for 12 minutes for a total of 53 minutes today. Not too shabby! Oh, and my foot didn't bother me at all, although just to be safe I think I will buy new running shoes.
Total:
Run: 53 minutes
Before the track, I ran for 26 minutes - easy pace. Ran one mile around the track just to get a sense for my pace again: 8:20. I'm OK with that. Then decided I'd pick up my pace and do a couple laps without checking my watch. Two laps turned into four! I was fairly comfortable - trying to back off a little when I found my breath becoming ragged and uncontrolled - and here's the result:
Lap 1: 1:45
Lap 2: 1:42
Lap 3: 1: 43
Lap 4: 1:46
A total of 6:56 pace. Not 6:30-40 pace like I thought, but still OK with me for now. I think I'll continue to do these mile pickups and watch my progress.
I did a "cooldown" back home for 12 minutes for a total of 53 minutes today. Not too shabby! Oh, and my foot didn't bother me at all, although just to be safe I think I will buy new running shoes.
Total:
Run: 53 minutes
Monday, February 1, 2010
Week 5: Day 1
None. No excuse here... except maybe that my arch is still bothering me... but really that is one lame ass excuse for no exercise. :)
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Week 4: Day 7
Nada. SO sore from yoga and running yesterday but what it came down to was that my arch is still bothering me! Boo!
Ben and I took Byrdie for a nice walk around the neighborhood (about 60 minutes) but I wouldn't call that exercise. Activity yes, exercise no.
What to do, what to do... Cross train. Boo.
Total:
Pilates: 60 minutes
Running: 160 minutes
Yoga: 60 minutes
Rest days: 2 (including walk day)
Ben and I took Byrdie for a nice walk around the neighborhood (about 60 minutes) but I wouldn't call that exercise. Activity yes, exercise no.
What to do, what to do... Cross train. Boo.
Total:
Pilates: 60 minutes
Running: 160 minutes
Yoga: 60 minutes
Rest days: 2 (including walk day)
Week 4: Day 6
Today was another beautiful mid-Winter day. I think the temps got up to 50 degrees! Yay! I woke early and enjoyed a little coffee before heading to yoga. Class was awesome - I think I can officially say that this instructor is the best teacher I've ever had in a yoga class. I'm still not crazy about how the Corepower yoga classes are run, but Ashley's teaching style really makes it worth going to the studio. Once my Groupon is expired I'm going to have a hard time not going to the Saturday morning class!
After a great breakfast with friends at Walnut Cafe, Ben and I ran part of the Big Bluestem trail (to the gate and back). We kept a steady moderate pace the whole way. Our run was 36 minutes long.
My right arch is bothering me again. I iced today so we'll see how it feels tomorrow. I will consider running some flatter trails or roads with no rocks to maneuver for the next few days. I really don't want this to turn into plantar fasciitis. Ugh.
Total:
Pilates: 60 minutes
Running: 160 minutes
Yoga: 60 minutes
After a great breakfast with friends at Walnut Cafe, Ben and I ran part of the Big Bluestem trail (to the gate and back). We kept a steady moderate pace the whole way. Our run was 36 minutes long.
My right arch is bothering me again. I iced today so we'll see how it feels tomorrow. I will consider running some flatter trails or roads with no rocks to maneuver for the next few days. I really don't want this to turn into plantar fasciitis. Ugh.
Total:
Pilates: 60 minutes
Running: 160 minutes
Yoga: 60 minutes
Friday, January 29, 2010
Week 4: Day 5
A BEAUTIFUL day for running! So happy to have the daylight and warmth today for my run! I took my phone along and captured some photos...
So my goal was yoga and running tonight, but I kicked ass on my run and I'm too beat for yoga. My intention was to be out the door at 3:30 and back home by 4:30 to make a 5pm yoga class, but I futzed around the house too long and wasn't out the door until 3:45. My motivation for running fast was to make it back in time for the class (afterall, I just got a great new yoga tank from Prana!) but really, I knew that it wouldn't be feasible to run that hard and then make it through class. Still, I was able to trick my brain for most of the run and managed to push and push and push! I'm thinking this route was 8 miles-ish? I'm hoping longer because I ran for 58 minutes, but I think my route plotted on mapmyrun.com says 8.
Big Bluestem from home. I really like this run; it's the perfect combination of hills and flat sections. I started off running moderately fast during the flat/downhill portion. Once I started to climb I really cranked. I did stop to take a few iphone pics and of course to open gates but other than that I just cruised (huffing and puffing). Once to the top I let myself recover and then ran hard again, this time downhill. There's a slight uphill during the last 1.5 miles before home and I sort of ran at a moderate pace through it.
I really enjoyed the run! I wore my yaktrax thinking there'd be ice but surprisingly everything has pretty much melted. I sort of irritated my arch again wearing them. At least that's why I think it is sore. I'll take it easy tomorrow - but hopefully still get some decent miles in - and see how my foot feels.
Here's some photos from my run!
Total:
Pilates: 60 minutes
Running: 124 minutes
Big Bluestem from home. I really like this run; it's the perfect combination of hills and flat sections. I started off running moderately fast during the flat/downhill portion. Once I started to climb I really cranked. I did stop to take a few iphone pics and of course to open gates but other than that I just cruised (huffing and puffing). Once to the top I let myself recover and then ran hard again, this time downhill. There's a slight uphill during the last 1.5 miles before home and I sort of ran at a moderate pace through it.
I really enjoyed the run! I wore my yaktrax thinking there'd be ice but surprisingly everything has pretty much melted. I sort of irritated my arch again wearing them. At least that's why I think it is sore. I'll take it easy tomorrow - but hopefully still get some decent miles in - and see how my foot feels.
Here's some photos from my run!
Happy dog!
Pilates: 60 minutes
Running: 124 minutes
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Week 4: Day 4
Nada!
My day:
Up at 6am
6-7:15 Genetics
7:15-7:45 Get ready for work
7:45-8:30 Commute
8:30-5:15 Work
5:15-6:15 Commute
6:15-7 Get ready for date
7-? Date night
The end.
Tomorrow.
My day:
Up at 6am
6-7:15 Genetics
7:15-7:45 Get ready for work
7:45-8:30 Commute
8:30-5:15 Work
5:15-6:15 Commute
6:15-7 Get ready for date
7-? Date night
The end.
Tomorrow.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Week 4: Day 3
Tonight Veronique came over for a quick run after I finished work and just before she went in. Once again I was feeling frustrated because I worked 1.5 hours longer than anticipated so I was late for our planned run. Thankfully we still had enough time to fit in a decent one.
Ran out to the bluestem trail and to the top of the hill to the fence and turned back. Aside from the hill climb, this was a fairly easy run and I felt really good. No foot pain during or after. Yay!
I'd really like to go to yoga and run tomorrow like last week but I really don't want to get my hopes up only to be dashed again by work. I guess I'll just go with the flow. Running is my priority (despite the cold and snow waiting for me out there... and despite that ever-tempting 80 degree yoga studio) so I just need to keep that in mind. If I have time for running and yoga before my date with B. then great, otherwise I'll just go to yoga on Friday or over the weekend.
Anyway, a respectable 37 minutes in the books. I'm only up to 66 minutes... guess tomorrow should be about an hour run. Since I'm feeling so good, maybe I should try for an hour tomorrow, an easier one on Friday and then two longer runs over the weekend??
Side note: Super hungry as of late. I really should pack better calorie-packed/protein-rich foods for myself. Tonight though, I'm beat and ready for bed now. My grammar and punctuation in this post can attest my fatigue. Oh, side-side note is that I'm taking iron, vit C and vit B12 again. Yay me!
Total:
Pilates: 60 minutes
Running: 66 minutes
Ran out to the bluestem trail and to the top of the hill to the fence and turned back. Aside from the hill climb, this was a fairly easy run and I felt really good. No foot pain during or after. Yay!
I'd really like to go to yoga and run tomorrow like last week but I really don't want to get my hopes up only to be dashed again by work. I guess I'll just go with the flow. Running is my priority (despite the cold and snow waiting for me out there... and despite that ever-tempting 80 degree yoga studio) so I just need to keep that in mind. If I have time for running and yoga before my date with B. then great, otherwise I'll just go to yoga on Friday or over the weekend.
Anyway, a respectable 37 minutes in the books. I'm only up to 66 minutes... guess tomorrow should be about an hour run. Since I'm feeling so good, maybe I should try for an hour tomorrow, an easier one on Friday and then two longer runs over the weekend??
Side note: Super hungry as of late. I really should pack better calorie-packed/protein-rich foods for myself. Tonight though, I'm beat and ready for bed now. My grammar and punctuation in this post can attest my fatigue. Oh, side-side note is that I'm taking iron, vit C and vit B12 again. Yay me!
Total:
Pilates: 60 minutes
Running: 66 minutes
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Week 4: Day 2
This morning I woke early to squeeze in a little genetics study time before work. I sipped on some fresh squeezed juice courtesy of B. and then a little coffee... courtesy of me. :) After about an hour of solid studying and caffeinating I was more than ready for a run! Short on time, I did the short Shanahan Loop (south and then down the middle) and I pushed myself most of the way. For the first 18 minutes of my 29 minute run I was working hard and the last 11 minutes I backed off (plus it was downhill). I felt so good! Love having legs under me - even if I am a long way from race shape. I have to say that coupling my runs with yoga (or climbing or even Pilates) really makes me feel stronger.
Foot felt better today! I actually didn't even notice any discomfort!
Total:
Pilates: 60 minutes
Running: 29 minutes
Foot felt better today! I actually didn't even notice any discomfort!
Total:
Pilates: 60 minutes
Running: 29 minutes
Monday, January 25, 2010
Week 4: Day 1
Week 4 already? Wow! OK, well thanks to Twitter I found this free class schedule offered by the local Prana store. Having never taken a Pilates class before, I thought that a free class was the perfect opportunity to try something new. Kristen and I rolled out our yoga mats and settled in for the 90 minute class. I was surprised by the nature of the class... and I'm not sure why?! I knew going into the class that it was a strengthening/core class... I don't know, I guess I just wasn't a huge fan!
The class actually only lasted 60 minutes and while I did leave feeling like I gave my core a good workout, I didn't have that yoga-ish afterglow from centering yourself and breathing into your whole body. Ah well, at least I tried, right?
Right foot still just a little tender.
Total:
Pilates: 60 minutes
The class actually only lasted 60 minutes and while I did leave feeling like I gave my core a good workout, I didn't have that yoga-ish afterglow from centering yourself and breathing into your whole body. Ah well, at least I tried, right?
Right foot still just a little tender.
Total:
Pilates: 60 minutes
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Week 3: Day 7
Today I woke early and decided to head to yoga for 9:30am. With a different instructor, I found myself challenged with new poses. I loved it! Really refreshing to try new things.
Class was 75 minutes long and that was it for exercise today. My right foot/arch is still tender and I'll use that as my excuse for not running. :)
Total:
Snowshoeing: 150 minutes
Running: 144 minutes
Yoga: 75 minutes
Rest days: 1
Class was 75 minutes long and that was it for exercise today. My right foot/arch is still tender and I'll use that as my excuse for not running. :)
Total:
Snowshoeing: 150 minutes
Running: 144 minutes
Yoga: 75 minutes
Rest days: 1
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Week 3: Day 6
Another mild winter day in Colorado. Ben and I took advantage and both decided to run longer runs than usual. We started off together on some treacherous ice climbing uphill on the Shanahan trails - Ben nearly lost his life (OK exaggeration, but the fall was pretty scary) - and parted ways so that Ben finished the Shanahan big loop and I continued to the Mesa trail and then cut down to Bluestem and back home. Once Ben and I split off I had no more problems with ice which was a blessing because it was mostly down hill!
Along the way, Byrdie and I heard a very noisy animal in the dry creek bed and waited for a few minutes to see if it would show itself. We never did see the critter, but if I had to guess I would say it was a skunk (unless they hibernate?) so it's probably good that the stinky fella never showed face. After the animal encounter, the run was so so fun! Mostly downhill (and like I said, no ice) we moved and moved fast! What fun it is to bound from rock to rock pushing off of one and onto another. Did I mention this is one of my favorite runs?
The run was 57 minutes. A great run! My right arch is a little tender now, but I plan to stretch and ice... no injuries!
Total:
Snowshoeing: 150 minutes
Running: 144 minutes
Along the way, Byrdie and I heard a very noisy animal in the dry creek bed and waited for a few minutes to see if it would show itself. We never did see the critter, but if I had to guess I would say it was a skunk (unless they hibernate?) so it's probably good that the stinky fella never showed face. After the animal encounter, the run was so so fun! Mostly downhill (and like I said, no ice) we moved and moved fast! What fun it is to bound from rock to rock pushing off of one and onto another. Did I mention this is one of my favorite runs?
The run was 57 minutes. A great run! My right arch is a little tender now, but I plan to stretch and ice... no injuries!
Total:
Snowshoeing: 150 minutes
Running: 144 minutes
Friday, January 22, 2010
Week 3: Day 5
Friday, Friday, Friday! I had high hopes of making it out of work by 2:30 today (in at 6am again) to get to Boulder in time for a 3:30 yoga class. Once again, out of work an hour later than I had hoped. This week sure didn't seem like a short one!
Decided to head up to North Boulder to check out the trails. The temperature was around 50 degrees when I left home so I was very motivated to run! By the time I made it through town the winds had picked up considerably - icy cold wind! I ran 30 minutes and called it good. The trails were decent, but not worth the 20 minutes of downtown Boulder traffic or the fact that I have to keep Byrdie on a leash up there. I respect the leash laws, but when I have trails outside my door that don't require leashes, I favor them.
I have pretty much slacked this week. Not because I don't want to run, but because other areas of my life have been demanding more energy than usual. I'll adjust and settle in again.
Total:
Snowshoeing: 150 minutes
Running: 87 minutes
Decided to head up to North Boulder to check out the trails. The temperature was around 50 degrees when I left home so I was very motivated to run! By the time I made it through town the winds had picked up considerably - icy cold wind! I ran 30 minutes and called it good. The trails were decent, but not worth the 20 minutes of downtown Boulder traffic or the fact that I have to keep Byrdie on a leash up there. I respect the leash laws, but when I have trails outside my door that don't require leashes, I favor them.
I have pretty much slacked this week. Not because I don't want to run, but because other areas of my life have been demanding more energy than usual. I'll adjust and settle in again.
Total:
Snowshoeing: 150 minutes
Running: 87 minutes
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Week 3: Day 4
So tired from an early morning at work... tonight is date night and so instead of going to both yoga and running before our date, I just ran. And not far. :)
20 minutes. Meh!
Total:
Snowshoeing: 150 minutes
Running: 56 minutes
20 minutes. Meh!
Total:
Snowshoeing: 150 minutes
Running: 56 minutes
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Week 3: Day 3
Surprise surprise, today was another long day away from home. I managed to power through the frustration and fatigue to salvage a run. I started off with the intention of running the neighborhood route I've been taking lately but about five minutes in, contemplating my brooding mood, I changed course and ran around the lake and then to the high school track. Once I was on the track, I thought it would be a good time to pace myself so I can gauge the distance of my runs accurately. In three laps I found that I run about 8:30 pace which was my goal when I started training again (although looking at it now, my snobbish runner self can only scoff at the pace - why not faster?!). The last lap around the track I thought I would play around with picking up my pace. I didn't push, just picked up the tempo so that I was out of my comfort zone. I would say I was right around my lactate threshold. I was surprised to see that I ran 400m at 6:30 pace with little effort! Honestly I think I could keep this pace for a mile, maybe two if I really tried. What a pleasant surprise! I hope this means that when my base is back and I'm able to start some workouts I can put out some respectable times - whether in workouts or races.
Pretty pleased with the evening workout. I think I'll head down to the track every so often to run a few "pick up" laps. Should help my speed reappear from the depths of my muscles (Are you there, speed? It's me, Leah). Anyway, I ran 36 minutes tonight.
Tomorrow is date night, but since I've been working some long days, I hope to leave work a bit early to fit in another run and maybe use that yoga pass I bought last week? Need to get my money's worth out of it!
Total:
Snowshoeing: 150 minutes
Running: 36 minutes
Pretty pleased with the evening workout. I think I'll head down to the track every so often to run a few "pick up" laps. Should help my speed reappear from the depths of my muscles (Are you there, speed? It's me, Leah). Anyway, I ran 36 minutes tonight.
Tomorrow is date night, but since I've been working some long days, I hope to leave work a bit early to fit in another run and maybe use that yoga pass I bought last week? Need to get my money's worth out of it!
Total:
Snowshoeing: 150 minutes
Running: 36 minutes
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Week 3: Day 2
I would like to blame my lack of activity on work... which would be a likely excuse, however tonight I can't use work as an excuse. I did work late but I also chose to attend the live jazz night at The Laughing Goat (hey, Ben's friend Mark was playing!). I wish I could have snuck in a run before we went, but there's the whole eating and studying thing I have to balance with work and play.
Total:
Snowshoeing: 150 minutes
Total:
Snowshoeing: 150 minutes
Week 3: Day 1
Today was a snowshoeing adventure with Veronique, her friend Liz, Little Bull and Byrdie. After a few U-turns and stops on the way in, we managed to find the road to the East Portal trailhead and the James Peak Wilderness. When we left the trailhead the wind was up and the clouds were threatening precipitation. Luckily, the trail began in a thick wooded area so we were protected from the wind and cold temps. Over the course of the first hour, the front moved through rather quickly and left us with warmth and clear blue skies. We weren't sure if we had found the right trailhead because the lakes we planned to hike to were never listed on the trail signs, but the scenery was gorgeous and we really didn't care where we were heading.
Liz had knee surgery in the fall and is just now starting to increase her strenuous exercise. The trail was steep and as the trail website suggests, determined so we took it easy but hiked for about 1.5 hours up the mountain before turning back. We never reached a lake, but we did go beyond the junction listed in the trail guide, so we probably hiked about 2.5-3 miles in and 5-6 miles round trip.
I would consider this day a bit of a rest day, and that's OK. The day was meant for more than just activity and we all left the hike more than content. I have some gorgeous photos that I'll post in my other space soon. I need to remember this hike when spring arrives and the wildflowers are blooming.
Total:
Snowshoeing: 150 minutes
Liz had knee surgery in the fall and is just now starting to increase her strenuous exercise. The trail was steep and as the trail website suggests, determined so we took it easy but hiked for about 1.5 hours up the mountain before turning back. We never reached a lake, but we did go beyond the junction listed in the trail guide, so we probably hiked about 2.5-3 miles in and 5-6 miles round trip.
I would consider this day a bit of a rest day, and that's OK. The day was meant for more than just activity and we all left the hike more than content. I have some gorgeous photos that I'll post in my other space soon. I need to remember this hike when spring arrives and the wildflowers are blooming.
Total:
Snowshoeing: 150 minutes
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Week 2: Day 7
Ran around the Shanahan Ridge trails again today. Started off on the short loop (South first) and then headed up toward Fern Canyon before turning around and heading back down the mountain toward home. My body felt pretty good during the run but I was very slow when climbing toward Fern Canyon. This week has been in the 50's and the snow and ice has all melted to a slushy, slippery mess. I struggled with the trail conditions some, but I know that wasn't the only reason for my slow ascent. :)
My total time was 46 minutes. Now that I'm home and recovering, I can feel my muscles just aching from yoga yesterday! Good to be back. The 46 minutes makes that an average of 24 miles or so for the week. Two weeks ago I ran about the same mileage in less days. I'm OK with this number, though. I need to ease into my training so a few weeks of lower mileage is alright by me.
Total:
Run: 211 min
Yoga: 60 min
Rest days: 1
My total time was 46 minutes. Now that I'm home and recovering, I can feel my muscles just aching from yoga yesterday! Good to be back. The 46 minutes makes that an average of 24 miles or so for the week. Two weeks ago I ran about the same mileage in less days. I'm OK with this number, though. I need to ease into my training so a few weeks of lower mileage is alright by me.
Total:
Run: 211 min
Yoga: 60 min
Rest days: 1
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Week 2: Day 6
Yoga day! Yesterday I caught the deal of the day on groupon.com and took advantage. It was a month of unlimited yoga at a local studio for 1/3 of the price! Since I've been wanting to incorporate more strength into my training I thought this opportunity was a gift from some higher power!
The gift couldn't have arrived at a better time. I really needed this class today. First, I stopped off at my favorite coffee shop for a couple of hours of studying/people watching. Then I drove over to the yoga studio. The teacher was really talented and when I left the class I had energy just buzzing through my body. Even now, five hours after class I'm still feeling pretty good. Now if I could only feel this good about my surrounding environment.
Well, that will come.
Total:
Run: 165 minutes
Yoga: 60 minutes
The gift couldn't have arrived at a better time. I really needed this class today. First, I stopped off at my favorite coffee shop for a couple of hours of studying/people watching. Then I drove over to the yoga studio. The teacher was really talented and when I left the class I had energy just buzzing through my body. Even now, five hours after class I'm still feeling pretty good. Now if I could only feel this good about my surrounding environment.
Well, that will come.
Total:
Run: 165 minutes
Yoga: 60 minutes
Friday, January 15, 2010
Week 2: Day 5
Tonight Veronique and I ran around the Shanahan neighborhood. Like the last run around the area, we headed north on Lehigh and looped around to head back up Greenbriar and home. This was the first time I've seen my bestie since before Christmas! As time goes by and silly things like law school and work fill our days, we find fewer moments to spend together. We talked about the "good old days" when we all used to spend every minute of our lives together, whether that be class, work, practice, meets or just hanging out. Hell, we even lived together! These days, we're lucky to see each other once every couple of weeks despite living only a few miles apart. But, I digress.
This run was filled with conversations of the past, the present and hopes for the future - and it was exactly what we both needed. We even added a mile around the high school track because we just weren't ready to be finished running - or conversing - when that last mile came around. The pace was perfect, the air chilly and still and the company was happily welcomed! It feels so good to be back into a routine of sorts and to be running with friends and old teammates. Again, I need to map out this run, but with the extra mile around the track we made it 47 minutes.
Total:
Run: 165 minutes
This run was filled with conversations of the past, the present and hopes for the future - and it was exactly what we both needed. We even added a mile around the high school track because we just weren't ready to be finished running - or conversing - when that last mile came around. The pace was perfect, the air chilly and still and the company was happily welcomed! It feels so good to be back into a routine of sorts and to be running with friends and old teammates. Again, I need to map out this run, but with the extra mile around the track we made it 47 minutes.
Total:
Run: 165 minutes
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Week 2: Day 4
This morning Ben, Byrdie and I went for a short run near home. We stayed in our cozy bed until we could see the light peeking through the blinds letting us know there was enough light to run. Once again, I felt sleepy and sluggish during the first couple miles of the run but after 13 minutes I started to warm to the pace. We took the short, short Shanahan route (south first and then cut down the middle) and ran for 31 minutes.Yaktrax were needed again.
Despite feeling really cruddy when I start my am runs, I finish with gusto, ready to take on the day. I really enjoy having mornings off every so often so I can enjoy the morning sun, my morning coffee and a little extra time to prepare for the daily grind.
Total:
Run: 118 minutes
Despite feeling really cruddy when I start my am runs, I finish with gusto, ready to take on the day. I really enjoy having mornings off every so often so I can enjoy the morning sun, my morning coffee and a little extra time to prepare for the daily grind.
Total:
Run: 118 minutes
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Week 2: Day 3
Oh sweet sunshine, and warm Colorado air, how I love thee! I ran in the middle of my work day today around the Aurora/Stapleton area. With another long day on the docket I took advantage of a free hour at noon to enjoy this beautiful spring-like day. The weather was perfect for running however the trails were another story. Still we have lingering snow and ice and now, as an added pleasure, there's melting muddy, sticky icky trails lying beneath.
My run lasted just over 50 minutes and my pace ranged from easy to moderate, depending on the footing. Again, I'll map it when I find the time. I felt OK during this run - though my left knee (dead center) acted up a bit - nothing serious to report.
Total:
Run: 87 minutes
My run lasted just over 50 minutes and my pace ranged from easy to moderate, depending on the footing. Again, I'll map it when I find the time. I felt OK during this run - though my left knee (dead center) acted up a bit - nothing serious to report.
Here's a picture of the view on the way out:
Total:
Run: 87 minutes
Week 2: Day 2
No exercise. I'd like to rant and rave about how unplanned late afternoons at work are just downright unfair and throw my tediously planned schedule out of whack and therefore put me in a mood of moods... but I won't. :)
Monday, January 11, 2010
Week 2: Day 1
I left Denver around 4pm armed with a snack and some water so I was ready to run as soon as I arrived home. The temperature had been 50 degrees and the skies were brilliantly clear all day long. Most of the day I hoped that I could sneak out of work early enough to run before the fading light, but the days are quite long enough for me to make that happen yet - but they're close! I was out the door at dusk and hit the roads. I was surprised by how much snow and ice were left over even after a few days of warmer temperatures and bright sunshine.
My route started down Cripple Creek and then headed north on Lehigh. I took my usual neighborhood route around to meet back at Greenbriar and finally up the hill toward home. The route took 37 minutes - probably 4.5 miles. When I have a bit more time I will map it so I know for certain. Today, I felt awesome! I think my body was able to warm to the pace early as I started off downhill for a good mile or two. By the time I started climbing home, the run was over halfway finished. I found myself thinking "holy crap, I'm already up the hill!" I hadn't even noticed the climb - probably too busy thinking of what to say here. ;) I'm happy to report that I've made it through the initial pain of returning to training. Pat on the back deserved.
Some highlights:
- the feeling of being back in shape!!!
- the perfect 40 degrees
- the fading light behind the foothills
- the still air
- the man with a headlamp and the dog by his side, making laps around the high school track (can't say that I haven't considered it myself!)
- finishing my run knowing next time I will run longer (time) and further (distance) and knowing that's OK with my body
Total:
Run: 37 minutes
My route started down Cripple Creek and then headed north on Lehigh. I took my usual neighborhood route around to meet back at Greenbriar and finally up the hill toward home. The route took 37 minutes - probably 4.5 miles. When I have a bit more time I will map it so I know for certain. Today, I felt awesome! I think my body was able to warm to the pace early as I started off downhill for a good mile or two. By the time I started climbing home, the run was over halfway finished. I found myself thinking "holy crap, I'm already up the hill!" I hadn't even noticed the climb - probably too busy thinking of what to say here. ;) I'm happy to report that I've made it through the initial pain of returning to training. Pat on the back deserved.
Some highlights:
- the feeling of being back in shape!!!
- the perfect 40 degrees
- the fading light behind the foothills
- the still air
- the man with a headlamp and the dog by his side, making laps around the high school track (can't say that I haven't considered it myself!)
- finishing my run knowing next time I will run longer (time) and further (distance) and knowing that's OK with my body
Total:
Run: 37 minutes
Week 1: Day 7
Today I returned home from the Springs around 1pm. The day was warm and beautiful but I chose to stay inside instead of enjoying the great outdoors because the Packers were playing. :) I biked for 45 minutes on the trainer. This time I did some intervals (3 minutes with a HR around 180-190) to break up the monotony. Boy am I out of shape, but still, it really does feel good to pour sweat once in a while.
Originally when I started this blog I had myself convinced that it would be a running diary - I mean the name of the url is a dead giveaway of my expectations. I guess that's my "collegiate athlete" side coming out assuming that my life is all about running. Over the last few years, I have evolved, in a sense, and so has my training. And for that change, I am a much healthier person! No longer do I have those seasonal colds and yearly strep cases or that blasted anemia problem. In fact, I'm rarely sick enough to even miss a day or two of work each year! I have to admit that despite the fact that I can see I'm no longer the "runner" I used to be as I've incorporated different forms of activity into my life, I have a hard time letting myself be OK with that truth. I loved having that label and I still want to be considered part of that runner crowd. I guess this is the reason why I stopped racing. I chose not to devote my life to training (running) and my prideful self just won't allow me to race when I'm not in true racing form. I know that this is something I need to change. What am I trying to prove? Who am I trying to prove it to? Deep down I know these answers and the tough part is moving past them. I will always see myself as a runner-at-heart, but there is so much more out there that I love doing and chose to experience.
So in working on myself in all fashions - physically, mentally, emotionally - I'll use this blog to record my training. Any training. And I'll learn to be happy with my accomplishments. I'm switching my "Total" to minutes of activity rather than miles. I've never logged my activity by minutes since we used mileage in college, so maybe it will help to ease me into accepting my training as good enough.
This week:
Running: 75 minutes
Biking: 85 minutes
Hiking: 240 minutes
Rest days: 2
Originally when I started this blog I had myself convinced that it would be a running diary - I mean the name of the url is a dead giveaway of my expectations. I guess that's my "collegiate athlete" side coming out assuming that my life is all about running. Over the last few years, I have evolved, in a sense, and so has my training. And for that change, I am a much healthier person! No longer do I have those seasonal colds and yearly strep cases or that blasted anemia problem. In fact, I'm rarely sick enough to even miss a day or two of work each year! I have to admit that despite the fact that I can see I'm no longer the "runner" I used to be as I've incorporated different forms of activity into my life, I have a hard time letting myself be OK with that truth. I loved having that label and I still want to be considered part of that runner crowd. I guess this is the reason why I stopped racing. I chose not to devote my life to training (running) and my prideful self just won't allow me to race when I'm not in true racing form. I know that this is something I need to change. What am I trying to prove? Who am I trying to prove it to? Deep down I know these answers and the tough part is moving past them. I will always see myself as a runner-at-heart, but there is so much more out there that I love doing and chose to experience.
So in working on myself in all fashions - physically, mentally, emotionally - I'll use this blog to record my training. Any training. And I'll learn to be happy with my accomplishments. I'm switching my "Total" to minutes of activity rather than miles. I've never logged my activity by minutes since we used mileage in college, so maybe it will help to ease me into accepting my training as good enough.
This week:
Running: 75 minutes
Biking: 85 minutes
Hiking: 240 minutes
Rest days: 2
Week 1: Day 6
Today I drove down to the Springs to see my long-time friend Marci. She was in town visiting her brother, Brian and his wife, Darci. We all took a 4-hour hike up to Jones Park which was about six miles round-trip. We actually did some scrambling up a scree field as we wandered slightly off the trail because of the snow-cover. The trails were moderately challenging and I did find myself breathless once in a while so I know that I did get my heart rate up at some points.
I didn't run today - chose this hike as my form of exercise today instead. The hike was beautiful and really fun and I'll post a few pictures from the trip in my other space. There's nothing like spending time with friends who have known you for your entire life. So much history, such a real, quality friendship. What a great chance to reconnect!
I didn't run today - chose this hike as my form of exercise today instead. The hike was beautiful and really fun and I'll post a few pictures from the trip in my other space. There's nothing like spending time with friends who have known you for your entire life. So much history, such a real, quality friendship. What a great chance to reconnect!
Week 1: Day 5
So I was sort of lazy today... and by lazy, I mean I left the house at 5am and returned at 7pm so I chose not to exercise when I got home. This was probably a bad thing for my training, but this year I'm trying to keep my life in balance as much as possible and so if I miss a day of training in order to avoid the stress and added fatigue (which in the end is counter-productive) of forcing myself to run just to put the miles in the "bank", I'm okay with it.
Instead, I cooked dinner and had some wine with B. A relaxing evening!
Instead, I cooked dinner and had some wine with B. A relaxing evening!
Friday, January 8, 2010
Week 1: Day 4
Well, you can't blame me for not trying. I started off on a run after work but unfortunately the sub-zero temperature got the best of me. First of all, Byrdie's jacket was in Ben's car and after about 5 minutes I realized she really needed the thing. Second of all, when I headed back home to drop her off, I saw that after 10 minutes outside my cheeks were already red and wind burned. I pulled out the alumni card... :)
Used Ben's trainer for the first time. Since I was short on time, I used his bike and biking shoes. I actually had a great little workout! I biked for about 40 minutes and my heart rate averaged 165-180 almost the entire time. I probably exercised at a higher % max than I do while running. I turned on a show I've never seen, but read about often on my Twitter: Glee. It's this fun new show about a Glee Club at a high school in Ohio. I actually really enjoyed the episode - it was almost like a musical! The bike workout was a nice change of pace and I finished dripping sweat!
I hear today (because I'm posting this a day late) should be in the 30's. I can handle 30 degrees. Back out to run?
Used Ben's trainer for the first time. Since I was short on time, I used his bike and biking shoes. I actually had a great little workout! I biked for about 40 minutes and my heart rate averaged 165-180 almost the entire time. I probably exercised at a higher % max than I do while running. I turned on a show I've never seen, but read about often on my Twitter: Glee. It's this fun new show about a Glee Club at a high school in Ohio. I actually really enjoyed the episode - it was almost like a musical! The bike workout was a nice change of pace and I finished dripping sweat!
I hear today (because I'm posting this a day late) should be in the 30's. I can handle 30 degrees. Back out to run?
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Week 1: Day 3
A day off! It's really too bad though. I found this little gem in the box with my textbook that arrived today. My very own blaze orange! And what better a day to wear it than today while the snow falls and the temperatures sit in the single digits.
Ah well, there's always tomorrow.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Week 1: Day 2
This morning I set out for a run around 8am - a little later than planned. As I noted yesterday, my goal was to run a little longer this morning since I took it easy yesterday. I chose to run my favorite route near the house which is an hour run. When I began the first hill climb (only about 10 minutes into the run since I chose to do the route "backwards") I again realized I am not quite ready for hills. I've been through this building up from nothing thing once before and it ended badly as I injured myself and actually have never quite recovered from the foot injury. Needless to say, I'd really like to avoid injuring myself again.
So, when I changed course (all the way back down the hill cursing myself - is this really a physical barrier or is it just mental?) I decided I was being too hard on myself for cutting my run short. Along the way, I concluded that running short (3-6 miles) consistently with one longer run (7+ miles) each week, for now, is exactly what I should be doing. I may have motivation issues at some point, but now when I'm in that tenuous stage of training where any wrong move could mean a lasting injury, I do not need to preoccupy myself with worries of not doing enough. I need to remember my slow and steady mindset and keep myself there for awhile. Patience.
Overall, I had a good run. Despite how I feel during hill climbs, I know this fatigue will only last another week or two before I start to gain my climbing strength back. This morning my legs were recovered and no longer sore, which is a good feeling. The weather was warm and I had my blue skies (with a few clouds dotting here and there). I ran for 34 minutes and called it good. I'm going to say it was about 4 miles. Really, the run was quite enjoyable! Tomorrow we are forecast to have snow again and cold temps for most of the work week. I'm happy that I was able to enjoy the warm weather while it was here.
Total: 7.5 miles
So, when I changed course (all the way back down the hill cursing myself - is this really a physical barrier or is it just mental?) I decided I was being too hard on myself for cutting my run short. Along the way, I concluded that running short (3-6 miles) consistently with one longer run (7+ miles) each week, for now, is exactly what I should be doing. I may have motivation issues at some point, but now when I'm in that tenuous stage of training where any wrong move could mean a lasting injury, I do not need to preoccupy myself with worries of not doing enough. I need to remember my slow and steady mindset and keep myself there for awhile. Patience.
Overall, I had a good run. Despite how I feel during hill climbs, I know this fatigue will only last another week or two before I start to gain my climbing strength back. This morning my legs were recovered and no longer sore, which is a good feeling. The weather was warm and I had my blue skies (with a few clouds dotting here and there). I ran for 34 minutes and called it good. I'm going to say it was about 4 miles. Really, the run was quite enjoyable! Tomorrow we are forecast to have snow again and cold temps for most of the work week. I'm happy that I was able to enjoy the warm weather while it was here.
Total: 7.5 miles
Monday, January 4, 2010
Week 1: Day 1
I had a difficult time getting myself out the door today. Waking at 4:30am for work and "resting" on the couch for an hour after work didn't help my motivation (resting meaning watching my guilty pleasure shows on netflix). Alas, thanks to Byrdie's ceaseless whining once I pulled out my running gear, I made it out for an easy 30 minutes. I don't have a specific route to list here - I mostly bumbled around the trails and then through the neighborhood just taking it easy and avoiding hills so that I could recover. I started off feeling so-so which isn't hard to imagine considering how I was feeling before I left the house but after 15 minutes the run improved and I fell into my usual rhythm.
A short run was all I wanted to do today since I ran a bit longer yesterday. Tomorrow I work late and I have the morning free which means I can take the time for another long run. I'm looking forward to the am run since most mornings there's blue skies and sunshine around here. Such an amazing, refreshing feeling!
Some highlights of my run today:
the complete randomness of my route
Byrdie barreling down the trail carrying the biggest stick (log?) she could find
the hues of pink, purple and orange in the east
the blue sky and purple and orange clouds in the west
the giant houses along my neighborhood route - houses I don't often see since I'm usually on trails in the daylight
the still air - the type you only feel at dusk
Total: 3.5 miles (probably an underestimation, but better than overestimating)
A short run was all I wanted to do today since I ran a bit longer yesterday. Tomorrow I work late and I have the morning free which means I can take the time for another long run. I'm looking forward to the am run since most mornings there's blue skies and sunshine around here. Such an amazing, refreshing feeling!
Some highlights of my run today:
the complete randomness of my route
Byrdie barreling down the trail carrying the biggest stick (log?) she could find
the hues of pink, purple and orange in the east
the blue sky and purple and orange clouds in the west
the giant houses along my neighborhood route - houses I don't often see since I'm usually on trails in the daylight
the still air - the type you only feel at dusk
Total: 3.5 miles (probably an underestimation, but better than overestimating)
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Day 3: 01/03/10
Today I went for a longish run since yesterday was a short day. Byrdie and I drove over to the South side of Marshall Mesa and started off from the trailhead on 93. The weather was chilly and gray and there weren't many people on the trails. I started off feeling pretty good. My hamstrings are still tight and a little sore today, but that's to be expected. About 3 miles into the run, I started to feel sluggish. The trails were slightly snow-covered and very muddy. The mud was a lot like soft clay, so it really stuck to my shoes which made them feel heavy and probably contributed to the way I felt. I pushed through and eventually my run improved. I had a pretty significant climb between miles 4 and 5 and I didn't have any problems with keeping my pace. I finished out the run on Dowdy Draw running past the Flatirons Vista trailhead and back across 93 to the Marshall Mesa trailhead. Once I climbed ot of the valley, the wind picked up and the snow flakes began to fall. I wished I had a hat!
Overall, not a great run in terms of how I felt, but I made it through without stopping. Well, I did stop to take a couple of photos with my iphone... I'll post those in my other spot. A respectable 6.5 miles in the books. Took me about 56 minutes which means I averaged just under 9 minute pace. I'm really not sure how this would convert on flat roads, but I'm not really concerned at this point. Slow and steady... :)
Total: 15 miles - Looking back on the week of running, I probably ran about 23 miles. Again, slow and steady climb. :)
View my route!
Overall, not a great run in terms of how I felt, but I made it through without stopping. Well, I did stop to take a couple of photos with my iphone... I'll post those in my other spot. A respectable 6.5 miles in the books. Took me about 56 minutes which means I averaged just under 9 minute pace. I'm really not sure how this would convert on flat roads, but I'm not really concerned at this point. Slow and steady... :)
Total: 15 miles - Looking back on the week of running, I probably ran about 23 miles. Again, slow and steady climb. :)
View my route!
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Day 2: 01/02/10
Today Ben and I ran the short Shanahan loop - about 3.5 miles. We are having a few people over to play Rockband tonight, so we spent most of the day preparing for the party and ran out of time for a long run. My legs were a little sore today so I was alright with a short run. Our pace was very easy - 30 minutes.
Tomorrow I'll run a bit longer.
Total: 8.5 miles
Tomorrow I'll run a bit longer.
Total: 8.5 miles
Friday, January 1, 2010
Day 1: 01/01/2010
Over the last few months my training as come to a screeching hault. For a number of reasons, I found myself going days and days without exercise but things have settled down and I can afford more time for training. I decided to take an online course this semester to give myself more time for the things I want to be doing - running, hiking, yoga, etc. Night class and a busy work schedule made it very difficult for me to find enough time for training. I think this online course (and not to mention how much easier the course will be - genetics vs. organic chemistry) is the perfect solution. So this blog is really a diary of my journey back to fitness!
It was a beautiful, blue sky day in Boulder today. I checked the weather early and saw that the temperature would reach mid-40's by 2pm and decided to wait to exercise. Ben and I thought about taking a hike today, but he's not feeling well and is a bit sluggish so I went for a run instead. I chose to run part of the Bluestem trail (the whole trail is about 8 miles from home). I walked to the trailhead near the house and started off. Originally, I left with the intention of running up Bluestem to the Mesa trail and back around to the Shanahan loop, but once I started the climb to the base of the foothills, I realized that it would be silly of me to jump into a hill-climb run this early in the game. I'm looking to avoid injuries so instead I continued on Bluestem. I ran for 41 minutes and decided that was enough for the day. I maintained a good pace the whole way through. My goal for increasing my training is to keep a pace between 8-9 minute-miles and slowly build up my weekly miles. Of course, I have to consider that a lot of my runs have a significant hill climb in them, so I'll keep that in mind if I don't hit my intended pace. On this run I was slowed a bit by the snow and ice. I used yaktrax, though which helped some.
I plan to run every day this weekend, and if I can average about 5 miles every day I'll be happy.
Total: ~5 miles View my run
I'll start a weekly mileage count next week.
It was a beautiful, blue sky day in Boulder today. I checked the weather early and saw that the temperature would reach mid-40's by 2pm and decided to wait to exercise. Ben and I thought about taking a hike today, but he's not feeling well and is a bit sluggish so I went for a run instead. I chose to run part of the Bluestem trail (the whole trail is about 8 miles from home). I walked to the trailhead near the house and started off. Originally, I left with the intention of running up Bluestem to the Mesa trail and back around to the Shanahan loop, but once I started the climb to the base of the foothills, I realized that it would be silly of me to jump into a hill-climb run this early in the game. I'm looking to avoid injuries so instead I continued on Bluestem. I ran for 41 minutes and decided that was enough for the day. I maintained a good pace the whole way through. My goal for increasing my training is to keep a pace between 8-9 minute-miles and slowly build up my weekly miles. Of course, I have to consider that a lot of my runs have a significant hill climb in them, so I'll keep that in mind if I don't hit my intended pace. On this run I was slowed a bit by the snow and ice. I used yaktrax, though which helped some.
I plan to run every day this weekend, and if I can average about 5 miles every day I'll be happy.
Total: ~5 miles View my run
I'll start a weekly mileage count next week.
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