Tuesday, March 26, 2013
I don't get them or they don't get me...
I am 42 years old and although I am not perfect, I love the gifts that God has bestowed. I can run and jump with my track athletes even though it may take a few days to recover. I often wonder why or how I find running, sprinting and jumping so much fun. And then I ask, doesn't everyone think it is fun? This is what I don't get. How can a person not find human movement so intriguing? Have you ever seen a picture of a long or triple jumper in mid-flight? It is incredibly beautiful.
Or the feeling of running effortlessly? No time or distance goal, just the thrill of running. How can someone not love this feeling? Human power defined, no tools or gimmicks. It's beauty in motion. I'm not talking world record motion, just your personal best motion. I think in those times of motion and fluidity, God speaks to us in the silence of repetition, foot placement after foot placement.
For me, it's peaceful and fierce altogether. Creating power to the ground with each foot strike is artistry. I'm not sure why I feel this way, but I love that I do and thank God each time I strap on my shoes. IF you are the least bit intrigued by this, then I'm glad that I can share it with you. If you are not, you don't know what you are missing and I encourage you to take one step at a time and listen to what God says to you in-between your stride. You'll connect with yourself, the earth and Spirit like never before. Amen!
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Hey Hey Hey!
Been living the life this summer and getting into swimming and biking and running of course. My body loves not feeling so beat up since my running mileage has decreased. However, my fitness level is still the same, so I think.
Still loving my new C-dale bike. I love it when I'm pressed for time and I can just go hammer some nice hill repeats on my bike and feel no residual aches and pains afterward. My longest swim is only 1.2 miles but I'm very happy with that especially since I have the ugliest and most inefficient swim stroke around. The only reason I can even swim that far is because of my fitness level. I'll keep working on it. At times I'll do a duathlon for my workout. The last one was a 15.6 mile ride in just over 50 minutes and a 5k run in just over 23 minutes. Burned a lot of calories and had some fun! Kendra and I are actually signed up for our first tri which happens Sept. 5th! We're excited and it is nothing major at all. It's a .6 mile swim, 15 mile ride and 5k run...or something like that.
We also bought a new to us boat so we've been spending some time on the water this summer.
Anyway, wish us luck on our first tri and I'll report back:)
In health!
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Running and biking!
Lately my running has been beating me up. Not during the run, just after. Regardless of how much I foam roll and stretch, the next few days are brutal. It doesn't matter whether I go 5 miles or 15...the body is just wrecked afterward.
That being said I just purchased a great new road bike. It's a Cannondale 6 Carbon 5. I researched for a straight month, lost many, many auctions on Ebay; and realized that the best thing for me to do was to buy new. If anyone reads this and is also considering a new bike, just know that I looked very heavily at Specialized, Trek, Look, Felt, and Cannondale. You can not go wrong with any of their all-carbon bikes. I only went with Cannondale because I was able to get the best deal.
I rode it today at lunch time and crammed in about 15-20 miles. With a carbon frame, this bike is primed for climbing and just plain GO-ing! It's a blast, and I don't feel beat up, but feel like I got a good workout. Here are some pics of the new ride. Hope you're all healthy!
Monday, March 16, 2009
Shamrockin' Half Marathon - Sactown, CA.
This was the first time running this race. I wasn't so sure about the course because it looked a little "crazy." It was, but I'll get to that later.
First off, thank God that I am healthy! I was able to stay in relative running shape after the CIM, so that I didn't really train much for this run. I got in only two 10+ mile runs, maybe a handful of single digit runs and one speed workout since the New Year. However, I've been hitting my gym workouts (legs in particular) pretty hard and that has definitely helped me.
The funny thing is that I kind of forgot about this run...I actually made plans to go to a friend's house on Sunday and pick up a bunch of keystone block for a retaining wall. Thursday before the run is when I realized that I couldn't go over there because I was running. It's not that I truly forgot about the run, I guess my anxiety level was non-existent...this is an example of when the mental aspect of running can definitely do wonders for your psyche. I was running with only one goal...finish below 1:40 so that I could then have a humongous burger afterward! On this day, it was as simple and as fun as that!
We left the house at 6:40am with our core group of runners/friends. We knew we were cutting it close. As we got close to Raley Field, the traffic was crazy. Kendra and I actually jumped out of the car to try to get a light warm-up and make a bathroom run. I got to the 1:30 pace group two minutes before the gun. Talk about close.
The first mile was whacked! The pacer took the group out at 6:32! Which is WAY too fast! I was slightly annoyed and verbally asked, "Are we banking time?" I dropped my pace and fell behind the group. Mile two was at 7:07, a little better.
I was getting into groove and the course seemed to be straight forward. The course map looked as though the course zig-zagged over each other...which it did but thankfully I was close enough to the beginning that I wasn't within a large group of people.
My splits were pretty tame as was this part of the run:
Mile 3 - 7:06
Mile 4 - 7
Mile 5 - 7:13
I told myself to hold a low 7s pace at least through 10 miles and then give all I could for the last 5k. However at mile 6 is when I started to feel the 1.5 inch wide x 2 inch long blisters on the outside bottom of both feet. I then cursed myself for not wearing the socks I should have worn. I guess this would be a negative aspect of "kind of forgetting" about the run! ;).
I was able to stay relatively focused and pushed hard through the mid-point.
Mile 6 - 6:58
Mile 7 - 6:56
It was also at this point when I formally decided that anything near 1:30 would not happen...I was totally ok with it too! I just wanted to hold as close to that 7 minute per mark...
Mile 8 - 7:10
I started to have fun with the crowd because I was beginning to get tired. They were great! I loved how my name was on my race bib! I heard, "GO LEE!" on several occasions and it helped me.
Mile 9 - 7:40
Mile 10 - 7:44 (Splits speak for themselves!)
As I made the turn heading into mile 10, on the top of the river bank, I got kicked in the face by a nice headwind...considering I was already feeling tired, I had to really concentrate and grind for for the next two miles. I told myself, "Just get to mile 12 and you'll be home...1.1 after that and you'll be golden." After getting passed and then nearly spit upon, I decided to mark the guy that inadvertently spit in my direction. I got on his right shoulder and drafted behind him for about 1/4 mile. I think I annoyed him but he should have spit in front of him and not to the side of him...headwind or not. He darted hard left so as to expose me to the wind again. I didn't care...as I was able to hit a good rhythm...until...
Mile 11 - 7:29
Heading into M12, I'm feeling good...but I sense the course getting a little tight and I see an increase in cross-traffic, human and cars. As I am heading toward a slight uphill, this elderly lady and her walking shopping cart attempt to cross from my right to my left. I'm thinking, "Oh no she is not trying to walk across the course without an escort!" (which there was one only about 30 feet down the road from where she was). After playing "Frogger" with the first lane of runners heading in the opposite direction of me, she now ventures onto my side of the course. She doesn't even look...and mind you I am at full gate (or as full as one can be at M12) with a nice rhythm. I yell, "Come on! Damn!" Which I now feel bad about yelling. However at that time I was not going to alter my line. I end up hitting her shopping cart with both of my hands so as to push it/explode it of the way. I am not sure what happened to her or the cart as I couldn't even turn around because I was too darn tired and too focused on finishing. I hope she is ok, I'm sure she was because no one who finished behind me said anything to me about it. So "Frogger" didn't make it across my side... or at least not with me:)
Mile 12 - 7:22 (not bad after sidestepping said cart and little old lady:))
Mentally, I am done! I am just telling myself to hold on for the last 1.1 miles...which is pretty much what I did. I managed to find a kick in the last .1 - .2 miles and passed some people. I was going to do my Usain Bolt finish but realized that there were way too many people around and I didn't want them to feel like I was trivializing their finish. I crossed the line....DONE!
Mile 13.1 - 8:31 (told you I was hanging on!!)
I loved the finish inside of Raley Field. For that alone, I would consider running this race again. But I definitely didn't like the cross-traffic in the last 5k.
Total time: 1:34.57
Splits: 7:15 per
I was nowhere near my PR but I am very happy to have finished just under 1:35.
I'll finish as I started...Thank you God for my health and for allowing me to finish in a relatively good time without as much training as in the past. I'm looking forward to my next race! And by the way, the big burger was awesome! and so was the cheesecake:)
First off, thank God that I am healthy! I was able to stay in relative running shape after the CIM, so that I didn't really train much for this run. I got in only two 10+ mile runs, maybe a handful of single digit runs and one speed workout since the New Year. However, I've been hitting my gym workouts (legs in particular) pretty hard and that has definitely helped me.
The funny thing is that I kind of forgot about this run...I actually made plans to go to a friend's house on Sunday and pick up a bunch of keystone block for a retaining wall. Thursday before the run is when I realized that I couldn't go over there because I was running. It's not that I truly forgot about the run, I guess my anxiety level was non-existent...this is an example of when the mental aspect of running can definitely do wonders for your psyche. I was running with only one goal...finish below 1:40 so that I could then have a humongous burger afterward! On this day, it was as simple and as fun as that!
We left the house at 6:40am with our core group of runners/friends. We knew we were cutting it close. As we got close to Raley Field, the traffic was crazy. Kendra and I actually jumped out of the car to try to get a light warm-up and make a bathroom run. I got to the 1:30 pace group two minutes before the gun. Talk about close.
The first mile was whacked! The pacer took the group out at 6:32! Which is WAY too fast! I was slightly annoyed and verbally asked, "Are we banking time?" I dropped my pace and fell behind the group. Mile two was at 7:07, a little better.
I was getting into groove and the course seemed to be straight forward. The course map looked as though the course zig-zagged over each other...which it did but thankfully I was close enough to the beginning that I wasn't within a large group of people.
My splits were pretty tame as was this part of the run:
Mile 3 - 7:06
Mile 4 - 7
Mile 5 - 7:13
I told myself to hold a low 7s pace at least through 10 miles and then give all I could for the last 5k. However at mile 6 is when I started to feel the 1.5 inch wide x 2 inch long blisters on the outside bottom of both feet. I then cursed myself for not wearing the socks I should have worn. I guess this would be a negative aspect of "kind of forgetting" about the run! ;).
I was able to stay relatively focused and pushed hard through the mid-point.
Mile 6 - 6:58
Mile 7 - 6:56
It was also at this point when I formally decided that anything near 1:30 would not happen...I was totally ok with it too! I just wanted to hold as close to that 7 minute per mark...
Mile 8 - 7:10
I started to have fun with the crowd because I was beginning to get tired. They were great! I loved how my name was on my race bib! I heard, "GO LEE!" on several occasions and it helped me.
Mile 9 - 7:40
Mile 10 - 7:44 (Splits speak for themselves!)
As I made the turn heading into mile 10, on the top of the river bank, I got kicked in the face by a nice headwind...considering I was already feeling tired, I had to really concentrate and grind for for the next two miles. I told myself, "Just get to mile 12 and you'll be home...1.1 after that and you'll be golden." After getting passed and then nearly spit upon, I decided to mark the guy that inadvertently spit in my direction. I got on his right shoulder and drafted behind him for about 1/4 mile. I think I annoyed him but he should have spit in front of him and not to the side of him...headwind or not. He darted hard left so as to expose me to the wind again. I didn't care...as I was able to hit a good rhythm...until...
Mile 11 - 7:29
Heading into M12, I'm feeling good...but I sense the course getting a little tight and I see an increase in cross-traffic, human and cars. As I am heading toward a slight uphill, this elderly lady and her walking shopping cart attempt to cross from my right to my left. I'm thinking, "Oh no she is not trying to walk across the course without an escort!" (which there was one only about 30 feet down the road from where she was). After playing "Frogger" with the first lane of runners heading in the opposite direction of me, she now ventures onto my side of the course. She doesn't even look...and mind you I am at full gate (or as full as one can be at M12) with a nice rhythm. I yell, "Come on! Damn!" Which I now feel bad about yelling. However at that time I was not going to alter my line. I end up hitting her shopping cart with both of my hands so as to push it/explode it of the way. I am not sure what happened to her or the cart as I couldn't even turn around because I was too darn tired and too focused on finishing. I hope she is ok, I'm sure she was because no one who finished behind me said anything to me about it. So "Frogger" didn't make it across my side... or at least not with me:)
Mile 12 - 7:22 (not bad after sidestepping said cart and little old lady:))
Mentally, I am done! I am just telling myself to hold on for the last 1.1 miles...which is pretty much what I did. I managed to find a kick in the last .1 - .2 miles and passed some people. I was going to do my Usain Bolt finish but realized that there were way too many people around and I didn't want them to feel like I was trivializing their finish. I crossed the line....DONE!
Mile 13.1 - 8:31 (told you I was hanging on!!)
I loved the finish inside of Raley Field. For that alone, I would consider running this race again. But I definitely didn't like the cross-traffic in the last 5k.
Total time: 1:34.57
Splits: 7:15 per
I was nowhere near my PR but I am very happy to have finished just under 1:35.
I'll finish as I started...Thank you God for my health and for allowing me to finish in a relatively good time without as much training as in the past. I'm looking forward to my next race! And by the way, the big burger was awesome! and so was the cheesecake:)
Thursday, January 8, 2009
It's 2009...
And I've only run sparingly:) I was tinkering with the fact that I would run the Napa Valley Marathon in March, but after a handful of runs in December, my body was telling me to take it easy.
My pace was fine but my body felt as if I ran more than double the mileage I truly did. Not so good:). I've been hitting my gym workouts pretty hard to re-stoke the competitive fire within and I am sure I'll be raring to hit the road shortly. I do plan on running the Shamrock Half in March. Besides, I'm a wimp when it comes to cold weather...and it has been cold! Or maybe that is just an excuse?!?!
Hope you are all feeling healthy and happy! One step at a time...
My pace was fine but my body felt as if I ran more than double the mileage I truly did. Not so good:). I've been hitting my gym workouts pretty hard to re-stoke the competitive fire within and I am sure I'll be raring to hit the road shortly. I do plan on running the Shamrock Half in March. Besides, I'm a wimp when it comes to cold weather...and it has been cold! Or maybe that is just an excuse?!?!
Hope you are all feeling healthy and happy! One step at a time...
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
CIM 2008 Race Report
The 2008 California International Marathon has come and gone. It was definitely a great race. The weather really couldn't have been any better, maybe just a little warmer, but really it was a perfect day for a run.
The morning started early, around 3am for me...it was the anxiety I guess:). We carpooled to the start line with our friends Jeff Black and Troy Doehrer. This was Troy's and Kendra's first marathon, and Jeff was splitting the race with his wife Michelle. Troy's wife Kristy was also running the last half with him.
We got to the start line at about 6:10 a.m. and it was already packed. After a nice warm-up and requisite stop to the port-a-potty, we were ready. If you've never run a marathon before, it is pretty much a free-for-all when it comes to using the bathroom. I told Troy and Jeff don't be surprised to see many runners, men and women alike, just squat in the bushes, behind a rock, up against a tree and do what they do. Alas, I was prophetic.
I took off with the 3:10 pace group with a strategy to run in between them and the 3:15 pace group. My splits ranged from 7:22-7:29 per mile. I was exactly where I needed to be. The crowds were great at every juncture where you needed support.
At mile 18 things turned, literally, in my stomach. I wasn’t able to drink water or supplements, nor eat any Gu for fear of leaving it on the course. I’m not sure what caused it because I alternated H2O and sports drink at each interval and I ate my Gu pretty much on schedule, with the exception of missing one by 15 minutes.
At mile 21, I felt my pace become more challenging to hold. The 3:15 group hadn’t caught me yet but I knew they were close. At mile 22 is when I ran out of gas. 3:15 caught me shortly thereafter as I struggled. I walked for about 200 meters and then started to “run” again…if you call a +10 minute split running. I ran to mile 23 and then walked again for probably at least another 200 meters. I again started to run and committed to do so all the way to the finish.
Each step was increasingly difficult. The pain was shooting through my quads but I just kept praying to God to allow me to take one more step. I tried to get a Gu down somewhere between 23 and 24, but could only take one taste before making me feel worse. Getting through the next 3 miles was one of the most difficult things I have ever done. I kept thinking about the competitors I’ve seen in races where they are collapsing everywhere, losing bodily functions and still fighting to cross the line, even at a crawl. I just asked God to not let that happen to me. As I rounded the final corner headed to the finish shoot, I saw my two daughters and Kendra’s parents. Thank God, because just seeing my two little angels’ faces was enough for me to get me across the line. 3:39, a new PR.
It was over, thank God.
I was able to see Kendra and my sister finish. Kendra kicked some serious butt! She finished her first marathon in 3:59! Way to break the 4-hour mark! My sister just ran for fun since she is still nursing a major injury. She ran in costume and she finished in 3:58, which is incredible considering what she is going through. She did not suffer any additional damage which was great.
Troy finished in 4:30; and both Jeff and Michelle PRd in their half-marathon times.
Here are some pics from race day, enjoy! Thanks again for all your kind words, thoughts and prayers! Keep on running:D
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Just running
The running is going very well...thank you God! I hammered out an almost 21-miler last Sunday. I averaged 8:05 splits in hills which I am happy about. My first run after the long run on Sunday was Tuesday. It was supposed to be an easy-paced run of 7 miles, no faster than 8:08. I felt great and decided to play with the gas peddle a little bit. I averaged 6:51 splits. Yowza. I was very surprised especially considering that I ran 21 miles only two days before.
I've got two more 20+ milers before the CIM and God willing I will remain healthy.
Speaking of healthy, I'm not sure how many check this blog...likely only a few, but if you do happen to stumble upon it, please say a little prayer for my sister Glorybelle. Nothing major...just a little prayer on having her ankle heal quickly so she can get back on the road. While I am at it, add a little prayer for my other sister Maxe who just moved from the house she "thought" she sold, only for the buyer to back out! Maxe, we pray for you often, just wanted you to know!!
Just for fun, a group of friends of ours asked Kendra and I to partake in a Nike+ running challenge. We both said, "Sure, why not..." knowing that we'd be ramping mileage for the CIM. Anyway...it's been fun especially seeing the reactions of the group when they see these double digit runs downloading into the challenge log. It's pretty close so far. The challenge ends on November 10th.
Also mostly everyone that ran the San Jose RnR Half with us have signed up to run the CIM. Some are splitting the marathon (relay) and others are running the full. I am very excited to see how our friends have taken to running in road races! They really enjoyed the RnR and I have no doubt that they will enjoy the CIM.
Here are some of my goofy pics from the RnR. As I finished the race I leaned at the "tape" in honor of Usain Bolt. As GB said it, I am a "Goofball!" No lying there.
Enjoy, run strong and may God give you the strength to take another step!
Sunday, October 5, 2008
San Jose Rock and Roll Half!
First off, I haven’t downloaded any pics yet of the San Jose Rock and Roll Half Marathon, so I’ll add those later.
A group of six of us drove down to San Jose to meet up with two other friends/runners and my sister GB. This was the first half-marathon for 5 in the group so the excitement and nervousness level was high, but good.
Upon arrival, we met up with one of my old high school friends Jon Mikelonis. I hadn’t seen Jon in about 15 years. I prodded him to run this race. He was managing to run no more than 3-4 miles maximum just a few months ago, and not only did he finish his first 13.1 miler, but he did it in a time of 1hr 44mins. That is a great time, first-timer or not, for a half! I talked with Jon after and he sounded fresh, thankful and proud, especially since his wife and two young sons got to see him cross the line! I am trying to get him to go the full 26.2 miles in December at the CIM. If you know Jon, please tell him congrats. It was great seeing you Jon and meeting your beautiful family. Two other friends from high school also ran the race, Andrew Adamson and Dave Pernez. Both of those guys did great…and hats off to Andrew for deciding to run only a few days prior.
For Kendra, I and GB, this run was in the middle of our training for the CIM. Thankfully we all finished, even with questionable health…which I’ll explain in a few, but first, Kendra did great. Her running has also come a long way. I remember when she ran her first mile with me, she was not happy at all. Now look at her, she runs 1hr 52mins and is ramping for the CIM! Great job honey! She is definitely a runner now. Now, back to that questionable health; my sis GB had an allergic reaction to something she ate the night before. It was such a bad reaction that she went into anaphylactic shock during the race! BUT…she is ok now.
So…I am running with my sister for the first time in her current running shape. Now for those of you who don’t know my sister, she is an incredible runner! Her PR in the half is 1hr 29mins and in the full is 3hrs 17mins. But those were before her being in the running shape she is in today. Before anaphylactic shock took its grip on her, we were rolling through the first 10+ miles at a 6:55 minute pace. Which for me was freakin’ A fast! A few times during those 10+ miles my sister just let it roll…..and let me just say that her top gear is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! She pulled away from me (remember we were already at a 6:55 pace) like I was standing still, no exaggeration. It was impressive and awe inspiring. Just when I thought she would drop the hammer like an AMG coming off the line, she would slow up a bit. She’d test her engine, pull away and then slow up. This was obviously because of the reaction she was feeling. Her poor blood cells were probably pumping out more white blood cells to fight the reaction, instead of the much needed red ones to make it through the race.
This is the incredible part, even though her body was shutting down, she still managed a 1:32!! Only 3 minutes off her PR. After the race her airway was getting tight, thank God benadryl did its job. As I mentioned earlier, she is fine and resting at home.
Running with my sis was an all-time experience! On my way to finishing the race she helped me PR my 10k and 12k. We held that 6:55 minute pace pretty steady, maybe varied by 3 seconds here and there. We met up with one of her training partners, Larry, at mile 7. He was running this as a workout, fyi, his half-marathon PR is something like 1hrs 10mins!
At just under mile 11, my sister tells Larry and I to go…actually she tells Larry something like this, Larry, not feeling it today, take my brother in, he wants to go sub 1:30…(meaning finish below 1hr 30 mins). So Larry looks at his Garmin watch, looks at me and says, “We have to go 6:15 to catch that time, can you go 6:15? (6min 15 sec mile splits). After the initial thought of, “Are you F^&*ING kidding me!” I say, sure thing, or I’ll die trying.
We make it through M11 – 12.5 at that time. We are now 15-20 yards behind the 1:30 pacer. Just at that time my right side cramps. It hurts, but I battle through. At mile 13, the pace group is about 75 yards in front of me. I have .1 mile left and by the grace of God I can feel the cramp subside. But my legs are burning, feeling pain shoot through my feet, Achilles, calves, hamstrings and gluteus. I stay loose and I start reeling in the 1:30 group. I can see them coming closer, 50 yards, 40 yards, 30 yards, 30, 30, 30…I can see the finish ahead…and then BAM! I see the group go 35 yards ahead, 40, 50, 60, 70, I can’t turnover fast enough. With about 100 yards to go I know I can’t catch them.
The great thing is since I am just behind the 1:30 pace group, there is no one behind me. I am running down the finishing shoot amidst thousands of cheering fans waiving my arms up and down, trying to get the crowd pumped up. Did they ever respond, the crowd, starts cheering like crazy! I’m having fun, they are powering me up and I am forgetting the pain! Now I’m taking it all in, goofing off like crazy. As I break the finish line, I do my Usain Bolt impression and lean for the tape…I look at the clock and see the finish time of 1hr 30mins 34 seconds! I PRd by eight minutes! It was incredible. Thank God and the Virgin Mother. I asked them for strength, and once again, they delivered.
Kendra also PRd; and I am happy that GB is feeling better too. One last thought as I was crossing the line, “I have a lot of work to do before the CIM in December!” It was a wonderfully blessed day.
In health and run strong! GO GB!
A group of six of us drove down to San Jose to meet up with two other friends/runners and my sister GB. This was the first half-marathon for 5 in the group so the excitement and nervousness level was high, but good.
Upon arrival, we met up with one of my old high school friends Jon Mikelonis. I hadn’t seen Jon in about 15 years. I prodded him to run this race. He was managing to run no more than 3-4 miles maximum just a few months ago, and not only did he finish his first 13.1 miler, but he did it in a time of 1hr 44mins. That is a great time, first-timer or not, for a half! I talked with Jon after and he sounded fresh, thankful and proud, especially since his wife and two young sons got to see him cross the line! I am trying to get him to go the full 26.2 miles in December at the CIM. If you know Jon, please tell him congrats. It was great seeing you Jon and meeting your beautiful family. Two other friends from high school also ran the race, Andrew Adamson and Dave Pernez. Both of those guys did great…and hats off to Andrew for deciding to run only a few days prior.
For Kendra, I and GB, this run was in the middle of our training for the CIM. Thankfully we all finished, even with questionable health…which I’ll explain in a few, but first, Kendra did great. Her running has also come a long way. I remember when she ran her first mile with me, she was not happy at all. Now look at her, she runs 1hr 52mins and is ramping for the CIM! Great job honey! She is definitely a runner now. Now, back to that questionable health; my sis GB had an allergic reaction to something she ate the night before. It was such a bad reaction that she went into anaphylactic shock during the race! BUT…she is ok now.
So…I am running with my sister for the first time in her current running shape. Now for those of you who don’t know my sister, she is an incredible runner! Her PR in the half is 1hr 29mins and in the full is 3hrs 17mins. But those were before her being in the running shape she is in today. Before anaphylactic shock took its grip on her, we were rolling through the first 10+ miles at a 6:55 minute pace. Which for me was freakin’ A fast! A few times during those 10+ miles my sister just let it roll…..and let me just say that her top gear is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! She pulled away from me (remember we were already at a 6:55 pace) like I was standing still, no exaggeration. It was impressive and awe inspiring. Just when I thought she would drop the hammer like an AMG coming off the line, she would slow up a bit. She’d test her engine, pull away and then slow up. This was obviously because of the reaction she was feeling. Her poor blood cells were probably pumping out more white blood cells to fight the reaction, instead of the much needed red ones to make it through the race.
This is the incredible part, even though her body was shutting down, she still managed a 1:32!! Only 3 minutes off her PR. After the race her airway was getting tight, thank God benadryl did its job. As I mentioned earlier, she is fine and resting at home.
Running with my sis was an all-time experience! On my way to finishing the race she helped me PR my 10k and 12k. We held that 6:55 minute pace pretty steady, maybe varied by 3 seconds here and there. We met up with one of her training partners, Larry, at mile 7. He was running this as a workout, fyi, his half-marathon PR is something like 1hrs 10mins!
At just under mile 11, my sister tells Larry and I to go…actually she tells Larry something like this, Larry, not feeling it today, take my brother in, he wants to go sub 1:30…(meaning finish below 1hr 30 mins). So Larry looks at his Garmin watch, looks at me and says, “We have to go 6:15 to catch that time, can you go 6:15? (6min 15 sec mile splits). After the initial thought of, “Are you F^&*ING kidding me!” I say, sure thing, or I’ll die trying.
We make it through M11 – 12.5 at that time. We are now 15-20 yards behind the 1:30 pacer. Just at that time my right side cramps. It hurts, but I battle through. At mile 13, the pace group is about 75 yards in front of me. I have .1 mile left and by the grace of God I can feel the cramp subside. But my legs are burning, feeling pain shoot through my feet, Achilles, calves, hamstrings and gluteus. I stay loose and I start reeling in the 1:30 group. I can see them coming closer, 50 yards, 40 yards, 30 yards, 30, 30, 30…I can see the finish ahead…and then BAM! I see the group go 35 yards ahead, 40, 50, 60, 70, I can’t turnover fast enough. With about 100 yards to go I know I can’t catch them.
The great thing is since I am just behind the 1:30 pace group, there is no one behind me. I am running down the finishing shoot amidst thousands of cheering fans waiving my arms up and down, trying to get the crowd pumped up. Did they ever respond, the crowd, starts cheering like crazy! I’m having fun, they are powering me up and I am forgetting the pain! Now I’m taking it all in, goofing off like crazy. As I break the finish line, I do my Usain Bolt impression and lean for the tape…I look at the clock and see the finish time of 1hr 30mins 34 seconds! I PRd by eight minutes! It was incredible. Thank God and the Virgin Mother. I asked them for strength, and once again, they delivered.
Kendra also PRd; and I am happy that GB is feeling better too. One last thought as I was crossing the line, “I have a lot of work to do before the CIM in December!” It was a wonderfully blessed day.
In health and run strong! GO GB!
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Stride modification
First off, this week has been fun...Kendra went to a running clinic and I went to a nutritional seminar for distance running. So we've got a bunch of new info. Here are some of the things I am trying with my stride. I'll share some nutritional info later.
Keep in mind that I am leaving out the basic fundamentals of a good running stride so the assumption is that one is already in place. These are the slight changes I made. When done alone, without an already properly aligned running gate, these adjustment could very well cause you to face plant, not kidding. And all this is very high level, reach out to me if you'd like more detail.
1 - 2 inch increased forward lean, can increase as much as 2 more inches depending on speed desired. Full body is leaning, not just from hips or mid-torso. Body is still aligned, just leaning slightly forward. Keying on gravity to pull me forward as opposed to the push of my legs.
Heels slightly higher through back and knees lower in front. This was/is hard for me because I was basically trained as a sprinter through college.
Less rigid lower legs, feet land aligned under me, not in front. Due to relaxed lower leg and low knee lift, foot barely clears ankle. Foot strike is (more) quiet.
Chin in neutral position, arms swing no more than forearm length and stay at 90 degree angle. Slight inward/outward motion is natural.
How this feels to me:
Feels like someone is pulling me forward from my mid torso.
Knees, hips, ankles, lower back feel incredibly better due to less impact (not lifting knee as high).
Cadence feels faster.
Calves are little more soar, but all the bones are good to go.
Ran 13.2 yesterday and my body felt like it only ran 8-9. That's a great thing! My average split was 7:47.
I've also modified my diet...but I'll add that in a different post.
Stay healthy!
Keep in mind that I am leaving out the basic fundamentals of a good running stride so the assumption is that one is already in place. These are the slight changes I made. When done alone, without an already properly aligned running gate, these adjustment could very well cause you to face plant, not kidding. And all this is very high level, reach out to me if you'd like more detail.
1 - 2 inch increased forward lean, can increase as much as 2 more inches depending on speed desired. Full body is leaning, not just from hips or mid-torso. Body is still aligned, just leaning slightly forward. Keying on gravity to pull me forward as opposed to the push of my legs.
Heels slightly higher through back and knees lower in front. This was/is hard for me because I was basically trained as a sprinter through college.
Less rigid lower legs, feet land aligned under me, not in front. Due to relaxed lower leg and low knee lift, foot barely clears ankle. Foot strike is (more) quiet.
Chin in neutral position, arms swing no more than forearm length and stay at 90 degree angle. Slight inward/outward motion is natural.
How this feels to me:
Feels like someone is pulling me forward from my mid torso.
Knees, hips, ankles, lower back feel incredibly better due to less impact (not lifting knee as high).
Cadence feels faster.
Calves are little more soar, but all the bones are good to go.
Ran 13.2 yesterday and my body felt like it only ran 8-9. That's a great thing! My average split was 7:47.
I've also modified my diet...but I'll add that in a different post.
Stay healthy!
Thursday, September 18, 2008
It's feeling nice outside
The weather outside is the reason why I call NorCal home. It's a beautiful 68 degrees and it's just shy of noon. Love it. Needless to say, it's the perfect weather for a run.
After traveling for business last week, I was able to get somewhat back in the groove of things. Last Sunday, I enjoyed a 16-miler. The first 6.4 miles @ 7:48 splits; next 7.5 miles @ 7:25 splits; last 2.1 miles @ recovery 8+ min. splits.
I ran 5 this morning...You know, I love the Nike +...but that darn thing is not accurate. It was off by 1/4 of a mile, which in a short 3-miler is a big deal. So here is how it truly went...
M1 - warm up at 8:11 pace
M2, 3, 4 - Tempo at 6:33 pace
M 5+ - cool down at 8:50 pace.
I am so thankful to God for my health and that my body is holding up. I must give proper respect to my foam roller. Without that thing, I would be very sore after each and every run. Kendra also showed me a better way to roll my IT band...First off, rolling that band freakin' hurts! But it feels so good afterward. My quads are so tight...the roller has helped immensely and I would recommend that everyone try it.
I've got the San Jose Half coming up and if things go well, I will hopefully be finishing in around 1:30. Stay healthy and happy everyone! And by the way, great job to all my friends on Facebook that have been increasing their running!!
After traveling for business last week, I was able to get somewhat back in the groove of things. Last Sunday, I enjoyed a 16-miler. The first 6.4 miles @ 7:48 splits; next 7.5 miles @ 7:25 splits; last 2.1 miles @ recovery 8+ min. splits.
I ran 5 this morning...You know, I love the Nike +...but that darn thing is not accurate. It was off by 1/4 of a mile, which in a short 3-miler is a big deal. So here is how it truly went...
M1 - warm up at 8:11 pace
M2, 3, 4 - Tempo at 6:33 pace
M 5+ - cool down at 8:50 pace.
I am so thankful to God for my health and that my body is holding up. I must give proper respect to my foam roller. Without that thing, I would be very sore after each and every run. Kendra also showed me a better way to roll my IT band...First off, rolling that band freakin' hurts! But it feels so good afterward. My quads are so tight...the roller has helped immensely and I would recommend that everyone try it.
I've got the San Jose Half coming up and if things go well, I will hopefully be finishing in around 1:30. Stay healthy and happy everyone! And by the way, great job to all my friends on Facebook that have been increasing their running!!
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Renewed!
Battling of achilles bursitis, somewhat in check. Thankfully it is not bugging me like before. That was big worry for me, but so far so good.
After all the weeks/months of just running to log those miles, this week is my first week of targeted marathon training, and so far so good.
I ran 10.5 mi. earlier this week and avg. 8:13 splits. This was after the first 3.1 a 9:02 pace. The last 7.4 were at 7:52 splits.
I ran 5 miles this morning:
Mile 1 - warm up @ 9:10 split;
Miles 2-4 @ tempo in 20:07, 6:42 splits, needed to be at 6:54 splits, a little too fast;
Mile 5 - cool down 9:22 split.
I felt great, hopefull that'll continue. Hope everyone else is doing great!
After all the weeks/months of just running to log those miles, this week is my first week of targeted marathon training, and so far so good.
I ran 10.5 mi. earlier this week and avg. 8:13 splits. This was after the first 3.1 a 9:02 pace. The last 7.4 were at 7:52 splits.
I ran 5 miles this morning:
Mile 1 - warm up @ 9:10 split;
Miles 2-4 @ tempo in 20:07, 6:42 splits, needed to be at 6:54 splits, a little too fast;
Mile 5 - cool down 9:22 split.
I felt great, hopefull that'll continue. Hope everyone else is doing great!
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
A little worried...
I've been dealing with this achilles bursitis thing that I've mentioned in previous posts. For a while it was absolutely killing me, I'd feel pain pulsating with my heartbeat on and under my heel while just sitting down...doing nothing. I did not run for two weeks, and the pain stayed with me. I then ran almost 10 miles, felt ok after the first mile, but then afterward, not so good. All my thoughts during the two week lay-off and especially after that last 10-miler were that I wouldn't be able to run with my sister in the CIM this December. My fitness level is probably at an all-time high, so I was emotionally torn up! I didn't want to let my sister down, nor myself. I really can't wait to run this thing in December. I kept thinking, how in the heck is this one bursa sac kicking my butt???
I've hopefully found a cure in the Strassburg Sock. I've only used it the last 2 nights, but when I've awoken, the pain was gone. I feel a little tinge, but no pain unlike every previous morning. It's kind of freaking me out not feeling it, because I've been so use to feeling it every morning. Anyway, God will hopefully keep me healthy enough (mentally and physically) to get past this little hitch in my giddy-up.
Just to report, on the almost 10-miler, I cruised it at 8:34 average splits. My strength felt good even after two weeks off. Thankfully the heel pain subsided after that first mile.
Last thought, Go USA. The Olympics have been incredible.
I've hopefully found a cure in the Strassburg Sock. I've only used it the last 2 nights, but when I've awoken, the pain was gone. I feel a little tinge, but no pain unlike every previous morning. It's kind of freaking me out not feeling it, because I've been so use to feeling it every morning. Anyway, God will hopefully keep me healthy enough (mentally and physically) to get past this little hitch in my giddy-up.
Just to report, on the almost 10-miler, I cruised it at 8:34 average splits. My strength felt good even after two weeks off. Thankfully the heel pain subsided after that first mile.
Last thought, Go USA. The Olympics have been incredible.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Trying to log those miles
The smoke is back blanketing the NorCal valley, so it gets tough in trying to get the miles done. Over the 4th we headed up to our cabin for a respite from the heat. It was in the 40s in the morning and heated up to the mid-80s. Perfect weather. We also got three days of wakeboarding in! and we were joined by 4 other families, with whom we spend the majority of our weekends with anyway due to all of our kids play soccer together. It was a lot of fun.
I decided to go for a little 5k run at 5,500 ft elevation. I was going to hammer out a 10k, but some friends decided to join me and I didn't want to leave them alone on a course that they never ran so we all ran the 5k together. Basically it was an uphill bomber, out and back. My friends were saying that they've never run a hill like that before, but were very excited to finish it. They ran/walked but finished, which is what counts!
I had a killer fitness workout on Monday, just a total burner doing 4 sets of three exercises each for my chest, and back, with at least 12 reps; finished with a doozy ab workout, hanging leg lifts with ROM of knees hitting elbows, 4 sets of 12-15 each. If you haven't tried these, I highly recommend it. Followed by a good stretch. Today I needed a run but the smoke was choking. So I ran a 10k on the treadmill at the gym. I can't stand running on the treadmill. I did the Alpine course and kept playing with the grades and speed, even hitting 15% grade for a minute or too at 8+ mph. That's is when lactic acid pretty much took over and it forced me back to a 7% grade at about 4.5 mph. Once the legs got "breathing" again, I kept on hitting them arrows. The good thing is that I ran the 10k in just over 49 minutes. It would have been nice to finish it around 45 minutes, but I messed up the programming on the speed and it started the build up too slow.
I hope the smoke clears soon so that I can get back out on the road. I also hope all the firefighters are safe out there, brother and brother-in-law included!
I decided to go for a little 5k run at 5,500 ft elevation. I was going to hammer out a 10k, but some friends decided to join me and I didn't want to leave them alone on a course that they never ran so we all ran the 5k together. Basically it was an uphill bomber, out and back. My friends were saying that they've never run a hill like that before, but were very excited to finish it. They ran/walked but finished, which is what counts!
I had a killer fitness workout on Monday, just a total burner doing 4 sets of three exercises each for my chest, and back, with at least 12 reps; finished with a doozy ab workout, hanging leg lifts with ROM of knees hitting elbows, 4 sets of 12-15 each. If you haven't tried these, I highly recommend it. Followed by a good stretch. Today I needed a run but the smoke was choking. So I ran a 10k on the treadmill at the gym. I can't stand running on the treadmill. I did the Alpine course and kept playing with the grades and speed, even hitting 15% grade for a minute or too at 8+ mph. That's is when lactic acid pretty much took over and it forced me back to a 7% grade at about 4.5 mph. Once the legs got "breathing" again, I kept on hitting them arrows. The good thing is that I ran the 10k in just over 49 minutes. It would have been nice to finish it around 45 minutes, but I messed up the programming on the speed and it started the build up too slow.
I hope the smoke clears soon so that I can get back out on the road. I also hope all the firefighters are safe out there, brother and brother-in-law included!
Thursday, June 26, 2008
And he ran so fast that smoke trails came out of his shoes
Oh wait, that's because it's freakin' smokey outside due to all the wildfires in NorCal. In case you haven't seen the news, pretty much all of the upper central valley has been socked in with smoke. In the last week or so, I could always see the smoke, but the smell of the smoke was never that bad, if non-existant during the morning. However, today it was bad. Last night I was able to see a clear picture of the nighttime sky, so I thought the prevailing winds would finish the job today and push the smoke out, but alas, it did not happen. I headed to the gym today and hammered out a nice workout. It took all the motivation I had to get myself there. At about 7am I was trying really hard to talk myself out of going, but it didn't work! My other personality talked me into going.
Two days ago I took advantage of the nice morning weather and ran 10.5 miles. I cruised...literally. I felt like a Cadillac in no hurry to get anywhere. I was just taking in the scenery. I cruised my way to about a 9:34 mile pace...no wonder it barely felt like I was working. I was going to add in a 5k loop at the end but just plain ran out of time. It was nice to know that I had a lot left in the tank. My body felt like it had about 85% left. I'll take this as a minor victory because my running has been slacking lately. Only due to me choosing to go wakeboarding instead. The day prior to that I swam for 35 minutes straight and that was also a killer workout. I don't swim enough, but I should do it more.
I didn't share this in the last post, but I took 3 dingers the other night wakeboarding. The first one caught me by surprise so my body was still a little more relaxed. Just after I landed after clearing the wake, I got too forward on the board and pulled a face plant. It felt like I got slapped by a paddle. The 2nd one hurt! I felt this fall coming and so I tensed up a little. I landed right-ear first and immediately it turned red. Not only did I get a slight case of cauliflower ear, but I hit so hard that it kickstarted a migraine headache. Migraine and no meds = no fun.
Well, after my sight came back I decided to go out a 3rd time. One could argue, why? However my thought was this...I read many articles about migraines and I remember a few of them saying that if you could increase blood flow it would minimize the headache...knowing that whether I took another run or not, a killer headache would ensue, I said why not! The ride was going great, clearing the wake again...again...again... and then BLAMMO! I took a backside digger and landed on the back of my head. It hurt so bad that I ended up getting a straightline bruise on the back of my head due to where the water line and my noggin first hit. So yes, I will wear a helmet for now on (I always wear one when snowboarding) but for the first time in my life of migraines, my headache was not that bad and I didn't get nauseous. So, I think the increase blood flow thing is legit...if only I hadn't fell that 3rd time.
Lastly...how about them Fresno State Bulldogs!?!?! Winning the NCAA Baseball College World Series. I couldn't be more happy for my alma mater. Go Dogs!
In health.
Two days ago I took advantage of the nice morning weather and ran 10.5 miles. I cruised...literally. I felt like a Cadillac in no hurry to get anywhere. I was just taking in the scenery. I cruised my way to about a 9:34 mile pace...no wonder it barely felt like I was working. I was going to add in a 5k loop at the end but just plain ran out of time. It was nice to know that I had a lot left in the tank. My body felt like it had about 85% left. I'll take this as a minor victory because my running has been slacking lately. Only due to me choosing to go wakeboarding instead. The day prior to that I swam for 35 minutes straight and that was also a killer workout. I don't swim enough, but I should do it more.
I didn't share this in the last post, but I took 3 dingers the other night wakeboarding. The first one caught me by surprise so my body was still a little more relaxed. Just after I landed after clearing the wake, I got too forward on the board and pulled a face plant. It felt like I got slapped by a paddle. The 2nd one hurt! I felt this fall coming and so I tensed up a little. I landed right-ear first and immediately it turned red. Not only did I get a slight case of cauliflower ear, but I hit so hard that it kickstarted a migraine headache. Migraine and no meds = no fun.
Well, after my sight came back I decided to go out a 3rd time. One could argue, why? However my thought was this...I read many articles about migraines and I remember a few of them saying that if you could increase blood flow it would minimize the headache...knowing that whether I took another run or not, a killer headache would ensue, I said why not! The ride was going great, clearing the wake again...again...again... and then BLAMMO! I took a backside digger and landed on the back of my head. It hurt so bad that I ended up getting a straightline bruise on the back of my head due to where the water line and my noggin first hit. So yes, I will wear a helmet for now on (I always wear one when snowboarding) but for the first time in my life of migraines, my headache was not that bad and I didn't get nauseous. So, I think the increase blood flow thing is legit...if only I hadn't fell that 3rd time.
Lastly...how about them Fresno State Bulldogs!?!?! Winning the NCAA Baseball College World Series. I couldn't be more happy for my alma mater. Go Dogs!
In health.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Running?
Is that what I planned on doing last week?? Last week was a baaaaaaad running and overall fitness week for me. I only went to the gym 2X, ran once, and wakeboarded 2X. Actually, I probably shouldn't have gone twice, but how can one resist the invite to hit the wake! Each run on the water leaves me feeling like I just ran quarters anyway, so maybe it wasn't all that bad.
I also spent two full days with windshield time, driving to the Bay Area for some business meetings. Afterall, I still work and need to fund the running shoe and athletic wear fix that I share with my entire family! My one run of the week was to the rental car place, which was only about 3.3 miles from the house. I covered it in about 25 minutes or so, it was just a nice little cruiser.
My body was stiff! It takes about a full mile at least for my body to relax and get that nice running tempo. But until that magical moment of fluidity hits, it feels like I am running on two axes and I am just chopping the ground. Not sure if anyone else feels that way. Literally, that first mile I always ask...what are you doing out here today!! You feel like crappola! BUT I know that all will be fine after that first 7-8 minutes. I am thinking about riding my spin bike for ten minutes before I run just so I can get loose.
Totally non-running related...this just in, my youngest daughter, who is 8yrs old, just one the "Little Miss" Queen of Placer County at the Placer County Fair. She was so excited, and she obviously really likes it. We are all very proud of her and I'll post some pics after I download them. It's pretty cool to see how different her and her sister are but how they both totally support each other.
Make all your days great running or fitness days! I'll be starting up the running program very soon aiming for the sub-3 finish at the CIM. I just need to make sure that I choose to run once or twice instead of wakeboarding!! That's gonna be hard!
One last thing, I read this proverb in the bible, Proverbs 16:3 "Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed." To me, this couldn't be written/spoken any more simply. It covers all aspects and challenges in life and running doesn't it? Amen I say to you!
I also spent two full days with windshield time, driving to the Bay Area for some business meetings. Afterall, I still work and need to fund the running shoe and athletic wear fix that I share with my entire family! My one run of the week was to the rental car place, which was only about 3.3 miles from the house. I covered it in about 25 minutes or so, it was just a nice little cruiser.
My body was stiff! It takes about a full mile at least for my body to relax and get that nice running tempo. But until that magical moment of fluidity hits, it feels like I am running on two axes and I am just chopping the ground. Not sure if anyone else feels that way. Literally, that first mile I always ask...what are you doing out here today!! You feel like crappola! BUT I know that all will be fine after that first 7-8 minutes. I am thinking about riding my spin bike for ten minutes before I run just so I can get loose.
Totally non-running related...this just in, my youngest daughter, who is 8yrs old, just one the "Little Miss" Queen of Placer County at the Placer County Fair. She was so excited, and she obviously really likes it. We are all very proud of her and I'll post some pics after I download them. It's pretty cool to see how different her and her sister are but how they both totally support each other.
Make all your days great running or fitness days! I'll be starting up the running program very soon aiming for the sub-3 finish at the CIM. I just need to make sure that I choose to run once or twice instead of wakeboarding!! That's gonna be hard!
One last thing, I read this proverb in the bible, Proverbs 16:3 "Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed." To me, this couldn't be written/spoken any more simply. It covers all aspects and challenges in life and running doesn't it? Amen I say to you!
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Slacker (blogging that is!)
Man! It feels like it's been forever since I've blogged! I guess because in the instant gratification era of the digital world, three weeks is forever! I was recently debating two new pairs of running shoes...here me out on this first. Believe it or not, Nordstrom Rack sells some sweet motion control shoes. At least up in the Roseville, CA. area. If you time it right, you can have selections from Asics Duomax, Brooks Beast, Nike Equalon and about 4 different models of New Balance...all for about a 60% or more discount off retail...kid you not! Asics retail are $90, $39.99 there...Nike Equalon, $129 retail, $49.99 there.
Since I'm sharing this little tidbit of motion control heaven with you, I must also share with you that I am somewhat of a stupid guy, especially shopping. True story, the first few times I was shopping at the Rack for shoes, I was very excited to see the deals available, but I was so frustrated because....(ready for the stupid part???) I could only find the freakin' left shoe! Stupid me never realized that I had to go to the desk to ask for the MATCHING right shoe! Yes, it took me about 3 trips before my lovely bride told me "The Secret" of shopping for shoes at the Rack. Only after she laughed hilariously at me for a good 5-10 minutes. You must not share that story!
I digress...I brought home my tried and true Asics Duomax MC plus a pair I've never worn, Nike Equalon MC. I ended up returning the Asics! That's almost sacrilegious. For some reason the Asics have been feeling like bricks on the bottom of my feet and I think that is one reason why I've had some heel pain. I didn't have that pain in the Nikes. So I am no longer a Nike running-shoe virgin, so far so good. I'll tell you how they feel after 100 miles.
Speaking of running. Over the last 2+ weeks I've been running from 6-9 miles each time out. I am blessed to live in somewhat of a hilly area. Nothing major, but I have access to some climbs of 300 or so feet in less than 1/4 and 1/2 miles. That said, I'm really happy with my 10k times. The last few have all been well under 1 hour, which is cool. Yesterday though, I went for a run during lunch, in the heat (about 85). I had two nice size hills, both bigger than Beacon Hill in the Boston Marathon, and very similar in distance. The first mile cruised by in 7:33...I was pretty happy (Nikes feeling GREAT!). Miles 2 thru 3+ were hills. I rolled through the first mile of rollers nicely. Then the freakin' pitch came. I was able to hammer this but even while practicing every breathing tactic to keep making O2, I couldn't keep the lactic acid from attacking my hamstrings and gluteals. I was so tight at the top I almost had to walk, but didn't. After that, it was nice rollers, net drop, down to home. I finished averaging 7:42/mile for a rolling 10K, 48:54. I was very happy with that.
A few days prior to that I ran 9 miles. It was a little slower, finished at 1:15. I wore the Asics on this run, and my feet were hurting. There were some other runs in there too, but Dude! that was over two weeks ago, can't remember what I did:P.
I am logging around 20-25 miles per week, which is kind of where I want to be before I start kicking in the program for December.
The last few runs I wore the BodyBug, it's this thing that you wear around your upper arm and it counts calories burned. On the days I ran, my total calories burned was easily above 3,000, I think my highest was 3,800. Wow...you know what that means right? It means I GET TO EAT! and I like to eat! J/K kinda...I'm actually trying to eat better because I want to see how it makes me feel. Kendra read this great diet book, Eating Clean (and the sequal to it), there are some very easy to follow and good/good for you recipes in there. I recommend you read it too. I am still working out at the gym and each workout I am pushing my heart rate. I'll probably start to incorporate spin again...but after teaching spin for so long, it is very boring for me. I'd rather strap on the shoes and push my heart rate past 190 bpm that way. But I can't say enough about the low-impact a bike gives you, it is a good break from the pounding and I've been able to get my heart rate 200+bpm and not faint! That's definitely part of my plan...I need to keep increasing my anaerobic threshold because that will help me hammer my per mile splits and still stay aerobic. I can't wait for the day I can hit 165 bpm and still make O2...If I can do that and keep my mileage up, that 3hr mark will fall! I truly believe it.
I took a break from running today, worked out at the gym and then wake boarded after work. Sore! The water was glass on the Sacto River and only two other boats were out there. It was my first time boarding this summer and...yeah baby, was able to take it wake to wake on my first run! I had two more loooong runs, and worked on going fakey the last one. I got it, which was cool, but I felt like I had just run 400s, seriously. You can say it was a GREAT x-training day:D.
Back on the road tomorrow...or maybe I'll ride?? GOD BLESS and GOD SPEED!
Since I'm sharing this little tidbit of motion control heaven with you, I must also share with you that I am somewhat of a stupid guy, especially shopping. True story, the first few times I was shopping at the Rack for shoes, I was very excited to see the deals available, but I was so frustrated because....(ready for the stupid part???) I could only find the freakin' left shoe! Stupid me never realized that I had to go to the desk to ask for the MATCHING right shoe! Yes, it took me about 3 trips before my lovely bride told me "The Secret" of shopping for shoes at the Rack. Only after she laughed hilariously at me for a good 5-10 minutes. You must not share that story!
I digress...I brought home my tried and true Asics Duomax MC plus a pair I've never worn, Nike Equalon MC. I ended up returning the Asics! That's almost sacrilegious. For some reason the Asics have been feeling like bricks on the bottom of my feet and I think that is one reason why I've had some heel pain. I didn't have that pain in the Nikes. So I am no longer a Nike running-shoe virgin, so far so good. I'll tell you how they feel after 100 miles.
Speaking of running. Over the last 2+ weeks I've been running from 6-9 miles each time out. I am blessed to live in somewhat of a hilly area. Nothing major, but I have access to some climbs of 300 or so feet in less than 1/4 and 1/2 miles. That said, I'm really happy with my 10k times. The last few have all been well under 1 hour, which is cool. Yesterday though, I went for a run during lunch, in the heat (about 85). I had two nice size hills, both bigger than Beacon Hill in the Boston Marathon, and very similar in distance. The first mile cruised by in 7:33...I was pretty happy (Nikes feeling GREAT!). Miles 2 thru 3+ were hills. I rolled through the first mile of rollers nicely. Then the freakin' pitch came. I was able to hammer this but even while practicing every breathing tactic to keep making O2, I couldn't keep the lactic acid from attacking my hamstrings and gluteals. I was so tight at the top I almost had to walk, but didn't. After that, it was nice rollers, net drop, down to home. I finished averaging 7:42/mile for a rolling 10K, 48:54. I was very happy with that.
A few days prior to that I ran 9 miles. It was a little slower, finished at 1:15. I wore the Asics on this run, and my feet were hurting. There were some other runs in there too, but Dude! that was over two weeks ago, can't remember what I did:P.
I am logging around 20-25 miles per week, which is kind of where I want to be before I start kicking in the program for December.
The last few runs I wore the BodyBug, it's this thing that you wear around your upper arm and it counts calories burned. On the days I ran, my total calories burned was easily above 3,000, I think my highest was 3,800. Wow...you know what that means right? It means I GET TO EAT! and I like to eat! J/K kinda...I'm actually trying to eat better because I want to see how it makes me feel. Kendra read this great diet book, Eating Clean (and the sequal to it), there are some very easy to follow and good/good for you recipes in there. I recommend you read it too. I am still working out at the gym and each workout I am pushing my heart rate. I'll probably start to incorporate spin again...but after teaching spin for so long, it is very boring for me. I'd rather strap on the shoes and push my heart rate past 190 bpm that way. But I can't say enough about the low-impact a bike gives you, it is a good break from the pounding and I've been able to get my heart rate 200+bpm and not faint! That's definitely part of my plan...I need to keep increasing my anaerobic threshold because that will help me hammer my per mile splits and still stay aerobic. I can't wait for the day I can hit 165 bpm and still make O2...If I can do that and keep my mileage up, that 3hr mark will fall! I truly believe it.
I took a break from running today, worked out at the gym and then wake boarded after work. Sore! The water was glass on the Sacto River and only two other boats were out there. It was my first time boarding this summer and...yeah baby, was able to take it wake to wake on my first run! I had two more loooong runs, and worked on going fakey the last one. I got it, which was cool, but I felt like I had just run 400s, seriously. You can say it was a GREAT x-training day:D.
Back on the road tomorrow...or maybe I'll ride?? GOD BLESS and GOD SPEED!
Monday, May 26, 2008
Just catching up!
You gotta love weekends when you originally had plans, only for them to fall through and you end up just totally relaxing. This has been a major decompress 3-day weekend. The weather wasn't the hottest, even a little rain...but we spent time with great friends and that is all that really matters.
Last Friday I got a new tattoo across my upper back, the picture was just after it was finished, thus all the red skin. It's healing nicely. I love the fact that I am now carrying the cross on my back! He keeps me strong.
Last week was a good running week for me. I did a 10k in 47 minutes and then added a track workout a few days later. The track workout was a lot of fun because it brought back all sorts of old memories from when I ran track at Fresno State! I ran eight 400s with 60 seconds rest in between. Here are the splits.
#1 1:19
#2 1:22
#3 1:23
#4 1:26
#5 1:28
#6 1:25
#7 1:24
#8 1:22
I was thankful that I was able to stay pretty consistent and that the wheels did not come flying off the last two!
After the quarters, I ran ten 30yd hill repeats. The grade was probably right around 30 degrees. I was tapped when done and very happy to be finished!!
Today, being Memorial Day, Kendra and I ran the 7.4 mile loop. I was thinking I was going to do it 2X but decided not too, wasn't feeling it. We had a very mellow and enjoyable run nonetheless. It was a perfect way to celebrate our loved ones who are now in a better place:)
Keep on churnin'!
Last Friday I got a new tattoo across my upper back, the picture was just after it was finished, thus all the red skin. It's healing nicely. I love the fact that I am now carrying the cross on my back! He keeps me strong.
Last week was a good running week for me. I did a 10k in 47 minutes and then added a track workout a few days later. The track workout was a lot of fun because it brought back all sorts of old memories from when I ran track at Fresno State! I ran eight 400s with 60 seconds rest in between. Here are the splits.
#1 1:19
#2 1:22
#3 1:23
#4 1:26
#5 1:28
#6 1:25
#7 1:24
#8 1:22
I was thankful that I was able to stay pretty consistent and that the wheels did not come flying off the last two!
After the quarters, I ran ten 30yd hill repeats. The grade was probably right around 30 degrees. I was tapped when done and very happy to be finished!!
Today, being Memorial Day, Kendra and I ran the 7.4 mile loop. I was thinking I was going to do it 2X but decided not too, wasn't feeling it. We had a very mellow and enjoyable run nonetheless. It was a perfect way to celebrate our loved ones who are now in a better place:)
Keep on churnin'!
Monday, May 19, 2008
5k pics of my daughter!
I finally found her pics. Here she is on her way to a 25:14 finish (8:10 pace) in her first 5k!! YEAH!!
Oh, and I just had to share this pic of me and my honey. We'll celebrate our 14th anniversary this year:D Funny story, my wife ran a 5k loop the other day and she comes into the house after pushing her pace, she says, "Man, I was working hard. Too bad my 10-yr old would still kick my butt!" LOL. She is incredible, she was never a runner and 1.5 years ago she made a commitment to change it. Since then she has finished two halfs, and many local 5ks. She'll be gunning for her first marathon this December. I'm very proud of her!!
Oh, and I just had to share this pic of me and my honey. We'll celebrate our 14th anniversary this year:D Funny story, my wife ran a 5k loop the other day and she comes into the house after pushing her pace, she says, "Man, I was working hard. Too bad my 10-yr old would still kick my butt!" LOL. She is incredible, she was never a runner and 1.5 years ago she made a commitment to change it. Since then she has finished two halfs, and many local 5ks. She'll be gunning for her first marathon this December. I'm very proud of her!!
Craziness!
It's been wildly hot in the valley of Northern CA the last few days...so hot that 99 degrees was actually cool. For the first time this spring, I had to turn the solar down on the pool because 90 degree water just doesn't sound that refreshing. My family was swimming last night and after getting out of the water, it made 96 degree air temp seem cold...so my pool was so warm that it gave us the reverse effect of cooling down! That's funny!
I've been thinking about my sister, her friend Danny and my high school friend Mike because they ran the 50K Ohlone Trail run yesterday while the temps were north of 95! BRUTAL! I've only heard from them to know that they made it alive...and that it was incredibly difficult. But I am very proud of all three of them for gutting it out. Mike and and my sister GB both were the first male and female rookies to cross the line, so they took home Rookie of the Year honors! Way to go. As an ode to all the runners yesterday, I attempted to run a 10K in 104 degree heat yesterday...it was so freakin' hot that I only got through a 5K...I then swam laps for another 10-15 minutes (which in itself is a butt kicker for me!) I am glad I at least did that for all of them.
This morning I wanted to beat the heat, so I ran this course in my town that is used for a local 12K race. It's a fun little course with some nice rollers, nothing too crazy though. I last ran this course on race day in 53 minutes and change, but ran it today in 58:45. I was glad to run it sub-1 hour since temps were already in the high 70s - low 80s.
The killer thing...in a previous post I mentioned that my heel and the very back of my arch was sore...it was really sore today. I think I have achilles tendon bursitis (based on symptons I googled) and my plantar fascii is acting up too because of it. Unfortunately, I'll be needing a little rest, but I can still ride and swim! YeeHaw!
I've been thinking about my sister, her friend Danny and my high school friend Mike because they ran the 50K Ohlone Trail run yesterday while the temps were north of 95! BRUTAL! I've only heard from them to know that they made it alive...and that it was incredibly difficult. But I am very proud of all three of them for gutting it out. Mike and and my sister GB both were the first male and female rookies to cross the line, so they took home Rookie of the Year honors! Way to go. As an ode to all the runners yesterday, I attempted to run a 10K in 104 degree heat yesterday...it was so freakin' hot that I only got through a 5K...I then swam laps for another 10-15 minutes (which in itself is a butt kicker for me!) I am glad I at least did that for all of them.
This morning I wanted to beat the heat, so I ran this course in my town that is used for a local 12K race. It's a fun little course with some nice rollers, nothing too crazy though. I last ran this course on race day in 53 minutes and change, but ran it today in 58:45. I was glad to run it sub-1 hour since temps were already in the high 70s - low 80s.
The killer thing...in a previous post I mentioned that my heel and the very back of my arch was sore...it was really sore today. I think I have achilles tendon bursitis (based on symptons I googled) and my plantar fascii is acting up too because of it. Unfortunately, I'll be needing a little rest, but I can still ride and swim! YeeHaw!
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Hilly
I powered thru a 10.03 hilly run this morning. It was hot! I think that is why my calves felt it in the first 1.5 miles and I was praying that it wasn't a sign to come. I thankfully was able to get up two nice size hills (250 ft climb and about a 200 ft climb) before I went through the roller coaster. It's a stretch of the run that is almost two miles where it is up and down the entire stretch.
Basically from mile 2 to mile 6, you climb almost 400 ft in elevation. The biggest jump is miles 5 - 6 where the last 257 ft of climbing occurs. The good and bad part is that you see that last climb in its entirety when you are about 1/4 mile from it. Even with the calves not feeling so responsive, I was able to make my way up due to nice rythmic arm swings and leg turnover. I was thanking God!
After that, it is four miles of mostly downhill, albeit, slow downhills to the finish. There are some nice rollers near mile 10 just for the fun of it!
All in all, I felt pretty good considering I haven't had a double digit run in a few months now. It was a little slower than I wanted, but considering the heat, the amount of climbing and the lack of calf response, I am pretty happy!
Stats:
10.03 miles
1 hr 22 minutes time
8.10 pace
7.34 mph (all stats include my stops for the water fountain)
1361 calories burned!
Heres the map:
Basically from mile 2 to mile 6, you climb almost 400 ft in elevation. The biggest jump is miles 5 - 6 where the last 257 ft of climbing occurs. The good and bad part is that you see that last climb in its entirety when you are about 1/4 mile from it. Even with the calves not feeling so responsive, I was able to make my way up due to nice rythmic arm swings and leg turnover. I was thanking God!
After that, it is four miles of mostly downhill, albeit, slow downhills to the finish. There are some nice rollers near mile 10 just for the fun of it!
All in all, I felt pretty good considering I haven't had a double digit run in a few months now. It was a little slower than I wanted, but considering the heat, the amount of climbing and the lack of calf response, I am pretty happy!
Stats:
10.03 miles
1 hr 22 minutes time
8.10 pace
7.34 mph (all stats include my stops for the water fountain)
1361 calories burned!
Heres the map:
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