Sometimes, even when we know what the outcome will be with great certainty, we do things anyway. Such was the case with my 10k last week. I decided to run my long run on Wednesday afternoon, just 16 hours before my 10k race. I knew it wasn’t incredibly intelligent, but I also knew the forecast was predicting a downpouring the next day (in which case I wouldn’t run), and that I wouldn’t want to do my long run either Friday or Saturday after much family celebration. The good thing is on Wednesday I was feeling great. It was one of those runs I could have kept on going, and my pace was strong (8:39, nearly 7 miles per hour). The expected downfall of such a decision was my race on Thanksgiving was extremely painful, both physically and mentally. I almost didn’t go when I woke up at 530a to pouring rain. I enjoy running in a light mist, but a downpour while crammed in a pack of runners is just miserable. But the run was 30 miles south in Mesa, and as the sun started to come up I could see the clouds were breaking. I left my spectators behind, not wanting them to have to sit in the rain (especially with a 2 month old), and headed off. I had a mile walk to the starting line, and by my arrival I realized it was actually pretty muggy, and a little warm, so I started to shed my layers (it was cold when I left my house). By mile 2 I was pretty sure I wouldn’t make it half way. My legs felt like cement blocks they were so fatigued, and it felt like I was breathing under water it was so humid. I had to run past my car at mile 3, and it took everything in me not to run right to it. But I pushed on…in the unprettiest run of my life…and for the first time ever, I actually had to stop and walk briefly a couple times. My knee pain was strong, and my body kept telling me to stop…but I kept going. I managed my way across the finish line without one drop of will left…and then I had to walk the mile back to my car. Ugh! My race time was my worst 10k yet, but considering I walked, still not all that bad. For the first time ever, the race gave me a better time than my forerunner, which put me at 54:45, 8:50 miles. This time the race was actually a little shy of 6.22, at 6.2…a distance both the results webpage and my forerunner confirm. The next two days my knees really bothered me, but they’ve felt fine on my runs since. I’m just glad it’s over!
Then over the weekend we got a big group together to play flag football before the Vikings beat up on the Bears. Seems harmless enough right? Nope! We were all crippled with soreness…which forced me to take Monday off from running. I guess all that turning and twisting while running works some new muscles. I’ve got myself back on track, and expect to finish out the week with an 8 mile run today, and 4 miles tomorrow. My mileage is finally starting to get up to a respectable amount, and I’m able to start seeing the possibility of running 13.1 miles! It’s hard to believe the race is just barely more than 6 weeks away.
Just a reminder, before I start harassing you all with emails (which you should expect soon)…I’m lacking enormously in my fundraising achievements. Please support me and a good cause and donate to my ACS fund (link at the right).
Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving!
Week 9 Summary: Goal 21 miles, 7.25 mile long run. I completed 21 miles, and exceeded my long run goal with a 7.5 mile run (1:04:55/8:39). My pace for the week was 8:47.
Week 10 Goal: My goal is 22 miles overall. I’ve upped my long run goal to 8 miles since I’ve exceeded my previous goals. This puts me a half mile (one week) ahead of schedule on my long run.
Thursday, November 27th 10k Summary: According to the race results I finished in 54:38 (8:48). My forerunner put me at 54:45 (8:50), nearly a minute slower than my goal.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Monday, November 24, 2008
3 days from the turkey trot, and half way to PF Changs...
It's hard to believe, but I've now finished one half of my training. Amazing how quickly the time flies by! I pushed myself above the one hour mark this past week for the first time this season! It feels so good to get those long runs completed. Surprisingly, often times my long run each week is my easiest. I’m not sure if it’s because I’m more focused, or taking better care of myself the day before, but often times I feel like I could run much further when it comes to the end of my long run. I tend to stop myself at those points knowing adding too much distance too quickly can lead to injury.
I’m preparing myself for my second, and most likely last 10k before PF Changs, this Thursday (http://www.raceplaceevents.com/event.php?event=401002). I’m forcing myself to behave all week, despite the distractions that come with the holiday approaching. I know a few good days of rest, good diet, some good runs and workouts, and adequate stretching offer me the best chance for a strong run on Thanksgiving. I’m not much of a pasta eater, but it’s certain to make my menu this week. And I love knowing I’m starting out a day of gluttony with a solid run, erases some of the guilt!
Week 8 Summary: Goal 20 miles, 6.5 mile long run. I met my distance goal, and exceeded my long run goal with a 7 mile run. My long run took me 1:01:59 (8:51). I’ve now completed more than 120 miles, with a pace of 8:52.
Week 9 Goal: My goal this week is 21 miles. I’m scheduled for a long run of 7 miles, but since I ran that last week I’ll attempt for 7.25 miles this week. Added to my 10k race on Thursday, my other two runs won’t have to be very long.
Thursday, November 27th 10k: My goal for this 10k is 53:55 (8:40 miles).
I’m preparing myself for my second, and most likely last 10k before PF Changs, this Thursday (http://www.raceplaceevents.com/event.php?event=401002). I’m forcing myself to behave all week, despite the distractions that come with the holiday approaching. I know a few good days of rest, good diet, some good runs and workouts, and adequate stretching offer me the best chance for a strong run on Thanksgiving. I’m not much of a pasta eater, but it’s certain to make my menu this week. And I love knowing I’m starting out a day of gluttony with a solid run, erases some of the guilt!
Week 8 Summary: Goal 20 miles, 6.5 mile long run. I met my distance goal, and exceeded my long run goal with a 7 mile run. My long run took me 1:01:59 (8:51). I’ve now completed more than 120 miles, with a pace of 8:52.
Week 9 Goal: My goal this week is 21 miles. I’m scheduled for a long run of 7 miles, but since I ran that last week I’ll attempt for 7.25 miles this week. Added to my 10k race on Thursday, my other two runs won’t have to be very long.
Thursday, November 27th 10k: My goal for this 10k is 53:55 (8:40 miles).
Getting further...
I’m still somehow behind on my blogs. I guess that’s pretty indicative of what’s going on in my life right now…never seems to be a free moment, but I’m enjoying it all the same.
My running is definitely coming along, and as my long runs build, I’m feeling more confident and much stronger on my shorter runs. I have encountered some knee pain, which always concerns me. I know with as busy as I’ve been, I haven’t been as strict on getting in all my lower body workouts and stretching. For some reason strength training my legs always is the easiest one for me to put off. I think partially because I know it makes me sore for a couple days, which interferes with my running schedule. I think also it’s because my legs get such a workout from running, I tend to want to work my upper body when I’m in the gym. Whatever it is, I’m really trying to commit myself to being better, since I know as I build my mileage the chances for an injury increase.
By no means take the next statement as a complaint…but summer just seems to be holding on here! I love the warm weather, although it does make it a little trickier for training. Even as we close in on the end of November, I have to schedule runs for earlier in the day, or at night. The forecast has it cooling down this week, which makes me a little sad, but it allow me more freedom for when I run during the day. I’m pretty sure this will be the shortest winter ever since by early February it’s usually warming back up. I love this state!
Week 7 Summary: Goal 19 miles, 10k (6.22 miles) long run. I completed 19 miles for week 7, and ran a 10k. Details of my 10k are in my last post.
Week 8 Goal: My goal for week 8 is 20 miles, with a 6.5 mile long run.
My running is definitely coming along, and as my long runs build, I’m feeling more confident and much stronger on my shorter runs. I have encountered some knee pain, which always concerns me. I know with as busy as I’ve been, I haven’t been as strict on getting in all my lower body workouts and stretching. For some reason strength training my legs always is the easiest one for me to put off. I think partially because I know it makes me sore for a couple days, which interferes with my running schedule. I think also it’s because my legs get such a workout from running, I tend to want to work my upper body when I’m in the gym. Whatever it is, I’m really trying to commit myself to being better, since I know as I build my mileage the chances for an injury increase.
By no means take the next statement as a complaint…but summer just seems to be holding on here! I love the warm weather, although it does make it a little trickier for training. Even as we close in on the end of November, I have to schedule runs for earlier in the day, or at night. The forecast has it cooling down this week, which makes me a little sad, but it allow me more freedom for when I run during the day. I’m pretty sure this will be the shortest winter ever since by early February it’s usually warming back up. I love this state!
Week 7 Summary: Goal 19 miles, 10k (6.22 miles) long run. I completed 19 miles for week 7, and ran a 10k. Details of my 10k are in my last post.
Week 8 Goal: My goal for week 8 is 20 miles, with a 6.5 mile long run.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Behind on my posts...not on my running.
So apparently last week was too busy to update my blog. I’ll do a quick catch up now, and fill you all in better later this week.
I completed the Phoenix 10k last weekend. The run was a real struggle for me, although I do realize I may not have done the best pre-race preparation the day and two before. I’m keeping that in mind for my next 10k in just 10 days. I did forget to hit the stop button on my Garmin when crossing the finish line, but I hit the lap button at 6.22 miles, and was at 53:29 (8:36). The race was a little longer than an actual 10k (I’m not sure if I did a lot of sideways running, or if the course was just off a bit), and I finished it out in 54:27 (8:46s based on 6.22 miles). I asked a couple guys after the race what their gps watches measured the race at, and they said 6.33 miles, so it wasn’t just me:)
I woke up this morning with severe pain behind my left knee. I took yesterday off running, and wasn’t feeling any pain yesterday, so I’m not sure what’s going on. I can’t straighten my leg all the way though, so I’m not happy about it. I’m going to try some continued stretching and see if I can get out for a run this evening. This is a different kind of pain than I’ve ever felt before, so I’m not sure if running will be a really bad thing, or even an option. But I’ll give it a try.
Week 6 Summary: Goal 18 miles, with a 5.75 mile long run. I exceeded my long run with a 6 mile run, and met my miles goal. My pace for the week was 8:46.
Week 7 Goal: My goal for week 7 was 19 miles, with a long run being my 10k (6.22 miles).
Sunday, November 9 10k Summary: I finished the race in 54:27, which was just 2 seconds more than my goal. My Garmin shows me beating my goal for 6.22 miles, with 53:29, 9 seconds faster than my goal pace. That puts me just 2 seconds off 7 mph.
I completed the Phoenix 10k last weekend. The run was a real struggle for me, although I do realize I may not have done the best pre-race preparation the day and two before. I’m keeping that in mind for my next 10k in just 10 days. I did forget to hit the stop button on my Garmin when crossing the finish line, but I hit the lap button at 6.22 miles, and was at 53:29 (8:36). The race was a little longer than an actual 10k (I’m not sure if I did a lot of sideways running, or if the course was just off a bit), and I finished it out in 54:27 (8:46s based on 6.22 miles). I asked a couple guys after the race what their gps watches measured the race at, and they said 6.33 miles, so it wasn’t just me:)
I woke up this morning with severe pain behind my left knee. I took yesterday off running, and wasn’t feeling any pain yesterday, so I’m not sure what’s going on. I can’t straighten my leg all the way though, so I’m not happy about it. I’m going to try some continued stretching and see if I can get out for a run this evening. This is a different kind of pain than I’ve ever felt before, so I’m not sure if running will be a really bad thing, or even an option. But I’ll give it a try.
Week 6 Summary: Goal 18 miles, with a 5.75 mile long run. I exceeded my long run with a 6 mile run, and met my miles goal. My pace for the week was 8:46.
Week 7 Goal: My goal for week 7 was 19 miles, with a long run being my 10k (6.22 miles).
Sunday, November 9 10k Summary: I finished the race in 54:27, which was just 2 seconds more than my goal. My Garmin shows me beating my goal for 6.22 miles, with 53:29, 9 seconds faster than my goal pace. That puts me just 2 seconds off 7 mph.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Coming along...
How the heck is it already November and just a handful of weeks away from 2009? This time of year always seems to fly by, and it amazes me how training pushes it along even faster. I’m in the middle of my sixth week of training, and yet it feels like I just started. Things seem to be progressing pretty well, although there are still a lot of runs, even the short ones, that are a real struggle. I know there comes a point, and usually it just happens one day, where four and five mile runs feel like a breeze. I’m still waiting for 3.5 mile runs to feel that way. But it will come. Running is all about consistency…and a little bit self-torture. You’ve got to love the feeling of finishing a run just a bit more than you love feeling like dying along the way.
I’m gearing up for my first 10k of the season in just four days. I don’t expect this to be my strongest 10k ever, but I’m going to give it my best. I just don’t want to set myself up for disappointment if my time hasn’t improved compared to past 10ks. I’ve set expectations that the 10k on Thanksgiving will be a stronger run for me. This will be my longest run yet this season, so just getting to the end takes a lot of effort. I did finish out a long run this morning of six miles, which is a definite boost to my confidence. Knowing I just have .22 miles further to run on Sunday makes it feel like a smaller task. And who knows, some days you can head out for a run and it’s just easy…other days it makes you beg for death…hopefully Sunday will be an easy day!
I did some comparing to see how I’m doing this year compared to last (I’ve kept some extensive logs the last 2 years of training). Last year my training was to last 18 weeks, whereas this year I’ve scheduled 16. My injury flared up in the 15th week, hence the shorter training. Both years I hit my long run of six miles in the sixth week. My first 10k last year wasn’t until the beginning of week eight, whereas this year it’s a week earlier. My pace this year is quite a bit faster too. My paces are about 5 to 15 seconds faster than the same weeks last year.
Week 5 Summary: Goal 13.5 miles in three runs, with a 5.25 mile long run. I finished out 13.5 miles at a pace of 8:54. I completed a long run of 5.5 miles which has pushed me .75 miles ahead of my scheduled long runs.
Week 6 Goal: I’m scheduled to run 18 miles this week with a long run of 5.75 miles.
Sunday, November 9th 10k Goal: My goal is to complete the race in 54:25 (8:45 minute miles).
I’m gearing up for my first 10k of the season in just four days. I don’t expect this to be my strongest 10k ever, but I’m going to give it my best. I just don’t want to set myself up for disappointment if my time hasn’t improved compared to past 10ks. I’ve set expectations that the 10k on Thanksgiving will be a stronger run for me. This will be my longest run yet this season, so just getting to the end takes a lot of effort. I did finish out a long run this morning of six miles, which is a definite boost to my confidence. Knowing I just have .22 miles further to run on Sunday makes it feel like a smaller task. And who knows, some days you can head out for a run and it’s just easy…other days it makes you beg for death…hopefully Sunday will be an easy day!
I did some comparing to see how I’m doing this year compared to last (I’ve kept some extensive logs the last 2 years of training). Last year my training was to last 18 weeks, whereas this year I’ve scheduled 16. My injury flared up in the 15th week, hence the shorter training. Both years I hit my long run of six miles in the sixth week. My first 10k last year wasn’t until the beginning of week eight, whereas this year it’s a week earlier. My pace this year is quite a bit faster too. My paces are about 5 to 15 seconds faster than the same weeks last year.
Week 5 Summary: Goal 13.5 miles in three runs, with a 5.25 mile long run. I finished out 13.5 miles at a pace of 8:54. I completed a long run of 5.5 miles which has pushed me .75 miles ahead of my scheduled long runs.
Week 6 Goal: I’m scheduled to run 18 miles this week with a long run of 5.75 miles.
Sunday, November 9th 10k Goal: My goal is to complete the race in 54:25 (8:45 minute miles).
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
A quarter of the way...
Well this is going to be short and sweet on account of being a very busy week. I’m off to Vegas tomorrow to partake in another Halloween of trouble…it’s my favorite time of year to go:) As such, assuming I won’t be running upon my return on Saturday night (just trying to be realistic), I scheduled just three runs this week. Originally I thought I could pile 4 runs in 5 days, but I know that’s the type of thing that leads me back to my knee injury. I have been feeling knee pain pretty regularly during runs, although it’s different than the IT Band issues, and it doesn’t last more than a mile or two. The pain runs across the top of my knee and it’s affected both knees on different runs. I guess with my history of knee problems it always scares me a bit when there’s the hint of any pain. Keeping my fingers crossed that it’s nothing to worry about (and don’t think for a second I’m sensible enough to let it stop me from running).
I completed my long run this morning, and it felt pretty good. I’ve continued pushing my long runs ahead of schedule by a bit, and finished out 5.5 miles. My target long run this week had been 4.75, and that extra three-quarters of a mile makes my 10k in 11 days a little less daunting. I did take a gel pack before my run, and hit the park at 3.5 miles to get some water. I really wonder if it’s the placebo effect, or if the gel really helps so much, but it sure seems to help my legs from getting fatigued.
Have a safe and fabulous Halloween guys!
Week 4 Summary: Goal 16 miles, 4.75 mile long run. I finished out 16 miles on the nose, but exceeded my long run goal with a 5 mile run. My pace thus far in training has been 8:57.
Week 5 Goal: My goal this week is to complete 13.5 miles in three runs. After exceeding my long run goal last week, I was aiming for 5.25 miles this week. I exceeded that with a 5.5 mile run this morning in 48:55 (a pace of 8:54).
I completed my long run this morning, and it felt pretty good. I’ve continued pushing my long runs ahead of schedule by a bit, and finished out 5.5 miles. My target long run this week had been 4.75, and that extra three-quarters of a mile makes my 10k in 11 days a little less daunting. I did take a gel pack before my run, and hit the park at 3.5 miles to get some water. I really wonder if it’s the placebo effect, or if the gel really helps so much, but it sure seems to help my legs from getting fatigued.
Have a safe and fabulous Halloween guys!
Week 4 Summary: Goal 16 miles, 4.75 mile long run. I finished out 16 miles on the nose, but exceeded my long run goal with a 5 mile run. My pace thus far in training has been 8:57.
Week 5 Goal: My goal this week is to complete 13.5 miles in three runs. After exceeding my long run goal last week, I was aiming for 5.25 miles this week. I exceeded that with a 5.5 mile run this morning in 48:55 (a pace of 8:54).
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Keep pushing on...
Last week was plum full of hard runs. Other than my first run, which also happened to be my long run, every time I got out there it felt like I had never done this before. Such is the life of a runner I guess…some days are definitely easier than others. The temps are still pretty warm, and I know once it cools down a bit everything will seem easier. I just keep reminding myself when I’m out there struggling that if every run I push myself a little further than I think I can go, eventually it will get easier…eventually.
I did get out last night for this week’s long run. Little tricky running at night in an area that isn’t all that well lit. My foot strike is always a little heavier and sloppier in trying to make sure I hit the ground without turning my ankle on whatever it is I may be landing on. It all probably slowed me down some, which may be why the run felt so much easier…at least from a cardio stand point. I did manage to push myself to 5 miles, exceeding my goal…and helping to get me closer to the 10k (6.22 miles) mark I’ll be required to hit in 18 days. A successful long run always boosts my confidence…and after the rough runs last week I needed it.
I’m trying to take better care of myself in preparation for my runs. Getting more sleep, eating well, not fatiguing my legs in work outs. I’m really trying to schedule my lower body workouts and runs in such a way my legs aren’t exhausted even before the run begins. If I overdo the resistance training, the next day it’s like trying to run with cement blocks on my feet. And goodness to the socializing…seriously, my friends are a lot of fun…and I have trouble saying no…doesn’t always make for the best running conditions the next morning…I’m working on it though:)
And I got myself some new shoes! They feel great…as I knew to expect since I went with the Adrenaline 8s again. The 9s don’t come out until January…and every other shoe I tried on felt too roomy in the toebox…so I stuck with old reliable. They fit so perfectly I haven’t had one hint of a blister or soreness. I really do heart my Brooks.
Congrats again to Brandi and Carissa! Way to go guys.
Week 3 Summary: Goal 15 miles, 4.25 mile long run. I completed a total of 15 miles, with a long run of 4.5 miles. My pace for the week was 8:54.
Week 4 Goal: My goal this week is to run 16 miles with a long run of 4.75 miles. I’d pushed my long run up a bit because I was ahead of schedule. I again exceeded my new long run goal last night with a 5 miles run.
I did get out last night for this week’s long run. Little tricky running at night in an area that isn’t all that well lit. My foot strike is always a little heavier and sloppier in trying to make sure I hit the ground without turning my ankle on whatever it is I may be landing on. It all probably slowed me down some, which may be why the run felt so much easier…at least from a cardio stand point. I did manage to push myself to 5 miles, exceeding my goal…and helping to get me closer to the 10k (6.22 miles) mark I’ll be required to hit in 18 days. A successful long run always boosts my confidence…and after the rough runs last week I needed it.
I’m trying to take better care of myself in preparation for my runs. Getting more sleep, eating well, not fatiguing my legs in work outs. I’m really trying to schedule my lower body workouts and runs in such a way my legs aren’t exhausted even before the run begins. If I overdo the resistance training, the next day it’s like trying to run with cement blocks on my feet. And goodness to the socializing…seriously, my friends are a lot of fun…and I have trouble saying no…doesn’t always make for the best running conditions the next morning…I’m working on it though:)
And I got myself some new shoes! They feel great…as I knew to expect since I went with the Adrenaline 8s again. The 9s don’t come out until January…and every other shoe I tried on felt too roomy in the toebox…so I stuck with old reliable. They fit so perfectly I haven’t had one hint of a blister or soreness. I really do heart my Brooks.
Congrats again to Brandi and Carissa! Way to go guys.
Week 3 Summary: Goal 15 miles, 4.25 mile long run. I completed a total of 15 miles, with a long run of 4.5 miles. My pace for the week was 8:54.
Week 4 Goal: My goal this week is to run 16 miles with a long run of 4.75 miles. I’d pushed my long run up a bit because I was ahead of schedule. I again exceeded my new long run goal last night with a 5 miles run.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Run Brandi Run!
Just wanted to pass along a good luck wish to Brandi Booze! She'll be running her first half marathon this Sunday in Ohio. I'm so excited for her big accomplishment and can't wait to hear how it goes. When you hit those points that feel impossible, Brandi, just remember how hard you've worked to get here...and know you absolutely positively can do it. Best of luck...let me know how it goes girlfriend! I'm so darn proud of you!
Monday, October 13, 2008
Finding focus...
So after two rather weak weeks of running, I’m forcing myself to get focused. With a shorter training period this year, I really need to get some distance added. And so far this week I’m off to a good start. I’ve already exceeded my long run goal for this week, pushing myself up to 4.5 miles today. That leaves me just 1.72 miles to add in the next 27 days for my first 10k (http://www.phoenix10k.com/). This event also offers a 5k run, walk and stroller push…so if you’re looking for an event, this could be the one. This was formerly the New Times 10k, and a pretty decent size event, plus it’s chipped, which I like.
For those of you who don’t know what a chipped race is…many races you wear a chip on your shoe. When you run over the mat at the starting line it starts your time. When you run over the mat at the finish line, it registers your finish. In big races that don’t have chips, and just use gun time, it’s not as accurate. If you’re well back in the crowd, you may not cross the starting line for a minute or two after the gun has been fired.
I’m off to finally buy some new running shoes tomorrow also. I’ve been running on my Adrenaline 8s since probably May, which is pushing the mileage. Getting a new pair now should be just about perfect for race day. You don’t want brand new shoes for a race, and yet running shoes only last so many miles before they really start breaking down…and that can lead to knee issues. They haven’t released Adrenaline 9s yet, and the shoe guy told me last year not to buy old models of shoes (the components inside the shoe harden and no longer function properly…and that contributes to injuries). I’ll be checking other Brooks models, but I may have to venture to something new altogether. I really do heart my Brooks though.
I want to mention a thank you to all for the support on my fundraising efforts this year. I’ve had a lot of positive feedback from everyone. I’ve also been told many stories of others loss to cancer…and some fantastic survival stories too. Many of these I was familiar with, but some I had no idea of. Goes to show the impact cancer has on everyone.
Week 2 Summary: Goal 11 miles, 4 mile long run. I ran exactly 11 miles, and completed a 4 mile long run. My overall pace so far is 8:59. My last run on Saturday was brutal, but I needed to get the miles in so I did it.
Week 3 Goal: My goal this week is four runs for a total of 15 miles. My long run goal is 4.25 miles, which I already exceeded today. Strange as it is, the 4.5 mile run today was my easiest run yet.
And a quick congrats to Sunny...she finished out another marathon in Cali yesterday...3:55. Way to go:)
For those of you who don’t know what a chipped race is…many races you wear a chip on your shoe. When you run over the mat at the starting line it starts your time. When you run over the mat at the finish line, it registers your finish. In big races that don’t have chips, and just use gun time, it’s not as accurate. If you’re well back in the crowd, you may not cross the starting line for a minute or two after the gun has been fired.
I’m off to finally buy some new running shoes tomorrow also. I’ve been running on my Adrenaline 8s since probably May, which is pushing the mileage. Getting a new pair now should be just about perfect for race day. You don’t want brand new shoes for a race, and yet running shoes only last so many miles before they really start breaking down…and that can lead to knee issues. They haven’t released Adrenaline 9s yet, and the shoe guy told me last year not to buy old models of shoes (the components inside the shoe harden and no longer function properly…and that contributes to injuries). I’ll be checking other Brooks models, but I may have to venture to something new altogether. I really do heart my Brooks though.
I want to mention a thank you to all for the support on my fundraising efforts this year. I’ve had a lot of positive feedback from everyone. I’ve also been told many stories of others loss to cancer…and some fantastic survival stories too. Many of these I was familiar with, but some I had no idea of. Goes to show the impact cancer has on everyone.
Week 2 Summary: Goal 11 miles, 4 mile long run. I ran exactly 11 miles, and completed a 4 mile long run. My overall pace so far is 8:59. My last run on Saturday was brutal, but I needed to get the miles in so I did it.
Week 3 Goal: My goal this week is four runs for a total of 15 miles. My long run goal is 4.25 miles, which I already exceeded today. Strange as it is, the 4.5 mile run today was my easiest run yet.
And a quick congrats to Sunny...she finished out another marathon in Cali yesterday...3:55. Way to go:)
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Running for Grandma...
I’m already slacking a little but for good reason. The last three weeks have been truly unbelievable…I welcomed a new nephew, attended my step-sister’s wedding back in MN, and said good bye to my Grandma Agar…the absolute best grandma ever. Last year I had intended to raise money for the ACS after my grandma was diagnosed. Somehow, I never got around to it. Well this year I’m motivated, and I’m motivated by my loss…and it’s going to require some assistance from you. I’ve lost many family members to cancer, including all four of my grandparents, and so I’ve signed up to be a runner for the American Cancer Society. I know most of you (if not all) have lost someone you love to cancer also, and I’d like to add them to my motivation.
You can support me with your donations on my ACS webpage:
Click here to visit my personal page.
I have been out for some runs since I started training on September 28th, although I’ve had the distractions of everything that has been going on. I returned to AZ yesterday to some cooler weather (if you can call 97 cooler), which I know will assist me in really starting to push myself. I have my first 10k (6.22 mile) in just four and a half weeks, so I really need to get my distance up in a hurry.
I’ll do a better job of posting my goals and results hereafter, so check back often.
Week 1 Summary: I completed three runs for a total of 10.75 miles. My long run was 3.75 miles, my average pace is 8:56.
Week 2 Goal: My goal this week is to complete three runs for 11 miles, with a long run of 4 miles. I was traveling Sunday, Monday and Tuesday of this week for my grandma’s funeral, so I’m cramming all of my runs into four days.
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I have been out for some runs since I started training on September 28th, although I’ve had the distractions of everything that has been going on. I returned to AZ yesterday to some cooler weather (if you can call 97 cooler), which I know will assist me in really starting to push myself. I have my first 10k (6.22 mile) in just four and a half weeks, so I really need to get my distance up in a hurry.
I’ll do a better job of posting my goals and results hereafter, so check back often.
Week 1 Summary: I completed three runs for a total of 10.75 miles. My long run was 3.75 miles, my average pace is 8:56.
Week 2 Goal: My goal this week is to complete three runs for 11 miles, with a long run of 4 miles. I was traveling Sunday, Monday and Tuesday of this week for my grandma’s funeral, so I’m cramming all of my runs into four days.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
I'm back!
Once again I’ll be blogging my progress on another half marathon. This year PF Changs is on Sunday, January 18, 2009…just a little more than 16 weeks away. In an attempt to avoid a repeat of last year’s injury, I’ve shortened my official training by 2 weeks. I’ve also spent much of the summer incorporating some of the tools that got me through the injury last winter. My biggest goal (and hope) is for an injury free training and race.
A little on the background of my injury and therapy since I never really got much into it back in January…I was diagnosed with IT Band Syndrome the last few weeks of training last year. It’s not an uncommon injury for runners, and it hasn’t been uncommon for me over the years (although this past episode was by far the most severe). I spent some time in physical therapy working on stretching and strengthening different muscles in my legs. After a while in the clinic my therapist cut me loose to work on things on my own. I also attempted a pair of orthotics, although they didn’t seem too beneficial. After several more weeks of continued pain and an inability to run, the doctor sent me in to have an MRI…these injuries usually clear up faster than mine was and he was concerned it could be a more significant injury. For the most part the results were good and my issues were the expected damage to my IT Band and some deterioration behind my knee (dr said that’s not that uncommon with runners either). So when asked what I can do the doctor shook his head, muttered something about “you runners” and told me “yeah, quit running, you all keep me busy.” So I gave it some more time to heal (sort of), and continued my foam roller and exercises from PT. Starting in the late spring I started getting back out for some slow short runs. As miserable as it is, I’ve spent all summer running outdoors. It requires getting up at 530a, and my runs are never more than 3.5 miles, but I’ve managed 2 to 3 a week, which isn’t too bad in 100 degree weather. I’ve also been very focused on building back in all the PT exercises on a consistent basis…and that foam roller and I are close friends.
So here I stand, just a few days before my official training. I’ve had relatively little knee pain throughout the summer, so I’m hopeful. I’ve got a couple of 10k races picked out prior to the big race. I’ve convinced a couple friends to at least consider training also (although for a 5k). In addition, I was diagnosed with a severely underactive thyroid this summer. This doesn’t sound like good news, but it explains so many problems I was having…the biggest being exhaustion. My doctor told me I could expect huge improvements to my endurance. I look forward to seeing how this affects my running results.
I appreciate all of your support through my training. Running is something I get so much out of, and I’m really looking forward to finishing the race this year.
A little on the background of my injury and therapy since I never really got much into it back in January…I was diagnosed with IT Band Syndrome the last few weeks of training last year. It’s not an uncommon injury for runners, and it hasn’t been uncommon for me over the years (although this past episode was by far the most severe). I spent some time in physical therapy working on stretching and strengthening different muscles in my legs. After a while in the clinic my therapist cut me loose to work on things on my own. I also attempted a pair of orthotics, although they didn’t seem too beneficial. After several more weeks of continued pain and an inability to run, the doctor sent me in to have an MRI…these injuries usually clear up faster than mine was and he was concerned it could be a more significant injury. For the most part the results were good and my issues were the expected damage to my IT Band and some deterioration behind my knee (dr said that’s not that uncommon with runners either). So when asked what I can do the doctor shook his head, muttered something about “you runners” and told me “yeah, quit running, you all keep me busy.” So I gave it some more time to heal (sort of), and continued my foam roller and exercises from PT. Starting in the late spring I started getting back out for some slow short runs. As miserable as it is, I’ve spent all summer running outdoors. It requires getting up at 530a, and my runs are never more than 3.5 miles, but I’ve managed 2 to 3 a week, which isn’t too bad in 100 degree weather. I’ve also been very focused on building back in all the PT exercises on a consistent basis…and that foam roller and I are close friends.
So here I stand, just a few days before my official training. I’ve had relatively little knee pain throughout the summer, so I’m hopeful. I’ve got a couple of 10k races picked out prior to the big race. I’ve convinced a couple friends to at least consider training also (although for a 5k). In addition, I was diagnosed with a severely underactive thyroid this summer. This doesn’t sound like good news, but it explains so many problems I was having…the biggest being exhaustion. My doctor told me I could expect huge improvements to my endurance. I look forward to seeing how this affects my running results.
I appreciate all of your support through my training. Running is something I get so much out of, and I’m really looking forward to finishing the race this year.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
No party for me:(
I’ve heard it said before that the race is the party…that the training is the hard part, but come race day it’s a celebration of all your hard work. Sadly, despite all my hard work and months of training I have to miss the party:( I attempted to get back out for a short run last Thursday, but almost immediately the pain was undeniable. Something I most certainly couldn’t run through, in fact another stride was nearly impossible. So I came home, had a good sob, and stretched on the foam roller. The next day I stretched some more, and decided to try again (denial is a beautiful thing). This time I made it just a few feet before I had to stop. This time I came home, cried a little more and called the orthopedic doctor. I pretty much knew at this point there wouldn’t be a PF Changs finish for me in 2008. It’s been so incredibly upsetting, especially since when I’m not running everything feels great.
So I went to the doctor this past Monday. They took x-rays, and confirmed that there are no stress fractures or other bone issues. As I suspected, I was diagnosed with IT Band Syndrome. The x-rays also showed the bone structure in my knees is extremely pronated (which basically means my knees roll inward more so than normal). The doctor prescribed me to physical therapy. So off to Torrey I headed this morning. In his evaluation he confirmed the tightness of my IT Band. The IT Band is the tendon that runs from your hip to just below your knee on the outside of your leg. In running, often times this band gets extremely tight. When you pronate it can rub against the outside of your knee causing inflammation that is extremely painful. This is a pretty common diagnosis in runners. My treatment plan is to strengthen my glutes and quads, and a bit of my hamstrings enough to take the stress off the IT Band, as well as stretching my calf muscles and the IT Band. Stretching this tendon is not as easy as stretching muscles. Basically deep massage and the foam roller (which is extremely painful, although it doesn’t look like it) are the only two options.
I have to wonder if the reason for the knee pain flaring up recently is the lack of lower body workouts I’ve done in the past several months. Starting in early November, my gym workouts severely tapered, and by December I wasn’t doing much resistance training at all. I became so focused on running that I may have let some (all) or my cross-training subside. I’m going to keep this as a lesson for future training.
So, as sad as it is, I won’t be running the PF Changs this weekend. I will be there to cheer others on. I'm envious of how great they will all feel crossing that finish line. I only wish I could do the same.
I am aiming for running the half in Mesa on March 9. It’s not nearly the event that PF Changs is, but it’s the best I can do for now. I’ll continue to update this with my progress.
Week 17 Summary: I hoped to get out and run again. Although I made the effort, I came to realize my current training was over. My injury will prevent me from reaching my goals for the PF Changs race.
Week 18 Goal: To continue healing, and to be the best darn spectator at the PF Changs race on Sunday. I’m going to commit myself to the exercises and stretches given to me at PT, and get back out there in time to complete the Valley of the Sun Half in March. This Sunday I will focus all my attention on supporting everyone else to the finish line. Hopefully next year it'll be me!
So I went to the doctor this past Monday. They took x-rays, and confirmed that there are no stress fractures or other bone issues. As I suspected, I was diagnosed with IT Band Syndrome. The x-rays also showed the bone structure in my knees is extremely pronated (which basically means my knees roll inward more so than normal). The doctor prescribed me to physical therapy. So off to Torrey I headed this morning. In his evaluation he confirmed the tightness of my IT Band. The IT Band is the tendon that runs from your hip to just below your knee on the outside of your leg. In running, often times this band gets extremely tight. When you pronate it can rub against the outside of your knee causing inflammation that is extremely painful. This is a pretty common diagnosis in runners. My treatment plan is to strengthen my glutes and quads, and a bit of my hamstrings enough to take the stress off the IT Band, as well as stretching my calf muscles and the IT Band. Stretching this tendon is not as easy as stretching muscles. Basically deep massage and the foam roller (which is extremely painful, although it doesn’t look like it) are the only two options.
I have to wonder if the reason for the knee pain flaring up recently is the lack of lower body workouts I’ve done in the past several months. Starting in early November, my gym workouts severely tapered, and by December I wasn’t doing much resistance training at all. I became so focused on running that I may have let some (all) or my cross-training subside. I’m going to keep this as a lesson for future training.
So, as sad as it is, I won’t be running the PF Changs this weekend. I will be there to cheer others on. I'm envious of how great they will all feel crossing that finish line. I only wish I could do the same.
I am aiming for running the half in Mesa on March 9. It’s not nearly the event that PF Changs is, but it’s the best I can do for now. I’ll continue to update this with my progress.
Week 17 Summary: I hoped to get out and run again. Although I made the effort, I came to realize my current training was over. My injury will prevent me from reaching my goals for the PF Changs race.
Week 18 Goal: To continue healing, and to be the best darn spectator at the PF Changs race on Sunday. I’m going to commit myself to the exercises and stretches given to me at PT, and get back out there in time to complete the Valley of the Sun Half in March. This Sunday I will focus all my attention on supporting everyone else to the finish line. Hopefully next year it'll be me!
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Just a week and a half to go...
Down to just 11 days until the big race! I still have yet to get back out for a run. I decided I didn’t want to push it. I know the best thing for my knee is time to heal. So I’ve sat out for the last 11 days. I’m just champing at the bit to get back at it, but I’m practicing patience.
I had the opportunity to get some good advice from Torrey over the weekend (thank you!). He’s a physical therapist, so I trust his suggestions will be my best bet. I’ll be out purchasing a foam roller to stretch out my IT band later today. He suggested doing that daily. In addition, I’m going to be trying out a different shoe as soon as I finish this race. It’s kind of tough to break in a new pair in a few runs. I’ve been running on Brooks for the past year and a half, and have really liked them. I did recently get a new pair, however, and although they’re the same style, I do notice they fit my foot a little differently. The new shoes could have been the start of my problems. I’m going to run on an older pair through the rest of training and for the race.
I also started a little research into some races after PF Changs. I’ve picked out another 10k to run on February 10th. I’m also considering another half marathon in March. I’m still on the fence, but if I can keep my conditioning going for another two months it could be easy preparation. If my knee bothers me during the PF Changs, it may give me another opportunity for a good half marathon run. We’ll see.
Week 16 Summary: To heal, and to run again. I’ve taken a week and a half off to give my knee the rest it needs.
Week 17 Goal: To run again. I’m hoping to get out for a very short run tomorrow. I’m hoping to build from there, so that by the weekend I can finish out a long run. After that I’ll be running just a few short runs prior to the race in just 11 days.
I had the opportunity to get some good advice from Torrey over the weekend (thank you!). He’s a physical therapist, so I trust his suggestions will be my best bet. I’ll be out purchasing a foam roller to stretch out my IT band later today. He suggested doing that daily. In addition, I’m going to be trying out a different shoe as soon as I finish this race. It’s kind of tough to break in a new pair in a few runs. I’ve been running on Brooks for the past year and a half, and have really liked them. I did recently get a new pair, however, and although they’re the same style, I do notice they fit my foot a little differently. The new shoes could have been the start of my problems. I’m going to run on an older pair through the rest of training and for the race.
I also started a little research into some races after PF Changs. I’ve picked out another 10k to run on February 10th. I’m also considering another half marathon in March. I’m still on the fence, but if I can keep my conditioning going for another two months it could be easy preparation. If my knee bothers me during the PF Changs, it may give me another opportunity for a good half marathon run. We’ll see.
Week 16 Summary: To heal, and to run again. I’ve taken a week and a half off to give my knee the rest it needs.
Week 17 Goal: To run again. I’m hoping to get out for a very short run tomorrow. I’m hoping to build from there, so that by the weekend I can finish out a long run. After that I’ll be running just a few short runs prior to the race in just 11 days.
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