Monday, March 18, 2013
Week 11: 30 miles and New Bedford long run
Couple spin classes, a lifting class, a run on the roads in Keene including Chapman Hill and then the half marathon in New Bedford Sunday. Pretty solid week, the first in awhile. I was pretty nervous going into the half marathon Sunday that I would totally tank and hate it, but I went out conservatively, was honest with myself that I really hadn't been running, and decided that I just needed the long run. It was a beautiful day- it amazes me that this race always has great weather- especially considering the snow coming tonight! It was windy though. I went out real conservative- started 3 minutes back- mainly because I was still in line for hte portopotty during the national anthem. I thought the first mile was going to be over 10 minutes but it was 8:40 and I felt like it was easy. I didn't waste a lot of energy trying to get around people but rather just let it be. I knew the first 3 miles were hilly (although I always forget about the two smaller hills before the killer at mile 3). My plan was to run slow and then pick up a bit if I felt like it for miles 4-8- slightly downhill or flat. I felt pretty good- and didn't push it at all. Picked up a couple 8-8:15 miles in there. Got to 9 and still felt good surprisingly! Only thing bugging me were two blisters on the balls of my feet (great, I'd been running so little my feet were soft!) I could feel the skin being pulled and then resucking to my foot with every step. Really was annoying and quite painful after awhile, but my body felt good and I decided I should pick it up the last 3 miles and just get done close to what I ran last year. Well we made the turn to head into mile 10 and unfortunately also headed into the wind! It's not usually windy at this point, but this year it was and I found it hard to pick it up because my feet were burning iwth the extra push needed due to the wind. So I accepted that and just kept going- a little slower, but with a good effort. I knew that hill was coming and felt pretty good still going up it! I finished at 1:53 (8:38 pace), way off the PR, but not bad for no training whatsoever. I even had enough pep to run back to the car, but boy my feet were hurting!! We ate the chowda and fish sandwiches and headed home. It was a good day and I don't think we vowed never to do that race again like usual, we'll see. My blisters feel a little better this morning. I'm a little shocked at how sore I am NOT. But like I said I was conservative and didn't want to get myself injured. Ended up being a good workout and a good motivator. Might have to snow shoe tomorrow! It's a process and I love it!
Friday, March 15, 2013
New Motivation
So I haven't been motivated to run a lot of miles- I'm lucky I've been logging anything at all. Work has been nuts, but I'm getting a handle on it, so that's no excuse. I just haven't been motivated. I don't know how else to put it. It's been a relief to just accept it. I know it'll change. I've been going to my lifting class and to spin classes and running enough to get a work out and that has sustained me, for now. I have dropped a few pounds. I have a few more to go to get to a racing weight, but with no race in sight I haven't worried about it. Well that changed today.
Greg decided he was doing the Mt Washington Road Race this year. Great- I'll never get him to hike it with me so I decided to put in for the lottery (never thinking in a million years I'd get in). Well, I got in. I'm happy because it'll be "fun" and beautiful (hopefully good weather) and it'll give me a reason to do the other mountain series races. I don't feel like I have to do a ton of miles and my friend and I were thinking about maybe working on our 5K times. I want to do another marathon - no doubt, but maybe I should wait another year. Mountains and 5Ks may be the focus this summer- who knows maybe I'll suddenly be in some kind of shape for a fall marathon. There's time and always another race. (Nevermind the half marathon this weekend- let's just hope I finish under 2 hours). It's a process, and I still love it!
Greg decided he was doing the Mt Washington Road Race this year. Great- I'll never get him to hike it with me so I decided to put in for the lottery (never thinking in a million years I'd get in). Well, I got in. I'm happy because it'll be "fun" and beautiful (hopefully good weather) and it'll give me a reason to do the other mountain series races. I don't feel like I have to do a ton of miles and my friend and I were thinking about maybe working on our 5K times. I want to do another marathon - no doubt, but maybe I should wait another year. Mountains and 5Ks may be the focus this summer- who knows maybe I'll suddenly be in some kind of shape for a fall marathon. There's time and always another race. (Nevermind the half marathon this weekend- let's just hope I finish under 2 hours). It's a process, and I still love it!
Week 3-10: 161 Miles
Week 3: 30 miles
First snowshoe race with Greg and Ferenc - Hoot, Toot, and Whistle. FUN! It was a beautiful day, a pretty easy course, and a doable 3 miles. A perfect introduction to snowshoe racing. On Sunday Grif and I had our own epic adventure in Pisgah State Park. We ventured out to Snow Brook Trail and took it to the end and back. No snowshoes, just hard packed snow. another beautiful day. I can't wait to get on this trail when the snow is gone!
Week 4: 18 miles
Grif was very limpy this week, I guess our adventure was too long for her ;(. But she was better within the week and has been great ever since. This is where I start doing a lot of treadmill because I can't stand leaving Grif behind at the house. Been going to the strength class on Tuesdays- it's called "anything goes" and it is just that- mostly strength stuff but includes sprints sometimes, ball tossing, and interval work. Good stuff.
Week 5: 33 miles
Grif was better this week. So much better that when I did a couple runs "with" Greg she as able to come back and check on me like usual. So cute.
Week 6: 8 miles
Another snowshoe race- this time at Prospect Mtn. Antoher beautiful day, not as easy a course (up to the summit and back down for 5.4 miles), but pretty. I had a good attitude and didn't stress myself out about the "race" but enjoyed the day. It worked. It was great.
Week 7: 13 miles
Treadmill and spin classes. I've been trying to do a day of running drills each week.
Week 8: 19 miles
Just more treadmill, spin classes, and a beautiful Sunday run with Griffin on new snow. (Instead of DH Jones)
Week 9: 21 miles
Greg had break this week, so we got to go on two morning runs together- with Griffin running in between again. We get like 6 miles and she gets 8! Another snowshoe race- Hawley Kiln. I only made it a mile in before I had some stomach issues and decided I shouldn't get too far away. By the time I got back out to the snowmobile trail (the single track was TOUGH) I felt a little better and ran a mile or so on my own before getting back to see Greg finish. I missed that. Oh well. It was a cold day but the amount of snow up there was awesome!
Week 10: 19 miles
Did my first road race of the year- the Spring Ahead 3 miler. I knew this was not going to be a stellar day, but I had to get on the roads and my friend wanted to go, so whatever. We had a good day. I ran 23:15 (7:45pace) and was happy with it. We did a long warmup and another mile cooldown so I finally got some road miles. I was third female master and would've been second Philly but I declined to mark that on my app! I shouldn't be a Philly! :O anyway, I'm not as far off as I thought, so maybe it'll motivate me to get going.
the next day we did our final snowshoe race- another at Mt Prospect (5.7ish miles). Not to the summit but it was a killer course! I went in with the same laid back attitude and took a lot of pictures and video. That was a long one. But another gorgeous day and it was fun to play in the snow as we look toward spring. I was glad to get back in time to see the Newfoundland dogs! They were soooo cute! And Big!
First snowshoe race with Greg and Ferenc - Hoot, Toot, and Whistle. FUN! It was a beautiful day, a pretty easy course, and a doable 3 miles. A perfect introduction to snowshoe racing. On Sunday Grif and I had our own epic adventure in Pisgah State Park. We ventured out to Snow Brook Trail and took it to the end and back. No snowshoes, just hard packed snow. another beautiful day. I can't wait to get on this trail when the snow is gone!
Week 4: 18 miles
Grif was very limpy this week, I guess our adventure was too long for her ;(. But she was better within the week and has been great ever since. This is where I start doing a lot of treadmill because I can't stand leaving Grif behind at the house. Been going to the strength class on Tuesdays- it's called "anything goes" and it is just that- mostly strength stuff but includes sprints sometimes, ball tossing, and interval work. Good stuff.
Week 5: 33 miles
Grif was better this week. So much better that when I did a couple runs "with" Greg she as able to come back and check on me like usual. So cute.
Week 6: 8 miles
Another snowshoe race- this time at Prospect Mtn. Antoher beautiful day, not as easy a course (up to the summit and back down for 5.4 miles), but pretty. I had a good attitude and didn't stress myself out about the "race" but enjoyed the day. It worked. It was great.
Week 7: 13 miles
Treadmill and spin classes. I've been trying to do a day of running drills each week.
Week 8: 19 miles
Just more treadmill, spin classes, and a beautiful Sunday run with Griffin on new snow. (Instead of DH Jones)
Week 9: 21 miles
Greg had break this week, so we got to go on two morning runs together- with Griffin running in between again. We get like 6 miles and she gets 8! Another snowshoe race- Hawley Kiln. I only made it a mile in before I had some stomach issues and decided I shouldn't get too far away. By the time I got back out to the snowmobile trail (the single track was TOUGH) I felt a little better and ran a mile or so on my own before getting back to see Greg finish. I missed that. Oh well. It was a cold day but the amount of snow up there was awesome!
Week 10: 19 miles
Did my first road race of the year- the Spring Ahead 3 miler. I knew this was not going to be a stellar day, but I had to get on the roads and my friend wanted to go, so whatever. We had a good day. I ran 23:15 (7:45pace) and was happy with it. We did a long warmup and another mile cooldown so I finally got some road miles. I was third female master and would've been second Philly but I declined to mark that on my app! I shouldn't be a Philly! :O anyway, I'm not as far off as I thought, so maybe it'll motivate me to get going.
the next day we did our final snowshoe race- another at Mt Prospect (5.7ish miles). Not to the summit but it was a killer course! I went in with the same laid back attitude and took a lot of pictures and video. That was a long one. But another gorgeous day and it was fun to play in the snow as we look toward spring. I was glad to get back in time to see the Newfoundland dogs! They were soooo cute! And Big!
Sunday, January 13, 2013
Week 2: 34 miles
Mon: 6 miles roads from YMCA
Tue: Anything Goes Class
Wed: 6 mi TM ; Spin class PM
Thu: 6 mi roads while doing laundry; 4 hill sprints on Wildwood
Fri: 2 mi TM + 1 mile YMCA track with drills
Sat: Pisgah with Grif, LOG 8
Sun: 5 mi TM
Not a bad week...increased mileage a little bit while keeping a spin class in the mix. Also did hill sprints and drills - I think they are really helping my strength and stride efficiency. Feel like I'm getting a little weight off and can feel my fitness slowly making an appearance...very slowly. Will try to keep the drills/hills in next week while getting a few more miles. Can get to a couple spin classes this week before school starts- won't have time when classes/lax begin so I need to take advantage of it while I can. It's a process, and I love it.
Tue: Anything Goes Class
Wed: 6 mi TM ; Spin class PM
Thu: 6 mi roads while doing laundry; 4 hill sprints on Wildwood
Fri: 2 mi TM + 1 mile YMCA track with drills
Sat: Pisgah with Grif, LOG 8
Sun: 5 mi TM
Not a bad week...increased mileage a little bit while keeping a spin class in the mix. Also did hill sprints and drills - I think they are really helping my strength and stride efficiency. Feel like I'm getting a little weight off and can feel my fitness slowly making an appearance...very slowly. Will try to keep the drills/hills in next week while getting a few more miles. Can get to a couple spin classes this week before school starts- won't have time when classes/lax begin so I need to take advantage of it while I can. It's a process, and I love it.
Sunday, January 6, 2013
Week 1: 29
On new years day I went for my first snowshoe run of the year with Griffin. We did an out and back on the 4-H trail and made a stop at the beaver pond. I wore Gregs snowshoes and felt surprisingly good. It was a nice day and a nice start to the new year.
Thursday did my running drills with some treadmill followed by a spin class in the evening. Saturday I ran with Ramona up Gunn road...a long, good hill that I can get to from KSC and will use for future workouts.
Today I went back out in my new snowshoes with Griffin. We did an out and back on South Woods for 6 miles. Narrowly missed some snowmobilers as we went from Horseshoe Road onto south woods - Grffin hates snowmobiles and has a tendency to chase them in full greyhound mode. Didn't pass any on the way out either. Whew!
Work starts up tomorrow...will try to ease into it while also increasing mileage. It's a process, a new year, and I love it!
Thursday did my running drills with some treadmill followed by a spin class in the evening. Saturday I ran with Ramona up Gunn road...a long, good hill that I can get to from KSC and will use for future workouts.
Today I went back out in my new snowshoes with Griffin. We did an out and back on South Woods for 6 miles. Narrowly missed some snowmobilers as we went from Horseshoe Road onto south woods - Grffin hates snowmobiles and has a tendency to chase them in full greyhound mode. Didn't pass any on the way out either. Whew!
Work starts up tomorrow...will try to ease into it while also increasing mileage. It's a process, a new year, and I love it!
2012 roundup and the new year....
Couldn't bust out another 20 miles for an even 1600 miles for the year, but still my highest miles in the last three years of keeping track (1580).
Made it to 1000 miles 7 weeks faster than 2010 (don't know when in 2011);
21 races (3 fewer than in 2010), only one PR (Pisgah 23K), but two new distances- the marathon and 25K.
The marathon has to be the highlight of my year. I went out like gang busters at the beginning of last year and it paid off. That's not happening this year. I do want to do another marathon, but will wait til the fall when hopefully I will have a better handle on work.
For the new year I am a little up in the air as far as specific goals. Work is going to be brutal this spring with teaching 3 classes that are new to me and covering lacrosse which starts january 28th. I know I could PR in the half marathon someday and would like to get my 5K under 22 minutes. But I feel like I'll have to attack each goal seprately and do some really specific training. Not sure I am up for it.
So as the year starts I am just taking day to day. I am super psyched about snow shoe running and even got some new Atlas Run snow shoes- love them- they are pictured above and I plan to sleep in them much to Gregs dismay. Mainly I want to get a few more pounds off and see what my schedule brings me. I have DH Jones, New Bedford, and Caumsett 25K on my running schedule so I better start running more miles! Maybe work on the 5K after New Bedford. Eh who knows. I guess I'll just try to stay healthy and happy while things work themselves out. This is supposed to be fun afterall. It's a process, with little focus, but I love it!
Made it to 1000 miles 7 weeks faster than 2010 (don't know when in 2011);
21 races (3 fewer than in 2010), only one PR (Pisgah 23K), but two new distances- the marathon and 25K.
The marathon has to be the highlight of my year. I went out like gang busters at the beginning of last year and it paid off. That's not happening this year. I do want to do another marathon, but will wait til the fall when hopefully I will have a better handle on work.
For the new year I am a little up in the air as far as specific goals. Work is going to be brutal this spring with teaching 3 classes that are new to me and covering lacrosse which starts january 28th. I know I could PR in the half marathon someday and would like to get my 5K under 22 minutes. But I feel like I'll have to attack each goal seprately and do some really specific training. Not sure I am up for it.
So as the year starts I am just taking day to day. I am super psyched about snow shoe running and even got some new Atlas Run snow shoes- love them- they are pictured above and I plan to sleep in them much to Gregs dismay. Mainly I want to get a few more pounds off and see what my schedule brings me. I have DH Jones, New Bedford, and Caumsett 25K on my running schedule so I better start running more miles! Maybe work on the 5K after New Bedford. Eh who knows. I guess I'll just try to stay healthy and happy while things work themselves out. This is supposed to be fun afterall. It's a process, with little focus, but I love it!
Weeks 46-52
Week 46: 22 miles and Lil Rhody (1:10)
One spin class, an anything goes class, minimal road running, and a couple runs in Pisgah with Griffin. End of the week we were in Rhode Island to kick off the holidays with our "Rhode Island Thanksgiving" with Gregs family. Of course, this includes the Lil Rhody Runaround. It was a nice day. I didn't run as well as I wanted- or could expect really, but I didn't wipe out like a couple other people did and I did better than last year. Still not a PR though. Maybe next year. Greg won again and we all ended up at Jonny's for dinner afterward before the drive back to NH.
Week 47: 18 miles and Pie and Glove 5K (23:05)
Hit the row machine again nad elliptical, anything goes class, Pisgah with Grif and a spin class. Also went to NY where we ran the Pie and Glove 5K in Corning again for Thanksgiving. Not quite the family affair like in Rhode Island...maybe next year we'll get more family out there, but as it was it was just me and Greg. Greg had a great race and I felt okay about mine too. Not a PR- although the perfect place and weather to do so. But considering my lack of training I think it was good- even out kicked someone at the end...gotta try to do that more often, didn't know I had it in me. Was one place shy of a pie - thankfully. I had been maintaining my weight all fall, so I thought, and got on the scale and almost lost my mind. Ooops! Not a fun feeling right beofre the holidays, but I will have time for doubles once school is out. Anyway, we did get the family out for a hike in the Finger Lakes National Forest - that was fun. They host a 50K every summer that we may have to consider- usually close to July 4th though. We'll explore more of that area in the future I hope.
Week 48: 32 miles and Pearl Harbor Masters 5+ Road Race
More row and elliptical, hills on TM, 4 hill sprints, Pisgah with Grif (and Greg), and another trip to RI. On friday afternoons I like to get home early so that I can go running "with" Greg in Pisgah. Griffin thinks this is especially fun. She has taken to starting out with Greg and then feels like she has to come back and check on me. It just warms my heart when I see her on a hill looking down at me. It's especially cute when I come around a corner of a turn onto a trail and she's there making sure I have gone the right way! Once I acknowledge her she takes off for Greggie again (not usually catching him before needing to check on me again) Greg and I will run 8 miles while she probably gets 12! Fast! It's wonderful, but it is getting tough on her- although she wouldn't admit that. I wish I had an owl's view of her running on the trails through the forest by herself in between me a Greg. I can't imagine what someone would think if they ran into her- but if someone was out there she'd come and be at my side immediately- always the protector. Anyway, we trraveled to RI for the URI blue/white meet for Greg to run in. It was fun to watch and then we hung out with Matty P and Jill for dinner. The next day I got to do a Master's only race with Pard. Greg ran along side me while Pard proceeded to kick my ass. I did outkick someone again to win my age group. Didn't run tough - Just not that into these days. Decent mileage comapratively though.
Week 49: 15 miles and Jingle Bell 5K Run in Concord (23:41)
Cardio machines, couple spin classes, anything goes and one run in Pisgah. Can't rememebr what was going on this week that kept me from running much. It was the last week of classes and therefore hectic. The "anything goes" classes I've been taking on Tuesday mornings is a class at the YMCA in which Bre (instructor) has us do whatever she wants. Most of the time it is strength- weight I wouldn't normally do myself. She's a hater when it comes to running, but as long as I say the weight lifting helps my running she tolerates my talk of mileage- although I try to avoid it. I do think it helps alot, but my other day of strength is more runner specific and will include drills. This week she had us (it's me an one other person) doing sprints in the gym- again not something I'd do on my own, but probably should. Anyway, it's a good class and I hope it continues in the new year and maybe will have a couple more people.
This week we also went to the Jingle Bell Run in Concord. This is my 5K PR (22:43) course and I won my age group last year. Unfortunately now that I am in another age group it was unlikely that I'd repeat. For some reason this race is packed with 40 something females that are way faster than me. So I wasn't too concerned about place but like this course. It was a really cold, wet day, so I wanted to see if I could at least get close to the Pie and Glove time I had run a couple weeks before on a flat course in perfect weather. Well, not to be. I didn't have any kick this week even though the couple females ahead were close enough for the taking. I was about 36 seconds slower than in Corning. I was tenth overall female....in the top 10, 6 were 40 or older (a 50 yo beat me), including the overall female winner. The rest were in the early twenties and teenagers. The first 30 something was a couple minutes behind me. Funny. I ended up taking third in my age group since they didn't double awards for the overall 3 and got a cool water bottle. haha Greg won again, but not near his time in Corning either. Overall, for some reason we like this race and will probably do it again.
Week 50: 29 miles
Ahh classes ended this week. Last week couldn't have gone any slower. Now to get some weight off. Doubled 3 times this week- meaning I ran in the morning and did a spin class in the evening. Six hill sprints. Got into Pisgah 3 times including Sunday in which we ran in our first flurries of the season. Sundays I usually reserve for a strength/cycling class. Bre- yes, the same girl from Anything Goes class, does a combination class of strength for 45 minutes and then a spin class right afterward. It's awesome. The weights are usually bodyweight, stability ball, or light weight in nature because of the number of people. It's a good workout though- and the spin class afterward usually wards of any soreness that might otherwise occur. It puts me in a predicament about where to put my long run in my week, but I'll deal with that later....gotta deal with these pounds first! However, this sunday I couldn't say no to Griffin's little face and the chance to run in flurries in the woods. It was beautiful. Bring on winter.
Week 51: 32 miles
More doubling with spin classes and sometimes treadmill. Anything Goes class included sprints on the track. Started a new "drills" workout at the YMCA. The Y has an indoor track in which 12 laps is a mile. So I warm up for 3 laps then do a different drill at the shorter ends of the track on the next 6 laps and then do 3 laps. I have two miles worth of drills: walking lunges, high knees, bounding, lateral band walks, etc. I hope to do that weekly. On Sunday we began the holiday travels to NY but first we run. So Greg was going to run in Pisgah and I decided to run through Pisgah and then around via Horseshoe road and back to our house on roads. Well, Greg told me later that Griffin didn't like this at first and as I went the upper road to the Horseshoe parking lot and Greg went the lower road into the park she decided to sprint ahead to where she could take another trail that intersects with the one I was on. Don't tell me she doesn't know the trails! So cute. Anyway, Greg stopped her and then went on their way into the park while I made my way around on the roads. It was a nice run before a long drive to NY.
Week 52: 18 miles and 1580 miles for the year.
Only ran once on the orads in Corning NY with Griffin then made it back for a spin class. Thursday we got our first snow storm so I did a couple DVDs at home (Tae Bo anyone?) . Got out with Ramona on Saturday for a run on my old marathon training route to Surry Dam. Low key week.
That's the year. It's a process, and I love it!!
One spin class, an anything goes class, minimal road running, and a couple runs in Pisgah with Griffin. End of the week we were in Rhode Island to kick off the holidays with our "Rhode Island Thanksgiving" with Gregs family. Of course, this includes the Lil Rhody Runaround. It was a nice day. I didn't run as well as I wanted- or could expect really, but I didn't wipe out like a couple other people did and I did better than last year. Still not a PR though. Maybe next year. Greg won again and we all ended up at Jonny's for dinner afterward before the drive back to NH.
Week 47: 18 miles and Pie and Glove 5K (23:05)
Hit the row machine again nad elliptical, anything goes class, Pisgah with Grif and a spin class. Also went to NY where we ran the Pie and Glove 5K in Corning again for Thanksgiving. Not quite the family affair like in Rhode Island...maybe next year we'll get more family out there, but as it was it was just me and Greg. Greg had a great race and I felt okay about mine too. Not a PR- although the perfect place and weather to do so. But considering my lack of training I think it was good- even out kicked someone at the end...gotta try to do that more often, didn't know I had it in me. Was one place shy of a pie - thankfully. I had been maintaining my weight all fall, so I thought, and got on the scale and almost lost my mind. Ooops! Not a fun feeling right beofre the holidays, but I will have time for doubles once school is out. Anyway, we did get the family out for a hike in the Finger Lakes National Forest - that was fun. They host a 50K every summer that we may have to consider- usually close to July 4th though. We'll explore more of that area in the future I hope.
Week 48: 32 miles and Pearl Harbor Masters 5+ Road Race
More row and elliptical, hills on TM, 4 hill sprints, Pisgah with Grif (and Greg), and another trip to RI. On friday afternoons I like to get home early so that I can go running "with" Greg in Pisgah. Griffin thinks this is especially fun. She has taken to starting out with Greg and then feels like she has to come back and check on me. It just warms my heart when I see her on a hill looking down at me. It's especially cute when I come around a corner of a turn onto a trail and she's there making sure I have gone the right way! Once I acknowledge her she takes off for Greggie again (not usually catching him before needing to check on me again) Greg and I will run 8 miles while she probably gets 12! Fast! It's wonderful, but it is getting tough on her- although she wouldn't admit that. I wish I had an owl's view of her running on the trails through the forest by herself in between me a Greg. I can't imagine what someone would think if they ran into her- but if someone was out there she'd come and be at my side immediately- always the protector. Anyway, we trraveled to RI for the URI blue/white meet for Greg to run in. It was fun to watch and then we hung out with Matty P and Jill for dinner. The next day I got to do a Master's only race with Pard. Greg ran along side me while Pard proceeded to kick my ass. I did outkick someone again to win my age group. Didn't run tough - Just not that into these days. Decent mileage comapratively though.
Week 49: 15 miles and Jingle Bell 5K Run in Concord (23:41)
Cardio machines, couple spin classes, anything goes and one run in Pisgah. Can't rememebr what was going on this week that kept me from running much. It was the last week of classes and therefore hectic. The "anything goes" classes I've been taking on Tuesday mornings is a class at the YMCA in which Bre (instructor) has us do whatever she wants. Most of the time it is strength- weight I wouldn't normally do myself. She's a hater when it comes to running, but as long as I say the weight lifting helps my running she tolerates my talk of mileage- although I try to avoid it. I do think it helps alot, but my other day of strength is more runner specific and will include drills. This week she had us (it's me an one other person) doing sprints in the gym- again not something I'd do on my own, but probably should. Anyway, it's a good class and I hope it continues in the new year and maybe will have a couple more people.
This week we also went to the Jingle Bell Run in Concord. This is my 5K PR (22:43) course and I won my age group last year. Unfortunately now that I am in another age group it was unlikely that I'd repeat. For some reason this race is packed with 40 something females that are way faster than me. So I wasn't too concerned about place but like this course. It was a really cold, wet day, so I wanted to see if I could at least get close to the Pie and Glove time I had run a couple weeks before on a flat course in perfect weather. Well, not to be. I didn't have any kick this week even though the couple females ahead were close enough for the taking. I was about 36 seconds slower than in Corning. I was tenth overall female....in the top 10, 6 were 40 or older (a 50 yo beat me), including the overall female winner. The rest were in the early twenties and teenagers. The first 30 something was a couple minutes behind me. Funny. I ended up taking third in my age group since they didn't double awards for the overall 3 and got a cool water bottle. haha Greg won again, but not near his time in Corning either. Overall, for some reason we like this race and will probably do it again.
Week 50: 29 miles
Ahh classes ended this week. Last week couldn't have gone any slower. Now to get some weight off. Doubled 3 times this week- meaning I ran in the morning and did a spin class in the evening. Six hill sprints. Got into Pisgah 3 times including Sunday in which we ran in our first flurries of the season. Sundays I usually reserve for a strength/cycling class. Bre- yes, the same girl from Anything Goes class, does a combination class of strength for 45 minutes and then a spin class right afterward. It's awesome. The weights are usually bodyweight, stability ball, or light weight in nature because of the number of people. It's a good workout though- and the spin class afterward usually wards of any soreness that might otherwise occur. It puts me in a predicament about where to put my long run in my week, but I'll deal with that later....gotta deal with these pounds first! However, this sunday I couldn't say no to Griffin's little face and the chance to run in flurries in the woods. It was beautiful. Bring on winter.
Week 51: 32 miles
More doubling with spin classes and sometimes treadmill. Anything Goes class included sprints on the track. Started a new "drills" workout at the YMCA. The Y has an indoor track in which 12 laps is a mile. So I warm up for 3 laps then do a different drill at the shorter ends of the track on the next 6 laps and then do 3 laps. I have two miles worth of drills: walking lunges, high knees, bounding, lateral band walks, etc. I hope to do that weekly. On Sunday we began the holiday travels to NY but first we run. So Greg was going to run in Pisgah and I decided to run through Pisgah and then around via Horseshoe road and back to our house on roads. Well, Greg told me later that Griffin didn't like this at first and as I went the upper road to the Horseshoe parking lot and Greg went the lower road into the park she decided to sprint ahead to where she could take another trail that intersects with the one I was on. Don't tell me she doesn't know the trails! So cute. Anyway, Greg stopped her and then went on their way into the park while I made my way around on the roads. It was a nice run before a long drive to NY.
Week 52: 18 miles and 1580 miles for the year.
Only ran once on the orads in Corning NY with Griffin then made it back for a spin class. Thursday we got our first snow storm so I did a couple DVDs at home (Tae Bo anyone?) . Got out with Ramona on Saturday for a run on my old marathon training route to Surry Dam. Low key week.
That's the year. It's a process, and I love it!!
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Weeks 43, 44 and 45: 84 miles
Week 43: Happy Anniversary to me and Greg! :) I was a bit sore this week after the 10 mile road race. Not race sore, but ROAD sore. I couldn't even think of when I had run on the roads last. DUH. Got on the elliptical one day and then a few runs with my training partner Griffin in our favorite park. We got her a new vest for hunting season - she gets very excited when I pull it off the hook! Also hooked up with Tat for our usual 6 miler on Friday- gotta keep a few road miles in the plans. LOG 29.
Week 44: We had a day off because of Hurricane Sandy on Monday - I didn't go out in the winds with Greg. I did go out Tuesday and the water in Pisgah was amazing. Hearing it rushing in the creeks was pretty cool and parts of South Woods Trail was a creek in itself. Having trouble getting used to the treadmill again. Only busted out a couple miles midweek, but tried the row machine- that was fun. I'll keep that one in the toolbox. Overall, not very exciting. Work is getting crazy- got a computer virus that wiped out the lectures I was working on for next week- that set me back a bit and then learning an updated system and trying to get organized....forget about it! LOG 25.
Week 45: Got the computer figured out- now to find the energy and motivation to re-write a couple lectures. The students enjoyed a couple in-class "work on your projects" days! Shouldn't affect running but it does. I also decided to do a lot more cross training and add strength and cycle classes. That always helps me get my motivation back...and hopefully a few pounds off. Went to an awesome cycle class Monday, an "Anything Goes" class tuesday which is a lot of strength circuits. (I need to start doing circuit madness again!) Weather rolled in wednesday that gave me a headache making it impossible to get in an active recovery. Paid for that Thursday as I was sore, but got on a couple machines at the YMCA. Ran early on the roads from the house Friday- my husband motivated me. He had gone out and so I desided Grif and I would surprise him. Had a nice run in Pisgah with Griffin Saturday morning before traveling with Soccer- mini-vistas and didn't have to walk. Legs felt good and snappy with barely any miles on them- go figure. Then today I did the strength and then cycle class- GOOD WORKOUT. LOG 10.
Yep, only 10 miles. Don't worry, I'm ok. I am not going to worry about miles til January. Still have to decide on the next marathon (Vermont, Demar, whatever is on the Grand Prix schedule next fall??) - but the next half is New Bedford in March with the goal of a PR. Looking forward to Lil Rhody this weekend- hopefully can PR there- even if only by a minute! And I wouldn't be totally surprised if I had a good 5K on Thanksgiving....depends on how many marg's I have at my sister's house the night before I guess. It's a process...and I love it!
Week 44: We had a day off because of Hurricane Sandy on Monday - I didn't go out in the winds with Greg. I did go out Tuesday and the water in Pisgah was amazing. Hearing it rushing in the creeks was pretty cool and parts of South Woods Trail was a creek in itself. Having trouble getting used to the treadmill again. Only busted out a couple miles midweek, but tried the row machine- that was fun. I'll keep that one in the toolbox. Overall, not very exciting. Work is getting crazy- got a computer virus that wiped out the lectures I was working on for next week- that set me back a bit and then learning an updated system and trying to get organized....forget about it! LOG 25.
Week 45: Got the computer figured out- now to find the energy and motivation to re-write a couple lectures. The students enjoyed a couple in-class "work on your projects" days! Shouldn't affect running but it does. I also decided to do a lot more cross training and add strength and cycle classes. That always helps me get my motivation back...and hopefully a few pounds off. Went to an awesome cycle class Monday, an "Anything Goes" class tuesday which is a lot of strength circuits. (I need to start doing circuit madness again!) Weather rolled in wednesday that gave me a headache making it impossible to get in an active recovery. Paid for that Thursday as I was sore, but got on a couple machines at the YMCA. Ran early on the roads from the house Friday- my husband motivated me. He had gone out and so I desided Grif and I would surprise him. Had a nice run in Pisgah with Griffin Saturday morning before traveling with Soccer- mini-vistas and didn't have to walk. Legs felt good and snappy with barely any miles on them- go figure. Then today I did the strength and then cycle class- GOOD WORKOUT. LOG 10.
Yep, only 10 miles. Don't worry, I'm ok. I am not going to worry about miles til January. Still have to decide on the next marathon (Vermont, Demar, whatever is on the Grand Prix schedule next fall??) - but the next half is New Bedford in March with the goal of a PR. Looking forward to Lil Rhody this weekend- hopefully can PR there- even if only by a minute! And I wouldn't be totally surprised if I had a good 5K on Thanksgiving....depends on how many marg's I have at my sister's house the night before I guess. It's a process...and I love it!
Monday, October 22, 2012
WEEK 42: 26 miles and Granite State 10 Miler
Just didn't feel well this week- if it isn't one thing it's another! Monday I made myself motion sick on the elliptical trying to multitask and get some reading done! Ugh! Had a couple nice runs with Griffin in Pisgah early in the mornings - well it's not dark so it isn't too early. Had a migraine Wednesday. Always a pleasure. Got to a spin class finally on Friday - not sure I put a ton of effort into it but it felt good to get up and out the door early. Walked with Grif in the woods Saturday.
Sunday we celebrated our anniversary with a 10-mile road race (my idea!). Not sure what I was thinking- I guess I just wanted to see just how out of shape I had gotten this fall. We went to Concord - the weather was perfect for a race. The entry fee was pretty steep (45 each), but once I saw the shirts I figured oh well- nice shirt and a good workout- and a day trip with my husband! Priceless! The course was pretty and pretty challenging. (Who knew Concord was that pretty?!) I felt good throughout, but rigged the last mile. I was roadkill to three people that I had worked so hard to pass during the 7-9 miles. Bummer. But overall I was pleased with the outcome at 1:22:54. I went in praying I could be near 85 minutes, so was surprised I was well under. The last mile worried me a little- thought I was going to have to walk but I kept it together. Miles: 8:00, 8:25, 8:40, 8:25, 8:23, 8:20, 8:21, 7:54, 7:45, 8:34 (ouch). I don't think I couldve finished a half marathon! haha There were some really good hills, but the second half seemed a lot easier. Greg won- so he won our entry fee back plus 10 dollars! woo-hoo! We had planned to go out to lunch, but immediately felt guilty when thinking about Griffin and hightailed it home to take her out in Pisgah.
http://gsrtnh.com/granitestate10/
Alright week- I don't feel as behind as I thought I was and if I can get it together I may end up running a PR at Lil Rhody and Pie and Glove. Already getting excited for the next half marathon- and then a full. It's a process, and I love it (and my husband of 1 year!) :)
Sunday we celebrated our anniversary with a 10-mile road race (my idea!). Not sure what I was thinking- I guess I just wanted to see just how out of shape I had gotten this fall. We went to Concord - the weather was perfect for a race. The entry fee was pretty steep (45 each), but once I saw the shirts I figured oh well- nice shirt and a good workout- and a day trip with my husband! Priceless! The course was pretty and pretty challenging. (Who knew Concord was that pretty?!) I felt good throughout, but rigged the last mile. I was roadkill to three people that I had worked so hard to pass during the 7-9 miles. Bummer. But overall I was pleased with the outcome at 1:22:54. I went in praying I could be near 85 minutes, so was surprised I was well under. The last mile worried me a little- thought I was going to have to walk but I kept it together. Miles: 8:00, 8:25, 8:40, 8:25, 8:23, 8:20, 8:21, 7:54, 7:45, 8:34 (ouch). I don't think I couldve finished a half marathon! haha There were some really good hills, but the second half seemed a lot easier. Greg won- so he won our entry fee back plus 10 dollars! woo-hoo! We had planned to go out to lunch, but immediately felt guilty when thinking about Griffin and hightailed it home to take her out in Pisgah.
http://gsrtnh.com/granitestate10/
Alright week- I don't feel as behind as I thought I was and if I can get it together I may end up running a PR at Lil Rhody and Pie and Glove. Already getting excited for the next half marathon- and then a full. It's a process, and I love it (and my husband of 1 year!) :)
Saturday, October 13, 2012
WEEKS: 38-41
Welp I'm just trying to stay somewhat active at this point - it's not pretty. The weeks go like this...
Week 38: 29 miles; Recovered from Pisgah just fine. Did a lot of short runs mostly with Griffin. Only lifted once.
Week 39: 20 miles; Barely a fitness jogger at this point. Hit the treadmill once, went into Pisgah and noted it was a beautiful fall morning with Griffin. Tried out an out and back on horseshoe road from our house- that went pretty snappy for 5 miles (41:15), I'd call that a tempo workout out of nowhere. Saw a Bobcat in the Ashuelot River as we were scoping out the Demar race course for Justin and Greg. Didn't do a long run as I watched Greg at Demar instead.
Week 40: 31 miles; Lots of treadmill- just trying to squeeze it in during work. Did a longish run with my friend Ramona from the YMCA up to the beaver pond (9miles)- always cool to check out new trails. Me and Griffin found a new trail in Pisgah that they have been working on. The Habitat trail has washed out but it looks like there is another cut across from Old Chesterfield to South Woods- this is a trail Greg has taken me on way in the past but it wasn't worked on, I guess he and Elijiah had used it as a trail now and then. But now it's a pretty cool little trail and may be useful for snowshoeing should the snow cooperate this year. You can take it up to the beaver pond too which is a nice spot. Nice to have a shorter option in Pisgah that isn't an out and back.
Week 41: Spent a lot of time in Pisgah this week- I love it in there! It is sooo beautiful. I sent in our membership to Friends of Pisgah, Inc. today. Can't believe I hadn't done that over a year ago! But better late than never. I hope to get more involved in learning the parks history and keeping it awesome. Ran 2:13 in there today with Ramona- went on the new "4-H' trail (Greg and Elijiah's name for it...Hidden Hemlock Habitat Hook-up, I think) + South woods+ Nash + Fullam (another beautiful spot this time of year- well all year but you know what I mean) + Old Chesterfiled + Lily Pond + North Ponds + Reservoir and back to Winchester Rd. FUN! Tough run but such a great morning and chilly! Not sure what i'll be doing tomorrow as I'll be watching the great Pinnacle Challenge!
I guess my goal is to get out of this rut and really get into being a fit person again who is motivated! Hanging on by a thread- it's a process, and I love it!
Week 38: 29 miles; Recovered from Pisgah just fine. Did a lot of short runs mostly with Griffin. Only lifted once.
Week 39: 20 miles; Barely a fitness jogger at this point. Hit the treadmill once, went into Pisgah and noted it was a beautiful fall morning with Griffin. Tried out an out and back on horseshoe road from our house- that went pretty snappy for 5 miles (41:15), I'd call that a tempo workout out of nowhere. Saw a Bobcat in the Ashuelot River as we were scoping out the Demar race course for Justin and Greg. Didn't do a long run as I watched Greg at Demar instead.
Week 40: 31 miles; Lots of treadmill- just trying to squeeze it in during work. Did a longish run with my friend Ramona from the YMCA up to the beaver pond (9miles)- always cool to check out new trails. Me and Griffin found a new trail in Pisgah that they have been working on. The Habitat trail has washed out but it looks like there is another cut across from Old Chesterfield to South Woods- this is a trail Greg has taken me on way in the past but it wasn't worked on, I guess he and Elijiah had used it as a trail now and then. But now it's a pretty cool little trail and may be useful for snowshoeing should the snow cooperate this year. You can take it up to the beaver pond too which is a nice spot. Nice to have a shorter option in Pisgah that isn't an out and back.
Week 41: Spent a lot of time in Pisgah this week- I love it in there! It is sooo beautiful. I sent in our membership to Friends of Pisgah, Inc. today. Can't believe I hadn't done that over a year ago! But better late than never. I hope to get more involved in learning the parks history and keeping it awesome. Ran 2:13 in there today with Ramona- went on the new "4-H' trail (Greg and Elijiah's name for it...Hidden Hemlock Habitat Hook-up, I think) + South woods+ Nash + Fullam (another beautiful spot this time of year- well all year but you know what I mean) + Old Chesterfiled + Lily Pond + North Ponds + Reservoir and back to Winchester Rd. FUN! Tough run but such a great morning and chilly! Not sure what i'll be doing tomorrow as I'll be watching the great Pinnacle Challenge!
I guess my goal is to get out of this rut and really get into being a fit person again who is motivated! Hanging on by a thread- it's a process, and I love it!
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Week 37: 34 miles and Pisgah Mtn 23K Trail Race
Having a real hard time getting motivated! I ran 10 miles on the roads in Keene Tuesday and thought my legs would fall off, but I held marathon pace- barely. My fitness has suffered as I knew it would this fall with work being so busy. Life happens. I was only semi-excited for the Pisgah race. I didn't run last year because I was sick and Greg brought home a bug just in time for this week. We've both had a cold for it seems like a month now. It wasn't bad enough for me to back out of the race though- I thought if anything the hard run may make it better! My goal going into the race was to be close to my time in 2010 (2:29:54). I don't feel like I am any where near the fitness I was in then, but I do have a lot more experience on the trails. In any case, I didn't know what would happen. I tried to remember to have fun - it is a big family affair - and be glad I can run at all in this beautiful park!
The race started and there were 4 Hammett's in the pack. Greg took it out followed by Jonny, then Glenny, and then me somewhere in the back of the crowd. It was a glorious morning! I just tried to stay relaxed on the roads heading into the park and knew what I was in for on the Reservoir trail this time. I feel like I climbed it pretty well. I kept going back and forth with a couple people, tried to latch onto a couple guys and made it to the Ridge trail pretty happy with my effort and feeling pretty good (52:46). I knew the Ridge trail would be tough and had already calculated that some walking would be in order. The guys I was near quickly dropped me and I never saw them again. The thing about the ridge is that the first part isn't the steepest, but it's long. The footing is so nice it just seems like it should be so runnable - for some I'm sure it is, but I had my mental block on and walked a bit here and there. At the first look out I was passed by a woman who looked real smooth. She offered words of encouragement and I tried to keep her in sight. I did for awhile as we caught a guy who looked like he may have gone out too fast. The woman dropped us eventually and the man and I got to the Kilburn station together (38:41). We went back and forth up the Kilburn Road to Davis (8:31). I finally dropped him on Davis and low and behold I caught a glimpse of the woman from the Ridge ahead...that lasted about 1 minute. This is where I started to get pretty tired. I hadn't run over 2 hours in a really looong time and it was starting to catch up with me. A woman passed me like I was climbing a tree instead of running on Davis. But onward- I just kept chugging along. I got to Hubbard and looked at my watch- I knew from my runs that I can get across Hubbard to my car in less than 20 minutes and the clock was around 2 hours. Hmm pretty close to be near 2:30. Up Hubbard and I saw and finally caught the woman who passed me on the Ridge just as we started down the Hill- she said "go for it" and for a few minutes I did. I got to the road and saw the woman who passed me on Davis and for a second thought I could get her. Then I hit the road and my legs said you'll be lucky to finish. My car is usually parked right there because of the mean dog in between our house and the trailhead so I don't run this road as often as you might expect. I made it down the hill and knew the uphill on the pavement would be a killer. I yelled to Griffin, who was "cheering me on" from inside the house, that I'd be back for her later. My hips were hurting and fatigued- how did I ever run a marathon? I did walk on the hill. Ugh. I stopped to take a big breath and collect my thoughts- my clock said I had 8 minutes to get tot he finish under 2:30. That was a hard little trek up the road. My own Road! But I reached the turn onto 63, heard Greg yelling- with a little surprise to see me this early in his voice? Finished at 2:28:59. Good enough for a PR. I was quite tired. I really think I should be running that a lot faster. So next year I am going to train and try to have a HUGE PR.
I was psyched to hear Greg had won and gotten the course record; Jonny had a great race and I think Glenny did better than he had expected. So it was a good day for the Hammett's. The rest of the day was spent cheering in other runners from our yard on Winchester Road. Boj had a good 50K. Our friend James Calloway ran his first 50K on his 50th Birthday that day!
Overall I was pleased. Next "big" race will be Lil Rhody with even more Hammett's in the line-up. Fall is the best! Just gotta get motivated to have a PR there....any day now. It's a process and I love it!
Thanks to Pard for getting quite a few good pictures! More on the Pisgah website (link on the right)
The race started and there were 4 Hammett's in the pack. Greg took it out followed by Jonny, then Glenny, and then me somewhere in the back of the crowd. It was a glorious morning! I just tried to stay relaxed on the roads heading into the park and knew what I was in for on the Reservoir trail this time. I feel like I climbed it pretty well. I kept going back and forth with a couple people, tried to latch onto a couple guys and made it to the Ridge trail pretty happy with my effort and feeling pretty good (52:46). I knew the Ridge trail would be tough and had already calculated that some walking would be in order. The guys I was near quickly dropped me and I never saw them again. The thing about the ridge is that the first part isn't the steepest, but it's long. The footing is so nice it just seems like it should be so runnable - for some I'm sure it is, but I had my mental block on and walked a bit here and there. At the first look out I was passed by a woman who looked real smooth. She offered words of encouragement and I tried to keep her in sight. I did for awhile as we caught a guy who looked like he may have gone out too fast. The woman dropped us eventually and the man and I got to the Kilburn station together (38:41). We went back and forth up the Kilburn Road to Davis (8:31). I finally dropped him on Davis and low and behold I caught a glimpse of the woman from the Ridge ahead...that lasted about 1 minute. This is where I started to get pretty tired. I hadn't run over 2 hours in a really looong time and it was starting to catch up with me. A woman passed me like I was climbing a tree instead of running on Davis. But onward- I just kept chugging along. I got to Hubbard and looked at my watch- I knew from my runs that I can get across Hubbard to my car in less than 20 minutes and the clock was around 2 hours. Hmm pretty close to be near 2:30. Up Hubbard and I saw and finally caught the woman who passed me on the Ridge just as we started down the Hill- she said "go for it" and for a few minutes I did. I got to the road and saw the woman who passed me on Davis and for a second thought I could get her. Then I hit the road and my legs said you'll be lucky to finish. My car is usually parked right there because of the mean dog in between our house and the trailhead so I don't run this road as often as you might expect. I made it down the hill and knew the uphill on the pavement would be a killer. I yelled to Griffin, who was "cheering me on" from inside the house, that I'd be back for her later. My hips were hurting and fatigued- how did I ever run a marathon? I did walk on the hill. Ugh. I stopped to take a big breath and collect my thoughts- my clock said I had 8 minutes to get tot he finish under 2:30. That was a hard little trek up the road. My own Road! But I reached the turn onto 63, heard Greg yelling- with a little surprise to see me this early in his voice? Finished at 2:28:59. Good enough for a PR. I was quite tired. I really think I should be running that a lot faster. So next year I am going to train and try to have a HUGE PR.
I was psyched to hear Greg had won and gotten the course record; Jonny had a great race and I think Glenny did better than he had expected. So it was a good day for the Hammett's. The rest of the day was spent cheering in other runners from our yard on Winchester Road. Boj had a good 50K. Our friend James Calloway ran his first 50K on his 50th Birthday that day!
Overall I was pleased. Next "big" race will be Lil Rhody with even more Hammett's in the line-up. Fall is the best! Just gotta get motivated to have a PR there....any day now. It's a process and I love it!
Thanks to Pard for getting quite a few good pictures! More on the Pisgah website (link on the right)
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| Greg wins and captures Course Record! |
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| Me finishing...a PR's and PR! |
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| Hanging in the yard waiting for the 50K finishers.... |
Weeks 34- 36
Week 34: 22 miles. Work really caught up with me this week- just being on my feet all the time tires my legs and makes me tired in general. I got a couple good runs in Pisgah though- including one in which I saw and talked to a Barred Owl! He let me talk to him for almost 30seconds before getting bored and flying away. Big eyes! I was getting a little creeped out as he just stared at me- but I guess if he said something I would've been more creeped out. Lots of hawks calling in the woods these days too.
Week 35: 26 miles. Eh just a couple medium runs in Freidsam and then South Woods with Griffin. Finally some chilly mornings.
Week 36: 35 miles. 6 days in a row of running- haven't done that in awhile! It's not that I'm feeling bad- just lazy. Plantar fascitis has been pretty much controlled at this point. Lifted a couple times...okay once. South Woods to Mini-Vistas run on Sunday with Grif. Gotta say I felt pretty good on it, but only 1:50 of time in the trails. Would need a little more for a good Pisgah race. Probably too little too late. Oh well, It's a process and I love it!
Week 35: 26 miles. Eh just a couple medium runs in Freidsam and then South Woods with Griffin. Finally some chilly mornings.
Week 36: 35 miles. 6 days in a row of running- haven't done that in awhile! It's not that I'm feeling bad- just lazy. Plantar fascitis has been pretty much controlled at this point. Lifted a couple times...okay once. South Woods to Mini-Vistas run on Sunday with Grif. Gotta say I felt pretty good on it, but only 1:50 of time in the trails. Would need a little more for a good Pisgah race. Probably too little too late. Oh well, It's a process and I love it!
Sunday, August 19, 2012
WEEK 32 and 33
I've made a decision not to run Cape Cod this fall. Just too busy with work and it was already making me a stressed anxious you know what. So I'm just going to try to be fit and get diesel this fall- like I was supposed to this past summer! I won't worry about mileage too much- just try to keep it over 30 and if I get close to 40 great! I will focus on the Pisgah 23K- I didn't get to run it last year because I was sick. And I'd like to run a faster time than last year at Lil Rhody too. So I have goals- just not as lofty as I had planned. I still can't wait to do another marathon and I'll plan on Vermont City and perhaps Demar some year soon.
I did a semi-long run Tuesday (15) on the roads (well, 10 on the rail trail) and it went ok. During my marathon training I was sure to take 2 days rest (active rest) after a run of 15 miles or more. I didn't do that this week and ran 5 Wednesday and then did a track workout Thursday. I've had fun with the track workouts (after the fact) and I think they helped me with the Yankee Candle 5K- not a PR but better than last year and better than I expected. Went in pretty tired and didn't have any kick at the end and I think that was because of my lack of rest after Tuesday's run. I paid for it that weekend. I got pretty unmotivated when work started- I get anxious about getting stuff done so running takes a back seat. But I went to a great cycle class Thursday night and am motivated again. It will fluctuate as the semester and workload shifts..life happens!
My foot has also been fluctuating in it's healing. Right now it seems pretty good. Strange thing is that it's better now that I have minimalist shoes for walking around. I was finding that my feet just ached in my structure triax and the addition of inserts was torture. So I'd wear my five-fingers (won them at a seminar) and my foot would relax and feel better. I was sore after my run in Pisgah today (2+ hours) and now that I've been wearing my new New Balance minimalist sneakers around my foot again feels better. I am also trying to make sure to massage at night. I will need to get some new road shoes I think too. The lighter ones are just more comfortable now.
I ran in Pisgah Friday morning with Griffin. We did Vistas and it was awesome. No deer flys! Pictures are on the Pisgah Blog. The rest of the weekend is up in the air as I am about to face the onslaught of preseason athletics at Keene State. I'll try to keep my "running ahead" run log up to date even if I don't post much here. It's a process and I love it!!
I did a semi-long run Tuesday (15) on the roads (well, 10 on the rail trail) and it went ok. During my marathon training I was sure to take 2 days rest (active rest) after a run of 15 miles or more. I didn't do that this week and ran 5 Wednesday and then did a track workout Thursday. I've had fun with the track workouts (after the fact) and I think they helped me with the Yankee Candle 5K- not a PR but better than last year and better than I expected. Went in pretty tired and didn't have any kick at the end and I think that was because of my lack of rest after Tuesday's run. I paid for it that weekend. I got pretty unmotivated when work started- I get anxious about getting stuff done so running takes a back seat. But I went to a great cycle class Thursday night and am motivated again. It will fluctuate as the semester and workload shifts..life happens!
My foot has also been fluctuating in it's healing. Right now it seems pretty good. Strange thing is that it's better now that I have minimalist shoes for walking around. I was finding that my feet just ached in my structure triax and the addition of inserts was torture. So I'd wear my five-fingers (won them at a seminar) and my foot would relax and feel better. I was sore after my run in Pisgah today (2+ hours) and now that I've been wearing my new New Balance minimalist sneakers around my foot again feels better. I am also trying to make sure to massage at night. I will need to get some new road shoes I think too. The lighter ones are just more comfortable now.
I ran in Pisgah Friday morning with Griffin. We did Vistas and it was awesome. No deer flys! Pictures are on the Pisgah Blog. The rest of the weekend is up in the air as I am about to face the onslaught of preseason athletics at Keene State. I'll try to keep my "running ahead" run log up to date even if I don't post much here. It's a process and I love it!!
Monday, August 6, 2012
Week 31: 51 miles
Mon: Freidsam with Grif + Circuit. LOG 5
Tue: Railtrail of Keene Log 12, 1:46
Wed: Freidsam 5, 44:35. Felt good.
Thu: Track workout 200-400-600-800-1000-800-600-400-200; 7:45 pace. LOG 10
Fri: Freidsam with grif, LOG 4.
Sat: Kilburn with Greg and Grif, LOG 8.
Sunday: Freidsam from house with Grif. LOG 7.
Big week finally. Got in a "long run" of 12 miles on the railtrail. Felt good, even the foot has been feeling good. Wednesday was my best run of the summer in Freidsam at 44:35. Did another track workout - again felt ridiculously slow, but again I got through it. It was pretty hot but I am doing better in the heat now than I did at Vermont City. On Saturday we kayaked in Stoddard- good core workout. We're thinking about getting a couple! On Sunday I ran the Freidsam loop but left from the house to add on some miles. It was HOT. Poor Grif was pretty warm on our way back on the road. Overall a solid week, starting to feel stronger. Passed 1000 miles (1043) and am still considering Cape Cod for a fall marathon- the next couple weeks will be a better indicator. With work starting -and therefore a full schedule- maybe I'll be better about getting in the lift and core workouts that I am so lazy about right now, then again I may not have time to get very many miles. I am planning on running 15 tomorrow- might be slow, but I want to cover some bigger chunks of mileage if not for Cape Cod then for getting ready for Pisgah. The foot has been pretty good even with the increase in mileage. I've stayed away from hill sprints and plyo's for now, but will start adding them soon. I still get shooting/searing pains in the foot at night, but its ok during a run- that's really what matters right?! Ice calms it, so onward with adding miles. This week I feel like I need another big week as work looms and a couple low mileage weeks are sure to result. We are running a flat 5K Saturday that I would have liked to really focus on, but I think miles are more important and will go into it tired and use it as a workout. It'll still be fun- maybe I'll surprise myself. It's a process, and I love it!
Tue: Railtrail of Keene Log 12, 1:46
Wed: Freidsam 5, 44:35. Felt good.
Thu: Track workout 200-400-600-800-1000-800-600-400-200; 7:45 pace. LOG 10
Fri: Freidsam with grif, LOG 4.
Sat: Kilburn with Greg and Grif, LOG 8.
Sunday: Freidsam from house with Grif. LOG 7.
Big week finally. Got in a "long run" of 12 miles on the railtrail. Felt good, even the foot has been feeling good. Wednesday was my best run of the summer in Freidsam at 44:35. Did another track workout - again felt ridiculously slow, but again I got through it. It was pretty hot but I am doing better in the heat now than I did at Vermont City. On Saturday we kayaked in Stoddard- good core workout. We're thinking about getting a couple! On Sunday I ran the Freidsam loop but left from the house to add on some miles. It was HOT. Poor Grif was pretty warm on our way back on the road. Overall a solid week, starting to feel stronger. Passed 1000 miles (1043) and am still considering Cape Cod for a fall marathon- the next couple weeks will be a better indicator. With work starting -and therefore a full schedule- maybe I'll be better about getting in the lift and core workouts that I am so lazy about right now, then again I may not have time to get very many miles. I am planning on running 15 tomorrow- might be slow, but I want to cover some bigger chunks of mileage if not for Cape Cod then for getting ready for Pisgah. The foot has been pretty good even with the increase in mileage. I've stayed away from hill sprints and plyo's for now, but will start adding them soon. I still get shooting/searing pains in the foot at night, but its ok during a run- that's really what matters right?! Ice calms it, so onward with adding miles. This week I feel like I need another big week as work looms and a couple low mileage weeks are sure to result. We are running a flat 5K Saturday that I would have liked to really focus on, but I think miles are more important and will go into it tired and use it as a workout. It'll still be fun- maybe I'll surprise myself. It's a process, and I love it!
Week 30: 38 miles
Monday: AM: TRX class + 2mi TM. PM: 3 miles with Emily in Saxton's River. LOG 5
Tuesday: Kilburn with Grif. LOG 8
Wed: Hike Bear Mtn
Thu: Track workout. LOG 10
Friday: 2 mi roads from home, core
Saturday: 5 mile Trail race + 3. LOG 8
Sunday: Freidsam from home with Grif. LOG 5.
Pretty hot week. I was trying to get over 40 miles this week but it didn't quite happen. Finally made it to the track for my first track workout of the summer. I did 12 x 400 at 8 min pace (2:00) with 200m recovery and then did 4 x 200 at 46s also with 200 recovery. Nothing like a track workout to really make you see how slow you are. I'm not sure how I ever run under 8 min pace when I can barely do a quarter at that pace. I was having a tough day but I got through it.
On Saturday we did the Run for hte Beavers Trail Race in Rhode Island. Really cool course- a five mile loop. I registered for the 10 miler but just couldn't talk myself into the second loop- or rather talked myself out of the second loop before the halfway. I was jsut not feeling it and was afraid I'd turn my ankle or something if I pushed it. My foot was pretty sore too. Besides when I came around in 51 minutes I figured Greggie would be coming around from his second loop in about 10 minutes. I decided to stay and watch him win it. And he did. Sunday I still wasn't feeling great and could only eek out 5 miles in Freidsam with Griffin fo 38 miles for the week. Almost at 1000 miles for the year. Next week for sure. It's a process and I love it!
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Weeks 23-29: 164 miles and Summer
My big plans of getting fit and diesel this summer haven't exactly come about. I got back to running after the marathon after a week or two of lots of spin classes. I joined the YMCA, started some drills, plyos, and hill sprints and my foot decided it was not liking that. So I have spent most of the last 6 weeks battling plantar fascitis. I've been able to run a little and cycle and hike, but haven't been able to take advantage of the classes at the YMCA. I guess I will just add the extras as I get better. A brief summary of the summer so far...
Week 23: 17 miles and Newton 10K. Went to the 10K with Greg just to get a run in- it was slow and my legs were still pretty tired from the marathon or perhaps the daily- sometimes double- cycle classes I've been taking. But it was a nice day- we barefoot run a little afterward in a nice field.
Week 24: 33 miles. Lots of Kilburn miles and core.
Week 25: 18 miles. The foot started acting up midweek a day after a bout of hill sprints. I hate running in the heat anyway.
Week 26: 7 miles. Lots of spin classes all week and then a 7 mile run in Kilburn Sunday.
Week 27: 18 miles. Went to Rhode Island and ran on the Cliff Walk and through Newport for a few miles. Foot felt like it could be pushed a bit. Did not run Four on the Fourth because I wasn't feeling well. Oh well, next year. It was fun to watch. At the end of the week we hiked Caribou Mtn in the White Mtns of Maine. Very nice hike- cool waterfalls. The first blueberries of the summer spotted in Kilburn while running with Griffin.
Week 28: 29 miles. I guess it always feels like you lose more time due to injury than you really do, but the foot isn't perfect yet- just to the point where I can run through it now- like I was pretty much all year anyway. Spent a lot of time in Freidsam Park with Griffin since Greg was away at a running camp.
Week 29: 42 miles. Biggest mileage since before the marathon. I got a lot of miles, but mostly shorter stuff without a day off and doubling added up. Still haven't had a good long run. Tried the 10 mile loop from our house to and around spofford lake. This is not an easy loop- pretty, but NOT easy and not one I'll be doing on a weekly basis. Tough run. Speaking of tough runs...we did the Dublin 5K Saturday. Also a route that time doesn't tell you much unless you are comparing it to yourself. That will be interesting for next year. I did the final mile (hill) twice and had a good workout day. Got to run with Emily Monday night in Saxton's River and ran with Tat a couple times in Keene. It is fun to have people to run with!
Overall I am at 954 miles for the year- a couple hundred miles ahead of last year! Should reach 1000 this week. The foot is manageable now- not perfect, but what runner feels perfect? I'll try to add the "extra's" as I can (plyos, hills, etc.) - carefully. I'm running out of summer at this point and just need to get on track before work starts kicking my butt. It took me awhile to get used to not having a lot to do - it was a tough adjustment- just ask Greg. I hated Summer- but you don't know what you got til its gone- in this case- almost gone. I'll try to make the best out of the last 2 weeks. I am still toying with the idea of the Cape Cod marathon, but the reality of work may end that quest. I will at least hope to be in better shape for Pisgah 23K. I didn't run last year due to sickness, so it'll be fun to be back assuming I stay healthy. This weekend a 10 mile trail race in RI and i'll begin to build the long run back up over the next couple weeks. Just trying to go with the flow! It's a process and I love it!
Week 23: 17 miles and Newton 10K. Went to the 10K with Greg just to get a run in- it was slow and my legs were still pretty tired from the marathon or perhaps the daily- sometimes double- cycle classes I've been taking. But it was a nice day- we barefoot run a little afterward in a nice field.
Week 24: 33 miles. Lots of Kilburn miles and core.
Week 25: 18 miles. The foot started acting up midweek a day after a bout of hill sprints. I hate running in the heat anyway.
Week 26: 7 miles. Lots of spin classes all week and then a 7 mile run in Kilburn Sunday.
Week 27: 18 miles. Went to Rhode Island and ran on the Cliff Walk and through Newport for a few miles. Foot felt like it could be pushed a bit. Did not run Four on the Fourth because I wasn't feeling well. Oh well, next year. It was fun to watch. At the end of the week we hiked Caribou Mtn in the White Mtns of Maine. Very nice hike- cool waterfalls. The first blueberries of the summer spotted in Kilburn while running with Griffin.
Week 28: 29 miles. I guess it always feels like you lose more time due to injury than you really do, but the foot isn't perfect yet- just to the point where I can run through it now- like I was pretty much all year anyway. Spent a lot of time in Freidsam Park with Griffin since Greg was away at a running camp.
Week 29: 42 miles. Biggest mileage since before the marathon. I got a lot of miles, but mostly shorter stuff without a day off and doubling added up. Still haven't had a good long run. Tried the 10 mile loop from our house to and around spofford lake. This is not an easy loop- pretty, but NOT easy and not one I'll be doing on a weekly basis. Tough run. Speaking of tough runs...we did the Dublin 5K Saturday. Also a route that time doesn't tell you much unless you are comparing it to yourself. That will be interesting for next year. I did the final mile (hill) twice and had a good workout day. Got to run with Emily Monday night in Saxton's River and ran with Tat a couple times in Keene. It is fun to have people to run with!
Overall I am at 954 miles for the year- a couple hundred miles ahead of last year! Should reach 1000 this week. The foot is manageable now- not perfect, but what runner feels perfect? I'll try to add the "extra's" as I can (plyos, hills, etc.) - carefully. I'm running out of summer at this point and just need to get on track before work starts kicking my butt. It took me awhile to get used to not having a lot to do - it was a tough adjustment- just ask Greg. I hated Summer- but you don't know what you got til its gone- in this case- almost gone. I'll try to make the best out of the last 2 weeks. I am still toying with the idea of the Cape Cod marathon, but the reality of work may end that quest. I will at least hope to be in better shape for Pisgah 23K. I didn't run last year due to sickness, so it'll be fun to be back assuming I stay healthy. This weekend a 10 mile trail race in RI and i'll begin to build the long run back up over the next couple weeks. Just trying to go with the flow! It's a process and I love it!
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Week 22: 0 miles and recovery
This week I was sure to recover and not let the excitement of finishing my first marathon drive me to do something stupid. I was sore for a couple days- mostly quads and my upper back neck. Plantar Fascia was a little sore too, but feels better with time off. I wasn't a complete sloth - by Wednesday I joined the YMCA in Keene and started in on some cycling/spin classes. I've taken 6 in as many days. FUN! I felt a little pep in my step return on Friday, but the weather helped me maintain my resolve to rest further. The spin classes have been awesome and Sunday was an added 45 minutes of core afterward- I can barely stand up straight as my anterior torso muscles are really sore today! This week I'l get back at it slowly- maybe 25 miles and I did decide to run the 10K in Newton on Sunday- the money goes to Ovarian Cancer research so I figured I might as well join in - might get a surprise Pr out of it!
Cape Cod Marathon is back in the plan - depending on what work does to my miles come August. But for the summer- get super fit and lean using classes at the Y and get back to running! It's a process and I love it!
Cape Cod Marathon is back in the plan - depending on what work does to my miles come August. But for the summer- get super fit and lean using classes at the Y and get back to running! It's a process and I love it!
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Vermont City Marathon
Wow that was a blast. Of course I'm getting more and more excited as the pain gets less and less, but still can't wait to do another one! I'm getting ahead of myself....
Saturday Greg and I drove up to Burlington. Nice drive and good weather. We got the expo, checked in, got our goodie bags, and went to the invited runner room so Greg could check in with them and get directions to our accommodations. We were staying at the dorms at Champlain College with the Fyffe's and Ferenc and Emily. It was a nice dorm and an easy walk to city center. Took it easy Saturday, ran a little bit after walking with Emily and Jess. Went to the expo while Greg, Josh, and Justin went to their meeting. Got some cheese samples, coffee, and bought the marathon poster. We all got together again and went to dinner at the Brewery (Chicken sandwich and fries and a beer (and water)). Early to bed of course....didn't sleep all that well.
Sunday morning we got up really early and headed to Dunkin Donuts. Car almost got towed...for real. Got back to change and then drove into burlington to park. Easy. Headed to the invited athlete "staging area" with Greg, Justin, and Ferenc. Nerves started setting in- could only eat half my bagel and drink some juice. Weather looked like it was going to be okay. Got a shuttle to the start...heaven forbid the invited athletes walk too much before the race. :) Got to the start and used the portopotty a couple times without much wait and warmed up a little. Beautiful morning! I saw the pace teams assemble so I went to line up with my 3:45 group. Legs felt pretty good. Waited for the start. Damn had to pee again. No way I could do that. Chatted a bit with a couple people around me, almost started to cry as it got closer to the start, and decided I could pee my pants if I had too because I wasn't going to stop for a potty break.
Start. Glad I resolved to stay near the pace leaders. I didn't stay behind them because they were planning 8:35 pace and I really wanted to stick to 8:30 pace. It worked out well because there was a big group with them and I didn't like that. So I stayed a little ahead but in control. Stomach started to rumble like I was going to have GI issues but it must have been nerves. Kept my core engaged more than usual to try to stop the urge to pee! It worked, eventually I forgot I had to go. Missed the first mile marker- asked someone if we past it yet at 9:30 on my watch.. She thought we had. whew. Got to the second and was at 17:00. perfect. Felt good.
Got through the city and then out to the beltway. Luckily there was cloud cover because this is completely exposed. It's an out and back so it's fun to see the leaders (Matty P) and all the boys. This is the only time I could see them. Then when I went around the turn around I could see all those behind me. Lots of people in this race! Miles 3 and 4 were a little fast 8:07 pace, but I got it back to 8:30 pace quick. The 3:45 pace leaders were about a quarter mile behind me so I wasn't going too fast.
Coming off the beltway back into the city is a blast! About this time we are at 10 miles. Still on pace, but notice that my quads are mixing cement. Hmm never experienced that before. We start going out the second "loop" through some neighborhoods, foot is a little sore, but mostly I'm worried about my quads. I was good about water and taking a couple gels up to this point. Knew the half was coming...only half? I got to the half marathon right on pace at 1:51 and some change. But I wasn't liking the way I was feeling anymore. I noticed the sun was out in full force now. We went through a little park and the breeze felt good to me and the view was spectacular. I tried to focus on those good things because I was suddenly not feeling so good. Surprisingly someone started to yell for me...MacNight and Goupil! That was pretty fun and encouraged me for a couple hundred yards. haha. I knew we were coming back into the city and had to go up Battery St hill....long. I could hear the famous drums, but by now I was flat out hot. I tried to muster some strength for this hill during which you hit mile 16 I think. Welp I was hurting I couldn't deny it any longer. Right about then 3:45 pace leaders seemingly fly past me...bye bye 3:45. I had nothing to respond with. Bad timing. As I was going uphill, it began to all go downhill for me. Pretty even 8:30 pace until mile 15: 9:02....Mile 16: 9:44...crap. And that was all she wrote.
I didn't know what to do and this is where inexperience probably played a big role (not to mention lack of proper training). I knew I was going to hurt but I thought I'd get to at least 20 or even 22 before I had to think of mantra's and motivate myself. But all I could think was I had 10 more miles and the cement that had been mixing in my quads was quickly hardening. I got to the top of the hill and tried to put the pace leaders in my sight, but just couldn't. I wanted water...cold water. At this point people started reading the bibs and a couple people seemed to enjoy yelling "fiesty" for me. That was cool. I don't get called that much these days and it was fun to hear.
We headed out on our last loop and I had no idea how I was going to finish. I got to 18 and couldn't figure out how many miles I had left. I also didn't know what to focus on. I remember reading an article about what to do when you hit the wall, but couldn't remember what it said. I couldn't think of a single tune to put in my head. Couldn't remember the mantra a friend had emailed me. Nothing. My mind was scattered and my body tattered! Every time I wanted to chat with someone- or ask someone to stop and hold me- they would have headphones on...bummer. The spectators and volunteers were awesome and encouraging...and lying through their teeth while still saying "you look strong"!
I got to 20 and at least I could figure out I had 6 more miles. More neighborhoods with lots of turns. The thought of another gel made me nauseous, so I decided the ice pops that the people in the neighborhood had would be great! And they were! I drank lots of water, started going through sprinklers, and eating oranges and ice pops. Every time I got cool I got on pace for a couple minutes (ok seconds) but it didn't last. It wasn't even that bad- probably 75 degrees and not too humid, but I either just don't do well in any amount of heat or I need to be more fit to battle through it...probably a combination of the two.
Somewhere there's a steep downhill into the park area during which my hamstring cramped a tad, but I was healthy...just tired. Real tired. To put it into perspective.... My fastest mile during the second half was mile 21 at 9:26. ouch. I had 3 miles (20, 22, 24) just over 10 minute pace. The last 6 miles were a battle to just get to the next water station. I started drinking gatorade as my stomach was growling. Mile 23. Really? 3 more? At least this is the bike path, so there was shade, but this relief was too little too late. I didn't think I could do it and realized Greg was going to have to wait way longer than expected. Finally the crowds started to build again and I could see the city. I missed the mile 26 mark so had no idea how far my torture would continue.
Finally a couple turns and I could see grass...I knew we ended on grass! YAY! At this point I could hear Macnight yelling for me that I'd be under 4 hours and I saw Greg up on my right. Somehow I got to the finish mat. Under 4 hours, gotta be happy as that's a benchmark a lot of people use. Can't wait to see that picture because I'm quite sure my plan of smiling more didn't pan out! I was hurting, but as soon as I was done I felt great. Greg asked what I needed and I think I said I just needed to cry! He told me I never had to do another marathon, but that thought didn't even occur to me, I knew I was going to do another. Probably many. He had access to COLD water, that felt and tasted great. I was told it was about 80 when I finished. That's quite hot for me. I grabbed a chocolate milk and we made our way out of the crowds and back to the elite staging area. Whew. That was tough.
IT helped to move around and it was fun to hear that Matty P won, Ferenc did awesome (4th place, 1st Vermonter). Greg was about 15 minutes slower than his plan too (2:44). But we all gathered up in our group and headed back to the rooms for awhile, out to dinner, and had a great night in an awesome city! Fun times.
I didn't meet my goal but I still don't think it was unrealistic. I never struggled aerobically, I got hot. Maybe if I had been in better shape I would have battled through that aspect better, but had it been 50 degrees I would've faired much better. I will do it at some point. I want to do this race again for sure, but am not sure I can wait an entire year to do another marathon. I would like to plan one for the fall, but makes me nervous that'll I'll end up as under trained as I was this time because of work and teaching more. I'll play it by ear...yah right, I'm already researching and planning my options! :) My slight disappointment has given way to complete satisfaction the more people are encouraging and the more the realization sets in that I ran a marathon. Kinda crept up on me! Here's the unofficial breakdown...
Splits:
10K 52:42 8:29 pace
10 mile 1:24 8:29 pace
Half marathon 1:51 8:32 pace
20 mile 2:57 8:52 pace (ouch)
Finish 3:57:47 9:05 pace
We got back to NH after a nice breakfast by the water. Good to see Griffin and Zoe. Soreness is mostly in my quads and some chaffing on my thighs, but no blisters and in general came out unscathed. I'm psyched to recover, work on getting fit, doing a couple races here and there this summer, hit the trails, and figure out when I can tackle this beast called the marathon again. It's a process, and I love it!
Monday, May 28, 2012
Week 21: 17 mile taper and VCM = 44 miles
This is what the week leading up tot he marathon looked like. I was a bit crabby so did a couple short runs toward the end of the week that I hadn't planned on just to feel better. Wish I had gotten in a couple spin classes, I think my legs would've felt better during the week, but the classes offered at my gym have an instructor I cannot stand and since I was already crabby I didn't see that working out so well. I was surprised how awful I felt even though my weeks haven't been that packed full of miles!
Monday: TM progression run, legs felt great. LOG 6
Tues: off
Wed: TM 4 miles
Thu: 3 mi TM
Fri: Pisgah with Grif, LOG 3
Sat: 1+ in Burlington
Sun: VCM LOG 27 miles
Monday: TM progression run, legs felt great. LOG 6
Tues: off
Wed: TM 4 miles
Thu: 3 mi TM
Fri: Pisgah with Grif, LOG 3
Sat: 1+ in Burlington
Sun: VCM LOG 27 miles
Monday, May 21, 2012
WEEK 20: 23 miles and Bedford 12K
Mon - core/strength
Tues: 30 min elliptical + core; massage!
Wed: Pisgah OAB with Griffin on Old Chesterfield Road; LOG 5
Thu: Keen Railbed; LOG 10
Fri: 0
Saturday: Bedford 12K, 58:33/7:52 pace; LOG 8
Sunday: core
I intended to do a little run on Sunday to have a little more mileage this week, but that never happened. Cleaned the house and enjoyed a quiet Sunday with no racing and just hung out at home with my husband. We seem to have a bunch of new life in our yard- baby cardinal (so cute), baby robin (huge!), and baby phoebe's by our front door (hungry! saw a parent grab a moth right out of the air!). I was pretty distracted with watching them all day. Greg found a turtle in the yard while he was mowing (no he didn't hit it) and I saw another on the road while walking Grif (have also seen a couple dead baby ones. wah.). I wish I could see into the nest of the Blue Herons on the pond- I bet there's babies there too. Anyway, enough about nature.
Saturday's race was fun. I looked at it like a good tempo run and that's what I did. It's a rolling course with lots of shade. I had done this race when I first began running 3 years ago and ran 1:07. Was pretty sure I'd PR. We started at 9am and it was probably about 70 degrees? Really sunny. No humidity (that's key). The miles clicked by quickly and I just tried to stay comfortable but working hard and concentrated on keeping my turnover quick. Last mile and an older guy says "we're doing alright! Just stay relaxed and we'll be done in no time". And he was right, I just stayed relaxed and got to the last hill to the track and felt pretty good. Even passed a couple people on the track. Even had a smile for the finish as Greg cheered me on. (That's my new thing, I'm going to try to smile more while running...I did it during this race and I gotta say it does help a little! I know I smile in the woods when I am running with Griffin, so why not?) I finished at 58:31- 9 minutes faster then 3 years ago. And my miles were steady (7:36, 7:45, 8:02, 7:54, 7:52, 7:45, 8:10, 3:23 (.45mile)= 58:33(my watch)). I'm not sure if the 7th mile was marked a little long or I just fell off pace- I didn't feel like I did, but whatever. 17th in my age group/28th female master. Not too bad for a Grand Prix race. I feel like I should be more consistently closer to and under 7:45 pace if not 7:30. I'll work on that this coming year. Greg had a one second PR. He's pretty excited to get this marathon over with too. Hmmm just noticed on coolrunning my time is now 58:35...could have sworn it said 58:32 when Greg looked at it last night. haha
So here we are, my last post before the marathon...this week, rest, hydrate and try not to do anything stupid. "Hay is in the barn." I'm excited. I get more excited when I see a cool weather report, but after yesterdays report being high 71/low 45 it has now crept upwards...I have a bad feeling it will continue to do so. BUT it is what it is and I'm trying not to stress about it (unless checking the weather every 2 hours on three different websites is considered stressing). It's exactly like checking the weather for our wedding! If it ends up being the same we're in good shape. Anyway, I don't feel like I've had enough big mileage weeks, but I have to try to muster some confidence and just have fun with it. I have plenty of things I want to work on afterwards! After all, it's a process, and I love it!
Tues: 30 min elliptical + core; massage!
Wed: Pisgah OAB with Griffin on Old Chesterfield Road; LOG 5
Thu: Keen Railbed; LOG 10
Fri: 0
Saturday: Bedford 12K, 58:33/7:52 pace; LOG 8
Sunday: core
I intended to do a little run on Sunday to have a little more mileage this week, but that never happened. Cleaned the house and enjoyed a quiet Sunday with no racing and just hung out at home with my husband. We seem to have a bunch of new life in our yard- baby cardinal (so cute), baby robin (huge!), and baby phoebe's by our front door (hungry! saw a parent grab a moth right out of the air!). I was pretty distracted with watching them all day. Greg found a turtle in the yard while he was mowing (no he didn't hit it) and I saw another on the road while walking Grif (have also seen a couple dead baby ones. wah.). I wish I could see into the nest of the Blue Herons on the pond- I bet there's babies there too. Anyway, enough about nature.
Saturday's race was fun. I looked at it like a good tempo run and that's what I did. It's a rolling course with lots of shade. I had done this race when I first began running 3 years ago and ran 1:07. Was pretty sure I'd PR. We started at 9am and it was probably about 70 degrees? Really sunny. No humidity (that's key). The miles clicked by quickly and I just tried to stay comfortable but working hard and concentrated on keeping my turnover quick. Last mile and an older guy says "we're doing alright! Just stay relaxed and we'll be done in no time". And he was right, I just stayed relaxed and got to the last hill to the track and felt pretty good. Even passed a couple people on the track. Even had a smile for the finish as Greg cheered me on. (That's my new thing, I'm going to try to smile more while running...I did it during this race and I gotta say it does help a little! I know I smile in the woods when I am running with Griffin, so why not?) I finished at 58:31- 9 minutes faster then 3 years ago. And my miles were steady (7:36, 7:45, 8:02, 7:54, 7:52, 7:45, 8:10, 3:23 (.45mile)= 58:33(my watch)). I'm not sure if the 7th mile was marked a little long or I just fell off pace- I didn't feel like I did, but whatever. 17th in my age group/28th female master. Not too bad for a Grand Prix race. I feel like I should be more consistently closer to and under 7:45 pace if not 7:30. I'll work on that this coming year. Greg had a one second PR. He's pretty excited to get this marathon over with too. Hmmm just noticed on coolrunning my time is now 58:35...could have sworn it said 58:32 when Greg looked at it last night. haha
So here we are, my last post before the marathon...this week, rest, hydrate and try not to do anything stupid. "Hay is in the barn." I'm excited. I get more excited when I see a cool weather report, but after yesterdays report being high 71/low 45 it has now crept upwards...I have a bad feeling it will continue to do so. BUT it is what it is and I'm trying not to stress about it (unless checking the weather every 2 hours on three different websites is considered stressing). It's exactly like checking the weather for our wedding! If it ends up being the same we're in good shape. Anyway, I don't feel like I've had enough big mileage weeks, but I have to try to muster some confidence and just have fun with it. I have plenty of things I want to work on afterwards! After all, it's a process, and I love it!
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