Ugh, this taper time couldn't come sooner.
The last 13 mile training run took place on Saturday in our usual long run venue. Time wise, we did really well. Pain wise - not so much. My fingers are crossed that I can rest enough and make it through the next 2 weeks injury free, make it through the marathon and then deal with the aches and pains. My knee is twinging in a new spot, my calf muscle is so tight and spasming, my hip is sore, my heel is in constant pain and now the outer edge of my foot is really hurting. ALL of this is on my left leg. I'm going to imagine that somehow, it's all connected.
The mental games have started. The doubt creeps in. I know it happens at this point in training yet it still gets to me. I want to go into this confident.
Excitement is also trying to gain some footing. The pile of crap has started for me to pack, unpack, repack, unpack, etc, etc, etc. I'm planning on packing twice what I need just in case.
WEATHER. One day the forecast says rain, the next says sunny. I have gotten very lucky the last 2 years, I'm hoping the third time is a charm!
I'm tired so I don't have much to say. Next week perhaps I'll be more peppy.
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Sunday, October 14, 2012
12 and less than 20
I apologize for not filling you in on last week's 12 mile training run. Wasn't much to report. As you know, our long runs take place along the coast from Loch Arbor/Asbury Park and go out and back depending on the mileage required for that run. We do for a few reasons - bathrooms (priority!), water, scenery, people watching, and it's motivating to run when so many other people are also out there being active in some way.
Due to scheduling conflicts with both kids having soccer games around the same time but at different fields, my mom and I stayed local for last weekend's 12 miler. At this point in the training schedule, a 12 miler is actually a distance we look forward to as a much needed break for tired legs. But we take for granted how much the mind can control the situation. Since we stayed local we just ran the streets around here. SUCKED. We were like 6 miles into it and we were both complaining of boredom. Horrible. Nobody was out there, we were just zigzagging the roads to try to get our watches to jump ahead a few miles. The boredom was also allowing me time to over think - like I don't do this enough! I was not happy with that run.
Yesterday was our last (hurray!!) 20 miler for training. I was having some anxiety. I just wanted to do it and be happy with it but I knew that was a long shot. My legs have been really tired, I have not hydrated well the last week, and my left foot's plantar fasciitis has not cooperated. It's not a run to skip though so we manned up and out we went along the boardwalk. We were doing really well for I'd say the first 12 miles - we were keeping a decent slow training run pace and the walk break we took were kept to a minimum.
Since it's also the time in training to make sure that race day attire works well, I had everything on that I planned to wear race day. I don't know WTF was going on but other than my socks and sneakers, it was ALL wrong. The tank I wear under my t-shirt wouldn't stay in place and I had to keep yanking it down. The super-cute 80's inspired Team McGraw cut shirt kept falling off (a good thing in a way since it means I've gotten smaller since it was cut!), my new pants turned out to be a little too big or something because they kept sliding. Wrong, wrong, wrong. This all needs to get fixed and pronto.
Anyway, after a decent 12 miles, it shouldn't come as a surprise that the return mileage was HARD. I didn't throw myself on the boardwalk or cry (I have been known to throw dramatics in during long runs years prior) but I did walk more than I had wanted. We were hurting. Legs were like lead. We could see Asbury's Convention Hall in the not too far distance but it just felt like one of those dreams when you're in a hallway and you're trying to get to the end but the hallway keeps getting longer and longer. Finally, finally, finally we were done. Just short of 20 miles.
For about 8 hours after, my left upper side/hip all the way to the tip of my big toe HURT. Not like, "oh I'm tired and sore"...but like, "Holy shit! What is wrong with my leg? Am I going to be able to do the marathon??" I just kept stretching, took a bit of Advil and woke up this morning A-OK.
The much needed taper is here. Although I'm looking forward to the marathon - I think I'm looking more forward to it being over. Maybe it's just where I am in terms of training right now. Or maybe it's knowing I'm still slow as hell.
Due to scheduling conflicts with both kids having soccer games around the same time but at different fields, my mom and I stayed local for last weekend's 12 miler. At this point in the training schedule, a 12 miler is actually a distance we look forward to as a much needed break for tired legs. But we take for granted how much the mind can control the situation. Since we stayed local we just ran the streets around here. SUCKED. We were like 6 miles into it and we were both complaining of boredom. Horrible. Nobody was out there, we were just zigzagging the roads to try to get our watches to jump ahead a few miles. The boredom was also allowing me time to over think - like I don't do this enough! I was not happy with that run.
Yesterday was our last (hurray!!) 20 miler for training. I was having some anxiety. I just wanted to do it and be happy with it but I knew that was a long shot. My legs have been really tired, I have not hydrated well the last week, and my left foot's plantar fasciitis has not cooperated. It's not a run to skip though so we manned up and out we went along the boardwalk. We were doing really well for I'd say the first 12 miles - we were keeping a decent slow training run pace and the walk break we took were kept to a minimum.
Since it's also the time in training to make sure that race day attire works well, I had everything on that I planned to wear race day. I don't know WTF was going on but other than my socks and sneakers, it was ALL wrong. The tank I wear under my t-shirt wouldn't stay in place and I had to keep yanking it down. The super-cute 80's inspired Team McGraw cut shirt kept falling off (a good thing in a way since it means I've gotten smaller since it was cut!), my new pants turned out to be a little too big or something because they kept sliding. Wrong, wrong, wrong. This all needs to get fixed and pronto.
Anyway, after a decent 12 miles, it shouldn't come as a surprise that the return mileage was HARD. I didn't throw myself on the boardwalk or cry (I have been known to throw dramatics in during long runs years prior) but I did walk more than I had wanted. We were hurting. Legs were like lead. We could see Asbury's Convention Hall in the not too far distance but it just felt like one of those dreams when you're in a hallway and you're trying to get to the end but the hallway keeps getting longer and longer. Finally, finally, finally we were done. Just short of 20 miles.
For about 8 hours after, my left upper side/hip all the way to the tip of my big toe HURT. Not like, "oh I'm tired and sore"...but like, "Holy shit! What is wrong with my leg? Am I going to be able to do the marathon??" I just kept stretching, took a bit of Advil and woke up this morning A-OK.
The much needed taper is here. Although I'm looking forward to the marathon - I think I'm looking more forward to it being over. Maybe it's just where I am in terms of training right now. Or maybe it's knowing I'm still slow as hell.
Monday, October 1, 2012
Shy of 20!
Saturday morning was supposed to be a 20 miler...we came in a tiny bit under 20. As per our usual long run we start off in Loch Arbor, hit the Asbury Park boardwalk and just GO. And GO. And GO.
This time we took a couple of detours onto side streets in Bradley Beach and Belmar just to check a few things out. We also went a different way once we hit the end of the boardwalk - we ventured into the neighborhoods of Spring Lake and Sea Girt before turning around.
Within the first 2 miles I knew my heel was going to be a problem. My legs also felt weak and tight. It's a reminder that on weekdays I HAVE to squeeze in my workouts regardless of how tired I am.
The highlights of the run were that I caught a puppy RIGHT before he ran into Ocean Ave - got off leash on the beach and just took off. The other awesome thing was a "woman" (I put this in quote because I'm not really sure WTF I was looking at!) - full neck to ankle PLEATHER jumpsuit with knee high stiletto boots and this reddish hair that HAD to be a wig...just walking down the boardwalk.
Mom - "Is that a hooker?"
Me - "IDK but if it is she clearly doesn't do enough business...that's PLEATHER"
I'm starting to getting a little nervous. Not many long runs left. The next one is a nice "short" 12 miler....the one after that is 20 and we WILL hit 20.
I'm worried it's going to be crappy weather Marathon Sunday. I'm worried about staying close to time goal. I'm worried my heel is just going to give out.
This time we took a couple of detours onto side streets in Bradley Beach and Belmar just to check a few things out. We also went a different way once we hit the end of the boardwalk - we ventured into the neighborhoods of Spring Lake and Sea Girt before turning around.
Within the first 2 miles I knew my heel was going to be a problem. My legs also felt weak and tight. It's a reminder that on weekdays I HAVE to squeeze in my workouts regardless of how tired I am.
The highlights of the run were that I caught a puppy RIGHT before he ran into Ocean Ave - got off leash on the beach and just took off. The other awesome thing was a "woman" (I put this in quote because I'm not really sure WTF I was looking at!) - full neck to ankle PLEATHER jumpsuit with knee high stiletto boots and this reddish hair that HAD to be a wig...just walking down the boardwalk.
Mom - "Is that a hooker?"
Me - "IDK but if it is she clearly doesn't do enough business...that's PLEATHER"
I'm starting to getting a little nervous. Not many long runs left. The next one is a nice "short" 12 miler....the one after that is 20 and we WILL hit 20.
I'm worried it's going to be crappy weather Marathon Sunday. I'm worried about staying close to time goal. I'm worried my heel is just going to give out.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
17 miles!
I tried very hard to get myself back on track this last week. If you recall, the week prior was a disaster with back to school, back to early wake ups, crazy work stuff, kids back to school and their homework.
So on Saturday, I headed into the city for the New York Road Runner's 5th Avenue Mile. I have never run this before. Last year, I volunteered at this event though. Truth be told, I have NEVER run a single mile - nor have I run a mile fast. I headed to this race with a bit of anxiety. Normally, the first mile of my runs are horrible so what in the world would a single mile race be like??
This race is set up in age and gender categories. I'm placed in the female 30-39 group - the majority of the woman around me look like they are going to be FAST. Holy crap. In the corral, I'm standing behind a woman who has a normal body with meat on her bones and a cute top on - I predict she is going to run at a speed I can handle so I will keep her in my sights. Gun goes off! I'm like 1/8 of the way and I glance at my watch. UMMM....7:04. No - dangerous. For starters, I'm way too clumsy to handle this pace. Yet it does explain why my lungs are on fire. 1/4 mile sign and I want to quit. I'm not fast so why am I trying this race? But really, how embarrassing would it be to quit a one mile race when I have 26.2 in like 40 days. 1/2 mile sign - ok, I've slowed down a little but I'm still going fast. Normal girl is directly in front of me - she also went out too fast, realized it, and slowed. 3/4 mile mark - I can see the finish line! Just keep going....and then BYE BYE normal girl...I blow by her and spring the rest of the course to cross the finish line!! YEAH! Super happy. 9 minutes 14 seconds. NEVER in my whole life have I run this fast...not even in high school for the timed mile - considering I never actually participated in that and just walked a lap then lied :)
Sunday morning, bright and early, my mom and I head to our favorite long run spot. We park in Loch Arbor, make our way over to the Asbury Park boardwalk and there we go. Gorgeous day with plenty of people to look at, plenty of houses to assess, waves were solid, wind was crazy. We did pretty good! Definitely stronger than last year which is a good feeling. We took more walk breaks the 2nd half but that's ok - we got that shit done.
So on Saturday, I headed into the city for the New York Road Runner's 5th Avenue Mile. I have never run this before. Last year, I volunteered at this event though. Truth be told, I have NEVER run a single mile - nor have I run a mile fast. I headed to this race with a bit of anxiety. Normally, the first mile of my runs are horrible so what in the world would a single mile race be like??
This race is set up in age and gender categories. I'm placed in the female 30-39 group - the majority of the woman around me look like they are going to be FAST. Holy crap. In the corral, I'm standing behind a woman who has a normal body with meat on her bones and a cute top on - I predict she is going to run at a speed I can handle so I will keep her in my sights. Gun goes off! I'm like 1/8 of the way and I glance at my watch. UMMM....7:04. No - dangerous. For starters, I'm way too clumsy to handle this pace. Yet it does explain why my lungs are on fire. 1/4 mile sign and I want to quit. I'm not fast so why am I trying this race? But really, how embarrassing would it be to quit a one mile race when I have 26.2 in like 40 days. 1/2 mile sign - ok, I've slowed down a little but I'm still going fast. Normal girl is directly in front of me - she also went out too fast, realized it, and slowed. 3/4 mile mark - I can see the finish line! Just keep going....and then BYE BYE normal girl...I blow by her and spring the rest of the course to cross the finish line!! YEAH! Super happy. 9 minutes 14 seconds. NEVER in my whole life have I run this fast...not even in high school for the timed mile - considering I never actually participated in that and just walked a lap then lied :)
Sunday morning, bright and early, my mom and I head to our favorite long run spot. We park in Loch Arbor, make our way over to the Asbury Park boardwalk and there we go. Gorgeous day with plenty of people to look at, plenty of houses to assess, waves were solid, wind was crazy. We did pretty good! Definitely stronger than last year which is a good feeling. We took more walk breaks the 2nd half but that's ok - we got that shit done.
Monday, September 17, 2012
Personal Record!!!!
Yeah me!!
After a week of stress, poor sleep, not able to get all workouts in, and less than stellar diet - I somehow turned that all around and ended on a high note!
The beginning of the school year is rough. Last year and the year before during the first few weeks back to school were the worst training weeks out of them all. It came as no surprise that this year would also be rough. It's still a disappointment though.
Saturday morning was the Fitness Mind, Body Spirit 4 mile race in Central Park. It also happened to be a a nice break from a required long run. Turned out to be a gorgeous chilly morning. Since I'm not a strong runner, I don't actually "race" at a race. I start it and finish it. Yet this time, within the first two minutes of crossing the start line I picked a time goal. My legs were feeling fresh and my breathing was really easy. My goal was 45 minutes. For many - that's too long for a 4 miler but for slow ass me that's a good time goal. This would require very little walk breaks and maintaining a faster pace. I ran solid - under 11 min/mile for the 1st mile, walked through the water stop and then back to running. I did this the entire race only walking through water stations and part way up one killer hill (Central Park is a killer with the damn hills)...I also walked for a few seconds out of confusion. As I was coming up to what I thought should be a left turn and into the home stretch with the finish line in sight (this is based on previous races) - I all of a sudden realized that the course was not making a left but going straight. I got totally confused and started walking trying to figure it all out. It wasn't until I could hear (but not see) the finish line announcements that I started to run - then sprint trying to make my goal. In the end, I got very close to my goal - 45:48.
This is huge for me. It's proof that all the hard work I have been putting in is finally paying off. It also lets me know that with speed sessions, more running and less walking breaks and more running confidence, I can seriously improve my time. Maybe not in time for Nov. 4th - but it's something I will definitely put into motion after.
Until next week (assuming I survive the first 18 miler of the season!)
After a week of stress, poor sleep, not able to get all workouts in, and less than stellar diet - I somehow turned that all around and ended on a high note!
The beginning of the school year is rough. Last year and the year before during the first few weeks back to school were the worst training weeks out of them all. It came as no surprise that this year would also be rough. It's still a disappointment though.
Saturday morning was the Fitness Mind, Body Spirit 4 mile race in Central Park. It also happened to be a a nice break from a required long run. Turned out to be a gorgeous chilly morning. Since I'm not a strong runner, I don't actually "race" at a race. I start it and finish it. Yet this time, within the first two minutes of crossing the start line I picked a time goal. My legs were feeling fresh and my breathing was really easy. My goal was 45 minutes. For many - that's too long for a 4 miler but for slow ass me that's a good time goal. This would require very little walk breaks and maintaining a faster pace. I ran solid - under 11 min/mile for the 1st mile, walked through the water stop and then back to running. I did this the entire race only walking through water stations and part way up one killer hill (Central Park is a killer with the damn hills)...I also walked for a few seconds out of confusion. As I was coming up to what I thought should be a left turn and into the home stretch with the finish line in sight (this is based on previous races) - I all of a sudden realized that the course was not making a left but going straight. I got totally confused and started walking trying to figure it all out. It wasn't until I could hear (but not see) the finish line announcements that I started to run - then sprint trying to make my goal. In the end, I got very close to my goal - 45:48.
This is huge for me. It's proof that all the hard work I have been putting in is finally paying off. It also lets me know that with speed sessions, more running and less walking breaks and more running confidence, I can seriously improve my time. Maybe not in time for Nov. 4th - but it's something I will definitely put into motion after.
Until next week (assuming I survive the first 18 miler of the season!)
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Longest week
Last week was back to school week which means life got crazy again. This week is always rough in terms of training-it just loses its top priority spot for the week. I did the best I could but I wasn't able to hit everything on my training calendar.
Saturday night I headed to Point Pleasant to celebrate Michelle's birthday. I really needed this outing-some beers, salt air, good people, lots of laughs, mental health time, late night tears, and a middle of the night beach walk. Somehow my tired, old ass stayed up until 4:30am. Ummmm-that's a problem because early Sunday morning was a scheduled long run. I fell asleep in two seconds and then the alarm went off.
Got myself home by 8am and took to the streets around 8:30am. 11.5 miles completed very, very slowly. I don't know how I even managed that. Technically today was supposed to be 16 miles but with a week of not the best training, I'm ok with cutting off a couple of miles.
This coming week is also going to be hectic-after school meeting two days and kids soccer two days. Again, I will do my best.
As always, thank you for the support-it keeps me going.
Saturday night I headed to Point Pleasant to celebrate Michelle's birthday. I really needed this outing-some beers, salt air, good people, lots of laughs, mental health time, late night tears, and a middle of the night beach walk. Somehow my tired, old ass stayed up until 4:30am. Ummmm-that's a problem because early Sunday morning was a scheduled long run. I fell asleep in two seconds and then the alarm went off.
Got myself home by 8am and took to the streets around 8:30am. 11.5 miles completed very, very slowly. I don't know how I even managed that. Technically today was supposed to be 16 miles but with a week of not the best training, I'm ok with cutting off a couple of miles.
This coming week is also going to be hectic-after school meeting two days and kids soccer two days. Again, I will do my best.
As always, thank you for the support-it keeps me going.
Sunday, September 2, 2012
9 weeks to go!
Starting tomorrow there are 9 more weeks to go until the marathon! Sounds like plenty of time but in reality it's not much at all.
I'm proud of how far I've come since last year. I'm still slow as all hell but I'm so much stronger. I'm also smaller! As of today, I'm 23 pounds smaller than last year's marathon.
So for the next 9 weeks I'm going to do this blog a bit differently. I'm going to continue to post weekly after my weekend long run. I'll give a brief review of the week's training. So here goes:
Monday: 3 miles and ChaLEAN Extreme (CLX) Fat Blaster
Tuesday: CLX Recharge (light yoga/stretching) and I've Got Abs
Wednesday: 4.8 miles, CLX Burn #3 and Ab Burner
Thursday: 4.8 Miles, CLX Burn Intervals
Friday: CLX Burn #2 & CLX Burn it Off (major sciatic nerve flare up - as in saw white for a second as the pain radiated through my body. Not good.)
Saturday: 3 mile walk, CLX Recharge, and Ab Burner
Sunday: 14 miles - really painful back pain and some tummy troubles.
Back to work Tuesday. Looks like I'll be waking up around 4:45am to do strength or cross training. My runs will take place after school when I get home around 5pm. Extended day sucks. I'm going to need an IV drip of caffeine.
That's all for now. Thanks to those of you who continue to support me in some way - it doesn't go unnoticed and it's much appreciated.
I'm proud of how far I've come since last year. I'm still slow as all hell but I'm so much stronger. I'm also smaller! As of today, I'm 23 pounds smaller than last year's marathon.
So for the next 9 weeks I'm going to do this blog a bit differently. I'm going to continue to post weekly after my weekend long run. I'll give a brief review of the week's training. So here goes:
Monday: 3 miles and ChaLEAN Extreme (CLX) Fat Blaster
Tuesday: CLX Recharge (light yoga/stretching) and I've Got Abs
Wednesday: 4.8 miles, CLX Burn #3 and Ab Burner
Thursday: 4.8 Miles, CLX Burn Intervals
Friday: CLX Burn #2 & CLX Burn it Off (major sciatic nerve flare up - as in saw white for a second as the pain radiated through my body. Not good.)
Saturday: 3 mile walk, CLX Recharge, and Ab Burner
Sunday: 14 miles - really painful back pain and some tummy troubles.
Back to work Tuesday. Looks like I'll be waking up around 4:45am to do strength or cross training. My runs will take place after school when I get home around 5pm. Extended day sucks. I'm going to need an IV drip of caffeine.
That's all for now. Thanks to those of you who continue to support me in some way - it doesn't go unnoticed and it's much appreciated.
Sunday, August 26, 2012
Getting it done
12 miles done today. 25 miles done for the week PLUS ChaLEAN Extreme.
I am getting the miles in has not been hard to do thanks to summer vacation. I worry about what will happen when school starts back up soon. I have a feeling there will be a ton of coffee added to my days.
I am going into this last 10 weeks of training stronger than I was for the last two marathons. I'm strength training, cross training, stretching, properly fueling - you name, I'm doing it. I know I am stronger and that's awesome...I wish stronger also meant a tad faster too though.
I've been very angry. Angry with tumors, angry with chemo (happy it's there though too), angry at people who are assholes, angry at myself for sometimes not being able to put things in perspective, and I guess just angry at the world. But I think of Rage Against the Machine reminding me that "anger is a gift" - it is. It pushes me. Without it, I would probably be curled up in a dark corner by now.
I read an interesting statistic the other day. It was about how many times a person lies in a day, a week, a month, a year. And that the most common lie is to say, "I'm fine." Yes, how true that is. Why? Because very few people REALLY want to know the truth. Most people are either just being socially polite or just want to stay sheltered from anything that can be taken as bad.
I have more on my shoulders than most people do. Do you want to know the shit that goes through my head? No - you want me to just say, "I'm fine." So I lie to you. Right now, having to lie makes me angry but as I said already, anger motivates me. So I guess I should be thanking you for not REALLY wanting to know which puts me in a position to lie.
Don't get me wrong - most days I really am fine, most days I know that no matter what I will be fine.
And some days I know that I will always "Hold my head high but my middle finger higher."
I am getting the miles in has not been hard to do thanks to summer vacation. I worry about what will happen when school starts back up soon. I have a feeling there will be a ton of coffee added to my days.
I am going into this last 10 weeks of training stronger than I was for the last two marathons. I'm strength training, cross training, stretching, properly fueling - you name, I'm doing it. I know I am stronger and that's awesome...I wish stronger also meant a tad faster too though.
I've been very angry. Angry with tumors, angry with chemo (happy it's there though too), angry at people who are assholes, angry at myself for sometimes not being able to put things in perspective, and I guess just angry at the world. But I think of Rage Against the Machine reminding me that "anger is a gift" - it is. It pushes me. Without it, I would probably be curled up in a dark corner by now.
I read an interesting statistic the other day. It was about how many times a person lies in a day, a week, a month, a year. And that the most common lie is to say, "I'm fine." Yes, how true that is. Why? Because very few people REALLY want to know the truth. Most people are either just being socially polite or just want to stay sheltered from anything that can be taken as bad.
I have more on my shoulders than most people do. Do you want to know the shit that goes through my head? No - you want me to just say, "I'm fine." So I lie to you. Right now, having to lie makes me angry but as I said already, anger motivates me. So I guess I should be thanking you for not REALLY wanting to know which puts me in a position to lie.
Don't get me wrong - most days I really am fine, most days I know that no matter what I will be fine.
And some days I know that I will always "Hold my head high but my middle finger higher."
Saturday, August 11, 2012
Ugh.
As I sit here typing this, I'm trying to figure out a way to NOT have my negative feelings from today's run take over my entire week of training. I will do my best.
I have been working so hard. My entire body right now is just fatigued. It's not helping that I haven't been sleeping great and that I have woken up the last few days with serious sinus pressure.
During the week I spent my time doing about 4 mile runs (I've been playing around with my walk break intervals), Turbo Jam, and Turbo Sculpt. I've also been doing way more core work in order to avoid the lower back fatique as the training runs get longer.
My nutrition has been spot on. I'm logging every single thing - including GU, my coffee, whatever. I'm making much better choices yet I also refuse to totally deny myself what I love (ie: coconut ice cream).
For whatever reason I was feeling anxiety about today's long run. Probably turned out to be a self-fulfilling prophecy in a sense. A 10 miler is long but it's not a distance I'm unfamiliar with. Somehow though, I still didn't sleep - I tossed & turned and thought about it. I want to be able to just go out there and RUN. I'm so damn sick of walk breaks and feeling like a wuss. I don't get why in my 3rd marathon training season I'm STILL going the same pace and I'm still dependent on walk breaks. WTF?
I dreaded going out but skipping a long run is just not an option. I just was so beat down. My water bottles felt heavy, my legs didn't want to move, sweat was dripping in my eyes & temporarily blinding me. I wanted to just go home. I walked more than I ran which just really pissed me off. Right now, I'm just so annoyed.
I will go easy on myself the next two days. I will spend some time swimming and stretching...and maybe a brisk walk. I will get back in the running groove on Tuesday.
I have been working so hard. My entire body right now is just fatigued. It's not helping that I haven't been sleeping great and that I have woken up the last few days with serious sinus pressure.
During the week I spent my time doing about 4 mile runs (I've been playing around with my walk break intervals), Turbo Jam, and Turbo Sculpt. I've also been doing way more core work in order to avoid the lower back fatique as the training runs get longer.
My nutrition has been spot on. I'm logging every single thing - including GU, my coffee, whatever. I'm making much better choices yet I also refuse to totally deny myself what I love (ie: coconut ice cream).
For whatever reason I was feeling anxiety about today's long run. Probably turned out to be a self-fulfilling prophecy in a sense. A 10 miler is long but it's not a distance I'm unfamiliar with. Somehow though, I still didn't sleep - I tossed & turned and thought about it. I want to be able to just go out there and RUN. I'm so damn sick of walk breaks and feeling like a wuss. I don't get why in my 3rd marathon training season I'm STILL going the same pace and I'm still dependent on walk breaks. WTF?
I dreaded going out but skipping a long run is just not an option. I just was so beat down. My water bottles felt heavy, my legs didn't want to move, sweat was dripping in my eyes & temporarily blinding me. I wanted to just go home. I walked more than I ran which just really pissed me off. Right now, I'm just so annoyed.
I will go easy on myself the next two days. I will spend some time swimming and stretching...and maybe a brisk walk. I will get back in the running groove on Tuesday.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
July Wrap-Up
Since my last post, I have put in lots and lots of miles. I've been fairly consistent with my scheduled runs and I've been doing my best to incorporate cross-training and strength. I've been sticking with Turbo Jam - sometimes Cardio Party, sometimes Turbo Sculpt. Every once in a while I through in a Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred - I feel like it shocks my muscles and wakes up those that have been on autopilot.
As for my sneakers, my wallet took a hit when I opted to take the next step in the world of Newtons. Worth every penny! My piriformis, my hamstring, my knee, - you name it- are ALL happier. Which makes me happier. Cause & Effect :)
I haven't had a chance to go back into this blog and look at previous July posts but I'm confident that I said something about the heat. I have NEVER felt so hot and drained as I did on last Saturday's 12 mile long run in Florida. Obviously, on run days I made a point to get out early when it's cooler and my mom & I went the route that provided the most shade. On 3-4 mile runs, not a problem. The first Saturday we were down there, our long run was a 9 miler. HOT. We went over the bridge that was just blazing sun - the entire time I was thinking, "Holy shit, how are we going to do the 12 miler??" Throughout the week, I tried to keep my muscles primed with swimming, stretching and some water jogging/squats. I ate more than needed and I had a beverage here & there but I kept my hydration solid.
Saturday's 12 miler was a KILLER. Hot doesn't even describe it. Legs were like lead, head was foggy. There was a slow, limping walk to wrap up the mileage but it.got.done. That's what matters.
Now we are home and the training is about to seriously ramp up. I'm excited, a bit anxious, and ready for it. I'm stronger this year. I'm eating better this year.
I'm still slow - maybe I always will be. But I can go the distance. And I will.
As for my sneakers, my wallet took a hit when I opted to take the next step in the world of Newtons. Worth every penny! My piriformis, my hamstring, my knee, - you name it- are ALL happier. Which makes me happier. Cause & Effect :)
I haven't had a chance to go back into this blog and look at previous July posts but I'm confident that I said something about the heat. I have NEVER felt so hot and drained as I did on last Saturday's 12 mile long run in Florida. Obviously, on run days I made a point to get out early when it's cooler and my mom & I went the route that provided the most shade. On 3-4 mile runs, not a problem. The first Saturday we were down there, our long run was a 9 miler. HOT. We went over the bridge that was just blazing sun - the entire time I was thinking, "Holy shit, how are we going to do the 12 miler??" Throughout the week, I tried to keep my muscles primed with swimming, stretching and some water jogging/squats. I ate more than needed and I had a beverage here & there but I kept my hydration solid.
Saturday's 12 miler was a KILLER. Hot doesn't even describe it. Legs were like lead, head was foggy. There was a slow, limping walk to wrap up the mileage but it.got.done. That's what matters.
Now we are home and the training is about to seriously ramp up. I'm excited, a bit anxious, and ready for it. I'm stronger this year. I'm eating better this year.
I'm still slow - maybe I always will be. But I can go the distance. And I will.
Monday, July 9, 2012
2 weeks
So, this post will cover the last 2 weeks. After the Giants 5k I had a standard week of training. Combination of running and Turbo Jam depending on the day.
Then, we went down the shore. At the start of this trip I had the mentality of, "I'm on vacation!" Yet 2 days into the trip I woke up and realized that I don't really get a vacation from training-I just get different scenery.
I went out for my first run down there. I actually have a tough time running down the shore. Not really sure why-different routes, different allergens, lack of any kind of shade. I really just don't know. This first run turned into only 2 miles and Jillian Michael's yoga. Next day I did a Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred.
This is all great but it is Not marathon training. I can't get stronger as a runner if I constantly shy away from a run. Running would have to get done...and it did.
Now back on home turf and running is going smoothly. I have shifted some days around just to deal with the relentless heat wave.
Today's 6 miler was fantastic. I smiled. I sang. I ran. I did NOT wear a watch.
I'm working very hard to get where I want to be. Thank you for the continued support.
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Giants Stadium 5k
Worked diligently this week to make sure that my upcoming training schedule will work. I made sure to run on the days I have slated to run on. I also made sure I could fit in yoga & strength training. I love summer! What will happen when school starts back up in September is still an unknown.
I feel good. Still trying to come up with a realistic diet but I'm a work in progress. I know I am going in the right direction so I will just keep at it. This training week wrapped up with a Giants Stadium Run with Champions 5k. Last night I made a big announcement (well, I said it out loud so that's big) that I was going to run this race hard. Didn't turn out that way. Interesting crowd at this race. Lots of first time race participants (you can tell by the water stations). Obviously lots of Giants fans too.
I want to give big ups to the runners & walkers today because today was the first race I have ever been in where it was SILENT during the National Anthem. I am not an overly patriotic person but I am silent during this or sing along and it Pisses me off that people continue their conversations. Anyway-it was a nice change.
It was Hot though. You would think 82 degrees would be a treat considering the week we had but it was scorching. No shade. Cooking blacktop. Yuk. As a NYRR race you knew you could at least count on the water stations. Just hot. I just couldn't pick up my pace. It's done though. I finished yet I didn't come close to busting my PR like I had hoped.
I'm excited yet anxious to start crossing off the official marathon training days. 132 days to go. So close yet so far.
I feel good. Still trying to come up with a realistic diet but I'm a work in progress. I know I am going in the right direction so I will just keep at it. This training week wrapped up with a Giants Stadium Run with Champions 5k. Last night I made a big announcement (well, I said it out loud so that's big) that I was going to run this race hard. Didn't turn out that way. Interesting crowd at this race. Lots of first time race participants (you can tell by the water stations). Obviously lots of Giants fans too.
I want to give big ups to the runners & walkers today because today was the first race I have ever been in where it was SILENT during the National Anthem. I am not an overly patriotic person but I am silent during this or sing along and it Pisses me off that people continue their conversations. Anyway-it was a nice change.
It was Hot though. You would think 82 degrees would be a treat considering the week we had but it was scorching. No shade. Cooking blacktop. Yuk. As a NYRR race you knew you could at least count on the water stations. Just hot. I just couldn't pick up my pace. It's done though. I finished yet I didn't come close to busting my PR like I had hoped.
I'm excited yet anxious to start crossing off the official marathon training days. 132 days to go. So close yet so far.
Monday, June 18, 2012
Portugal Run
Extremely early on Father's Day I awoke to get myself together in order to hit Central Park for the Portugal run 5 miler. There used to be a day that a 5 mile run would make me anxious, then came a day when a 5 mile run was looked forward to. This run just was what it was. I knew that I could complete a 5 mile race somehow, if my leg started to hurt really bad I felt comfortable walking. But at the same, I've been trying to minimize walk breaks (or at least run faster between walk breaks!). What had me somewhat concerned was that I had not had a solid week of training.
Last week of school craziness and other obligations kept me from really being able to put any time in and left me feeling completely exhausted. 5 miles could definitely be completed but would've been even better had I had a better training week.
The race itself was fine - weather was overcast and actually a little chilly in the early hours. I cannot find my damn arm warmers anywhere so I toughed it out and started the race with goosebumps. Again, I wore the Newtons - what I like about these on a race day is that I can't walk as fast on my walk breaks so I force myself to run more. This all would be great if my left leg didn't start twinging just getting to the start line! A mile into the course and was digging my fingers into my booty muscle for counterpressure. This also left me with the rest of the rest time repeating to myself, "Make an appointment with the sports doctor, Make an appointment with the sport doctor." I got it done, slower than I would've liked but not horrible so I am content.
My pride sits with my kids right now. They are rockstars on the track. Marley brought home a 2nd place medal for the Relay Championships! Little 6 year old Sean brought home a bronze medal for the Relay Championships - a bronze medal is quite amazing considering he raced with 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders! He also was awarded with a Coach Award - an engraved trophy recognizing his awesomeness. ROCK.STARS.
With official marathon training starting in about 2 weeks I'm getting myself on track physically and mentally. I'm anxious but also excited. Miles and miles will be put in. This year I will be incorporating more yoga and strength. My nutrition is a little more primed as well.
If you haven't donated yet, I beg you to please do so. xoxo
Last week of school craziness and other obligations kept me from really being able to put any time in and left me feeling completely exhausted. 5 miles could definitely be completed but would've been even better had I had a better training week.
The race itself was fine - weather was overcast and actually a little chilly in the early hours. I cannot find my damn arm warmers anywhere so I toughed it out and started the race with goosebumps. Again, I wore the Newtons - what I like about these on a race day is that I can't walk as fast on my walk breaks so I force myself to run more. This all would be great if my left leg didn't start twinging just getting to the start line! A mile into the course and was digging my fingers into my booty muscle for counterpressure. This also left me with the rest of the rest time repeating to myself, "Make an appointment with the sports doctor, Make an appointment with the sport doctor." I got it done, slower than I would've liked but not horrible so I am content.
My pride sits with my kids right now. They are rockstars on the track. Marley brought home a 2nd place medal for the Relay Championships! Little 6 year old Sean brought home a bronze medal for the Relay Championships - a bronze medal is quite amazing considering he raced with 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders! He also was awarded with a Coach Award - an engraved trophy recognizing his awesomeness. ROCK.STARS.
With official marathon training starting in about 2 weeks I'm getting myself on track physically and mentally. I'm anxious but also excited. Miles and miles will be put in. This year I will be incorporating more yoga and strength. My nutrition is a little more primed as well.
If you haven't donated yet, I beg you to please do so. xoxo
Sunday, June 10, 2012
One of my favorites
NYC Marathon - a whopping 26.2 miles - is one of my two favorite races. The amount of training, the excitement, the crowds, all of the craziness. Fast or slow doesn't matter - it's the overall experience. I was sucked into this race when I went about 4 years ago to cheer on a dear friend. Who knew the day would be so emotional and I would be so inspired that I would participate the following year.
In training, there is racing. A way to practice race day prep, a way to practice calming of the nerves (and poop), and a way to get accustomed to race day territory. My very first race I completed before I decided to participate in the marathon. My nerves were running on high but I wasn't alone that day. I was there with the crazy woman who brought me into this running lunacy.
At some point I came to the realization that I wouldn't always be attending races with someone and that I would have to figure out how to do this on my own. Hence, the NYRR Women's Mini 10k. What better race could there be for me to do on my own? This race is about women and running. 40 years ago, women didn't run because it was thought that they couldn't handle it. Fuck that. I may be slower than slow but I WILL get it done. So my first solo race was finished!
This year a whole bunch of people I know raced the 40th anniversary Mini 10k. That's 6.4 miles of women moving. 6,122 finishers! Pretty damn awesome. I ran well for the most part. The first mile I maintained 10:15 pace - WAY too fast but I felt good and it was nice and flat. After that, once we turned into Central Park, the hills started. I slowed it down and turned on my Galloway timer (it's an small clip on timer that I use to program my walk run intervals). For this race I opted for 2 minutes of running and 30 seconds of walking. Luckily I have a math friend who entertains me by completing all race time calculations for me. She figured a run of 11 min/miles and a walk of 15 min/miles would put me around 1hr 15 min - if I hit that I would PR but it also left me about 3 minutes of wiggle room.
At exactly mile 4.75 my hamstring felt like it was going to explode. It had been twinging since about mile 2 or so but I could manage the twinges. I had on the Newtons and I truly believe that they helped me. Had I started the race heel striking, the twinges would've started sooner. I also made a point of getting into Chi running posture (as much as I know how) as often as I could - I just don't know how to maintain this posture. At mile 4.75, me, Emme, my mom & her friend Paula had all come together and were moving together at a nice steady pace when things turned from twinge to pain. I slowed down to a walk. I shook out my legs, did some quick stretches, anything to just get me moving again. By this time, my group had disappeared. I started to feel deflated as I lurched myself along the course.
I tried to run but could only go about a minute before the discomfort was just too much. Quitting is not an option so I switched gears to a super slow 1 minute jog, 1 minute walk. I kept glancing at my watch and wrestling the conflicting thoughts: I'm never going to break my time and Shut up and just finish the damn thing.
At the 800 meter mark I picked up my jog pace, took a brisk walk break right before the 400 meter mark and then RAN my ass to that finish line. A new PR was born!!
In training, there is racing. A way to practice race day prep, a way to practice calming of the nerves (and poop), and a way to get accustomed to race day territory. My very first race I completed before I decided to participate in the marathon. My nerves were running on high but I wasn't alone that day. I was there with the crazy woman who brought me into this running lunacy.
At some point I came to the realization that I wouldn't always be attending races with someone and that I would have to figure out how to do this on my own. Hence, the NYRR Women's Mini 10k. What better race could there be for me to do on my own? This race is about women and running. 40 years ago, women didn't run because it was thought that they couldn't handle it. Fuck that. I may be slower than slow but I WILL get it done. So my first solo race was finished!
This year a whole bunch of people I know raced the 40th anniversary Mini 10k. That's 6.4 miles of women moving. 6,122 finishers! Pretty damn awesome. I ran well for the most part. The first mile I maintained 10:15 pace - WAY too fast but I felt good and it was nice and flat. After that, once we turned into Central Park, the hills started. I slowed it down and turned on my Galloway timer (it's an small clip on timer that I use to program my walk run intervals). For this race I opted for 2 minutes of running and 30 seconds of walking. Luckily I have a math friend who entertains me by completing all race time calculations for me. She figured a run of 11 min/miles and a walk of 15 min/miles would put me around 1hr 15 min - if I hit that I would PR but it also left me about 3 minutes of wiggle room.
At exactly mile 4.75 my hamstring felt like it was going to explode. It had been twinging since about mile 2 or so but I could manage the twinges. I had on the Newtons and I truly believe that they helped me. Had I started the race heel striking, the twinges would've started sooner. I also made a point of getting into Chi running posture (as much as I know how) as often as I could - I just don't know how to maintain this posture. At mile 4.75, me, Emme, my mom & her friend Paula had all come together and were moving together at a nice steady pace when things turned from twinge to pain. I slowed down to a walk. I shook out my legs, did some quick stretches, anything to just get me moving again. By this time, my group had disappeared. I started to feel deflated as I lurched myself along the course.
I tried to run but could only go about a minute before the discomfort was just too much. Quitting is not an option so I switched gears to a super slow 1 minute jog, 1 minute walk. I kept glancing at my watch and wrestling the conflicting thoughts: I'm never going to break my time and Shut up and just finish the damn thing.
At the 800 meter mark I picked up my jog pace, took a brisk walk break right before the 400 meter mark and then RAN my ass to that finish line. A new PR was born!!
Sunday, June 3, 2012
Bras, Bras, and Freebies
There are so many things I need to talk about today. I don't even know where to start so I will just go through my last week and hopefully keep you entertained.
Sport Bra! Get your sport bra!
I have quite a few sports bras. I take care of my girls and I don't screw around when it comes to support. Two of my bras (Champion) have my approval for long runs, two bras for short & medium runs, and one bra just for yoga. I would really love to purchase another super supportive sports bra for long runs. Problem is that I have been losing weight, gaining muscle, and shape shifting so I'm hesitant to get a bra right now and wind up wasting $50 or so. However, I love a good sale so when I came across a brand name sports bra on a running website for 50% off I jumped at the chance.
Good thing I'm smart and opted to try this bra out during Turbo Jam instead of out on the streets for a run. Within 5 minutes of twisting and punching, the front zipper unzipped and there I was exposed. Not good. What if I was out for a run and this happened??
Pain. Serious Pain. Piriformis, hamstring, IT band, - basically from the knee to my hip on the left side. I'm working very hard to fix this. Building up the muscles, foam rolling, stretching, etc. I'm making an appointment to see a nearby doctor who specializes in sports medicine. He is an endurance athlete himself so hopefully he'll get me going good. Or at least get me to massage therapy or something.
Due to the pain, I've been scared of running. I know it's going to hurt. Yet when I wear the Newton's my mom got, the pain is seriously reduced. Thankfully, my mom loves me and just gave these miracle sneakers to me so I don't have to shell out $175. I will keep transitioning to them - and perhaps someday I will be a full time Newton runner. For now I will remain part-time Asics, part-time Newton.
As a New York Road Runner member and 9+1 participant, I volunteer at one race per year. Last year I handed out bagels post-race. This year I was at the t-shirt tent. Despite the fact that I had to wake up at 4 IN THE MORNING, I was still managing to have a good time. By 8:30am, the race started and we were told we were done. Wait! Not so fast! They decide to move us over to the "festival" area to hand out free junk food. As annoying as this was, I couldn't really say anything because a volunteer spot is a 4-hour shift and I had only done 2 hours. All was going well handing out the MSG laden garbage until the feisty post-race runners and spectators forgot about manners and started pushing & shoving each other. No, I'm not having that. I offered up my middle school teacher scowl and told them to settle themselves down and stop pushing for FREE JUNK FOOD - f*cking idiots. My mom's side of the freebie table was even more chaotic with pushing & shoving. She had to get all kindergarten teacher-y on them and withhold the treats until they could get their acts together. Jesu Cristo people - it's nasty ass chips we're talking about here. No need to become barbaric.
Weekly Public Service Announcement: If you are a woman with an A cup - DD cup+ WEAR A BRA. I do not care what you do in your house or in your yard but out in public, PLEASE spare the rest of us and put a friggin' bra on.
Next Saturday is the Mini 10k. Other than the marathon - this is my favorite race. Can't wait to tell you all about it!
Sport Bra! Get your sport bra!
I have quite a few sports bras. I take care of my girls and I don't screw around when it comes to support. Two of my bras (Champion) have my approval for long runs, two bras for short & medium runs, and one bra just for yoga. I would really love to purchase another super supportive sports bra for long runs. Problem is that I have been losing weight, gaining muscle, and shape shifting so I'm hesitant to get a bra right now and wind up wasting $50 or so. However, I love a good sale so when I came across a brand name sports bra on a running website for 50% off I jumped at the chance.
Good thing I'm smart and opted to try this bra out during Turbo Jam instead of out on the streets for a run. Within 5 minutes of twisting and punching, the front zipper unzipped and there I was exposed. Not good. What if I was out for a run and this happened??
Pain. Serious Pain. Piriformis, hamstring, IT band, - basically from the knee to my hip on the left side. I'm working very hard to fix this. Building up the muscles, foam rolling, stretching, etc. I'm making an appointment to see a nearby doctor who specializes in sports medicine. He is an endurance athlete himself so hopefully he'll get me going good. Or at least get me to massage therapy or something.
Due to the pain, I've been scared of running. I know it's going to hurt. Yet when I wear the Newton's my mom got, the pain is seriously reduced. Thankfully, my mom loves me and just gave these miracle sneakers to me so I don't have to shell out $175. I will keep transitioning to them - and perhaps someday I will be a full time Newton runner. For now I will remain part-time Asics, part-time Newton.
As a New York Road Runner member and 9+1 participant, I volunteer at one race per year. Last year I handed out bagels post-race. This year I was at the t-shirt tent. Despite the fact that I had to wake up at 4 IN THE MORNING, I was still managing to have a good time. By 8:30am, the race started and we were told we were done. Wait! Not so fast! They decide to move us over to the "festival" area to hand out free junk food. As annoying as this was, I couldn't really say anything because a volunteer spot is a 4-hour shift and I had only done 2 hours. All was going well handing out the MSG laden garbage until the feisty post-race runners and spectators forgot about manners and started pushing & shoving each other. No, I'm not having that. I offered up my middle school teacher scowl and told them to settle themselves down and stop pushing for FREE JUNK FOOD - f*cking idiots. My mom's side of the freebie table was even more chaotic with pushing & shoving. She had to get all kindergarten teacher-y on them and withhold the treats until they could get their acts together. Jesu Cristo people - it's nasty ass chips we're talking about here. No need to become barbaric.
Weekly Public Service Announcement: If you are a woman with an A cup - DD cup+ WEAR A BRA. I do not care what you do in your house or in your yard but out in public, PLEASE spare the rest of us and put a friggin' bra on.
Next Saturday is the Mini 10k. Other than the marathon - this is my favorite race. Can't wait to tell you all about it!
Sunday, May 20, 2012
For the love of...SNEAKERS!
I own lots of sneakers.
Somewhere in my thick noggin' I think I will one day come across a pair of sneakers that will magically make me fast. This will be my fourth year "running" which means it's also my fourth year buying sneakers. Saucony, Asics, Adidas, Nike, Mizuno, and Newtons. I've seriously also considered Vibram 5 Fingers but I just couldn't do it.
So this time around, I went to The Sneaker Factory armed with my history of sneakers and likes/dislikes of each. After actually listening to me, the guy came out with 3 different pairs of sneakers. The second I slid my foot into the new Asics Gel Neo33 - I knew I had found my sneaker. They are so fancy - all black with purple and lime green accents. Love!
However, I got my hands on a pair of $185 Newtons. Well, I didn't really. My mom - the other sneaker junkie - did. We took a ride to the Jersey Shore Marathon Expo since you can usually get some goods for cheap - headbands, socks, etc. Road Runner Sports had a big booth where ALL sneakers were $50 but if you bought three pairs they were $40 each. My mom can't pass up a deal...AND they had her regular sneakers so she was able to get herself another back up pair. And she grabbed the Newtons for a "What the Hell" experience.
So on one of our runs we warmed up for a mile and then she switched into the Newton's for the 2nd mile and then back to her regular sneakers. She liked them enough.
Saturdays run was my turn to give them a try. About a mile warm up in my Asics and then on went the Newtons. I like them. Lots. Like maybe love. It makes taking walk breaks a little difficult but I didn't feel the need to take as many walk breaks. I will say this though - I am a moderate heel striker regardless of what shoe I put on. My mom is sitting there going, "You CAN'T heel strike in them. They are designed to prevent that!" And then me, "Ma, I'm telling you, my heel WANTS to heel strike. A little wedge on the ball of my foot isn't going to win this battle!"
Yet the heel strike just didn't seem as harsh. I was also prepared for some sore calves the following day but that never happened! I'm going to try them a few times here & there to see how they feel.
Somewhere in my thick noggin' I think I will one day come across a pair of sneakers that will magically make me fast. This will be my fourth year "running" which means it's also my fourth year buying sneakers. Saucony, Asics, Adidas, Nike, Mizuno, and Newtons. I've seriously also considered Vibram 5 Fingers but I just couldn't do it.
So this time around, I went to The Sneaker Factory armed with my history of sneakers and likes/dislikes of each. After actually listening to me, the guy came out with 3 different pairs of sneakers. The second I slid my foot into the new Asics Gel Neo33 - I knew I had found my sneaker. They are so fancy - all black with purple and lime green accents. Love!
However, I got my hands on a pair of $185 Newtons. Well, I didn't really. My mom - the other sneaker junkie - did. We took a ride to the Jersey Shore Marathon Expo since you can usually get some goods for cheap - headbands, socks, etc. Road Runner Sports had a big booth where ALL sneakers were $50 but if you bought three pairs they were $40 each. My mom can't pass up a deal...AND they had her regular sneakers so she was able to get herself another back up pair. And she grabbed the Newtons for a "What the Hell" experience.
So on one of our runs we warmed up for a mile and then she switched into the Newton's for the 2nd mile and then back to her regular sneakers. She liked them enough.
Saturdays run was my turn to give them a try. About a mile warm up in my Asics and then on went the Newtons. I like them. Lots. Like maybe love. It makes taking walk breaks a little difficult but I didn't feel the need to take as many walk breaks. I will say this though - I am a moderate heel striker regardless of what shoe I put on. My mom is sitting there going, "You CAN'T heel strike in them. They are designed to prevent that!" And then me, "Ma, I'm telling you, my heel WANTS to heel strike. A little wedge on the ball of my foot isn't going to win this battle!"
Yet the heel strike just didn't seem as harsh. I was also prepared for some sore calves the following day but that never happened! I'm going to try them a few times here & there to see how they feel.
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Happy Momma's Day
To kick off the day, my mom and I ventured to Central Park to run our 2nd Japan Day four miler.
4:15am wake up, enough coffee to feel human and an easy train ride in turned bad when my digestive track decided today would be the day to go bonkers. This is not fair. I was really looking forward to running a good race and feeling a sense of accomplishment with an improved finish time. By the time I got to Penn Station and had to power walk to the bathroom I was confident that today wasn't going to be my day for running.
TWO Immodium and 3 port-a-potty visits before the race start. Not good. I completed the race but I wound up having to power walk 99% of it. The running movement jostled my insides too much and had me hunting and whimpering for a potty. I considered quitting but 1) I want the damn race credit and 2) I would still have to get all the way to the finish line to get back on the subway so...I walked it. I finished. My time turned out to not be all that bad anyway so I'll deal with it.
It's a beautiful day so I'm not going to let a little poop ruin it - that's for sure!
4:15am wake up, enough coffee to feel human and an easy train ride in turned bad when my digestive track decided today would be the day to go bonkers. This is not fair. I was really looking forward to running a good race and feeling a sense of accomplishment with an improved finish time. By the time I got to Penn Station and had to power walk to the bathroom I was confident that today wasn't going to be my day for running.
TWO Immodium and 3 port-a-potty visits before the race start. Not good. I completed the race but I wound up having to power walk 99% of it. The running movement jostled my insides too much and had me hunting and whimpering for a potty. I considered quitting but 1) I want the damn race credit and 2) I would still have to get all the way to the finish line to get back on the subway so...I walked it. I finished. My time turned out to not be all that bad anyway so I'll deal with it.
It's a beautiful day so I'm not going to let a little poop ruin it - that's for sure!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)