Saturday, July 31, 2010

Slow Ride, Take it Easy...

My actual training plan doesn't begin until August 17th, but I'm trying to maintain somewhat of a base mileage now. You know, giving it the old college try. A typical week looks something like this:

Monday: Yoga, Upper body in the gym
Tuesday: 3mile easy run, legs in the gym
Wednesday: Yoga, Bike or Swim
Thursday: Yoga, Legs in the gym, 25min arc trainer
Friday: 3mile hill run
Saturday: OFF
Sunday: "Long" run of 4 or 5 miles right now

Honorable Mention: Each run is followed by at least 15min of stretching.

Lessons thus far:

*Less is sometimes more. Life will happen and that's okay. If you miss a run, have to reschedule, etc. do not panic. Don't over do your activity and remember the value in rest days.
*Running one-way is better for me. I've done both, and okay, most of my runs were out and back. But, I've learned that my energy level stays up if I get on a one-way train.
*The lake is essential. Thus far, that big, cooling plunge into the lake has really been helping to alleviate cramping, tight muscles, etc. and I am far less sore the other day. Make it a point to continue this!!

Did I mention in my last post that I'm looking at scoring a couple of pairs of new sneaks? I'm a high-arched, neutral-to-under pronator. So, (I still have to go try them on) but I'm thinking I'm going to get the Muzino Wave Rider 13 for days when I'm moving quicker, feeling strong. I'd like to alternate those with the Asics Gel-Nimbus 12 for a super soft, plush ride. I'm sure that they will make all the difference.. wink wink.

Mentally, I'm doing good with the distances thus far. I think "Hey, I just ran five miles! That's just a bit under half way!" But, at the same time, I try to take the advice of other runners and seriously respect the distance. 13.1miles is no joke, especially for a novice runner such as myself. I have a couple of helpful 'mantras' that get me through.

"Let the mind dictate the body."
"I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me."
"One step at a time."
"It's just you and the pavement, baby."


Tomorrow is supposed to be a rainy day. Wish me luck on my five mile run!

Sunday, July 18, 2010

Mid July

Hi out there.
I don't start my actual training plan for my half until the middle of August. But I have been sneaky... and I have been active.

I've been doing 3-4 runs a week, trying to stay conditioned and build up a decent base mileage before jumping in feet first. I'm following the schedule (1 long run, shorter runs during the week, some interval, some tempo, etc.).

Tonight was my 'long' run of just over 4 miles. It felt great. My favorite running quote has always been "You never feel worse AFTER a run!" Boy is that the truth. I come home with an extra shot of vigor, ready to tackle new chores, bouncing up and down.

It's been hot for our area, high 80s, mid 90s. When I'm done with my run, I walk outback, I don't even come inside the house, I kick off my shoes, toss my ipod on the bench, and splash...

It does wonders. It helps soothe my muscles, cool me off, stretch me out. It is the perfect conclusion to a nice long run and I am truly blessed.

After a bit of paddling about I make sure to take my 15 minutes to stretch. I've been trying to make sure that I include:

Calf stretches
Butterfly (groin) stretch
Straight Leg stretch (hits all the way down the backs of your legs)
Lower Back
Hammies/Quads
Ankle rolls
Shoulders

Here's a great resource for a super in depth explanation on stretching and some must do stretches for every runner.

http://www.runtheplanet.com/trainingracing/stretching/

Since I'm in the early stages of my running, I've been admiring lots of fun toys. Specifically a new pace watch, a spibelt, and possibly a road IDtag.

Splibelt is one of the sponsors of the HM in St. Pete, and for good reason. http://store.spibelt.com/default.asp

It is exciting to be looking at all of these new gadgets, educating myself, and feeling strong and accomplished.

Tomorrow, my legs will rest. Ahhh.

It is off to the gym for stretching & upperbody work.


When I think about the task that is before me, I try to remember:
“If God sends us on strong paths, we are provided strong shoes.” --Corrie TenBoom