Monday, March 31, 2008
Ouch.
My trainer killed me today. I may never be able to walk again. And I was thinking that before he had me do a stair running/calf raise combo that added up to a total of 130 calf raises. Yow. So, it's been nice while it lasted ;)
Weekend Recap
Saturday, March 28
I woke up in a bit of a funk and stayed there most of the day. The weekends I don't have a lot of lab work are tough because I spend my free time thinking about how much better free time would be with DBF and then I get lonely. That not-alone-but-lonely feeling is awful and saps my motivation to do much of anything. Finally that afternoon I put my running clothes on and made myself get out there, knowing that even if it didn't completely snap me out of it, it would make me feel better.
Apparently I was trying to out-run the black cloud over my head because I was not slow. And I felt great, physically - my "just relax and go with it" strategy for my pace led me to a new PR for my 6.3-mile loop!
6.3 miles in 52:04 (8:10 min/mile)
Sunday, March 30
Long runs this time of year are tough because when I wake up and it's 20 degrees but with the promise of peaking in the 40's, I really have a hard time not waiting until the weather improves. So, yesterday I reversed my regular routine and did errands right away in the morning, planning on heading out for a 12-miler at about 2. The prospect of wearing shorts, even though I have to run later, is enough motivation for me to take my day slow to be able to run later.
My legs were generally achy as I started my run, thanks to my speedy run yesterday. I had some strange aches in places I normally don't, the most persistent one being on the inside of my left calf. It wasn't pain, but it almost felt like I had a bruise there and the pounding was making it ache. It eventually did subside and never got worse, so I don't think anything is wrong with my leg, per se, but it just wanted to talk. I did have a few miles in the middle of the run (probably about miles 6-9 where I really did feel perfectly in my groove and weightless. This is the longest run I've done since my half marathon in January, actually. And it's the distance at which the long runs in my training plan for the Hamptons marathon will start.
Next Sunday I am running a 10-mile race in D.C. I hope to keep the mileage around the 32-ish mark, despite the race, since I want to cut back next week as it is the week before the start of my training plan.
12.3 miles in 1:50:08 (8:57 min/mile)
I woke up in a bit of a funk and stayed there most of the day. The weekends I don't have a lot of lab work are tough because I spend my free time thinking about how much better free time would be with DBF and then I get lonely. That not-alone-but-lonely feeling is awful and saps my motivation to do much of anything. Finally that afternoon I put my running clothes on and made myself get out there, knowing that even if it didn't completely snap me out of it, it would make me feel better.
Apparently I was trying to out-run the black cloud over my head because I was not slow. And I felt great, physically - my "just relax and go with it" strategy for my pace led me to a new PR for my 6.3-mile loop!
6.3 miles in 52:04 (8:10 min/mile)
Sunday, March 30
Long runs this time of year are tough because when I wake up and it's 20 degrees but with the promise of peaking in the 40's, I really have a hard time not waiting until the weather improves. So, yesterday I reversed my regular routine and did errands right away in the morning, planning on heading out for a 12-miler at about 2. The prospect of wearing shorts, even though I have to run later, is enough motivation for me to take my day slow to be able to run later.
My legs were generally achy as I started my run, thanks to my speedy run yesterday. I had some strange aches in places I normally don't, the most persistent one being on the inside of my left calf. It wasn't pain, but it almost felt like I had a bruise there and the pounding was making it ache. It eventually did subside and never got worse, so I don't think anything is wrong with my leg, per se, but it just wanted to talk. I did have a few miles in the middle of the run (probably about miles 6-9 where I really did feel perfectly in my groove and weightless. This is the longest run I've done since my half marathon in January, actually. And it's the distance at which the long runs in my training plan for the Hamptons marathon will start.
Next Sunday I am running a 10-mile race in D.C. I hope to keep the mileage around the 32-ish mark, despite the race, since I want to cut back next week as it is the week before the start of my training plan.
12.3 miles in 1:50:08 (8:57 min/mile)
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Fartlek Thursday
No matter how long I call myself a runner, I'll still briefly giggle at the word fartlek. I guess it's my inner child. But maybe that's ok, because fartlek runs have that sense of childish improvisation about them: run faster to race to the lightpost, slow down up a hill, let your legs carry you wildly down a hill, sprint until your chest burns and heart pounds and you feel alive. It's freeing to let your body do the talking and not think about whether or not you're hitting splits or getting a course PR. I always finish these runs with a sense that I have reminded myself why I love to run.
This morning I had to be up especially early to collect a sample in lab for a time sensitive experiment. The great thing about being a student and a scientist is that there is no dress code (both a blessing and a curse because some people would perhaps do better with a dress code that did not include old t-shirts and ratty jeans, but I digress...). I was able to wear my running clothes to lab, spend some time in lab, and then hit the road around 9am. I was happy with the timing, particularly because I managed to beat the onset of muscle soreness from my training session yesterday (well, almost... my glutes were already screaming when I woke up this morning). My legs felt a bit tired but loosened up after a few faster segments. I did my normal 6-mile loop through the park backwards - this always helps mix things up and changes the scenery on a course I have memorized. When I returned home, I did a lot of stretching, complete with the Stick and the foam roller. Tomorrow is a rest day, unless you count the yoga class I'm hoping to make.
6.3 miles in 52:51 (8:18 min/mile average pace)
This morning I had to be up especially early to collect a sample in lab for a time sensitive experiment. The great thing about being a student and a scientist is that there is no dress code (both a blessing and a curse because some people would perhaps do better with a dress code that did not include old t-shirts and ratty jeans, but I digress...). I was able to wear my running clothes to lab, spend some time in lab, and then hit the road around 9am. I was happy with the timing, particularly because I managed to beat the onset of muscle soreness from my training session yesterday (well, almost... my glutes were already screaming when I woke up this morning). My legs felt a bit tired but loosened up after a few faster segments. I did my normal 6-mile loop through the park backwards - this always helps mix things up and changes the scenery on a course I have memorized. When I returned home, I did a lot of stretching, complete with the Stick and the foam roller. Tomorrow is a rest day, unless you count the yoga class I'm hoping to make.
6.3 miles in 52:51 (8:18 min/mile average pace)
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Back at it...
My legs have been on the dead side the past few days, so I've gone easy on them. Monday I normally work legs with my trainer, but I requested arms instead. I moved yesterday's mileage to today. I decided to run to the gym before today's training session. The weather is finally feeling like spring is coming, so it was nice to be able to enjoy that in the middle of the day. My session was at 11am so I took off at about 10:20 from lab at a nice, easy, relaxed pace. I usually run to the gym by sticking to the streets, making it about a 3.5 mile trip. I decided to run on the path along the East River, figuring it wouldn't add too much on. Well, I was apparently geographically impaired and forgot how much the island bulges out, taking me pretty far east. So, instead it was closer to 5 miles, making me a few minute late for my session. It also meant I jumped right in, without much time to catch my breath, so my ass was definitely kicked. I suppose that's the reason I pay my trainer.
4.9 miles in 41:43 (8:34 min/mile)
4.9 miles in 41:43 (8:34 min/mile)
Marathon Fever
Time to dust off the ol' blog because I have just registered for the Hamptons Marathon!
I didn't think I'd be able to do a marathon this year. I anticipate graduating this year and moving overseas, and since I don't know exactly when that's all happening, I resigned myself to forgoing a 2008 marathon. However, the knowledge I'd have time to train, on top of being the most consistent and most in-shape running wise I've ever been has been haunting me. That, and the elusive BQ that wasn't meant to be given the weather conditions at last year's Twin Cities. I guess just the fact that I found this marathon meant I was looking for a marathon meant I wanted to run ;)
The marathon is September 27th, and for a variety of reasons I am 98% sure I will be in New York that weekend no matter what. It seemed like too good of an opportunity to pass up. It doesn't hurt matters that DBF will be in town that weekend (I'm trying to persuade him to sign up for the half...) and I don't have to worry too much about travel arrangements.
I'm planning on following the Pfitz 24/55 training plan, so I'll be starting soon! I've been running 30-40 mpw for a while now, so I should be set to crank it up a few notches. Wish me luck!!!
I didn't think I'd be able to do a marathon this year. I anticipate graduating this year and moving overseas, and since I don't know exactly when that's all happening, I resigned myself to forgoing a 2008 marathon. However, the knowledge I'd have time to train, on top of being the most consistent and most in-shape running wise I've ever been has been haunting me. That, and the elusive BQ that wasn't meant to be given the weather conditions at last year's Twin Cities. I guess just the fact that I found this marathon meant I was looking for a marathon meant I wanted to run ;)
The marathon is September 27th, and for a variety of reasons I am 98% sure I will be in New York that weekend no matter what. It seemed like too good of an opportunity to pass up. It doesn't hurt matters that DBF will be in town that weekend (I'm trying to persuade him to sign up for the half...) and I don't have to worry too much about travel arrangements.
I'm planning on following the Pfitz 24/55 training plan, so I'll be starting soon! I've been running 30-40 mpw for a while now, so I should be set to crank it up a few notches. Wish me luck!!!
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Wow, two posts in two days!
Monday, July 30: I barely had time for today's run, so I was happy to sneak in 3 miles in the middle of an experiment. Showing up to lab post-run all sweaty is always fun - haha. My quads were still a bit sore, and most definitely tired. Recovery runs are always borderline torturous to do, but I always feel better afterwards and the next day if I trudge through them. 2.7 miles in 26:48 (9:46 mpm)
Tuesday, July 21: Got up early to get in my scheduled 9-miler. My goal for this run was just to listen to my body and go as fast or as slow as it wanted. The first couple miles were spent waking up and loosening up, getting rid of all the creaks in my legs. After Mile 3, I could open up a bit and fall into a more comfortable pace and it felt really great. I flew the last couple miles back home, finally feeling strong and energized. 8.9 miles in 1:20:48 (9:04 mpm)
Tuesday, July 21: Got up early to get in my scheduled 9-miler. My goal for this run was just to listen to my body and go as fast or as slow as it wanted. The first couple miles were spent waking up and loosening up, getting rid of all the creaks in my legs. After Mile 3, I could open up a bit and fall into a more comfortable pace and it felt really great. I flew the last couple miles back home, finally feeling strong and energized. 8.9 miles in 1:20:48 (9:04 mpm)
Monday, July 30, 2007
Weekend Running
Saturday: This week's long run called for 17 miles. Like last week, I started the run with BF, who again turned around after 6 miles while I continued on. It was overcast at the beginning, which felt great, but then the sun came out and it was a bit toast on the west side, miles 7-13 or so. But, I felt good! I tried running a chunk without my iPod, since I won't have one during the actual marathon, and I only put the headphones on at about mile 13 for an extra little boost over the last several miles. I ended my run at Gristede's in order to pick up some chocolate milk and a bag of ice for my recovery. I'm really a fan of the ice bath, I definitely think it helps loads to make my legs feel better the day after! 16.75 miles in 2:41 (9:36 mpm)
Sunday: My quads were a bit sore today - nothing too bad but I definitely felt them. I was out of town for the night, so my run wasn't going to happen until the afternoon. And afternoon turned into early evening waiting for the rain to stop. Once it passed, it was still cloudy and a pleasant temperature (if maybe a little too humid) to run. The park was quiet, making the fact my iPod was out of batteries not too torturous - I was able to enjoy the quiet. The first few miles were tough mentally as I tried to get my legs loosened up and prepared for a potential rough 8 miles if they didn't. Over the rolling hills of the park, I found myself more grateful for the uphills than the down, as my quads burned on the declines. I didn't break any speed records, but it was a good run. I'm now appreciative of the fact the long run is supposed to come after this run, normally, as it's tough to do a longer run the day after a long run. 8.3 miles in 1:16:19 (9:09 mpm)
Sunday: My quads were a bit sore today - nothing too bad but I definitely felt them. I was out of town for the night, so my run wasn't going to happen until the afternoon. And afternoon turned into early evening waiting for the rain to stop. Once it passed, it was still cloudy and a pleasant temperature (if maybe a little too humid) to run. The park was quiet, making the fact my iPod was out of batteries not too torturous - I was able to enjoy the quiet. The first few miles were tough mentally as I tried to get my legs loosened up and prepared for a potential rough 8 miles if they didn't. Over the rolling hills of the park, I found myself more grateful for the uphills than the down, as my quads burned on the declines. I didn't break any speed records, but it was a good run. I'm now appreciative of the fact the long run is supposed to come after this run, normally, as it's tough to do a longer run the day after a long run. 8.3 miles in 1:16:19 (9:09 mpm)
Friday, July 27, 2007
Week in Review
I swear I didn't fall off the face of the earth, just haven't been able to update... so here I am!
In general, I felt much better this week than last, energy-wise. I think last week's fatigue was a result of some strange eating habits and appetite weirdness going on. This week, I made a huge effort to monitor went into my mouth to make sure I fueled myself properly, and wouldn't ya know it, I feel much better!
On to the runs:
Sat 7/21: I failed miserably at my attempt to evenly split MP. My idea of 8:20 was apparently much different than what an 8:20 actually feels like. I could not get my body to run slower than an 8:15. I've since deleted all my splits, but it was a disaster. I felt great the whole time, not like I was doing a tempo run or anything, so I'm not sure what was up. I'm glad I figured this out, though, so that on future MP runs I can be very diligent about pace. 8.33 in 1:08.17 (8:11 mpm)
Sun 7/22: 16-miler! Ran 6 with BF until his turn-around for his scheduled 12-miler, and continued around Manhattan. It was the first time I've had to loop back up along the West side and I enjoyed the change of scenery. Took a Gu after 75 mins or so with diluted Gatorade and that seemed to work well. Started a little later than normal and it was humid, but survived :) 15.9 miles in 2:32:19 (9:34 mpm)
Mon 7/23: Uneventful recovery 3-miler on the treadmill. Legs felt good today - probably has to do with the lovely ice bath after Sunday's run - must do this all the time! 3 miles in 28:56 (9:38 mpm)
Tues 7/24: Lovely 8-miler - first half done with BF. Very nice pace, very nice morning. 8.5 miles in 1:14:49 (8:49 mpm)
Wed 7/25: 4-mile recovery run. Went to work for a bit first before heading out - I think I like waking up and digesting at work before running, but unfortunately it's the time of year when this isn't always possible. 10am may have been fine today, but normally it's too hot! 4 miles in 35:05 (8:50 mpm)
Thurs 7/26: 4-mile tempo run. My warm-up to the park was scary: my legs felt heavy and I didn't think the tempo part of the run had the possibility of being good. I stopped after a mile to drink water and stretch, and when I started moving again, I felt looser. I thought if I hit 8 mpm on the tempo, I'd be happy, and I managed that. I did my normal loop backwards, as well, putting the hillier section in the first couple miles to get them over with, and that always helps mentally. 6.4 miles in 51:29 - middle 4 miles in 31:20 (7:50 mpm) (8:04 mpm together)
In general, I felt much better this week than last, energy-wise. I think last week's fatigue was a result of some strange eating habits and appetite weirdness going on. This week, I made a huge effort to monitor went into my mouth to make sure I fueled myself properly, and wouldn't ya know it, I feel much better!
On to the runs:
Sat 7/21: I failed miserably at my attempt to evenly split MP. My idea of 8:20 was apparently much different than what an 8:20 actually feels like. I could not get my body to run slower than an 8:15. I've since deleted all my splits, but it was a disaster. I felt great the whole time, not like I was doing a tempo run or anything, so I'm not sure what was up. I'm glad I figured this out, though, so that on future MP runs I can be very diligent about pace. 8.33 in 1:08.17 (8:11 mpm)
Sun 7/22: 16-miler! Ran 6 with BF until his turn-around for his scheduled 12-miler, and continued around Manhattan. It was the first time I've had to loop back up along the West side and I enjoyed the change of scenery. Took a Gu after 75 mins or so with diluted Gatorade and that seemed to work well. Started a little later than normal and it was humid, but survived :) 15.9 miles in 2:32:19 (9:34 mpm)
Mon 7/23: Uneventful recovery 3-miler on the treadmill. Legs felt good today - probably has to do with the lovely ice bath after Sunday's run - must do this all the time! 3 miles in 28:56 (9:38 mpm)
Tues 7/24: Lovely 8-miler - first half done with BF. Very nice pace, very nice morning. 8.5 miles in 1:14:49 (8:49 mpm)
Wed 7/25: 4-mile recovery run. Went to work for a bit first before heading out - I think I like waking up and digesting at work before running, but unfortunately it's the time of year when this isn't always possible. 10am may have been fine today, but normally it's too hot! 4 miles in 35:05 (8:50 mpm)
Thurs 7/26: 4-mile tempo run. My warm-up to the park was scary: my legs felt heavy and I didn't think the tempo part of the run had the possibility of being good. I stopped after a mile to drink water and stretch, and when I started moving again, I felt looser. I thought if I hit 8 mpm on the tempo, I'd be happy, and I managed that. I did my normal loop backwards, as well, putting the hillier section in the first couple miles to get them over with, and that always helps mentally. 6.4 miles in 51:29 - middle 4 miles in 31:20 (7:50 mpm) (8:04 mpm together)
Friday, July 20, 2007
Tired, apparently
Wednesday night I got home from work around 6:30 and was going to run, but instead I accidentally fell asleep... I guess if I fell asleep that quickly, I needed a nap more than I needed a run. I will plan on an easy 3 on Friday, instead!
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
This week
M: 3 mile recovery run
T: 8 mile run
W: 4 mile recovery run
Th: 5xhills
F: rest day
S: 8 mile MP
S: 16 mile long run
T: 8 mile run
W: 4 mile recovery run
Th: 5xhills
F: rest day
S: 8 mile MP
S: 16 mile long run
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