Things have shifted this week.
After the rain finally got out of here, the temps dropped. We now have perfect running weather, even in the afternoon.
Since there was no swim class this week, I slept in and did both my Monday speed work and Wednesday tempo runs in the afternoons. Then while I was at it, I slept in on Tuesday and Thursday and did my cross training on the trainer in the evening while watching TV. I felt great on all my workouts. Got close to the required pace on the 6 x800's on Monday. Then nailed my long tempo pace on Wednesday on my 8 mile run. The trainer rides were nothing special but filled the cross training requirement of my plan.
My long run this week will be at The Middle Half tomorrow, making today a rest day.
Friday, October 02, 2009
Friday, September 25, 2009
Issues
I have been having some issues with my runs lately. I got hit with the three biggest this morning for my long run.
The first I have already talked about...humidity. When I went to bed last night it was raining so I knew I was in for a humid, if not wet, run this morning. When I got up at 3am, I was glad to not hear any rain. But I found out that there was a slight drizzle as soon as I walked out the door. It didn't last long and I was left with pea soup type air to run through. I did get rained on one more time during the run but it was short lived too. The humidity stuck the whole time.
Another problem I have been having while running is GI issues. It doesn't matter when or what I do or don't eat, about 2 miles into the run I feel that rumble in my stomach. On a six mile tempo run it usually isn't a problem. Can't say I haven't had to stop a run before but usually I can suck it up and finish. A long run is a different story. This morning I didn't get that rumble and thought I was out of the woods. But then at about 7 miles it hit me HARD!!! I was running along the highway and there as a steady stream of traffic (yes at 4:30ish in the morning) so I couldn't see far enough off the shoulder to determine if there was a good stopping place. One more rumble and stopping was required. Lucky for me the traffic let up and I could make out a tree line. I stopped Garmin and rushed down the hill. GI issues resolved I continued on.
I turned around at 9.5 miles (in case Garmin made my return trip longer)and realized that I was running low on water. A problem I have had on every long run. I had on my fuel belt with 3 bottles and I had only 1 left. I had passed a few gas stations on the way out that were closed. I prayed that they would be open. The first one was on the scary side. I skipped it but was happy to see that it was open figuring that would mean the bigger, safer station would be open too. I got to the second station about 14 miles. I stopped Garmin again while I ran into the bathroom and refilled my water bottles (next time I need to remember to bring money). I chugged down one bottle and refilled it again before leaving. Oh I also peed since I was there and there was an actual toilet.
When I left the gas station was when it deceided to rain. But, like it said, it was short lived.
I finished the run with no more issues, other then just being plain SLOW. 20 miles at a 10:08 pace.
The first I have already talked about...humidity. When I went to bed last night it was raining so I knew I was in for a humid, if not wet, run this morning. When I got up at 3am, I was glad to not hear any rain. But I found out that there was a slight drizzle as soon as I walked out the door. It didn't last long and I was left with pea soup type air to run through. I did get rained on one more time during the run but it was short lived too. The humidity stuck the whole time.
Another problem I have been having while running is GI issues. It doesn't matter when or what I do or don't eat, about 2 miles into the run I feel that rumble in my stomach. On a six mile tempo run it usually isn't a problem. Can't say I haven't had to stop a run before but usually I can suck it up and finish. A long run is a different story. This morning I didn't get that rumble and thought I was out of the woods. But then at about 7 miles it hit me HARD!!! I was running along the highway and there as a steady stream of traffic (yes at 4:30ish in the morning) so I couldn't see far enough off the shoulder to determine if there was a good stopping place. One more rumble and stopping was required. Lucky for me the traffic let up and I could make out a tree line. I stopped Garmin and rushed down the hill. GI issues resolved I continued on.
I turned around at 9.5 miles (in case Garmin made my return trip longer)and realized that I was running low on water. A problem I have had on every long run. I had on my fuel belt with 3 bottles and I had only 1 left. I had passed a few gas stations on the way out that were closed. I prayed that they would be open. The first one was on the scary side. I skipped it but was happy to see that it was open figuring that would mean the bigger, safer station would be open too. I got to the second station about 14 miles. I stopped Garmin again while I ran into the bathroom and refilled my water bottles (next time I need to remember to bring money). I chugged down one bottle and refilled it again before leaving. Oh I also peed since I was there and there was an actual toilet.
When I left the gas station was when it deceided to rain. But, like it said, it was short lived.
I finished the run with no more issues, other then just being plain SLOW. 20 miles at a 10:08 pace.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Humidity
This humidity is killing me. It has been raining for days. I have somehow managed to squeeze my workouts in between storms, but man it is humid!!!
My pace is really suffering too. My speed work outs have been nowhere close to the required pace. Garmin Guy beat me on my tempo run. And the long runs...they have been ugly!! My 20 miler 2 weeks ago turned out to be a 14 mile run, 4 mile run/walk and a 2 mile shuffle. I managed to run all of my 18 miler last week but it was slow and I could NOT have gone a step further.
I am a summer girl, love the heat, but I am even reaching the point that I am ready for cooler temps. I just hope that with cooler temps will come less humidity and I gain some speed.
Monday, September 07, 2009
Star Triathlon Race Report
I love this race. It is in my hometown and Leslie does a great job.
This year, since I am not in iron training, I drove the less then 5 miles to the race. I got a great rack position and picked up my stuff.
I tried to take some pictures only to discover I had a dead battery.
The swim is in the indoor pool and it is VERY warm in there. But it was pretty cool outside. So when it was time for us to line up for the swim start they did it inside.
I used the time from swim class where we had done some 200 sprints to estimate my swim time. I put in 3:45 and was number 130.
My turn came to enter the water and my race started. I passed one person in the water. My swim coach was there and I was thinking about all the things she was going to tell me I did wrong.
200 yard swim 3:44
I pulled myself out of the pool and ran into T1. helmet, shoes, sunglasses, bike and outta there.
T1 0:49
My foot slipped trying to get on my bike so I had a guy pass me leaving T1. I quickly passed him right back. We made the turn through town and got out on the highway, then he passed me again. Grrrr...I did not want to play leap frog again this week. Turns out that wasn't a problem since I couldn't catch him again after that. I did, however, pass quite a few others. I made the turn around and headed back. My bike computer isn't working but I knew that I wasn't going fast enough. I tried to push harder but my legs just didn't have it in them.
I made the final turns in town and made it to the dismount line.
14 mile bike 42:22
I GENTLY put my bike on the rack, changed shoes, helmet for hat, grabbed my bid and left.
T2 0:38
As I started the run, Monica asks "How's the ankle?" I answered "It hurts." I just tried not to think about it or whatever it was that was in my other shoe. I focused on the person ahead of me and tried to catch them. Then the next and the next. At about one mile I could see a shadow coming up on me from behind. I picked up the pace a little but he still caught me. We ran together to the turn around and right back to where he caught me. Then he was gone. I returned to my game of catching the person in front of me. I ran over the bridge and through the greenway to the parking lot and the finish line.
3 mile run 23:45
total 1:11:15
I saw Mary Jane starting her run and cheered her on. She is a 62 year old cancer survivor who was doing her first triathlon. When she crossed the finish line it brought tears to my eyes. She is a spectacular lady who I admire greatly.
Results were posts and Roz told me I got 3rd overall female.
After collecting my medal, I went home to check on Ronnie. Hard to complain about a sore swollen ankle when he is looking like mummy boy and can't even use the right side of his body.
I did enjoy some recovery time by the pool.
This year, since I am not in iron training, I drove the less then 5 miles to the race. I got a great rack position and picked up my stuff.
I tried to take some pictures only to discover I had a dead battery.
The swim is in the indoor pool and it is VERY warm in there. But it was pretty cool outside. So when it was time for us to line up for the swim start they did it inside.
I used the time from swim class where we had done some 200 sprints to estimate my swim time. I put in 3:45 and was number 130.
My turn came to enter the water and my race started. I passed one person in the water. My swim coach was there and I was thinking about all the things she was going to tell me I did wrong.
200 yard swim 3:44
I pulled myself out of the pool and ran into T1. helmet, shoes, sunglasses, bike and outta there.
T1 0:49
My foot slipped trying to get on my bike so I had a guy pass me leaving T1. I quickly passed him right back. We made the turn through town and got out on the highway, then he passed me again. Grrrr...I did not want to play leap frog again this week. Turns out that wasn't a problem since I couldn't catch him again after that. I did, however, pass quite a few others. I made the turn around and headed back. My bike computer isn't working but I knew that I wasn't going fast enough. I tried to push harder but my legs just didn't have it in them.
I made the final turns in town and made it to the dismount line.
14 mile bike 42:22
I GENTLY put my bike on the rack, changed shoes, helmet for hat, grabbed my bid and left.
T2 0:38
As I started the run, Monica asks "How's the ankle?" I answered "It hurts." I just tried not to think about it or whatever it was that was in my other shoe. I focused on the person ahead of me and tried to catch them. Then the next and the next. At about one mile I could see a shadow coming up on me from behind. I picked up the pace a little but he still caught me. We ran together to the turn around and right back to where he caught me. Then he was gone. I returned to my game of catching the person in front of me. I ran over the bridge and through the greenway to the parking lot and the finish line.
3 mile run 23:45
total 1:11:15
I saw Mary Jane starting her run and cheered her on. She is a 62 year old cancer survivor who was doing her first triathlon. When she crossed the finish line it brought tears to my eyes. She is a spectacular lady who I admire greatly.
Results were posts and Roz told me I got 3rd overall female.
After collecting my medal, I went home to check on Ronnie. Hard to complain about a sore swollen ankle when he is looking like mummy boy and can't even use the right side of his body.
I did enjoy some recovery time by the pool.
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
Long Run #3
Once again I shifted my workouts around due to racing on this Saturday.
Sunday would have been a ride except my bike had no seat so I took a rest day.
Monday was speedwork. Did it bright and early and missed goal paces on all the intervals. Monday evening was swim class, 2500 yards. She took it easy on us.
Tuesday was another rest day.
Today was long run #3, 17 miles. I got up at 3am and out the door at 3:15. I ran a diffeent route on roads that I knew where in good shape. No falls this week. But I did run slower (9:57) then goal pace (9:32). My ankle is pretty sore. I took an ice bath after my run and have been putting ice on my ankle all day.
Good news...bike part came today. Now I need to figure out my correct seat height and take a test ride tomorrow.
Big news...(it is old news if you are a facebook friend)
I am IN!!!!!
Sunday would have been a ride except my bike had no seat so I took a rest day.
Monday was speedwork. Did it bright and early and missed goal paces on all the intervals. Monday evening was swim class, 2500 yards. She took it easy on us.
Tuesday was another rest day.
Today was long run #3, 17 miles. I got up at 3am and out the door at 3:15. I ran a diffeent route on roads that I knew where in good shape. No falls this week. But I did run slower (9:57) then goal pace (9:32). My ankle is pretty sore. I took an ice bath after my run and have been putting ice on my ankle all day.
Good news...bike part came today. Now I need to figure out my correct seat height and take a test ride tomorrow.
Big news...(it is old news if you are a facebook friend)
I am IN!!!!!
Sunday, August 30, 2009
McMinnville City Triathlon Race Report
This was only my second tri of the season and it had been a year since my last sprint distance. But I had signed up for this race in December when they ran the early discount.So I got to the race about 6:15 and got my packet, body marked, transition set up...
I had used my last years swim time as my estimated time for the swim start. Therefore I was 119.
I lined up and jumped in when it was my turn. I passed the guy in front of me pretty quickly and the girl in front of him within the first 100 yards. After that it was like I had the pool to myself.
350 yard swim 7:13
I ran into T1 and got my helmet and bike shoes on, grabbed my bike and ran to the mount line.
T1 1:07
The bike is a nice rolling ride and it was cloudy and cool. I was feeling good. I played leap frog with one guy the entire ride. At mile 10 he said "Your turn", at mile 12 I told him "we are almost out of race to keep this up". He passed me at mile 15 laughing.
15.25 mile bike 45:5 (20.0 average)
I ran into T2 determined to get out of there before leap frog guy. I threw my bike up into the rack and it just fell back down, without a seat. I didn't have time to see what damage had been done, I just leaned it up against the rack and ran out of there.
T2 1:02
I was fuming as I went out for the run. I was so worried about my bike I forgot all about leap frog guy and have no idea if I beat him out of transition or not. They had changed the run course this year and made it super hilly. I swear you were either going up a hill or down a hill the entire run. Not good for this girl who runs mostly flat. I never saw the mile 1 marker and just prayed I had missed it cause I was dying. Finally made it to mile 2 and told myself that I could run just one more mile. They had a short out and back and at the turn the girl says "you are more then halfway". What???? we have to be within a half mile of the finish. I made the final turn and ran down the hill to the finish.
3 mile run 23:41 (7:54 pace)
total 1:19:00
39 seconds better then last year.
I went and got my stuff out of transition and examined my bike to see what the damage was. Thankfully it was just the collar that holds the seat post that broke. I went and found Mark with Acme. He called the shop. They had the collar and are mailing it to me. So I hope to still be able to race on Saturday for the STAR.
Once I got my bike taken care of and everything put away, I went up toward the food tent.
I stopped to talk to a friend. As we were talking all of a sudden one side of his face went slack and he couldn't talk. I was afraid to leave him but had to get help. I ran to the medic tent and told them I had a friend who needed them. They told me they were with someone and couldn't come right now. I demanded that one of them come with me NOW. I guess I looked scared enough that one of them left their patient and came with me. My friend was taken to the hospital and last I heard they think he had a stroke. Made my bike problems seem pretty small after that.
I finally went to check the results and saw that I had gotten 1st place in my age group. So I hung around for the awards. I scored a pair of socks as a door prize and a cool chair as my age group prize.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Bound to Happen
Given that most of my runs are done in the dark on crappy country roads and add in my lack of grace and you know what happened...I fell.
I got up a 3:30 this morning for my long run. My plan says that the key runs can be done in any order as long as you allow one day between each run. So since I have the McMinnville tri this Saturay, I swapped my long run to today.
It was nice and cool this morning but VERY dark. I decided to stick to my normal 6 mile route to start. I know this route like the back of my hand. As a matter of fact, while running with Kim Friday I warned her of the very pothole I tripped over this morning. I wasn't even two miles into my 15 mile run when I hit the pavement. I skinned both hands. Luckly I had on a runing skirt so that provided some protection on my thigh. My ankle throbed for a few yards and I thought about throwing in the towel. But I had to get home anyway so why not run. The ankle quit hurting so I just kept running.
The rest of the run was thankfully uneventful.
So long run #2 is in the books. It was very slow and I don't even want to think about what this says about planned marathon pace. At least it is done and now I can focus on my second tri of the season. That's right this will only be my second tri all season. How unreal is that??????
Monday, August 24, 2009
Cross Training and Speed
I am once again using the FIRST training program for my up coming marathon. 3 key runs per week (speed, tempo, and long) and cross training 3 days.
So this weekend was cross training. We had another beautiful weekend and I took full advantage and went on 2 two hour rides. Ok so The Plan only calls for 30-45 minutes of cross training but it was too nice and I have been enjoying riding too much to limit my rides.
But I was concerned that the extra saddle time would leave my legs trashed for this morning speed work. Casey was running a fever all weekend and so had to stay home from school this morning. I waited til she woke up, took her temp, gave her Mortrin, and got her comfortable in my bed with her laptop before I headed out at 9am. It is a good thing it has been cooler here. I did the one mile warm up then started on the 4 x 800s. I was surprised and happy to hit within goal range on all 4. 3:38, 3:43, 3:37 and 3:42. A 10 minute cool down and I had my first sucessful run in a while.
So this weekend was cross training. We had another beautiful weekend and I took full advantage and went on 2 two hour rides. Ok so The Plan only calls for 30-45 minutes of cross training but it was too nice and I have been enjoying riding too much to limit my rides.
But I was concerned that the extra saddle time would leave my legs trashed for this morning speed work. Casey was running a fever all weekend and so had to stay home from school this morning. I waited til she woke up, took her temp, gave her Mortrin, and got her comfortable in my bed with her laptop before I headed out at 9am. It is a good thing it has been cooler here. I did the one mile warm up then started on the 4 x 800s. I was surprised and happy to hit within goal range on all 4. 3:38, 3:43, 3:37 and 3:42. A 10 minute cool down and I had my first sucessful run in a while.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Long Run #1
I don't have much to say about today's long run. I didn't except much and that is exactly what I got.
I got up at 4:15, ate a banana, and was out the door at 4:30. I ran 3 miles and then was joined by my friend Kim. We continued for another 7 miles, then Kim was done and I finished out my last 3.
My pace was no where close to a Boston Pace +30 seconds. But I am fine with that. Vegas is going to be a fun trip. This will be the first time Ronnie and I have been anywhere without the kids since they were born. It will be out 15th wedding anniversary and really close to my birthday. Plus, like I said, I have other fish to fry next year.
I got up at 4:15, ate a banana, and was out the door at 4:30. I ran 3 miles and then was joined by my friend Kim. We continued for another 7 miles, then Kim was done and I finished out my last 3.
My pace was no where close to a Boston Pace +30 seconds. But I am fine with that. Vegas is going to be a fun trip. This will be the first time Ronnie and I have been anywhere without the kids since they were born. It will be out 15th wedding anniversary and really close to my birthday. Plus, like I said, I have other fish to fry next year.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Marathon Training Gets Started
Marathon training started Monday and I am paying the price for a lazy summer. Sure I ran, but it was all slowly. I haven’t done speed work or tempo runs since the end of April.
So Monday morning, I got up at 4:30 with my Garmin all programmed for 3 x1600. I did the 10 minute warm up then started on the first 1600. I didn’t even bother looking at or programming my goal pace. There wasn’t a chance I was going to hit it. And I didn’t. I finished the 1600s and did the 10 minute cool down (jog by that point).
Then Monday evening I went to swim class only to find out it was more speed work. A T30. YUCK. My last T30 was at the end of March right before the New Orleans 70.3. Back then I wasn’t skipping swim class and I was pushing myself harder. At that T30 I swam 1650 yards. Monday I swam 1575. So no more skipping swim class.
Tuesday was cross training day. I rode my bike while Casey was at gymnastics. Nothing hard, nothing fast.
Wednesday was tempo run day. 2 easy, 2 at short tempo pace, and 2 easy. This time I looked at my goal pace and laughed. No way. I did the 2 easy and then picked it up. Problem was picking it up also kicked up the urge to potty. I did my best to make it home, potty, then finish out the run. I ended up with paces closer to my long tempo pace.
Wednesday evening was swim class. I really wanted to skip but kept my promise and went. Once there I was glad I did. We had a great work out and banked 3000 yards.
Today is rest day.
Tomorrow is the first long run. 13 miles at PMP (planning marathon pace) + 30 seconds. The problem there is I don’t know what my goal for Vegas is anymore. I had hoped to Boston Qualify so I could run Boston in 2010 but now I have different plans for 2010. So my Vegas goal is yet to be determined and tomorrow’s run will just be whatever it is.
So Monday morning, I got up at 4:30 with my Garmin all programmed for 3 x1600. I did the 10 minute warm up then started on the first 1600. I didn’t even bother looking at or programming my goal pace. There wasn’t a chance I was going to hit it. And I didn’t. I finished the 1600s and did the 10 minute cool down (jog by that point).
Then Monday evening I went to swim class only to find out it was more speed work. A T30. YUCK. My last T30 was at the end of March right before the New Orleans 70.3. Back then I wasn’t skipping swim class and I was pushing myself harder. At that T30 I swam 1650 yards. Monday I swam 1575. So no more skipping swim class.
Tuesday was cross training day. I rode my bike while Casey was at gymnastics. Nothing hard, nothing fast.
Wednesday was tempo run day. 2 easy, 2 at short tempo pace, and 2 easy. This time I looked at my goal pace and laughed. No way. I did the 2 easy and then picked it up. Problem was picking it up also kicked up the urge to potty. I did my best to make it home, potty, then finish out the run. I ended up with paces closer to my long tempo pace.
Wednesday evening was swim class. I really wanted to skip but kept my promise and went. Once there I was glad I did. We had a great work out and banked 3000 yards.
Today is rest day.
Tomorrow is the first long run. 13 miles at PMP (planning marathon pace) + 30 seconds. The problem there is I don’t know what my goal for Vegas is anymore. I had hoped to Boston Qualify so I could run Boston in 2010 but now I have different plans for 2010. So my Vegas goal is yet to be determined and tomorrow’s run will just be whatever it is.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Halt!
My friend gave me some Halt! a few weeks ago. It has quickly become my favorite product. I use to slow down every time a dog got a jump on me unsure of what the dog had in mind. I worried about getting knocked off my bike. But now...a dog gets anywhere close to me and he is getting a face full of Halt! and backing off. I encounter a LOT of dogs on my rides and have almost used up my Halt! I will be making a tript the bike shop to pick up some more really soon.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Pushing Myself
Last Monday the coach at the Masters swim class I attend, told me I need to sign up for some races and get my motivation back. She is right. I have just been going through the motions and not enjoying it.
Yesterday I decided to push myself harder on the ride I planned to do. It was a 22.3 mile loop of flat to slightly rolling. I lost my focus a few times and my speed dropped but I finished the ride with an average speed of 18.6 mph. I also got a little too much joy spraying the three dogs that gave chase with Halt!
I plan to ride again today (it was raining eariler so gotta see if it clears up). A little longer so shotting for >17 average.
I also remembered a Du that I signed up for in Memphis last year but didn't race. Going to see if they are having that again. And I am thinking about an Ironman for 2010.
Yesterday I decided to push myself harder on the ride I planned to do. It was a 22.3 mile loop of flat to slightly rolling. I lost my focus a few times and my speed dropped but I finished the ride with an average speed of 18.6 mph. I also got a little too much joy spraying the three dogs that gave chase with Halt!
I plan to ride again today (it was raining eariler so gotta see if it clears up). A little longer so shotting for >17 average.
I also remembered a Du that I signed up for in Memphis last year but didn't race. Going to see if they are having that again. And I am thinking about an Ironman for 2010.
Sunday, July 05, 2009
Returning Soon
I started this blog back in the fall/winter of 2005 when I was training for my first marathon. I wanted a record of my training. I wanted to be able to go back and see how I felt on my long runs, where I ran, and what I ate/drank. I wanted to be held accountable.
I ran that marathon in April 2006 and then decided to give a tri a try. Again I used this blog as a means to record my progress. I did my first tri July of 2006.
Along the way, I "met" a lot of great people here and been inspired to push myself harder then I ever thought possible.
I have continued to train for race after race and continued to blog about it. I have gone back and read prior years race reports the night before doing the same race again as a way to prepare myself.
But right now I am not really training for anything. I have a few sprint distance tris that I plan to do at the end of August/first of September, but I am not on a plan. I am just doing what I want, what I feel like. Therefore I have not been blogging.
All that will change August 17th when I start training for the Vegas marathon.
I ran that marathon in April 2006 and then decided to give a tri a try. Again I used this blog as a means to record my progress. I did my first tri July of 2006.
Along the way, I "met" a lot of great people here and been inspired to push myself harder then I ever thought possible.
I have continued to train for race after race and continued to blog about it. I have gone back and read prior years race reports the night before doing the same race again as a way to prepare myself.
But right now I am not really training for anything. I have a few sprint distance tris that I plan to do at the end of August/first of September, but I am not on a plan. I am just doing what I want, what I feel like. Therefore I have not been blogging.
All that will change August 17th when I start training for the Vegas marathon.
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
About a Month
It has been about a month since I started my break and it is getting old fast. It doesn't help that one of the funnest races of the season is coming up this weekend and I am not racing.
I have spent the month running slow and biking slow. The only reason I am not swimming slow is because the only swimming I am doing is at Masters and she won't let me!! I have now done 4 or 5 of the 12 P90X workouts. Just working them in as I feel like it.
I did get a solo ride in this morning at a decent pace. I got chased 4 times by dogs so that threw in some sprints (speed work??).
I don't know if I can wait until August 29th to race, might go check out the Team Magic schedule again.
I have spent the month running slow and biking slow. The only reason I am not swimming slow is because the only swimming I am doing is at Masters and she won't let me!! I have now done 4 or 5 of the 12 P90X workouts. Just working them in as I feel like it.
I did get a solo ride in this morning at a decent pace. I got chased 4 times by dogs so that threw in some sprints (speed work??).
I don't know if I can wait until August 29th to race, might go check out the Team Magic schedule again.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Summer
On December 19, 1992, I graduated with my BS in Civil Engineering and swore I would never go back to school. Little did I know at the time that once I had kids in school I would also be back in school. And at our school 3rd grade is the worst. I have done two years back to back of third grade and am so glad to be done!!!! Bring on summer!
On a training front (can I still call it training even on while on this break), I almost didn't get up this morning. I was sleeping so good and must have hit snooze without even knowing it. I finally drug my butt out of bed, went to the bathroom and thought about getting back in bed. I ran my options through my head and decided I better get it out of the way. So off to the Rec Center I went. I got in a great leg workout and made plans with Eric to ride in the morning. yeah!!
Then tonight, I did not want to go to swim class. It was beautiful out. I wanted to sit on my patio with a glass of wine and my new kindle. But I put on my suit and forced myself out the door. Once at class, I was glad to be there. We had an awesome workout. 2600 yards withlots of sprint kicks and sprint pulls. Ouch.
I got home and still got my glass of wine and about to curl up with my Kindle. It's all good.
On a training front (can I still call it training even on while on this break), I almost didn't get up this morning. I was sleeping so good and must have hit snooze without even knowing it. I finally drug my butt out of bed, went to the bathroom and thought about getting back in bed. I ran my options through my head and decided I better get it out of the way. So off to the Rec Center I went. I got in a great leg workout and made plans with Eric to ride in the morning. yeah!!
Then tonight, I did not want to go to swim class. It was beautiful out. I wanted to sit on my patio with a glass of wine and my new kindle. But I put on my suit and forced myself out the door. Once at class, I was glad to be there. We had an awesome workout. 2600 yards withlots of sprint kicks and sprint pulls. Ouch.
I got home and still got my glass of wine and about to curl up with my Kindle. It's all good.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Can't Facebook Everything
I just don't seem to have the time to blog. I know part of the problem is the ease of facebook. Slapping up a couple of sentences is so easy. I was able to shout out my excitement that The Middle Half happens to fall on a day that my training plan will call for a 13 miler. I could admit how bad I suck at push ups and pull ups P90X style. I was even able to fess up to my total slackerness when I skipped both my run and swim class on Monday. But facebook doesn't work for everything, some things just need more detail.
Sunday is just one of many examples.
Jill came down from the big city for an early morning ride in the country. I picked a 30 mile route that I hoped would give a good county experience, and it did not disappoint. We saw goats, almost ran into a buzzard eating road kill, got chased by LOTS of dogs and had a deer run across the road in front of us...just to name a few. It was unseasonably cold and we ended with a pretty strong head wind. I really enjoyed showing Jill around and having a social ride where we never even thought about mph. It reminded me how much I love to ride my bike. And now that daylight is coming early, I hope to start getting some early morning rides in. It just needs to warm back up again.
I am also enjoying working in some P90X workouts. I am not going to commit to the 90 days or all the workouts. So far I have just done the shoulders and arms DVD 3 times and the chest and back DVD once. I might try some of the others as I feel like it.
Tomorrow I hope to get up early and go to the Rec Center and lift legs again. Friday it kicked my butt and I was sore for a couple of days. Maybe I can finally get rid of this cottage cheese on my thighs/butt.
Sunday is just one of many examples.
Jill came down from the big city for an early morning ride in the country. I picked a 30 mile route that I hoped would give a good county experience, and it did not disappoint. We saw goats, almost ran into a buzzard eating road kill, got chased by LOTS of dogs and had a deer run across the road in front of us...just to name a few. It was unseasonably cold and we ended with a pretty strong head wind. I really enjoyed showing Jill around and having a social ride where we never even thought about mph. It reminded me how much I love to ride my bike. And now that daylight is coming early, I hope to start getting some early morning rides in. It just needs to warm back up again.
I am also enjoying working in some P90X workouts. I am not going to commit to the 90 days or all the workouts. So far I have just done the shoulders and arms DVD 3 times and the chest and back DVD once. I might try some of the others as I feel like it.
Tomorrow I hope to get up early and go to the Rec Center and lift legs again. Friday it kicked my butt and I was sore for a couple of days. Maybe I can finally get rid of this cottage cheese on my thighs/butt.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Offical
I made my break official this morning by canceling my room in Augusta. It was hard, but I really do believe necessary.
I am having a good week of training at "normal" people levels.
Sunday I did the P90X shoulders and arms.
Monday morning it was raining so I waited and ran that afternoon at 3:30. My Garmin wouldn't turn on or reset, I had to run naked. I ran for about 40 minutes. I tried to use Map My Run to figure out how far I ran but one of the roads was new and the program won't let me run over land. I went to swim class at 6:00 for 2550 yards.
Tuesday I slept in again then did chest and back while watching Biggest Loser.
Wednesday I got up at 4, ran 6 miles and went to toning class. Then another 2500 yards at swim class that evening.
Today I slept in and did P90X shoulders and arms again tonight. Upped the weight a little and my arms are TOAST.
If it's not raining in the morning I will run 6 before work. Rain = sleeping in
I am having a good week of training at "normal" people levels.
Sunday I did the P90X shoulders and arms.
Monday morning it was raining so I waited and ran that afternoon at 3:30. My Garmin wouldn't turn on or reset, I had to run naked. I ran for about 40 minutes. I tried to use Map My Run to figure out how far I ran but one of the roads was new and the program won't let me run over land. I went to swim class at 6:00 for 2550 yards.
Tuesday I slept in again then did chest and back while watching Biggest Loser.
Wednesday I got up at 4, ran 6 miles and went to toning class. Then another 2500 yards at swim class that evening.
Today I slept in and did P90X shoulders and arms again tonight. Upped the weight a little and my arms are TOAST.
If it's not raining in the morning I will run 6 before work. Rain = sleeping in
Friday, May 08, 2009
The Break
At about mile 25 of Sunday's race I made a promise to my body. I will take a break.
I have been pushing and pushing with very little recovery time.
So I haven taken everything off my race calender except a sprint distance tri in McMinnville in August and the Vegas marathon in December. Both of those races are already paid for. My goal is to BQ in Vegas.
Until then, I am taking a step back. There will be no training program and there will be No racing.
I hope I can do this, I don't operate well without a schedule. I get in a rut easily.
It is also going to be very hard for me to not race. I love racing. Tri season is just starting and I won't be out there doing what I love to do. Pouring it all out on the course, pushing my body as hard as it will let me, the feeling of accomplishment crossing that finish line, the pride of a new PR...
But I am going to keep the promise I made to my body Sunday and give it a break.
And I have done good this week. Of course part of that was simply because I couldn't walk so was forced to rest.
Monday and Wednesday I did swim class.
Thursday I "ran" 3 miles. It was very slow but made my legs feel 100% better.
Today I went to the Rec Center and did a 12 minute warm up on the arc climber followed by chest and back weights and some abs.
I don't know what I will do this weekend. Part of it depends on the weather, which has been quite gloomy lately, and part depends on how I feel.
I have been pushing and pushing with very little recovery time.
So I haven taken everything off my race calender except a sprint distance tri in McMinnville in August and the Vegas marathon in December. Both of those races are already paid for. My goal is to BQ in Vegas.
Until then, I am taking a step back. There will be no training program and there will be No racing.
I hope I can do this, I don't operate well without a schedule. I get in a rut easily.
It is also going to be very hard for me to not race. I love racing. Tri season is just starting and I won't be out there doing what I love to do. Pouring it all out on the course, pushing my body as hard as it will let me, the feeling of accomplishment crossing that finish line, the pride of a new PR...
But I am going to keep the promise I made to my body Sunday and give it a break.
And I have done good this week. Of course part of that was simply because I couldn't walk so was forced to rest.
Monday and Wednesday I did swim class.
Thursday I "ran" 3 miles. It was very slow but made my legs feel 100% better.
Today I went to the Rec Center and did a 12 minute warm up on the arc climber followed by chest and back weights and some abs.
I don't know what I will do this weekend. Part of it depends on the weather, which has been quite gloomy lately, and part depends on how I feel.
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
Flying Pig Marathon
It was pouring rain here Saturday morning so I ended up leaving for Cincinnati a little earlier then I originally planned in case the rain delayed me. The drive was easy and I arrived at about 1:00. I checked into my hotel and walked over to the expo. David had already picked my packet up for me but I wanted to check out the expo.
The expo was good. They had posters set up with descriptions and pictures of each mile of the marathon.
After the expo I meet up with David and Gayle. We drove the course to get a real idea of the hills, went shopping, and out for pasta.
I got up Sunday morning at 4:15. I ate breakfast and got dressed. Then I met David and Jeff in the lobby. We walked over to the start in the rain. Jeff forgot his timing chip and decided to try to rush back to the hotel and get it while David and I found a little dry spot under a tiny tree to sit in.
At about 6:15, David and I found the 3:50 group. It was a large group and I couldn't get close enough to say anything to E-Speed.
The gun sounded and the race was on. The first mile was slow due to the crowd. David and I were in the back of the 3:50 group but kept the sign in sight. My Garmin hasn't been holding a charge so I went with my watch and depended on David to keep us in check. The 3:50 sign kept getting father and father ahead and I was getting nervous but David told me his Garmin had us at an overall pace of 8:47, exactly where we needed to be.
Since we had driven the course, we knew what to expect. It didn't make that LONG hill at 6 any easier bt at least we knew we would be climbing for a mile.
The downhills didn't seem signifiate but my quads were feeling them. We were still holding pace.
I took a gu at 5 and 10. At 15 I couldn't get it down. I was sick of sweet and wanted some pretzels. My stomach was hurting. I needed to potty but didn't want to take the time. I tried some Twizzlers someone was handing out but couldn't get those down either. All I could think about was pretzels.
Just past 18 David said "Go get your BQ. I'll see ya at the finish". Then he slowed down. We had picked up another girl just before David dropped off, so I ran with her.
We got to 20 and a BQ was very questionable at that point but a PR was still very much in reach. My stomach was feeling worse.
At 21 I walked through the water stop and checked the port-a-potties. They were all full and I didn't want to wait in line. Because I walked, I lost my running partner and was on my own.
Mile 22 I HAD to stop at the port-a-potty. My stomach felt a lot better after the stop but my legs were worse.
I ran most of 22 and 23 but by 24 it hurt so much to run I had to walk. I wanted so bad to run but it was just so painful. My quads were killing me. My calfs felt great thanks to my super sexy compression socks.
I finally saw the finish swine and managed some semblance of running to get across it.
4:05:05, not a BQ, not a PR, not even sub 4. total bust!!!
I collected my metal, blanket, water bottles and finally some chips and Cheese Its. I wondered out of the recovery area and found a curb to sit on. I had to ask a stranger to help me down to the ground where I sat and waited for David.
I found David and Gayle at the same time and we walked back to the hotel.
I showered, packed up, then made the 5 hour drive home.
The expo was good. They had posters set up with descriptions and pictures of each mile of the marathon.
After the expo I meet up with David and Gayle. We drove the course to get a real idea of the hills, went shopping, and out for pasta.
I got up Sunday morning at 4:15. I ate breakfast and got dressed. Then I met David and Jeff in the lobby. We walked over to the start in the rain. Jeff forgot his timing chip and decided to try to rush back to the hotel and get it while David and I found a little dry spot under a tiny tree to sit in.
At about 6:15, David and I found the 3:50 group. It was a large group and I couldn't get close enough to say anything to E-Speed.
The gun sounded and the race was on. The first mile was slow due to the crowd. David and I were in the back of the 3:50 group but kept the sign in sight. My Garmin hasn't been holding a charge so I went with my watch and depended on David to keep us in check. The 3:50 sign kept getting father and father ahead and I was getting nervous but David told me his Garmin had us at an overall pace of 8:47, exactly where we needed to be.
Since we had driven the course, we knew what to expect. It didn't make that LONG hill at 6 any easier bt at least we knew we would be climbing for a mile.
The downhills didn't seem signifiate but my quads were feeling them. We were still holding pace.
I took a gu at 5 and 10. At 15 I couldn't get it down. I was sick of sweet and wanted some pretzels. My stomach was hurting. I needed to potty but didn't want to take the time. I tried some Twizzlers someone was handing out but couldn't get those down either. All I could think about was pretzels.
Just past 18 David said "Go get your BQ. I'll see ya at the finish". Then he slowed down. We had picked up another girl just before David dropped off, so I ran with her.
We got to 20 and a BQ was very questionable at that point but a PR was still very much in reach. My stomach was feeling worse.
At 21 I walked through the water stop and checked the port-a-potties. They were all full and I didn't want to wait in line. Because I walked, I lost my running partner and was on my own.
Mile 22 I HAD to stop at the port-a-potty. My stomach felt a lot better after the stop but my legs were worse.
I ran most of 22 and 23 but by 24 it hurt so much to run I had to walk. I wanted so bad to run but it was just so painful. My quads were killing me. My calfs felt great thanks to my super sexy compression socks.
I finally saw the finish swine and managed some semblance of running to get across it.
4:05:05, not a BQ, not a PR, not even sub 4. total bust!!!
I collected my metal, blanket, water bottles and finally some chips and Cheese Its. I wondered out of the recovery area and found a curb to sit on. I had to ask a stranger to help me down to the ground where I sat and waited for David.
I found David and Gayle at the same time and we walked back to the hotel.
I showered, packed up, then made the 5 hour drive home.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Pop T-30
I have never been a fan of the Pop Quiz. Then in my freshman year of college I had a Calculus 1 teacher that loved them, so began to HATE pop quizzes. But I have been out of school for many years so haven't given them much thought that is until last night...
We started swim class with a warm up 500 of swim, kick pull. After we finished Shawn, the coach, announces we will be doing a T-30. NO!!!! I was reminded of that feeling so many years ago when that Calc 1 teacher would say "OK, everyone close your books and lets see who understood last nights assignment". A sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach telling me this was not going to be pretty. I counted first and swam second. I already voiced all my excuses...I had a temporary crown and a filling done that morning so my mouth was still hurting, I am in taper and racing Sunday I don't need to be doing a max effort workout, I hadn't been able to eat much due to the dental work...
But then it was my turn and I just had to suck it up and swim. I told myself 1500 was my goal, 3 sets of 20. So I just counted and swam. My cap started slipping off and I finally had to just reach up and pull the stupid thing off. So I had hair in my face for the second half of the swim. I got my 1500 but wasn't told to stop so just kept swimming. I ended up with 1650 yards. I skipped the last T-30 so I have nothing to compare it to. Glad to have one in the book now but truth be told had she warned us before hand, I would have skipped again.
This morning was my final run, 3 miles at PMP. I beat Garmin guy and ran the final mile way too fast, but I am blaming Ronnie for that. He was out running to and I saw him when I had about half mile left. He turned around and ran with me. We talked and I guess sped up too much. So much for getting a good feeling for what marathon pace is. But then when I logged on here I saw a post from E-Speed and she is pacing at the pig this weekend. And guess what group she has...3:50.
Now, I just wish I had some good news to report about the weather forecast
We started swim class with a warm up 500 of swim, kick pull. After we finished Shawn, the coach, announces we will be doing a T-30. NO!!!! I was reminded of that feeling so many years ago when that Calc 1 teacher would say "OK, everyone close your books and lets see who understood last nights assignment". A sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach telling me this was not going to be pretty. I counted first and swam second. I already voiced all my excuses...I had a temporary crown and a filling done that morning so my mouth was still hurting, I am in taper and racing Sunday I don't need to be doing a max effort workout, I hadn't been able to eat much due to the dental work...
But then it was my turn and I just had to suck it up and swim. I told myself 1500 was my goal, 3 sets of 20. So I just counted and swam. My cap started slipping off and I finally had to just reach up and pull the stupid thing off. So I had hair in my face for the second half of the swim. I got my 1500 but wasn't told to stop so just kept swimming. I ended up with 1650 yards. I skipped the last T-30 so I have nothing to compare it to. Glad to have one in the book now but truth be told had she warned us before hand, I would have skipped again.
This morning was my final run, 3 miles at PMP. I beat Garmin guy and ran the final mile way too fast, but I am blaming Ronnie for that. He was out running to and I saw him when I had about half mile left. He turned around and ran with me. We talked and I guess sped up too much. So much for getting a good feeling for what marathon pace is. But then when I logged on here I saw a post from E-Speed and she is pacing at the pig this weekend. And guess what group she has...3:50.
Now, I just wish I had some good news to report about the weather forecast
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