September Update

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

It's been a nice summer. The parents and in-laws visited over a month ago to see the city and cheer me on in the marathon. Dad took pictures of everything. From the mundane:

To the once-in-a-lifetime:

I loved having the family here. Seeing them cheering at different points in the marathon was particularly exciting. I did finish, and it felt great! I wanted to cry and laught at the same time as I reached the finish line and the medal was placed around my neck. It is a great feeling that I want to have again. And it was extra special to have my two of my favorite guys (pictured above) there to congratulate me.

Teaching the summer camp was strenuous, but good. The kids really loved it and I enjoyed having an assistant teacher to help out. I won't be returning to teach this fall, which was a difficult but necessary decision. I'm working at the store again part-time while I try to figure out what's next for me.

What I would really like to do is land an internship at a magazine, newspaper, or book publisher and learn about that field. I would love to start a career in the editorial/publishing world, but I have so much to learn. I'm hoping to volunteer at a few places to get some experience as well.

Other than figuring out my career, the rest of my life is running smoothly. I'm thinking about auditioning for a show, though I've got to prepare some songs first.

And I might enter the September Iron Cupcake Challenge: Squash. Should be interesting!

Anticipation

Friday, July 24, 2009

So, Sunday's the big day. I'm waiting for Chip to get back from the airport where he picked up my folks and my in-laws. I'm happy to have family in town for the big day, though it also adds to the nerves.

Am I ready?

I think so. It's hard to know, it being my first marathon. The good news is that most of the route I'm familiar with; I've utilized much of it for my regular and long runs. I went to the expo to pick up my shirt and bib today. It was crazy. Truth be told, I don't think I'll get into the whole running lifestyle. I think it will just continue as a way for me to stay fit, on top of the new healthier diet Chip and I have just started.

I'm excited and nervous, but mostly excited.

26.2, here I come.

I have a blog?

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Contrary to possible belief spawned by lack of posting, I have indeed been continuing in my training. It's been spotty at times, but I've succeeded where it counts. My longest run has been 18 miles, slow and steady. But it was my 17.5 miler the week before that gave me a confidence I had yet to experience.

Here's the route, in a nutshell:
Out my front door. Down Polk Street. To the water, by Fort Mason. Pass the Marina and Crissy Field. To Golden Gate Bridge. Across the bridge and back (taking in the gorgeous view when across). Back past the Marina and Fort Mason. Down Bay Street to Embarcadero. Down to the ballpark and back up Embarcadero to the Ferry Building. Cutting over to Market. Down the Sutter. Down Sutter to my front door.

There you have it. Lots of running. The first time I truly felt good the whole way through the run (despite painful knees down the hill on Bay St.). I even had some people call out to me. One older guy, in North Beach, in a thick Italian accent: "You're really fast there, aren't you?" A couple of skateboarders on Embarcadero: "Can we run with you?"

Those are the times I delight in running. I have time, without the ipod, to listen to the sounds around me. And I'm distracted by the smells and sights. But it's an intriguing distraction.

Next week I start teaching full time at my program's summer camp. I'll be leaving the apartment early in the morning (around 6am) and won't get back till about 12 hours later, so it'll be interesting to see how I fit running/training into my schedule.

Also, July holds lots of exciting things (anniversary, visits from friends and family). I have a lot to look forward to, but I know I have to focus on making it through the 26.2 on July 26.

Run Like a Girl

Thursday, May 28, 2009

Today was another long run. I set out with a 16-mile plan and took a copy of the map along with me, but got a little off track--found a mistake in the map, got lost on a golf course--I ended up running I think about 15 miles. Toward the end I was feeling extremely weak--I made the mistake of running through lunchtime--so I had to switch to a walk/run plan. All in all, it was a good run.

I wish I had brought my phone or camera, because there are lots of interesting things to see through Golden Gate Park, down the Great Highway, and around Lake Merced--some of which include a row of rainbow colored houses along the Great Highway, a house painted a la Mondrian, a giant painted cartoon dog head on a pole above the street, a dude with a remote-controlled boat on Stow Lake... the list goes on.

Track Workout... Interrupted

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

I headed on over to Kezar Stadium--in Golden Gate Park, where the 49ers used to practice--for a track workout--my first real one--but found a high school track meet in session. I stood behind the bleachers for a bit, watching the different heats. (Those kids were fast.) Eventually, seeing that the event wasn't ending anytime soon, I decided to run around the top of the track and run up and down the bleachers several times.

I found my legs to be very sore--I suppose from last Thursday's run and the hike on Saturday. I decided that, since my long run was to be the next day, I shouldn't push myself too hard, and I soon headed back home.

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

Last weekend Chip and I went camping for Will's birthday. Shiying had set up a great trip and we attempted to surprise Will with it. Needless to say, this threw a wrench in my workout regime. I did manage to get in a run/walk up the mountain and then Saturday during the day we went on a hike to the top. So, I definitely got some exercise. But I was still feeling the aching from Thursday's long run.

Run Long

Thursday, May 21, 2009

Today I felt like a runner.

I start off walking the few blocks from my apartment to Polk street, getting myself excited and anxious for the run ahead. I'm surprised to find that--once I start running up Polk--I have to stop at relatively few red lights. The one thing I like about running in busier parts of the city is dodging people like little obstacles.

I make it to Aquatic Park and run around it to ascend the hill at Fort Mason--killer steep hill. As I make it to the top, I stop to stretch and catch my breath. I've read that you don't need to stretch before a run, and that you should actually warm up your muscles before stretching. I commence running and am met by very strong winds. I'm used to the wind, but this is a little much. I'm comforted by thinking of how much more of a workout I'm getting with this strong wind blowing against me.

This part of the run--past the Marina and on to the beach--is nice and flat. It gives me a chance to hit my stride. I make it to the Warming Hut and stop to blow my nose (ew) and duck into the bathroom away from the wind.

I leave and ascend the stairs to the Golden Gate Bridge, really pumped about running across it for the first time. I start across, dodging meandering tourists and cyclists and noting the temperature change. Once I get across, I take a few minutes to jog around the lookout staring back at my city across the Bay. Beautiful.

I start running away from the bridge, but soon realize that I don't know where I should run. What I had mapped out on mapmyrun.com isn't helpful, so I soon turn around instead of risking running on a small shoulder with cars passing by at 45mph.

My trek back across the bridge is once again cold, and even more windy. I'm relieved to make it across and carefully descend the stairs (taking care with my knee). From there I run to Fort Point--of course--to touch Hopper's Hands before heading back.

The run back proves easier: I've gotten into a groove and the wind is at my back. I only later find out that the sun was also at my back... and burning my skin. (Note to self: use sunscreen.) I do slow down to a fast walk a couple of times, but I never stop. And this is what I'm proud of.

All in all, because of the confusion on the other side of the bridge, I'd say I finished somewhere between 13 and 14 miles, which is a great accomplishment for me. Next week, I'll be at it again.

I'm a bad blogger

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

So I haven't been keeping up too well with the blog. The good news is that my training is going pretty well. I need to push myself really hard these next could of months if I hope to finish the race on July 26th. I'll be running or working out 6 days a week. I've accomplished the following thus far this week:

Sunday: Bay to Breakers race (12k - about 7.5 miles)
Monday: 60 minute Pilates class
Tuesday: Maintenance morning run (about 3 miles)
Wednesday: 20 minutes speed work on the treadmill / 20 minutes cross training on the bike

Tomorrow is supposed to be my long run day. I'm aiming for 15 miles, and I'm pretty scared about that. I've never run 15 miles. I'm planning on making it across the Golden Gate Bridge, though I'm sure it'll be a challenge with all the tourists walking on the foot path.

Anyway, I'll let you know how it goes!

Runner?

Thursday, April 30, 2009

You know, some days I really feel like a runner. I'm going strong and steady, feeling good...

Then there are those days I don't feel like a runner at all. My legs feel sluggish and weak, I can't catch my breath...

Yesterday was the latter.

It had been a week since I'd worked out. (Last week I had strep throat and it took me a while to get back to 100%.) So I decided to ease myself into it by taking my normal neighborhood running route. It was rough, indeed, and I felt really frustrated afterward. I know that right now I need to get back into the groove and build my speed and endurance so that I'll be ready for the marathon, so today I went to the gym to run on the treadmill (a few hill repeats and sprint sets), do some ab work, and lift some free weights. I'll ease myself into a regular routine so that my body will be ready to advance.

When I'm running on the treadmill I miss the breeze the most, but when I'm running on the road, I hate the wind the most.

I blog when I want.

Monday, April 13, 2009

So, today I ran 8 miles--a much needed long run--from my apartment to the golden gate bridge and back part of the way. Though the running was slow (the wind was predictably forcefull on the way out), I felt good.

You may have noticed that I didn't begin this blog with the typical "Distance: 8mi." mumbo-jumbo. It's because I used to blog just when I got the "ganas" (when I felt like it and when I wanted to organize my thoughts in a not-too-personal way--hand-written journals are for that, silly), and I want to get back to that.

I'm working on getting back on the music bandwagon. That means 2 things: 1) I'm working on getting up-to-date with music in general, and 2) I'm working on polishing up my own stuff so I can record it with the cool software my brother gave me.

Also, I'm working on getting published. Well, I'm in the very beginning stages. I'm checking out open access digital academic journals that have open calls for papers. If in the future I want to get into a PhD program, I want to have a couple of published credits on my CV, particularly since I have several things I wrote during my Masters work that just need some tweaking to be published.

So, there you have it. A quick update. Oh, and I haven't been inactice athletically since my last post. I went to a yoga class, ran, and did some more yoga here at home. I just don't think I'll always be blogging right after I finish a workout all the time.

"I can't breathe!"

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Distance: 7.5mi. (run (for the most part); outside)

Chip and I made a workout schedule (yes, we're THOSE people). Wednesday is my day to run to his work to meet him and run back home together. Like I said, I've been having respiratory issues, but I'm used to them. Today, after running a bit with Chip, I was frustrated because I was struggling to run and I think I wasn't paying attention to my posture or form and my throat started closing up and I couldn't breathe. It was kind of scary. That's never happened to me before. I had to make myself calm down and focus before I could start up again. I eventually finished the run, but not withough hyperventilating once again. I think I'm going to do some research to see if there's something I can do to alleviate this.

Anyhoo, tomorrow is a gym day, so hopefully I can find the energy to do some strength training, stretching, and speed intervals.

Monday, March 30, 2009

Distance: 5.8mi. (run; outside)

So, maybe it was a bad plan to just start running without first mapping my run (www.mapmyrun.com). I had hoped to run longer, but when I got back home, found it was under 6 miles. Boo. I ran from the library through Hayes Valley, past the Painted Ladies (on the intro to "Full House"), through part of Golden Gate Park and back aways, before hopping on a bus for home. It was getting cold and I thought I had run more. Meh, what are you going to do? It was a pretty nice run, though.

Saturday, March 28, 2009

Distance: 5mi. (outside, run)

Chip and I went for a run together down to the water. It was a beautiful day for a run, though I'm still feeling stiffness in my calves. But I know that's just the natural way of things when you're using your muscles more than usual. We're going to start running together on a weekly basis on Wednesdays, when I'll meet him at work and run back with him. Hopefully we can both challenge each other.

Thursday, March 26, 2009

Distance: approx. 7.5mi. (run; outside)

It was a lovely day, but the wind was strong. I guess that was a good thing because the wind gave me some challenging resistance. I think I'm taking the day off today. I'll work on some applications for the fall before going to teach this afternoon.

I know I have some form of exercise-induced asthma. Chip thought it was weird when I told him I nose runs a lot when I'm running (no pun intended), so much so that snot-rockets occur often (sorry for the grossness). Is it weird? I have constant respiratory problems when I'm running, but I just assumed it was typical. Ah, well. I'll deal with it.

Monday, March 23, 2009

Distance: approx. 7mi. (run; outside)

Today I ran to Chip's work to meet him there for his run home. It was a little strange sitting in the lobby of Old Navy Corporate all sweaty from having run a few miles. We had a nice run back, although my calves were still in pain from my long run last week. I had another weekend without running. Boo, Bethy. If I want to be trained up for the marathon, I've got to start getting out the door on the weekends.

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Distance: 9mi. (run; outside)

Argh, my legs are killing me. But I'm glad I made it out for a long run. My calves were burning for the first few miles, and it was not fun, but I'll give them a rest and let them recover. It was a beautiful day outside, so I knew I wanted to make it out for a run, I just wish I'd gotten out sooner. That's what I need to focus on, leaving sooner for my runs.

Soudtrack: This American Life (I do a pretty good Ira Glass impression, FYI.)

Monday, March 16, 2009

Distance: 4mi. (run; outdoors)

I'm trying to speed up my flat and downhill run time to make me stronger for the uphills. Does that make sense? Anyway, this typical run of my facilitates that nicely.

I really should've run this weekend, but I found the motivation lacking. Eh. It happens, right? But today I cleaned the whole apartment and made a delicous dinner and thought that a run would round the day off nicely.

Wind in my Face

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Distance: 6mi. (run; outside)

I did the good old Crissy Field to Fort Point run today. It had been a while, and my legs made sure I knew it. But I'm proud to say I ran the whole way. The wind was blowing against me half of the time, so I know I got a good workout.

Then I came home, made a salmon dinner, and baked a cake. I feel good.

Breaking in the Adrenalines

Monday, March 9, 2009

Distance: 4 mi. (run; outside)

Today was rough. I know I've been sporadic--at best--with my running/working out. We had the church retreat, and then Chip and I were both sick with something like the flu, and then I had my trip to Anaheim. Needless to say, when other things wedge themselves into my routine, I have a hard time readjusting my running routine. It's no excuse, but it's all I got. So, today was rough.

Today was also my last day at See Jane Run. It's sad to leave the girls, but it'll make my weekly schedule much easier, and maybe I can get a better handle on my training, too.

It looks like my folks and in-laws might be coming for the marathon weekend, so I'm trying to convince Chip to run the half marathon. He's training for a half, but doesn't know which one yet. I think it'd be fun to run something together.

Breaking the Routine

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

So, over the past couple of weeks, I've only managed to run about 2 times. Lame, I know. Until this week I was experiencing lack of motivation, and I just discovered the reason: boredom. I've been running basically the same route outside or on the treadmill and I haven't really been mixing it up much with speed intervals, cross training, or strength training. So, I'ma try to stop the monotony.

Yesterday: Distance: 3.25 mi. (run/walk; treadmill - some hill repeats and hill sprints).

Today: I did a stretch, strength and speed interval session that I got from this month's Women's Running. It was pretty challenging and I think I'll work it into my weekly routine for a while.

I'd write more, but I'm sick and tired and should probably go to bed. Here's the getting back on the bandwagon.

P.S. I got new Brooks Adrenalines today that I'll start running in soon, and I'm pretty excited.

Youth Run4Fun

Monday, February 9, 2009

So the San Francisco Marathon has a program where you can join a team and raise money for different causes in the months leading up to the event. I'm choosing to raise money for Youth Run4Fun (http://youthrun4fun.org/) because I know that kids now, more than ever, need the encouragement to go outside and run around. Having healthy kids in the community is a good thing.

So, yes, this is a bit of a plug. If you just want to know about the organization, please go to their website and check them out. If you want to donate to them, you can do so at my fundraising page:

https://secure2.merchantcart.net/runsfm//MyWebPage.cfm?pID=375107

I'll be back with run updates soon. I've taken a bit of a respite after the half marathon last week, but I need to get back on board tomorrow.

I'm a runner?

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Distance: 4.4 mi. (run; outdoors)

I think it's official: I'm a runner. It's a weird thing to say because I know I run, but I've never classified myself as a runner. But I think after Sunday's half marathon, I can truly say it.

I took a break Monday and yesterday to let my legs and right foot recover. (It feels much better now, thank you.) Today felt pretty good. I even went to the Presidio stairs to run. There were tons of personal trainers with their trainees hanging around the steps.

A surprise run.

Monday, February 2, 2009

Distance: 13.1 mi. - Yes, that's a half marathon. (run; outdoors)

So here's what happened. I wasn't planning on running the Kaiser Permanente Half Marathon, but a couple friends of mine were running the 5k, so I thought I'd meet them in the park to run just for fun. I hadn't signed up, but I was just going to tag along. I get there and realize it's going to be impossible to find them amidst the swarm of runners waiting at the starting line. But I had met this girl walking from the bus who hadn't signed up for the half, but was meeting some friends to run it anyway. She can't find her friends either, so I suggest that we just run together, and I concede to running the half.

Needless to say, I only stay with her for about 3 miles--I'm a slow runner, and she used to run cross country. I need to run 8 miles for training, anyway, so I figure I'll get it out of the way. About half way through the course, I figure I should just keep running to see if I can make it. And I do. I only stopped to walk for one minute somewhere after mile 11 before telling myself to run again. I finished in about 2 hours, 17 minutes. It was slow, sure, but I'm so proud of myself for finishing. Besides, I was one of the few not downing Gu or some other form of energy supplement.

The downside is now I have a searing pain on the outside of my right foot and my right knee is bothering me. The weird thing is that my left leg feels great. Maybe this means I need to pay more attention to my form. Anyway, I'm glad that today is a rest day, because my body needs it.

Me after the race, looking happy, and feeling good.

I felt good yesterday and celebrated by getting some Blue Bottle coffee with Chip and eating lots of tamales at Kim's superbowl party. Go Steelers!

Getting my rest on...

Thursday, January 29, 2009

Distance: 4 mi. (run; outdoors)

Because this week's a rest week and I haven't been getting uber early to run, it was more difficult to drag myself out of my "thursday afternoon is my saturday" lounging mode in to runner mode. But I did it just in time to prepare for Community Group tonight. It was my usual neighborhood run and it was pretty good, once I got warmed up. The weather was practically perfect.

There's this one hill (among many) on my typical run that stretches pretty much all the way through Japantown and then some. It's near the end of my run and so I hate it with a passion. It's slow and steady and tricks you because you think you've come to the top, but haven't. But I've noticed that even when I've finished with the hill, I mentally complain about the descent because the pounding hurts my knees and ankles (trying to work more on my form so that this won't be as much of a problem). I try to focus on other things instead of mental complaints, but it's hard.

Saturday I have another 4-miler then Sunday I'm supposed to do 8. Guess I'd better start preparing myself.

Today's soundtrack: Apples in Stereo. I used to listen to them all the time at the gym at SU, and now they remind me of my days in Syracuse. Ah, good times.

Monday, January 26, 2009

Distance: 4 mi. (run; outdoors)

This week is a "rest" week. that does not mean no running. That means I just slow it down and reduce mileage to allow my muscles to heal. And healing they are. This run was nice and pretty relaxing... as relaxing as my normal route of climbing nob hill first thing can be. Still, it was good.

I want to get some capri running tights from work. I have the full-length, thermal tights, which I love, and several pairs of shorts, but I'm missing that mid-length tight. I didn't know I'd love running in tights so much, but I do. Less swishing and bunching, I suppose. As I get into the higher mileage, I also want to get a portable water source. We have several options at the store, so I just need to decide. Lastly, if I start running trails semi-regularly, I need to get some trail running shoes. I'm thinking either the Asics Gel 2140 Trial, Asics Trail Attack, or the Brooks Cascadia.

I stocked up last week at the grocery store. I got lots of running-friendly foods, like plenty of carbs (noodles, potatoes, rice) and proteins (beans, tuna). I'm slowly learning how to fuel myself up properly.

You can't beat the views...

Thursday, January 22, 2009

Distance: 6.3 mi. (walk/run; outdoors)

Mapmyrun.com says it was something like 6.3 miles, but I'm not entirely convinced that the website has all the trails I went on. The running was rough again on my legs. I guess I just have to break them in some more. I'm reminded of how my legs felt after walking days on end on my pilgrimage.

Today's route, however, was something to behold. I took the 38 bus all the way to the coast and then hopped on the trail in Sutro Heights Park. It took me to Eagle's Point, where there's a spectacular view of the Golden Gate and the ocean, the Presidio, where I'm wouldn't mind owning a house with said view out back and a mini cooper out front, and Baker Beach, where some people were taking wedding photos. Needless to say, I found myself stopping quite a bit to take in the sights and snap pictures with my phone. They just don't do the sights justice:

This is from Eagle's Point. And that's my foot. My mode of transportation.

This is Baker Beach, where dogs frolicked and photographers took wedding photos (reminded me of my lovely former roomie, Mabyn).

And here's the sun setting over the beautiful ocean view. Don't you wish your runs were this scenic?

No pain, no gain?

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Distance: 4 mi. (run/walk; outdoors)

Monday was a rest day. Yesterday wasn't scheduled as one, but turned out being one when I woke up feeling sick (just sinus/cold/sore throat stuff). My body told me I should sleep instead of getting up at 6am to run, so I listened. I knew today would be hard after two rest days, but I didn't anticipate how hard.

My calves felt (and still kind of do feel) like tons of tiny hands were squeezing every muscle fiber. Starting the run was hard because I was wheezing from my cold-like symptoms and it was uphill. (My usual "from my front door run". Did I mention I live at the bottom of Nob Hill and therefore have to run uphill for several blocks before it evens out and descends again?) Continuing the run was harder because of aforementioned pain in calves.

I've come to some conclusions. 1) I'm not getting proper nutrition. I've been reading a bit today and will pick up some things at the grocery store tomorrow to make sure I'm well stocked on energy sustaining and recovery nutrients. 2) I'm not stretching properly after my long runs. Sunday I ran the longest I ever have: 8 mi. (I figured out it probably was right at 8). Afterward I stretched only a tiny bit before getting on the bus to head home and then leaving home for a friend's for dinner. Big mistake. And one I hope to not make again. My calves are still rather tight, but I'll take a long, slow run tomorrow to give them a break. Maybe flat, too.

The moral of the story is that I need to keep educating myself when it comes to training and nutrients. I was reading a book today and it said the most important question when training for a marathon is "How should I train?" The second most important is "What should I eat?" Lesson learned, I hope. Oh, also I'm popping the multi-vitamins, Glucosamine (for joint flexibility), and Omega 3 (fish oil for inflammation and recovery; the bad thing is it makes your burps smell and tast like fish... gross, I know). Anything I'm forgetting?

Sunday, January 18, 2009

Distance: somewhere between 7 and 8 mi. I think maybe 7.6ish (run; outdoors)

Did the Fort Maston to Golden Gate Bridge route again today, only this time I ascended the steep stairs to the bridge and ran a little on the bridge. (I figure I'll build up to going all the way across and back.)

I was back in my Inspires and it was a glorious run. I have noticed, however, that I'm a slow runner. I don't mind this, as I'm just starting my marathon training. Besides, I can work on speed (intervals) in my shorter distances for now.

Soundtrack: Rilo Kiley and Silversun Pickups.

Another beautiful day.

Oh, and no shin splints or painful feet to speak of. Yay, Mizunos!

The Inspires Have It

Saturday, January 17, 2009

Distance: 3 mi. (run; treadmill)

Tonight at the gym was just blah. I ran with shin splints and aching calves (probably due to the long distance thursday and rest day yesterday) and pained feet (I think due to my shoes). So, I've been alternating using my Mizuno Wave Inspires and Saucony Hurricanes on runs. The Hurricanes are a bit big, I know, but I figured they can still function for shorter distances. I think I was wrong. After running for a longer time on Thursday in my Mizunos, I realized that they make me feel as if they're not even there. They're just lighter and I feel like they let my feet do more of the work and not get too "lazy". Maybe that's all in my head, but either way I'm sticking with the Inspires from now on.

I did some free weights before leaving the gym in a blah mood. Just not a great workout. Not bad, but not great. Maybe it's because all of my other runs haven't been after a full day of work. Hm...

Hopper's Hands

Thursday, January 15, 2009

Distance: 6.8 mi. (run/walk... though mostly run!; outdoors)

Today's run went from Fort Mason along the coast to right underneath the Golden Gate Bridge. A beautiful run in beautiful weather. On the chain link fence at Fort Point hangs a placard: "Hopper's Hands". Ken Hopper, Golden Gate Bridge ironworker, is also a suicide prevention volunteer (unfortunately, a valued commodity at the GGB). He started noticing runners and walkers approaching the fence and touching it before turning around and had two placards (one for human hands, one much lower for dog paws) put on the fence. It's pretty cool to see everyone touching the hands before turning around to run back.

There was so much to see on the run (families playing on the beach, owners throwing balls with their dogs in the field, tourists taking pictures of everything) I found myself happily distracted. By that, and my constant soundtrack of Pacha Massive.

Today's run was a little longer than my training schedule called for (4 mi.), but since Thursdays are like my Saturdays, I wanted to take what time I had for a nice long run.

Great mid-week run

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Distance: 5 mi. (all run!; treadmill)

So, on the treadmill, I used to always start out my run at 10 minute miles. I could typically do 3 miles at that continuous speed. Today I had 5 miles to do, so I decided to go at a slower pace. The results? I didn't stop or slow down once! I hovered between 11 and 12 minute miles. Granted, it was on a treadmill without any hills, but it sure did boost my confidence for my outdoor run tomorrow. I even started chanting a mantra that coincided with my footfalls and inhaling/exhaling patterns.

Needless to say, the run felt great. I had a huge smile on my face when I hit the 5 mile mark. I felt as if I could've kept going forever! I didn't though; 1) because increasing one's distance so rapidly can lead to greater risk of injury and 2) I had to head home to get ready for work.

I started the morning out with 2 pieces of sourdough toast with margarine and my mother-in-law's apple butter (it's the best, seriously), a banana, and half a mug of white tea. That seemed to be just right to fuel me up.

The soundtrack for today's run was exclusively Mates of State. The weird thing is, many of their songs coincided so well with my pace, that I found myself adjusting ever so slightly on the treadmill just so I could run with the beat.

Particular songs: "Help Help", "You Are Free" and "Fraud in the 80's".

Till tomorrow...

Wake-up call

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Distance: 2 mi. (run w/ speed intervals; treadmill), 2 mi. (run/walk; treadmill)

The alarm was set for 5:45am. I used to get up nearly everyday at this time when I was in Syracuse. But I can tell now it'll be an adjustment. One thing I need to figure out is what I should eat in the morning (because I have to eat something before running) to give me enough fuel but not make me feel like I want to puke.

It was a pretty good run, and I've got another early tomorrow morning!

On the road again...

Sunday, January 11, 2009

Distance: 3.87 mi. (run/walk; road), 2 mi. (run; treadmill)

Today marked day 1 of Bethy's marathon training. How did it feel? Predictably rough. I didn't expect to feel spectacular. Don't get me wrong, I didn't collapse or anything, but my muscles were understandably stiff. I moved to the gym for the final 2 miles because 1) it got dark and 2) that's were my 3.87 ended.

I gotta say, I think running during sunset in San Francisco is just jolly. I stopped in Alta Plaza Park after the long climb up Jackson and watched the pink and orange streaked sky over the Marina and the seemingly calm Bay waters.

I scarfed some Gu before the run. (For those of you who don't know, Gu is energy... um... goo that athletes and runners use to give them the nutritional fuel for whatever exercise it is that they're doing. Scientific enough for ya?) It was my first time trying it (we sell it at the store), and I gotta say, I'm not a fan. I think I'll try some Clif Shot Bloks or Luna Moons next.

As for unusual aches and pains, I only noticed a slice aching in my left hip, which I've noticed for the past few days. My theory is that I danced too much during Clab's bachelorette party and wedding. I take that back. No such thing as dancing too much.

Anyway, I'll sleep soundly tonight knowing I got in a pretty good run and after the pasta I'm about to make for dinner.

28 Weeks till 26.2

Saturday, January 10, 2009

I signed up for the San Francisco Marathon on July 26th. I've been talking for several months about wanting to eventually do a marathon and it slowly and steadily dawned on me that now is the best time to do one. I'm in a great city for training (for any race...hello, hills!), I'm surrounded by seasoned runners and athletes, I'm learning new things everyday due to See Jane Run, and I'm probably in the best shape of my life (thus far). I knew that, unless I gave myself a goal to work toward, I'd never actually build the necessary mileage.

So I'm scared and I'm excited and I'm confident and I'm anxious.

And I think I'll use this blog to log my training: my successes and failures, my aches and pains, my emotional highs and lows, and just my general thoughts. In my limited time as a runner, I've noticed that running paves the way for very interested thought rabbit trails. Maybe I'll share some with you, reader.

In the meantime, stay tuned for my running shenanigans retold.

Training starts tomorrow.

(P.S. Above is a picture of me warming up (literally) for the only race I've run thus far: the Chilly Chili 5k in Chittenango, NY, last February.)