Showing posts with label training. Show all posts
Showing posts with label training. Show all posts

Friday, August 15, 2014

Island Line Trail Run & Ride

Summer is the best time to take a road trip and explore new places. Even though I have lived in New England for six years, there is still plenty for me to see. Recently mrC took me on a weekend getaway to Burlington, Vermont complete with running and biking.

The weather was predicted to be perfect for packing up a few of my summer running favorites, along with my running gear essentials.

Oiselle Lesko bra, Athleta Record Time Run shorts, Nike Racerback,
Mizuno Wave Paradox, Simple Hydration Waterbottle, and Nike GPS Sportwatch

Burlington has a really nice bike trail system that runs north and south of the city that is also perfect for running. I chose Airport Park as our starting point because it offers free parking, rest rooms, and easy access to the trailhead that heads north along the historic causeway. We got a later start than we had hoped, so the 8 mile run was warm. It took about 1.5 miles to actually reach the causeway which was disappointing, but not for long. The views of Lake Champlain were amazing. We followed the Island Line Trail until we reached the Bike Ferry and turned around.


Wanting to be ready for anything, I threw together a mix of items for the bike ride along the waterfront.

Old Navy Tank, J.Crew shorts, VS bikini, Athleta No Rush Hoodie,
FlipBelt, Saucony Bullet Vegans

This time we hopped on the bike trail at North Beach Park and rode south into downtown Burlington. Once again we had gorgeous weather and spectacular views for an amazing 10 mile ride. Along the way we watched an Army rescue training session and even sat in a Blackhawk helicopter. I learned the story behind Champy, the Vermont equivalent of the Loch Ness Monster and watched a little of the US Women's Dragon Boat time trials.




Where did your last road trip take you? 




Wednesday, July 23, 2014

Workout Wednesday: Adult Running Camps

I read an article in the August issue of Women's Running Magazine about adult running camps.


I am by no means a camper. I do not like bugs or sleeping outside.  I am a runner who likes to travel, go on adventures, and try new things. These camps are for people like me. More like retreats with a bunch of running activities.

The article showcases a few camps and I was excited to see one located in Vermont. So I looked up the Lake Champlain Women's Running Camp  and here's what I found out:

  • This camp is for women only
  • Located at the 700 acre Basin Harbor Club in Vergennes, VT
  • Open to all training levels
  • Expert staff
  • Daily workshops
  • Activities offered: yoga, swimming, kayaking, hiking
  • 5 day overnight package $975-1600 (depends on room size)
  • 3 day participant (no overnight) $525
  • Packages are all-inclusive: lodging, meals, workshops, shirt, and notebook
  • Not sure of the 2014 dates??

A quick Twitter chat on the subject and another runner notified me of the Craftsbury Running Camps also in Vermont. Here are the details for this one:

  • Open to women and men
  • Located at the 400 acre Craftsbury Outdoor Center in Craftsbury Common, VT
  • Camps for varying interests/levels
  • Professional coaches
  • Varying lengths including a weekend option
  • Optional field trips around Northeast Vermont
  • Elective activities include: yoga, swim, bike rides, seminars
  • 6/7 day overnight packages $1030-$1309
  • 3 day weekend package $383
  • Packages are all-inclusive: room, meals, coaching, facilities use, trips.
  • Dates ranging from June-September

At first look these camps seem expensive, but when you take into account what's included (board, meals, coached running, extra activities), it's approximately the same price as your average vacation.

I'm putting the weekend Foliage & Running Camp at Craftsbury on my bucket-list.

Would you ever attend a running camp?









Wednesday, April 16, 2014

5 Tips for Running with your Dog {Giveaway}

My dog loves to run. It makes him happy. His favorite race is the My Dogs are Barking 5K.


Exercising with your dog is a lot like training for your next big race. You need to have a plan, the right tools, and be prepared to practice.

Just like there are apps for runners to use to plan and track activity, Purina has created Purina Pro Plan P5 App, a user friendly app that allows you to track your dog's activity, work on training goals, and see achievements.


Through the Purina Pro Plan P5 App you can also access training videos on a wide variety of topics including obedience, agility, running, and strength training.



Fueling is just as important for your dog's exercise as it is to your race training. Purina has launched Purina Pro Plan PRiME and ReFUEL bars that can be used pre and post-exercise to manage your dog's energy stores.


Booney really enjoys earning his treat.


Here are some tips for running with your dog from Dr. Brian Zanghi, a research nutritionist and one of the canine physiologists behind the development of the Purina Pro Plan P5 App:
  1. Consult Your Vet – Before you begin running with your dog, check with your vet to make sure they are in the proper physical condition and receive the proper nutrition for this type and level of activity.
  2. Start small – Begin your activity program with short walks, jogs and training sessions at fifteen minute intervals.  It’s important your dog understands basic commands to make activity time more enjoyable (the heel command is crucial). Dog owners can also download the P5 app for free to set exercise and nutrition goals, as well as access step-by-step instruction, helpful video demonstrations and insight from top Pro Plan trainers.
  3. Pick the right conditions – When possible, always choose to run on grass or a soft path, rather than pavement. This is not only easier on the pads of your dog’s feet, but it’s also less pressure on their joints and bones. If you have to run on pavement, make sure to check the pads on your dog’s feet both before AND after your run, for cuts or abrasions.
  4. Ensure your dog receives proper nutrition for exercise – Unlike humans, a dog’s main energy source comes from fat – not carbs. A diet higher in fat and protein will increase an active dog’s metabolism and his endurance during exercise. The Purina Pro Plan Sport line delivers fine-tuned nutrition to promote strength and endurance for dogs of all activity levels. And for highly active dogs, the Purina Pro Plan PRiME and ReFUEL nutritional supplement bars can be fed before (PRiME) and after (ReFUEL) exercise to deliver concentrated targeted nutrients that help optimize performance.
  5. Provide proper hydration – It is important to let your dog her have access to water at all times, especially during long walks or locations away from home.

Purina has generously offered to give two winners the chance to try the Purina Pro Plan PRiME and ReFUEL bars. Each winner will receive 4 PRiME and 4 ReFUEL bars. Enter for your chance to fuel your dog below.


a Rafflecopter giveaway



Disclaimer: I was sent samples of Purina Pro Plan PRiME and ReFUEL bars for the purpose of review.

Thursday, July 11, 2013

It's Time to Start Training

I have been blissfully thinking that I had a bunch of unencumbered time before training for my next half marathon would begin. Then it became clear that the ZOOMA Cape Cod Half Marathon is actually just 12 weeks away. So with this weekend's long run, I will end my training vacation, and start increasing the long run mileage.



ZOOMA Training Care Package
It's not too late to join me for the half marathon or the 10K and if you register before July 14, you will receive a Training Care Package in the mail. Here's what's included:
  • Samples of Muscle Milk & Cytomax
  • 3-month pass to YogaVibes.com
  • Samples of Bogy Glide & Performer Pain Reliever
  • GU
  • Training plan & playlists from National Blogger Panel


When you register, you automatically receive the ZOOMA Swag Bag along with an unforgettable weekend of a pre-race Mocktail Hour, After-Party Expo, and a Recovery Yoga Session. You will also receive a special room rate at the Sea Crest Beach Hotel, the official race hotel, if you choose to stay there. You can also get 10% off your registration by using my Ambassador code CCAMB3.


I ran this race last year and had such a great time that I knew it was one I would do again and again. You can read my recap here. So as the ZOOMA Half Marathon Challenge Athlete, Lara, says "It's time to put down the martini!"



And just to keep things interesting for those of you returning to Cape Cod for your second go at the 10K or half marathon, ZOOMA has issued a Personal Best Challenge: run a new distance best or PR your event and you will receive a special gift at the After Party Expo! All you have to do is indicate your eligibility when you register.

So will I be seeing you in September?



Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Put Some ZOOM in Your Training


The start of summer can have different effects on our fitness routines. Some people are motivated and charge full steam ahead into their training and workouts. Others may be feeling a little lazy and fighting the urge to relax on the beach instead of get up and move. Then there is always so much more to do in the warm fabulous days of summer.


Whether you are ready to jump in or need a little motivation, the Zooma Cape Cod Half Marathon/10K is a perfect way to do it.
"ZOOMA is a national women's race series that takes running and celebrating to the extreme. ZOOMA half marathon and 10k or 5K races are followed by a fabulous post-race party with massages, wine, music and more!" 
When you sign up for Zooma Cape Cod you get access to Train Like a Mother training plans as well as opportunities to attend training runs sponsored by City Sports - Back Bay location in Boston.


This race is the perfect opportunity to get together with all your girlfriends. You can train together, run a race together, and then party on the Cape together!  


As a Zooma Ambassador I can offer you a discount on the Cape Cod registration. All you have to do is enter the promo code CCAMB8 to get $10 the half marathon or $5 off the 10K. The price increases on June 23 so hurry to get the best deal!



You won't regret registering for this event. Zooma offers tremendous support through the blog, their Facebook page, and Twitter.


How do you stay motivated during the summer?


Wednesday, June 13, 2012

#TrainingTruths: Workouts and Yogurt


June 13 - If I'm going to become a better runner, I have to take time to think about what I'm actually doing. Obviously I'm running, but what else is going on that might help or hinder my training?

In an effort to be more conscientious about my fitness choices I'm starting a weekly post in which I will share...well, my training truths. Mainly I'll be focusing on my workouts and food, but really any topic is fair game. The point is to be honest and maybe learn something.

Workouts:

#TrainingTruth: Sometimes I run when I shouldn't because I'm so caught up in meeting the weekly mileage.

Two weeks ago I officially started following another Nike+ training program as I get ready for half marathon #5. Even though I have been running regularly since last August, I still like the structure and guidance of a plan.

This plan suggests three runs each week. Week 1 of the program I missed a day because of a work event so I didn't reach my weekly mileage. Week 2 was better and I even ran an extra day trying to catch up a little. This is a good way to get an injury.


#TrainingTruth: I am consistent with strength training in small portions.

I've been working on strengthening my core. I love these weekly workouts and wrote about them here. When I faithfully followed these 30 day challenges in the past, my running felt better, easier. Last month I tried to do more than one challenge and that was a big fail. Lesson learned. Don't over do it!


Food

#TrainingTruth: I need yogurt to counter the side effects of the junk food I like to eat.

I have always been a picky eater with stomach issues on top of the fact that I devour all things salty and by definition "junk." I tried Activia because Jamie Lee Curtis said that in two weeks I would feel awesome.  I don't know how it works; I can only attest that it does...for me. Running is much easier when you don't have to worry about stomach issues. My favorite flavor is Raspberry...


Want to know what others are eating? Go here


What have you learned about yourself this week?


#TrainingTruths is not just about me. We all like to see what everyone else is doing and use that information to asses ourselves. It's not judgement. It's a way to share and learn and make changes when necessary. If you feel like sharing your #TrainingTruths, tag a Twitter post with the hashtag, comment on Facebook, or leave a link to your post in the comments below. 




Saturday, April 28, 2012

Spring Break Training

 
April 28 - Today I completed my last longish run before the Cox Rhode Races Half Marathon next weekend in Providence, Rhode Island. I've been on Spring Break this week, and even though I didn't find myself flying off across the pond to Paris or Austria, or even taking a more local vacay to sunny Florida, I did have a good week of running.


After more time spent dwelling on my calf tightness issue, a trip to the doctor, and a wasted session with the PT, I am still in the dark as to what is going on. Despite the discomfort and sometimes tenderness, I managed to get in three solid runs. Tuesday I ran 6 miles with hubs. He rode his bike for 1.5, ran for 3, then back on the bike for 1.5. Thursday I ran 6 again with hubs on the bike body-guarding me the whole way. Today I ran 8 miles. I ran the first 4 by myself, but on my way past the house I grabbed the dog for the final 4 miles. He's still a pretty awesome running partner for a nine year old pup!





Now my focus turns to the week ahead and the plans for the weekend. My running this week will be easier as I continue to taper in preparation for 13.1 on Sunday. I'm looking forward to getting to Providence on Saturday afternoon, exploring the Health & Wellness Expo at the Rhode Island Convention Center, (hopefully) watching the start of the 5K at Roger Williams Park, and meeting the other Rhode Scholars for dinner. After a night at the host hotel, the Renaissance Providence Downtown, I'll be trying to connect with Samantha at the starting line for my 4th half marathon. After the race, I'll be going out to eat with my cheering section - hubs and my PC stepdaughter before depositing her back on campus.







What have you been Spring training for lately?

How did you spend your Spring Break?



Sunday, February 26, 2012

Saskatchewan Screamer: Dislike

 
February 26 - Yesterday was my scheduled long run for the week. My running partner/personal trainer is unavailable (she's living it up at the Princess Half Marathon in Disney - more on that later), so I recruited hubs and the loyal hound to run with me.

Who could resist that?

We loaded up the car and headed toward Manchester to take advantage of the paved paths and nearby park. Hubs and the dog were going to run about 3 miles with me and then walk around while I finished up another 4 mile loop. We stopped for gas on the way and that is when I noticed how windy it was. I knew we had a wind advisory, but then hubs introduced me to the Saskatchewan Screamer...a fast moving low pressure system sweeping southeast out of Canada bringing winds with speeds over 45 mph. After checking TWC App on my phone, we decided to reschedule the run for Sunday when the winds would lessen.

That's his pouting pose!


So this morning we headed to church...

Outfit: H & M sweater, GAP pants, Express necklace.

...and then we realized we had double booked our run to coincide with basketball. Oops. So instead of the awesome downtown run I had mapped out for us, I hit the basement and climbed on the treadmill for 7 miles. 

Source

Watching Home Alone while running on the treadmill is not my ideal workout, but it is better than not working out at all. Although, I can honestly say that the look on "Kevin's" face is exactly how I was feeling earlier today. Despite my frustrations, I had a good run and continue to maintain my momentum for my next half marathon at the Cox Rhode Races in Providence, Rhode Island in May.


Saturday, February 4, 2012

Twelve Fantabulous Miles & Winners

 
February 4 - This morning I had a fantabulous run. On the schedule was a twelve mile run for my half marathon training. My first of the year is in two weeks at the Hampton Half and my second is in May at the Cox Rhode Races. I met my training partner at the Executive Health Club near MHT at 8AM. She had the route since it was one she has run when training for marathons. Here's what it looked like afterwards:


Everything worked today. The route was mainly flat with just a couple of small, easy inclines. At about 30 degrees the weather was just right and even managed to puff out a few flurries for us. All of the sidewalks and paths were clear and open. Most importantly my legs were feeling good and loose. I love when my runs are nice and easy like this.

Do you ever wonder what causes a good run to happen? The weather? Your meals? The right frame of mind? Wouldn't it be great to know so that you could replicate it right before that BIG RACE?

I don't know what my combination was exactly, but I love weather like today in the 30s, my dinner last night was a pepperoni calzone with some wine (ok a lot of wine), and my mom surprised me by coming to visit from Cincinnati! Fantabulous!

Momma!

Congratulations to the winners of the Simple Hydration Water Bottle Giveaway:

Tara Martin

Chuck Abbey

Please email me your mailing address information so I can get your bottles to you!




Tuesday, January 24, 2012

My 30 Day Challenge


January 24 - A few weeks ago, I was reading a post by Kristy and learned about a challenge that would help me improve my running.


This seemed easy enough. So I vowed to do it. 

Then I saw a great video by Patrick Goudeau, a Nike Elite Fitness Trainer, that promised to boost metabolism and keep me in my skinny jeans. Another pledge.


Around the same time Fitness online sent me an email with a promise for 
Sensational Legs in Only 3 Moves. One more oath.


I decided to combine all three of these short and simple exercises into my own 30 Day Challenge. Each exercise takes only a few minutes to do and can add maximum benefits to my running through form, strength, and toning. 

And because I want legs like these:


Creating this personal challenge appeals to me because I'm the type of person who needs variety. My runs are never the same. Different distance. Different route. Different days

I also need direction. Focus. A goal

My 30DC gives me a perfect combination of everything I need. At the end of thirty days, I can create a whole new challenge. Beautiful.


Have you ever joined a 30 day challenge or made your own?




Saturday, January 21, 2012

Winter Warrior-ing


January 21 - It has been another fun week of winter running here in New England and half marathon training continues. It snowed a little Tuesday morning but that didn't stop hubs and I from getting out for another snowy run. We don't believe in shorts cuts around here. He ran with me for 1.5 before turning around to become photographer and leaving me to do the remaining 4.5. ON MY OWN. I hate running by myself and this run was a brutal reminder of how spoiled I have been for, oh, the last 10 months. No precipitation on Thursday's run, just bitterly cold wind gusts. Turns out I run pretty good when the sidewalks are clear.

Tuesday photos by hubs
Today my training partner and I met up at Runner's Alley, a local running store, to run with the Winter Warriors group. The store itself is a perfect little gem nestled downtown. We are always greeted by friendly and knowledgeable sales people and they have an excellent selection of running shoes, clothing, and gear.

Source
I'd been hearing about the WW Runs but never attended mainly because we don't live that convenient to the store. Even so, I was interested in finding out for myself what the group runs were like. Here's a blurb from their newsletter:

It's Not Too Late to Be a Warrior!
Winter Warriors
You keep hearing about Winter Warrior runs, and since there are a lot of chilly months ahead of us, how about another friendly reminder on what WW is all about?
*Group Runs (all paces/levels): Thursdays at 6:00pm and Saturday mornings at 8:00am
*Throughout the winter, each store will host try-on nightsfrom different brands, plus raffles and other giveaways!
*Every time you come to a run, you get a point.
*Every time you bring a canned good, another point!
*25 or more points at the end of the season means you score some free gear with the Warrior branding. Suh-weet!
*Have we mentioned it's a blast? Yeah, it is...cuz that's how fun we are.... 

I arrived at the store 5 minutes before 8 and found about 15 other runners already inside getting ready mostly in small groups with little conversation. After figuring out where to sign in, someone announced that the run would be about 4 miles because of the snow. I have to admit that the irony of that statement made me smile a little inside.

So, we ran with the group for 4 miles, took a short break back at the store, then went on for another 6. Even though the group was a little tamer than I expected, today's run was a blast...from old man winter! I can now say that I have experienced the following: snow flakes in the eyes, snow covered face, icicles in my eyebrows and lashes, and possibly even some frozen snot (lovely). I also learned that if you buy a pair of snow cleats, they probably work better if you wear them.

Due North Traction Aids
Today, I also completed the Twitter Road Race 5K. I loved being able to print my own personalized bib! Not the easiest day to run a race, but I did the best I could in the snow!

Twitter Road Race 5K: 30:33

What kind of WARRIOR are you?

Did you run the Twitter Road Race? How did you do?

Monday, January 16, 2012

No Shortcuts


January 16 - I saw this the other day on Pinterest:

                                               Source: flawlessfitnessbook.com via Amy on Pinterest

It fit perfectly with my training run on Saturday. My running partner and I had made plans to run 8 miles on the local trail, one of our favorite routes. We had a mini-snow storm on Thursday followed by some freezing rain on Friday, but Saturday looked good. Cold temps, but no bad weather forecasted.

Before heading out, I gathered the necessary gear for my run.


This is what we saw when we got to the trail:


No problem, right? Wrong. The freezing rain had left a layer of crust on top of the snow. When we ran, we crunched our way through the four inches or so left over from Thursday. We did this for about 1.5 miles. It was like running while doing knee-ups at the same time, so we ditched the trail. After quickly discussing our options we made our way out to the main road and started an alternate route hoping we could make our 8 mile goal.

We ended up combining one of our regular routes around the lake with a loop through the village added at the end. Although we missed out on our trail run, we did get some amazing views of the frozen lake.


Lesson of the day: Anything worth having is worth fighting for. We did not give up on our run. We did not quit because it was hard. We are training for a half marathon. There are no shortcuts. 

What obstacles have you had to overcome during your training?

Monday, January 9, 2012

To Keep Running


Almost to the finish line!
January 9 - Last year my major running milestone was running my very first half marathon. This year (cross your fingers for continued healthy running) I will attempt to run THREE half marathons while keeping up with my goal for 2012: TO KEEP RUNNING


After taking some time off from running to let my shin heal once I completed the half marathon in August, I basically had to start over.  It is amazing what a couple of weeks without running can do to your body! I had no idea. Since  then I have been running non-stop. Through the fall and winter I ran a bunch of 5Ks and a couple of 10Ks.

To keep me motivated (and prevent the whole starting-over-again thing), I am attempting to run a race every month. This requires planning. Here is what I have scheduled: (highlighted = races registered/finished):

January 1 - First Run 10K - Lowell, MA - 58:09 PR
February 19 - Half at the Hamptons - Hampton, NH
March 11 - St. Paddy's 5 Miler - Portsmouth, NH
April 21 - Stonyfield Earth Day 5K - Londonderry, NH
May 6 - Cox Rhode Races Half Marathon - Providence, RI
June ? - Kickoff to Summer 5K - New Boston, NH
July 3 - Manchester 5K - Manchester, NH
August 19 - Rock-n-Roll Half Marathon - Providence, RI
September 22 - Zooma Cape Cod 10K - Falmouth, MA
October ? - My Dogs Are Barking 5K - Bedford, NH
November 11 - Newport Pell Bridge Run - Newport, RI
December 1 - Santa Shuffle - Manchester, NH

For me to complete the above schedule I have to focus on my training and stay healthy.  In "How to Run Injury-Free" on Active.com, Jeff Galloway offers great advice to runners on how avoid overuse injuries and enjoy years of running. The main points Galloway makes include:

  1. Train fewer days during the week
  2. Slow your pace on long runs 
  3. Take walk breaks 
  4. Massage instead of stretch
  5. Prepare for speed training
  6. Stop if you experience pain
Also, on his blog Galloway stresses the importance of resting after long runs to allow muscles to recover, rebuild, and reduce the chance of injury. Rest days are great for doing some light cross training activities. I have found some good workouts on the Nike Training Club app. 

One thing I know that will help me achieve my goal to keep running is to let go of the idea that a "real runner" doesn't need to stop and walk. If I want to stay injury-free and enjoy all of the races I signed up for, I have to listen to my body. If I need to take a break in the middle of an 8 mile run, it's OK! I'm still running 8 miles, right?  

What do you do to KEEP RUNNING?


Sunday, July 24, 2011

Long Runs: done

When I started running a few years ago, I always thought it would be amazing to lace up my shoes and head out for a really long run.  Images of runners cruising by as if on auto-pilot left me envious.  They appeared peaceful, free from the constraints of daily life, relaxed.  I viewed pictures of people running in the most amazing settings begrudgingly.  I wanted to be able to do that.

This year I set out to make it happen.  Eleven weeks ago I set the goal of completing a half marathon, and began an official training program.  It has taken commitment, motivation, and knowledge to get to where I am today.  Each week I have experienced something remarkable: running with family and friends, new routes in new places, and longer and longer distances.

12 miles - 1:59:32
Yesterday, I completed my longest run so far, and the longest run of my training before the half marathon.  The route was the usual trail that took us by two gas stations, so I wasn't worried about water or bathroom options.  Still, I was nervous, yet excited.  While getting ready for the run, I was recalling when I called a long run 6 miles, and here I was about to attempt 12.

Two hours of running later, I was worn out but ecstatic!  Despite the threat of some rain in the beginning, high humidity, and some tightening calf muscles, I was able to finish my longest run ever.  My husband tells me I have the running bug, and I think he is right.          

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

The Longest Mile

That's right. Seven miles. Done.

My husband and I met my friend from work for a Saturday morning trail run.  The weather was cool and overcast, but close to perfect for running.  Heading into the run I was excited because I was about to complete a personal record.  My previous recent longest run was six miles and I had felt pretty good completing that one.

We had a set pace of ten minute miles, but for whatever reason we either ran too fast or too slow.  Maybe it was because we spent the majority of the run chatting and not really focusing on running.  I have to admit though, it felt really good to be able to run and hold a conversation at the same time.

When we reached five miles, my mental challenge began.  My body is just not acclimated to the longer distances yet, and begins to anticipate that the end is near, or should be.  I was still feeling pretty good, so I knew I just had to concentrate on not giving up.  Training my muscles to run for longer periods of time is, ironically, more about what I'm thinking than the activity itself.  I reached down inside me for the strength to keep my legs moving.  

At mile six, in the home stretch, we faced a small incline.  On a short run, this incline is barely noticeable.  When your legs are getting heavy and your muscles are screaming to stop, the incline is torture. I found myself staring at the ground to avoid seeing how much further we had to go.  I refused to look ahead knowing I would only notice the rise of the road.  Impatient, I did peek only to be slapped with the realization that we still had about half a mile to go.  I wanted to speed up to make it end sooner, but my legs couldn't do it.  It was warmer now, and I was tired and thirsty.  I kept thinking, "are we there yet?" and spoke up, "I'm struggling."  Fortunately, my friend, a marathoner, had the needed motivation for the both of us and offered words of encouragement all the way to the end.

Most days I either run alone, or if my husband joins me, finish alone as he usually runs shorter distances.  I am used to talking myself through the mental challenge.  This time, I needed the support to get through the last mile, the longest mile. Mile seven. Done.





 

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

The Road to 211

Today I met my goal of running 211 miles in 2011.

In 2009 I ran 188 miles. Last year, a measly 59. So when I saw the challenge of 211 miles in 2011, I knew it was just what I needed to jumpstart my running...again.

My track record with running has been a lot like the roads around here: up and down, up and down.  I lace up the shoes, put in the time, add on the miles and then...ouch! shin splint!  Discouragement sets in behind the pain like a giant incline ahead of me.  Instead of slowing down and shortening my stride, I let frustration overpower me until I gradually come to a stop.

This time I vowed it would be different. I would follow the training program faithfully running when scheduled and sticking to the assigned distances.  I researched techniques to prevent shin splints and improve muscle strength.  Impatience would not overpower me this time.

Today is day 123.  I have been loyal to the running schedule and staying healthy.  Running is becoming my thing, my passion.  I am looking forward to seeing how many miles I can run by the end of the year.

Saturday, April 30, 2011

Trail Run

Today I discovered that I like running on trails.  This morning I read an article in the monthly town newspaper about the New Boston Rail Trail.  I was planning to complete my run along the main road in town, but the trail sounded better...

A deserted railroad bed from the Boston-Maine Rail line has been converted into a trail that makes a perfect location for long runs.  The trail runs parallel to the river approximately four miles to the neighboring town line.  Instead of running along the road dodging and worrying about traffic, you can cruise along the path and through the trees, listening to the birds and the flow of the river.

About three miles down the path is an 80' footbridge that spans the river.  It was built using the original granite abutments from the rail line.  Crossing the arching timber decking connects you to the second half of the trail path.  It is a beautiful sight.

Running on the trail was amazing and it made me think about the children's story, The Little Engine That Could.  Running or more specifically running in New England has been my mountain.  I have been doubting my ability at times to increase the distances and conquer the hills. Today was a day where I got to say, "I knew I could, I knew I could" because I completed a six mile run that felt smooth and easy.  My hard work and determination, mixed with a little optimism, made me the little engine.

Sunday, April 17, 2011

500 miles and counting

My first 5K time. Before Nike+
My running began in 2006 as a New Year's Resolution. I completed my first 5K in March of that year and my first 10K on Thanksgiving Day.  I continued running and training through 2007 completing more 5Ks, a 4 miler, and another 10K on Thanksgiving Day.  Other than battling an on & off shin splint, I was in the running groove.

I started using the Nike+ sensor in 2008 after a friend gave it to me as a birthday gift.  A few days ago, after syncing my run on Nike I received a video notifying me that I have logged 500 miles using Nike+.  I consider myself a competitive person and I have fallen in love with the ability to sync my runs and login to the website to SEE my results.  I get a thrill out of joining challenges, setting goals, and using the Nike coach program to train.  Seeing my results posted keeps me motivated and is a little internal reward to myself even if no one else is particularly interested.

The Boston Marathon is tomorrow and we are planning to be at the starting line in Hopkinton, Massachusetts to cheer on the runners.  Despite the fact that I am not a marathoner, I am inspired by the dedication and sacrifice these runners have given to their passion.  This year as I am attempting to become a new england runner, I am learning what it takes to be a true runner - to follow a schedule, put in the miles, and to face the hills.

River Road ~ Piscataquog River
My run today certainly did not include Heartbreak Hill, but I did face supreme wind gusts that shook my pace by about 30 seconds.  The 5 mile route was a new one that I sweet-talked my husband into joining me on so that we could enjoy the beauty of the river while we ran.  The first half of the run was just like drifting along with the flowing river - relaxing, rhythmic, and effortless.  After the turn-around, it became a battle against the current.  The tumultuous winds were like fighting upstream against the rapids.  Another test in my training quest. I conquered.

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