RUNNIVERSARY
Today is my runniversary. Two years ago today, I did my very first run. In some ways, it feels like a lifetime ago. In other ways, I can still remember that run like it was yesterday. One thing is clear, the steps that followed that first one have shaped, changed and defined me as a person.
I did it at the track to make sure I kept the option of returning my shoes if they didn't work. None of the high tech gadgets like garmins and heart rate monitors I use now. I didn't even have a watch, so I used the big clock on the wall and switched between running and walking when the minute changed. I went into that run hopeful but nervous. Could I actually run for one solid minute? Turned out I could. Times 10.
Niggles
With today being my runniversary, I really wanted to do a run that was a bit of a repeat of that first one two years ago. It's not to be though. My foot is bothering me, and I've self diagnosed it as potential metatarsalgia. It feels like there's a lump under the ball of my foot, and it hurts a bit walking around.
If there's one thing I'm finally starting to learn, it's that you don't ignore those niggles, regardless of what the training plan says. No running today, and hopefully it will feel better tomorrow, when I'm supposed to run with Keith and Sophia. I have a vague feeling I've felt this before, so I'm hoping it will go away soon.
Doubts
Today I was thinking about the cutoff times for my half ironman in July. I'm a bit nervous about it. I know I should be able to make them - provided nothing goes wrong. Even swimming off course, I should be okay.
Truthfully, what I've been stressing about is the bike. There's a couple sections of road that are really rough, and I'm SLOW there. My average speed on most rides is right around what I need to maintain, just to make the cutoffs - and that's not taking into account the possibility of a flat tire...
Having said that, I can only control what's in my power. Looking back at my bike times from last seasons' races, I should be solid in terms of my pace on the bike. And, I'm a stronger cyclist as well as more confident going down hills. That's got to translate, right?
Racing
Maybe the nerves are just a precursor to my first triathlon of the season! I'm racing on Sunday. It's "just" a sprint, so it should be a good way to get warmed up for more racing. (Trust me, particularly on my runniversary, I realize how it sounds to say "just" a sprint.)
As exciting as my own race on Sunday is my kids' race. Sweetpea will be doing her very first triathlon and Spud will do his second one. They are both super excited about it. Sweetpea particularly wants a medal...
Showing posts with label running. Show all posts
Showing posts with label running. Show all posts
Friday, May 25, 2012
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Sometimes a little push can be good
I've started occasionally running with my husband.
I have to admit that I have just a tiny bit of bitterness that he can outrun me. I've been consistently training for almost 2 years, and he's been running once every week or two since the summer time. Now, he'd happily agree that I have way more endurance then he does. In a 10k or longer race, it would be no contest. But over shorter distances, he can leave me in the dust.
Last weekend, we went on short run while the kids were in a swimming lesson. We were doing run/walk intervals, but he was slowing down a bit so that he could try running longer then the three minutes he does occasionally when he was running on his own. We had planned to just go by feel, and I was determined to hang on. Come hell or high water, I was NOT going to be the one to call for a walk break.
We went off at a nice casual (for him) and bloody fast (for me) pace. About 5:00/km (8:00/mile). And I held on. For 4.5 minutes. Until he called for a walk break. We did some more running, and some more walking. It was just a short run, since we only had 25 minutes with both kids in lessons.
Later, I gave him a hard time about how he was trying to kill me. "That's faster then I do speedwork!" I told him.
Um, faster then I do speedwork? Faster then I run for 30-60 seconds at a time (depending what the workout is)? Yes, it was. But it raised a question: if I was capable of running for 4.5 minutes at that speed, why am I doing my speedwork slower then that?
It wasn't comfortable, but that's not the point. The point is that I was completely capable of holding onto that pace for almost five minutes, and therefore, I am probably not pushing myself hard enough at other times.
I suppose I can learn the occasional thing from my husband.
I have to admit that I have just a tiny bit of bitterness that he can outrun me. I've been consistently training for almost 2 years, and he's been running once every week or two since the summer time. Now, he'd happily agree that I have way more endurance then he does. In a 10k or longer race, it would be no contest. But over shorter distances, he can leave me in the dust.
Last weekend, we went on short run while the kids were in a swimming lesson. We were doing run/walk intervals, but he was slowing down a bit so that he could try running longer then the three minutes he does occasionally when he was running on his own. We had planned to just go by feel, and I was determined to hang on. Come hell or high water, I was NOT going to be the one to call for a walk break.
We went off at a nice casual (for him) and bloody fast (for me) pace. About 5:00/km (8:00/mile). And I held on. For 4.5 minutes. Until he called for a walk break. We did some more running, and some more walking. It was just a short run, since we only had 25 minutes with both kids in lessons.
Later, I gave him a hard time about how he was trying to kill me. "That's faster then I do speedwork!" I told him.
Um, faster then I do speedwork? Faster then I run for 30-60 seconds at a time (depending what the workout is)? Yes, it was. But it raised a question: if I was capable of running for 4.5 minutes at that speed, why am I doing my speedwork slower then that?
It wasn't comfortable, but that's not the point. The point is that I was completely capable of holding onto that pace for almost five minutes, and therefore, I am probably not pushing myself hard enough at other times.
I suppose I can learn the occasional thing from my husband.
Friday, May 4, 2012
Canada Geese freak me out
This post, however, is not about dogs. It's about a close runner up in the scary wildlife department.
Canada Geese.
Seriously. These things are freaky. My most used running routes pass ponds and rivers and therefore, I sometimes have to go through flocks of these things. They hiss and spit. I envision myself being surrounded by them and then engulfed, never to be heard of again.
I thought a flock was the scariest thing to go through, but I was wrong. On Tuesday, I was running. It was a rainy, drizzly day, so the paths were pretty much deserted.
Except for me.
And a Canada Goose.
Just one.
It's like he was sitting there waiting for me. Right next to the path. "Don't make eye contact," I thought, as I carried on and ran past. "Hssssss," he said as I went past him. I was doing an out and back route, but I detoured a bit on the back part so that I could avoid him.
Then yesterday, I was running again. He was there again. All by himself. (I swear, it was the same one!) He's stalking me. I don't know what's going on in his head. Is he watching my route so he can report back to his buddies? I might be having nightmares about scary geese.
Hssssss...
Monday, April 16, 2012
Appreciate your legs
Weekends are heavy in the training department. I had my long run and swim on the Saturday. Then Sunday, a long ride in the morning, and a short run later in the day. When a coach becomes a part of the budget, I think I'll ask about fitting the long run in during the week, but for now, I'm trying not to mess with my training plan too much.
Some weeks, that final run is a real challenge. After a 2.5 hour ride on the trainer, and a long run the day before, I had no idea how my legs would treat me. I made sure to fuel plenty during the day, which I think helped. (It's amazing how much food I eat on long ride days.)
When I got out for that run, I made a mental note that my legs were tired. Tired doesn't mean done though. I walked for a couple minutes like usual, and then I started to run. My training plan called for me to do 35 minutes total with 6 x 20 second strides (described as a relaxed sprint).
I was running without music. Some days I like the distraction of the music, but since I think it partially cuts off the connection between my head and body, I don't like to use it for every run. When I go without it, I'm far more aware of every nuance, every reaction my body has to the stimuli that surround me.
Despite the training I'd already done that day, my legs felt strong. I could feel each step connecting. I'm ultra aware of my calves because of the issues I've recently had on the bike, so it was my ankles and calves that I noticed the most. Sometimes, when I get tired, I really understand why I wear supportive shoes. If I let myself drag or shuffle, I can feel myself start to pronate. Not yesterday though. I wasn't even focusing on keeping strong, merely observing the fact that I was.
And so I ran. One of those perfect runs. The kind where my body does exactly what I ask of it. Easy? No. Effortless? Not a chance. But strong. I asked for one more effort from those legs, and they delivered.
I don't always appreciate my legs. They're bigger then I'd like, and sometimes kind of hairy. I've got some scars and years of obesity have left me with a network of stretch marks across my thighs.
But more importantly, they are strong. They take me where I need them to, and as long as I believe I can do something, they are there to deliver. These are the legs that carried me through a weekend of hard training. They're the legs that have carried me across the finish line of a dozen races, from my first 5K to half marathons, to an Olympic triathlon. They're the legs that are going to help me complete a half ironman in 3.5 months and make me an Ironman in two short years.
Perfect? No. But then, perfection is over rated. Strong? Absolutely. Don't ever underestimate the power in that word, or your belief of it.
Some weeks, that final run is a real challenge. After a 2.5 hour ride on the trainer, and a long run the day before, I had no idea how my legs would treat me. I made sure to fuel plenty during the day, which I think helped. (It's amazing how much food I eat on long ride days.)
When I got out for that run, I made a mental note that my legs were tired. Tired doesn't mean done though. I walked for a couple minutes like usual, and then I started to run. My training plan called for me to do 35 minutes total with 6 x 20 second strides (described as a relaxed sprint).
I was running without music. Some days I like the distraction of the music, but since I think it partially cuts off the connection between my head and body, I don't like to use it for every run. When I go without it, I'm far more aware of every nuance, every reaction my body has to the stimuli that surround me.
Despite the training I'd already done that day, my legs felt strong. I could feel each step connecting. I'm ultra aware of my calves because of the issues I've recently had on the bike, so it was my ankles and calves that I noticed the most. Sometimes, when I get tired, I really understand why I wear supportive shoes. If I let myself drag or shuffle, I can feel myself start to pronate. Not yesterday though. I wasn't even focusing on keeping strong, merely observing the fact that I was.
And so I ran. One of those perfect runs. The kind where my body does exactly what I ask of it. Easy? No. Effortless? Not a chance. But strong. I asked for one more effort from those legs, and they delivered.
I don't always appreciate my legs. They're bigger then I'd like, and sometimes kind of hairy. I've got some scars and years of obesity have left me with a network of stretch marks across my thighs.
But more importantly, they are strong. They take me where I need them to, and as long as I believe I can do something, they are there to deliver. These are the legs that carried me through a weekend of hard training. They're the legs that have carried me across the finish line of a dozen races, from my first 5K to half marathons, to an Olympic triathlon. They're the legs that are going to help me complete a half ironman in 3.5 months and make me an Ironman in two short years.
Perfect? No. But then, perfection is over rated. Strong? Absolutely. Don't ever underestimate the power in that word, or your belief of it.
Saturday, February 25, 2012
I've become soft
Last winter was my first winter running. I was tough. I was hardcore. I ran on some of the coldest days of the year. If it was really slippery, that might have been enough to send me to the track, but for the most part, my runs happened outside, in any weather.
This winter we bought a treadmill. I've become soft. Today, it'll be around -10c (14f) and I'm considering running on the 'mill. Wimp.
Just for fun, here's a couple pictures from a run this week. Just because you see snow doesn't mean it's that cold. I think it was around freezing (0c, 32f).
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| That snow is fairly well packed, and not at all slippery. It does slow me down a bit though, as the footing is less even. |
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| See, I even have my jacket unzipped, and that hat came off during the run. Practically balmy. |
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| The pathway in that direction has less snow, but I actually have to be more careful. There's been some melting and refreezing, so more ice. |
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Trusting your body to get you there
Today, I had a rough run.
It was my second run since a two week period of virtually no activity (due to sickness). I knew it wasn't going to be fast. I knew it likely wouldn't be easy. I didn't expect it to be quite so hard.
In the end, I did 6 km (3.73mi) in 44:19, giving me an average pace of 7:22/km (11:52/mi). It left me feeling wiped, like I'd worked really hard. To think that just a couple months ago, I was doing 20+km (12.4mi) LSD runs at a much faster pace. It feels like I've lost all my fitness. :(
This, just a day after my first swim in almost 2 weeks. Yesterday, I felt like I needed a break every hundred metres. Towards the end, I did do a 500 metre steady swim, just to prove to myself that I still had some endurance. I have some. But, it was a heck of a lot slower then swims I did even in December.
Having said that, I have to remember that my body will come back from this. I probably won't get back to my blazing fast (for me) speeds from the fall right away. But, I learned how to run from nothing, less then 2 years ago. I'm starting from a heck of a lot more then nothing right now.
And, hey, if I'm running slower, it just gives me more time to look at the scenery...
It was my second run since a two week period of virtually no activity (due to sickness). I knew it wasn't going to be fast. I knew it likely wouldn't be easy. I didn't expect it to be quite so hard.
In the end, I did 6 km (3.73mi) in 44:19, giving me an average pace of 7:22/km (11:52/mi). It left me feeling wiped, like I'd worked really hard. To think that just a couple months ago, I was doing 20+km (12.4mi) LSD runs at a much faster pace. It feels like I've lost all my fitness. :(
This, just a day after my first swim in almost 2 weeks. Yesterday, I felt like I needed a break every hundred metres. Towards the end, I did do a 500 metre steady swim, just to prove to myself that I still had some endurance. I have some. But, it was a heck of a lot slower then swims I did even in December.
Having said that, I have to remember that my body will come back from this. I probably won't get back to my blazing fast (for me) speeds from the fall right away. But, I learned how to run from nothing, less then 2 years ago. I'm starting from a heck of a lot more then nothing right now.
And, hey, if I'm running slower, it just gives me more time to look at the scenery...
Sunday, January 15, 2012
I'm back baby!
Last week was a rough week for me. I dragged all week long. I attributed it to being tired and run down from dealing with sick kids and a lack of sleep. Then Friday, I woke up and felt horrible. I spent most of the day in bed and I considered my parenting job for the day a success because my children didn't starve, nor play with knives.
Based on the way this illness ran it's course with Sweetpea, I expected to be completely out of the game for a couple days and partially out for a couple more.
Then Saturday morning rolled around and I was feeling a little better. Not great, but enough that I felt like I could deal with taking Spud to his first skating lesson. I even put a bit of effort into my appearance before we left. (I live in a town after all, and there's a high likelihood of seeing people I know when I go out.)
As the day went on, I just kept feeling better. I realized that I wasn't just laying in bed, but walking around the house. Making dinner was no biggie for me. I'd expected to still be in bed at this point. By the evening I wanted to run.
I restrained myself, but when I woke up this morning on my own, it was with energy. It's the first time in ages I've woken up on my own, rather then to an alarm or a child. And, I am excited about training! I've felt like it's something I "have" to do a lot of the time lately, rather then something I want to do.
Now, I'm not going to be a dummy. I'm taking it easy. I'm even treadmill running. (It is going to be -29c (-20f) with windchill today.) While I've run in that weather, when getting over being sick is not the time to do it. I am still a bit congested, so I need to remember that I am not 100 percent. I'll start with a walk, then a slow run and see how I feel.
But, right now, I feel great. I'm back!
Just for fun, here's a picture of Spud in his skating lesson:
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| This is actually the first class of his second session of skating lessons. |
While you're here, let me mention a friend that has just has started a blog. Kelly is a person that has inspired me in ways I can't even describe. We've been in and out of each other's lives since University. She's just started running, and I know her journey will be exciting to watch. Check her out at Surviving the Couch to K Program and show her how supportive the blogosphere can be.
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Running with the guys
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| Garry and Deon after the run. I'm becoming one of those annoying bloggers that takes pictures all the time. |
Today I headed into the city and ran with a few friends. I've been running with most of these people for almost a year now. Most of the time, there ends up being two pace groups, split along gender lines. Generally, I've ran with Jen or Heather, and there's some others that have joined us at times. I've done parts of runs with the guys, but usually finish it off at a slower more comfortable pace with one of the gals.
Today, when we all arrived, there were four of us. Myself, Deon, Garry and Pat (who I just met today). There was some discussion as to whether Heather was going to come. Eventually we concluded that no, she wasn't. That gave me three choices: go home (not really an option), run with the guys, or run my own pace on my own.
Now, a few months ago, I wouldn't have worried enough about running with faster runners. Back then, I was hitting milestones and seeing my speed improve my leaps and bounds. Then after my half marathon and during the holidays, I let my run volume drop and a few pounds creep on. I was worried about whether I could keep up. So, here's the run broken down by kilometer.
Km 1: 6:10
Crap, crap. Heather's not here. Am I going to be able to do this? Am I going to die by the side of the pathway. Hmm, actually, this isn't so bad. I can probably hold this pace...
Km 2: 5:51
This is fast. FAST. They make it look so easy. I'm working my butt off and this is just a casual jog for the boys.
Km 3: 5:44
Heather, where are you?! It would be much easier running a bit slower. We're doing 7 kilometers today. I don't know if I can handle it. Ah, we've turned around. Hey, this is easier when we're not running into the wind.
Km 4: 6:31 (including a stop at the car, since I didn't have my garmin set to auto-pause.)
Pat wants to drop off jackets at the car. I can go for that. It's around my waist anyways, and it will give me an excuse to stop for a few seconds.
Km 5: 5:49
Alright, more then halfway done. I can handle another 3 kilometers. This is pretty doable.
Forget that! Another TWO kilometers?! I'm dying. Dying.
Km 7: 6:31 (Including another brief stop while we chatted with Pat, as he split off a bit early.)
Hang on. Just hang on. What?! You mean we're not turning off here? Who made this route? Where is my map? Garry told me I was "kicking ass". I just used two full sentences to tell him I was barely hanging on. Hmm... Easier to talk then I thought. Almost there... Ah, there's that garmin beep.
After: Hey, that wasn't so bad. I could have gone further.
Now, I probably will not run with the guys every week. Sundays are supposed to be my long slow distance runs. Even with a drop in my running volume, 7km wasn't too long for me, so I felt okay pushing the speed a bit.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Modesty is optional
Yesterday evening was a treadmill run for me. The great thing about training in your own basement is that it doesn't matter what you wear. Generally, less is good, because it gets warm. I can open the window in the guest room and let some cold air in. I can also use a fan, but it still helps if I don't wear too much. One nice thing is that I can wear clothes I wouldn't wear out of the house.
In this case, I have a pair of running capris I bought online. They're great to run in. Super comfortable. Probably the best feeling running bottoms I've ever used.
They are also kind of transparent.
Then there's the sports bra. I've always envied women that can get away with just wearing a sports bra while running. That will never be me though. Right now, I'm not happy enough with my weight. Once I get down, I'm pretty sure there will be extra skin I want to cover up. I'm okay with that. But, when I run in my basement, I can wear my see through capris and my sports bra sans shirt.
And, now, since I'm making sure to take pictures, here's a couple from yesterday (don't worry, no view of the see through capris and sports bra.)
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| I love raspberries! I can't wait for summer, when they'll be less expensive and taste better. |
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| Alright, you can see a bit of the capris. ;) Here's my new running shoes on the treadmill. |
Sunday, January 1, 2012
2011 - The year of breakthroughs
Well, another year has come and gone. Almost at least. As I'm writing this, it's 10:10 in my time zone. I probably won't make it till midnight. I'm old like that. When you have kids, and you give up sleep on one end of the clock, you don't get it back on the other (by sleeping in). (Edited to say that I did not finish this post last night, so it's getting published this morning.)
So, one more year. What do I have to show for it? Well, when I look at then and now, I start to realize it's lots.
As 2011 rang in, I had just completed my second 5K race, with the frustration of only "kind of" beating the 30 minute mark I had been aiming for. Having said that, I was entering the year as a runner and a triathlete-in-training. My longest runs had reached distances of about 12 km (7.5mi) and I could swim a non-stop 1500 metres in the pool (albeit very slowly), a measly 7 months after learning to swim.
At the beginning of the year, I started a swim program that changed not only my swimming, but my outlook on my abilities. Most importantly, I started to question the limits I had unconsciously set for myself - something that became a theme moving forward through the year.
In March, I did my first race of the year - my second 10K race. I went into it with a goal of beating 1:02, but found myself running faster then I'd expected and finished in a surprising 1:00:12. It gave me a 6 minute PR over my first 10k, but it gave me a taste for more. It showed me that the sub-60 minute 10K wasn't quite as out of reach as I'd previously believed. I also changed my blog name in March, from DebShrinks to DebTris, recognizing what my blog had become and the person I was becoming with it.
In April, I did a race that I will always remember, my first half marathon, and probably the most brutal weather I will ever experience on a race course. And, when I say that I mean it. I doubt I will ever again hit the highways when I read the words "travel is treacherous and not recommended" on the road report. That race was a lesson in dealing with what you are dealt - in that case a blizzard. I fell near the start, and made some mistakes with pacing and nutrition. In the end, I did make it to the finish line, in 2:40:08. A learning experience. No regrets. Even if I wouldn't repeat it (because I'm not keen on getting injured at the beginning of race season, or getting into an accident on the highway).
Around this time, Bella, my road bike made her outdoor debut. Along with the debut came a right of passage - the clipless pedal fall.
Meanwhile, some of my biking continued on my hybrid, pulling a little extra weight behind...
When June rolled around, it meant one big thing: triathlon season. It was hitting the one year mark since the day I'd pledged to do a triathlon, and the time was drawing near. At the beginning of June, I did my first sprint triathlon. It was exhilarating. I had the bug. No doubt. No argument. What I'd once thought was a "one and done" thing had become anything but a bucket list item. I was dreaming bigger. I was dreaming iron.
In the swim session after that first tri, Angie asked me to say four simple words. "I am a triathlete." I'd hesitated to claim that title so soon, but as I drove home that evening, I repeated it to myself over and over again. During those 10 minutes in the car, I went from just saying it to believing it. I am a triathlete.
The summer moved on and I swam in open water while on vacation with my family. I also panicked in open water, at my second triathlon, and the first one with an open water swim. Then, I swam in open water again. And a few more times. Remembering that lesson about falling and getting back up. Or, I suppose in this case, drowning and getting back out. (Okay, I didn't really drown.)
I didn't do any running races over the summer. I didn't need to. Triathlon was my focus and I did a race every month from June - Sept. August was Strathmore, and then the time approached to do my big race of the year, the Banff Olympic distance triathlon.
I nailed Banff. I was incredibly happy with my execution, and the race itself was spectacular. Something pivotal happened to me during that race. Prior to the race, I'd estimated how fast I thought I could do it, and considered how I should pace. One thing I'd hoped was I could do the run at a 7:00/km pace or better. I thought that I should hold myself to no faster then a 6:30/km to keep from blowing up. Once on the run though, my garmin didn't work properly (perhaps the mountains messed up the satellite signal?).
I was left to run by feel and ended up doing the run in 1:01:05, a 6:06/km pace. If I had realized how fast I was going, I would have slowed down. That taught me one of the most important lessons I learned that year: it was my mind holding me back, rather then my body.
After that race, I placed a renewed importance on losing weight, and shifted the focus largely back to running. I entered an Autumn full of growth and discovery. Every time I broke through a barrier, I found another one and shoved it out of my way, while passing through. I destroyed my 10K pr, finishing it in 56:33, proving that the 60 minute barrier was simply a line in the sand, easy to step over.
I reached new distances while training for my last race of the year, topping out at 25km (15.5 mi), giving me huge amounts of confidence going into that race - another one where I destroyed a previous record, beating my time from the Police half by over 30 minutes.
In the midst of all of this, I made other breakthroughs in swimming and biking. Things started to click for me in the pool. I could finally really feel the water and my swimming improved by leaps and bounds. Meanwhile, I did my first spin classes and got taught just how easy I'd taken it on the bike in the past, and how much harder I was capable of going, setting the groundwork for some serious improvement in the coming season.
I tried a running streak, and abandoned it in less then a week - learning another lesson. Balance works for me. As much as I love to run, running every single day doesn't bring me balance - at least not at this point in my life.
Then I entered a down time. I took it a bit easy, letting my run mileage drop (but not stop). I gained a few of those hard lost pounds back and started to feel a bit down about my progress. Then, a few days ago at the pool, I ran into Angie again and commented on my recent slacking. "That's okay. Everyone needs a rest sometimes," she casually commented.
She's right. I did need a bit of a break in the intensity. I'm getting ready to gear up again, but the downtime is part of what has got me ready to do that. It's been one hell of a year.
So, one more year. What do I have to show for it? Well, when I look at then and now, I start to realize it's lots.
As 2011 rang in, I had just completed my second 5K race, with the frustration of only "kind of" beating the 30 minute mark I had been aiming for. Having said that, I was entering the year as a runner and a triathlete-in-training. My longest runs had reached distances of about 12 km (7.5mi) and I could swim a non-stop 1500 metres in the pool (albeit very slowly), a measly 7 months after learning to swim.
At the beginning of the year, I started a swim program that changed not only my swimming, but my outlook on my abilities. Most importantly, I started to question the limits I had unconsciously set for myself - something that became a theme moving forward through the year.
In March, I did my first race of the year - my second 10K race. I went into it with a goal of beating 1:02, but found myself running faster then I'd expected and finished in a surprising 1:00:12. It gave me a 6 minute PR over my first 10k, but it gave me a taste for more. It showed me that the sub-60 minute 10K wasn't quite as out of reach as I'd previously believed. I also changed my blog name in March, from DebShrinks to DebTris, recognizing what my blog had become and the person I was becoming with it.
In April, I did a race that I will always remember, my first half marathon, and probably the most brutal weather I will ever experience on a race course. And, when I say that I mean it. I doubt I will ever again hit the highways when I read the words "travel is treacherous and not recommended" on the road report. That race was a lesson in dealing with what you are dealt - in that case a blizzard. I fell near the start, and made some mistakes with pacing and nutrition. In the end, I did make it to the finish line, in 2:40:08. A learning experience. No regrets. Even if I wouldn't repeat it (because I'm not keen on getting injured at the beginning of race season, or getting into an accident on the highway).
Around this time, Bella, my road bike made her outdoor debut. Along with the debut came a right of passage - the clipless pedal fall.
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| This happened about 5 seconds after I told my husband I wouldn't be falling over for a picture. What's that saying about pride and falling? |
Along with the clipless pedal fall was the reminder of the lesson my son learned recently in skating: You might fall down, but you just have to get up and try, try again.
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| Don't look too closely at my bike position or fit. I've had a better fitting done since this. |
Meanwhile, some of my biking continued on my hybrid, pulling a little extra weight behind...
When June rolled around, it meant one big thing: triathlon season. It was hitting the one year mark since the day I'd pledged to do a triathlon, and the time was drawing near. At the beginning of June, I did my first sprint triathlon. It was exhilarating. I had the bug. No doubt. No argument. What I'd once thought was a "one and done" thing had become anything but a bucket list item. I was dreaming bigger. I was dreaming iron.
In the swim session after that first tri, Angie asked me to say four simple words. "I am a triathlete." I'd hesitated to claim that title so soon, but as I drove home that evening, I repeated it to myself over and over again. During those 10 minutes in the car, I went from just saying it to believing it. I am a triathlete.
The summer moved on and I swam in open water while on vacation with my family. I also panicked in open water, at my second triathlon, and the first one with an open water swim. Then, I swam in open water again. And a few more times. Remembering that lesson about falling and getting back up. Or, I suppose in this case, drowning and getting back out. (Okay, I didn't really drown.)
I didn't do any running races over the summer. I didn't need to. Triathlon was my focus and I did a race every month from June - Sept. August was Strathmore, and then the time approached to do my big race of the year, the Banff Olympic distance triathlon.
I nailed Banff. I was incredibly happy with my execution, and the race itself was spectacular. Something pivotal happened to me during that race. Prior to the race, I'd estimated how fast I thought I could do it, and considered how I should pace. One thing I'd hoped was I could do the run at a 7:00/km pace or better. I thought that I should hold myself to no faster then a 6:30/km to keep from blowing up. Once on the run though, my garmin didn't work properly (perhaps the mountains messed up the satellite signal?).
I was left to run by feel and ended up doing the run in 1:01:05, a 6:06/km pace. If I had realized how fast I was going, I would have slowed down. That taught me one of the most important lessons I learned that year: it was my mind holding me back, rather then my body.
After that race, I placed a renewed importance on losing weight, and shifted the focus largely back to running. I entered an Autumn full of growth and discovery. Every time I broke through a barrier, I found another one and shoved it out of my way, while passing through. I destroyed my 10K pr, finishing it in 56:33, proving that the 60 minute barrier was simply a line in the sand, easy to step over.
I tried a running streak, and abandoned it in less then a week - learning another lesson. Balance works for me. As much as I love to run, running every single day doesn't bring me balance - at least not at this point in my life.
She's right. I did need a bit of a break in the intensity. I'm getting ready to gear up again, but the downtime is part of what has got me ready to do that. It's been one hell of a year.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Then again, tough is relative
In my last post, I admitted to getting a treadmill, because I'm just not feeling tough enough to run in all the cold temperatures and on slippery surfaces this year. In the comments, many of you felt I was already pretty tough for running in -15c (5f), let alone the -30c (-22f) I have run in at times.
On the other hand, I know there are some that probably do think I'm a wimp. If there's one person that might call me a wimp for the treadmill purchase, it would be Keith. ;) I can forgive that though, as he lives in the same climate as I do, so he can legitimately claim to be tough.
I have to admit that I giggle a little when I see some of the southern bloggers complaining about the temperatures when they drop below freezing. Truthfully, my favourite temperature to run in is probably right around freezing, as long as there is no ice. On the flip side, I give you all permission to giggle in the summer when I complain that the temperatures hit 25c (79f). I find that really hot to run in. And no, we don't tend to get that much humidity here, so I can't even blame that...
In my defense the treadmill isn't just for cold weather. Truthfully, I think the biggest benefit is that it opens up my training time. With young kids, I can't run unless my husband is home, even when they are sleeping. Now, I can run at anytime. His work keeps threatening (ahem, talking about) sending him on a business trip. This takes away a lot of my anxiety about how to fit in training if that happens.
Don't worry, I know it's not the same as running outside! I'll still do lots of that, even in cold temps. But, when I can't, for whatever reason, it's nice to know that I can still run.
On the other hand, I know there are some that probably do think I'm a wimp. If there's one person that might call me a wimp for the treadmill purchase, it would be Keith. ;) I can forgive that though, as he lives in the same climate as I do, so he can legitimately claim to be tough.
I have to admit that I giggle a little when I see some of the southern bloggers complaining about the temperatures when they drop below freezing. Truthfully, my favourite temperature to run in is probably right around freezing, as long as there is no ice. On the flip side, I give you all permission to giggle in the summer when I complain that the temperatures hit 25c (79f). I find that really hot to run in. And no, we don't tend to get that much humidity here, so I can't even blame that...
In my defense the treadmill isn't just for cold weather. Truthfully, I think the biggest benefit is that it opens up my training time. With young kids, I can't run unless my husband is home, even when they are sleeping. Now, I can run at anytime. His work keeps threatening (ahem, talking about) sending him on a business trip. This takes away a lot of my anxiety about how to fit in training if that happens.
Don't worry, I know it's not the same as running outside! I'll still do lots of that, even in cold temps. But, when I can't, for whatever reason, it's nice to know that I can still run.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
I'm not really that tough
Last winter, I ran on some brutally cold days. I had Yak Trax (which ended up breaking) and would even run on some relatively slippery days. If I had to get a run in, I generally sucked it up and did it.
But here's the thing, I'm not really that tough. This winter, I'm having trouble getting out when it's -15c (5f). What am I going to do when it's -30c (-22f)? Then there's the slippery aspect of things in the winter.
On Sunday I ran. It wasn't that cold, but there was a good layer of snow over top of some ice that had developed the previous day. I was testing out some new traction aids (which failed). At one point, I managed to roll my ankle (that wasn't due to the failure of the traction aids, but the fact that I couldn't see the pathway and by accident stepped on the edge of it). At another, I slipped on some of that ice (which I couldn't see) despite my traction aids. I wasn't hurt, but it does demonstrate the need to be much more careful out there. Ice covered by snow is probably the worst traction situation out there.
So, Santa, myself and my husband have consulted. This fitness machine has been demoted to the storage room.
 |
| There's actually still room to use it in there. We have a big storage room. |
Something else will take it's place. No worries, I will still run outside. Probably not on too many -30 days though.
I might not be tough, but I'm also not going to be lazy.
Yesterday's HBBC points: 7 (60 minute swim, f/v)
Week to date: 10
Total: 104 (Yipee, I broke 100!)
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Six days of streaking, but I don't like it.
Well, I've been a little back and forth on this streaking thing. At first, I thought it was a neat idea, possibly good for my running, could be a nice mental boost. I wasn't totally convinced and was cautious about injury.
I will say something about the streaking. It teaches you something about making excuses. Running 1 mile is not that hard. It doesn't require a big time investment. Even though it's only been 6 days, I'm recognizing that there is a big difference between making excuses and having reasons not to run. Every time I didn't feel like it, it was an excuse, rather then a reason. So, I ran.
So, why am I writing this blog post now? Well, quite simply, I'm not liking it. Forcing myself to get out and run, no matter what, is not something I'm enjoying. Normally, I like the majority of my runs, but I haven't been enjoying this. It takes me about 10 minutes to start liking most of my runs, which is the time I'm ending the short ones.
Not to mention, it's cold right now. It's slippery sometimes. Getting ready for a run takes more of a time investment. I'm not so keen on investing that time for such a short run.
I've tried to examine my reasons for streaking. There's the bragging rights. There is a certain amount of satisfaction in doing something that other people think is crazy. Hmm. Why else was I doing it again?
Fact is, I would rather run 3-4 times a week and enjoy 95% of my runs. Then, I can swim 3 times a week and bike a few times a week (my bike has been neglected though; I need to get back on that). For me, that's a balance that works. Running every day is not.
Will I ever streak again? Maybe. Maybe not. I think it would have to either be at a time of year when the weather is nice, or be at a time when I have a treadmill in my basement. I think it would also have to be at a time when running is my primary focus, and I'm not trying to balance the bike and swim with it.
So, I've decided: Streaking is not my thing right now. I'm giving up on the streak.
I will say something about the streaking. It teaches you something about making excuses. Running 1 mile is not that hard. It doesn't require a big time investment. Even though it's only been 6 days, I'm recognizing that there is a big difference between making excuses and having reasons not to run. Every time I didn't feel like it, it was an excuse, rather then a reason. So, I ran.
So, why am I writing this blog post now? Well, quite simply, I'm not liking it. Forcing myself to get out and run, no matter what, is not something I'm enjoying. Normally, I like the majority of my runs, but I haven't been enjoying this. It takes me about 10 minutes to start liking most of my runs, which is the time I'm ending the short ones.
Not to mention, it's cold right now. It's slippery sometimes. Getting ready for a run takes more of a time investment. I'm not so keen on investing that time for such a short run.
I've tried to examine my reasons for streaking. There's the bragging rights. There is a certain amount of satisfaction in doing something that other people think is crazy. Hmm. Why else was I doing it again?
Fact is, I would rather run 3-4 times a week and enjoy 95% of my runs. Then, I can swim 3 times a week and bike a few times a week (my bike has been neglected though; I need to get back on that). For me, that's a balance that works. Running every day is not.
Will I ever streak again? Maybe. Maybe not. I think it would have to either be at a time of year when the weather is nice, or be at a time when I have a treadmill in my basement. I think it would also have to be at a time when running is my primary focus, and I'm not trying to balance the bike and swim with it.
So, I've decided: Streaking is not my thing right now. I'm giving up on the streak.
Yesterday's HBBC points: 8 (1 mile run, 60 minute swim, f/v)
Week to date: 20
Total: 94
Days of streak: 6 - about to be broken...
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Running - cheaper then therapy
Does anyone else have a tendency to blow life's events out of proportion? I know I do. I got some unsettling (though totally expected) news last night and and I was having trouble processing it. You know how your mind starts running worst case scenario-type things. No good reason for it. Just the way I roll sometimes.
I went for a run. It wasn't a fast run. It wasn't even a particularly long run. I had no goals other then to run. The first 10 minutes, I didn't even like it. I wanted to stop. Then I got into my zone. It's like, sometimes, things go in circles in your head. You keep repeating the same problems over and over, and go around and around. But, when I run, I mentally resolve things. Whether I come to a solution, or I accept the lack of a current solution, it lets me stop dwelling.
Yet another reason to run.
I went for a run. It wasn't a fast run. It wasn't even a particularly long run. I had no goals other then to run. The first 10 minutes, I didn't even like it. I wanted to stop. Then I got into my zone. It's like, sometimes, things go in circles in your head. You keep repeating the same problems over and over, and go around and around. But, when I run, I mentally resolve things. Whether I come to a solution, or I accept the lack of a current solution, it lets me stop dwelling.
Yet another reason to run.
Yesterday's HBBC points: 1 (f/v)
Today's HBBC points: 6 (8km/5mi run + f/v)
Week to date: 21
Total: 59
Days of running streak: 1
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Are you streaking this December?
It's something that a lot of runners do: a running streak. You run every day, and as long as you can keep it going, it's considered a streak. I think it's a neat idea. There is actually some good evidence for doing it. One of the best ways to be a better runner is to run consistently. I also think there's good reasons not to do it...
Having said that, this December, I've decided to attempt a running streak. A local running store is hosting it for the month of December. Heather, one of my running friends, mentioned it to me on the weekend, and since then, it's been turning over in my mind. I won't deny that the fact there are some draw prizes also has me tempted.
The deal: run at least 1 mile (1.6 km) per day for the entire month of December. I've never consistently run more then 4 days a week (since I bike and swim), so this will be new to me. Having said that, I enjoy running more when I'm doing it consistently. However, I am planning to be cautious.
Here's my concerns with streaking and how I'm addressing them:
1. Increasing mileage too much.
I've always followed the 10% rule when increasing mileage, and I won't be making an exception while streaking. In fact, I'm not planning on increasing my weekly mileage at all during the month of December. I'm just planning on spreading it out. It's a bit easier, given that I've recently come off of half marathon training. I also plan to run only a mile on 3-4 days a week. Realistically, I have to hold it to a mile on some days, or I will never get my bikes and swims in.
2. Running too hard
When I go for short runs, I am often tempted to go all out and run really fast. After all, if I'm only running a mile, I can run it way faster then if I'm running 10-15km. Not a good idea if I'm already increasing my running frequency. Some of those miles will be very easy miles.
3. Running when you shouldn't
Personally, I think the biggest danger with streaking is that it encourages you to run when your body is saying otherwise. I am going to attempt a month long running streak. I think it's a great idea to encourage running on days where you just don't feel like it because you'd rather be lazy. However, if I am getting weird pains in my knees or other joints, or if I'm getting signs from my body that I just shouldn't run, I will break the streak and take the day off. I also have no intention to continue streaking when the month is done. I think the longer you have an unbroken streak, the bigger the temptation to ignore your body to keep the streak.
So, with tomorrow being December 1, the streak begins. I'm feeling better today (I'm wondering if yesterday was a food related issue rather then an actual illness), so I'm optimistic that I'll be starting healthy. Let the streak begin!
Having said that, this December, I've decided to attempt a running streak. A local running store is hosting it for the month of December. Heather, one of my running friends, mentioned it to me on the weekend, and since then, it's been turning over in my mind. I won't deny that the fact there are some draw prizes also has me tempted.
The deal: run at least 1 mile (1.6 km) per day for the entire month of December. I've never consistently run more then 4 days a week (since I bike and swim), so this will be new to me. Having said that, I enjoy running more when I'm doing it consistently. However, I am planning to be cautious.
Here's my concerns with streaking and how I'm addressing them:
1. Increasing mileage too much.
I've always followed the 10% rule when increasing mileage, and I won't be making an exception while streaking. In fact, I'm not planning on increasing my weekly mileage at all during the month of December. I'm just planning on spreading it out. It's a bit easier, given that I've recently come off of half marathon training. I also plan to run only a mile on 3-4 days a week. Realistically, I have to hold it to a mile on some days, or I will never get my bikes and swims in.
2. Running too hard
When I go for short runs, I am often tempted to go all out and run really fast. After all, if I'm only running a mile, I can run it way faster then if I'm running 10-15km. Not a good idea if I'm already increasing my running frequency. Some of those miles will be very easy miles.
3. Running when you shouldn't
Personally, I think the biggest danger with streaking is that it encourages you to run when your body is saying otherwise. I am going to attempt a month long running streak. I think it's a great idea to encourage running on days where you just don't feel like it because you'd rather be lazy. However, if I am getting weird pains in my knees or other joints, or if I'm getting signs from my body that I just shouldn't run, I will break the streak and take the day off. I also have no intention to continue streaking when the month is done. I think the longer you have an unbroken streak, the bigger the temptation to ignore your body to keep the streak.
So, with tomorrow being December 1, the streak begins. I'm feeling better today (I'm wondering if yesterday was a food related issue rather then an actual illness), so I'm optimistic that I'll be starting healthy. Let the streak begin!
Yesterday's HBBC points: 0
Week to date: 14
Total: 52
Friday, November 11, 2011
Race goals
When I started running, I thought it would always be with the goal of "just finishing". I didn't see myself as a real runner or an athlete. I figured doing a race was an accomplishment in and of itself. That was goal enough.
At some point, that changed. I think it was shortly after my first 10k race (and second race overall). At that point, I realized that finishing wasn't a big enough goal for me. I wanted to get faster. I wanted to get stronger. I wanted to beat myself.
I kind of accepted this change in myself, but wasn't really sure why it had come about. Then recently I read a phrase in a book that clarified it for me. "A goal should stretch you." Basically, there's no point in setting a goal that is a given. When I did my first race, it was mainly to finish, and at that point, it was a goal that stretched me. Now, when I go into any race, I know I can do the distance. Barring an injury or something very wrong happening, I'm going to finish. Planning to do so is not a stretch.
So, having said that, here are my goals for the Last Chance Half marathon on Sunday.
1. Run it in 2:15 or less
2. Pace well, stay mentally strong
3. Push myself, and finish strong
I've been a bit conflicted about the 2:15 goal. Up until a month and a half ago, I thought I'd be going into this race with a goal to beat 2:30. Then, I did a 22km (13.7mi) training run, on a somewhat hilly route in 2:28. The half marathon I am doing is on a basically flat route, and (if you're not familiar with the distance) is only 21.1 km (13.1mi). At that point, I realized that going into it with a 2:30 goal was not a challenge.
So, my new goal is 2:15. To achieve that, I have to run an average of 6:20/km (10:12/mi). (Technically 6:24, but there's always a chance the course will be slightly long.) The idea of running that pace for that long scares me a little bit. It seems really ambitious. I've also caught my son's cold, so I'm not going into the race in top form.
But, then there's the fact that I ran a recent 10k race in 56:33, at average pace of 5:40/km (9:06/mi). I also ran the 10km at the end of an olympic triathlon at a pace of 6:07/km. Was it hard? Yeah. But, it's supposed to be. If you're familiar with the McMillan calculator, it tells me that I should be able to do a half marathon in 2:05:50 (based on my 10k time). So, that raises the question of whether 2:15 is even ambitious enough?
The answer? I don't know. I know that I have trained consistently and thoroughly for this race. I've done 5 runs that were 20 km or more. I won't say I've nailed every single run, because life has gotten in the way a couple times. I have nailed almost every run though.
And, I've become so much stronger mentally. I've gained an attitude that I can do anything. The only thing that can hold me back is my head, and I won't let it.
So, 2:15? Too ambitious?
Hogwash.
Not ambitious enough?
Possibly. I'm still figuring out my abilities, and the fact that they keep changing makes it hard to really nail down what I can do. I'm going in with a plan of pacing for 2:15 - until the last 10 km. Then, if I've got it in me, I'll pick it up and push. If I end up with a serious negative split, I'll plan to set more aggressive goals in the future. If I cross the finish line in 2:14:58, I'll know I gave it everything I've got. Then I'll train more, and still set more aggressive goals in the future anyways.
At some point, that changed. I think it was shortly after my first 10k race (and second race overall). At that point, I realized that finishing wasn't a big enough goal for me. I wanted to get faster. I wanted to get stronger. I wanted to beat myself.
I kind of accepted this change in myself, but wasn't really sure why it had come about. Then recently I read a phrase in a book that clarified it for me. "A goal should stretch you." Basically, there's no point in setting a goal that is a given. When I did my first race, it was mainly to finish, and at that point, it was a goal that stretched me. Now, when I go into any race, I know I can do the distance. Barring an injury or something very wrong happening, I'm going to finish. Planning to do so is not a stretch.
So, having said that, here are my goals for the Last Chance Half marathon on Sunday.
1. Run it in 2:15 or less
2. Pace well, stay mentally strong
3. Push myself, and finish strong
I've been a bit conflicted about the 2:15 goal. Up until a month and a half ago, I thought I'd be going into this race with a goal to beat 2:30. Then, I did a 22km (13.7mi) training run, on a somewhat hilly route in 2:28. The half marathon I am doing is on a basically flat route, and (if you're not familiar with the distance) is only 21.1 km (13.1mi). At that point, I realized that going into it with a 2:30 goal was not a challenge.
So, my new goal is 2:15. To achieve that, I have to run an average of 6:20/km (10:12/mi). (Technically 6:24, but there's always a chance the course will be slightly long.) The idea of running that pace for that long scares me a little bit. It seems really ambitious. I've also caught my son's cold, so I'm not going into the race in top form.
But, then there's the fact that I ran a recent 10k race in 56:33, at average pace of 5:40/km (9:06/mi). I also ran the 10km at the end of an olympic triathlon at a pace of 6:07/km. Was it hard? Yeah. But, it's supposed to be. If you're familiar with the McMillan calculator, it tells me that I should be able to do a half marathon in 2:05:50 (based on my 10k time). So, that raises the question of whether 2:15 is even ambitious enough?
The answer? I don't know. I know that I have trained consistently and thoroughly for this race. I've done 5 runs that were 20 km or more. I won't say I've nailed every single run, because life has gotten in the way a couple times. I have nailed almost every run though.
And, I've become so much stronger mentally. I've gained an attitude that I can do anything. The only thing that can hold me back is my head, and I won't let it.
So, 2:15? Too ambitious?
Hogwash.
Not ambitious enough?
Possibly. I'm still figuring out my abilities, and the fact that they keep changing makes it hard to really nail down what I can do. I'm going in with a plan of pacing for 2:15 - until the last 10 km. Then, if I've got it in me, I'll pick it up and push. If I end up with a serious negative split, I'll plan to set more aggressive goals in the future. If I cross the finish line in 2:14:58, I'll know I gave it everything I've got. Then I'll train more, and still set more aggressive goals in the future anyways.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
How have you limited yourself? Dare to dream.
A year ago, I thought that an ultimate goal would be to run a sub-60 10k. In terms of my running, I never really looked beyond that. To me, that was fast. To actually be able to hold that fast pace for a full 10k seemed almost unreachable.
Um, did I happen to mention that I destroyed that goal just over a week ago? After 16 months of running, I reached my "ultimate" goal.
It was an incredibly rewarding experience. Yet, at the same time, it kind of left me directionless. Searching for something. But what?
New goals. New dreams.
Here's the thing though. I was so set on where my limits were that I didn't dare to look beyond that. But, really? Where are my limits? I don't know the answer to that question, but I do know one thing: I'm not setting a limit on it.
It's important to have short term goals, mid-term goals, and long term goals. It's also important to have dreams and aspirations. What's the difference between goals and dreams? I'm sure there's lots of definitions, but here's my take on it. Goals are specific and attainable. Dreams are things that you'd like to reach, but don't know when, how or if.
So, with that said, I'm all about impulsive goal setting. Seriously. I think when you follow your first instinct, it's sometimes exactly what you need. Overthink it and you can psych yourself out.
Short term goals:
Run a strong half marathon on Nov 13
Run that half marathon in less then 2:15
These goals are ones that I am currently working towards and have a date when I plan to achieve them. I consider them to be attainable and realistic right now. The 2:15 goal scares me a little bit, yet at the same time, I question whether I can even go faster. The Mcmillan calculator actually predicts my half marathon time at 2:05:50 (based on my recent 10k). Right now, I intend to pace for 2:15, and then negative split if I have it in me.
Mid-term goals:
Run a sub 26 minute 5K
Run a sub 55 minute 10K
Run a sub 2 hour half marathon
Break 3 hours in an Olympic triathlon
Complete a half ironman, to the best of my ability
Some of these goals are probably attainable (or almost attainable) now, but I don't have specific plans when I will achieve them. I mainly plan to shoot for them the next time I am doing races of those distances.
Long-term goals:
Complete a marathon, to the best of my ability
Complete a full ironman, to the best of my ability
These are things I definitely plan to do, eventually. The ironman is years away, and I haven't decided yet when I will be attempting a marathon.
Something that I have come to realize about myself is that I will never be happy with "just finishing". I don't always have to have a time goal, but I need to feel like I did everything I could, on that day and at that point in my training. Hence, the term "to the best of my ability" on some of the longer distance races. If I cross an ironman finish line in 16:59:59 and I gave it everything I had, I'd be happy with finishing. If I crossed it in 14 hours, but I took it really easy on the bike and walked on the run (when I had no need to), I'd be unhappy.
And now, because sometimes, you should shoot for the stars...
Dreams:
Place in my age group
Boston Qualify
Kona Qualify
I've often been heard saying "I'm never going to be placing". I'm now recognizing that that's a limit that I've put on myself. At this point, I don't know what I'm capable of. However, I do believe that I have the potential to do far more then I have. I've also been heard to say "I'm not a fast runner." I now believe I have the potential to go much much faster then I have. I haven't even scratched the surface of my speed.
And yep, I put it out there. I would love to BQ or KQ. Is that an attainable goal? Truthfully, I don't know. I honestly don't know if I have that potential. But, then that's why it's not a "goal". I might have that potential though. And, that is why I've allowed it to be a dream.
As for limits? Well, I'm not going there anymore. About the only limit I'm seeing is that I will never go pro. Realistically, I'm too old for that, and at this point in my life, it's not what I want for me or my family.
Otherwise, the possibilities are limitless. I'll just see how far I can go.
Um, did I happen to mention that I destroyed that goal just over a week ago? After 16 months of running, I reached my "ultimate" goal.
It was an incredibly rewarding experience. Yet, at the same time, it kind of left me directionless. Searching for something. But what?
New goals. New dreams.
Here's the thing though. I was so set on where my limits were that I didn't dare to look beyond that. But, really? Where are my limits? I don't know the answer to that question, but I do know one thing: I'm not setting a limit on it.
It's important to have short term goals, mid-term goals, and long term goals. It's also important to have dreams and aspirations. What's the difference between goals and dreams? I'm sure there's lots of definitions, but here's my take on it. Goals are specific and attainable. Dreams are things that you'd like to reach, but don't know when, how or if.
So, with that said, I'm all about impulsive goal setting. Seriously. I think when you follow your first instinct, it's sometimes exactly what you need. Overthink it and you can psych yourself out.
Short term goals:
Run a strong half marathon on Nov 13
Run that half marathon in less then 2:15
These goals are ones that I am currently working towards and have a date when I plan to achieve them. I consider them to be attainable and realistic right now. The 2:15 goal scares me a little bit, yet at the same time, I question whether I can even go faster. The Mcmillan calculator actually predicts my half marathon time at 2:05:50 (based on my recent 10k). Right now, I intend to pace for 2:15, and then negative split if I have it in me.
Mid-term goals:
Run a sub 26 minute 5K
Run a sub 55 minute 10K
Run a sub 2 hour half marathon
Break 3 hours in an Olympic triathlon
Complete a half ironman, to the best of my ability
Some of these goals are probably attainable (or almost attainable) now, but I don't have specific plans when I will achieve them. I mainly plan to shoot for them the next time I am doing races of those distances.
Long-term goals:
Complete a marathon, to the best of my ability
Complete a full ironman, to the best of my ability
These are things I definitely plan to do, eventually. The ironman is years away, and I haven't decided yet when I will be attempting a marathon.
Something that I have come to realize about myself is that I will never be happy with "just finishing". I don't always have to have a time goal, but I need to feel like I did everything I could, on that day and at that point in my training. Hence, the term "to the best of my ability" on some of the longer distance races. If I cross an ironman finish line in 16:59:59 and I gave it everything I had, I'd be happy with finishing. If I crossed it in 14 hours, but I took it really easy on the bike and walked on the run (when I had no need to), I'd be unhappy.
And now, because sometimes, you should shoot for the stars...
Dreams:
Place in my age group
Boston Qualify
Kona Qualify
I've often been heard saying "I'm never going to be placing". I'm now recognizing that that's a limit that I've put on myself. At this point, I don't know what I'm capable of. However, I do believe that I have the potential to do far more then I have. I've also been heard to say "I'm not a fast runner." I now believe I have the potential to go much much faster then I have. I haven't even scratched the surface of my speed.
And yep, I put it out there. I would love to BQ or KQ. Is that an attainable goal? Truthfully, I don't know. I honestly don't know if I have that potential. But, then that's why it's not a "goal". I might have that potential though. And, that is why I've allowed it to be a dream.
As for limits? Well, I'm not going there anymore. About the only limit I'm seeing is that I will never go pro. Realistically, I'm too old for that, and at this point in my life, it's not what I want for me or my family.
Otherwise, the possibilities are limitless. I'll just see how far I can go.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Don't be a dumb ass - My shin splint situation
You know how when you go to the dentist, you'll always be asked how often you floss? You'll sheepishly reply something about how you try to do it every couple nights. Really, you do it about once a month, or just on days after eating corn on the cob. You know it, you're dentist knows it, and you both know you ought to do it more.
That's how I've always felt when I go to see my massage therapist, Shannon. I'll mention a tight muscle and she'll suggest a couple stretches for it. She also always reminds me to stretch and sometimes ice the muscles she worked on afterwards. And... well, let's just say, I'm less then diligent.
Now, I've got another stretching advocate, Dr Greg. He's the chiropractor I went to see about my tight achey calf, once I realized it could be shin splints.
Now, it may seem ridiculous that I didn't realize I was developing shin splints, but let me just say that it isn't my shins that were bothering me. Rather, it is the muscle that connects to them. So, I was identifying it as calf tightness, which it is. The thing is, with the location of this calf tightness (and the fact that it never really went away), it can lead to shin splints.
Anyways, Dr. Greg asked me about my stretching practices. I said that I try to stretch - sometimes. Truthfully, I do try to stretch, but not nearly as often as I should. I'd say 1 out 4 runs a week are followed by a good stretch. After swimming or biking? Almost never.
Then he asked me if I'd been icing the sore calf. I said no. I know I should, but I just don't take the time.
He told me I was being a dumb ass.
Okay... actually he didn't say I was a dumb ass. Much more diplomatic. I think it was more like "Deb, Deb Deb, you're going to have to be a more seasoned triathlete."
What I heard (and I'm sure he was thinking) is "Don't be such a dumb ass. You're not twenty years old anymore."
Now, the GOOD news is, I've got no restriction on running, and while this is an overuse injury, it is currently a very minor one - provided I take care of it properly.
Then he proceeded to move my leg around and prod at my calf. If you've never had ART before, let me say it sure doesn't tickle. But, it's productive pain, and if it would keep me running, I'd deal with any pain that can help me.
For the next couple weeks, I need to stretch after running, ice it and get some ART (active release therapy).
Oh, and I probably should keep stretching after that, as well as icing when I have sore spots. After all, I need to stop being a dumb ass, because I'm not twenty years old anymore...
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Weight loss Wednesday - In a bit of a slump
So, today's weight on the scale was 194.2, for a weekly loss of 0.6 and a total loss of 49.2. I'm not happy with that loss, but I'm not devastated by it either.
When I decided to restart my weight loss, I pledged to track all my food and watch my calorie intake. The first week, things got away from me and I never started doing it. I still lost over 2 pounds. The next week, it didn't really happen either, and I still had a respectable loss of over a pound. This week, it's caught up to me. Since I only want to be in weight loss mode for a few months, I'm going to have to start making it count by actually counting what I eat.
On a not terribly related note, I'm feeling sort of down right now. I've had a couple of hits this week, and there's a couple other things up in the air. I'm a planner, and am frustrated by the lack of my ability to plan.
First off, my husband and I talked about budget and the numbers, and it looks like a coach is not in the cards for next season. Yes, I realize I am not a pro, and I'm never going to place. Having said that, I had really been hoping we could swing it. I know I need to start training smarter. I feel like a coach would help push me in ways I'm afraid to push myself. It's not the end of the world, but I'm going to have to get past the disappointment.
Then, it seems that a lingering soreness is likely shin splints. I've had a tight achey muscle on the inside of my calf for a couple months now, and kept hoping it would go away. I had my husband ask his ART/chiro whether he thinks it's something that can be worked on. He does think it is something that can be worked on, and he also suggested the likelihood of shin splints. Now, I have an appointment for tomorrow, so I hope for a more definitive diagnosis and plan. I just really really hope this doesn't impact my half marathon plans. I am fairly confident that it's not a stress fracture (simply not enough pain), so I seriously hope he doesn't suggest I stop running - even temporarily.
Then there's my whole race schedule for next year. This is one of those things that I just want to come into place so I know what I'm working towards. I'd been planning on doing Calgary 70.3, but while the date has been announced, there's been no further information about it and it's not on the ironman website. I'm worried it may not be happening.
Of course, there's also the fact that it's the day after my cousin's wedding. Is it crazy to do a half ironman the day after attending a wedding? I would have no trouble leaving early; we have kids, so probably would be anyways. Besides, I'm not that much of a late night person. I think we even left our own wedding before midnight.
Then there's the fact that the other half-iron I considered is likely to fill up anytime. So, if I wait, but it turns out the Calgary one isn't running, I'll be left scrambling.
Meh, what a whiny annoying post! Now, I've had my whine, I'll start coming up with a plan to deal with all my frustrations. Wish me luck with that appointment tomorrow! That's the biggest thing weighing on me right now...
When I decided to restart my weight loss, I pledged to track all my food and watch my calorie intake. The first week, things got away from me and I never started doing it. I still lost over 2 pounds. The next week, it didn't really happen either, and I still had a respectable loss of over a pound. This week, it's caught up to me. Since I only want to be in weight loss mode for a few months, I'm going to have to start making it count by actually counting what I eat.
On a not terribly related note, I'm feeling sort of down right now. I've had a couple of hits this week, and there's a couple other things up in the air. I'm a planner, and am frustrated by the lack of my ability to plan.
First off, my husband and I talked about budget and the numbers, and it looks like a coach is not in the cards for next season. Yes, I realize I am not a pro, and I'm never going to place. Having said that, I had really been hoping we could swing it. I know I need to start training smarter. I feel like a coach would help push me in ways I'm afraid to push myself. It's not the end of the world, but I'm going to have to get past the disappointment.
Then, it seems that a lingering soreness is likely shin splints. I've had a tight achey muscle on the inside of my calf for a couple months now, and kept hoping it would go away. I had my husband ask his ART/chiro whether he thinks it's something that can be worked on. He does think it is something that can be worked on, and he also suggested the likelihood of shin splints. Now, I have an appointment for tomorrow, so I hope for a more definitive diagnosis and plan. I just really really hope this doesn't impact my half marathon plans. I am fairly confident that it's not a stress fracture (simply not enough pain), so I seriously hope he doesn't suggest I stop running - even temporarily.
Then there's my whole race schedule for next year. This is one of those things that I just want to come into place so I know what I'm working towards. I'd been planning on doing Calgary 70.3, but while the date has been announced, there's been no further information about it and it's not on the ironman website. I'm worried it may not be happening.
Of course, there's also the fact that it's the day after my cousin's wedding. Is it crazy to do a half ironman the day after attending a wedding? I would have no trouble leaving early; we have kids, so probably would be anyways. Besides, I'm not that much of a late night person. I think we even left our own wedding before midnight.
Then there's the fact that the other half-iron I considered is likely to fill up anytime. So, if I wait, but it turns out the Calgary one isn't running, I'll be left scrambling.
Meh, what a whiny annoying post! Now, I've had my whine, I'll start coming up with a plan to deal with all my frustrations. Wish me luck with that appointment tomorrow! That's the biggest thing weighing on me right now...
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Looking forward - what's coming up next
So, it's now been a week since my Olympic triathlon. This week, I took it easy. My plan had been to just run and bike when I felt like it - no pressure. I actually ended up doing a lot less then I planned, due to getting hit with a cold during the week. Rather then train through the illness, like I would at other times, I took it easy and got more sleep. I only ran twice, and didn't bike at all. Now, that the week is over (and I'm feeling better), and it's time to get serious about training again.
Today, I sat down and planned out my run training for my next half marathon (the last chance half marathon, Nov 19). In order to do this, I had to make a decision. What are my goals for this half?
I seriously considered speed work. I am honestly of the opinion that I have untapped speed. I have the potential to go significantly faster then I have - if I work for it. (And that work can't just come from just being tough on race day; I'd need to do speed work in training.) I have never done any real speed work. Sure, I occasionally push myself a bit more on a run, or I'll sprint to the finish. Real, planned, consistent speed work? None.
On the other hand, I have to ask myself what I want out of this race. It's not my first half marathon. I did do one in April, so my goal isn't "just" to finish. Looking back though, I've always been disappointed with the Police half. Yes, I finished, but I felt like the course and the distance beat me. I paced poorly and crashed towards the end. So, is speed what I want the most with my next half marathon? Some serious thought tells me no.
What I want with my next half marathon is a solid and well paced race. I not only want to finish, but I want to finish strong. So, with that in mind, I'll continue to focus on running volume and consistency. I am a good place with my run volume, as I kept it high going into my Olympic triathlon. I'll build a little bit more and my last couple long runs before taper will have me doing 24km (15mi) rather then the 18 km (11mi) I topped out at last time. I'm confident that having a few solid runs that are longer then the race distance will give both my body and mind the edge I need this time around.
In other news, I did a few google searches for half ironman training plans. I won't be specifically starting to train for one until December or January at the earliest, but I wanted to see where I needed to be prior to beginning the plan. I was surprised and pleased to see that my training volumes in all three sports are already at the point where I could start half-iron training. Sweet!
(Today I volunteered at my first race, and Spud and Sweetpea raced a kids' 1 km. The pictures are on my husband's phone though, so that blog post will come when he sends them to me...)
Today, I sat down and planned out my run training for my next half marathon (the last chance half marathon, Nov 19). In order to do this, I had to make a decision. What are my goals for this half?
I seriously considered speed work. I am honestly of the opinion that I have untapped speed. I have the potential to go significantly faster then I have - if I work for it. (And that work can't just come from just being tough on race day; I'd need to do speed work in training.) I have never done any real speed work. Sure, I occasionally push myself a bit more on a run, or I'll sprint to the finish. Real, planned, consistent speed work? None.
On the other hand, I have to ask myself what I want out of this race. It's not my first half marathon. I did do one in April, so my goal isn't "just" to finish. Looking back though, I've always been disappointed with the Police half. Yes, I finished, but I felt like the course and the distance beat me. I paced poorly and crashed towards the end. So, is speed what I want the most with my next half marathon? Some serious thought tells me no.
What I want with my next half marathon is a solid and well paced race. I not only want to finish, but I want to finish strong. So, with that in mind, I'll continue to focus on running volume and consistency. I am a good place with my run volume, as I kept it high going into my Olympic triathlon. I'll build a little bit more and my last couple long runs before taper will have me doing 24km (15mi) rather then the 18 km (11mi) I topped out at last time. I'm confident that having a few solid runs that are longer then the race distance will give both my body and mind the edge I need this time around.
In other news, I did a few google searches for half ironman training plans. I won't be specifically starting to train for one until December or January at the earliest, but I wanted to see where I needed to be prior to beginning the plan. I was surprised and pleased to see that my training volumes in all three sports are already at the point where I could start half-iron training. Sweet!
(Today I volunteered at my first race, and Spud and Sweetpea raced a kids' 1 km. The pictures are on my husband's phone though, so that blog post will come when he sends them to me...)
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