And so, I admit defeat. Trying to be a farmer and a runner is not, at the moment, a realistic venture. It was an awesome first week of work, but it was exhausting, too, and I barely made it through a 40-minute run this weekend and managed a total of zero runs during the week.
The idea of logging the necessary half-marathon 90-minute-and longer training runs in the next two months while also getting farm-strong makes me feel woozy.
Instead, my longterm goal this summer now is to get back up to running two or three times a week. As things stand, my short term goal is to manage any other activity besides farming and falling asleep at 8:30pm every night.
If my fitness shapes up in the next few months, I may aim to run a sub-2 in the same Victoria Half-Marathon that I ran last October. If not, I'll run as much as possible this summer while maintaining a useful amount of energy for my job, and shoot for another race at another time.
Running is about the love, not about the punishment. It kept me sane and healthy this past winter while I was planning and applying and waiting and pacing. I won't be giving it up.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Another Quick Catch-Up
May 1st: Day 57
80 minutes, slow and steady. Last run in Rathtrevor before I head over to Salt Spring Island. I will miss my favourite trails but am so excited to explore what Salt Spring has to offer.
April 29th: Day 55
45-minute tempo run. Best run of the bunch, and a spectacularly sunny spring day.
April 27th: Day 53
30 mins. Intended to do speed intervals, but really, there was no discernible difference between what I thought were my bursts of speed and my regular tortoise pace.
April 25th: Day 51
75 minutes, slow and steady.
April 22nd: Day 48
Ran 6 hill repeats.
80 minutes, slow and steady. Last run in Rathtrevor before I head over to Salt Spring Island. I will miss my favourite trails but am so excited to explore what Salt Spring has to offer.
April 29th: Day 55
45-minute tempo run. Best run of the bunch, and a spectacularly sunny spring day.
April 27th: Day 53
30 mins. Intended to do speed intervals, but really, there was no discernible difference between what I thought were my bursts of speed and my regular tortoise pace.
April 25th: Day 51
75 minutes, slow and steady.
April 22nd: Day 48
Ran 6 hill repeats.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Catch-Up
Day 46, April 20:
30-minute run around the UBC Endowment Lands and Golf Course.
Day 43, April 17:
40-minute tempo run in Rathtrevor Park, during which I freaked out a bunny so badly he jumped off a bridge and into a pond to escape my thundering feet (it's ok - bunnies can swim!).
Day 41, April 15:
70-minute long run through Rathtrevor. No bunnies were harmed, physically or psychologically, during this run.
Day 39, April 13:
25-minute interval run with 9 speed repeats.
After reading a number of articles on half-marathon training, I realize I should probably be counting out my runs in kilometres rather than minutes, but that would require a fancier watch than I own. I'm not a big fan of endeavours that require a lot of gear. Running can be a beautifully simple sport: a solid sports bra and a decent pair of shoes, and I'm good to go.
But my one concession to running culture merchandise is the magazines. I like them. They inspire me. Also, they are shiny.
I like to read them over morning tea, even though I know I should be reading the newspaper. Current events publications tend to get me down. Being informed is one thing, but starting the day incapacitated with anxiety about the state of the world is another. It does me little good to know that yet another bomb has decimated more lives. But when I read about a race that winds through apple orchards in September and awards pies to top-placing finishers, the future feels friendlier.
Running isn't going to cure the world of fundamentalist wing-nuts with a penchant for flammable things, but I like knowing we also live in a world where people hand out pies after races.
30-minute run around the UBC Endowment Lands and Golf Course.
Day 43, April 17:
40-minute tempo run in Rathtrevor Park, during which I freaked out a bunny so badly he jumped off a bridge and into a pond to escape my thundering feet (it's ok - bunnies can swim!).
Day 41, April 15:
70-minute long run through Rathtrevor. No bunnies were harmed, physically or psychologically, during this run.
Day 39, April 13:
25-minute interval run with 9 speed repeats.
After reading a number of articles on half-marathon training, I realize I should probably be counting out my runs in kilometres rather than minutes, but that would require a fancier watch than I own. I'm not a big fan of endeavours that require a lot of gear. Running can be a beautifully simple sport: a solid sports bra and a decent pair of shoes, and I'm good to go.
But my one concession to running culture merchandise is the magazines. I like them. They inspire me. Also, they are shiny.
I like to read them over morning tea, even though I know I should be reading the newspaper. Current events publications tend to get me down. Being informed is one thing, but starting the day incapacitated with anxiety about the state of the world is another. It does me little good to know that yet another bomb has decimated more lives. But when I read about a race that winds through apple orchards in September and awards pies to top-placing finishers, the future feels friendlier.
Running isn't going to cure the world of fundamentalist wing-nuts with a penchant for flammable things, but I like knowing we also live in a world where people hand out pies after races.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Day 36
12 weeks to Race Day! Am officially registered, so there's no turning back.
Long Run: 65 minutes
The weather is still cool in the mornings, and I prefer these conditions to warmer temperatures as my face tends to get red when I run in the heat. I mean shockingly red. Turkey beet tomato red. The kind of red that makes people in the vicinity nervous about their first-aid skills because they're pretty sure they're going to need to put them into practice.
Looking so dangerously overheated doesn't really bother me, because I actually feel fine at that colour, but I do feel bad for the nervous people. I should probably consider running with an information label: "Runner may appear warmer than is normal or healthy, but don't worry: nothing is going to explode."
Long Run: 65 minutes
The weather is still cool in the mornings, and I prefer these conditions to warmer temperatures as my face tends to get red when I run in the heat. I mean shockingly red. Turkey beet tomato red. The kind of red that makes people in the vicinity nervous about their first-aid skills because they're pretty sure they're going to need to put them into practice.
Looking so dangerously overheated doesn't really bother me, because I actually feel fine at that colour, but I do feel bad for the nervous people. I should probably consider running with an information label: "Runner may appear warmer than is normal or healthy, but don't worry: nothing is going to explode."
Day 33 (April 7th)
Hill Run, 5 repeats.
Was sucking wind like a hiker in the Himalayas who'd been abandoned by her Sherpa.
So what I'm saying is that it was a great run.
Was sucking wind like a hiker in the Himalayas who'd been abandoned by her Sherpa.
So what I'm saying is that it was a great run.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Day 31
20-minutes with 8 speed intervals.
Am becoming a fan of this concentrated training style. As I chirpily informed my parents when I returned, "It's like twice the workout in half the time!" Their cold, sleepy stares over the rims of their coffee cups let me know it was too early for endorphins.
Endorphins aren't why I started running, but they are largely why I stuck with it.
The inception of my running story is neither orginal nor noble: I wanted to lighten up for the role of bridesmaid in a friend's wedding. Then I got hooked on the way it improves life in other ways: steadier moods, excellent sleeps, a warmer embrace of mornings, and an upturn in my overall outlook on life. I would go so far as to say that running makes me a better person.
But I should clarify: my inception as a willing runner began recently, with the wedding goal. The real running history goes back much further, and into a much darker place. Middle School. Early 90s. Back then we were forced to run. Likely, this was for the benefit of our health, but I remember thinking it was simply a way for those in power to defeat our spirits. The broken are always easier to control.
They tried to break us with road runs, which were hot, gravelly, and unending. And the Fun Runs, which never, not once, lived up to their name. And then there were the ill-conceived Milk Runs, in which the incentive was a lukewarm carton of milk at the end of a stinking hot run. The logic behind these runs must have had something to do with building pubescent bone health, but the whole thing seems wrong, like buying shrimp from a roadside van in August.
"Grafton! Laps! Now!"
I can still hear the militant shouts of the PE teacher echoing within the scarred walls of my psyche. Obviously, a great deal of healing has occured over the years for me to be able to run willingly now.
Choosing to run has become an act of subversion, even -- proof of a fortified spirit.
Plus, I get coffee on my running days, and that trumps milk, no question.
Am becoming a fan of this concentrated training style. As I chirpily informed my parents when I returned, "It's like twice the workout in half the time!" Their cold, sleepy stares over the rims of their coffee cups let me know it was too early for endorphins.
Endorphins aren't why I started running, but they are largely why I stuck with it.
The inception of my running story is neither orginal nor noble: I wanted to lighten up for the role of bridesmaid in a friend's wedding. Then I got hooked on the way it improves life in other ways: steadier moods, excellent sleeps, a warmer embrace of mornings, and an upturn in my overall outlook on life. I would go so far as to say that running makes me a better person.
But I should clarify: my inception as a willing runner began recently, with the wedding goal. The real running history goes back much further, and into a much darker place. Middle School. Early 90s. Back then we were forced to run. Likely, this was for the benefit of our health, but I remember thinking it was simply a way for those in power to defeat our spirits. The broken are always easier to control.
They tried to break us with road runs, which were hot, gravelly, and unending. And the Fun Runs, which never, not once, lived up to their name. And then there were the ill-conceived Milk Runs, in which the incentive was a lukewarm carton of milk at the end of a stinking hot run. The logic behind these runs must have had something to do with building pubescent bone health, but the whole thing seems wrong, like buying shrimp from a roadside van in August.
"Grafton! Laps! Now!"
I can still hear the militant shouts of the PE teacher echoing within the scarred walls of my psyche. Obviously, a great deal of healing has occured over the years for me to be able to run willingly now.
Choosing to run has become an act of subversion, even -- proof of a fortified spirit.
Plus, I get coffee on my running days, and that trumps milk, no question.
Day 29 (April 3)
Last week, the process of breaking in the new shoes was more literal than anticipated. Instead of logging in steady runs, I went out every day on walk/runs in an attempt to gradually mold the shoes to my feet. Blisters and bandaids were the result, but I'm getting tougher. Also, am very stubborn. Those shoes were on sale and I never get to buy my shoes on sale. Damn it, they are going to work.
On Sunday, I clocked in a 60-minute run that felt pretty decent throughout.
Also, the trilliums are starting to push up. Hurray, spring!
On Sunday, I clocked in a 60-minute run that felt pretty decent throughout.
Also, the trilliums are starting to push up. Hurray, spring!
Monday, March 28, 2011
Day 23
30-minute run to break in new runners (last pair having distintegrated on every possible level).
In further news, the plum blossoms are finally out at Rathtrevor!
In further news, the plum blossoms are finally out at Rathtrevor!
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Days 17 & 19
20-minute interval run
&
30-minute maintenance run.
Add to this a daily dose of strength training in the form of hard labour. Am helping a friend clear her property, and logs trump free weights any day. I'm thinking of it as farm bootcamp, as this summer is going to be all about the physical work.
&
30-minute maintenance run.
Add to this a daily dose of strength training in the form of hard labour. Am helping a friend clear her property, and logs trump free weights any day. I'm thinking of it as farm bootcamp, as this summer is going to be all about the physical work.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Day 15
* 14 weeks to race day *
Put in yet more unintended effort on today's run: had planned a 55-minute run, in accordance with my 5-minute per week increase on the long runs, but I forgot to check my watch and inadvertantly clocked in a solid 60-minute session.
This may not seem like much of a difference, but in my neophyte running days, I remember counting off the seconds on every run with a hyper-awareness.
I wouldn't say that a zen state is attained when I run now, but having reached a base level of fitness has freed my mind to wander rather than to take stock of painful minutes and physical discomfort.
Put in yet more unintended effort on today's run: had planned a 55-minute run, in accordance with my 5-minute per week increase on the long runs, but I forgot to check my watch and inadvertantly clocked in a solid 60-minute session.
This may not seem like much of a difference, but in my neophyte running days, I remember counting off the seconds on every run with a hyper-awareness.
I wouldn't say that a zen state is attained when I run now, but having reached a base level of fitness has freed my mind to wander rather than to take stock of painful minutes and physical discomfort.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Day 13
Did a 20-minute tempo run this morning, not necessarily by choice.
Had planned a 20-minute maintenance run for today as I've scheduled two long runs this week in an effort to catch up a little. But there was an inordinate number of walkers along the route today, and there's nothing like having a constant audience to make you step up your game. So the planned maintenance pace was replaced by a much-faster-than-normal-yes-I-always-run-this-fast clip that I should be aiming for anyway if I plan to run a sub-2.
Thanks, walkers, for making me feel self-conscious and ashamed of slacking off.
Had planned a 20-minute maintenance run for today as I've scheduled two long runs this week in an effort to catch up a little. But there was an inordinate number of walkers along the route today, and there's nothing like having a constant audience to make you step up your game. So the planned maintenance pace was replaced by a much-faster-than-normal-yes-I-always-run-this-fast clip that I should be aiming for anyway if I plan to run a sub-2.
Thanks, walkers, for making me feel self-conscious and ashamed of slacking off.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Day 11
Have hauled myself back up to 50-minutes of steady running. Today was one of those runs that started weak and ended strong, which is so much better than the other way around. And there was no rain, shockingly. I enjoy whimsical puddle-jumping as much as the next fun-loving runner, but as of late, the puddles have become epic, nameable bodies of water, killing all sense of whimsy in a soggy throttle.
But all that rain is pointing towards a verdant spring, and already, green things are sprouting!
But all that rain is pointing towards a verdant spring, and already, green things are sprouting!
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Day 3
Today I tried proper interval training for the first time:
20-minute run with 8 speed intervals (used hydro poles as markers).
This workout had my heart racing and sweat pouring in record time. Excellent way to get a quick, efficient run in, and a great way to balance the weekly long runs.
Haven't sprinted like that since I was a kid (or maybe since the wild boar chased me in Japan ...).
20-minute run with 8 speed intervals (used hydro poles as markers).
This workout had my heart racing and sweat pouring in record time. Excellent way to get a quick, efficient run in, and a great way to balance the weekly long runs.
Haven't sprinted like that since I was a kid (or maybe since the wild boar chased me in Japan ...).
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Day 1
Back to square one-ish. Illness rendered February a lost month, but today I got back on track with a 45-minute run through Rathtrevor with my brother, Constable J. His legs were weak from a manly weight session the day before but his lungs were strong, and my legs were strong after resting for 3 weeks but my lungs were weak like a proper convalescent's, so it made for a pretty even run.
Felt extraordinarily good to get back out there. Also, my mom gave me shiny new running duds for my b-day, so now, obviously, I will be running much faster.
Sub-2 half-marathon, here I come, 16 weeks and counting.
Felt extraordinarily good to get back out there. Also, my mom gave me shiny new running duds for my b-day, so now, obviously, I will be running much faster.
Sub-2 half-marathon, here I come, 16 weeks and counting.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Day 37
Headcold got me good. Sleeping, tea-drinking, broth-sipping, mouth-breathing, that's been my week. So wretched was I that it felt like I'd caught a man-cold:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VbmbMSrsZVQ&feature=player_detailpage
Poor little bunny.
There are times when running while sick can shake off the germs and rev up the immune system. That hasn't been an option this week, as climbing the stairs to my quarters leaves me feeling breathless and a little Victorian; smelling salts should be on hand. So while I recover my strength like Heidi's Clara, I will need to reconsider my running plans. Chances are I could still run the May half-marathon in the same time that I ran October's race, but the goal is to run a sub-2, and I don't see that happening now. There is another race on June 26th, which would give me an extra 8 weeks of training. Methinks yes to this.
At the suggestion of my scholar friend, Lady K, I'm off to procure some Madeira wine, which works wonders for all those British literary invalids of old, and is so much more elegant than Robitussin.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VbmbMSrsZVQ&feature=player_detailpage
Poor little bunny.
There are times when running while sick can shake off the germs and rev up the immune system. That hasn't been an option this week, as climbing the stairs to my quarters leaves me feeling breathless and a little Victorian; smelling salts should be on hand. So while I recover my strength like Heidi's Clara, I will need to reconsider my running plans. Chances are I could still run the May half-marathon in the same time that I ran October's race, but the goal is to run a sub-2, and I don't see that happening now. There is another race on June 26th, which would give me an extra 8 weeks of training. Methinks yes to this.
At the suggestion of my scholar friend, Lady K, I'm off to procure some Madeira wine, which works wonders for all those British literary invalids of old, and is so much more elegant than Robitussin.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Day 28
Easy 30-minute run. Monday's long run tuckered me out a bit, so it was good to just get out there and loosen up today. No rain, no puddles, no wind. Kind of perfect.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Day 26
If ever there was a day to skip a run, today was it. Cozied up in bed this morning, I heard the rain and wind before I opened my eyes. When I pulled up the shades, a tempest of a day greeted me. Seagulls were getting tossed. The ocean was whitecapping. The rain was coming in sideways on a sharp northerly wind.
I went back to bed and watched it all from my warm, dry nest.
But then I saw them. Other runners. Getting their runs done. And they all looked significantly older than me. And significantly fitter.
And so this time, it was less the shame of not reporting a run than the competitive edge supplied by indefatigable fellow runners that got me out there:
70 minutes of mixed trail and road running, with lots of puddle-jumping, and towards the end, a little puddle- ploughing.
And it was invigorating, in a pelting, biting sort of way.
Thanks, fellow runners, you crazy beautiful people.
I went back to bed and watched it all from my warm, dry nest.
But then I saw them. Other runners. Getting their runs done. And they all looked significantly older than me. And significantly fitter.
And so this time, it was less the shame of not reporting a run than the competitive edge supplied by indefatigable fellow runners that got me out there:
70 minutes of mixed trail and road running, with lots of puddle-jumping, and towards the end, a little puddle- ploughing.
And it was invigorating, in a pelting, biting sort of way.
Thanks, fellow runners, you crazy beautiful people.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Day 22
The Plan: 40-minute run with speed intervals
The Reality: 40-minute run
Today was one of those extra-gravity days. Often, the reasons behind a good or not-so-good run have no rhyme. Sometimes, eating well, sleeping well, and not drinking are scant insurance against sucking wind and leaden feet. And other times, a dinner of chips and wine and a four-hour sleep on an air mattress can lead to running like a deer the next morning.
It's all part of the wonder and the mystery that is running.
The Reality: 40-minute run
Today was one of those extra-gravity days. Often, the reasons behind a good or not-so-good run have no rhyme. Sometimes, eating well, sleeping well, and not drinking are scant insurance against sucking wind and leaden feet. And other times, a dinner of chips and wine and a four-hour sleep on an air mattress can lead to running like a deer the next morning.
It's all part of the wonder and the mystery that is running.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Day 20
Hill Run
This morning, I got in 5 repeats of the Rathtrevor Hill. This hill is part of the road leading into Rathtrevor Park. Driving up or down said hill, you might think, "No big deal." But it becomes more impressive when you run repeats on it, trust me. At my steady tortoise pace, it takes me about 2 minutes to run up this hill, which is a recommended hill length in standard training programs.
Many runners loathe the hill portion of their training regimens. I kind of love the hills. Maybe not in the actual moment, but right afterwards, when I'm running the straight stretch home. Hills make my lungs and legs feel awesome and I'm peppy for the rest of the day (not a general state of being for me).
The plan is to include one hill run every 2 weeks until the race, raising the bar by one repeat each time. This means I should build up to 10 hill repeats before the race.
Kind of a weird thing to look forward to, I know, but this whole running thing has been a bit of a surprise all round.
"We're trying this new fad called, uh, 'jogging'. I believe it's 'jogging', or 'yawging', it might be a soft j, I'm not sure. Apparently you just run for an extended period of time. It's supposed to be wild."
- Ron Burgundy
This morning, I got in 5 repeats of the Rathtrevor Hill. This hill is part of the road leading into Rathtrevor Park. Driving up or down said hill, you might think, "No big deal." But it becomes more impressive when you run repeats on it, trust me. At my steady tortoise pace, it takes me about 2 minutes to run up this hill, which is a recommended hill length in standard training programs.
Many runners loathe the hill portion of their training regimens. I kind of love the hills. Maybe not in the actual moment, but right afterwards, when I'm running the straight stretch home. Hills make my lungs and legs feel awesome and I'm peppy for the rest of the day (not a general state of being for me).
The plan is to include one hill run every 2 weeks until the race, raising the bar by one repeat each time. This means I should build up to 10 hill repeats before the race.
Kind of a weird thing to look forward to, I know, but this whole running thing has been a bit of a surprise all round.
"We're trying this new fad called, uh, 'jogging'. I believe it's 'jogging', or 'yawging', it might be a soft j, I'm not sure. Apparently you just run for an extended period of time. It's supposed to be wild."
- Ron Burgundy
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Day 18
12 Weeks to the Race!
Got back on track this morning with a 65-minute run through Rathtrevor. Last week's sloth gave me an unsprightly step today and proved how quickly the body can be undone. But the flip side is that it won't take too long for things to get better.
Got back on track this morning with a 65-minute run through Rathtrevor. Last week's sloth gave me an unsprightly step today and proved how quickly the body can be undone. But the flip side is that it won't take too long for things to get better.
Post-Vancouver Stock-Taking
Runs Accomplished: 0
Nutrition High-point: Kale and quinoa dinner courtesy of Holly. This meal is so nutritionally superior it's practically magic. But not magic enough to negate the following:
Nutrition Low-point: Feast of cupcakes. Or maybe it was the fries and beer. Really, there are so many instances to choose from. Basically, I ate the opposite of how a person concerned with her health would eat. I ate predominantly from the top of the food pyramid. I ate like a 5 year-old at Disneyland.
Number of Times I Asked Myself, "What the hell, Janet?": Daily, repeatedly.
How I Spent My Time: Here's where I feel no shame. I spent quality time in a park with a favourite three year-old, quality time in a pub with a favourite friend, and quality time enjoying the company of more favourite friends watching back-to-back episodes of Community (a marathon-like undertaking that requires endurance, focus, training and sustenance).
It was a great week of catching up with friends and taking a break from fretting about the future. I did get sick towards the end, which is my official reason for bailing on training, but I need to work on making the running non-negotiable. Real runners don't let the sniffles stop them. I want to be a real runner.
Nutrition High-point: Kale and quinoa dinner courtesy of Holly. This meal is so nutritionally superior it's practically magic. But not magic enough to negate the following:
Nutrition Low-point: Feast of cupcakes. Or maybe it was the fries and beer. Really, there are so many instances to choose from. Basically, I ate the opposite of how a person concerned with her health would eat. I ate predominantly from the top of the food pyramid. I ate like a 5 year-old at Disneyland.
Number of Times I Asked Myself, "What the hell, Janet?": Daily, repeatedly.
How I Spent My Time: Here's where I feel no shame. I spent quality time in a park with a favourite three year-old, quality time in a pub with a favourite friend, and quality time enjoying the company of more favourite friends watching back-to-back episodes of Community (a marathon-like undertaking that requires endurance, focus, training and sustenance).
It was a great week of catching up with friends and taking a break from fretting about the future. I did get sick towards the end, which is my official reason for bailing on training, but I need to work on making the running non-negotiable. Real runners don't let the sniffles stop them. I want to be a real runner.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Day 13
3 months to the race.
Location: Vancouver. Get to play big-city gal this week as a very kind friend has lent me her apartment while she's vacationing in tropical climes.
Result: All the shifting of geographies and socializing of late has been very fun, but not super conducive to training. I got out for a good run in Black Creek last week, and I plan on doing two Jericho Beach runs while I'm here, but strength training and nutrition? Sketchy at best. This week, I blame location: going anywhere right now requires tripping over (and into) a cafe called Death by Chocolate.
It's out of my hands.
Location: Vancouver. Get to play big-city gal this week as a very kind friend has lent me her apartment while she's vacationing in tropical climes.
Result: All the shifting of geographies and socializing of late has been very fun, but not super conducive to training. I got out for a good run in Black Creek last week, and I plan on doing two Jericho Beach runs while I'm here, but strength training and nutrition? Sketchy at best. This week, I blame location: going anywhere right now requires tripping over (and into) a cafe called Death by Chocolate.
It's out of my hands.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Day 11
13 weeks to the race.
Todays's run = 60 minutes in Rathtrevor, covering between 9-10k.
If not for this blog, I would have stayed under the covers this morning until bedsores set in. But the thought of having to report a missed run got me out the door. Not joyfully, and with a total lack of grace, but I got 'er done.
Thanks, blog. Thanks, blog readers.
Todays's run = 60 minutes in Rathtrevor, covering between 9-10k.
If not for this blog, I would have stayed under the covers this morning until bedsores set in. But the thought of having to report a missed run got me out the door. Not joyfully, and with a total lack of grace, but I got 'er done.
Thanks, blog. Thanks, blog readers.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Day 8
Accomplished:
50-minute road run in Black Creek. Marks my longest run in over a month, and longest run on concrete since the October half-marathon.
Result:
The deep peace that only physical exertion and a slight sense of superiority over non-runners can bring, followed by intense napping.
(Non-runners, don't be too offended. You'll get the last laugh when I'm rehabilitating from hip and/or knee replacement surgery at 45).
50-minute road run in Black Creek. Marks my longest run in over a month, and longest run on concrete since the October half-marathon.
Result:
The deep peace that only physical exertion and a slight sense of superiority over non-runners can bring, followed by intense napping.
(Non-runners, don't be too offended. You'll get the last laugh when I'm rehabilitating from hip and/or knee replacement surgery at 45).
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Day 7
Location:
Black Creek, halfway between Courtenay and Campbell River
Activity Level:
1km stroll led by two-year-old who was more interested in kicking old lumps of snow than in walking.
Nutrition:
Wine. Lots of wine.
It seems all of yesterday's credit was cashed in today.
Black Creek, halfway between Courtenay and Campbell River
Activity Level:
1km stroll led by two-year-old who was more interested in kicking old lumps of snow than in walking.
Nutrition:
Wine. Lots of wine.
It seems all of yesterday's credit was cashed in today.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Day 6
"All that we see or seem
Is but a dream within a dream."
- Edgar Allan Poe
Just before waking up this morning, I had a dream that I was asleep, having a dream. So according to Poe, I was having a dream within a dream while existing in a dream within a dream. Suddenly, Inception makes sense. Considering the philosophical implications of Poe's poem, I think I deserve extra credit for hauling myself out of such a metaphysical quagmire and accomplishing a 40-minute trail run.
Plus, I went for a lovely afternoon walk at Englishman River Falls with a friend, and while it was neither fast nor strenuous, I'm thinking even more extra credit is in order.
I'm going to bank it all up for a free day somewhere down the line, on a morning when I'm not up to battling the bogginess.
Is but a dream within a dream."
- Edgar Allan Poe
Just before waking up this morning, I had a dream that I was asleep, having a dream. So according to Poe, I was having a dream within a dream while existing in a dream within a dream. Suddenly, Inception makes sense. Considering the philosophical implications of Poe's poem, I think I deserve extra credit for hauling myself out of such a metaphysical quagmire and accomplishing a 40-minute trail run.
Plus, I went for a lovely afternoon walk at Englishman River Falls with a friend, and while it was neither fast nor strenuous, I'm thinking even more extra credit is in order.
I'm going to bank it all up for a free day somewhere down the line, on a morning when I'm not up to battling the bogginess.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Day 5
Strength-training: These early days of strength training are going to be pretty standard. Aiming for consistency and task-completion is more important at this stage than impressive results. (Those will come later). Today was just one set of exercises such as flys, dumbbell rows, and push-ups.
Nutrition: I'm a fan of real food versus sports drinks, gels, bars, etc. The first time I tried a gel was during the Victoria half-marathon. At the 13k mark station, I gagged down half of a free "banana" gel and am still getting flashbacks of the ghastly sweet pseudo-banana essence. I think being disgusted actually cost me energy.
I used to prefer running on an empty stomach, mostly because I was worried about getting sick to my stomach. Then last year while I was staying at a friend's, we had a late brunch, chit-chatted for an hour or so, and then went out for an 11k trail run. Not only was I shocked to find that eating before running doesn't automatically lead to me honking in a ditch, but also that I had ridiculous amounts of energy to spare.
So now, I always ingest something before a run, whether it be a smoothie or just a banana (real, not gel-packed candy goo). A lot of runners swear by classic pre-race meals like pasta and other high-carb foods. Light veggie-based pasta the night before a race has worked for me, but pasta in the morning just reminds me of Michael Scott and the 5k Run for Rabies.
Nutrition: I'm a fan of real food versus sports drinks, gels, bars, etc. The first time I tried a gel was during the Victoria half-marathon. At the 13k mark station, I gagged down half of a free "banana" gel and am still getting flashbacks of the ghastly sweet pseudo-banana essence. I think being disgusted actually cost me energy.
I used to prefer running on an empty stomach, mostly because I was worried about getting sick to my stomach. Then last year while I was staying at a friend's, we had a late brunch, chit-chatted for an hour or so, and then went out for an 11k trail run. Not only was I shocked to find that eating before running doesn't automatically lead to me honking in a ditch, but also that I had ridiculous amounts of energy to spare.
So now, I always ingest something before a run, whether it be a smoothie or just a banana (real, not gel-packed candy goo). A lot of runners swear by classic pre-race meals like pasta and other high-carb foods. Light veggie-based pasta the night before a race has worked for me, but pasta in the morning just reminds me of Michael Scott and the 5k Run for Rabies.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Day 4
14 Weeks Until the Race
This won't be my first half-marathon. That took place last year, on the numerically excellent 10/10/10 in Victoria. I ran alone but had a gold-star cheering team snapping pics, boosting morale, and treating me to breakfast afterwards.
The goal for that race was to not die. Goal met. Plus, I got a medal. All finishers did, regardless of time, but still, I got a medal. Finished with a chip-time of 2:12, which respectably placed me smack in the middle of my age group.
For this next race, I'm aiming for a sub-2 race. Yes, that's right, I use running lingo now. Considering that my training for the first race was a little spotty and erratic, particularly towards the end, I think I have a good chance of reaching this new goal.
Today's Run: 30 minutes through Rathtrevor Park.
I never grow tired of this place, even when it's trails are flooded and the wind is steely. I've run there in every season and in all kinds of weather:
- muddy spring runs along trillium and daffodil trails
- 6am summer runs to beat the heat and the bulk of camping folk, who at that time are either still sleeping or making the woods smell wonderfully coffee-ish and bacon-y
- glowing fall runs when it's possible to see the sunrise without getting out of bed before 7am
- and most recently, crunchy winter runs where the contrast of red roseships against a backdrop of blue sky and white snow almost stopped me in my tracks
There have also been remarkable encounters with eagles, fearless deer, flyers of kites, a Barn owl, and a startled park worker manning a leaf blower.
Running Rathrevor never feels like work, even on the gray days.
This won't be my first half-marathon. That took place last year, on the numerically excellent 10/10/10 in Victoria. I ran alone but had a gold-star cheering team snapping pics, boosting morale, and treating me to breakfast afterwards.
The goal for that race was to not die. Goal met. Plus, I got a medal. All finishers did, regardless of time, but still, I got a medal. Finished with a chip-time of 2:12, which respectably placed me smack in the middle of my age group.
For this next race, I'm aiming for a sub-2 race. Yes, that's right, I use running lingo now. Considering that my training for the first race was a little spotty and erratic, particularly towards the end, I think I have a good chance of reaching this new goal.
Today's Run: 30 minutes through Rathtrevor Park.
I never grow tired of this place, even when it's trails are flooded and the wind is steely. I've run there in every season and in all kinds of weather:
- muddy spring runs along trillium and daffodil trails
- 6am summer runs to beat the heat and the bulk of camping folk, who at that time are either still sleeping or making the woods smell wonderfully coffee-ish and bacon-y
- glowing fall runs when it's possible to see the sunrise without getting out of bed before 7am
- and most recently, crunchy winter runs where the contrast of red roseships against a backdrop of blue sky and white snow almost stopped me in my tracks
There have also been remarkable encounters with eagles, fearless deer, flyers of kites, a Barn owl, and a startled park worker manning a leaf blower.
Running Rathrevor never feels like work, even on the gray days.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Day 3
Strength Assessment:
Did the basics to get a reference point. It hurt.
Pushups: 15 regular. Nearly popped vessel in eye from strain. However, managed to avoid faceplant.
Situps: 40
Lunges: 12, very shaky
Squats: see above
Plank: 1 minute
Verdict: Plenty of room for work. A lot of the strength training programs I've been looking at recommend adding sets and weights and all kinds of fun stuff. So, I have something to work toward and look forward to: I plan on being superhero strong.
Did the basics to get a reference point. It hurt.
Pushups: 15 regular. Nearly popped vessel in eye from strain. However, managed to avoid faceplant.
Situps: 40
Lunges: 12, very shaky
Squats: see above
Plank: 1 minute
Verdict: Plenty of room for work. A lot of the strength training programs I've been looking at recommend adding sets and weights and all kinds of fun stuff. So, I have something to work toward and look forward to: I plan on being superhero strong.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Day 2
Hmm. I can see where the implied full disclosure component of this project is going to be both painful and effective, as I'm writing this in shame-tinted dismay.
MyRedBike, you wondered how the proposed training pace could possibly be maintained? Well, this was a house pants day, without the house pants. No, I didn't wander the house nude, but I did achieve a level of sloth reserved for a day spent in pajama bottoms.
Activity level: Went to matinee
Nutrition: Are Twizzlers a source of anything?
Goal: Am aiming for 6 training days per week, giving me one rest day. Clearly, this was the rest day. I'm sure lots of athletes take a break on Day 2.
MyRedBike, you wondered how the proposed training pace could possibly be maintained? Well, this was a house pants day, without the house pants. No, I didn't wander the house nude, but I did achieve a level of sloth reserved for a day spent in pajama bottoms.
Activity level: Went to matinee
Nutrition: Are Twizzlers a source of anything?
Goal: Am aiming for 6 training days per week, giving me one rest day. Clearly, this was the rest day. I'm sure lots of athletes take a break on Day 2.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Day 1
Goal: 20 minute run. Have to start somewhere. Also, psychologically it's more important that I meet goals in the beginning rather than actually achieve anything.
Met or missed? Met.
Fitness Startpoint: a few degrees shy of wheezy and pudgy, but about 180 degrees from awesome.
Training Schedule: Run every other day. Weight train on off days. For the first 11 days, increase each run by 10 minutes until I get back to the pre-Christmas basepoint of 10k in 60 minutes.
Nutrition Guidelines: any style of eating other than Christmas-style. Just finished a 2-week, post-holiday cleanse that consisted of no wheat, dairy, sugar, caffeine, or alcohol, yet I don't feel as glowy as you might expect after such Spartan efforts. Either they were too stringent and joyless, or my body is still in shock from not being allowed to have chocolate for breakfast and wine at 2pm.
Met or missed? Met.
Fitness Startpoint: a few degrees shy of wheezy and pudgy, but about 180 degrees from awesome.
Training Schedule: Run every other day. Weight train on off days. For the first 11 days, increase each run by 10 minutes until I get back to the pre-Christmas basepoint of 10k in 60 minutes.
Nutrition Guidelines: any style of eating other than Christmas-style. Just finished a 2-week, post-holiday cleanse that consisted of no wheat, dairy, sugar, caffeine, or alcohol, yet I don't feel as glowy as you might expect after such Spartan efforts. Either they were too stringent and joyless, or my body is still in shock from not being allowed to have chocolate for breakfast and wine at 2pm.
100 Days of Training
The event: Vancouver Half-Marathon
When: May 1st, 2011
Countdown: 100 days
Objective: Personal accountability in a public forum. As I give the rundown on 100 days of training, feel free to encourage, heckle, bait. Also, tips are welcome. The advice kind. The other kind would be welcome, too, except I don't know how I'd justify asking for them.
When: May 1st, 2011
Countdown: 100 days
Objective: Personal accountability in a public forum. As I give the rundown on 100 days of training, feel free to encourage, heckle, bait. Also, tips are welcome. The advice kind. The other kind would be welcome, too, except I don't know how I'd justify asking for them.
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