Ran a 10k in June (2 Viewers)

[sho nuff]

Need some cold weather gear recommendations. I live in Missouri and the temperature is in the 30's right now for the most part. What do you guys suggest as a base layer, coat, pants etc. This is the first winter I am really going to try to run outdoors. Usually take it inside. Thanks for advice.

My go to outfit in the low 30's is running tights and a NIKE pro combat turtle neck shirt. It would have to be well below 20 before I'd consider pants. As the temp drops, up top I add a wool short sleeve base layer. Last resort would be a third layer light running jacket if their might be snow. The tights are sold in different weights/thicknesses. If that does cut it, I skip the run and stay indoors.

Well...give an example of today for me.27 when I left the house (windchill at 18*).Running tights and pants over them (very thin Nike pants I have and love...really wore them more to have the pockets), compression tank top (this seems to work well for me to keep my core warm), long sleeve tech shirt. Then my old high school track pull over to block the wind...about took it off towards the end of the run as I warmed up.Well...then my dri-fit head band to cover the ears and gloves.Never felt cold...actually a bit warm at the end with the pull over on.

Speaking of cold weather gear, I'm sure I'll be laughed at by the Mid Western guys...Typical Jackson MS morning in the winter is 20-30. Does anyone know how East Bay brand shirts/pants compare to Under Armour? Difficult to spend $50 on an Under Armour shirt when the East Bay one of the same material is $20. Same goes for the compression pants....I've come to the conclusion I'd rather spend more for quality's sake, but is there much of a difference?

I would say the majority of my stuff is Nike (usually their dri fit stuff is about $20 at ##### on sale and I buy it then...or find it at a Ross/Marshalls/TJ Maxx type of store).I have a few things of the Target C9 stuff...and I like the tech gear stuff from Kohls pretty well too...and a few things from Fila at Kohls that I like.Id say if you have some and like it...go ahead and load up on the cheap.

 

[SteelCurtain]

Prospois - CONGRATULATIONS! Way to go! I'm sure you are feeling it today. Just take it easy and keep your body moving so it doesn't have time to stiffen up.

IK -- nice run by your wife. 4:09 is nothing to sneeze at!

 

[sports_fan]

Great job Prospois. Finishing puts you in elite company. You're miles ahead of where I'm at.

 

[BassNBrew]

Need some cold weather gear recommendations. I live in Missouri and the temperature is in the 30's right now for the most part. What do you guys suggest as a base layer, coat, pants etc. This is the first winter I am really going to try to run outdoors. Usually take it inside. Thanks for advice.

My go to outfit in the low 30's is running tights and a NIKE pro combat turtle neck shirt. It would have to be well below 20 before I'd consider pants. As the temp drops, up top I add a wool short sleeve base layer. Last resort would be a third layer light running jacket if their might be snow. The tights are sold in different weights/thicknesses. If that does cut it, I skip the run and stay indoors.

Well...give an example of today for me.27 when I left the house (windchill at 18*).Running tights and pants over them (very thin Nike pants I have and love...really wore them more to have the pockets), compression tank top (this seems to work well for me to keep my core warm), long sleeve tech shirt. Then my old high school track pull over to block the wind...about took it off towards the end of the run as I warmed up.Well...then my dri-fit head band to cover the ears and gloves.Never felt cold...actually a bit warm at the end with the pull over on.

Speaking of cold weather gear, I'm sure I'll be laughed at by the Mid Western guys...Typical Jackson MS morning in the winter is 20-30. Does anyone know how East Bay brand shirts/pants compare to Under Armour? Difficult to spend $50 on an Under Armour shirt when the East Bay one of the same material is $20. Same goes for the compression pants....I've come to the conclusion I'd rather spend more for quality's sake, but is there much of a difference?

I don't think there's much difference. Ever heard of Starter brand at Walmart? When I was a kid, the coolest thing to have was a Starter jacket. Now it's the most uncool thing you can be wearing.

 

[Sand]

When I was a kid, the coolest thing to have was a Starter Members Only jacket.

Fixed.

 

[2Young2BBald]

When I was a kid, the coolest thing to have was a Starter Members Only jacket.

Fixed.

Loved my gray one back i the 80s. Too bad the kids here will have no idea what you are talking about. Tri-Man, was it bear skins or beaver pelts back in your day?

 

[Ned]

When I was a kid, the coolest thing to have was a Starter Members Only jacket.

Fixed.

Loved my gray one back i the 80s. Too bad the kids here will have no idea what you are talking about. Tri-Man, was it bear skins or beaver pelts back in your day?

 

[tri-man 47]

When I was a kid, the coolest thing to have was a Starter Members Only jacket.

Fixed.

Loved my gray one back i the 80s. Too bad the kids here will have no idea what you are talking about. Tri-Man, was it bear skins or beaver pelts back in your day?

I was going to say ...in my day it was a double-lined toga. Sooo comfortable.

 

[walnutz]

I think this is what i am going t go with for my "cold" runs--

I own a cold gear UA mock turtle neck shirt. T-shirt over that. Yet to be purchased running tights. Will probably go under armor on these. I don't like the stitching on the Nike ones. Will put a pair of shorts on over those because I don't want to scare anyone.

I am debating a jacket. I like some of the Nike thermal ones. Not sure it is cold enough yet for one of those. Saw some New Balance ear covers as well.

Not sure if you can tell or not but I hat the cold!

 

[prosopis]

Marathon report:

I woke up at 3:00am to get at the bus pick up by 4:40am. I ate bagel/peanut butter had cup of coffee which got the bowels moving before I left. That is a big deal for me so I was happy and felt the day was starting perfect. I had a nice 35 year old blonde sit next to me on the bus and we had good conversation on the bus ride. She was from the Phoenix area and was there to BQ. I hope she got it. The bus ride was at least 30 mins and as nice as the young lady was I got tired of listening to her and I was glad when we got there.

There were patches of snow on the ground but it did not feel to cold. I got in line for the bathroom and that went well. I saw people with garbage bags on and I also saw people with the disposable OR gowns on. I will definitely go that route next time as I have access to those and they are nice. I wish I had thought of it. There was quite a wait for the start of the race. I guess so all the buses could get there. It is a pretty tight area where the race starts. I saw the 4:30 and 5:00 pace group and I got in between them. I was really just wanting to finish but in the back of my mind I wanted to do this in 4:30 and I felt I had a shot at it. I certainly thought I could come in before the 5:00 pace group.

Race starts and I had a pretty good attack plan which Tri-man had emailed me after seeing the map.

Mile 1(10:57) through mile 2(11:09) I was concentrating on just going slow, light foot falls, short stride, trying not to geek out. I felt I did these two miles well and I was happy.

Mile 3 (10:53) through mile 4 (11:27) I am still trying to go slow but I am also looking at heart rate and speed. I have to say I am surprised at the pace here. I thought it was faster and I was purposely trying to slow down. Seemed like every time I looked at the garmin I saw a sub 10:00 pace. This becomes a recurring theme.

Miles 5- 10 ( 10:39,10:06, 10:14,11:22,10:03,10:19) This is where I am thinking I am making up time and if I play it right I can catch the 4:30 pace group. At mile 6 I notice a blister forming on my right foot. I did what you are never supposed to do and I wore some new socks that I never trained in. I don’t know if the blister is from that or the constant down hill of this race. Any way I just ignore it and keep going. I am feeling really good at mile 10 and I am surprised I have not caught the 4:30 pace group. I know the 5:00 pace group is long in my rear view.

I was really feeling good here and if the race ended at mile 11-13 I would be ecstatic but we all know it does not end there.

Miles 11-13 (11:22,13:09,12:54) Is the beginning of things going south. At this point we have some hills to climb. I have just run 5 miles down hill and I hit these things. It is an out and back so I am hoping to see the 4:30 pace group in the loop. At one point I see the 3:40 pace group so I get excited thinking I have to be close to the 4:30 guy. I do some walking on hills here.

Miles 14-19 (12:54,11:08,13:00,12:2816:07) I am now really hurting. I am nauseous,the blister is unbearable, headache, and regardless of how much I drink I have cotton mouth. The first inklings of I cant do this enter my mind. This is where I was surprised by the emotions. I came close to having a mental crying breakdown. All I could think of was how much I worked and this is what I have to show for it. I was really working myself up here. The girl I talked to on the bus told me she dropped out of one marathon at mile 20. At the time I was thinking WTF drops out at mile 20? I am now getting it. At some point here I am passed by the 5:00 pace group. I have still never seen the 4:30 guy. During this time I am also thinking of every one in this thread. Wondering how the #### some of you do this not only well but exceed? I just keep plugging away. I will say during this time I see a girl remove her shirt and run in a sports bra which was fabulous.

Miles 20-26 (16:07,14:11,14:50,14:59,15:48,16:17,17:15) I am done. When I try to run my calves are cramping and I can feel the muscles twitching. It was pretty painful. I am walking more then running and each step is excruciating. I am thinking I will never do this again. I come to one water stop staffed by young girls in their 20s or maybe even high school? They were dressed nice and moving in a good way. They looked like young strippers working on moves. They were talking all the guys up and one of them says “your looking sexy Prosopis” Normally this would put a little pick me up in my step but not this time. I wanted to drown her in the water jug. I gave her a smile and moved on. During this time I am seriously concerned I wont make the cut off time. A medic on a bike asks if I am ok and I give him the thumbs up.

The End: I am looking forward to the pictures as I was trying to make it look like I was having fun and still running. I had another emotional wave as I realized I had made it. Getting the medal was awesome. I don’t know how many people were behind me but I am sure I was in the last wave.

I was eating gels every 4 miles and I think that may have made me nauseous. I don’t have an answer to the cotton mouth. I also ate a cliff crunch bar some where around mile 22 which was horrible. On the shuttle ride to my car I heard a guy say the pacer for the 4:30 group dropped out which is why I never caught up to or saw them. I met a guy from marathon maniacs which sounds freaking insane. I could see Grue doing something like that. I have a huge blister on my left foot. It covers the three middle toe area. I think my optimum race length is the half marathon. I think I can do it, its challenging, and I have a reasonable chance of improving. Despite my whining, crying, and moaning I will do another marathon. I did like it. I do think I would try another training program. Thanks to every one in here. You guys are a true inspiration and fantastic trainers. Special thanks to Tri Man who talked me through all of last week.

I got a massage today and I am real sore. The final times are in and I was 5:34:16 avg pace 12:50. I have to say I am disappointed with that but at the same time I enjoyed telling people I ran a marathon . The avg bloke at work can not believe anyone can go 26.2 miles regardless of times. I am going to enjoy my recovery plan and look for a half in the future.

 

[Ned]

I ate bagel/peanut butter had cup of coffee

Great choice!

At mile 6 I notice a blister forming on my right foot. I did what you are never supposed to do and I wore some new socks that I never trained in.

I put body glide on the bottoms of my feet for my long runs. Give it a shot next time. I haven't had a single blister since doing this. :knockonwood:

They looked like young strippers working on moves. They were talking all the guys up and one of them says “your looking sexy Prosopis” Normally this would put a little pick me up in my step but not this time. I wanted to drown her in the water jug.

The avg bloke at work can not believe anyone can go 26.2 miles regardless of times.

You nailed it right there, GB. Be proud of what you accomplished on Sunday regardless of time. It took me a while to get over missing an arbitrary time goal. It'll sink in over the coming days.Congrats again!!

 

[BassNBrew]

Marathon report:I woke up at 3:00am to get at the bus pick up by 4:40am. I ate bagel/peanut butter had cup of coffee which got the bowels moving before I left. That is a big deal for me so I was happy and felt the day was starting perfect. I had a nice 35 year old blonde sit next to me on the bus and we had good conversation on the bus ride. She was from the Phoenix area and was there to BQ. I hope she got it. The bus ride was at least 30 mins and as nice as the young lady was I got tired of listening to her and I was glad when we got there.There were patches of snow on the ground but it did not feel to cold. I got in line for the bathroom and that went well. I saw people with garbage bags on and I also saw people with the disposable OR gowns on. I will definitely go that route next time as I have access to those and they are nice. I wish I had thought of it. There was quite a wait for the start of the race. I guess so all the buses could get there. It is a pretty tight area where the race starts. I saw the 4:30 and 5:00 pace group and I got in between them. I was really just wanting to finish but in the back of my mind I wanted to do this in 4:30 and I felt I had a shot at it. I certainly thought I could come in before the 5:00 pace group.Race starts and I had a pretty good attack plan which Tri-man had emailed me after seeing the map.Mile 1(10:57) through mile 2(11:09) I was concentrating on just going slow, light foot falls, short stride, trying not to geek out. I felt I did these two miles well and I was happy.Mile 3 (10:53) through mile 4 (11:27) I am still trying to go slow but I am also looking at heart rate and speed. I have to say I am surprised at the pace here. I thought it was faster and I was purposely trying to slow down. Seemed like every time I looked at the garmin I saw a sub 10:00 pace. This becomes a recurring theme.Miles 5- 10 ( 10:39,10:06, 10:14,11:22,10:03,10:19) This is where I am thinking I am making up time and if I play it right I can catch the 4:30 pace group. At mile 6 I notice a blister forming on my right foot. I did what you are never supposed to do and I wore some new socks that I never trained in. I don’t know if the blister is from that or the constant down hill of this race. Any way I just ignore it and keep going. I am feeling really good at mile 10 and I am surprised I have not caught the 4:30 pace group. I know the 5:00 pace group is long in my rear view.I was really feeling good here and if the race ended at mile 11-13 I would be ecstatic but we all know it does not end there.Miles 11-13 (11:22,13:09,12:54) Is the beginning of things going south. At this point we have some hills to climb. I have just run 5 miles down hill and I hit these things. It is an out and back so I am hoping to see the 4:30 pace group in the loop. At one point I see the 3:40 pace group so I get excited thinking I have to be close to the 4:30 guy. I do some walking on hills here.Miles 14-19 (12:54,11:08,13:00,12:2816:07) I am now really hurting. I am nauseous,the blister is unbearable, headache, and regardless of how much I drink I have cotton mouth. The first inklings of I cant do this enter my mind. This is where I was surprised by the emotions. I came close to having a mental crying breakdown. All I could think of was how much I worked and this is what I have to show for it. I was really working myself up here. The girl I talked to on the bus told me she dropped out of one marathon at mile 20. At the time I was thinking WTF drops out at mile 20? I am now getting it. At some point here I am passed by the 5:00 pace group. I have still never seen the 4:30 guy. During this time I am also thinking of every one in this thread. Wondering how the #### some of you do this not only well but exceed? I just keep plugging away. I will say during this time I see a girl remove her shirt and run in a sports bra which was fabulous.Miles 20-26 (16:07,14:11,14:50,14:59,15:48,16:17,17:15) I am done. When I try to run my calves are cramping and I can feel the muscles twitching. It was pretty painful. I am walking more then running and each step is excruciating. I am thinking I will never do this again. I come to one water stop staffed by young girls in their 20s or maybe even high school? They were dressed nice and moving in a good way. They looked like young strippers working on moves. They were talking all the guys up and one of them says “your looking sexy Prosopis” Normally this would put a little pick me up in my step but not this time. I wanted to drown her in the water jug. I gave her a smile and moved on. During this time I am seriously concerned I wont make the cut off time. A medic on a bike asks if I am ok and I give him the thumbs up.The End: I am looking forward to the pictures as I was trying to make it look like I was having fun and still running. I had another emotional wave as I realized I had made it. Getting the medal was awesome. I don’t know how many people were behind me but I am sure I was in the last wave.I was eating gels every 4 miles and I think that may have made me nauseous. I don’t have an answer to the cotton mouth. I also ate a cliff crunch bar some where around mile 22 which was horrible. On the shuttle ride to my car I heard a guy say the pacer for the 4:30 group dropped out which is why I never caught up to or saw them. I met a guy from marathon maniacs which sounds freaking insane. I could see Grue doing something like that. I have a huge blister on my left foot. It covers the three middle toe area. I think my optimum race length is the half marathon. I think I can do it, its challenging, and I have a reasonable chance of improving. Despite my whining, crying, and moaning I will do another marathon. I did like it. I do think I would try another training program. Thanks to every one in here. You guys are a true inspiration and fantastic trainers. Special thanks to Tri Man who talked me through all of last week. I got a massage today and I am real sore. The final times are in and I was 5:34:16 avg pace 12:50. I have to say I am disappointed with that but at the same time I enjoyed telling people I ran a marathon . The avg bloke at work can not believe anyone can go 26.2 miles regardless of times. I am going to enjoy my recovery plan and look for a half in the future.

Congrats on seeing this through and HTFU to finish. Did you ever think you'd run a marathon two years ago?A couple of thoughts...Don't ever look at the instanteous pace on the gps units. Most have an average lap pace which is much better to use. If it feels very easy during a race, don't try to slow down from there and get your legs accustomed to that.Your course looked easy on paper, but it's really not unless you have trained for downhill. I can work up a blister really quick on steep descents (3-4 miles) while I can't ever recall a blister on any long flat run. The foot slides in the shoe to the front when you plant and then to the back when you push off. You really have to fly down these otherwise you will be braking. This wreaks havoc on muscles you're not used to using. I don't remember you talking about doing these type of runs during training.Great report. Enjoy your recovery and stalking out your next event.

 

[QB Bills]

Anyone have any recommendations for bad patellar tendonitis? I have had this for four or five months and I am going crazy not being able to run.

I am currently getting some active release therapy (ART) massage done, but my doctor is recommending PRP. Anyone have any experience with this?

 

[sho nuff]

Anyone have any recommendations for bad patellar tendonitis? I have had this for four or five months and I am going crazy not being able to run.

I am currently getting some active release therapy (ART) massage done, but my doctor is recommending PRP. Anyone have any experience with this?

Never had it that bad...but these work great. Or the single strap under the knee for some. I find I like the over under one better.But yours sounds pretty bad if he is rec. the PRP.

 

[IvanKaramazov]

Miles 14-19 (12:54,11:08,13:00,12:2816:07) I am now really hurting. I am nauseous,the blister is unbearable, headache, and regardless of how much I drink I have cotton mouth. The first inklings of I cant do this enter my mind. This is where I was surprised by the emotions. I came close to having a mental crying breakdown. All I could think of was how much I worked and this is what I have to show for it. I was really working myself up here. The girl I talked to on the bus told me she dropped out of one marathon at mile 20. At the time I was thinking WTF drops out at mile 20? I am now getting it. At some point here I am passed by the 5:00 pace group. I have still never seen the 4:30 guy. During this time I am also thinking of every one in this thread. Wondering how the #### some of you do this not only well but exceed? I just keep plugging away. I will say during this time I see a girl remove her shirt and run in a sports bra which was fabulous.

I love the way you're having an existential crisis at this stage of the event, but you're able to notice the important things in life. Seriously though, the cliche about how if marathons were easy then everybody would do them is absolutely true, and now you know that when people joke around about how Mile 20 is the halfway point, they're not really joking. The important thing is that you finished, which is awesome. Lots of people -- most? -- find that their first marathon is way harder than what they thought it would be, even after completing their training cycle, so there's no need to feel the slightest bit bad about accomplishing what you did.

By all means, feel free to run some halves to build up your confidence and give you a good endurance base to build from, but also know that Marathon #2 usually goes a lot better than Marathon #1

 

[IvanKaramazov]

My schedule is all messed up this week thanks to finals and my parents coming to visit tomorrow, so I got up early today to get in 13 -- okay, actually 13.1 because I'm OCD -- this morning before coming into the office. Since it was dark when I started, I just ran several loops around campus so I at least had street lamps to keep me from stumbling off a curb or something.

The problematic part of this is that I passed by a gay guy who my wife and I are both friends with, and he later told my wife that I need to get a tighter-fitting fleece pullover because the one I was wearing apparently makes me look like an old woman. So my running apparel has failed the Gay Fashion Check.

 

[sports_fan]

Anyone have any recommendations for bad patellar tendonitis? I have had this for four or five months and I am going crazy not being able to run.

I am currently getting some active release therapy (ART) massage done, but my doctor is recommending PRP. Anyone have any experience with this?

Never had it that bad...but these work great. Or the single strap under the knee for some. I find I like the over under one better.But yours sounds pretty bad if he is rec. the PRP.

I've used a bunch of different knee braces (anywhere from $5 to $100+), and those are one of the best for me. I prefer the single strap under the knee (Mueller) but they both helped a lot. The expensive braces I've tried didn't seem well suited for running. Those are probably better for sports that involve sharp cutting.

 

[SteelCurtain]

Marathon report:I woke up at 3:00am to get at the bus pick up by 4:40am. I ate bagel/peanut butter had cup of coffee which got the bowels moving before I left. That is a big deal for me so I was happy and felt the day was starting perfect. I had a nice 35 year old blonde sit next to me on the bus and we had good conversation on the bus ride. She was from the Phoenix area and was there to BQ. I hope she got it. The bus ride was at least 30 mins and as nice as the young lady was I got tired of listening to her and I was glad when we got there.There were patches of snow on the ground but it did not feel to cold. I got in line for the bathroom and that went well. I saw people with garbage bags on and I also saw people with the disposable OR gowns on. I will definitely go that route next time as I have access to those and they are nice. I wish I had thought of it. There was quite a wait for the start of the race. I guess so all the buses could get there. It is a pretty tight area where the race starts. I saw the 4:30 and 5:00 pace group and I got in between them. I was really just wanting to finish but in the back of my mind I wanted to do this in 4:30 and I felt I had a shot at it. I certainly thought I could come in before the 5:00 pace group.Race starts and I had a pretty good attack plan which Tri-man had emailed me after seeing the map.Mile 1(10:57) through mile 2(11:09) I was concentrating on just going slow, light foot falls, short stride, trying not to geek out. I felt I did these two miles well and I was happy.Mile 3 (10:53) through mile 4 (11:27) I am still trying to go slow but I am also looking at heart rate and speed. I have to say I am surprised at the pace here. I thought it was faster and I was purposely trying to slow down. Seemed like every time I looked at the garmin I saw a sub 10:00 pace. This becomes a recurring theme.Miles 5- 10 ( 10:39,10:06, 10:14,11:22,10:03,10:19) This is where I am thinking I am making up time and if I play it right I can catch the 4:30 pace group. At mile 6 I notice a blister forming on my right foot. I did what you are never supposed to do and I wore some new socks that I never trained in. I don’t know if the blister is from that or the constant down hill of this race. Any way I just ignore it and keep going. I am feeling really good at mile 10 and I am surprised I have not caught the 4:30 pace group. I know the 5:00 pace group is long in my rear view.I was really feeling good here and if the race ended at mile 11-13 I would be ecstatic but we all know it does not end there.Miles 11-13 (11:22,13:09,12:54) Is the beginning of things going south. At this point we have some hills to climb. I have just run 5 miles down hill and I hit these things. It is an out and back so I am hoping to see the 4:30 pace group in the loop. At one point I see the 3:40 pace group so I get excited thinking I have to be close to the 4:30 guy. I do some walking on hills here.Miles 14-19 (12:54,11:08,13:00,12:2816:07) I am now really hurting. I am nauseous,the blister is unbearable, headache, and regardless of how much I drink I have cotton mouth. The first inklings of I cant do this enter my mind. This is where I was surprised by the emotions. I came close to having a mental crying breakdown. All I could think of was how much I worked and this is what I have to show for it. I was really working myself up here. The girl I talked to on the bus told me she dropped out of one marathon at mile 20. At the time I was thinking WTF drops out at mile 20? I am now getting it. At some point here I am passed by the 5:00 pace group. I have still never seen the 4:30 guy. During this time I am also thinking of every one in this thread. Wondering how the #### some of you do this not only well but exceed? I just keep plugging away. I will say during this time I see a girl remove her shirt and run in a sports bra which was fabulous.Miles 20-26 (16:07,14:11,14:50,14:59,15:48,16:17,17:15) I am done. When I try to run my calves are cramping and I can feel the muscles twitching. It was pretty painful. I am walking more then running and each step is excruciating. I am thinking I will never do this again. I come to one water stop staffed by young girls in their 20s or maybe even high school? They were dressed nice and moving in a good way. They looked like young strippers working on moves. They were talking all the guys up and one of them says “your looking sexy Prosopis” Normally this would put a little pick me up in my step but not this time. I wanted to drown her in the water jug. I gave her a smile and moved on. During this time I am seriously concerned I wont make the cut off time. A medic on a bike asks if I am ok and I give him the thumbs up.The End: I am looking forward to the pictures as I was trying to make it look like I was having fun and still running. I had another emotional wave as I realized I had made it. Getting the medal was awesome. I don’t know how many people were behind me but I am sure I was in the last wave.I was eating gels every 4 miles and I think that may have made me nauseous. I don’t have an answer to the cotton mouth. I also ate a cliff crunch bar some where around mile 22 which was horrible. On the shuttle ride to my car I heard a guy say the pacer for the 4:30 group dropped out which is why I never caught up to or saw them. I met a guy from marathon maniacs which sounds freaking insane. I could see Grue doing something like that. I have a huge blister on my left foot. It covers the three middle toe area. I think my optimum race length is the half marathon. I think I can do it, its challenging, and I have a reasonable chance of improving. Despite my whining, crying, and moaning I will do another marathon. I did like it. I do think I would try another training program. Thanks to every one in here. You guys are a true inspiration and fantastic trainers. Special thanks to Tri Man who talked me through all of last week. I got a massage today and I am real sore. The final times are in and I was 5:34:16 avg pace 12:50. I have to say I am disappointed with that but at the same time I enjoyed telling people I ran a marathon . The avg bloke at work can not believe anyone can go 26.2 miles regardless of times. I am going to enjoy my recovery plan and look for a half in the future.

Great job! I know it was a grind and you felt the entire marathon those last few miles.Your experience will help guide your training for marathon #2. I'll bet you train more (particularly on the long runs) and that will pay off for you.I agree with you about the half marathon. Its a really manageable distance and one that I can run and then do yard work that afternoon. The full marathon is another animal all together and requires an entirely different level of commitment. That being said, I really enjoy the camaraderie that the marathon brings as we all know how hard our fellow runners have trained for that race.Congratulations and enjoy some time off!

 

[Ned]

My schedule is all messed up this week thanks to finals and my parents coming to visit tomorrow, so I got up early today to get in 13 -- okay, actually 13.1 because I'm OCD -- this morning before coming into the office. Since it was dark when I started, I just ran several loops around campus so I at least had street lamps to keep me from stumbling off a curb or something. The problematic part of this is that I passed by a gay guy who my wife and I are both friends with, and he later told my wife that I need to get a tighter-fitting fleece pullover because the one I was wearing apparently makes me look like an old woman. So my running apparel has failed the Gay Fashion Check.

As I read this, I was expecting the comment from your buddy was going to be about the rear view.

 

[BassNBrew]

Anyone have any recommendations for bad patellar tendonitis? I have had this for four or five months and I am going crazy not being able to run.I am currently getting some active release therapy (ART) massage done, but my doctor is recommending PRP. Anyone have any experience with this?

The straps have helped me immensely, but leg extensions are the proactive step to helping. Everytime I'm in the gym I do them, even if it's three days in a row, although I do have lighter and heavier days. Typically a heavy day would be 3x10 120 lb single legs and a light day 3x10 90 lbs singles. I think the 25% drop off doesn't fatigue me at all and I can run afterwards with no impact.It will still act up on hilly long runs, but it doesn't linger more than an hour or two afterwards when I'm in a good cycle.

 

[tri-man 47]

Marathon report:

Miles 14-19 (12:54,11:08,13:00,12:28 16:07)

Remember the training run a few weeks ago where you cut a 20 miler down to 17? That's where things started to unwind here, which is more than coincidental. Ultimately, a lot of your late race struggles can be tied to the training mileage (hindered by heat, work, life, etc.).

I think my optimum race length is the half marathon.

Very few runners can say that the marathon is their optimum race distance! 26.2 is just plain hard. It can get better with some experience, but still, the line between success and struggle is a very thin line.

I enjoyed telling people I ran a marathon . The avg bloke at work can not believe anyone can go 26.2 miles regardless of times. I am going to enjoy my recovery plan and look for a half in the future.

This! So yes, enjoy. You've earned it!!! Overcoming the adversity you faced is as great an accomplishment as achieving any pre-determined time. Your family and friends should be rightfully proud of you.Thanks for the report!

 

[gruecd]

Prosopis - Congrats again on gutting out the finish. I've read that less than 1% of the world's population has ever finished a marathon, and now you're part of that statistic!!

I love that you're already talking about doing another one. They all hurt, but if you want it to be a more pleasant experience, listen to tri-man and work on upping your mileage a little bit. As everybody knows, I'm a big believer in Pfitz, but regardless of whose training plan you follow, I think that there are three main workouts that you want to do every week: intervals/tempo, a mid-week MLR, and the weekend long run. Mix those up with some shorter recovery runs and/or some cross-training, and you'll be good to go.

Rest up, recover, and then pick your next race!

 

[pigskinliquors]

Hi All!

Great Races Prosopsis and Mrs. IvanK!

Pro: So awesome that you are now a marathoner. As stated above, you reached goal #1 and that's what it's all about. Realizing the awesomeness of girls taking shirts off reveals that your focus was fantastic. I remember the emotions from my first and last marathon (last one had three failed attempts during training prior to it), and it made all the training worth it. One of my best friends ran his first marathon on Sunday as well, and I teared up a bit at mile 22 while I was standing with his wife and all of our kids as all 4 kids (2 of mine and 2 of his) ran out to hug him as he limped by us. He also never thought he had it in him, and also fell apart at the end. It is par for the course for first marathons.

IvanK: You might need some Otis assistance to get up to Gay approved

________________________

My update:

I did the Full 2 hours of my Insanity Spinervals workout on Saturday morning. My HR got over 180 multiple times, and I thought about quitting, but new I needed to burn some extra calories this weekend. Sunday I got to root for 7 of my neighbors as 5 did a half marathon and 2 did their first marathons. My daughters thoroughly enjoyed cheering on runners, and it was very awesome watching my friends achieve running goals that they never thought they could. Immediately after having a celebratory with the whole gang after they finished I drove to Arlington, TX to watch the Cowboys game and attend some meetings. Jerry Jones spoke to our group during our dinner at the stadium, and also got us our tickets = not his suite but a damn nice one. Free booze from 3 pm to 2 am made my Monday meetings (all #######' day) awful, though I bit the hair of the dog last night. This morning I drove back home, opened the box to my new Garmin, and did a hard 21 mile ride at 20.9 mph. I know I was carrying an extra likely 6 lbs from the weekend, so I'm impressed that I actually even finished.

 

[Sand]

This morning I drove back home, opened the box to my new Garmin, and did a hard 21 mile ride at 20.9 mph.

Get something good?

 

[prosopis]

I am really sore today. I got the massage yesterday and I am not sure how much that added to this soreness but I am hurting for sure. Last time I felt like this was after doing my rim to rim hike of the Grand Canyon. Today at work was cool as I am still getting the from people who cant believe I did it. I will ride that for as long as I can.

Tomorrow I am supposed to run a 4 mile recovery run If I am as sore tomorrow as I feel today I am not sure I will do that. On the other hand I am kind of curious how much of this muscle soreness would go away after 1/2 mile or so? I will see what the weather is like tomorrow. We have had a ton of rain here since Monday. I am so happy this storm held off until Monday.

I have my eyes on a 5k in March.

 

[gruecd]

I am really sore today. I got the massage yesterday and I am not sure how much that added to this soreness but I am hurting for sure. Last time I felt like this was after doing my rim to rim hike of the Grand Canyon. Today at work was cool as I am still getting the from people who cant believe I did it. I will ride that for as long as I can.

Tomorrow I am supposed to run a 4 mile recovery run If I am as sore tomorrow as I feel today I am not sure I will do that. On the other hand I am kind of curious how much of this muscle soreness would go away after 1/2 mile or so? I will see what the weather is like tomorrow. We have had a ton of rain here since Monday. I am so happy this storm held off until Monday.

I have my eyes on a 5k in March.

You probably got the massage too soon after race. I typically wait until at least 2-3 days afterwards so that I'm getting the massage after the DOMS has set in.In terms of the recovery run, just wait a couple more days. I've got a lot more mileage under my belt, which means that my recovery times should generally be faster than yours, and yet I still typically go 4-5 days post-marathon before I resume running.

Hope that helps!

 

[gruecd]

Followed up a big weekend of boozing with 15 miles last night at 7:46/mile with a big negative split (60:10/56:18), and then followed that up with a 5/6 recovery double today. Swimming and yoga tomorrow.

Now, with no further ado...

------------------------

Favorite race: Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon. The Bourbon Chase was a very close second, but as much as I loved meeting/spending time with you guys, how could I not pick my first-ever sub-3 marathon?!

Favorite moment within a race: The point in Milwaukee (around mile 25-1/2) when I finally knew that I was gonna get the sub-3. Such a wave of emotions.

Most disappointing race: Boston Marathon. Took an ill-advised shot at sub-3 and ended up running 3:32:49 with a ridiculous 22-minute positive split (1:35/1:57). I was taking walk breaks before the halfway point. By far the earliest I've ever walked in a marathon.

Best workout: 12-miler with 7 at tempo (6:27 average) on September 9. I’d attempted to do this same workout 15 days earlier and had to bail after 3 miles of tempo. Nailed it on the 2nd attempt for a big confidence boost going into Lakefront.

Oddest workout moment: Can’t really think of any.

Funniest experience in training or a race: The beer mile. Hilarious. Still can’t believe that nobody puked.

Best memory of one of the other guys’ experiences this year: Three-way tie between tri-man nailing the Boston 2 Big Sur, Darrin completing the 3 legs of the Chase, and prosopis finishing his first marathon.

Proudest achievement of the year: Sub-3. Nothing comes close.

Specific goal for the year ahead: Completing an Olympic triathlon and my first 50-mile ultramarathon.

 

[17seconds]

For half marathon training - is it better to workout with 1 day of rest a week or is it ok to rest 2 or even 3 days a week with harder workouts?

I'm trying to follow this but I've been resting 2 or 3 days a week. For 2 reasons - I can't find time 6 days a week, and my legs are thrashed after the long runs. The good news is I've compensated by working out harder. Instead of the 3mi runs I'm doing 4-6mi and all of my runs are very hilly.

Is this going to matter?

This is actually going to burn you out pretty quickly. Those Wednesday 3 milers are meant to be recovery type runs that are sandwiched in between speed and tempo days. By hammering and lengthening those Wednesday runs, you're setting yourself up for a pretty hard crash. Those recovery days are meant to be just that - time for your body to recover from the previous day's workout. You're now heading into the 2nd most important workout (Sunday longs being #1) with tired legs. Tempo runs are pretty crucial for HM success. You want to be pretty fresh for this so you can put in some quality running.Since 6 days are tough to juggle and the long runs are killing your legs, I'd take Monday's off. If you want to keep the mileage up, doing the 4-6 on Wednesday would work as long as you run them very easy. I struggled with the concept of recovery runs for a long, long time. I still have to remind myself the purpose of the run. It's all about the mindset before heading out the door.

GL!

What he said.Seriously, I've said this multiple times in here, but you have to remember that each run has a specific purpose. A lot of runners (newer ones, in particular) think that it must be a good thing if each run is faster than the last one, and while I can certainly understand why a person would think that way, it's most definitely not the case. Like Ned said, sometimes the purpose is simply active recovery. Other times, it's to work on your aerobic fitness. Sometimes you're working to improve your Lactate Threshold (tempo runs), and other times you want to improve your anaerobic threshold (intervals).

I know you're not training for a full marathon right now, but pick up a copy of Pete Pfitzinger's book, Advanced Marathoning. It does a great job explaining all of this. And good luck!!

Thanks. I've been chilling out the last week sticking to Higdon's advanced half training and doing much better. Today was 4x800m at a 10K pace which for me is 7:30. Easy workout!

 

[17seconds]

I think I need to get a Garmin so I'm more aware of my pace and distance. Right now just using a basic Shark chrono wristwatch.

How is the Forerunner 110? This seems to have everything I need.

 

[sho nuff]

Favorite race: The Middle Half...my first half, and one I will continue to go back for. Did not know what to expect but found I had more in me at the end of this one than I thought I did.

Favorite moment within a race: Hearing the music heading into the stadium in that first half...turning the corner to head into it and seeing my wife and kids...then hearing them call my name as I cross the finish line. EDIT...also wanted to add that during that first half...about mile 5, they had a high school drumline just going strong at the town square. Drums echoing with the buildings...was very cool.

Most disappointing race: Nashville Half...though, after a little while the disappointment was gone. But that 36 seconds due to a pee break from going sub 2 was disappointing for a bit.

Best workout: 15 miler I had a few weeks before my first half. Just gave me so much confidence that 13.1 was not going stop me at all.

Oddest workout moment: Probably doing an impromptu few tempo/speed miles and deciding if I should walk as the intestines were working up something fierce...but I figured the faster I got to that portopot...the faster I would have relief.

Funniest experience in training or a race: Running the greenway here in Nashville...a pretty decent clump of leaves fell from a tree right at a guy and watching him swat it away and try and avoid it like it was an animal pouncing on him.

Best memory of one of the other guys’ experiences this year: Hard to pick here. All of the people finishing their first races...the bourbon chase stories...boston...and grue's sub 3 were all epic and give so much inspiration to me and also has me looking at some of you in awe of what you can do.

Proudest achievement of the year: 2 half marathons and 50 lbs lost

Specific goal for the year ahead: Sub 2...and a try at a full (maybe in 2012...might be early 2013 if I wait til Disney in January 2013 to run a full and help pace my sister in law at St. Jude in December).

 

[pmbrown_22]

I have been sick the last couple of days so not much from me, although I was feeling better yesterday and got out for 8 miles. It was stupid, but I felt like I needed to get in the miles. I am paying for it today as my cold has came back at me in full force so I am going to rest a couple of days, well at least today and see what I feel like tomorrow.

To follow Grue:

----------

Favorite race: Bourbon Chase without a doubt. Not so much the race, but just to meet up with a bunch of great athletes (Yes, you schlubs from here) from "THE INTERNET" was a great experience and one that I will not forget.

Favorite moment within a race: Looping back after my Cincinnati Half Marathon finish to help my brother finish his first half.

Most disappointing race: Did not really have one. My only disappointment was not racing much more this year.

Best workout: PR on my favorite 5 mile loop here at work. I love this run and to be able to do it so well was great.

Oddest workout moment: Can’t really think of any.

Funniest experience in training or a race: Probably hearing "Someone Like You" during the Bourbon Chase about 20 times too many. I believe it is still Wraith's favorite song.

Best memory of one of the other guys experiences this year: Prosopis and his marathon debut, Ned and his marathon transformation, Grue's sub-3, and a stellar year of podium finishes by all FBGs.

Proudest achievement of the year: Not happened yet. Introducing another child into the world.



Specific goal for the year ahead: Completing marathon training on little sleep in the Spring and then hopefully a repeat performance in the Fall with possibly a BQ to go along with it. I dream big.

 

[ThreeThousand]

Favorite race: Augusta 70.3 (half ironman). Just a great overall race. Drove to Augusta with a buddy and had essentially a "guys weekend" with a race thrown in. Loved the race course and the crowd support.

Favorite moment within a race: Last half mile of the Miles 4 Major 5k I ran to support a local kid who needed hearing aids. He was out there cheering everyone on, and it didn't hurt that about the same time I realized I was going to win my AG.

Most disappointing race: Atlanta marathon. Day after Clemson/GT, with kickoff at 8:00 pm Saturday night. I didn't get to bed until about 1:00, and when the alarm went off at 4:30 I was in rough shape. Made it to the local QT for coffee before I turned around and went home, screw the $65, and I don't need another t-shirt that badly.

Best workout: Actually, just this past weekend. Hit the Silver Comet rail trail here for a tempo run, and cranked out 8.8 miles in 1:08, a 7:43 pace, which is smoking for me for anything past about 4 miles.

Oddest workout moment: Another run on the Silver Comet. I was about 4 miles into my run, and came upon this group of teenagers walking the other direction. One had headphones on. I actually got danced at. I'm not quite sure how to describe it past that. Almost like he was challenging me to a danceoff as I was running. Very strange.

Funniest experience in training or a race: I'd have to go with being danced at again.

Best memory of one of the other guys’ experiences this year: Grue's sub3 marathon takes it for me. That's a monster performance in a tough race.

Proudest achievement of the year: 3 half irons completed, and my first (and only, to date) marathon. If you told me 1/1/2011 that I'd have done all that, I would have laughed at you.

Specific goal for the year ahead: This one's easy. Ironman Florida, sub 12:25 (as that's my buddy's time from this past year), November 3rd 2012.

 

[gruecd]

Specific goal for the year ahead: Completing marathon training on little sleep in the Spring and then hopefully a repeat performance in the Fall with possibly a BQ to go along with it. I dream big.

And why wouldn't you?

 

[gruecd]

I think I need to get a Garmin so I'm more aware of my pace and distance. Right now just using a basic Shark chrono wristwatch.How is the Forerunner 110? This seems to have everything I need.

It would be fine, but you can get the 305 (which includes a HRM) for the same price as the 110 without one. The 305 isn't as stylish, but as long as you're only planning on wearing it for running, who cares?!

 

[Ned]

I'm loving the YE reports!

Proudest achievement of the year: 3 half irons completed, and my first (and only, to date) marathon. If you told me 1/1/2011 that I'd have done all that, I would have laughed at you.

Specific goal for the year ahead: This one's easy. Ironman Florida, sub 12:25 (as that's my buddy's time from this past year), November 3rd 2012.

Your proudest moment and then next year's goal made me wonder... We should add a category for how we fared against our year goals that we set last year. Many/most of us probably wrote up YE reports last year and set specific goals. 3K obviously crushed whatever goal(s) he set. It would be fun to look back and see what we were thinking 12mos ago.

 

[The_Man]

Great idea, Grue.

Favorite race: I didn't race much this year, so I'll have to go with the Marathon and setting a 3:20:30 PR

Favorite moment within a race: The finish of the 5-mile "easy run" one week before the Marathon which I ended up getting all competitive and racing - where I passed one last person climbing the final hill to become the first runner age 40+ to finish (10th overall).

Most disappointing race: The 10-miler I did in June after doing virtually no running for three months. Struggled to an 8:30 pace for the race and realized just how much fitness I had lost.

Best workout: First 20-miler of the Marathon training, averaged 8:31 for the run and cranked out the last 4 in 7:43, 7:30, 7:26, 7:25. I didn't know I had that in me and it changed my perspective on what kind of marathon goal might be possible for me.

Oddest workout moment: Don't know -- maybe all the times I run past my neighbors (and once my wife!) without recognizing them because it's in the pre-dawn darkness and I'm not wearing my contacts. Happened again this morning, where I passed a group of four neighbors running together and had no idea it was them until one of them gave me crap later.

Funniest experience in training or a race: I guess it hearing gunshots all around the trail during the Marathon (held on the opening day of Hunting Season) and then seeing the dead deer in the trail at Mile 18. Kind of "funny weird."

Best memory of one of the other guys experiences this year: Grue's sub-3 was so awesome. And I'm a total sucker for the guys getting out there and doing something they never dreamed they could, like Ned, Prosopis, Jmb2010 and others I'm sure I'm forgetting.



Proudest achievement of the year: Getting back into it. I really took a huge step backward by not running for so long, and that shabby 10-mile race in June could have been an excuse to give it up. Instead, I buckled down and started over, and am now finally even a little better than when I stopped running in the spring.



Specific goal for the year ahead: #1 - BQ, Baby. I need to shave off another 5:30 from my Marathon PR, but I have a feeling I can do it. #2 - run the 2012 Baltimore 10-miler at least 10 minutes faster than I ran it last year as a symbol have far I've come back from that low point.

 

[The_Man]

I'm loving the YE reports!

Proudest achievement of the year: 3 half irons completed, and my first (and only, to date) marathon. If you told me 1/1/2011 that I'd have done all that, I would have laughed at you.

Specific goal for the year ahead: This one's easy. Ironman Florida, sub 12:25 (as that's my buddy's time from this past year), November 3rd 2012.

Your proudest moment and then next year's goal made me wonder... We should add a category for how we fared against our year goals that we set last year. Many/most of us probably wrote up YE reports last year and set specific goals. 3K obviously crushed whatever goal(s) he set. It would be fun to look back and see what we were thinking 12mos ago.

Nice idea. Here was mine:

- specific goal for the year ahead: BQ, baby! (as long as they don't change the qualifying standards)

So I did technically get my goal. But since they did indeed change the standards, I now have the opportunity to meet this same goal again next year!

 

[gruecd]

Good idea, Ned. Here's mine from last year (from page 438):

- specific goal for the year ahead -- I still want to run a sub-3 marathon, but I'm only planning on running one marathon in 2011 (Boston), and I'm not sure if that's the place to do it. More likely at Houston in January 2012. If I can pick up the swimming, thinking about attempting my first HIM in July.

So let's see....I ran three marathons. Two were legitimate sub-3 attempts, and I got it on my second try. Didn't really make a serious attempt at the swimming, so that one kinda got thrown out the window.All said, I'd consider it a success.

 

[pmbrown_22]

Here is my year in review based on my 2010 prediction:

- specific goal for the year ahead: 2500 miles would be nice. Strong finish in the Bourbon Chase. A BQ would be the topper to a great year though.

I think it was not too long after I posted this that I had my Forest Gump moment and stopped mid-run and quit running for a week. I decided to make it a down year and go from there.We had a strong finish in the Bourbon Chase so on out of three ain't bad.

 

[sho nuff]

For Ned's idea...

Not sure I stated any goals in here.

But mine was really just to lose weight and run a half marathon...so that part was accomplished.

Though, I may end up being about 2 pounds off my goal of getting under 200 lbs by the end of the year.

Stupid holiday treats.

 

[pigskinliquors]

This morning I drove back home, opened the box to my new Garmin, and did a hard 21 mile ride at 20.9 mph.

Get something good?

I bought the 405 as it was posted here by somebody (Ned?) at a ridiculously low price. I still have a 305, and will likely give the 405 to somebody for Christmas, as I can't really find an advantage that it has over the 305 for my needs. I found the below review this morning, and fully agree with virtually 100% of it...

For anyone contemplating buying a Garmin, this as a bit of a compendium, to hopefully get all the relevant comparison info in one place, rather than having to trawl through probably 80+ pages on the various other Garmin threads.

Executive summary:

* If you want the most functional GPS traning tool, get the 305.

* If you want the best GPS watch, get the 405.

* If you want second best, get a Polar or an older model.

GPS Accuracy

Both devices are effectively the same. The 405 definately does pick up satellies faster than the 305 (I don't know how they got it so much faster), but this is a minor point overall. However, once going, head to head tracking accuracy is basically the same. The 305 appears to give a better instantaneous pace reading, but the average pace and recorded distances are basically the same.

Interface

The 405's bezel is funky bling, but the 305's buttons are a more effective and accurate interface. Because of this, it's overall easier to use the 305 for general training, and planning simple workouts, than the 405, but less sexy.

Display

The 305 display is bigger, and therfore better than the 405. The 405 only gives a max of three data fields, while the 305 gives 4 fields, plus it also shows the HR in the top right of the general screens (I'd call this 5 fields, but the HR reading is admittedly very small and not easy to read). Set at 4 display fields, the 305's fields are still quite large and readable. At 3 fields, the 405 is pretty small - still readable, but they also round off data with one less decimal of precision than the 305.

The display size issue shows up most if using the unit on a bike handlebar mount. It's definately far easier to read the 305 screen than the 405 screen while cycling. That being said, there's no problem reading the 405 for running, even the smaller display fields. It's just the shaking of a handlebar that makes the small fields a problem.

Advanced Workouts

Both units have equivalent advanced workout functionality (advanced workouts are planned and programed in Garmin Trainin Centre and downloaded to the unit). However, the 305's extra advanced workout display fields are superior to what the 405 displays. Specifically, the 305 has an advanced workout page that give a summary of the lap you have just done and what the next lap will be. The 405 annoyingly lacks this.

Multi Sport

The 305 supports the concept of running, cycling and 'other' activities. The 405 only does running and cycling. The 305 can automatically switch between sports in the one session, the 405 can't, and requires a session to be stopped and manually switched. The 305 allows each sport's display windows to be configured specifically, so cycling mode automatically uses speed, while running mode uses pace. The 405 annoyingly doesn't. So the 305 is clearly better here. For the triathletes out there, the 305 also has a specific mount kit to quickly clip between a bike mount and wrist, a very smart addition.

Navigation

The 405 lacks the map functionality of the 305. This is an unfortunate loss for the 405, as the map is invaluable in unfamiliar areas. A great feature of the 305 is to map a route with MapMyRun (using Google Maps), and download this on to the 305 as a course and follow the map. Basic navigation functionality for sure, but very usable if you plan to run or ride in an unfamiliar area.

If navigation functionaliy is import, the 305 is a must.

Wearability

For training purposes, I'd rate both units equal, simply because the 305 is perfectly wearable for running. The 405's designers deserve great credit for how they have packed everything into the unit. Overall, it's the same size on my wrist as the old Timex ironman watch, just a bit thicker in depth. People with pencil sized wrists could find both a bit bulky, but otherwise, most people will wear either just fine.

Watch

The 305 basically has no watch functionality, it's just a training tool. The 405 is a very effective everyday watch. Ok, it's a bit bulky in comparison to most watches, but it is fine for everyday wear. I'd add that it is no more bulky than a Polar HRM/watch. The bonus over the 305 here is, if you wear the 405 as an everyday watch, you won't forget it and leave it at home! If you don't intend to wear the 405 as a watch, I would question why you are not getting a 305.

Battery Life

The 305 is rated for 10hrs - and is good for this, the 405 for 8. However, it's important to note that, the 405 doesn't turn off after use, it just switches to power save mode. This means that the 405 is always draining power, so you'll only get 8hrs GPS use if you have just pulled it from the charger at 100% charge. You'll use at least 7% power every day in watch mode (more if using the light and/or alarm), so you won't get near 8hrs of GPS use before needing to recharge the 405 in normal use. In practice, I need to charge it every 3 or 4 days, given an hour or so use a day, in order to ensure that I won't run out of battery for the next run or ride.

Both units charge off a computer's USB port. I find it no problem to charge either, although it's somewhat ironic that the 405 gets charged off a USB cable, but interfaces via a USB wireless adapter, while the 305 charges AND interfaces by the one cable/cradle. Because of this, the 305's charge is always topped up between downloads.

PC Connection

While there is nothing wrong with the 305's cable and cradle, the 405 is just sooooooo damn sexy with the wireless USB stick. Maybe not if you are a Mac user, but if you live in the real world of Windows, the USB is just great. After several months, the 405 still gives me a warm gooey sense of satisfaction, to see it automatically synch whenever I come near my laptop. The bonus here is that data is automatically captured very easily. It's also nice that data is effectively backed up to Garmin Connect on the web - so it can't be lost - although I still use SportsTracks for normal electronic diary purposes.

Water Resistence

Do not swim or shower with either. If you get a 305, tape up the speaker holes in the rear, to avoid sweat corrosion if nothing else. Both will survive rain, but avoid immersion for either. Garmin will do well to waterproof their next product for swimming.

Accessories

Both units are equivalent in offering a bike speed/cadence sensor, and a foot pod. The speed/cadence sensor is only really needed if you want cadence info for cycling, the foot pod only if you do treadmill running, or are stuck in the rare exception of the concrete canyons of Sydney for most of your running. As mentioned above, the 305 does have a great kit for bike/run transitions.

Personal Experience

I own both, and I wear the 405 as an every day watch (it now taking pride of place over my old retired Timex bodylink). In practice, this means that I use the 405 in preference to the 305 about 95% of my running time, simply because it's already on my wrist and because it gives me all the functionality and feedback I want for general use. I'm now using the 305 in preference for cycling, it being more readable on the handlebar mount. For running, I only usually use the 305 for a few advanced workout based sessions. I also use the 305 for running and mountain/road cycling in new or unfamiliar areas. Since waking up to the world of MapMyRun, this has been invaluable for planning and mapping new places to explore, without having to pull out a map and compass all the time to check where I'm going.

Personal Recommendation

If you don't own either unit, and choosing only one to own:

* If you are going to wear it as a watch, or you really like bling and have the money, get the 405.

* If you already have a watch that you like, and will only use the GPS for running or riding, or want the best value for money, get the 305.

The 405 is a great piece of kit, and it's not that you'll miss out on much with the 405, as it does nearly everything the 305 does (except the navigation map). It's just that the 305 does what it does slightly better, albeit in a less sexy way. The 305 is also priced significantly less than the 405, so it offers a significantly better value for money proposition.

For what it's worth, either unit significantly exceeds the functionality and value for money of any other GPS training tool on the market at this time, and easily offers more than any footpod based product.

 

[Ned]

Favorite race: The Philly marathon is an incredible atmosphere and experiece. I'd love to say it was my favorite this year, but I went through so much that I can't say that I had a lot of fun. My favorite was the 10 miler in January called the 'Icicle'. Slipping and sliding through the hilly state park on 3" of ice while trying to maintain race pace was a huge rush.

Favorite moment within a race: The back and forth racing I did with a marine during a 5K while on Summer vacation. Being ex-AF made it that much sweeter when I finally pulled away from him. Setting a 21:21 PR was icing on the cake.

Most disappointing race: The tune-up HM I ran in October. I did just about everything wrong in terms of pacing. You like to think of yourself as a wiser runner as time goes by, but you still are capable of doing stupid things.

Best workout: Finally conquering the 20 miler (was actually 21). What a massive confidence boost that was.

Oddest workout moment: We have a local guy that rides his bike everywhere and never wears a shirt. Amazingly, I've never crossed paths with him until recently. As we crossed paths during one of my Sunday long runs, he stood up on the pedals and gave me a military salute.

Funniest experience in training or a race: While on Chestnut street during the Philly marathon, someone held up a sign saying 'Worst Parade Ever'. It was even funnier hearing the wave of laughter from the runners both in front and behind me.

Best memory of one of the other guys experiences this year: This year seemed especially epic, it's hard to choose just 1. If forced to choose, I'd say it'd have to be Mr. 2:59 and BnB's mountain marathon. You guys are rock stars in my book.

Proudest achievement of the year: The entire Philly marathon experience. I still don't know how I managed to fight off the ####s and puking, but I'm very proud of how I hung in there.

Specific goal for the year ahead: #1 - break 4:00 marathon. #2 - 2,000 miles YTD.

Last year's goal - How'd you do?:

Specific goal for the year ahead: Finish the Delaware Marathon in May - time TBD; 1,000 miles.

While I came nowhere close to the time I wanted (4:42 vs 4:00 goal), I finished DE. As of yesterday, I've got 1,655.2mi YTD.

 

[gruecd]

* If you are going to wear it as a watch, or you really like bling and have the money, get the 405. * If you already have a watch that you like, and will only use the GPS for running or riding, or want the best value for money, get the 305.

I suspect that I'm going to regret asking this, but who the hell wears his GPS as an everyday watch??

 

[tri-man 47]

I am really sore today. I got the massage yesterday and I am not sure how much that added to this soreness but I am hurting for sure. Last time I felt like this was after doing my rim to rim hike of the Grand Canyon. Today at work was cool as I am still getting the from people who cant believe I did it. I will ride that for as long as I can.

Tomorrow I am supposed to run a 4 mile recovery run If I am as sore tomorrow as I feel today I am not sure I will do that. On the other hand I am kind of curious how much of this muscle soreness would go away after 1/2 mile or so? I will see what the weather is like tomorrow. We have had a ton of rain here since Monday. I am so happy this storm held off until Monday.

I have my eyes on a 5k in March.

You probably got the massage too soon after race. I typically wait until at least 2-3 days afterwards so that I'm getting the massage after the DOMS has set in.In terms of the recovery run, just wait a couple more days. I've got a lot more mileage under my belt, which means that my recovery times should generally be faster than yours, and yet I still typically go 4-5 days post-marathon before I resume running.

Hope that helps!

To add to that ...a good rule of thumb is a day off for each hour of racing. You've earned some days off! The next couple of runs you do are merely to get blood flowing to help the healing process. Take them very slow and easy. But you should heal better with a bit of running than just sitting around!

 

[gruecd]

To add to that ...a good rule of thumb is a day off for each hour of racing. You've earned some days off! The next couple of runs you do are merely to get blood flowing to help the healing process. Take them very slow and easy. But you should heal better with a bit of running than just sitting around!

Or in you want to spare yourself the impact, hop on the elliptical or get in the pool instead. Whatever works!

 

[BassNBrew]

* If you are going to wear it as a watch, or you really like bling and have the money, get the 405. * If you already have a watch that you like, and will only use the GPS for running or riding, or want the best value for money, get the 305.

I suspect that I'm going to regret asking this, but who the hell wears his GPS as an everyday watch??

But I'm using a Suunto which has a separate gps unit. Thinking about switching, but after reading the write up above, the garmin not being waterproof is giving me cuase for concern. The lack of battery life with the garmin looks like a pain too.

 

[sho nuff]

To add to that ...a good rule of thumb is a day off for each hour of racing. You've earned some days off! The next couple of runs you do are merely to get blood flowing to help the healing process. Take them very slow and easy. But you should heal better with a bit of running than just sitting around!

Or in you want to spare yourself the impact, hop on the elliptical or get in the pool instead. Whatever works!

If I called my wife that, there would be no hopping on ever again.

 

[pmbrown_22]

* If you are going to wear it as a watch, or you really like bling and have the money, get the 405. * If you already have a watch that you like, and will only use the GPS for running or riding, or want the best value for money, get the 305.

I suspect that I'm going to regret asking this, but who the hell wears his GPS as an everyday watch??

But I'm using a Suunto which has a separate gps unit. Thinking about switching, but after reading the write up above, the garmin not being waterproof is giving me cuase for concern. The lack of battery life with the garmin looks like a pain too.

Only going by memory here, but I thought Garmin put out a 310XT that is waterproof so it can be used for a Triathlon. I think it was a bit more pricy than the 305, but still an option if money is no object.

 

[pigskinliquors]

This whole goal process is damn depressing to me after the year I've had My goal from last year was...

Specific goal for the year ahead: 1) Gain overall body strength (especially legs) and retain it, 2) Complete a HIM, 3) Have myself ready to BQ in early 2012 (I had hoped to qualify in 2011, but don't think I'll be running a marathon this year).

I certainly have more body strength this year than last, but with all my flippin' health problems, goals two and three are likely now never feasible I'll help the rest of you feel better about your year, by completing the below...

Favorite race: None. I didn't get a race in this year. All races that everyone else did sucked bc of it.

Favorite moment within a race: NONE. All moments of all races sucked this year as I wasn't able to partake.

Most disappointing race: All the races I planned on racing, but had to sit on my ### like a Nancy-boy, unable to get to the starting line.

Best workout: Most of them sucked as I was in pain. I'd have to go with my 45 mile ride last month as it was the only time I've felt somewhat in shape all year.

Oddest workout moment: Probably my first bike ride after Dr. finally diagnosing what was wrong with me, after struggling for 8 months with extreme pain after each workout. With minor adjustments on my setup, I actually had zero pain, and even felt better after that first ride.

Funniest experience in training or a race: Probably while riding on my bike with my buddy during his only 20 mile run before his first marathon. At mile 17 he needed to go into the woods to relieve himself and came out with no socks on, and asked me if I could spare my socks. Since they were my favorite Badger logo'd cycling socks I said hells to the no.

Best memory of one of the other guys experiences this year: Lots of good memories but here are some fav's: following Grue's quest to go sub 3:00; Ned's continual improvement; SandingTM; Prosopsis first marathon; 2Young's quest for a little-person division; BnB's reports on just about anything; Tri-Man's ability to live another year; ShoNuff losing the equivalent of a BackStreet Boy; and being able to see the Bourbon Chasers cross the finish line.

Proudest achievement of the year: Finding a way to get back into training, post my running career. I am actually enjoying the transformation to being a cyclist.

Specific goal for the year ahead: #1) To get to the starting line again, and often! I can't wait to just have race adrenaline again. #2) to podium in a race. #3) to make a run at 4:30 at HH100 again. #4) to have a bucket-list type race this year (I'm thinking about doing RAGBRAI).

 

[sho nuff]

Best memory of one of the other guys experiences this year: Lots of good memories but here are some fav's: following Grue's quest to go sub 3:00; Ned's continual improvement; SandingTM; Prosopsis first marathon; 2Young's quest for a little-person division; BnB's reports on just about anything; Tri-Man's ability to live another year; ShoNuff losing the equivalent of a BackStreet Boy; and being able to see the Bourbon Chasers cross the finish line.

And I will add...talk about inspiring...going from being told you can't do what you really enjoy doing, then attacking the bike like a madman. Big thumbs up to you.