Ran a 10k in June (10 Viewers)

[wraith5]

Had a little problem today. I have been running two days and off one. Been increasing my distance at a good rate up to between 3 and 5 miles per run. Today I could not do more then 2.25. I hit a wall. I sweat more then my longer runs. I have no idea what happened to me today. Hopefully I'll get back on track during my next run.

You've gotta expect some off days - long weekend? Were you tired? You'll be back on track for your next run. If you start feeling tired, feel free to slow down a bit, but push through it and keep running!!

 

[GStrot]

GStrot-You got me thinking it would be a good idea to start running when I stumbled upon this thread. I have been running on the treadmill for a little over a week, and have plans to run a 5K in April. Maybe by the end of the summer I can get to 10K. I am trying to split the difference in the Hal H beginner and intermediate 5k program. Since my starting running ability is 2 miles and am now up to 2.25 I am somewhere around week 4 of the beginner plan. I then plan to add 3 or 4 weeks to the end of the beginner plan to build to around 5 miles by the time I run the 5K. My routine is 1 minute walk to warm up, then I run, then I do a longer cool down walk at the end. My running speed is only 5.5 MPH, but as I work my way into it I hope to get closer to 6.5. My hesitation in upping my speed is fear of burnout. I am getting the distance in now and fear that if I up speed now I will not be able to get the miles in and gradually give the whole thing up. I feel pretty lame at 5.5 MPH, but that is the speed I can handle. Good luck with your training. I have to agree that running on the tread mill is pretty boring, but I think it will get better.

good luck to you. seems like you have this well planned out. You shouldn't have mentioned the 5k in April. I am going to hold you to it.

 

[GStrot]

Did just the 1.5 miles today with a couple minutes warming up and a couple minutes afterward, I did around 1.9 miles in 20 minutes. Running on a treadmill sucks. But, I am worried that I will be worse outside. Sometimes I just kept going because the treadmill was moving. Running is boring. Even with the tv on.

That's why you need to get outside and find a group to run with. It can be VERY motivating to run behind a cute chick in tiny running shorts, or beside a busty chick in a spring-loaded sportsbra (assuming you have good peripheral vision).

I am going to need to get bigger shorts.

 

[GStrot]

The great thing about having a race as a goal is that it keeps you going, despite setbacks and bad days and all. This weekend, I had planned to run 10 miles as part of my marathon training. I was out of town, so I needed to plan the run in advance since I would be on unfamiliar roads. Because of commitments during the day, I went running early at 7:00 a.m. It was still dark out, the temp was about 6 degrees, and a light wind was blowing. But I had a goal, and needed to stick with my plan. You do what you've got to do!

By the way, here's a great tool to determine mileage:

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/

After putting in your location and zooming in as needed, click to start recording, and then double click on the map to start and to mark each turn in your course. Great for planning runs while traveling, and great for planning longer runs.

I use mapmyrun.com I think it is the same idea. Cool stuff.

 

[GStrot]

Do you vary the speeds at all when you're on the treadmill? Maybe start out at 6 MPH, then bump it up to 6.2, 6.5, 6.7, 6.5, 6.2, 6.0 for about three minutes each or whatever feels comfortable. The idea is just to get some variety and to give you something to think about while you're on the treadmill, without making huge jumps in speed. By starting and finishing a little slower, you can usually warm up and cool down for slightly less time, too.

Many treadmills have programs with varied speed and incline built in - I used to avoid them, but now they add a nice bit of challenge and variety for my runs. I think they give you a much better workout and help prepare you for running outside better that just flat 6.0 (or whatever) treadmill runs. Braved the outdoors in Chicago on Saturday and did 6 miles in the 14 degree weather. I had to walk a few times since I'm just getting back into it after 4 months off, but it felt good to hit that mileage again. Of course, my balaclava was pretty iced up by the time I was done, but I hardly noticed it while I was running. (Needless to say, Roarin, there are no "cute chicks in tiny running shorts" around here in February!!)

You are a braver man than I am. I don't plan on being outside here in Chicago (especially with the new snow) until March. What running store do you go to to get your shoes, etc.?

 

[IvanKaramazov]

Had a little problem today. I have been running two days and off one. Been increasing my distance at a good rate up to between 3 and 5 miles per run. Today I could not do more then 2.25. I hit a wall. I sweat more then my longer runs. I have no idea what happened to me today. Hopefully I'll get back on track during my next run.

1. Sometimes you just have a "bad run" because you're fatigued, your blood sugar is low, or whatever. Don't worry about it unless it becomes a regular thing. 2. Maybe you're running too fast. Most of your training runs should be at a comfortable pace that you can converse at. By the time you've gotten up to doing 5 miles with regularity, you probably shouldn't be running out gas at your training pace after just 2 1/4. I know that when I experience "shut down" like you described, it's usually because I started off too fast. Just a thought.

 

[wraith5]

Do you vary the speeds at all when you're on the treadmill? Maybe start out at 6 MPH, then bump it up to 6.2, 6.5, 6.7, 6.5, 6.2, 6.0 for about three minutes each or whatever feels comfortable. The idea is just to get some variety and to give you something to think about while you're on the treadmill, without making huge jumps in speed. By starting and finishing a little slower, you can usually warm up and cool down for slightly less time, too.

Many treadmills have programs with varied speed and incline built in - I used to avoid them, but now they add a nice bit of challenge and variety for my runs. I think they give you a much better workout and help prepare you for running outside better that just flat 6.0 (or whatever) treadmill runs. Braved the outdoors in Chicago on Saturday and did 6 miles in the 14 degree weather. I had to walk a few times since I'm just getting back into it after 4 months off, but it felt good to hit that mileage again. Of course, my balaclava was pretty iced up by the time I was done, but I hardly noticed it while I was running. (Needless to say, Roarin, there are no "cute chicks in tiny running shorts" around here in February!!)

You are a braver man than I am. I don't plan on being outside here in Chicago (especially with the new snow) until March. What running store do you go to to get your shoes, etc.?

With the snow running outside is difficult at best. I really don't like running in the streets if I can avoid it, and it's just dangerous running on ice/snow. I think we're in for a bunch more in the next 24 hours or so... so Treadmill City it is! If you layer up, it really - honestly - isn't bad running outside. When you get higher up in the mileage, you will definitely not want to do those runs on a treadmill. I live in Palatine, and there's a little running store near my house called Running Unlimited (on Northwest Highway). I always buy my shoes there - most of my other gear has come from various sources over the years (I actually have a Hal Higdon "Virtual Training" shirt I wear as a base layer that I've had for about 6 years). I know I could pay less somewhere else for the same pair of Brooks I get there, but I like the fact that they hire a lot of Palatine HS athletes and train them in how to help people buy the right running shoes.

 

[meeka]

GStrot-You got me thinking it would be a good idea to start running when I stumbled upon this thread. I have been running on the treadmill for a little over a week, and have plans to run a 5K in April. Maybe by the end of the summer I can get to 10K. I am trying to split the difference in the Hal H beginner and intermediate 5k program. Since my starting running ability is 2 miles and am now up to 2.25 I am somewhere around week 4 of the beginner plan. I then plan to add 3 or 4 weeks to the end of the beginner plan to build to around 5 miles by the time I run the 5K. My routine is 1 minute walk to warm up, then I run, then I do a longer cool down walk at the end. My running speed is only 5.5 MPH, but as I work my way into it I hope to get closer to 6.5. My hesitation in upping my speed is fear of burnout. I am getting the distance in now and fear that if I up speed now I will not be able to get the miles in and gradually give the whole thing up. I feel pretty lame at 5.5 MPH, but that is the speed I can handle. Good luck with your training. I have to agree that running on the tread mill is pretty boring, but I think it will get better.

good luck to you. seems like you have this well planned out. You shouldn't have mentioned the 5k in April. I am going to hold you to it.

The Mrs. and I are doing one on the 14th or 15th of April. They are both here in the Twin Cities, so I will update my progress and race results as I go. Problem is that I will train hard for this and still struggle to keep up with my wife. My guess is she goes for 2 runs for practice before the event. After running 2.25 both days this weekend I am taking a day off from running today.

 

[RoarinSonoran]

That's why you need to get outside and find a group to run with. It can be VERY motivating to run behind a cute chick in tiny running shorts, or beside a busty chick in a spring-loaded sportsbra (assuming you have good peripheral vision).

I am going to need to get bigger shorts.

Then there are the chicks that run in what is essentially a pair of panties and a training bra ("athletic" material; lycra, whatever). These chicks are usually built like a 12yo, so the outfit is appropriate.

 

[RoarinSonoran]

The Mrs. and I are doing one on the 14th or 15th of April. They are both here in the Twin Cities, so I will update my progress and race results as I go. Problem is that I will train hard for this and still struggle to keep up with my wife. My guess is she goes for 2 runs for practice before the event. After running 2.25 both days this weekend I am taking a day off from running today.

Have her run in a french maid's outfit and high heels, then you won't mind running behind her.

 

[tri-man 47]

That's why you need to get outside and find a group to run with. It can be VERY motivating to run behind a cute chick in tiny running shorts, or beside a busty chick in a spring-loaded sportsbra (assuming you have good peripheral vision).

I am going to need to get bigger shorts.

Then there are the chicks that run in what is essentially a pair of panties and a training bra ("athletic" material; lycra, whatever). These chicks are usually built like a 12yo, so the outfit is appropriate.

Gotta love the ladies in those outfits! Had one like that pass me in last summer's triathlon, dressed in a skimpy, bright pink, two piece suit ...I looked at the marking on her leg and noticed she was 40 years old. Dang, to look that good at 40!RoarinSonoran - how was your marathon some weeks ago?GStrot, the Chicago area has a couple of **** Pond's stores (Naperville, maybe Palos). You might be able to find some website info from CARA (Chiacago Area Runners' Association) that would mention or endorse local stores.

 

[GStrot]

That's why you need to get outside and find a group to run with. It can be VERY motivating to run behind a cute chick in tiny running shorts, or beside a busty chick in a spring-loaded sportsbra (assuming you have good peripheral vision).

I am going to need to get bigger shorts.

Then there are the chicks that run in what is essentially a pair of panties and a training bra ("athletic" material; lycra, whatever). These chicks are usually built like a 12yo, so the outfit is appropriate.

Gotta love the ladies in those outfits! Had one like that pass me in last summer's triathlon, dressed in a skimpy, bright pink, two piece suit ...I looked at the marking on her leg and noticed she was 40 years old. Dang, to look that good at 40!RoarinSonoran - how was your marathon some weeks ago?GStrot, the Chicago area has a couple of **** Pond's stores (Naperville, maybe Palos). You might be able to find some website info from CARA (Chiacago Area Runners' Association) that would mention or endorse local stores.

Thanks for the shoe advice and thanks to wraith, too. I will see what is closest and check it out.You can tell a woman's age from looking at her leg? Is that like counting the rings on a tree to see how old it is? That is incredible.

 

[wraith5]

GStrot, the Chicago area has a couple of **** Pond's stores (Naperville, maybe Palos). You might be able to find some website info from CARA (Chiacago Area Runners' Association) that would mention or endorse local stores.

Thanks for the shoe advice and thanks to wraith, too. I will see what is closest and check it out.You can tell a woman's age from looking at her leg? Is that like counting the rings on a tree to see how old it is? That is incredible.

If you want selection / price, check out Roadrunner Sports. I know several people who buy their running gear there exclusively. As I said before, I personally like supporting "the local store," but the prices are significantly higher. I know **** Pond's is well respected and very active in the Chicago area events.

There is a 3 mile loop in the forest preserve right by my house - during the summer there are several very attractive ladies who frequent the area. Makes running that much more enjoyable.

3.25 on the treadmill this morning - if I'd actually watch what I eat a little bit I might start dropping a little weight soon.

 

[RoarinSonoran]

RoarinSonoran - how was your marathon some weeks ago?

From the "Runners Helping Runners" thread (post #123 if the link doesn't work)

 

[tri-man 47]

Gstrot - since competitors start in 'waves' in triathlons, we get marked on our calf to indicate which age bracket we're in. They either use a letter code or just put the age. So the hottie that passed me had "40" on her calf ...not that's that what I was looking at with her in a little pink suit and all hunched down low on her bike.

Back on the shoes issue ..I've gotten on RoadRunner Sports mailing list. What I'll sometimes do is take the catalog with me to a lower-priced store like Sports Authority. The catalog helps to define the appropriate type of shoe for me, and then I just find the right size and fit ..saving moolah. I recently bought on sale a couple pair of mid-range Asics (that were about to have a style change) for $45/pair.

 

[GStrot]

Gstrot - since competitors start in 'waves' in triathlons, we get marked on our calf to indicate which age bracket we're in. They either use a letter code or just put the age. So the hottie that passed me had "40" on her calf ...not that's that what I was looking at with her in a little pink suit and all hunched down low on her bike. Back on the shoes issue ..I've gotten on RoadRunner Sports mailing list. What I'll sometimes do is take the catalog with me to a lower-priced store like Sports Authority. The catalog helps to define the appropriate type of shoe for me, and then I just find the right size and fit ..saving moolah. I recently bought on sale a couple pair of mid-range Asics (that were about to have a style change) for $45/pair.

Thanks. I figured that was the case with the legs, I was just kidding. Although that can't be fun when you get passed by someone with a 60 on their leg. Good advice on the shoes but I am still going to a running store to get my first pair "professionally" picked out for me.

 

[GStrot]

According to the plan, ran 1.75 miles today. Totaled 1.97 in about 20 minutes including warm up and cool down.

Was tired from shoveling yesterday (and then had to shovel some more after running) but managed to get through it. Snow coverage was all over the tv so it was especially boring to watch while running. ESPN sucked, too.

 

[meeka]

Just ran my 4th time this week at 2.25 miles. This weekend I will move it up to 2.5. 3 miles is looking like it should be no problem by April. When I hit 2 miles I feel like I could probably keep going for a while, but want to pace myself so I do not burn out.

I am getting pretty excited to participate in an actual race, and that has been great motivation for me so far. Anyone struggling with motivation might want to pick a race in their area and sign up for it.

Good luck all.

 

[Punchie]

According to the plan, ran 1.75 miles today. Totaled 1.97 in about 20 minutes including warm up and cool down. Was tired from shoveling yesterday (and then had to shovel some more after running) but managed to get through it. Snow coverage was all over the tv so it was especially boring to watch while running. ESPN sucked, too.

If you're treadmill running, do you have your incline set to 1%? That's the closest to ground running a treadmill can get.

 

[tri-man 47]

Just ran my 4th time this week at 2.25 miles. This weekend I will move it up to 2.5. 3 miles is looking like it should be no problem by April. When I hit 2 miles I feel like I could probably keep going for a while, but want to pace myself so I do not burn out.I am getting pretty excited to participate in an actual race, and that has been great motivation for me so far. Anyone struggling with motivation might want to pick a race in their area and sign up for it.Good luck all.

meeka - keep at it! And I'd say: Don't be shy about pushing it out to 3 miles. That shouldn't burn you out at all. Just stretch after the run and get some fluids and food in you after the run as well.

 

[IvanKaramazov]

Last night's supper did not sit well with me at all, and I had to take several doses of Imodium for abdominal cramps. But I felt okay this morning and figured I should go ahead and do my long run (12 miles) as scheduled.

This was not the best decision I've ever made.

 

[meeka]

Just ran my 4th time this week at 2.25 miles. This weekend I will move it up to 2.5. 3 miles is looking like it should be no problem by April. When I hit 2 miles I feel like I could probably keep going for a while, but want to pace myself so I do not burn out.I am getting pretty excited to participate in an actual race, and that has been great motivation for me so far. Anyone struggling with motivation might want to pick a race in their area and sign up for it.Good luck all.

meeka - keep at it! And I'd say: Don't be shy about pushing it out to 3 miles. That shouldn't burn you out at all. Just stretch after the run and get some fluids and food in you after the run as well.

I may just go for it this weekend. I usually feel the best on the weekends when I run during the middle of the day while the kids nap. I also liked running this morning before I went into work. I may have to do that more. Seems like the end of the day has been toughest, but it works best for my family's schedule. Either my body is adjusting well to running, or it is way easier to run down 8 pounds. Probably both. Love the sig, by the way. Go Blue!

 

[tri-man 47]

Last night's supper did not sit well with me at all, and I had to take several doses of Imodium for abdominal cramps. But I felt okay this morning and figured I should go ahead and do my long run (12 miles) as scheduled. This was not the best decision I've ever made.

It's days like this when it becomes wise to just do two mile loops or so near to home. That keeps you within several blocks of the homefront in case the system starts to work its intestinal magic. Been there ...done that. inchesthecheeks:

 

[GStrot]

Just ran my 4th time this week at 2.25 miles. This weekend I will move it up to 2.5. 3 miles is looking like it should be no problem by April. When I hit 2 miles I feel like I could probably keep going for a while, but want to pace myself so I do not burn out.I am getting pretty excited to participate in an actual race, and that has been great motivation for me so far. Anyone struggling with motivation might want to pick a race in their area and sign up for it.Good luck all.

nice job. What is your goal time for the 5k?

 

[meeka]

Just ran my 4th time this week at 2.25 miles. This weekend I will move it up to 2.5. 3 miles is looking like it should be no problem by April. When I hit 2 miles I feel like I could probably keep going for a while, but want to pace myself so I do not burn out.I am getting pretty excited to participate in an actual race, and that has been great motivation for me so far. Anyone struggling with motivation might want to pick a race in their area and sign up for it.Good luck all.

nice job. What is your goal time for the 5k?

No goal at this time. I am running 11 minute miles right now, but my goal for the 5K will be under 25 minutes. I hope to be running 5+ miles by then, so I should be able to work on speed in the next 2 months. The race is actually 2 months from today, so plenty of time. I will probably fine tune my goal as I get closer. My real goal right now is the 5K in April. An 8K in June, and a 10K in August.

 

[El Floppo]

Great job keeping it up you guys!

I should've mentioned this great training workout a while ago... hell, maybe I did and I'm just too lazy to go back and look.

Out and Backs.

- Pick an overall time you want to run- 20 mins, 30 mins- whatever.

- Run out from an easily identifiable starting place with your stop watch going.

- Run 5 minutes exactly- remember where you are at the 5 minute mark- turn around and run back to the starting place.

- Time it so you get back to the starting place at 5 minutes.

---- This makes it so you keep an even pace in your run, which is 10 minutes so far.

- Turn right around and run back out the same direction for 5 minutes

- Go further than the previous 5 minute spot, remembering the new spot- turn around and run back to the start.

- Time it so you get back to the starting place in exactly 5 minutes.

---- 20 minutes in the bank. Rinse. Repeat as needed.

As you can guess, this works on your pacing and also incorporates a little bit of speed work. You obviously don't want to go out too hard (something EVERYBODY who races does without even trying) or you're going to screw yourself on the subsequent out and backs. Do this once per week in your workouts.

Another great thing about this workout is that you can do it with a group of friends who run, regardless of the varying paces people are capable of running (always a problem of somebody having to run faster or slower than they normally would to match pace) you all end up back at the start at the same time, regardless of where your turnaround spot is.

Once you get your legs under you after a few of these workouts, throw in 20 squats back at the start between each out and back. This will load your legs, simulating the burn your legs will feel at the end of the race (or when getting off the bike and starting your run in a triathlon).

Meanwhile... my wife is pregnant and I'm gaining more weight than her. This training you guys are doing is inspiring me (albeit from the safety of my sofa) to get back on the horse myself. Keep up the great work!

 

[GStrot]

Great job keeping it up you guys!

I should've mentioned this great training workout a while ago... hell, maybe I did and I'm just too lazy to go back and look.

Out and Backs.

- Pick an overall time you want to run- 20 mins, 30 mins- whatever.

- Run out from an easily identifiable starting place with your stop watch going.

- Run 5 minutes exactly- remember where you are at the 5 minute mark- turn around and run back to the starting place.

- Time it so you get back to the starting place at 5 minutes.

---- This makes it so you keep an even pace in your run, which is 10 minutes so far.

- Turn right around and run back out the same direction for 5 minutes

- Go further than the previous 5 minute spot, remembering the new spot- turn around and run back to the start.

- Time it so you get back to the starting place in exactly 5 minutes.

---- 20 minutes in the bank. Rinse. Repeat as needed.

As you can guess, this works on your pacing and also incorporates a little bit of speed work. You obviously don't want to go out too hard (something EVERYBODY who races does without even trying) or you're going to screw yourself on the subsequent out and backs. Do this once per week in your workouts.

Another great thing about this workout is that you can do it with a group of friends who run, regardless of the varying paces people are capable of running (always a problem of somebody having to run faster or slower than they normally would to match pace) you all end up back at the start at the same time, regardless of where your turnaround spot is.

Once you get your legs under you after a few of these workouts, throw in 20 squats back at the start between each out and back. This will load your legs, simulating the burn your legs will feel at the end of the race (or when getting off the bike and starting your run in a triathlon).

Meanwhile... my wife is pregnant and I'm gaining more weight than her. This training you guys are doing is inspiring me (albeit from the safety of my sofa) to get back on the horse myself. Keep up the great work!

Ran another 1.5 miles today as per the Higdon 5k training schedule. Took me about 14 minutes for a total of 19 minutes and 1.8 miles with warmup, etc. Part of me wants to go longer to see if I can do it when I am running but I am so reluctant to get up in the morning to run now that I would hate to see what happens if I really wear myself out. Babysteps (so to speak).

 

[wraith5]

Ran another 1.5 miles today as per the Higdon 5k training schedule. Took me about 14 minutes for a total of 19 minutes and 1.8 miles with warmup, etc. Part of me wants to go longer to see if I can do it when I am running but I am so reluctant to get up in the morning to run now that I would hate to see what happens if I really wear myself out. Babysteps (so to speak).

Good job - how are you feeling after the runs so far? Hal knows what he's doing when he designs these things, but if you feel like the mileage isn't challenging, you can always bump to the 8k training program at some point. I've done 7 runs (6 treadmill) in 11 days - don't remember the last time I did that. The recent snow will probably keep me from running outside this weekend, so I guess I better find something interesting to watch if I'm going to do 6 miles again... either that or I'm running on streets.

 

[meeka]

Just ran my 4th time this week at 2.25 miles. This weekend I will move it up to 2.5. 3 miles is looking like it should be no problem by April. When I hit 2 miles I feel like I could probably keep going for a while, but want to pace myself so I do not burn out.I am getting pretty excited to participate in an actual race, and that has been great motivation for me so far. Anyone struggling with motivation might want to pick a race in their area and sign up for it.Good luck all.

meeka - keep at it! And I'd say: Don't be shy about pushing it out to 3 miles. That shouldn't burn you out at all. Just stretch after the run and get some fluids and food in you after the run as well.

Well I just put in a 3.1 mile run. After a 1 minute warm up I set the treadmill to 5.7 MPH and ran for the 5K distance. The first mile sucked (as usual) but after I got to 2 miles the next 1.1 was not that tough. Not a very fast pace, but it felt good to get in that distance. 8+ weeks to work on a quicker pace. I did some stretch out before and after I ran. I usually do not, but I think now that I am over 2 miles I should probably make that a part of the routine. Now I just need to make sure I go back and run tomorrow again.

 

[tri-man 47]

Way to go, meeka!

I ran outside this morning in a bit of new Chicago snow (and before the midday sun came out to warm things up ..oh well). Tomorrow's a long marathon training run, but the temp is supposed to be in the 20's, which is tolerable. I'm waiting for that late February thaw and some 40 degree weather!

 

[El Floppo]

Way to go, meeka!I ran outside this morning in a bit of new Chicago snow (and before the midday sun came out to warm things up ..oh well). Tomorrow's a long marathon training run, but the temp is supposed to be in the 20's, which is tolerable. I'm waiting for that late February thaw and some 40 degree weather!

The snow/ice running is GREAT triathlon training- makes you keep your stride short (for higher turnover). What Marathon are you doing? I'm still signed up for NYC, but I haven't run a yard in months... absolute props to you for going out there in the freezing muck.Gstot... Unless you're feeling really fresh after the runs, stick to the schedule- no reason to throw yourself back and offschedule by overdoing one day. If you're feeling fresh regularly after runs, I like the advice of bumping up to the next Didn't look that closely at your schedule, but everything I've alwyas done is based around 4 week cycles: 3 weeks intensive, 1 week recovery. The recovery weeks aren't "off" weeks, they're just weeks with less mileage/intensity. Your body needs these to, well... recover. You'll find you don't get stuck in the training/fitness plateaus as frequently or for as long when you do this versus just training straight through.

 

[RoarinSonoran]

I took a 3mile walk today (after 2mile walks each of the past two Mondays). I still have a bit of discomfort in my left hamstring (cause? result? of my IT-band problem), so I haven't started running again just yet (doctor's orders). Hopefully I can get it going soon, as I want to run the Country Music Marathon in Nashville at the end of April.

 

[El Floppo]

I took a 3mile walk today (after 2mile walks each of the past two Mondays). I still have a bit of discomfort in my left hamstring (cause? result? of my IT-band problem), so I haven't started running again just yet (doctor's orders). Hopefully I can get it going soon, as I want to run the Country Music Marathon in Nashville at the end of April.

Heal up fast! I know we're all pulling for you to rock all rock marathons... I can't believe you're thinking about your next marathon so soon after the last one... amazing!

 

[RoarinSonoran]

I took a 3mile walk today (after 2mile walks each of the past two Mondays). I still have a bit of discomfort in my left hamstring (cause? result? of my IT-band problem), so I haven't started running again just yet (doctor's orders). Hopefully I can get it going soon, as I want to run the Country Music Marathon in Nashville at the end of April.

Heal up fast! I know we're all pulling for you to rock all rock marathons... I can't believe you're thinking about your next marathon so soon after the last one... amazing!

I'm not crazy, but I am a carrier. It'll be 3.5months between P.F. Chang's (the one I did last month) and Country Music, but the real fun begins after that. The Rock 'n Roll Marathon in San Diego is a mere FIVE WEEKS after CMM. However, I'm thinking of training as if I was only doing SD, and using CMM as the "long run" in my training (normally a 20mile run, followed by a four week taper leading to the race). An easy 26.2 (relatively) and a five week taper should be ok. If I was in the TNT program for SD, I'd only be two weeks behind schedule right now, so I'll evaluate my leg this week with a couple more walks and consider a run next weekend.

 

[El Floppo]

I took a 3mile walk today (after 2mile walks each of the past two Mondays). I still have a bit of discomfort in my left hamstring (cause? result? of my IT-band problem), so I haven't started running again just yet (doctor's orders). Hopefully I can get it going soon, as I want to run the Country Music Marathon in Nashville at the end of April.

Heal up fast! I know we're all pulling for you to rock all rock marathons... I can't believe you're thinking about your next marathon so soon after the last one... amazing!

I'm not crazy, but I am a carrier. It'll be 3.5months between P.F. Chang's (the one I did last month) and Country Music, but the real fun begins after that. The Rock 'n Roll Marathon in San Diego is a mere FIVE WEEKS after CMM. However, I'm thinking of training as if I was only doing SD, and using CMM as the "long run" in my training (normally a 20mile run, followed by a four week taper leading to the race). An easy 26.2 (relatively) and a five week taper should be ok. If I was in the TNT program for SD, I'd only be two weeks behind schedule right now, so I'll evaluate my leg this week with a couple more walks and consider a run next weekend.

Better you than me....

TNT alum myself... the cultish factor creeps me out, as does the sheer numbers of goofy, purple clad TNTers at all the events causing havoc. But it's still a GREAT program, especially for novices (which I was in triathlons). I still use a lot of those training schedules...

ETA: your plan sounds good- just making Country Music your long training run- makes a lot of sense. Any luck getting "sponsors" for airfare?

 

[tri-man 47]

El Floppo - I'm planning on running the Mad City Marathon in Madison, WI on Memorial Day weekend. So far, so good. A strong seven mile pace run yesterday and then fifteen miles today. This is more mileage than I've ever done before (my early running years incorporated a lot of speed work for 5Ks, versus pure distance running). This is exciting though - I can feel and see the additional development in my leg muscles, which I expect will translate over to my tri-biking (and possibly the swimming). I'm using the Hal Higdon Intermediate II schedule, and I'm actually a few weeks ahead of that schedule.

Sonoran, hopefully you heal up soon. Be smart with that!

 

[pigskinliquors]

El Floppo - I'm planning on running the Mad City Marathon in Madison, WI on Memorial Day weekend. So far, so good. A strong seven mile pace run yesterday and then fifteen miles today. This is more mileage than I've ever done before (my early running years incorporated a lot of speed work for 5Ks, versus pure distance running). This is exciting though - I can feel and see the additional development in my leg muscles, which I expect will translate over to my tri-biking (and possibly the swimming). I'm using the Hal Higdon Intermediate II schedule, and I'm actually a few weeks ahead of that schedule. Sonoran, hopefully you heal up soon. Be smart with that!

Great to hear that you training is progressing tri-man! At the stage you are in right now, it's time to be very careful with you mileage and pace. It gets really difficult to "back-off" on your pace with the longer runs, as your legs are getting stronger. Virtually every injury I've ever had has been in the next couple of long runs that you'll do. Do a little pace in some miles late in your long runs, to get your legs used to "running" while tired. You will have zero problem running at pace on the race day as long as you don't overextend yourself getting there. Keep it up! Mad-town will be an awesome place for your first!~Liquor

 

[RoarinSonoran]

ETA: your plan sounds good- just making Country Music your long training run- makes a lot of sense. Any luck getting "sponsors" for airfare?

Nope, no luck. I'm beginning to think that the "FBG resume" (six-figure income, supermodel wife, bench 500lbs, etc) might just be a crock.

Sonoran, hopefully you heal up soon. Be smart with that!

Thanks. My main problem is recognizing a problem. My leg started acting up perhaps six weeks prior to the race, but I pretty much shook it off ("meh, it's just a sore muscle"; plus it went away fairly quickly after a run). By the time I got to the "uh oh, this is looking like a serious injury" stage, it was two weeks before the race. Even then, I figured I'd just RICE it and it would be ok. It wasn't til the night before the race that I really considered that I might not even be able to finish, and yet my back-up plan was to walk the damned thing if necessary. lol

 

[meeka]

Went for another 3.1 yesterday. My body is sore (mostly my back) today, and I will probably take the day off from running. I will try to do the 3.1 two more times during the week and then probably add some distance again this weekend.

I am really enjoying the challenge of running and pushing myself, so I will just keep at it. My new goals are to continue to improve my 5K speed, and get my distance out to 5 or 6 miles before my 5K in April.

It is great to hear about all the long distance runners in here. The thought of running that far seems crazy at this point, but I have to admit that thoughts of a half marathon next spring are in the back of my head.

 

[culdeus]

Getting back in shape sucks. I've lost all ability to climb in the offseason. I've got a LOT of work to do.

 

[tri-man 47]

pigskin - good point about the pace on the long runs. That's the thing Hal Higdon emphasizes, too. Little is gained with pushing the speed on the long runs, especially coming off of a rather strong run the day before.

meeka - again, nicely done!

culdeus - I've read of one triathlete who purposefully lets himself get out of shape just for the challenge of losing the weight and getting back into shape! That seems rather nutty. Like you say, it's really not fun gearing back up again. But keep at it ...it will come.

 

[culdeus]

I think I've got about 10 solid pounds to lose. It won't be a problem. Pounds just melt off once I get over about 150 miles a week.

There's a strip of hills in Dallas that we call the gauntlet. It's maybe 1000 feet of 15% climbing stretched out over 2 miles. It's something I'd try to do 4 times back to back to end a ride. Not sure I could even get done with one of those right now. Carrying 10 extra pounds may have something to do with it.

Sigh.

 

[El Floppo]

Getting back in shape sucks. I've lost all ability to climb in the offseason. I've got a LOT of work to do.

Right there with ya... or maybe past ya.I started doing tris 5 years ago- background of soccer and running, but at the starting point of the tri-training I was pushing a deuce (15lbs over my healthy weight) and grossly out of shape for me (running more than 3 miles was tiring). 5 years later- I'm right back where I started from.As for riding, I've lost all ability to... well... all but descend pretty much.Tri-Man- Awesome stuff! 15 miles was just about the most I covered before my IM (I was training with a stress fracture in the foot that kept me from doing longer ones). Sounds like you're going gang-busters!Meeka- Great stuff from you too! Fantastic that you're keeping this up! A question about your back-pain... are you stretching after your runs? That will make a big difference if not.

 

[culdeus]

Getting back in shape sucks. I've lost all ability to climb in the offseason. I've got a LOT of work to do.

Right there with ya... or maybe past ya.I started doing tris 5 years ago- background of soccer and running, but at the starting point of the tri-training I was pushing a deuce (15lbs over my healthy weight) and grossly out of shape for me (running more than 3 miles was tiring). 5 years later- I'm right back where I started from.

As for riding, I've lost all ability to... well... all but descend pretty much.

Tri-Man- Awesome stuff! 15 miles was just about the most I covered before my IM (I was training with a stress fracture in the foot that kept me from doing longer ones). Sounds like you're going gang-busters!

Meeka- Great stuff from you too! Fantastic that you're keeping this up! A question about your back-pain... are you stretching after your runs? That will make a big difference if not.

Getting fat in winter does do wonders for descent speeds!

 

[meeka]

Getting back in shape sucks. I've lost all ability to climb in the offseason. I've got a LOT of work to do.

Right there with ya... or maybe past ya.I started doing tris 5 years ago- background of soccer and running, but at the starting point of the tri-training I was pushing a deuce (15lbs over my healthy weight) and grossly out of shape for me (running more than 3 miles was tiring). 5 years later- I'm right back where I started from.As for riding, I've lost all ability to... well... all but descend pretty much.Tri-Man- Awesome stuff! 15 miles was just about the most I covered before my IM (I was training with a stress fracture in the foot that kept me from doing longer ones). Sounds like you're going gang-busters!Meeka- Great stuff from you too! Fantastic that you're keeping this up! A question about your back-pain... are you stretching after your runs? That will make a big difference if not.

Not a ton of stretching before or after. No stretching as far as my back goes. I will try to add that to the process. Thanks for the tip. Back at it tomorrow.

 

[culdeus]

Saw a good idea on a bike related board. They are just issuing a challenge to have people ride 1000 miles before May. A reasonable goal for average joes.

Maybe we could have a parallel 100 mile run/ 1000 mike bike thread to encourage people or something.

 

[meeka]

Saw a good idea on a bike related board. They are just issuing a challenge to have people ride 1000 miles before May. A reasonable goal for average joes. Maybe we could have a parallel 100 mile run/ 1000 mike bike thread to encourage people or something.

In. Would take a lot of days running only putting in 3 at a time, but I always love a good goal.

 

[MelvinTScupper]

Saw a good idea on a bike related board. They are just issuing a challenge to have people ride 1000 miles before May. A reasonable goal for average joes. Maybe we could have a parallel 100 mile run/ 1000 mike bike thread to encourage people or something.

In. Would take a lot of days running only putting in 3 at a time, but I always love a good goal.

that's only every other day.100 before May is too low. I hope to be averaging 25 a week by end April

 

[IvanKaramazov]

100 before May is too low. I hope to be averaging 25 a week by end April

Agreed. I ran 25 last week and I'm only on week 8 or something of my marathon schedule.

 

[culdeus]

Saw a good idea on a bike related board. They are just issuing a challenge to have people ride 1000 miles before May. A reasonable goal for average joes. Maybe we could have a parallel 100 mile run/ 1000 mike bike thread to encourage people or something.

In. Would take a lot of days running only putting in 3 at a time, but I always love a good goal.

that's only every other day.100 before May is too low. I hope to be averaging 25 a week by end April

You can feel free to set your own goal. I'd like to roll 2500 myself.