Ran a 10k - Official Thread (10 Viewers)

[SFBayDuck]

Still working on my race report, on the road this week so hoping to get it done by Friday.

Jamil Coury just put out some fairly raw video, the first 9 minutes really capture well the #### show that was the high country, as well as the ridiculous specimen that is Jim Walmsley as he cruises through running 5:10 miles on technical terrain.  https://youtu.be/yELeZUxWYrY

 

[SFBayDuck]

Was talking with my daughter last night about googling oneself, and in the process she found the interview I did with Ultrarunner Magazine the day before Western States.  This of course led to one of the most awkward, horrible moments ever at the end - they asked for shout outs for crew/pacers, and while I was sure to mention @tri-man 47 and the rest of the fellas, I totally choked and didn't mention my family!  And I watched this for the first time with my girlfriend and daughter, who had both been out there for me all day (and night).....felt so terrible I may not have a crew going forward (that isn't part of this thread!).

 

[AAABatteries]

I know somebody who is getting another foot rub!

 

[SteelCurtain]

It's called the Jack and Jill Downhill Marathon in Washington state on July 29th. I was feeling pretty good up until the past week and a half. I got sick at the beginning of last week which kind of threw me out of my routine. Then the 4th weekend/Tuesday really messed me up. I went to a party and had a good time Monday night (ate and drank like an animal) and skipped my run on Tuesday. I'm going to try and make it up today which was supposed to be a rest day. In addition to that, pretty sure I gained about 10 pounds over the past 4 days from eating junk. I am going to get back on track. If I would have known how much this would have an impact on my life, I would have never done it. I'm not myself anymore, always tired and kind of cranky. My wife isn't thrilled at all with my training. The only thing I think about is my tough runs coming up. If I don't qualify for Boston (which is seeming to be the likely outcome), this will be the first and last marathon I ever run. I plan on getting my diet right the last 3 weeks and really staying disciplined with everything else. We will see how it goes. Thanks for asking!

This is completely normal.  Your body is being tested and if you don't fuel properly or get enough sleep (this is critical!), then your workouts will reflect it.

My wife gets annoyed with marathon training near the end as well. Let's face it, I get cranky with it.  However, you are on the edge of accomplishing something most people can't even comprehend.  You will learn a lot about racing marathons during this race.  Regardless of whether you BQ or not, is irrelevant in many ways....especially since its your first marathon.  You have accomplished much just doing this much training.  Rest up.  Eat well.  Enjoy the race!

 

[parasaurolophus]

Been a while since i have been in here, but didnt want to constantly debbie downer this thread. I have had a lot of injury issues that have involved more doctors and tests than i ever care to mention, but i think i am finally on the home stretch. Been consistently running 4-5 days a week for a few months and long run is up to 9 miles. 

My feet still fall asleep regularly and i still get the weird throbbing and cramping in my calves now and again, but there isnt a total fix so i will just have to deal with it. Its a nerve issue stemming from my back. I actually cant stand in one place for more than like 10 seconds. I have to sleep in a pretty exact position. I cant be barefoot pretty much ever. Had to put fatigue mats in front of my daughters changing table and crib just so when i had to be there quickly i didnt have to worry about throwing shoes on first. I am sure people think i am nutso for pretty much having to constantly be on the move and look like i am a hyperactive child. 

On a very positive note though, i feel best during and after runs. In fact if my feet were asleep and i lace up and go, i feel perfectly normal in minutes. 

Seeing one more doctor on the 11th. If he cant help, i can at least live with where it has been managed to. 

Currently training to help my sister complete a 50 miler. I had pipe dreams of running the whole thing, but i simply wont be ready in time. My hope is to get her through 20 miles in the beginning and the last 6.2. I figure thats safe since i am right at same mileage levels of my first marathon but with a stronger base and two extra weeks to prepare and will have a big rest in middle. 

 

[ChiefD]

Been a while since i have been in here, but didnt want to constantly debbie downer this thread. I have had a lot of injury issues that have involved more doctors and tests than i ever care to mention, but i think i am finally on the home stretch. Been consistently running 4-5 days a week for a few months and long run is up to 9 miles. 

My feet still fall asleep regularly and i still get the weird throbbing and cramping in my calves now and again, but there isnt a total fix so i will just have to deal with it. Its a nerve issue stemming from my back. I actually cant stand in one place for more than like 10 seconds. I have to sleep in a pretty exact position. I cant be barefoot pretty much ever. Had to put fatigue mats in front of my daughters changing table and crib just so when i had to be there quickly i didnt have to worry about throwing shoes on first. I am sure people think i am nutso for pretty much having to constantly be on the move and look like i am a hyperactive child. 

On a very positive note though, i feel best during and after runs. In fact if my feet were asleep and i lace up and go, i feel perfectly normal in minutes. 

Seeing one more doctor on the 11th. If he cant help, i can at least live with where it has been managed to. 

Currently training to help my sister complete a 50 miler. I had pipe dreams of running the whole thing, but i simply wont be ready in time. My hope is to get her through 20 miles in the beginning and the last 6.2. I figure thats safe since i am right at same mileage levels of my first marathon but with a stronger base and two extra weeks to prepare and will have a big rest in middle. 

Man, hope they figure out what it is.

I had a guy at work who had a lot of the same symptoms as you. He had peripheral neuropathy I believe. Anyway, he was diagnosed as diabetic, and this was one of the results of it.

I'm guessing you've been tested already for this, but might be something to look into.

Hope you feel better. 

 

[parasaurolophus]

Man, hope they figure out what it is.

I had a guy at work who had a lot of the same symptoms as you. He had peripheral neuropathy I believe. Anyway, he was diagnosed as diabetic, and this was one of the results of it.

I'm guessing you've been tested already for this, but might be something to look into.

Hope you feel better. 

My wife will love this post. I am not saying this to be mean or sarcastic. She will laugh. We always joke about how the internet wants me to be diabetic. She sometimes refers to me as the Undercover Diabetic. Almost any time I have some sort of minor health issue one of the first things mentioned on webmd or wherever when we look it up is how it is either common in diabetics or to get tested for it. It runs in my family. My sister is diabetic. My grandpa and my uncle are both diabetic. I am constantly thirsty. I pee all the time, get vertigo, etc etc. Been tested many times and they say I am not diabetic. Not even close to borderline. I even have my own testing supplies just to periodically check my blood sugar and figured I would test my son once a year just to be safe due to family history on my side and my ex wife's side.   

 

[tri-man 47]

Was talking with my daughter last night about googling oneself, and in the process she found the interview I did with Ultrarunner Magazine the day before Western States.  This of course led to one of the most awkward, horrible moments ever at the end - they asked for shout outs for crew/pacers, and while I was sure to mention @tri-man 47 and the rest of the fellas, I totally choked and didn't mention my family!  And I watched this for the first time with my girlfriend and daughter, who had both been out there for me all day (and night).....felt so terrible I may not have a crew going forward (that isn't part of this thread!).

In fairness, I was standing about 10 feet away, and you'd just mentioned Jim.  So the 'friends' crew was on your mind.  But still, you might have a hard time getting them to forget that oversight!  

Love the previous video ...wow, wow, wow.

 

[BassNBrew]

Was talking with my daughter last night about googling oneself, and in the process she found the interview I did with Ultrarunner Magazine the day before Western States.  This of course led to one of the most awkward, horrible moments ever at the end - they asked for shout outs for crew/pacers, and while I was sure to mention @tri-man 47 and the rest of the fellas, I totally choked and didn't mention my family!  And I watched this for the first time with my girlfriend and daughter, who had both been out there for me all day (and night).....felt so terrible I may not have a crew going forward (that isn't part of this thread!).

Was she stoned while doing this interview?

 

[ChiefD]

Still working on my race report, on the road this week so hoping to get it done by Friday.

Jamil Coury just put out some fairly raw video, the first 9 minutes really capture well the #### show that was the high country, as well as the ridiculous specimen that is Jim Walmsley as he cruises through running 5:10 miles on technical terrain.  https://youtu.be/yELeZUxWYrY

So this guy ran UP the course and through the course to shoot video?    And he wasn't even in the race?

Unreal. He might be crazier than the rest of you crazies!

but thank you for the video crazy guy. that was awesome

 

[SteelCurtain]

Still working on my race report, on the road this week so hoping to get it done by Friday.

Jamil Coury just put out some fairly raw video, the first 9 minutes really capture well the #### show that was the high country, as well as the ridiculous specimen that is Jim Walmsley as he cruises through running 5:10 miles on technical terrain.  https://youtu.be/yELeZUxWYrY

Walmsley is an absolute madman going through that terrain at that pace.   (Its at the 6 minute mark on the video)

 

[Nigel]

I'm dealing with a painful bruise on my left butt cheek that is making my Peloton rides very uncomfortable. 

On July 4th morning after a long day/night of drinking on the beach on a very hot day I set out on an iced coffee run. I was feeling fine, might have still had a little buzz on. But when I got to Dunkin and was walking from my car into the store I started feeling a little bit off, kind of shaky and light headed, so when I got inside I went and sat down instead of getting in line. I sat there for 5 minutes or so and watched the line grow. Place was jammed. I wasn't feeling any better but felt like I needed to get in line or I'd never get out of there. I remember standing with my hand on a display case for support and thinking to myself "what the #### am I going to do when the line moves forward and I'll have nothing to hold on to?"

Next thing I know I open my eyes, I'm on the ground, and there are three women kneeling around me, and a circle of others standing surrounding me, welcoming me back to consciousness, asking if I know where I am, etc. They helped me to my feet and brought me to a couch. They wanted to call an ambulance but I was already feeling better and asked them not to. Offers to call my wife, drive me home, follow me home...they were all so nice and caring, but I said I'd be fine if I just sat for a bit, it had been a late night and I must be dehydrated. The store manager brought me a water and a donut, and the 8 iced coffees I'd come for in the first place (no charge!) and I just sat there and got my #### together for 20 minutes then drove back to the beach house. 

When I got back the house was the same way I left it, jammed with extended family and neighbors waiting for their coffees, and I didn't have the energy or interest in telling anyone what happened. Given my heart history I wasn't looking to worry anyone. When asked what took so long I just said I forgot Geno's coffee and had to go back. 

I've got a bruised elbow and a small lump on the back of my head, but thankfully my left ### took the brunt of it. It ####### kills. And oddly enough, besides the kind folks at the DD on 139 in Marshfield, you guys are the only ones who know. 

 

[SteelCurtain]

I'm dealing with a painful bruise on my left butt cheek that is making my Peloton rides very uncomfortable. 

On July 4th morning after a long day/night of drinking on the beach on a very hot day I set out on an iced coffee run. I was feeling fine, might have still had a little buzz on. But when I got to Dunkin and was walking from my car into the store I started feeling a little bit off, kind of shaky and light headed, so when I got inside I went and sat down instead of getting in line. I sat there for 5 minutes or so and watched the line grow. Place was jammed. I wasn't feeling any better but felt like I needed to get in line or I'd never get out of there. I remember standing with my hand on a display case for support and thinking to myself "what the #### am I going to do when the line moves forward and I'll have nothing to hold on to?"

Next thing I know I open my eyes, I'm on the ground, and there are three women kneeling around me, and a circle of others standing surrounding me, welcoming me back to consciousness, asking if I know where I am, etc. They helped me to my feet and brought me to a couch. They wanted to call an ambulance but I was already feeling better and asked them not to. Offers to call my wife, drive me home, follow me home...they were all so nice and caring, but I said I'd be fine if I just sat for a bit, it had been a late night and I must be dehydrated. The store manager brought me a water and a donut, and the 8 iced coffees I'd come for in the first place (no charge!) and I just sat there and got my #### together for 20 minutes then drove back to the beach house. 

When I got back the house was the same way I left it, jammed with extended family and neighbors waiting for their coffees, and I didn't have the energy or interest in telling anyone what happened. Given my heart history I wasn't looking to worry anyone. When asked what took so long I just said I forgot Geno's coffee and had to go back. 

I've got a bruised elbow and a small lump on the back of my head, but thankfully my left ### took the brunt of it. It ####### kills. And oddly enough, besides the kind folks at the DD on 139 in Marshfield, you guys are the only ones who know. 

Yikes!  Be careful.  I had the same issue (dizziness) when I had an arrhythmia.

in terms of your butt, my piriformis is often sore from running and it feels like its a butt bruise but its actually a tight muscle in the butt.  Just something to look into. 

Good luck....and getting old sucks.

 

[-OZ-]

Was talking with my daughter last night about googling oneself, and in the process she found the interview I did with Ultrarunner Magazine the day before Western States.  This of course led to one of the most awkward, horrible moments ever at the end - they asked for shout outs for crew/pacers, and while I was sure to mention @tri-man 47 and the rest of the fellas, I totally choked and didn't mention my family!  And I watched this for the first time with my girlfriend and daughter, who had both been out there for me all day (and night).....felt so terrible I may not have a crew going forward (that isn't part of this thread!).

If it makes you feel any better I completely omitted my wife in my first promotion speech.  Never made that mistake again. 

 

[-OZ-]

On the good news front it looks like I'll start work next Thursday

Good news part 2 - we were told we could travel to China at the end of July. All the paperwork appears to be almost done.  

However, due to starting the new job (and other family stuff) we're leaning towards waiting to the end of August to travel.

 

[Osaurus]

Backed out of my 7 mile trail run Saturday night.  Heat and humidity have been kicking my ### lately so while I could finish it without issue, I decided I could use a break this month. It's also not worth driving up to BFE FL and spending the night.  The race was sold out so they were looking to credit folks for the run next year if they backed out so I will run it next year. The weather at night has not been helpful either  most weeknights.  I added a 10k bridge (new) run next month so still on track to do 17.  Heading to gym tonight and maybe do a shorter run (for me) tomorrow night weather permitting.  

 

[ChiefD]

I'm dealing with a painful bruise on my left butt cheek

Paging @tri-man 47. 

Your massaging services are needed.

 

[tri-man 47]

Paging @tri-man 47. 

Your massaging services are needed.

I could borrow the Squirrel's Nut Butter from Duck, but Nigel needs butt butter, not nut butter.  So he's on his own.

Nigel, hopefully it was just dehydration (and I'd guess that's the case).

 

[Ned]

I'm dealing with a painful bruise on my left butt cheek that is making my Peloton rides very uncomfortable. 

On July 4th morning after a long day/night of drinking on the beach on a very hot day I set out on an iced coffee run. I was feeling fine, might have still had a little buzz on. But when I got to Dunkin and was walking from my car into the store I started feeling a little bit off, kind of shaky and light headed, so when I got inside I went and sat down instead of getting in line. I sat there for 5 minutes or so and watched the line grow. Place was jammed. I wasn't feeling any better but felt like I needed to get in line or I'd never get out of there. I remember standing with my hand on a display case for support and thinking to myself "what the #### am I going to do when the line moves forward and I'll have nothing to hold on to?"

Next thing I know I open my eyes, I'm on the ground, and there are three women kneeling around me, and a circle of others standing surrounding me, welcoming me back to consciousness, asking if I know where I am, etc. They helped me to my feet and brought me to a couch. They wanted to call an ambulance but I was already feeling better and asked them not to. Offers to call my wife, drive me home, follow me home...they were all so nice and caring, but I said I'd be fine if I just sat for a bit, it had been a late night and I must be dehydrated. The store manager brought me a water and a donut, and the 8 iced coffees I'd come for in the first place (no charge!) and I just sat there and got my #### together for 20 minutes then drove back to the beach house. 

When I got back the house was the same way I left it, jammed with extended family and neighbors waiting for their coffees, and I didn't have the energy or interest in telling anyone what happened. Given my heart history I wasn't looking to worry anyone. When asked what took so long I just said I forgot Geno's coffee and had to go back. 

I've got a bruised elbow and a small lump on the back of my head, but thankfully my left ### took the brunt of it. It ####### kills. And oddly enough, besides the kind folks at the DD on 139 in Marshfield, you guys are the only ones who know. 

They have a couch in your DD?

 

[AAABatteries]

Mmmm, butt butter.

 

[Nigel]

They have a couch in your DD?

Not typical but yeah, this one has a comfy seating area

 

[SayWhat?]

@JShare87 - Trust the process man!  You've made it this far, don't let so many negative thoughts creep in now. 

@ThreeThousand - I have no road rash advice, but glad to hear you're ok.  Part of my hesitation in getting more into road biking is exactly that.  #i'maninny

@SteelCurtain - Nice race!  Absolutely slayed that 4th mile.  Great report.

@SFBayDuck - Oops!  You've got some making up to do with the lady friend...good luck with that! 

@Nigel - Man, tread lightly in not telling your wife about your incident.  I know you're thinking it's likely to cause more trouble than it's worth, but with previous heart issues that's no joke.  Hope you're ok. 

@parasaurolophus - Glad you're somewhat figuring your issues out.  I too was going to suggest a diabetes check, but scratch that then.  Certainly seems somehow nerve related then.  Good luck in your march to continued improvement.

I keep reading and listening to so many people talking about the brutal conditions at Western States.   The recaps, race reports, and videos have been fascinating.  Damn impressive for those that toed the line and even more so for those that finished.  It's made me more and more regretful of dropping at Kettle Moraine, and thus pushing me closer and closer to getting back into a race yet this year with the most likely at this stage being Rio Del Lago 100.  Waiting for Duck's race report to give me that final bit of motivation.  (No pressure Duck.)

So my 5 year old daughter has really taken off on her bike over the past 6 weeks or so.  Talk about some great interval training!  Slooooooow up the hills (sometimes needing a bit of assistance) and then just BOMBS the downhills.  Giving me some differing workouts, that's for sure. 

 

[gruecd]

All I know is if I keep training in this heat and humidity all summer, I'm gonna be an absolute BEAST when it cools off this fall! 

 

[SFBayDuck]

I keep reading and listening to so many people talking about the brutal conditions at Western States.   The recaps, race reports, and videos have been fascinating.  Damn impressive for those that toed the line and even more so for those that finished.  It's made me more and more regretful of dropping at Kettle Moraine, and thus pushing me closer and closer to getting back into a race yet this year with the most likely at this stage being Rio Del Lago 100.  Waiting for Duck's race report to give me that final bit of motivation.  (No pressure Duck.)

Me too, the reports are just brutal from elites and regular people like me.  It was a rough day for damned near everyone.  It's making me feel a lot better about missing my time goal by that much, as the challenge for so many that day was just getting to that finish line in time.

And I'm sitting at the San Diego airport waiting to board a flight and working on the race report.  It's just taking me longer to get through than I expected - I cover 10-15 miles in a few paragraphs, and then I need to step away from it.  Not sure why, haven't experienced that before.  I don't have many pics or anything yet, but I'll hopefully have the basic rough draft done in the next day or so.

 

[pbm107]

And I'm sitting at the San Diego airport waiting to board a flight and working on the race report.  It's just taking me longer to get through than I expected - I cover 10-15 miles in a few paragraphs, and then I need to step away from it.

It's understandable that it is taking some time, you have so much to be proud of - the work that went into it and the will you demonstrated powering through to finish. At the same time I am sure you went to some dark places during the race and it may not be easy to relive it. I am looking forward to reading the report.

 

[-OZ-]

All I know is if I keep training in this heat and humidity all summer, I'm gonna be an absolute BEAST when it cools off this fall! 

https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/us-states-worst-summers

4. ALABAMA

The People of Alabama asked the Lord that He grant them their worldly right to play Football in All Seasons and the Lord granted this wish with mild winters and hot, sunny summers. But then the People went back to the Lord and asked if maybe He could tamp down the Humidity a tad because of Perspiration Issues and also if he knew anything about the Mosquito Problem, but then the Lord mentioned something about telling Moses to make a fiery serpent and set it on a pole and The People kind of just left it Alone and so now here We are.

 

[JShare87]

Really struggling still. I wake up around 3:45 am, as I do on most Saturday mornings to beat the heat for my long run. I had a grueling 20 miles ahead of me in 150+ SI with only about 5 hours of sleep. I said to myself, "just do what you can and be done with it." Well, after pouring a pack of salt/electrolytes into my mouth, 3 gels, and 2 bottles of water, I was only halfway there, 10 miles in.

I've touched on my struggles and frustrations the past few weeks but it's been a little more than I've talked about. Truth is, I've been throwing up on and off for about the past week and a half. I've thrown up multiple times on 4 different days in that span. I'm not sure what is going on with me, but I've tried to keep training throughout. The reason I keep training is because my mind keeps telling me that I have came too far to quit now. On top of the stomach issues, I have absolutely zero energy, like none.  My wife knows I haven't been feeling well lately, but has no clue to the extent of it (I just keep saying I'm tired). My attempts at running this week have all failed miserably and left me wondering what the hell I am doing and why I am doing it.

That brings me to around 5:45 this morning. I am 10 miles into my run, completely soaked as if I had jumped in a pool with my socks, shoes, and shorts on. But I am no longer running, I am sitting on a park bench at 5:45 am in absolute pitch black. On top of being soaked, I have white residue all over my body (have no clue what the hell it is). And all I could do was ask myself, "what are you doing?" I am pretty sure I hit a new low in that park. I didn't move from that bench for about 10 minutes. I just kept thinking and looking around into the blackness........

 

[Ned]

You're overtraining IMO. Puking that much is our body begging for a break.  So take one.  Screw what the schedule says.  Screw what your ego says.  Take a break.

The white residue is totally normal - it's just salt left behind after some sweat has evaporated from your skin. 

 

[SayWhat?]

You're overtraining IMO. Puking that much is our body begging for a break.  So take one.  Screw what the schedule says.  Screw what your ego says.  Take a break.

The white residue is totally normal - it's just salt left behind after some sweat has evaporated from your skin. 

This x10.  You're pushing through when it's now clear (puking, zero energy, etc) that you shouldn't be.  Take a week off and let your body reset.  Go for a walk here or there if you want to be active.

 

[Nigel]

Damn JShare, not sure what to tell you. I know you went into this with an all or nothing mentality but the summer marathon training in Florida seems damn near impossible. You need more sleep but getting to bed at 8 is likely not an option. I don't know if you're mentally ready to go there but dialing back expectations (and training) and using this first marathon as a test drive, then training during the winter for the BQ attempt in the spring might be an option. 

Whatever happens your determination is admirable. Hope you feel better.

 

[SteelCurtain]

Agree with all that has been said. 

You have worked so hard to get here.  But its time to take a step back.  Your body is revolting and telling you its too much.  If I were in your shoes, I would take a week off.  Adjust your training plan for the marathon.  You should still run this marathon, but qualifying for Boston may not be in the cards.  The experience of running a marathon is awesome.  You have done the training, so go do this marathon and enjoy it.  Be ready....miles 20-26.2 are likely going to suck, but not suck to the point of vomiting.  Then you will have accomplished what very few do....completing a marathon. 

After running one marathon, you may get the bug and want to try a second.  You will have learned so much from this training cycle that you'll have much more informed training cycles in the future.

You aren't a failure if you don't qualify for Boston.  I finally qualified for Boston 2018 after 9 (yes, nine) marathons.  If it was easy to run a marathon, then everyone would do it.  If qualifying for Boston was easy, then every marathoner would do it.  

I'm amazed at your training cycle.  Take a break this week.  Finish the training cycle and go enjoy your marathon experience.....you have earned it.

 

[Juxtatarot]

Damn JShare, not sure what to tell you. I know you went into this with an all or nothing mentality but the summer marathon training in Florida seems damn near impossible. You need more sleep but getting to bed at 8 is likely not an option. I don't know if you're mentally ready to go there but dialing back expectations (and training) and using this first marathon as a test drive, then training during the winter for the BQ attempt in the spring might be an option. 

Whatever happens your determination is admirable. Hope you feel better.

  Exactly what I was thinking.

 

[Brony]

I was thinking that JShare isn't getting enough niacin, but I would probably go with the advice of guys that have run a marathon. 

 

[bushdocda]

Damn @JShare87 that's tough to read - if you had a coach they'd be pulling you back as these experienced guys are suggesting. Coaches job with driven athletes is more often pulling back than than pushing. 

You can take a week to enjoy your summer (teacher,right?) and sleep past 4am (awesome!). Swim and walk some and more good food & water and see how you feel next weekend/week for a couple training runs or extended taper. You still have a great run in you at the end of the month.

See if you can rest as good as you can train. 

It's like the 'summer of George' episode of Seinfeld but different and only a week. 

Good luck!

 

[SFBayDuck]

Pretty much what everyone else has said, @JShare87.  Take off a couple of days at least, get extra sleep, and see if your system normalizes a bit.  If it does, take off another day or two, then get ease back into it.  If it doesn't, then might be time to see a doc to see if something else is off.  But I would bet it's just your body struggling to get through this first marathon training cycle in what sounds like brutal conditions most of the time.  And I'd think SI like that would make not just running tough, but recovery as well.

 

[Juxtatarot]

Also @JShare87  Don't fear the treadmill in an air conditioned room/building!

 

[gianmarco]

Alright, I'm going to venture into this thread.  I'm a little scared.

Being completely honest, I hate running.  I've always hated running.  I love playing sports and used to play them for hours when I was younger (tennis, basketball, whatever....).  But just running has never been fun for me and the few times I've tried it I couldn't get into it and used to get lower back pain shortly afterward.

Well, my wife is a runner (did her first half marathon a few years ago) and does it on a regular basis now.  She recently did an 82 mile trail relay that I was the driver for and have to admit it was fun to be around it and see a race for the first time.  And, because one of the runners had to drop out near the end, I actually ran the last leg (2.6 miles) just to do it.  I don't think I've ever run more than a mile but was able to get it done with a combo of running and walking in about 27 minutes.  And this was with regular tennis shoes (not running shoes) that ended up killing some toes.

Well, fast forward a few weeks and I've bought some running shoes (first pair I've ever owned) and I've used the treadmill here a few times to do some cardio work for the first time.  During that race, I was probably walking about 2 minutes in (don't laugh), but now after just a few times, I've been able to run a mile at a 10 minute pace pretty comfortably and finally don't have any back pain after running.  The shoes really make a huge difference.

So now there's a 5k coming up in October that I want to run with my wife.  I figure now, with the right shoes, and a little bit of running, this will actually be fun.  I wasn't going to do any "training" as I know if I just keep bumping it up just a little I can get this thing done.  Except yesterday she asks me about looking up some training so that we can try and do it at an 8:30 minute pace .  I'm like, "uh, I was just hoping to finish without having to walk". 

The gauntlet has been thrown.  And I'm trying to figure out if this is going to take a whole lot of work and/or be too difficult to get done for me.  She did say if all I want to do is finish, then she's fine doing that as well.  After she said that, I ran on the treadmill yesterday at a 9:15 pace for about a mile and then did another half mile at 8:20 pace and actually felt just fine at the end.  That's still a LONG ways away from what she's thinking.

So, from you runners.....is this possible for me over the next 2 1/2 months (traveling for July so training would likely start in August)?  Is this going to be really hard?  I don't want to ever really start doing any kind of long distances, so is this going to require having to run more than 3-4 miles at a time eventually?  Is she nuts? 

I'll hang up and listen.......

 

[Nugget]

I am in a similar boat gianmarco. I think 2.5 months should be plenty of time with your current fitness level.  I need to do more run/walks, but I get nervous about injury and pull back at the first signs of pain.  I have been walking on average 3-7 miles a day during the week. My best practice right now is to walk to the middle school which is just over a mile away and then run/walk alternating laps. I just need to do it more and then expand to two laps running, one walking. 

 

[bushdocda]

Alright, I'm going to venture into this thread.  I'm a little scared.

Being completely honest, I hate running.  I've always hated running.  I love playing sports and used to play them for hours when I was younger (tennis, basketball, whatever....).  But just running has never been fun for me and the few times I've tried it I couldn't get into it and used to get lower back pain shortly afterward.

Well, my wife is a runner (did her first half marathon a few years ago) and does it on a regular basis now.  She recently did an 82 mile trail relay that I was the driver for and have to admit it was fun to be around it and see a race for the first time.  And, because one of the runners had to drop out near the end, I actually ran the last leg (2.6 miles) just to do it.  I don't think I've ever run more than a mile but was able to get it done with a combo of running and walking in about 27 minutes.  And this was with regular tennis shoes (not running shoes) that ended up killing some toes.

Well, fast forward a few weeks and I've bought some running shoes (first pair I've ever owned) and I've used the treadmill here a few times to do some cardio work for the first time.  During that race, I was probably walking about 2 minutes in (don't laugh), but now after just a few times, I've been able to run a mile at a 10 minute pace pretty comfortably and finally don't have any back pain after running.  The shoes really make a huge difference.

So now there's a 5k coming up in October that I want to run with my wife.  I figure now, with the right shoes, and a little bit of running, this will actually be fun.  I wasn't going to do any "training" as I know if I just keep bumping it up just a little I can get this thing done.  Except yesterday she asks me about looking up some training so that we can try and do it at an 8:30 minute pace .  I'm like, "uh, I was just hoping to finish without having to walk". 

The gauntlet has been thrown.  And I'm trying to figure out if this is going to take a whole lot of work and/or be too difficult to get done for me.  She did say if all I want to do is finish, then she's fine doing that as well.  After she said that, I ran on the treadmill yesterday at a 9:15 pace for about a mile and then did another half mile at 8:20 pace and actually felt just fine at the end.  That's still a LONG ways away from what she's thinking.

So, from you runners.....is this possible for me over the next 2 1/2 months (traveling for July so training would likely start in August)?  Is this going to be really hard?  I don't want to ever really start doing any kind of long distances, so is this going to require having to run more than 3-4 miles at a time eventually?  Is she nuts? 

I'll hang up and listen.......

You can absolutely enjoy the training and the race but imposing a pace (your wife's pace who has experience) is a bad initial idea. Your instinct to increase miles without walking and then bump the number of runs each week is going to get you to a better race day where maybe that pace is doable.  Your body will respond in ways you don't know until your get some consistent runs in. 

 

[tri-man 47]

You can absolutely enjoy the training and the race but imposing a pace (your wife's pace who has experience) is a bad initial idea. Your instinct to increase miles without walking and then bump the number of runs each week is going to get you to a better race day where maybe that pace is doable.  Your body will respond in ways you don't know until your get some consistent runs in. 

Well stated!  Gianmarco, you'll "find"'your pace as you move along in the training.  It should improve steadily as you get into regular routines.  Having that goal will make a big difference.

 

[gruecd]

Ran the Dances with Dirt Devil's Lake trail half marathon this morning as a training run. Ran the first 8ish miles with my buddy and his coworker, but my legs had way more pep than theirs at that point, so I took off and ran the rest of the way myself. Finished a tad under 2 hours (9:08 pace...pretty solid for trails) with quite a bit left in the tank. Feeling pretty good about my fitness with 11 weeks to go until my race.

Flying to Poland tonight, so hopefully I can do enough running to at least offset all the pierogis and vodka I'll be consuming. Fingers crossed....

 

[gruecd]

And jshare, listen to your body, take a break, forget about trying to qualify for Boston this time, and just go out and finish the marathon.  Respect the distance, and experience the pain that's the last 10K of a marathon. Boston will be there for the next one.

 

[Osaurus]

HFS was it hot and humid this morning.  Powered through it and hit the gym tonight followed by some drinking.  Good times 

 

[gianmarco]

Well stated!  Gianmarco, you'll "find"'your pace as you move along in the training.  It should improve steadily as you get into regular routines.  Having that goal will make a big difference.

Oof, that's the thing. I wasn't planning on regular routines. I just wanted to run every once in a while and slowly build. The thought of "training" doesn't sound fun to me at all. 

That said, I'll do it to show that I can because that's how I am.  But I don't want to if it's not really a realistic attainable goal. 

After reading these responses I went back on the treadmill just to try an 8:30 pace just to see what it felt like and how much I could do. I got to half a mile and felt much more winded. While I could have gone a little more, I just stopped and gave up for today at that point. I truly hate that uncomfortable feeling after running like that when I need to stop. I love that feeling when it's during a tennis match or hustling down the court. But just to run.... Ugh.

Is there anything I can do to help that?

 

[Alex P Keaton]

Oof, that's the thing. I wasn't planning on regular routines. I just wanted to run every once in a while and slowly build. The thought of "training" doesn't sound fun to me at all. 

That said, I'll do it to show that I can because that's how I am.  But I don't want to if it's not really a realistic attainable goal. 

After reading these responses I went back on the treadmill just to try an 8:30 pace just to see what it felt like and how much I could do. I got to half a mile and felt much more winded. While I could have gone a little more, I just stopped and gave up for today at that point. I truly hate that uncomfortable feeling after running like that when I need to stop. I love that feeling when it's during a tennis match or hustling down the court. But just to run.... Ugh.

Is there anything I can do to help that?

You can do speed drills.  Sprint then jog, repeat, etc.   I used to feel that way running at an 11:00 pace, then at 10:00, then at 9:30, etc.  Now I feel comfortable doing conference calls while running at an 8:30/8:45 pace.......and don't feel like crap unless I go sub-7:30.

Btw, like you I am still more comfortable going all out while hustling to track down a lob, or sprinting down the court on a fast break.....

edit it to add:  don't listen to me, I'm an amateur compared to others in this thread.

 

[SFBayDuck]

Oof, that's the thing. I wasn't planning on regular routines. I just wanted to run every once in a while and slowly build. The thought of "training" doesn't sound fun to me at all. 

That said, I'll do it to show that I can because that's how I am.  But I don't want to if it's not really a realistic attainable goal. 

After reading these responses I went back on the treadmill just to try an 8:30 pace just to see what it felt like and how much I could do. I got to half a mile and felt much more winded. While I could have gone a little more, I just stopped and gave up for today at that point. I truly hate that uncomfortable feeling after running like that when I need to stop. I love that feeling when it's during a tennis match or hustling down the court. But just to run.... Ugh.

Is there anything I can do to help that?

If you don't want to "train" with a formal plan, you don't have to and you can still run a comfortable 5K, probably close to that 8:30 pace (based on currently running 10:00/pace easily).  My suggestion would be to run about 3 times a week, working up to 3-4 miles each time, and keep it mostly at a comfortable, conversational pace.  If you want to maximize things and get faster even quicker, toward the end of some of those runs mix in some strides - 5-to-30-second bursts of speed up to the fastest pace you can go while staying totally smooth and comfortable (it’s not a sprint).  Start with 3-4 of those, and work up to 6-8 over a month or so.  An easy way to structure it is 1:40 of normal easy running between 20-second strides.  You do that on 1-2 of those weekly runs, you'll find yourself getting faster at the same "easy" effort level.

 

[mr. furley]

I'm dealing with a painful bruise on my left butt cheek that is making my Peloton rides very uncomfortable. 

On July 4th morning after a long day/night of drinking on the beach on a very hot day I set out on an iced coffee run. I was feeling fine, might have still had a little buzz on. But when I got to Dunkin and was walking from my car into the store I started feeling a little bit off, kind of shaky and light headed, so when I got inside I went and sat down instead of getting in line. I sat there for 5 minutes or so and watched the line grow. Place was jammed. I wasn't feeling any better but felt like I needed to get in line or I'd never get out of there. I remember standing with my hand on a display case for support and thinking to myself "what the #### am I going to do when the line moves forward and I'll have nothing to hold on to?"

Next thing I know I open my eyes, I'm on the ground, and there are three women kneeling around me, and a circle of others standing surrounding me, welcoming me back to consciousness, asking if I know where I am, etc. They helped me to my feet and brought me to a couch. They wanted to call an ambulance but I was already feeling better and asked them not to. Offers to call my wife, drive me home, follow me home...they were all so nice and caring, but I said I'd be fine if I just sat for a bit, it had been a late night and I must be dehydrated. The store manager brought me a water and a donut, and the 8 iced coffees I'd come for in the first place (no charge!) and I just sat there and got my #### together for 20 minutes then drove back to the beach house. 

When I got back the house was the same way I left it, jammed with extended family and neighbors waiting for their coffees, and I didn't have the energy or interest in telling anyone what happened. Given my heart history I wasn't looking to worry anyone. When asked what took so long I just said I forgot Geno's coffee and had to go back. 

I've got a bruised elbow and a small lump on the back of my head, but thankfully my left ### took the brunt of it. It ####### kills. And oddly enough, besides the kind folks at the DD on 139 in Marshfield, you guys are the only ones who know. 

seems perfectly normal.  carry on

 

[gianmarco]

If you don't want to "train" with a formal plan, you don't have to and you can still run a comfortable 5K, probably close to that 8:30 pace (based on currently running 10:00/pace easily).  My suggestion would be to run about 3 times a week, working up to 3-4 miles each time, and keep it mostly at a comfortable, conversational pace.  If you want to maximize things and get faster even quicker, toward the end of some of those runs mix in some strides - 5-to-30-second bursts of speed up to the fastest pace you can go while staying totally smooth and comfortable (it’s not a sprint).  Start with 3-4 of those, and work up to 6-8 over a month or so.  An easy way to structure it is 1:40 of normal easy running between 20-second strides.  You do that on 1-2 of those weekly runs, you'll find yourself getting faster at the same "easy" effort level.

Alright, this I can do.

#### it, I'm in. 

 

[MAC_32]

If you don't want to "train" with a formal plan, you don't have to and you can still run a comfortable 5K, probably close to that 8:30 pace (based on currently running 10:00/pace easily).  My suggestion would be to run about 3 times a week, working up to 3-4 miles each time, and keep it mostly at a comfortable, conversational pace.  If you want to maximize things and get faster even quicker, toward the end of some of those runs mix in some strides - 5-to-30-second bursts of speed up to the fastest pace you can go while staying totally smooth and comfortable (it’s not a sprint).  Start with 3-4 of those, and work up to 6-8 over a month or so.  An easy way to structure it is 1:40 of normal easy running between 20-second strides.  You do that on 1-2 of those weekly runs, you'll find yourself getting faster at the same "easy" effort level.

And if you hate the dreadmill then take it to the streets and use fire hydrants - or something else arbitrary your neighborhood has a lot of. When you get to one, stride to the next one. Since they aren't the same length apart you won't get comfortable with the time striding. Sometimes it'll be 15 seconds, other times 40 (or more?). 

 

[-OZ-]

Really struggling still. I wake up around 3:45 am, as I do on most Saturday mornings to beat the heat for my long run. I had a grueling 20 miles ahead of me in 150+ SI with only about 5 hours of sleep. I said to myself, "just do what you can and be done with it." Well, after pouring a pack of salt/electrolytes into my mouth, 3 gels, and 2 bottles of water, I was only halfway there, 10 miles in.

I've touched on my struggles and frustrations the past few weeks but it's been a little more than I've talked about. Truth is, I've been throwing up on and off for about the past week and a half. I've thrown up multiple times on 4 different days in that span. I'm not sure what is going on with me, but I've tried to keep training throughout. The reason I keep training is because my mind keeps telling me that I have came too far to quit now. On top of the stomach issues, I have absolutely zero energy, like none.  My wife knows I haven't been feeling well lately, but has no clue to the extent of it (I just keep saying I'm tired). My attempts at running this week have all failed miserably and left me wondering what the hell I am doing and why I am doing it.

That brings me to around 5:45 this morning. I am 10 miles into my run, completely soaked as if I had jumped in a pool with my socks, shoes, and shorts on. But I am no longer running, I am sitting on a park bench at 5:45 am in absolute pitch black. On top of being soaked, I have white residue all over my body (have no clue what the hell it is). And all I could do was ask myself, "what are you doing?" I am pretty sure I hit a new low in that park. I didn't move from that bench for about 10 minutes. I just kept thinking and looking around into the blackness........

Like the others said, it's time to take a break. 

Increasing mileage in the south in the summer is a dangerous proposition. I know my runs have been tougher lately so it's time to dial back a tad.  

Rest is the first priority. Next would be to check your nutrition plan.  Others can correct me if I'm off base but I think taking 3 gels plus electrolytes in 10 miles is going to hurt a lot more than it helps. That probably made you more sick than if you had just taken water with a small amount of salt in it.