Happy Thanksgiving everyone. So far, I'm recovering pretty well from the marathon. I was quite sore on Monday and definitely the day off. I couldn't walk down stairs until yesterday. The only thing that is sore right now is my left foot.
I started work on Tuesday. Luckily, I was only there for three hours because business was slow. That allowed my aching body to rest. I worked six hours yesterday and I'm not getting more used to being on my feet all day. I have off today and work again tomorrow.
Thus far, work has been good. I'm just starting to learn the ropes. I've mostly been working at the fitting room and have done a lot of folding. I'm getting a feel for where the products are. I still have a lot to learn. It's a great staff and I look forward to my time there.
Since I couldn't run today, I decided to volunteer for a 5K in Nazareth. I wound up working right at the finish line. My job was the make sure that when people finished, they stayed in order. It became a real mess though as the finish chute backed onto the course. I had to actually stop people short of the finish line, so their times weren't accurate. Sometimes I was successful, other times I wasn't. It really bothered me that people were screwed like that. It was great to volunteer though and talk to some people. I need to do that more often.
After the race, I couldn't resist the urge to run. I decided that rather than run a couple miles, I'd just do a few hill sprints. Those are meant to strengthen your legs and hips and prevent injury. I'm going to do them twice a week after easy runs. They are only supposed to be 8 seconds long, but I ended up running them for 20 seconds. Next week, I'll do two of them. Since my first one was so slow today, I ran three of them.
I'll be off from running until Tuesday. I'm dieing by not running. I need to get back on the pavement. I started putting together my spring training schedule already. I want to build up mileage for a couple weeks first. Then, I'll go into the full program. I think I'm going to run the Minneapolis Marathon in June. That'll give me time to get to where I want to go. I'm so hungry right now and can't wait to get started.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Philadelphia Marathon
Well, today was it. After months of training, I completed my first marathon, the Philadelphia Marathon. It was great to finished, but I have mixed feelings on the way things turned out.
I got up bright and early and made short trek in the dark to the start line. I went to the bathroom twice while waiting around and I actually had to go again at the start. I drank too much before the race.
The corral start was nice, although a little confusing. When I walked to the starting line, they were supposed to be starting the green wave (one in front of me). I wasn't going to stand around at the line and wait, so I just started. The first mile was frustrating. I ran it in 9 minutes because there was no room to go around anyone.
It thinned out a little in the second mile and I was able to fly by people in spots. Shortly after mile 3, I had to use the bathroom. That cost me about a minute. It was already hot that early on and I took of my gloves. I was wearing short sleeves and shorts. Some people were in long sleeves and more. The temperature was actually perfect.
South Street was nice, there were a lot of people. Chestnut Street was much of the same, especially near the river. After the slow start, I hit a pretty consistent 8 minute per mile pace. My plan was to run comfortably through at least the first half, if not more. I did just that and cranked out 8 minute mile after 8 minute mile.
I ran by Drexel, but didn't notice anyone. Our names were on our bibs. That kind of sucked because I didn't know when friends were yelling if they did yell. I only noticed my parents throughout the run.
Thirty-fourth Street is a long gradual uphill. It was the start of the most hilly part. I knew that was uphill, but I didn't anticipate how hilly the portion of Fairmount Park past the zoo was. That section killed my legs. My hamstring soreness came back and my IT band starting bothering me.
We got onto West River Drive and I got back into rhythm. It was nice being on familiar ground. I couldn't believe there were a lot of people on Kelly Drive already at that point. I felt fairly strong as we got to the Art Museum and halfway point.
I took it easy over Lemon Hill. The sore legs continued on Kelly Drive. I was happy that they leader hadn't come by on the way back yet. He passed by and had a big lead. It must be nice to be an elite runner and finish that early.
When we got to Ridge Avenue, there was a ramp. I decided to walk uphill to be smart. It was after mile 18 and the first time I walked. After that came Manayunk. That was great because there were huge crowds. It was loud and tough to hold back.
I was slipping a little, but didn't feel too bad until shortly after the 20 mile mark. That was my longest training run and it showed. My legs started to get very sore. I had to take a 3 minute walk break to try to recover. I walked again before Falls Bridge.
From about mile 15 on, I was saying to myself, "race starts at Falls Bridge." I did okay for a little while. At mile 22, I got a second wind and made a nice surge. I began passing people left and right. I was being cheered for and thought this was the part where I'd pick it up.
It wasn't meant to be though. My legs were just too sore and also began cramping up. They never actually fully cramped. I always stopped and walked before that. The final two miles were brutal. I had to walk a lot of it.
I within the final mile, but still couldn't run much. Once I was at the final hill, I decided to walk up it so that I could finish. People were yelling at me to start running because they thought I just quit. I didn't have a choice. Walking was the only way I'd finish.
After the hill, I decided to run again for the final quarter mile or so. I even tried to use my usual strong kick. Whenever I picked up my stride, I nearly cramped. I was even limping as I crossed the finish line.
It was good to finish and I was happy that I correctly followed my easy early strategy. My longest run was 20 miles and my second longest was only 16.5 miles. I just didn't have enough really long runs. I wasn't trained well enough for the whole distance. I thought that I could just battle through the final 6+ miles.
The cramps were the most frustrating thing. I drank quite a bit before the race and almost all the water stations. I took Gatorade nearly every time. I was still dehydrated at the end though. I only drank about half of each cup. I guess next time, I'll drink the whole thing and take more time. Perhaps I'll grab a second cup.
I ate four GU Energy Gels throughout the race. I felt like I had a lot of energy. I didn't ever work very hard in the race. I never truely got to race. I just ran. My legs didn't have it.
I did some things right and some wrong. That's part of learning in your first marathon. Once my legs were losing it, I already began thinking about my next marathon and how great it'll be when I'm better trained.
Some people never imagined that they'd be able to run 26.2 miles, so it is impressed when they finish. I always knew that if I was in decent shape, I could do it. Now, I'm going to focus on qualifying for Boston. I figured that I'd do that in spring, but it might take until next fall to do so.
I'll rest up for the next week or so. After that, it's time to get into the spring training program. I start my new job on Tuesday, so it's not much of a rest. I'll be on my feet all day too, so that'll be interesting. One of the employees qualified for Boston. I'll have to get some advice from her and maybe run with her as well.
3:48:12 (8:42 pace)
51:39 (10K)
1:48:52 (half)
2:34:29 (30K)
Overall place: 2407/7464
Gender: 1825/4357
Age: 351/749
I got up bright and early and made short trek in the dark to the start line. I went to the bathroom twice while waiting around and I actually had to go again at the start. I drank too much before the race.
The corral start was nice, although a little confusing. When I walked to the starting line, they were supposed to be starting the green wave (one in front of me). I wasn't going to stand around at the line and wait, so I just started. The first mile was frustrating. I ran it in 9 minutes because there was no room to go around anyone.
It thinned out a little in the second mile and I was able to fly by people in spots. Shortly after mile 3, I had to use the bathroom. That cost me about a minute. It was already hot that early on and I took of my gloves. I was wearing short sleeves and shorts. Some people were in long sleeves and more. The temperature was actually perfect.
South Street was nice, there were a lot of people. Chestnut Street was much of the same, especially near the river. After the slow start, I hit a pretty consistent 8 minute per mile pace. My plan was to run comfortably through at least the first half, if not more. I did just that and cranked out 8 minute mile after 8 minute mile.
I ran by Drexel, but didn't notice anyone. Our names were on our bibs. That kind of sucked because I didn't know when friends were yelling if they did yell. I only noticed my parents throughout the run.
Thirty-fourth Street is a long gradual uphill. It was the start of the most hilly part. I knew that was uphill, but I didn't anticipate how hilly the portion of Fairmount Park past the zoo was. That section killed my legs. My hamstring soreness came back and my IT band starting bothering me.
We got onto West River Drive and I got back into rhythm. It was nice being on familiar ground. I couldn't believe there were a lot of people on Kelly Drive already at that point. I felt fairly strong as we got to the Art Museum and halfway point.
I took it easy over Lemon Hill. The sore legs continued on Kelly Drive. I was happy that they leader hadn't come by on the way back yet. He passed by and had a big lead. It must be nice to be an elite runner and finish that early.
When we got to Ridge Avenue, there was a ramp. I decided to walk uphill to be smart. It was after mile 18 and the first time I walked. After that came Manayunk. That was great because there were huge crowds. It was loud and tough to hold back.
I was slipping a little, but didn't feel too bad until shortly after the 20 mile mark. That was my longest training run and it showed. My legs started to get very sore. I had to take a 3 minute walk break to try to recover. I walked again before Falls Bridge.
From about mile 15 on, I was saying to myself, "race starts at Falls Bridge." I did okay for a little while. At mile 22, I got a second wind and made a nice surge. I began passing people left and right. I was being cheered for and thought this was the part where I'd pick it up.
It wasn't meant to be though. My legs were just too sore and also began cramping up. They never actually fully cramped. I always stopped and walked before that. The final two miles were brutal. I had to walk a lot of it.
I within the final mile, but still couldn't run much. Once I was at the final hill, I decided to walk up it so that I could finish. People were yelling at me to start running because they thought I just quit. I didn't have a choice. Walking was the only way I'd finish.
After the hill, I decided to run again for the final quarter mile or so. I even tried to use my usual strong kick. Whenever I picked up my stride, I nearly cramped. I was even limping as I crossed the finish line.
It was good to finish and I was happy that I correctly followed my easy early strategy. My longest run was 20 miles and my second longest was only 16.5 miles. I just didn't have enough really long runs. I wasn't trained well enough for the whole distance. I thought that I could just battle through the final 6+ miles.
The cramps were the most frustrating thing. I drank quite a bit before the race and almost all the water stations. I took Gatorade nearly every time. I was still dehydrated at the end though. I only drank about half of each cup. I guess next time, I'll drink the whole thing and take more time. Perhaps I'll grab a second cup.
I ate four GU Energy Gels throughout the race. I felt like I had a lot of energy. I didn't ever work very hard in the race. I never truely got to race. I just ran. My legs didn't have it.
I did some things right and some wrong. That's part of learning in your first marathon. Once my legs were losing it, I already began thinking about my next marathon and how great it'll be when I'm better trained.
Some people never imagined that they'd be able to run 26.2 miles, so it is impressed when they finish. I always knew that if I was in decent shape, I could do it. Now, I'm going to focus on qualifying for Boston. I figured that I'd do that in spring, but it might take until next fall to do so.
I'll rest up for the next week or so. After that, it's time to get into the spring training program. I start my new job on Tuesday, so it's not much of a rest. I'll be on my feet all day too, so that'll be interesting. One of the employees qualified for Boston. I'll have to get some advice from her and maybe run with her as well.
3:48:12 (8:42 pace)
51:39 (10K)
1:48:52 (half)
2:34:29 (30K)
Overall place: 2407/7464
Gender: 1825/4357
Age: 351/749
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Last Training Run
This morning was my final training run before the marathon. I ran an easy two miles in the neighborhood across from my parents house. It was cloudy and a bit cold.
I was at a comfortable and relaxed pace throughout the run. I didn't take the time to stretch before or after and I probably should have.
I wore a long sleeve shirt and the medium weight gloves. It was too hot for those. I'm definitely going with short sleeves. I'm still unsure whether to go lightweight or medium weight gloves though. I really dislike the lightweight ones, but the medium weight ones are kind of hot.
Shortly after my run, I drove back home. I went through Main Street Manayunk on the way back, so that I could drive along the course. I've ran there a few times, so I already have a good feel for the course. They already had the mile markers painted on the road.
They were still setting up along the parkway. I actually think I saw the race director. I thought that the start and finish areas would be setup, but that wasn't the case. Hopefully they'll have them up tomorrow. I want to grab a couple pictures. I'd like to drive some of the course that I've never ran on. Hopefully I find time tomorrow.
I'm sure keeping busy right now. Today, I filled out my working papers at City Sports. Tomorrow, I go in for a couple hours to go over checklists of either apparel, shoes or equipment. I start work on Tuesday. I'm working the afternoons and evenings on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. There's going to be a lot of new stuff to learn. I'm eager though.
2 miles - 16:56 (8:28 pace)
I was at a comfortable and relaxed pace throughout the run. I didn't take the time to stretch before or after and I probably should have.
I wore a long sleeve shirt and the medium weight gloves. It was too hot for those. I'm definitely going with short sleeves. I'm still unsure whether to go lightweight or medium weight gloves though. I really dislike the lightweight ones, but the medium weight ones are kind of hot.
Shortly after my run, I drove back home. I went through Main Street Manayunk on the way back, so that I could drive along the course. I've ran there a few times, so I already have a good feel for the course. They already had the mile markers painted on the road.
They were still setting up along the parkway. I actually think I saw the race director. I thought that the start and finish areas would be setup, but that wasn't the case. Hopefully they'll have them up tomorrow. I want to grab a couple pictures. I'd like to drive some of the course that I've never ran on. Hopefully I find time tomorrow.
I'm sure keeping busy right now. Today, I filled out my working papers at City Sports. Tomorrow, I go in for a couple hours to go over checklists of either apparel, shoes or equipment. I start work on Tuesday. I'm working the afternoons and evenings on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. There's going to be a lot of new stuff to learn. I'm eager though.
2 miles - 16:56 (8:28 pace)
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
We're All on a Flyer
Today was my last fast run before the marathon. I ran a very hard 4 miles on Kelly Drive. I noticed that I wasn't alone. As I started out, I passed no fewer than 3 women who were coming in very fast along boathouse row.
I started quite hard as I began at Lloyd Hall. I ran early in the morning this time, just after 7 AM. It was fairly cool at that time, in the mid 40s. I decided to go out wearing my new Under Armour ColdGear and Nike Running Tights. I knew it wasn't quite cold enough for them, but figured it wouldn't be a problem on the short distance.
I was very pleased as I hit the first mile at about 7:10. I felt like I had slowed a little through the second mile, but still came through there at about 14:20. I was very pleased with that first half.
The second half was even more impressive. I struggled at first because the clothes were causing me to overheat. I slowed down for a little, but then talked myself back into a faster pace.
The final was the best of them all as I ran in well under a 7 minute pace. I wanted to slow, but wouldn't allow myself to. I talked myself into continuing to push harder and harder. It hurt, but obviously it worked.
It was a very rewarding workout and I'm ready for the marathon. Only one more training run is left now. The extra day off before the marathon will be nice.
Tomorrow, I'm going in to fill out paperwork at City Sports. Friday is the marathon expo. I'm really looking forward to it.
4 miles - 27:58 (7:00 pace)
I started quite hard as I began at Lloyd Hall. I ran early in the morning this time, just after 7 AM. It was fairly cool at that time, in the mid 40s. I decided to go out wearing my new Under Armour ColdGear and Nike Running Tights. I knew it wasn't quite cold enough for them, but figured it wouldn't be a problem on the short distance.
I was very pleased as I hit the first mile at about 7:10. I felt like I had slowed a little through the second mile, but still came through there at about 14:20. I was very pleased with that first half.
The second half was even more impressive. I struggled at first because the clothes were causing me to overheat. I slowed down for a little, but then talked myself back into a faster pace.
The final was the best of them all as I ran in well under a 7 minute pace. I wanted to slow, but wouldn't allow myself to. I talked myself into continuing to push harder and harder. It hurt, but obviously it worked.
It was a very rewarding workout and I'm ready for the marathon. Only one more training run is left now. The extra day off before the marathon will be nice.
Tomorrow, I'm going in to fill out paperwork at City Sports. Friday is the marathon expo. I'm really looking forward to it.
4 miles - 27:58 (7:00 pace)
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Fresh Legs
For a change I had fresh legs on a Tuesday. They weren't dead. I ran the three mile Schuykill River loop. It was nice weather and I felt very good.
I started off at a decent pace. I increased the pace a little more early on in the run. It was ideal running weather and I felt pretty good. Someone who was running really hard passed me. I elected not to battle with him. I wish people that passed me there would actually turn around and finish the loop, but they never do. Knowing that there are people running faster than me, will continue to motivate me.
That said, I passed a ton of people too. After hitting the halfway point in 11:22, I really picked it up in the 2nd half of the run. I still wasn't going all out. It was hard, but still a bit comfortable. I'd love to be able to end the marathon at that pace.
It's actually become a little difficult to get out the door during this taper period. I don't have much of a problem getting out for long runs, but short ones just seem so useless. I do understand that they are important. It's just difficult.
The biggest news of today is that I got hired at City Sports. I'm really excited to start the new job and especially one that is related to running. It should help me make new contacts and learn more about the gear.
I'm definitely ready to get the marathon going. I plan on going out at a very comfortable and relaxing first half. If I'm close to Boston qualifying pace, I'm going to pick it up a little then. If I'm not, then I'll take it easy until about mile 18. It looks like the weather will be pretty nice and I'll be able to wear shorts and a short sleeve shirt. I'm eager to get going.
Tomorrow will be a four mile run. I plan to run it extremely hard before taking it easy on Thursday's two miler. It is hard to believe that there are only two training runs left. Time has flown by pretty quickly, even though it was a lot of training runs ago.
3 miles - 22:33 (7:31 pace)
I started off at a decent pace. I increased the pace a little more early on in the run. It was ideal running weather and I felt pretty good. Someone who was running really hard passed me. I elected not to battle with him. I wish people that passed me there would actually turn around and finish the loop, but they never do. Knowing that there are people running faster than me, will continue to motivate me.
That said, I passed a ton of people too. After hitting the halfway point in 11:22, I really picked it up in the 2nd half of the run. I still wasn't going all out. It was hard, but still a bit comfortable. I'd love to be able to end the marathon at that pace.
It's actually become a little difficult to get out the door during this taper period. I don't have much of a problem getting out for long runs, but short ones just seem so useless. I do understand that they are important. It's just difficult.
The biggest news of today is that I got hired at City Sports. I'm really excited to start the new job and especially one that is related to running. It should help me make new contacts and learn more about the gear.
I'm definitely ready to get the marathon going. I plan on going out at a very comfortable and relaxing first half. If I'm close to Boston qualifying pace, I'm going to pick it up a little then. If I'm not, then I'll take it easy until about mile 18. It looks like the weather will be pretty nice and I'll be able to wear shorts and a short sleeve shirt. I'm eager to get going.
Tomorrow will be a four mile run. I plan to run it extremely hard before taking it easy on Thursday's two miler. It is hard to believe that there are only two training runs left. Time has flown by pretty quickly, even though it was a lot of training runs ago.
3 miles - 22:33 (7:31 pace)
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Last Cross Training
Today was the last day of cross training. It was rather interesting. The weather was beautiful, near 70 degrees, but I didn't feel like biking. Instead, I decided to walk the half hour each way to the Drexel women's basketball game. I actually ended up running hope from Cav's.
I ran with a camera bag, long pants and a hat. I ran so that I could get back for the Eagles game. It took about 20 minutes. It was very hot.
Tomorrow, I'm going to do some clothes shopping with my mom tomorrow. I want to get some Under Armour Cold Gear. It's supposed to be pretty good.
It's now less than a week to the marathon. I'm ready to get going. I'm not overly excited yet. I really need to stick to my marathon plan. I want to run the first half at a very comfortable pace and see where I'm at. If I'm close to Boston pace, I might push it then. Either way, I don't want to push too hard before mile 18.
I ran with a camera bag, long pants and a hat. I ran so that I could get back for the Eagles game. It took about 20 minutes. It was very hot.
Tomorrow, I'm going to do some clothes shopping with my mom tomorrow. I want to get some Under Armour Cold Gear. It's supposed to be pretty good.
It's now less than a week to the marathon. I'm ready to get going. I'm not overly excited yet. I really need to stick to my marathon plan. I want to run the first half at a very comfortable pace and see where I'm at. If I'm close to Boston pace, I might push it then. Either way, I don't want to push too hard before mile 18.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Final Saturday Run
Today was my final Saturday run. I was in Connecticut so I had to make due with where I was. I managed to create a nice loop route that was 4.3 miles. I ran it twice for a little more than the planned 8 miles.
I didn't get to warm up, so I ran very slow to start. I coasted through most of the first loop. The layout was great. It was about 3 segments of 1.5 to 2.5 miles. There were rolling hills, which made it a little tough.
The nice thing is that there was a good shoulder to run on throughout most of the route. It was paved like the rest of the road and relatively flat. Early on, my IT band started bothering me along with my hip. It cleared up after a bit though.
The first loop was nice and I commented how great it was running without it raining. Of course during the second loop, it started to rain. I had to avoid puddles as well as cars then.
I had to stop at the end of the first loop and use my hotel bathroom. I actually had to stop running for a couple tenths of a mile before going. I pushed a little during the second loop, but it still wasn't too hard.
It feels great to have all easy runs left. I can't wait until next week. I didn't stretch as much as I would've liked after the run and it caused me to be sore during my 5 hour drive home from a football game.
I had an interview at City Sports yesterday. It went great. I had a lot of energy, asked questions and was quite talkative. I really think I'd like the job. They have a running club and I could run with them too.
8.6 miles - 1:11:04 (8:16 pace)
I didn't get to warm up, so I ran very slow to start. I coasted through most of the first loop. The layout was great. It was about 3 segments of 1.5 to 2.5 miles. There were rolling hills, which made it a little tough.
The nice thing is that there was a good shoulder to run on throughout most of the route. It was paved like the rest of the road and relatively flat. Early on, my IT band started bothering me along with my hip. It cleared up after a bit though.
The first loop was nice and I commented how great it was running without it raining. Of course during the second loop, it started to rain. I had to avoid puddles as well as cars then.
I had to stop at the end of the first loop and use my hotel bathroom. I actually had to stop running for a couple tenths of a mile before going. I pushed a little during the second loop, but it still wasn't too hard.
It feels great to have all easy runs left. I can't wait until next week. I didn't stretch as much as I would've liked after the run and it caused me to be sore during my 5 hour drive home from a football game.
I had an interview at City Sports yesterday. It went great. I had a lot of energy, asked questions and was quite talkative. I really think I'd like the job. They have a running club and I could run with them too.
8.6 miles - 1:11:04 (8:16 pace)
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Cruising Along
After pushing hard yesterday, I ran a very easy three miles today. I went out and back along West River Drive. It was probably the easiest run that I've done during this training segment.
I got up pretty early today for the first time awhile. I didn't head out the door until about 8:30 AM, but I was up at 7 AM. I need to get back into a rhythm of waking early.
Once again, the weather sucked outside. It was windy with cold rain. That's always tough running over the bridge over the river. I cruised along though and just tried to relax. I didn't think of much of anything and wasn't as focused as usual. It's the type of run that is nice to have every once in awhile.
Even during the second half of the run, I continued to take it slow. I'll tune up a little faster on Saturday and next week. Right now, I'm enjoying the taper. I'm really looking forward to marathon day. I can't believe how quickly it is approaching. I only have 4 days of running and 1 day of cross training before the marathon itself.
I got a phone call today for a job interview at City Sports. I'm headed there tomorrow morning. I'm actually more excited for this interview than I ever was for engineering jobs and this one won't even pay much. I'm just so excited to find other ways to get more involved in running. It would be nice to get some discounted winter gear too.
Saturday, I'm heading to Massachusetts for a Lafayette football game. I have to come up with an 8 mile more run in the hotel area. That'll be the final long run of the program.
3 miles - 27:08 (9:03 pace)
I got up pretty early today for the first time awhile. I didn't head out the door until about 8:30 AM, but I was up at 7 AM. I need to get back into a rhythm of waking early.
Once again, the weather sucked outside. It was windy with cold rain. That's always tough running over the bridge over the river. I cruised along though and just tried to relax. I didn't think of much of anything and wasn't as focused as usual. It's the type of run that is nice to have every once in awhile.
Even during the second half of the run, I continued to take it slow. I'll tune up a little faster on Saturday and next week. Right now, I'm enjoying the taper. I'm really looking forward to marathon day. I can't believe how quickly it is approaching. I only have 4 days of running and 1 day of cross training before the marathon itself.
I got a phone call today for a job interview at City Sports. I'm headed there tomorrow morning. I'm actually more excited for this interview than I ever was for engineering jobs and this one won't even pay much. I'm just so excited to find other ways to get more involved in running. It would be nice to get some discounted winter gear too.
Saturday, I'm heading to Massachusetts for a Lafayette football game. I have to come up with an 8 mile more run in the hotel area. That'll be the final long run of the program.
3 miles - 27:08 (9:03 pace)
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Tuning Up
Yesterday's disappointing run was apparently short lived. Today, I ran possibly my best run yet. I did a 6 mile out and back along Kelly Drive and really pushed myself.
I did some really slow jogging for a few minutes, before taking off on the timed 6 mile run. I felt strong and fast early on. I tried to cruise along and settle into a slightly difficult pace. I was thrilled when I hit the mile marker at 7:22. I thought that was about as fast as I could run.
I continued to stay smooth and fast. My breathing was a little hard, but I felt I had more left. I was amazed again when I hit the 2 mile mark under 15 miles. I knew the pace would wear me out, so I back off a bit in the 3rd and 4th miles. I ran them pretty well too though.
I hit a head wind between 1.5 miles and 2.5 miles. That was kind of tough and slowed me down. I kept solid form though and battled on. The weather was tricky because it felt really cold. I was debating whether or not to wear a long sleeve shirt or not. Once I saw a girl in short sleeves and shorts, I decided that was the way to go. It worked perfectly for this fast run with a temperature in the low 50s.
I wore some new gloves too. They are medium weight gloves and I really like them. I thought I might get too sweaty in those temperatures, but that didn't happen until the end. I might wear them during the marathon. We shall see.
Once I hit the final 2.5 miles, I took it up a notch. I kept focusing on the short term. I ran so hard that I started developing some slight side stitches. My breathing was hard too. I kept pushing and mentally talked to myself to keep going.
My legs didn't respond quite as well as I had hoped at the end. They didn't die, but there was no extra juice either. I probably should've went out just slightly slower. That could've made me a lot faster in the end. That said, I did run a faster second half, so it's still positive. I blew by a bunch of people. I struggled through the last half mile, but didn't slow much.
It felt so good to run this fast. The plan coming into the run was to go very hard. I definitely did that. There sure wasn't much left in the tank after that one. I hope I can push that hard through the final 6 miles of the marathon. That would be huge.
One thing I do need to do is get up earlier to adjust to the marathon starting time of 7 AM. I just have trouble getting out of bed early in the morning during this cold time of year. I ran late in the afternoon today. I'll try to get up at 7 AM tomorrow to run my easy 3 miler. We'll see how that works out.
I'm very happy about today though. I figured that this would be about my race pace for a 10k, not just a training run. I could probably go under 7 minutes easily for a 10k race right now. I'm definitely making progress. I really can't wait to add speedwork too.
6 miles - 43:29 (7:15 pace)
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Terrible Tuesdays
It seems like I begin every week with a terrible run. This Tuesday outing was my worst to date though. Other than runs where I was bothered by injury, it was my worst run of the entire training period. It was only a 4 miler and I felt like I could barely complete it.
I did my Saturday run through a hilly 12 miles near my parents house. Perhaps that was the problem. Oddly though, I wasn't sore at all. Usually that's my problem on a Tuesday. My legs just felt dead today, they had no snap to them. I really thought that during the taper period, they'd become rejuvenated. So far, that hasn't happened.
I ran the Schuykill Banks route and added in another mile along Kelly Drive. The small hills really seemed to slow me on the banks. I actually ran fairly hard and crisp for about 10 minutes in the middle of the run, but then my legs were gone again.
I passed a few people, but only because they were very slow. A little while before the turnaround, I saw two big girls that I figured I could catch later on. I worked hard to get to them. As I was cruising towards them, they started to walk. That took all the fun out of it.
My IT band started bothering me on the uphill portion of the walk home. That's odd because that hasn't been a problem for months. I'm guessing the hills on Saturday's run attributed to that. Hopefully it doesn't continue.
I'm still amazed at how people dress. It was warm and nearly 60 today. Yet I saw plenty of people with jackets, long pants and long sleeve shirts on. I've been very happy with my choice of running attire thus far. Hopefully there isn't a significant temperature drop on race day.
I did ride my bike on Sunday morning. It was very warm and uneventful. It really does suck trying to ride on the path with all the walkers and runners (now that the road is open again on weekends).
They put the banners up for the Philadelphia Marathon. That was kind of cool to see and a reminder of how close we are. I'm going to snap some pictures of them tomorrow. Speaking of tomorrow, I'm going to really push hard and see how fast I can go on tomorrow's 6 mile route. Hopefully my legs will respond better than today.
4 miles - 31:58 (8:00 pace)
I did my Saturday run through a hilly 12 miles near my parents house. Perhaps that was the problem. Oddly though, I wasn't sore at all. Usually that's my problem on a Tuesday. My legs just felt dead today, they had no snap to them. I really thought that during the taper period, they'd become rejuvenated. So far, that hasn't happened.
I ran the Schuykill Banks route and added in another mile along Kelly Drive. The small hills really seemed to slow me on the banks. I actually ran fairly hard and crisp for about 10 minutes in the middle of the run, but then my legs were gone again.
I passed a few people, but only because they were very slow. A little while before the turnaround, I saw two big girls that I figured I could catch later on. I worked hard to get to them. As I was cruising towards them, they started to walk. That took all the fun out of it.
My IT band started bothering me on the uphill portion of the walk home. That's odd because that hasn't been a problem for months. I'm guessing the hills on Saturday's run attributed to that. Hopefully it doesn't continue.
I'm still amazed at how people dress. It was warm and nearly 60 today. Yet I saw plenty of people with jackets, long pants and long sleeve shirts on. I've been very happy with my choice of running attire thus far. Hopefully there isn't a significant temperature drop on race day.
I did ride my bike on Sunday morning. It was very warm and uneventful. It really does suck trying to ride on the path with all the walkers and runners (now that the road is open again on weekends).
They put the banners up for the Philadelphia Marathon. That was kind of cool to see and a reminder of how close we are. I'm going to snap some pictures of them tomorrow. Speaking of tomorrow, I'm going to really push hard and see how fast I can go on tomorrow's 6 mile route. Hopefully my legs will respond better than today.
4 miles - 31:58 (8:00 pace)
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Done With Double Digits
Today was my final double digit mileage run until the marathon. The next longest one will be 8 miles, next weekend. I actually ran at 7:30 at night in 45 degree weather.
I'm back at my parent house and planned on running to my high school and back in the morning. It was freezing cold then (28 degrees), so I decided it would be better to run at night. I ran all throughout the neighborhoods in the township.
It was really nice running in the calm and quiet. It was a little chilly, but not too bad. I ran with a long sleeve shirt and shorts, but it was tough weather to gauge. It was sort of in between short and long sleeve shirt weather. I'm actually glad I ran in a long sleeve shirt though.
Because I was running at night, I had to stay alert. It wasn't too bad though. I probably only saw 10-15 cars in the entire time that I was running. The hardest part was actually avoiding all the roadside leaf piles. I managed to navigate around them successfully.
I ran nice and relaxed the whole time. I just enjoyed myself. I ran at a decent pace, but didn't push too much. I didn't even check my watch until 55 minutes into the run (when I ate a gel). I just focused on the next part of my route.
There were a lot of hills and I was actually surprised that they didn't bother me more. My foot felt sore early and my legs followed at the end of the run. Overall, the legs weren't too bad though. The run wasn't as hard as I thought it was.
Tomorrow will be an hour bike ride back in Philadelphia. It'll be another easy and relaxing week coming up. I will push hard again on Wednesday. The marathon is only two weeks away. It's really hard to believe.
12 miles - 1:43:05 (8:35 pace)
I'm back at my parent house and planned on running to my high school and back in the morning. It was freezing cold then (28 degrees), so I decided it would be better to run at night. I ran all throughout the neighborhoods in the township.
It was really nice running in the calm and quiet. It was a little chilly, but not too bad. I ran with a long sleeve shirt and shorts, but it was tough weather to gauge. It was sort of in between short and long sleeve shirt weather. I'm actually glad I ran in a long sleeve shirt though.
Because I was running at night, I had to stay alert. It wasn't too bad though. I probably only saw 10-15 cars in the entire time that I was running. The hardest part was actually avoiding all the roadside leaf piles. I managed to navigate around them successfully.
I ran nice and relaxed the whole time. I just enjoyed myself. I ran at a decent pace, but didn't push too much. I didn't even check my watch until 55 minutes into the run (when I ate a gel). I just focused on the next part of my route.
There were a lot of hills and I was actually surprised that they didn't bother me more. My foot felt sore early and my legs followed at the end of the run. Overall, the legs weren't too bad though. The run wasn't as hard as I thought it was.
Tomorrow will be an hour bike ride back in Philadelphia. It'll be another easy and relaxing week coming up. I will push hard again on Wednesday. The marathon is only two weeks away. It's really hard to believe.
12 miles - 1:43:05 (8:35 pace)
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Horrible Weather
I came back to my parents house for the weekend. Since I decided on a cheesesteak for lunch, I didn't run until after 4 PM. Right before I started to run, it began to rain.
I ran my typical favorite route through the neighborhood across from my old elementary school. It's an easy 4 miles with a few hills. I haven't run it in awhile, but didn't anticipate a problem. The roads in that neighborhood were recently paved, so that was nice.
I wasn't sure what to wear. Even though the rain stopped when I started, it was still cloudy, windy and cold. I elected to throw on a sweatshirt over the Lancaster Half Marathon shirt.
It was rough early on as I faced a lot of wind. After running hard on Wednesday, I settled into a nice, comfortable pace. The weather was really the only factor in the run. Up until about the halfway point, it was very windy.
After changing directions, the wind disappeared. I noticed that the sky was getting very dark and not just because it was getting late. It didn't look good, but I figured it would be over 15 minutes until the weather actually approached.
I started to get hot so I tied my sweatshirt to my waste. After about 2 minutes, it began to pour. I put the sweatshirt back on. The rain was brutal. It was a very cold November rain. It was blowing sideways too, because of the wind. It was almost unbearable.
The most surprise came though when I saw lightning and heard thunder. Since when does this happen at this time of year? Luckily, it only occurred once as I was finishing up.
The final mile was a little cool, but pretty comfortable. I hit one short turn against a strong head wind though. I couldn't have run much longer in those conditions. I finished up at a nice pace and then walked. I couldn't wait to get indoors.
I'll be running 12 miles here on Saturday. I think I'll run up to my old high school and back. That's actually only about 10 miles though, so I'll have add on a little more. I'm really enjoying this taper period. My legs are starting to recover and things should get even better.
My friend already asked where her couch to 5K plan is. I have to get on that I guess, although I don't think she'll start running until after the winter. Maybe she'll surprise me. I really look forward to trying to work with her. It should be a nice challenge and also fun.
4 miles - 34:10 (8:33 pace)
I ran my typical favorite route through the neighborhood across from my old elementary school. It's an easy 4 miles with a few hills. I haven't run it in awhile, but didn't anticipate a problem. The roads in that neighborhood were recently paved, so that was nice.
I wasn't sure what to wear. Even though the rain stopped when I started, it was still cloudy, windy and cold. I elected to throw on a sweatshirt over the Lancaster Half Marathon shirt.
It was rough early on as I faced a lot of wind. After running hard on Wednesday, I settled into a nice, comfortable pace. The weather was really the only factor in the run. Up until about the halfway point, it was very windy.
After changing directions, the wind disappeared. I noticed that the sky was getting very dark and not just because it was getting late. It didn't look good, but I figured it would be over 15 minutes until the weather actually approached.
I started to get hot so I tied my sweatshirt to my waste. After about 2 minutes, it began to pour. I put the sweatshirt back on. The rain was brutal. It was a very cold November rain. It was blowing sideways too, because of the wind. It was almost unbearable.
The most surprise came though when I saw lightning and heard thunder. Since when does this happen at this time of year? Luckily, it only occurred once as I was finishing up.
The final mile was a little cool, but pretty comfortable. I hit one short turn against a strong head wind though. I couldn't have run much longer in those conditions. I finished up at a nice pace and then walked. I couldn't wait to get indoors.
I'll be running 12 miles here on Saturday. I think I'll run up to my old high school and back. That's actually only about 10 miles though, so I'll have add on a little more. I'm really enjoying this taper period. My legs are starting to recover and things should get even better.
My friend already asked where her couch to 5K plan is. I have to get on that I guess, although I don't think she'll start running until after the winter. Maybe she'll surprise me. I really look forward to trying to work with her. It should be a nice challenge and also fun.
4 miles - 34:10 (8:33 pace)
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Flying
I was a bit worried about my sore left foot yesterday. It felt great today though and I had no problems. I went out and ran a very fast mid week 8 mile run. I did the loop, starting on West River Drive.
As usual, I took it slow early on and got into a groove. Yesterday, there was a lot of wind. Today, was very nice. It was nearly perfect. It was a little cool and some slight wind, but overall very comfortable.
My quads were still very sore. My calves were pretty sore, but the rest of my body felt pretty good. It's odd how I was sore at the slow pace, but once I picked it up, I felt good.
I started to pick up the pace as I got to the Montgomery Drive. I focused on running at a nice pace until the Strawberry Mansion Bridge. That continued to Falls Bridge as well. On the way back, I continued to push hard and focus on running until specific points.
I though at some point, I'd slip up and start to wear down. It never happened though, as I got closer and closer to Lloyd Hall. Some leaves were a little slippery, but other than that, there were few issues. I was flying. I kept talking to myself to keep myself mentally strong and that was a big help.
This run was very rewarding and I haven't felt better in a long time. Hopefully, my sore legs will improve as I continue to taper. I want them to start feeling very sharp. I feel excellent mentally right now and want the same to happen physically too.
After the hard run today, tomorrow will be an easy 4 miler. I'd like to run it in the morning this time, but we'll see how I feel then. I'd imagine that I'd be quite sore.
8 miles - 1:01:21 (7:40 pace)
As usual, I took it slow early on and got into a groove. Yesterday, there was a lot of wind. Today, was very nice. It was nearly perfect. It was a little cool and some slight wind, but overall very comfortable.
My quads were still very sore. My calves were pretty sore, but the rest of my body felt pretty good. It's odd how I was sore at the slow pace, but once I picked it up, I felt good.
I started to pick up the pace as I got to the Montgomery Drive. I focused on running at a nice pace until the Strawberry Mansion Bridge. That continued to Falls Bridge as well. On the way back, I continued to push hard and focus on running until specific points.
I though at some point, I'd slip up and start to wear down. It never happened though, as I got closer and closer to Lloyd Hall. Some leaves were a little slippery, but other than that, there were few issues. I was flying. I kept talking to myself to keep myself mentally strong and that was a big help.
This run was very rewarding and I haven't felt better in a long time. Hopefully, my sore legs will improve as I continue to taper. I want them to start feeling very sharp. I feel excellent mentally right now and want the same to happen physically too.
After the hard run today, tomorrow will be an easy 4 miler. I'd like to run it in the morning this time, but we'll see how I feel then. I'd imagine that I'd be quite sore.
8 miles - 1:01:21 (7:40 pace)
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Not Fully Recovered
Well not surprisingly, I was very still very sore during today's easy 5 mile run. I did the same short mile out and back along Kelly Drive, followed by the Schuykill Banks loop. The temperature was nice, but the wind was brutal.
The windy conditions along the river is my biggest concern as the marathon approaches. It was brutal today on the way out a long Kelly Drive. Not the way to start. Luckily, there was no wind on the way back and it wasn't nearly as bad on the Schuykill Banks loop either.
I started off slow and my legs were quite sore. That was expected after the 20 mile run on Saturday. My first run every week is usually difficult. Once I get through it, things typically get easier. It shouldn't be as tough anymore, since I'm now in the taper period.
After the slow start, I got into a nice rhythm and cruised along at a fine pace. I didn't push hard enough to where my breathing was affected, but I was moving quite well.
My biggest concern isn't my sore legs though. It's my left foot. It has been bothering me for weeks and is now quite sore after today's run. I iced it, but it didn't get any better. I'm hoping the reduced miles will help it heal better. I'll have to monitor it though.
I ran in the afternoon today and I really hate doing that. It's hard to get out the door then. I like to run first thing and get it out of the way. I've been having trouble falling asleep lately though, especially with all the Phillies playoff games. I need to get back to a nice sleep schedule soon. That'll keep me well rested for the marathon.
Tomorrow is a scheduled 8 mile run. I'll probably the loop. I'd like to run in the morning, but it depends if I can get up and also how my body feels.
I am looking forward to using some of my extra time now to put together a couch to 5K training plan for my friend. I'll help her become and runner and also run with her. I'm glad someone is finally willing to take my instructions. It'll be a fun little project.
5 miles - 40:16 (8:03 pace)
The windy conditions along the river is my biggest concern as the marathon approaches. It was brutal today on the way out a long Kelly Drive. Not the way to start. Luckily, there was no wind on the way back and it wasn't nearly as bad on the Schuykill Banks loop either.
I started off slow and my legs were quite sore. That was expected after the 20 mile run on Saturday. My first run every week is usually difficult. Once I get through it, things typically get easier. It shouldn't be as tough anymore, since I'm now in the taper period.
After the slow start, I got into a nice rhythm and cruised along at a fine pace. I didn't push hard enough to where my breathing was affected, but I was moving quite well.
My biggest concern isn't my sore legs though. It's my left foot. It has been bothering me for weeks and is now quite sore after today's run. I iced it, but it didn't get any better. I'm hoping the reduced miles will help it heal better. I'll have to monitor it though.
I ran in the afternoon today and I really hate doing that. It's hard to get out the door then. I like to run first thing and get it out of the way. I've been having trouble falling asleep lately though, especially with all the Phillies playoff games. I need to get back to a nice sleep schedule soon. That'll keep me well rested for the marathon.
Tomorrow is a scheduled 8 mile run. I'll probably the loop. I'd like to run in the morning, but it depends if I can get up and also how my body feels.
I am looking forward to using some of my extra time now to put together a couch to 5K training plan for my friend. I'll help her become and runner and also run with her. I'm glad someone is finally willing to take my instructions. It'll be a fun little project.
5 miles - 40:16 (8:03 pace)
Monday, November 2, 2009
Too Windy to Ride
Today, I wrote on my bike for almost 45 minutes. I didn't get a chance to ride on Sunday because of the Eagles game, so I switched it up until today. I rode along West River Drive to the Strawberry Mansion Bridge and back.
It was 51 degrees and windy. I really don't know how people can cycle in the winter. It's not even that cold yet, but today was brutal. My ears and face were very uncomfortable.
I actually overdressed on the rest of my clothes. I wore a long sleeve shirt under my jacket and a pair of long pants too. I was sweating a lot by the end of the ride.
I was actually impressed that I even rode for as long as I did. I didn't pedal hard at all. I just cruised along. Cycling has been a good recovery, but I'm glad it's over. I don't know if it was the ice bath or what, but I recovered much better from the 20 mile run than I anticipated.
I am now in the taper phase of my training. It'll feel great to cut back before the marathon. I still have some relatively long runs. Tomorrow, will be a 5 miler. The mid week run is still 8 miles and this weekend's long run is 12 miles. I'm going to work on fine tuning my speed and keeping my workouts crisp.
It was 51 degrees and windy. I really don't know how people can cycle in the winter. It's not even that cold yet, but today was brutal. My ears and face were very uncomfortable.
I actually overdressed on the rest of my clothes. I wore a long sleeve shirt under my jacket and a pair of long pants too. I was sweating a lot by the end of the ride.
I was actually impressed that I even rode for as long as I did. I didn't pedal hard at all. I just cruised along. Cycling has been a good recovery, but I'm glad it's over. I don't know if it was the ice bath or what, but I recovered much better from the 20 mile run than I anticipated.
I am now in the taper phase of my training. It'll feel great to cut back before the marathon. I still have some relatively long runs. Tomorrow, will be a 5 miler. The mid week run is still 8 miles and this weekend's long run is 12 miles. I'm going to work on fine tuning my speed and keeping my workouts crisp.
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