Allright so I did my first training run for the GW Classic 10miler. Andrea (the saint) helped me create a schedule, so that I can hopefully achieve my goal of running the 10miles in 80minutes. I'll be sending out an email to our group to see if anyone wants the schedule and Andrea said it is easy to tweak based on your goal.
Anyway, I'm kinda freaking out now that I've actually put it out there because what if I can't do it. I know that I've done faster miles, but only for shorter distances. And my normal running rhythm is 8:15's not 8:00minute miles. I'm too competitive with myself and if I don't do it I'm going to feel like a total loser. I'm trying to get these thoughts out of my head so that I can really focus on the training, which I'm sure will make me a stronger runner. Okay only positive thoughts - I can totally achieve this goal!!!! I know that you all are not neccessarily trying for the same time, but I hope that we can hook up for some of the longer runs even if we don't run together the whole time. And there are several shorter runs 2-4mi. that need to be done at 9:30 pace too!
Monday, February 25, 2008
Sunday, February 24, 2008
FRC
Also, I love our team name. It makes me laugh. But I'm always walk the line between quirky and just plain odd, so if you want to change it I won't be offended.
J
J
Finally getting faster
I started running in August 2006. It was a huge lifestlye change for me. I have never ever in my life had a significant commitment to "working out" or physical fitenss. I always wanted to be one of those people who goes to the beach and runs on the sand in the early morning, but I never was. Not even close.
I found my SeeMommyRun group through my husband. Weird, I know. But he is a Runner. That's right, a runner with a capital "R," and he coaches high school runners. One of the women he coaches with is in our group and she told him about it and he told me. So, I found SMR through my husband. I first came out as a committed walker. But, then I realized that from a fitness standpoint you get so much more bang for your buck if you run! But, I had NEVER been an athelete or a runner type, and the transition was daunting.
Enter husband, again. He hooked me up with a good book, and I started training with an interval program out of Daniel's Running formula, second edition. I was very ordered and cerebral about it, following the program with commitment. I didn't actually believe I could actually accomplish my goal of being able to run for 30 minutes without walking. Following the program gave me confidence. Much to the amusement of my "running buddies" and my friends, I would not stray from the plan lest I not be able to accomplish a workout. The plan had four levels and each time move up a level I felt a little nervous. But each time, I did it. And in twelve weeks, with three work outs a week I trained my way to being able to run a 5K without stopping! I cried after I ran my first 5K race (but I often cry when I'm happy). I used chant to myself when I was running and heaving and wanting to quit "you will get faster, you will get stronger. it won't hurt so much..." I would repeat it over and over again. Even though I had made my goal of running the 5K I didn't feel much faster but I felt a little stronger.
Last summer, on our family vacations, I was that girl who got up early and took a run on the beach. I was so proud of myself. Now when I'm a little miserable during a run, I remind myself that finally I am becomming, in this way at least, the kind of person I always have wanted to be. For me, this is a big huge growing edge. And I am so thankful.
This winter I registered for a 10K race in June. Having never actually run 10K in one shot it's a decent goal for me. Also, I want to run those 10K's at a 10 minute mile pace. Really, I'd like to go a little faster so I can hit 60 minutes as a race time. This part is a HUGE goal for me, but after today, for the first time I think I really may be able to do it. I hurt my leg on Christmas, so I'm just getting back to running, but I had a pretty crazy fall and let's just say I wasn't too committed to my sport even before I was injured. I've been back at it for about a month.
Last week I ran around a local lake with a couple of teammates. In general, it's safe to say they are faster than me; significantly so. They ran speed intervals while I plugged around the lake with my goal being to make it all 4.7 miles without walking. They kept coming back to check on me, which was awesome because having company always rocks. I ran my fastest time around the lake that day- 48:33. I was so happy. Previously my fastest time had been around 51 minutes. I finally felt like I was getting faster.
Today I ran around the lake with my good friend and teammate, one of the girls who I ran with the previous week. Carin paced me around the lake, and I pushed myself just a little harder than usual. Today I ran my fastest time around the lake. 46:27. Go me. Thanks for the help, Carin.
Finally after all this time, I believe my ability to run. I will get faster! And now, I actually believe I might be able to make my race goals in June. This feeling for me is HUGE. In a few more weeks, I'll be ready to add "speed work" to my routine. Right now I'm just working to get in four runs a week. I am faster. I am stronger. Sometimes it still hurts, but not so much, and it doesn't make me as miserable. I am so glad I found my running friends. I am so proud of myself. I love being the kind of girl who runs on the beach. It is so good for me in so many ways.
I found my SeeMommyRun group through my husband. Weird, I know. But he is a Runner. That's right, a runner with a capital "R," and he coaches high school runners. One of the women he coaches with is in our group and she told him about it and he told me. So, I found SMR through my husband. I first came out as a committed walker. But, then I realized that from a fitness standpoint you get so much more bang for your buck if you run! But, I had NEVER been an athelete or a runner type, and the transition was daunting.
Enter husband, again. He hooked me up with a good book, and I started training with an interval program out of Daniel's Running formula, second edition. I was very ordered and cerebral about it, following the program with commitment. I didn't actually believe I could actually accomplish my goal of being able to run for 30 minutes without walking. Following the program gave me confidence. Much to the amusement of my "running buddies" and my friends, I would not stray from the plan lest I not be able to accomplish a workout. The plan had four levels and each time move up a level I felt a little nervous. But each time, I did it. And in twelve weeks, with three work outs a week I trained my way to being able to run a 5K without stopping! I cried after I ran my first 5K race (but I often cry when I'm happy). I used chant to myself when I was running and heaving and wanting to quit "you will get faster, you will get stronger. it won't hurt so much..." I would repeat it over and over again. Even though I had made my goal of running the 5K I didn't feel much faster but I felt a little stronger.
Last summer, on our family vacations, I was that girl who got up early and took a run on the beach. I was so proud of myself. Now when I'm a little miserable during a run, I remind myself that finally I am becomming, in this way at least, the kind of person I always have wanted to be. For me, this is a big huge growing edge. And I am so thankful.
This winter I registered for a 10K race in June. Having never actually run 10K in one shot it's a decent goal for me. Also, I want to run those 10K's at a 10 minute mile pace. Really, I'd like to go a little faster so I can hit 60 minutes as a race time. This part is a HUGE goal for me, but after today, for the first time I think I really may be able to do it. I hurt my leg on Christmas, so I'm just getting back to running, but I had a pretty crazy fall and let's just say I wasn't too committed to my sport even before I was injured. I've been back at it for about a month.
Last week I ran around a local lake with a couple of teammates. In general, it's safe to say they are faster than me; significantly so. They ran speed intervals while I plugged around the lake with my goal being to make it all 4.7 miles without walking. They kept coming back to check on me, which was awesome because having company always rocks. I ran my fastest time around the lake that day- 48:33. I was so happy. Previously my fastest time had been around 51 minutes. I finally felt like I was getting faster.
Today I ran around the lake with my good friend and teammate, one of the girls who I ran with the previous week. Carin paced me around the lake, and I pushed myself just a little harder than usual. Today I ran my fastest time around the lake. 46:27. Go me. Thanks for the help, Carin.
Finally after all this time, I believe my ability to run. I will get faster! And now, I actually believe I might be able to make my race goals in June. This feeling for me is HUGE. In a few more weeks, I'll be ready to add "speed work" to my routine. Right now I'm just working to get in four runs a week. I am faster. I am stronger. Sometimes it still hurts, but not so much, and it doesn't make me as miserable. I am so glad I found my running friends. I am so proud of myself. I love being the kind of girl who runs on the beach. It is so good for me in so many ways.
Our new team name: The Running Saps ;)
I was sitting here being all touched by the blogs and figured I'd add my own.
I also have no idea what I'd do without you guys. No subject is off limits. No matter what is going on, I know that I have a shoulder (or 10) to lean on. And when all I want to do is hide in my room, I get a call saying that I need to get my butt back out there. I can't wait to run with you all again, but getting a cup of Starbucks once in a while is pretty cool too. :)
I also have no idea what I'd do without you guys. No subject is off limits. No matter what is going on, I know that I have a shoulder (or 10) to lean on. And when all I want to do is hide in my room, I get a call saying that I need to get my butt back out there. I can't wait to run with you all again, but getting a cup of Starbucks once in a while is pretty cool too. :)
My team
Just a little note to let my team know how thankful I am for all of them. I had a baby 3 months ago. I can't imagine surviving without them. They are my support and sounding board.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Yeah I got in to blog. First I am so excited that I have such a cool team -you are all a lot of fun and I can't wait to get to know you all better.
I just can't tell you all how great it has been to meet the women/moms of SMR. When I lived in California I used to run with the Hash House Harriers and within that group I met some amazing woman. Our little group of woman (about 15 of us) still ran with the Hash, but also developed our own group "The Chicks" and ran together 2-3 times a week. This group of woman were everything to me - we supported each other through break-ups, job changes, moves and delighted in engagements, weddings and babies. So, when my husband and I decided to take the job in Virginia (so we could be closer to family) it was difficult to say the least. I was excited at the idea of being closer to my family, but deeply saddened at leaving all of my girlfriends. Since moving here though I have met wonderful people and have begun forging life long friendships. I truly look forward to developing these friendships with some new "chicks" as I know my old "chicks" would be thrilled.
TTFN
I just can't tell you all how great it has been to meet the women/moms of SMR. When I lived in California I used to run with the Hash House Harriers and within that group I met some amazing woman. Our little group of woman (about 15 of us) still ran with the Hash, but also developed our own group "The Chicks" and ran together 2-3 times a week. This group of woman were everything to me - we supported each other through break-ups, job changes, moves and delighted in engagements, weddings and babies. So, when my husband and I decided to take the job in Virginia (so we could be closer to family) it was difficult to say the least. I was excited at the idea of being closer to my family, but deeply saddened at leaving all of my girlfriends. Since moving here though I have met wonderful people and have begun forging life long friendships. I truly look forward to developing these friendships with some new "chicks" as I know my old "chicks" would be thrilled.
TTFN
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Man oh Man - I love my funky chickens. Here are some of the reasons in no particular order -
1. This past Monday Juliet blew her Burke Lake record out of the water. 48 minutes 33 seconds! 2.5 minutes faster than the old record. I am so happy we were there to see it. It was one of the best runs I have had in awhile.
2. Tara's passion for running. She is not back out there yet but she is raring to go. I can't wait to train with her. She is another one that makes it look easy. Maybe, just maybe,when she comes back out, I will be able to keep up with her.
3. Corky...Girl you are fast! "Oh, I just ran 6 miles at a 7:30 pace. I hope I can do 10 miles at 8" I just know this is going to be fun to watch. I have a good feeling the GW 10 miler is going to be one of your best. I hope I can see you zipping by.
4. Carinny - What a coach! She has always been my coach. This year I think she is even more motivational. Plus she is a beautiful, natural runner. Hopefully she can coach me to run so effortlessly. We had a kick butt day of intervals about a week ago. It was fun and made the run go so fast. I am really looking forward to training.
5. Me - I am feeling very strong. I really feel like I am going into this Spring with a clear mind and body. I think I may become the athlete I am in mind. Am I more receptive? What has changed?
Maybe it is the Mom's night in cocktails talking. I guess we will find out in the morning.
Oh yeah - I most of all love the belly laughs we have together.
1. This past Monday Juliet blew her Burke Lake record out of the water. 48 minutes 33 seconds! 2.5 minutes faster than the old record. I am so happy we were there to see it. It was one of the best runs I have had in awhile.
2. Tara's passion for running. She is not back out there yet but she is raring to go. I can't wait to train with her. She is another one that makes it look easy. Maybe, just maybe,when she comes back out, I will be able to keep up with her.
3. Corky...Girl you are fast! "Oh, I just ran 6 miles at a 7:30 pace. I hope I can do 10 miles at 8" I just know this is going to be fun to watch. I have a good feeling the GW 10 miler is going to be one of your best. I hope I can see you zipping by.
4. Carinny - What a coach! She has always been my coach. This year I think she is even more motivational. Plus she is a beautiful, natural runner. Hopefully she can coach me to run so effortlessly. We had a kick butt day of intervals about a week ago. It was fun and made the run go so fast. I am really looking forward to training.
5. Me - I am feeling very strong. I really feel like I am going into this Spring with a clear mind and body. I think I may become the athlete I am in mind. Am I more receptive? What has changed?
Maybe it is the Mom's night in cocktails talking. I guess we will find out in the morning.
Oh yeah - I most of all love the belly laughs we have together.
Friday, February 8, 2008
Running after baby... or lack thereof
Well, I think it's time to get some blogs up here, so I'll go ahead and start. Unfortunately, I can't write about running since I haven't been doing any since my son was born on December 31st. I had grand plans of running home from the hospital and falling right back into my routine, but here we are nearly 6 weeks later and I'm not running at all. I'd really like to start exercising again but with 4 kids, 3 under 4, it's hard to find the time, not to mention the energy. And did I mention the cold?? So I think the next year will really test my commitment to running. But my motivation is there since my jeans are a long way from fitting and I've realized how much I need that time by myself or with friends just running and doing something that is totally selfish. Something I do just for me. Plus I miss racing. I like the challenge and the satisfaction (and frustration) of it. So I know I'll get there, it's just going to be a longer road than I had hoped.
So right now, while I figure out how I can squeeze in workouts between feeding the baby and driving my 8 year old to soccer practice, I've decided to focus on food. I figure that good running really starts with a good diet and mine has been somewhat less than nutritious lately. And when I attempted to run (the 2 times I did since I had the baby) I realized how much harder it to run carrying around those extra pounds. Oh, and I'd like to find the person who said that breastfeeding made the pregancy pounds melt away. My pounds have taken up permanent residence on my butt and show no signs of going anywhere. So anyway, my goal for the next month is to find some good books on sports nutrition and work those meals into my weekly menu. I'll let you know how that goes.
So right now, while I figure out how I can squeeze in workouts between feeding the baby and driving my 8 year old to soccer practice, I've decided to focus on food. I figure that good running really starts with a good diet and mine has been somewhat less than nutritious lately. And when I attempted to run (the 2 times I did since I had the baby) I realized how much harder it to run carrying around those extra pounds. Oh, and I'd like to find the person who said that breastfeeding made the pregancy pounds melt away. My pounds have taken up permanent residence on my butt and show no signs of going anywhere. So anyway, my goal for the next month is to find some good books on sports nutrition and work those meals into my weekly menu. I'll let you know how that goes.
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