Virtual Running Buddies 8/22-8/8

[Laura]

Hello, Not sure that I should be starting the thread this week, as I have been less than stellar on my workouts. I had two shorter treadmill workouts this week, and hopefully will go 7 this afternoon. It has started getting hot again (low 90's) and I am running the 1/2 marathon course (as a practice run) this Sunday. Blech!

Kristilyn~ glad you are doing so well with your running. That is awesome that you running 6 a day. I have not really lost any weight from my running, but am seeming to maintain, and my legs are definitely getting in really good shape.

Les, I am sorry your shoes are not working out. I really should go get a new pair. I ended up with 6 blisters on my long run last week. If I hadn't slathered my feet in body glide, it probably would have been a lot more.

Hope everyone has good runs and a great weekend plan.

[Leslie Ferguson]

Laura - Sorry to hear that you aren't too happy about your runs this past week - but don't let it get you down. You are too close to your race to get bogged down. Just think, you'll be (racing) soon. Just stick with it a little longer. Sorry to hear about your feet/shoes. My shoe problems normally show up in my knees rather than my feet. Feet problems come with the new shoes. :D For tomorrow's run just remember 1) keep hydrated and 2) speed kills (especially with temps in the 90s). I know that goes without saying - kind of saying that for my benefit.

Welcome to all the newbies/delurkers from last week - hope you enjoy our neat and merry band.

Taking a well needed rest today - and a short run tomorrow. Just 10 miles.

Peace to all,
Les

[msxy75]

I too am taking a rest today, Laura hopefully your run of the 1/2 marathon course goes well. Maybe running the course will give you that boost to get your groove on. ;) When is your 1/2 marathon?

Welcome back Seathyme and Kristilyn!!

Hope your weekends are runner friendly!

michelle

[MaryH]

Ah well, I posted on last week's thread yesterday but hey. This morning there was a 4 mile race benefiting Cerebal Palsey. Came in at 38:00 which is fairly fast for me. I know I managed the last mile in just under 10:00. Tomorrow is a SLOW 7 mi, (three of the friends who did today's race are coming out tomorrow for the 7 miler.)

Laura, I figure you have to have those blah days, just so you know what the really good days feel like. Therefore, your next one has to be better. (It's like convincing yourself it's not a hill, it's just a speedbump.) :cool:

[Natasha3]

Hi all! :)

I haven't been around much these past few days, with work and everything else going on, but have been managing to fit in exercise (running, elliptical, etc., but mostly running). I had a really strong run yesterday and felt good about that, and would like to go out again tomorrow. Actually, I'd like to go out today, too, but probably that wouldn't be the wisest thing for me. ;)

Mary, good going on your run!! :) Sounds like it went really well.

Laura, good luck with the practice run of the half marathon course tomorrow.

Hi Les and Michelle!

Natasha

[Leslie Ferguson]

Well everyone - here's a shocker... I was a sluggard today SHOCK!! I slept in (probably needed to) and I didn't run today (ok - it was a step back day anyway). Actually probably needed the break - legs have been tired lately.

I will say that I did put the day to good use though - I spent most of it learning about a potential future vocation (prayer and healing ministries). Hard to take in a way - I'll be eligible to retire (from the Navy) in just under 2 years (at the roaring age of 42). So I need to really look for something to do with my time after the Navy. As much as I'd love to run and be an exercise coach I think I need to do something that has a little more stability. So today was a busy day learning more about that facet of ministry. I also topped the day off with a nice dinner with LW and my parents (they are in town for the week).

Hope that everyone is having a good weekend and not being the sluggard that Les has been. :rolleyes: ;)

Peace,
Les

[Jodi]

Hey, all!

I didn't even get a chance to read the posts from last week's thread, let alone reply -- things have been hectic beyond reason lately.:rolleyes: I went back to the doc for a follow-up from all the health issues over the summer, and he gave me a clean bill of health. No "leftovers" from the bronichitis, the strep throat, OR the walking pneumonia -- hurrah! Now I feel like I can push myself a bit harder, as I've been REALLY slacking this summer after doing so well to get into a routine in the spring.

Have a great week, everyone. My new shoes and I are on our way out for a run!

Jodi

[Natasha3]

Hi Jodi! Good to hear that you have that clean bill of health -- yay! How was your run with the new shoes? I hope things get less hectic for you soon; I know the feeling! :p

Susan, I didn't get a chance to mention your new shoes last week. That's great that you finally got them! How have they been so far? And hey - no hard feelings that you decided to try Brooks for a change. ;) :p Whatever works, right?

Les, sounds like yesterday was a most worthwhile day, and like you had a wonderful evening. Good to hear!

I went for an 8-mile run this morning and it was pretty fun. :) It was fairly cool yet sunny, so perfect for running. I do have a question, though:

Why are runners often not friendly to other runners?

I don't mean you guys, and I don't really mean runners in a run club. I know many of you have a lot of running buddies, and I have had them too, though none since I moved here. What I'm talking about is more the runners you encounter when you're on a run. When I run or walk or hike, I find that walkers/hikers are generally friendly. When I ride my bike, I find that other riders are extremely friendly -- we often stop to chat and discuss trails, compare notes on our bikes, etc. The great majority of adventure racers I've met have been sociable. But all too often I find runners who don't even want to give a quick wave, or say a simple "Good morning" as they pass (and that's even in my friendly smallish town). It's not everyone, of course, but it happens often enough to mystify me. I just don't get it. Is it the stereotype that runners are introverts? Are they just suffering too much to say hi? ;) Do they just think I'm just not "good enough" for them? (That would be odd, though, since I am a stronger runner than cyclist, and, as stated earlier, I find riders to be almost invariably friendly and supportive.)

I contemplated this earth-shattering question (right :p) for a little while as I ran this morning, and reached the conclusion that while I couldn't figure it out, darned if I was going to be unfriendly. So I just chirped, "Good morning" at everyone I passed, and figured that they could take it or leave it. :cool:

So -- any thoughts? A few of my friends and relatives like to take jabs at what they call "running snobs", and I'd like to prove to them that runners are NOT snobs, but it's hard when I too feel that quite a few of them are.

Vent/contemplative moment over. Off to get stuff done around the house. Happy Sunday, all!!!

Natasha

[MaryH]

Originally posted by Natasha3
Why are runners often not friendly to other runners?

I contemplated this earth-shattering question (right :p) for a little while as I ran this morning, and reached the conclusion that while I couldn't figure it out, darned if I was going to be unfriendly. So I just chirped, "Good morning" at everyone I passed, and figured that they could take it or leave it. :cool:

So -- any thoughts? A few of my friends and relatives like to take jabs at what they call "running snobs", and I'd like to prove to them that runners are NOT snobs, but it's hard when I too feel that quite a few of them are.

Funny you should ask. Just yesterday as we ran a local 4 mile race, my friend who was a small bit ahead of me at 3.5 miles said there was this women in front of her who was just b&^ching about everything. Now, I saw this woman turn around and say something but was too far behind to hear. Turns out she was upset because she didn't see any arrows and wanted to know where the "d*&m" arrows were. My friend who is very upbeat, positive, always says "good morning, had about had it with this woman and almost told her to just "be quiet" (ok she would not have been that polite.) We figured next time we'll just tell her to turn left, when she should be going right and see what happens. :cool: :D

I have to say though that I tend to find the runners here fairly freindly in terms of "good mornings" and such. What I notice is that bikers will do the little hand wave whereas the runners will say good morning. But, there are always some people who maybe are having a hard time of it and I just go by, say good morning, and keep on truckin' (slowly, but hey. :cool: )

And we discussed this during our 7 mile run today, so it must be somthing in the air or similar minds thinking on the same track (or rut. :) )

[Leslie Ferguson]

Originally posted by Natasha3
Hi Jodi! Good to hear that you have that clean bill of health -- yay! How was your run with the new shoes? I hope things get less hectic for you soon; I know the feeling! :p

Ditto here too - glad to hear that you're fully cleared. I know that must be a load off your shoulders.


Les, sounds like yesterday was a most worthwhile day, and like you had a wonderful evening. Good to hear!

Absolutely a fabulous day and wonderful evening. I actually had a thought - if I really missed the run then it was probably a good thing to not have run. That may sound strange but when I start pushing too much then I really drive myself to run - often when I shouldn't. So I really think that missing the run was the best thing for me all around.


Why are runners often not friendly to other runners?

What I'm talking about is more the runners you encounter when you're on a run... But all too often I find runners who don't even want to give a quick wave, or say a simple "Good morning" as they pass (and that's even in my friendly smallish town)... Is it the stereotype that runners are introverts? Are they just suffering too much to say hi? ;) Do they just think I'm just not "good enough" for them? (That would be odd, though, since I am a stronger runner than cyclist, and, as stated earlier, I find riders to be almost invariably friendly and supportive.)

I contemplated this earth-shattering question (right :p) for a little while as I ran this morning, and reached the conclusion that while I couldn't figure it out, darned if I was going to be unfriendly. So I just chirped, "Good morning" at everyone I passed, and figured that they could take it or leave it. :cool:

So -- any thoughts? A few of my friends and relatives like to take jabs at what they call "running snobs", and I'd like to prove to them that runners are NOT snobs, but it's hard when I too feel that quite a few of them are.

Natasha

Two thoughts from here:
(1) Most folks who don't really like to run or who don't get something intrinsic from being out on the trail are generally "grumpy" on the trail. These folks may be running out of a sense of obligation (need to run to burn calories/lose weight) or they may be driven to run for some reason that isn't their own. Thus they are grumpy when they run.
(2) When folks run too fast or too far they tend to be grumpy. I know this from experience when I'm out with a running buddy that is slower than I am and we have a quick pace. He is very testy on the run while the times when we are at a better pace he's pretty nice.

I, like you try to say hi and wave to everyone on the trail/road as much as possible. Expecially when I'm running at my folks place - they live in a town of ~2000 and almost everyone waves back.

As for running snobs - I'd imagine that most of them try to run where lots of people will see them - to feed their sense of importance. And they won't be out on the dirty/muddy trails but on the nicer paved trails - because it wouldn't do to look like I do on most weekends - mud to my hips.

A no vote for running snobs.

Today's crosstraining day was good - protected my shoulder a little and I think that I'll be in good form for the 1/2 marathon on Sunday.

Hope the week goes well for everyone - this one will be a little longer than last week but the carrot is the 1/2.

Ciao,
Les

[Laura]

Hey all, well I didn't do the trial run for the 1/2. Boulder is about 90 miles from where I live and we decided we didn't want to spend the time driving up there runnning, and then doing the drive back as it would have been around 5 hours all total. It was probably a good thing as I had a horrible run yesterday. I wasn't hydrated enough, it was very warm, and I actually stopped after 9 miles (as it was that was where one of cars was parked so it made sense to stop there as opposed to runnning 2 more down and then 2 back). I am trying not to beat myself up about it. I know that I will do fine in the 1/2, I just really need to make the effort to start off the day before my long runs by hydrating well as I find it difficult to drink a lot when I am running. I lost 4 pounds of fluids, which seems like a lot for a 9 mile run, so I will have to be more careful next week (when we will do the 13 mile run).

Regarding runners, I find that young men (30 or younger) tend to be the least friendly out on the trails. They seem to be so focused on kicking butt, that they don't seem to want to bother to say hello. Either that or I am getting old enough now, that it is not worth their time! :D :rolleyes: ;)

[Kristilyn1]

my younger brother got married on Saturday and in spite of only getting 3 hours of sleep Friday night, dh and I did slip out and do a leisurely 3 miles on Saturday morning---I think it's the only thing that kept me awake that day.

Sunday I ATE, ATE and ATE, visited with extended family members and generally had a WONDERFUL day and didn't run at all.

Unfriendly runners--I run into that here too--we live in a very snotty, rich neighborhood (one of those middle class neighborhoods tucked into some hoity-toity area) and 70% of the runners don't bother to say hi or even smile--I find it VERY annoying. I'm not a chirpy, high-test runner but I am casually friendly.

The dog walkers are even more unfriendly if that's possible.

Kristi

[SusanMac]

Good question, Natasha. I've found runner-friendliness to vary from region to region. N. California was very unfriendly. I think that's the competitive & overpopulated aspects of the area. Colorado was so-so. Wisconsin has been the friendliest. But, I agree w/others that the track team boys never wave (not very cool, I'm sure :-) and that always makes me just laugh. And, both hikers & bikers are way, way more friendly.

I think a reason for runner unfriendliness is because it tends to be a very solitary sport and because people often use the time to internalize and do some serious thinking.

I also agree w/Les that a lot of people out there run because they "have to," but have not yet gotten to a point where they do it because they enjoy it. In fact, a recent CL BB thread asked if people worked out because they loved it or because they had to and I was really surprised that most people said 'because they had to'....and that's among a population that's interested in health!

So, new shoe report -- they're doing great so far! I've had 2 runs in the new Brooks and the fit, stability and cushion are great. I've noticed, however, that there isn't as much cusion in the toe as I'm used to (Michelle -- do you find the same thing?). So, on my 6-mile run my toes were kind of fatigued at the end. Hopefully that won't ever pose any problems.

Anyone have fun plans for Labor Day weekend??

[Natasha]

I think you guys are right. A lot of runners really don't enjoy it. When you see people out there riding or something, chances are they're out there because they find it fun. Running, well, some people just seem to do it to burn calories and such, which is hard to understand when you just loooove to run, right? :)

Anyway, thanks for your responses!! I feel better now, knowing I wasn't just losing my mind. ;) I think, too, that my view was a bit skewed -- I saw more not-very-friendly people than usual. Just happens. Also, please don't think I'm saying people need be falling all over themselves to say hi and so on. I just think it's a nice touch. I too love to contemplate life and the universe when I run, but still enjoy getting a smile or a friendly word.

Susan, good to hear the First Shoe Report! I hope the toe issue subsides as you get more used to them.

Gotta go. Catch you all later!

Natasha

[msxy75]

Hello all, on the friendly vs unfriendly runners, I actually have a great area here that runners are pretty friendly and say good morning but most often give you a wave, the ones that don't I just ignore and carry on my merry way. The bikers are the ones that don't generally say hello but I don't mind as I usually am running along the horse trail so I don't see them most of the time.

Susan in answer to your toe question, I haven't found that my toes are fatiqued although last time I was running my one toe did cramp while I was running. I have however had a blister form twice on my one toe at the end which I think is just due to me getting used to the shoes.

By the way just got my laptop hooked to my laptop so as soon as I get a chance I will scan a picture of my four legged running partner.

Oooh for Labor day has nothing to do with running but DBF and I are going to hit the concert festival (I forget the name of it) but it's on all weekend. Some big names are coming, ie. REM, Macy Grey, am looking forward to that. As long as I don't get called into work.

michelle

[Leslie Ferguson]

Hey gang - interesting run this evening. I'll start by saying that I must be a glutton for punishment (is that a shock? :confused: TIC) . Tonight's run was supposed to be (and was) 5 x hills. I decided to try the "scheduled" type of hill - "200-400 m of 10-15% incline at 10k pace". Not really knowing if there are any 10% inclines in Norfolk (I'd guess not) I decided to do them on the treadmill. Big mistake. I did the first repeat on a 10% incline at 10k pace (worked out to 7:08 on the treadmill was the closest). I struggled through an eighth of a mile (just over 200 m) and felt like I was going to get slung off the machine. I did the next 4 repeats on either a 5 or 5.5% incline at the same speed and came through okay. I'll have to let the coach know that 10% incline may not be the one that you want for hill work (plus I'm sure they are hard to find).

Laura - Good to find out about the hydration thing before the race. Worth trying to see how your body deals with hydration this week coming up. I'd be careful putting too much liquid in your system before your race - may cause gastric distress (upset stomach).

Labor Day fun - recovery from the Rock 'n Roll half marathon from Sunday.

Gotta fly - LW just woke up with a terrible cramp in her calf - I'll see if I can provide some relief for her.

Peace,
Les

[Sashasmom]

Hello all I'm not sure if I belong here or not. I've been running for about four years. I spent years being overweight and finally decided about six years ago I didn't want to be. I got in shape and discovered a love of running. I'm orignally from upstate NY and had a great running support group there. I had running buddies and lots of people to race with. I moved to Phoenix about three years ago and haven't been able to find people to run with. I recently had a baby and was only able to run for the first trimester. Right now I just started back into running and have been treadmill running because it is sooooo hot in Arizona in the summer. It doesn't start cooling down until October. I am training for the debut of the Rock n Roll Arizona (I'm just going to do the half marathon) and I would love to have support of fellow runners even if I can't have someone to run with!
Melissa

[scout1222]

Melissa! Welcome to the thread.

I will be in Arizona for the inaugural Rock and Roll. I'll be running the full marathon.

I can't imagine doing long runs in the summer Phoenix heat. :(

[Sashasmom]

Good for you! I wish I could do the full. I need a training buddy to keep me motivated for the long runs first! How many marathons have you run?
Melissa

[Leslie Ferguson]

Greeting and welcome Melissa!! Sounds like this is the place for you. I look forward to helping you get through your long runs and answering those running questions that you may have. We're just one big happy family. Good for you to pick a great run as your first 1/2 marathon. I ran in the inaugural Virginia Beach Rock 'n Roll Half Marathon in 2001. What a great race. Plus my coach and a couple friends are planning on running the marathon in Arizona but I won't be there. Best of luck.
To cut your question off from the start I've raced in 4 full marathons and am training for my 5th (the Richmond VA Marathon) and I've run many half marathons - Norfolk (twice), Pomoco, Rock 'n Roll VA beach (second on Sunday), and a few others. Good to have you here - we're here to cheer you on as you log those first and last miles for your race.

Today's run was a short one - just 4.25-4.5 miles at a leisurely pace. I did the run after playing 18 holes of golf (boy do my shoulders ache). Just a recovery run today - looking at my 50 minutes of tempo run tomorrow.

BTW - LW was thrilled and her cramps went away. Luckily I was still up when they hit.

Look forward to hearing from our visitors and those who may be lurking in the wings.

Peace,
Les

[scout1222]

The RnR Arizona will be my fourth.

And when I run it, two years will have passed since the last one. Since I ran the first 3 in a period of 12 months, that seems like a long time. But I was on the verge of burnout, and needed to stick with half marathons for a while.

Got in a run this morning, despite really wanting to bail out. Man, I didn't feel like getting out of bed.

[SusanMac]

Welcome, Sashasmom! Good to have another new person to chat with about running. Over the past few months we've all gotten to know each other fairly well, and now tend to talk about all sorts of things. There are a few people here training for a 1/2, so you guys can definitely share training plans. I did a 1/2 in May and said I'd do another one in the fall. Well, it's almost Sept and I haven't picked one yet. Oh well. I'm training for a big biking event this Sun, so have been a bit more focused on that. I definitely want to do a few more races this year, but might not be as long.

I have a friend who lives in Phoenix and is very active with some local runners & triathlons. I'll see if it's an official group. I get the sense they're quite serious, though, so not sure if that would be your bag.

I didn't realize the Rock n Roll races were spreading so rapidly. They seem to be everywhere!

Natasha - your adventure race should be coming up soon, too. Isn't that some time in Sept? We need a reminder.

[Sashasmom]

Susan that would be wonderful if you could give me some info about runners in Phoenix. I actually was very serious while I was in NY but my life has gotten crazy since the move to Phoenix and with the new baby it was hard to get back to it! Now that she is getting older I need to get back to my old routines. Those long runs are very hard to get motivated for without a buddy! I was planning on running today on my treadmill but I lifted too much on Monday and my legs are killing me today. I need to take another day off today and run tomorrow. Thanks for your reply.
Melissa:p

[msxy75]

Welcome Melissa! I just got back into running in June and have never run a marathon. Right now I'm just working on increasing my speed some days and miles another day. I figure I will pick up a race here and there but just 5 or 10 km runs.

I also was going to bail on my run this morning but figured if I put my running clothes on then I would be more motivated. I packed the dog in the car and headed to the Arboretum for a run. I have never run there, it's really nice and the trails were great, we ended up running along the waterfront for half of the run. All in all though it didn't feel like a good run, glad I got it in but still wasn't a great run.

Susan any more trouble with the shoes? I am still finding that my one toe seems to rub on the bottom when I'm running, funny that it is just the one toe.Oh by the way I finally scanned some pics of my DGS but haven't been able to post them yet. Couldn't figure it out yesterday so will wait till my DBF finishes work and see if he can help me.

michelle

[Leslie Ferguson]

Originally posted by msxy75
I packed the dog in the car and headed to the Arboretum for a run. I have never run there, it's really nice and the trails were great, we ended up running along the waterfront for half of the run. All in all though it didn't feel like a good run, glad I got it in but still wasn't a great run.

I assume that Arboretun is the one over by UW campus correct. I remember going to one there with LW eons ago (1987). Lots of neat scenery and when we were there the geese were with goslings.


I am still finding that my one toe seems to rub on the bottom when I'm running, funny that it is just the one toe.

I've heard of and had that type of problem in the past. You may want to (1) check the inside of the shoe for a raised/rough spot that inflames the toe. If you don't find one the (2) try inserting a piece of moleskin orfelt on the underside of the tongue to provide a little "friction" to keep your foot from sliding around inside the shoe (a culprit for the condition you describe).

Today's run was tough. Not only was it terribly hot (about 95 dry bulb when I started with an apparent temp of 100+) my legs were a little wiped out from all the fun yesterday - the golf and my easy run.

Hope everyone is winding down for the summer and getting ready for a new school year (for those with kids) or just transitioning to the fall.

Peace,
Les

[msxy75]

You guessed it Les, it's just across the Montlake bridge or the 520 which is were I came from. The scenery is very nice but I didn't see any geese, just a couple of other dogs with their runner owners.

Thanks for the tips I will try those suggestions. It always seems to be the same toe all the time so will check it out. So far I'm 2 for 3 runs this week.

michelle:)

[Laura]

Welcome Melissa. I am doing my first 1/2 in 4.5 weeks. :eek:

Folks, I need some encouragement here. My past 2 runs have been really hard, physically, mentally everything. I am so close I know it, but it is really bumming me out. I know I am in good enough shape to do this, so what do I need to do, to keep myself going mentally. I don't want to totally bonk in the race. Any advice??

[scout1222]

Laura, I don't know if this will help or not, but I'll share it just in case.

So far, in all 3 marathons I've done, right before the race (like in the week or two prior) I have a whole bunch of bad runs. I think it's just the whole tapering effect. Whatever it is, I'll go out for something easy like a 30 minute run, and I feel like dying. And I wonder to myself "how in the heck am I going to make it through the marathon?"

Every single time I've managed to make it through the race. Don't underestimate the power and excitement of race day conditions. That can help give you some extra energy.

And don't underestimate the power of positive thinking. If you think you can, or if you think you can't - you're right!

So try thinking about what it will feel like to finish the half - how happy you'll be and how kick @ss you'll feel. You can do it! Even if you have to walk, shuffle, crawl or drag yourself across the line. Not finishing is NOT an option. [that's a good mantra for later in the race, even. Unless of course, physically you shouldn't finish - but we're going to assume that won't happen, right? ;)]

[Leslie Ferguson]

Michelle - Does that bring back fond memories. LW and I had a couple neat picnics when we were in Seattle. Montlake is beautiful and I looked at my pictures of the Arboretum this evening. You are breaking my heart - just jealous that you have that beautiful country to run and do things out of doors in.


Originally posted by Laura
Welcome Melissa. I am doing my first 1/2 in 4.5 weeks. :eek:

Folks, I need some encouragement here. My past 2 runs have been really hard, physically, mentally everything. I am so close I know it, but it is really bumming me out. I know I am in good enough shape to do this, so what do I need to do, to keep myself going mentally. I don't want to totally bonk in the race. Any advice??

4.5 weeks - it's all downhill from here. I can't say much more than Scout did previously. I tend to feel pretty blah and like I'm not running good runs about 3-5 weeks before the race. Remember that your training is reaching the peak miles right now. Your longest (and therefore most tiring) week should be 3 weeks before the race but the last couple weeks leading to your longest are probably the hardest. You are starting to feel every mile - every little ache and pain is HUGE right now. Like Scout said - you are ready to go and you will make it through the race in flying colors. I had the same feelings before my last Marathon in February. About 7 weeks before the race I hurt myself then took "forever to recover". 4 weeks out I had almost resigned myself to finishing as best I could even if it was the slowest marathon I'd ever run. As it ended up I set a PR by nearly 8:30.
Know that we're behind you all the way!! You won't bonk - you're way too well trained for that. The question isn't if you finish but when you finish.

Keep plugging in here and use your posts to build yourself up. Accentuate the positives - "I've just completed my 200th mile in preparation for the 1/2 marathon..." "Just think, in 3 weeks I'm racing in my first 1/2 marathon..." "Guess what? There are only 4 more long runs before the 1/2 marathon, and two of them are a walk in the park anymore {the last two runs should be 'easy' for you}."

Positive vibes being transmitted to you from Norfolk.

Peace,
Les

[MaryH]

Melissa, welcome.

Laura, I'm trying to think of something really witty but it's not coming (maybe it's too early :o ) but as everyone else has said, it's not whether you'll finish, it's when. Maybe it'll help to look it as, "hey I am doing 10-12 mile runs now and there was no way in h&^ll I thought I'd be able to do that when I started this."

On another front, I just returned from two days of being in Bakersfield on business and the following are some notes I made.

YOU KNOW YOU’RE A RUNNER WHEN:

1. ON A BUSINESS TRIP OUT OF TOWN, AFTER YOU CHECK-IN THE FIRST THING YOU DO IS CHECK THE YELLOW PAGES FOR A RUNNING STORE.

2. FAILING TO FIND ANY LISTED, YOU CALL A LOCAL BIKE SHOP, HOPING THEY CAN GIVE YOU SOME IDEAS ON WHERE THE RUNNING TRAILS ARE.

3. THEY’RE NOT ALL THAT HELPFUL AND CAN ONLY TELL YOU WHERE THE BIKE PATHS ARE, BUT THAT’S OK AND YOU GET THAT INFORMATION.

4. YOU HEAD DOWNSTAIRS TO THE FRONT DESK AND ASK WHERE THE PARK THAT THE BIKE SHOP TOLD YOU ABOUT IS.

5. THEY GIVE YOU DIRECTIONS AND TELL YOU IT’S ABOUT A 20-MINUTE DRIVE. YOU EAT DINNER AND THEN DECIDE TO DRIVE OUT THERE TO CHECK IT OUT.

6. AFTER DRIVING FOR CLOSER TO THIRTY MINUTES YOU FIND THE AREA. YOU CAN SEE A BIKE PATH PARALLEL TO THE ROAD FOR SOME STRETCHES AND TRY TO SET THE ODOMETER TO SEE HOW FAR A STRETCH GOES.

7. AFTER SPENDING ABOUT HALF AN HOUR DOING THIS YOU HEAD BACK A DIFFERENT WAY. ON THE WAY, YOU SEE ANOTHER PATH WITH RUNNERS ON IT, TRY TO MEASURE IT, AND UNSUCCESSFULLY TRY TO FIGURE OUT HOW YOU GOT THERE (AND/OR HOW YOU'D EVER FIND IT AGAIN).

8. AFTER FINALLY FINDING YOUR WAY BACK TO YOUR HOTEL, YOU DECIDE THAT WHILE THE AREA YOU SAW LOOKED OK, IT’S PRETTY RURAL, AND YOU DON’T THINK IT WOULD BE SO WISE TO GO ALL THE WAY OUT THERE FIRST THING IN THE MORNING AND RUN ALONE, SO YOU CONSOLE YOURSELF WITH THE FACT THAT YOU CAN GO TO THE GYM ACROSS THE STREET AND USE THE TREADMILL.

9. ALL THIS NOT BEING YET ENOUGH, YOU ASK AT THE FRONT DESK IF THEY KNOW OF ANY TRAILS THAT ARE CLOSER. THE INITIAL RESPONSE BEING A POLITE, “SORRY, I DON’T KNOW, I DON’T WALK/RUN” LATER LEADS TO A SUGGESTION TO CHECK OUT A PARK JUST DOWN THE STREET.

10. THE NEXT MORNING, YOU GO TO THE GYM AND USE THE TREADMILL, BUT THINK ALL THE TIME THAT YOU SHOULD BE OUTSIDE (EXCEPT OF COURSE FOR THAT BRIEF PERIOD WHEN THE THUNDER AND LIGHTING STARTS FOLLOWED BY RAIN).

11. AS YOU WONDER WHO THIS ALIEN IS INHABITING YOUR BODY THAT SAYS “RUN, RUN, RUN”, THAT AFTERNOON YOU CHECK OUT THE PARK DOWN THE STREET AND FIND A VISITOR’S CENTER THAT HAS MAPS OF A FAIRLY LONG BIKE PATH THAT RUNS FROM THE PARK (WOO HOO!!!!). ONLY PROBLEM IS, IT’S ABOUT 98 DEGREES AT 1:00 IN THE AFTERNOON, SO YOU FOREGO THE RUN UNTIL 6:30 P.M.

12. AT ABOUT 6:45 P.M. YOU HIT THE TRAIL AND GET IN ABOUT 2.5 TO 3 MILES!!!

13. YOU START THINKING ABOUT THE NEXT MORNING AND WONDERING IF YOU SHOULD DO STRENGTH TRAINING IN THE GYM OR HIT THAT TRAIL AT SUNRISE (OR BOTH).

:cool:

[Leslie Ferguson]

Mary H - That's great, the list that you put out. I'd add you know you're a runner when you pack more running equipment (shoes, socks, clothes) than non-running equipment for the trip. Likewise, you know you are a runner when your selection of lodging revolves around the availability of a gym/treadmill on site or ready access to running trails.

Have a great day,
Les

[SusanMac]

MARY - your post cracked me up! I love exploring new places/cities to run when I travel, but am tentative to head out by myself in a strange & unknown city. One of my favorite runs while traveling was a business trip to Philadelphia where I learned that my client also ran. We ran up and down the river and the top of the museum steps. Totally fun time.

LAURA - ditto for everyone else. Also remember that you don't need to be running 10-12 mile runs up until the race. From following your posts, it sounds like you hit some long distance pretty early on. Definitely get some rest. You won't lose any of the strength & endurance you've built up. In fact, rest will energize you.

LES/MICHELLE - While I was scanning your posts I read "Arboretum" and "UW" and thought you were talking about me!! I live near the University of Wisconsin, and the Aboretum is a few hundred feet from my front door. I run there all the time!

MICHELLE - no problems with my toes in the Brooks, but I've only been doing shorter runs of 30-45 minutes this week. The toe fatique (that sounds *so* strange) only kicks in on longer runs. I'm hoping it will go away. I'm also trying to improve/fix my weird stride to prevent calluses, so that could be the problem, as well.

QUESION/TIP OF THE WEEK - On a long run last Sunday with DH, we took turns running behind each other and watching our strides for several minutes. It was an awesome way to get a critique of how you run. DH doesn't get enough heel strike, so is now working on that. I learned that I put too much weight on my big toe/inside of my foot on the push-off, so am working on fixing that. Hoping it will improve my times and prevent injury. Have you guys ever done any stride analysis like this?? We're amateurs, but it was totally fun and useful.

[Leslie Ferguson]

Susan - How odd that there are actually two places with UW and have an Arboretum nearby. Way too freaky.
I haven't done stride analysis in a long time but did some at one point in time to help my speed (back when I wasn't built for speed). The method you've described is something that I've done for folks that I run with - but more often I watch them and then try to show them a neutral gait (mine is very neutral after all these years of trying to maintain a good stride). Hopefully you get good results from the analysis.

Les

[MaryH]

Originally posted by Leslie Ferguson
Mary H - That's great, the list that you put out. I'd add you know you're a runner when you pack more running equipment (shoes, socks, clothes) than non-running equipment for the trip. Likewise, you know you are a runner when your selection of lodging revolves around the availability of a gym/treadmill on site or ready access to running trails.

Have a great day,
Les

Yeah and what's "sad" is that I'm also guilty of BOTH of those. :cool: :D :) But it's good to know I'm not alone....

[msxy75]

Susan that is soo crazy that the Arboretum and UW are similar. That was the first time that I have run there and loved it. It's quite large so am looking forward to exploring a few more trails there.

Mary your post was way too funny.

Les don't I know it that I'm very lucky to have some great places to go for hikes and runs.

Laura I wish I could give you words from the wise but since I haven't done a marathon or a 1/2 for that matter I would have to say that make sure you aren't being too hard on yourself. I think everyone else is right with the advice they have given you, just make sure you are getting enough rest too.

Hello to everyone else.

michelle

[msxy75]

Whew two posts in one day I must be on a roll. Anyhow decided to go out and do a short run of 2 miles. Felt great as lately my runs haven't felt great when I'm done like I'm pushing myself too hard or something. Anyhow I decided to go for a 2 mile run and to concentrate on my breathing, the first mile I just ran at my regular pace and for the second mile I kicked it up a notch. Felt really good and I left the heart monitor at home with the watch and everything. Okay thought I would just share my good run with you all.

Have a good day!

michelle

[Leslie Ferguson]

Their fate is sealed. The new shoes are goners. :( :mad: I was scheduled to do 8 miles at pace (plus warm up and cool down). I was only able to get through 1 mile of warm up then 4.5 miles of my 8 and my feet were ON FIRE. The toe box has gotten so stretched out I can't even tighten the shoes enough to snug up my forefoot. My feet are so raw from moving around in my shoes that my feet still hurt (and I finished running almost 5 hours ago and finished working out about 4.5 hours ago). To top it off the soles are more worn than on my old ones that had between 400 and 500 miles on them (and I've only had these for about 6 weeks, ~ 150-170 miles). But I'm concerned, because I'm not going to get a chance to put a good run into the new scooters because I'm off tomorrow and Saturday. I'll be okay but this isn't the way to head into a race.

Michelle - Great run. I'd love to be back in Seattle or at my folks place in Appomattox. The scenery and chances to get out amongst all the great outdoors is just a little lacking around here.

Besides a sucky run (BAD SHOES) I'll just have to chock up today's workout. Nothing to write home about. But I guess every run is a learning experience.

Be good to yourselves and I hope that everyone has a great weekend.

Ciao,
Les

[Natasha3]

So many posts, so little time! ;) I hope I don't forget anything, though I probably will.

Here goes!

Les, sorry to hear about the nasty shoes. :( That must be so disappointing. I hope your race goes well. What will you try next?

Mary, LOVED the list. It was priceless! :D

Laura, nothing to add except to echo the others' comments. The race motivation and energy and enthusiasm all around you should help tremendously. I'm sure you will have an awesome half marathon!! Hang in there.

Susan, yup, the race is in mid-Sept. but I haven't been on my mountain bike for, oh, a month or so. :eek: ;) I am not worried about the trekking, navigation and paddling, but am not sure if I'll feel good enough on the bike to actually race. Mountain biking tends to be a major component of these races, so we'll see what to do about that. Thanks for asking, and I'm glad that you like your new shoes!!

I've been running amid everything else going on this week, and hope to get out again today. Have a great long weekend!!

'K, gotta run (no pun intended).

Natasha

[Leslie Ferguson]

Natasha - The answer to the shoe question is on the new thread.
Au revoir,
Les