Virtual Running Buddies - 3/12-18

[SusanMac]

Wow - 3 pages last week! I figured it was time for a new thread, or we'd keep going on to 4 pages. Do we need a separate Virtual Allergy Buddies group?? Luckily, I have nothing to contribute there :-)

Went for a x-training swim last night to rest my joints from my Wed hill workout. Not sure what's in the cards today. I'm traveling for work Sun - Wed next week. I'll take my running stuff, but it's always so hard to get out, even though I love running in new places. Anyone got any good business-travel-running tips??

[TLee4]

Hi Susan (and all to follow!). Thanks for starting the thread. Happily, I seem to have outgrown many of my allergies.

Where are you traveling for work? Anywhere warm? I am SO SICK of cold!

I am getting ready to go to the gym on my lunch hour. I am hoping to do 6 miles. Tomorrow's long run doesn't have to be too long...I am only extending my long runs every OTHER weekend. (I just made up this plan on my own). So maybe 10 miles tomorrow, then next weekend I'll be up to 14 if all goes well.

Happy Friday, runners!
Terri

[Leslie Ferguson]

Susan - Thanks for starting a new thread. We were over 80 posts on last week's. WOW! Business-travel-running tips: I normally don't have a lot of troubles getting runs in on the road. But then again, I'm known to abuse my body and its sleep cycles when I travel anyway so... If flying I like to run the first day on the ground - just to reset my clock. It's especially helpful for me when I travel Eastward because it is hard to get back to normal time. Other than that, I try to take it easy on my first run just because I'm normally beat from the trip. I ask at the desk of the hotel if there's a good running trail close by. I really got strange looks when I ask that near Heathrow but most places in the US I've never had an issue.
Terri - A 10 miler - I'll be thinking of you when I do my 10-12 miler tomorrow. Take it easy whatever you do.

Resting today (and I need it). This week was a good step back week - should only end up with a total of ~42-44 miles for the week (a good step back from 56 the week before). It's just 5 weeks until Boston!! I think I'm getting stoked but still have my longest run of training next week -- 26 miles. :rolleyes:

Happy trails,
Les

[seathyme]

Good morning runners!:cool:

After taking it easy on the foot for a couple of days (which was not difficult what with a few 12 hour work days:rolleyes: ), Rocky and I ventured out this morning and had a lovely time. I was creaky for the first couple of miles and had trouble settling into a rhythm, but it got better and we did 6 with a little speed play. Mid-20's and wind -- a tad chilly, but it's a bright sunny day and I'm delighted to be back out there!

Now some domestic catch-up and long lunch with an old friend. Have a great day all!

[SusanMac]

This is my last checkin before hitting the road for my Baltimore conference. I did a 35-min tempo run yesterday, and think I went out a bit strong because I was sore in the afternoon. It was a good sore, though. Today I met with 5 friends for a low-key run and ended up running for a whole hour. It was a beautiful morning, so now I'm pumped for the rest of the day.

Les - thanks for the travel tips. Hopefully I'll get a nice run in. I have had a sore right groin (hate that word, but don't know what else to call it) for several weeks now that isn't going away. So it wouldn't be a horrible thing if I didn't run at all for 4 days. I start to feel like a slug, though, if I don't do something. We'll see.

5 weeks to go for you? that's exciting. Let's keep the countdown going!

Seathyme - congrats on your run with Rocky. Sounds like an awesome morning. Make sure you don't wear him out too much. 6 miles is getting up there for a dog.

Have a great weekend and Happy St Patty's Day everyone!

[TLee4]

Hi there. Hope everyone is enjoying the weekend. I just had a happy happy trip to my favorite running store. (Dick Pond's Athletics in case any IL people check in!) I had made the mistake of buying my past 2 pairs of running shoes at a local department store, and I've had nothing but trouble. So I went back and got the latest model of my trusty Nike Pegasus. And DH (who is not a runner but claims he will be, and is a sucker for good advertising) got a pair of those Nike Shox. If it motivates him to start running, it will be well worth the $100! I also got two pairs of shorts off of the clearance rack, and a fuel belt for when I finally get myself OUTDOORS.

So now I'm off to break in these new shoes!
Terri

[Laura]

Hi everyone, well I had a good, albeit short, run on Thursday. I think my run earlier in the week was so tough just because of sleep issues and because I had not hydrated myself well.

Today.... I did my first spinning class. Yowza, that was tough. Still, I can see myself getting hooked. I don't push myself when it comes to intervals or speed (I can with distance, but I choose not to with intervals). I think this will balance my running workouts nicely.


Tomorrow, I am planning a 45 minute treadmill run at my regular pace. I will put off the speed work that I had planned this weekend for another time (drat! ;)).

Seathyme, you are so good about being out there in the chilly weather. I think you can add me to the fair-weather crowd.

TLee, I really like my fuel belt. I don't notice it at all on my runs.

Susan, I hope you are able to get a few runs on your travel.

Well, I guess the only other news that I have is that some friends from work and I have decided to climb Pike's Peak in May. I have been wanting to climb it, but not to do it on my own. I am guessing it will take about 7 hours. Anyone have any good training tips? It is about an elevation gain of about 7800 feet and we top out at 14,000. We are taking the railway down, so I don't have to worry about that, but I am not much of a "hiker."

I hope everyone has a great weekend!

Laura

[TLee4]

Laura,
I'm so excited that you liked Spinning! If the seat hurt, it really does go away after a couple of weeks. Also, it is not recommended that you push yourself in sprints until you've been Spinning regularly for 6 weeks (maybe less for you since you are already fit, but it's good you held back).

Terri

[Leslie Ferguson]

Susan - It may be the time to take it easy on your leg/groin. Maybe some kind of cross training? Does your hotel have a pool that is long enough to swim laps in? (most don't :( ) Maybe there are bike to rent/use or stationary ones at the hotel too. If not, Baltimore is a nice place to get out on foot. I know, that's not the same but activity is activity sometimes. I'll kick in for the countdown (this shows the runner frame of reference) 1 24-26 miler (next weekend), 1 16-18 miler, 2 10-12 milers, and 1 8 miler and I'm in Boston. One of the 10-12 milers is today so... getting a little closer every day.

Laura - No advice for training to hike. But hill workouts, especially around the AF Academy hills, are helpful. Running on hills will make walking on hills that much easier.

Nice afternoon for a run so I"m getting ready to head out. Have a good Saturday and as Arnie says - I'll be back.

Happy trails,
Les

[TLee4]

Laura (or anyone with a fuel belt), how many bottles do you have on yours? I just got the one with two, and I'm thinking I should have gone for the 4. I have to go back there anyway to return DH's shoes (because he wanted RED :rolleyes: ) so I could easily exchange it.

Thanks!
Terri

[seathyme]

Hey Terri,
I got a 4-bottle fuel belt, though so far have just used two of them. The bottles are small, so I think as we heat up both the air and the distances, you might want more than two. My running store actually suggested I get six, but I couldn't see running around with all that around my waist!

[Laura]

I have the six bottle belt. I don't always carry all six with me, but generally on anything longer than 8 I do. But, I also have to very careful about hydration. Because I live at 6200 feet, the humidity is quite low, and because my heartrate gets pretty high when I'm not properly hydrated, I like to have more than I will need. It usually bugs me a little when I start with all six bottles, but I don't notice it after a few minutes.

[TLee4]

Thanks for the responses, Seathyme (is it Michelle, or did I make that up?) and Laura. I'll definitely exchange it.

My planned 10 miler today petered out to 6, for no reason other than "I didn't feel like it"! I'm hoping to do another 6 tomorrow to make up for it.

[Natasha]

Hi everyone!!

Quick check in here. :)

Susan, sorry to hear about your leg/groin, and have a good trip to Baltimore!

Les, how was the 10-12 miler?

Laura, congrats on your first spin class!!! They really do get easier quickly, and are addictive (that being said, I haven't done a spin class for a while now - I've just been doing it on my own, but would like to find a new good class). That's fantastic that you're going to climb Pikes Peak! It looks so gorgeous.

Hi Terri! Sounds like you had a lot of fun shopping for running gear. :D I hope your husband's new shoes (the RED ones, when you get them ;)) are motivating and fun for him.

Today was our first day of full downtime in a while, and it felt great. We went to a couple of bike stores and browsed a lot and bought a bit. I also hit the running store and stocked up on gels. We went to our favourite used bookstore and browsed, grocery shopped, and cross-trained at home (spinning and weights), before having a delicious dinner. Good day!

Take care, all,
Natasha

[TLee4]

Hi Natasha. Sounds like a fun day you had. I just love going to the running store, don't you?...I feel kind of excited on the way there! :)

Enjoy the rest of your weekend with DH. We ate too much FAT for dinner (burgers) and now we're just hanging out.
Terri

[Natasha]

Originally posted by TLee4
Hi Natasha. Sounds like a fun day you had. I just love going to the running store, don't you?...I feel kind of excited on the way there! :)

Enjoy the rest of your weekend with DH. We ate too much FAT for dinner (burgers) and now we're just hanging out.
Terri

Hey Terri!

Yes, I LOVE going to the running store, too. Only thing is, it can be a bit hard sometimes to stick to what I'm there for, and not buy other stuff. ;) I'm not much of a shopper with most other things, but running stuff and other kinds of gear, well, that can be another story. :p It's so easy to justify buying running stuff, given that it's good for you and so on and so forth (obviously I have rationalized this far too often - can you tell?)

I'm sure the burgers were delicious and well worth the splurge. Enjoy the rest of your weekend with your husband too! :)

Natasha

[Leslie Ferguson]

Natasha - I had a good run. Ended up with about 12.5 miles at about 8:20 pace. A little fast but (1) a hazard of running alone and (2) a hazard of running late in the afternoon when the temp is a little on the low side (47 with 13 mph winds from the ENE which is off the ocean/bay where the water temp is about 39 or 40) in a "hydro-vent" long-sleeved shirt (kind of a mesh shirt but not especially open mesh) and shorts. This time I went out with gloves on (a smart thing). Needless to say it was a bit cool in the shadows so I probably moved a little bit faster to keep warm for the whole run. Not a bad thing to take a day completely off every once in a while - especially this far away from your race.
Terri - Sorry about the disappointing run today. If it's any consolation I did a couple for you ;) - we can just (virtually) shift 2.5 from my 12.5 to your 6 and then we'll both be at or close to our goals.
Laura - That's probably a good idea for you to keep well hydrated being there in the high country. Us flat-landers need to keep hydrated too but mostly in the summer because of all the heat and humidity (I'd give a lot to have to worry about being fully hydrated right now though).

Other than that - a quiet evening. LW has had to deal with wedding/prom season for the past week at the fabric store she works at - lots of people wanting lots of fabric so she's beat. :( Treated her nicely to a little sushi/maki combo, a nice glass of wine, and a little TLC. Tomorrow's another day and I'm about ready to check this one in. Hope the rest of the weekend is productive and pleasant for you all. Check you in the morning.

Happy trails,
Les

[TLee4]

Originally posted by Leslie Ferguson
Terri - Sorry about the disappointing run today. If it's any consolation I did a couple for you ;) - we can just (virtually) shift 2.5 from my 12.5 to your 6 and then we'll both be at or close to our goals.
[/B]
Oooh..good plan! You can do my runs any time. Just to be fair, I'll eat all of your desserts for you. :)

[Natasha]

Hey folks,

Les, sounds like you had a nice run yesterday. Sorry to hear that your wife has been so busy at the store. I'm sure she appreciated your TLC yesterday, though!! :)

Terri, hey, no fair that you get Les' extra mileage AND the desserts!! :p ;)

I did about 14-15 km today, most of it with my husband. I would run on ahead and double back because our pace is different. We had a good time and I'm really proud of him because while he's very fit overall, running is not his forte and he had not run that far for many months. Part of me thought I should do more, but the other part (which obviously won out) thought I'd leave it at that and do some lower body weights later today.

Have a lovely rest of weekend!
Natasha

[Jodi]

Hello, all! Taking the day off today, unplanned, since DH and I helped friends move yesterday after my morning run. DH neglected to tell me that their apartment was on the 4th floor :rolleyes:, so needless to say I got in more of a "workout" than I anticipated. I did wake up to a bike this morning for my b-day and took it out for a leisurely spin before the rain moved in.

Terri, Can I have some of Les's miles if I share my dessert with you?? I think that sounds like a promising plan!

Enjoy what's left of the weekend, all!
Jodi

[aggie94]

I went to run tonight and the gym was still 78°. I called them first thing Friday morning to complain about it and to report a broken ceiling fan as well, and they assured me they'd take care of it. Well, the fan was fixed but they obviously didn't adjust the temperature. I am headed over to the office in person tomorrow to kick some *ss. :mad: I am fuming mad right now, especially since I've reported this twice, both times they assured me they'd take care of it, and they haven't done squat. I don't belong to a gym so I don't have anywhere else to go, but I would join one rather than waiting around for them to take care of this if I had some indication that they had no intention of fixing the problem. The management of my apartment building switched in late December, and I've had nothing but problems with them ever since. :mad: :mad:

Anyway, I had a pretty cruddy run tonight, although I still managed to squeak out 28 minutes, with a 2-minute walking break. It was just so stinkin' hot. There were about 4 of us in there tonight and we even propped the door open, but it was almost as hot outside as it was inside, so it didn't make much difference. :(

Off to Austin tomorrow night.....I'll try to check in from there. Have a great week!

Eva

[MaryH]

Originally posted by TLee4
Hi there. Hope everyone is enjoying the weekend. I just had a happy happy trip to my favorite running store. (Dick Pond's Athletics in case any IL people check in!) I had made the mistake of buying my past 2 pairs of running shoes at a local department store, and I've had nothing but trouble. So I went back and got the latest model of my trusty Nike Pegasus. And DH (who is not a runner but claims he will be, and is a sucker for good advertising) got a pair of those Nike Shox. If it motivates him to start running, it will be well worth the $100! I also got two pairs of shorts off of the clearance rack, and a fuel belt for when I finally get myself OUTDOORS.

So now I'm off to break in these new shoes!
Terri

FWIW, at one of the races I did a few weeks ago there was a local runner wearing a pair of Z-Coil shoes. He was going on and on to this other woman about how wonderful they are and how IHO they were much better than Nike's vbersion.

Here is a link to one of their web pages (stores in Ill.) I don't know if any of those are near you, but yoiur DH might want to look into it. http://www.zcoil.com/searchresult.cfm?StateSearch=IL

My fuel belt has four bottles and for me, six would be too much. Had to drive down to SD this weekend and brought stuff to run, but never did. So here's hoping this week is better.

[Leslie Ferguson]

Originally posted by MaryH
Had to drive down to SD this weekend and brought stuff to run, but never did. So here's hoping this week is better.

No wonder - Fresno to SD is a HAUL. I hope that you didn't have to do it in just two days. I've made that trip and the best I've ever done (of course before it was legal to go 75 ;) ) was most of the day (like about 8-10 hours) on the road.
Natahsa - That's great that you could run with DH - even if you are running faster than he is. It is doubly nice that you ran back for him, bet that made him feel good.
Eva - I'd be furious. :mad: It sounds like the appartment isn't very customer service oriented. Sorry about that. I hope they get their act together but you may be better off finding someplace else to depend on for workouts. Maybe the Y or some place that isn't too spendy and doesn't demand a big commitment. Enjoy Austin too. Nice place to be in March.
Terri - I wonder...

Now, now. I'm not sure that I have enough miles in me to go around but I'd be willing to talk about it. :D Maybe timesharing. Of course, at this point of my training I'm not doing many extra miles anymore. They've started to pile up and take their toll on me so I'm trying to stick with my schedule. And believe me there are plenty of miles there.
FWIW - the race that I'm running at (not racing but doing as a long run) is the color=green]Shamrock Marathon (http://www.shamrockmarathon.com) [/color]. I've been assigned #555. There must be something "mystical" about that number but I'm not a numerologist.

I did have a good weights workout - just enought to keep out of trouble and I hope I don't feel the squats tomorrow (first time in a while with the exercise :rolleyes: ).

Happy trails,
Les

[TLee4]

Hi there. You all are so cute. :)

Mary, thanks for the info. I also have to return MY shoes, as they are already blistering the side of my foot after 12 miles. (It's not like "new shoe" blister...I have had this happen with both other pairs of Nike Pegasus, but with them it didn't happen til they were old).

I have no idea what exercise I will do today, as I am headed off to JURY DUTY.

Happy Monday, all!
Terri

[seathyme]

Hey Runners,

Sorry about the heat, Ana, and good luck with the jury duty, Terri. Last time I did that, the "workout" consisted mainly of sitting around waiting for hours. But you'll be part of a great American institution, and there is always the suspense factor, finding out whether you'll end up on a jury!

Hmm, Les, number 555 for a luck 'o the Irish marathon. Sounds auspicious somehow! I hope it goes well and doesn't burn you out too much with Boston coming up. It's more of a "training run" than most of us would attempt!

Natasha your DH must be a cool guy. Some would have ego's too big to watch a wife sprint ahead and double back <she said, thinking of a certain guy she knows and loves>. Good for both of you.

No news is good news here. Did 4 yesterday and 3 plus weights today. Foot feels fine, and body is generally holding up to the new challenge. My weekly mileage has gone up from approx 15 to 24-28 over the past couple of months, and so far so good. I'm appreciating the challenge while praying I'll avoid injury!

Originally posted by TLee4
Thanks for the responses, Seathyme (is it Michelle, or did I make that up?) and Laura.

I believe Michelle has been MIA for awhile (are you out there and okay, Michelle?). I am another Stephanie, like Scout, so am just as happy to go by my on-line "handle" seathyme. :)

Have a good day all.

[Kristilyn1]

Hi all! I ate Les's dessert, and I didn't even run to get it, oh well.

Had my day spa visit on Saturday and had my hair done too--guess who's now a blonde? LOL. Luckily I'm not the type to spaz about my hair.......I have foils done to add some highlights but now I look more like a bleached blonde--and that was AFTER she told me she would leave a lot out so it wouldn't be too blonde--makes me wonder what SHE would have chosen left to her own devices.

Dh likes it, I can live with it---my kids now say I look like Auntie Kerry (my twin) and we haven't looked alike in years so that's kind of funny.

This week is the start of my challenging few training weeks--I've got two 4 milers, two 8 milers and then 17 on Sunday--this program has me doing two 20 milers before race day--I've never done two such long training runs, I believe I may get my new shoes next week to help me get through it. Thank goodness I've got Les and his crazy mileage to spur me on!

Good running people!

Kristi

[Natasha]

Hi Running Buddies!

Eva, that sounds like a building we used to live in. We used to prop open the door of the building's exercise room too. The windows in that room didn't even open, and the window A/C unit was not great. :rolleyes: Good luck with that, and have a great trip to Austin!! You must be so excited about seeing your husband (and your new kitchen ;)) again!

Terri, sorry to hear about your shoes. How was jury duty? Incidentally, I did buy new shoes last weekend, before the race, and thank goodness I did!

Kristi, the spa sounds like it was great!

Les, squats must have been the exercise du jour today. I did spinning for about 20-30 minutes today and did an extensive weight set - particularly lower body, including walking lunges, squats and what all. I hadn't done squats and lunges with weight in a long time, and it felt good to do them. Like you, I hope I don't feel the burn tomorrow!

Mary, that's too bad that you didn't get to run during your travels, but hopefully this week you will get to. :)

Jodi, sounds like you've been busy and active! Good to hear that you got in the bike ride as well as being such a good friend by helping move. How was your birthday generally?

Originally posted by seathyme

Natasha your DH must be a cool guy. Some would have ego's too big to watch a wife sprint ahead and double back <she said, thinking of a certain guy she knows and loves>. Good for both of you.

Thanks! I passed on your nice comment to my husband and he says THANKS also! Yes, he is a sweetie, and doesn't have an inferiority complex about our comparative running speeds. Mind you, he knows he can smoke me on a bike pretty much any day, and is a stronger paddler as well! ;) It works out nicely this way; we each have our strengths and can help the other along. That's awesome that your foot is feeling good and that you've been enjoying your runs!

Natasha

[Leslie Ferguson]

Natasha - I felt my squats today. But I did get my workout in. Alas, I missed my hills workout but cranked out 60 minutes of elliptical (all the treadmills were clobbered again).
seathyme - That's what I thought when I saw my number. The only number I think would be better would be 777 - but then I'm into perfect numbers. :D Especially that one.

I find it interesting that everyone is eating my dessert. I hope you enjoy it and what are we having for dessert tonight? I had yogurt, applesauce, raisins, and cold cereal (sans milk). But then again I am a growing boy. :D

Need to head to bed. Got clobbered trying to figure out that someone sent my LW a virus (that didn't infect our computer) that she wasn't sure about. She didn't open the attachment which was a good thing.

Maybe tomorrow I'll be more loquatious.

Happy sleepy trails,
Les

[Natasha]

Les,

Mmm, that sounds like a good snack. As far as desserts go, I'll share my homemade hermits (cookies) with anyone who's game. :) I'm munching one with my coffee as I write this. ;)

I like the 555 number too!

I'm not feeling the squats today, which is good. Hope to head out for a run later today.

Hope everyone is well.

'til tonight or tomorrow,
Natasha

[MaryH]

Originally posted by Natasha
I'm not feeling the squats today, which is good. Hope to head out for a run later today.

Well I must have gotten yours.:D I did them yesterday across the gymn floor with no weights and I started feeling them last night. So today may just be slllllooooooowwwwwwwwwwwww................ :cool:

[TLee4]

Hi all. Good job on your run and squats and lunges, all! When I do those walking lunges, my butt hurts (in a good way!) for two days.

Well, of COURSE I got picked for the jury. Twice in two years. Not sure what that says about me...The case will finish up today. It is a totally silly case that is quite a waste of time. I wish I could hear something INTERESTING at least!

The one redeeming thing about it was that I was able to try out a new gym last night. It is near the courthouse, and is a sister gym to the one I work at, so I could go for free. In general, I do all of my own weight workouts and never go to classes. So I stepped outside the box for once and went to a "Stacked and Pumped" class. It was good! Then I went to a Spin class, in case I found any new ideas to "borrow". :)

However, I'm sorry to tell you all that I am eating Les's, Natashas, and probably all of your desserts. I am such a sugar fiend...I need to go back to SBD or SOMETHING.
Have a great day!
Terri

p.s. there was one other redeeming thing...on my lunch break I went and exchanged my shoes, and got the bigger fuel belt. Oh, and ordered DH's shoes in RED!

[seathyme]

So it was long run day in Framingham, and I managed my goal of 10. Felt pretty good, too, I'm happy to say. The mental part was probably the biggest challenge, coming up with the positive self-talk, songs in my head, etc, to keep me going for an hour and a half plus a few. A few years ago after reading the Non Runners Marathon Trainer I ditched the headphones. This has brought me much closer to the running experience itself, rather than seeking distraction from it, and I'm quite sure I'm a better runner because of it -- does this make sense to anyone else? I prefer to use the time for my own thoughts, songs, focus on form, meditation, or general mindless chatter (not out loud, at least I hope!). But -- I'm still new to these double-digit runs, and it's quite a long time (at my speed...) to entertain myself! I'm curious what you all do to stay motivated on long runs.

All this talk of desserts is making my mouth water! Natasha I love hermits.:D And Terri I'm with you on eating enough for all of you combined. I can't bake, unfortunately, without going crazy "tasting.":rolleyes: Hope your DH has fun in his RED shoes!

Today (my day off) from here forward will include a visit to the tax accountant, for real fun, and then, apparently, a Snowstorm. Grr. Perhaps tonight and tomorrow morning's workouts will involve snow shovels.:rolleyes: And Sunday is the first day of spring -- hear that you weather gods?? We're ready already!

[Leslie Ferguson]

seathyme - Congrats on the 10 miler. I'd never heard about taking off headphones to better appreciate the running experience. Makes sense to me though. I'm a veteran of many long runs and I tell you there are many ways that I keep motivated to run during the run, and they all kind of change from week to week. Considering my chronic medical issue (hearing loss) and the fact that I don't care for things that bounce around or I hang on my arm (like the little arm band radio) I don't listen to music. I like talking with folks on long runs to pass the time - hence my burning desire to run with a group. But considering my inability to maintain my partners I tend to run alone and my motivation takes many forms during a run. I do everything from wondering how far (in steps) it is to some point farther down on my run (I'm anal retentive and mathematically inclined), I sing to myself (normally silently), I "solve all the worlds problems" when I can, and generally look for interesting things on the trail - like finding three family of geese that I'd never seen before.
Mary H - Isn't it interesting that it takes no weight to make you feel lunges? In all the exercises I do that has to be one of the lightest weights I workout with (12.5 pounds in each hand) and I'm still pretty spent by the end of 30 steps.

Raining in Norfolk as we speak - and I think it is a cold rain so... here I come ITP.

6 miles easy and I'm in for the day. So, Happy trails,
Les

[Valerie226]

Laura, congrats on your plans to hike Pike's peak. DH & I hike alot. we live at sealevel & living at 6200 feet is a plus. I've read about people doing PP in 2 days, and also in one. I didn't realize you could ride back down.

We exercise all year but the first couple hikes my legs get sore. Real sore. nothing gets you in shape for hiking other than hiking! Especially the downhill "braking" muscles that never seem to get worked on. If I were you I would do a couple moderate hikes before the big one. (Maybe you are a hiker & know this stuff. if so excuse me and I'll shut up) That is a BIG elevation gain and you will be carrying more weight than usual. You need survival gear water, food,etc. I know there are weather issues, wind, lightning and thunderstorms. I don't know if May is too early for that to be an issue. Definitely check ahead of time with the ranger station or park service ( I'm not sure who oversees the area). I was under the impression hikers need to schedule their hiking time accordingly, like starting out by 5 am to be off the summit by 2pm.
It's not something I would likely do, but look forward to hearing about your adventure.

[Laura]

Valerie, thanks for the tips. If the warm weather keeps up, I will probably start hiking the lower portion of the Barr Trail (the trail up) to get in shape. I am going with a couple of guys who have hiked it before and some complete novices (like me) in terms of hiking.

I don't know about timing. Yikes, 5:30 a.m. is way early. Perhaps we can get a later start with the knowledge that we are taking the railway back down. I can't believe that people actually "run" up it as part of a 1/2 or full marathon. The really insane ones run up for the 1/2 one day and do the full marathon the next! I will keep you apprised of my progress and how the actual hike goes if we do it. Weather is always a concern here (as it changes so quickly) and we won't go if it is "iffy."

[Leslie Ferguson]

Quick check in - got my mileage in tonight AFTER WORK :mad: but got in 6 1/4 easy miles on the treadmill (ITP wannabe distance). Pace tomorrow and easy on Thursday (which the coach hinted I may want to skip to be rested for Saturday). Then I'm in for the weekend. My coworker - the one I'm helping pace on Saturday started picking my brain today about race-day hints. My biggest ones were sleep now (you won't on Thrusday or Friday), double stretch, EAT, and buy yourself a pair of new running socks. She laughed but I was serious about all 4 things.

Sleep calls... happy trails,
Les

[Natasha]

Hi everyone!

Seathyme, that's great about the 10 miler. :)

I am another person who runs without music, unless I'm at the gym, in which case I listen to whatever is on. I don't like wearing stuff that bounces around, as Les said, and like to be alert on my runs. I also love just experiencing what is around me I run -- the sights, the sounds, the smells -- and feeling connected with my community (or the trails, or wherever I am running). That being said, music can be a great motivator and make a workout go by super quickly, and I can definitely see why people would like to run with their own music. :)

I fit in a run yesterday, before the weather turned somewhat nasty, and was pleased about that. I did a couple of long, gently sloping hill repeats too. I knew that today there would probably be too much snow at home to run, and that I wouldn't make it to the gym.

Take care, everyone, and have a great day! May the Luck o' the Irish be with you!! :D (says the woman who dared a colleague to wear green garb today and now is going to hear about it for the rest of the day :p :o)

[TLee4]

Originally posted by Natasha

I also love just experiencing what is around me I run -- the sights, the sounds, the smells -- and feeling connected with my community (or the trails, or wherever I am running).

See, to me, that is what distinguishes a REAL RUNNER. And I am not one. I like to be as distracted from the experience as possible. I never run without music. Usually I'm looking at the tv too!

Anyway, Happy St. Pat's Day, all. I'm done with jury duty (GUILTY!) and am back to work today. Also back for a treadmill run, hopefully 5-6 miles.

Terri

[Natasha]

Originally posted by TLee4


See, to me, that is what distinguishes a REAL RUNNER. And I am not one. I like to be as distracted from the experience as possible. I never run without music. Usually I'm looking at the tv too!

Anyway, Happy St. Pat's Day, all. I'm done with jury duty (GUILTY!) and am back to work today. Also back for a treadmill run, hopefully 5-6 miles.

Terri

Terri,

No, no, not at all -- you ARE a real runner!! :) We all are. I don't want to come across as high-and-mighty or anything. It's just my preference to not use music while running outside -- nothing AT ALL wrong with using it!! Besides, I'd be lying if I said I didn't derive great amusement from the TV at the gym at times, when cranking out long runs on the treadmill. I don't have TV at home, either, so have been known to time gym visits with a good hockey game or something. ;) :o Multi-tasking, y'know! :D

Wow, jury duty was short (not that you're complaining, I'm sure)! Enjoy your treadmill run today. :)

Natasha

[Leslie Ferguson]

Originally posted by TLee4


See, to me, that is what distinguishes a REAL RUNNER. And I am not one. I like to be as distracted from the experience as possible. I never run without music. Usually I'm looking at the tv too!

My problem with running and doing other things (unless I'm on the treadmill then I can watch the TV) is I'm clumsy enough to hurt myself when I'm really paying attention. You can only imagine what problems I have when I don't watch where I'm going on the trail or on the road. I will also caveat that when I started running a lot about 11 years ago I was the same - couldn't go out without music or something to distract. Now, because my mid-week runs are often "get out of the office" events and a stress reliever I try to do anything besides think about work/news/etc.

Anyway - I'd still consider you a runner not a jogger (or otherwise). You seem to get too much out of running besides calorie burning/exercise.

Take care all, 6 miles of pace around the corner today. Judges... will I get out at lunch or after work?

Happy trails,
Les

[Natasha]

Originally posted by Leslie Ferguson


My problem with running and doing other things (unless I'm on the treadmill then I can watch the TV) is I'm clumsy enough to hurt myself when I'm really paying attention. You can only imagine what problems I have when I don't watch where I'm going on the trail or on the road. I will also caveat that when I started running a lot about 11 years ago I was the same - couldn't go out without music or something to distract. Now, because my mid-week runs are often "get out of the office" events and a stress reliever I try to do anything besides think about work/news/etc.
Happy trails,
Les

Les, you sound like me. I think we've discussed this before (the klutz factor). I am such a klutz!!! I also like to use my run time to contemplate life and figure out stuff. :) I think I must also be nosy, because I like to see what's going on in town. :D

I think I stuck my foot in my mouth...hope not! I already did once today, by daring the colleague to wear green ;) -- I think I need more coffee!!

Les, I hope you get out for your run at lunch. Hopefully work will co-operate for you!

Natasha

[TLee4]

Hi again. Just so you know, I never experience either of you (Natasha or Les) as high and mighty! I just really think that some people ("real runners") really get into the EXPERIENCE of running, while others (like me!) are conflicted about how much we really like it(!) and like to distract ourselves! I'm comfortable with that. :)

[Natasha]

Terri,

On another topic, has your husband tried out his cool red shoes yet?? :) I hope he likes them!

Natasha

[TLee4]

No, they had to order them. They should be in in a few days. As I've mentioned, he doesn't run AT ALL but he has big plans. We'll see...:)

[Jodi]

Happy St. Patrick's Day, all! My godson asked me last night if I'm still Irish now that I'm married to a Chinese-American. Too cute, that kid.:p

Count me in on the klutz factor -- I could never listen to music while running outdoors, cause I'd end up with yet another ankle sprain.:rolleyes: Inside on the treadmill, though, I'm all about watching TV -- keeps me from getting bored.

I agree with the others: You ARE a real runner, Terri!

I ran on the treadmill yesterday, as it was SNOWING:rolleyes:, but I think I deserve my own acronym -- ITPW (Insane Treadmill Posse Wannabe), as I hardly ran the distance that the rest of the gang manages to, though in my defense 3 1/2 miles for me is pretty decent these days.

Hope you get out at lunch, Les!

[Kristilyn1]

Just finished my 8 for today. Wednesday usually means I have to get my run in at night but today worked out and it's nice to have it behind me. Inside I require television, turned full blast. Outside---I don't listen to anything. I'm completely paranoid about being taken by surprise or hit by a car AND I hate having something bouncing on my arm/hip whatever so I'm musicless outside. My fave thing is to peek in windows (from the street of course!) to see how people decorate their houses!

On the "You know you're a real runner when" thread---yesterday I drove up to NH to look at a prospective house and I remember saying to myself "Yikes, a little hilly around here for daily runs" and it definitely factored into how much I liked or dislike a house these days!

Keep your fingers crossed, we have an offer in on a house and hope to hear by today or tomorrow!

Kristi

[seathyme]

I certainly agree it's not a matter of "real" runners or otherwise. Terri, haven't you run enormous numbers of ITP miles?? Don't think you can do that half-heartedly!

I had a mixed experience ditching the headphones a few years ago. On the one hand, I had to come up with my own tricks for continuing when it got uncomfortable. Of course for some of us Yankee types suffering is a virtue, so you know, bring it on, as they say. :p :rolleyes: But on the less masochistic side, I also felt my breathing and form improved when I wasn't as distracted. And that in turn made the running easier and more fun. Fewer I-hate-how-uncomfortable-this-is moments. Now I choose songs to put in my head when I want them, and the tempo is always right because I'm making it up! Who cares what the writers and artists intended....

This morning was indeed the snow shoveling workout -- the stuff was wet and heavy! But back is intact and that's all I really worry about with shoveling. Happy St Paddy's Day everyone!

p.s. Good luck with the house, Kristi!:)

[Leslie Ferguson]

Kristi - Positive prayers and thoughts for you house offer. Things will work out - I'm sure. Congrats on your 8 miles too.
Jodi - Glad I'm not the only klutz on this thread. If I'm not paying attention to what I do I'll invariably run off the trail or into a lane. Shoot, I do that when I'm paying attention.

SUCCESS! I did my run at work today. :) :) Now I'm not going to be running 8 miles after work and getting home at some unreasonable hour again. Feels good too.

Oh well - back to work.
Happy trails,
Les

[Natasha]

Hi guys,

Day off training (first since last Wednesday).

Les, good going on the 8-miler over lunch!! :D Your wife must also have been happy you didn't have to run after work, though she sounds incredibly supportive. :)

Terri, well, maybe the shoes are what will spur your husband into LOVING running! :) You never know.

Kristi, good house vibes coming your way!

Jodi, welcome to the Klutz Klub. Guess there are at least three of us now: Les, you, and me. I'm soooo happy I'm not the only one out there who admits to being a klutz. ;)

Seathyme, that's good that the snow shovelling wasn't hard on your back. :)

Take care, all. I've pulled a few cookbooks out of my collection and am going to brainstorm for a Thai dinner we're making on Saturday. Mmm...Thai!

Natasha

[Leslie Ferguson]

Originally posted by Natasha
Les, good going on the 8-miler over lunch!! :D Your wife must also have been happy you didn't have to run after work, though she sounds incredibly supportive. :)
Sadly, LW worked until 8 tonight (and didn't work yesterday) so I had dinner alone after having made her wait for me to get home for dinner last night. LW is VERY supportive of my training - especially at this point in training. She knows that this is probably some of the most important training before the marathon.
Seathyme, that's good that the snow shovelling wasn't hard on your back. :)
I missed that the first go around. Glad you didn't whack your back in the snow. Luckily there either isn't enough snow around here to shovel or so much that we don't have to go anywhere and thus don't have to shovel.
I've pulled a few cookbooks out of my collection and am going to brainstorm for a Thai dinner we're making on Saturday. Mmm...Thai!
That sounds yummy. But I don't think that will be high on my list of foods on Saturday. It seems like dinner after a race is typically fish and/or Japanese. My kind of comfort food. :D

Forgot to add yesterday - LW had a bad day. It seems that she had a little altercation climbing down off a step-ladder with a bunch of Noritake (that we picked up in Japan) that she was putting in our new china hutch. A little tweak that looks like it has gotten better but it's still only the first day after the tumble (she wasn't obviously hurt - just a little shook up and maybe a little torque of her upper back). We'll have to see how she feels tomorrow. Speaking of tomorrow - I've been offered a day off by my coach - considering I'm running 26 on Saturday. He mentioned that I might want to take tomorrow off (even though it is only 5 easy miles). I'm toying with the thought but I'll wait until tomorrow to make my final decision.

Anyway, happy trails and hope winter goes away again soon.
Peace,
Les

[seathyme]

Sorry about LW's incident with the Noritake, Les. Hope there are no lasting consequences... And we shall see if you can stand the day off -- any bets, runners?

Wow Natasha, that's quite a few days without a break -- you must be making up for lost time!;) I hope you're feeling good today.

Kristi any news on the house?

How's everyone else?

I did my speedwork this morning, which always makes me feel like a survivor.:p Does the 6 mile total qualifies for ITPW status? Person on the treadmill next to mine was chatty, which was friendly and all, but as I started getting into the intervals it was harder and harder to respond! Hope she understood my increasingly red face and determined silence...

Have a good day everyone.:)

[Valerie226]

Arrgh!! My treadmill died. We know what's wrong with it, a drive belt has slipped, but it will take several days to get it replaced. I suppose I could go run outside, but I've really gotten out of the habit & prefer inside, especially early spring because the tree pollen is really coming on strong right now. Recalling last weeks allergy discussion, this was another thing I did to reduce allergy symptoms. buy a treadmill & run indoors. some times of the year are ok but my allergies peak late march, april & may. So I am stuck on the bike and elliptical until we replace the belt.

[Leslie Ferguson]

Originally posted by seathyme
Sorry about LW's incident with the Noritake, Les. Hope there are no lasting consequences... And we shall see if you can stand the day off -- any bets, runners?
I'm well on my way to no running today. I will probably go to the gym and soak in the sauna/steam room (I think that would be great :D ) and stretch. Of course, to properly stretch I may walk about a mile (at an easy pace). So would I be in the spirit of no running if I walked? I'd say so but...
I did my speedwork this morning, which always makes me feel like a survivor.:p Does the 6 mile total qualifies for ITPW status? Person on the treadmill next to mine was chatty, which was friendly and all, but as I started getting into the intervals it was harder and harder to respond! Hope she understood my increasingly red face and determined silence...

Have a good day everyone.:)
I'd say you're well on your way. ;)

Valerie - Sorry about your treadmill. But it sounds like you've got lots of other choices to occupy yourself for cardio. BTW - how is the weather behaving in Arlington? This time of year (if my memory serves me well) north of Seattle can be dicey at best. Cold and damp quite often.

Check back later,
Les

[Valerie226]

Yes, Les, it's cool and wet here. 45-ish and raining. But that doesn't stop the trees from spewing pollen. the rain knocks it down but it doesn't stay down for long. It's no big deal unless I really suck up a lot of it.

I was hoping for 4 miles today in my efforts to join the ranks of all of you long distance runners, but it will need to wait until we get the new belt installed. We did it ourselves last time but it was a short term fix.

[Lynno1975]

I ran 3.8 miles on Sunday in 39:53. Yesterday was my Shamrock Run. It was a 4-miler downtown. I wanted to bail sooooo bad because it was snowing, but after this weekend I wanted something good to happen (Note: My purse was stolen out of my car, driver window was busted out and I had a 26 degree ride home that night. They got my driver's licnese, a credit card, 4 store cards, my checkbook and 2 ATM/debit cards. My social security card wasn't in there, but my health insurance ID number is my SSN, so beware if you think they don't get it without it being on your checks or driver's license as was the case with me. Then on Monday the ignition switch went out on my truck and you can't rent a car without a DRIVER'S LICENSE, so I'm borrowing. Forunately nothing had any activity when I called almost immediately to cancel everything and I had no cash in it. Enough about that though). I went and I did 4 miles in 39:58, and my first mile was 9:27. I've NEVER done 9:27 before on solid ground EVER! There's something to be said for all this treadmill training (playing with speed and incline) and then all my therapy, which I will start doing again (I just got so TIRED of it all! AAGGHH!). I didn't even sleep that well the night before. I had a beer (a free Killion's coupon was on the bottom of the bib number) and a banana and then I went to my favorite bar for St. Patty's Day. The worst part was taking a shower in the locker room with NO HOT WATER! It was just painful. I plan to try to get in 4 or 5 miles sometime between work and dropping my car off (had to wait for me to not only have the time, but for the weather to be good- I can't see through a trash bag to drive down the interstate to drop my car off) and then 4-6 on Saturday while it's nice before the next cold front comes through. I won't get to New Orleans for my vacation soon enough!

Hope everyone is doing well. I've only been able to skim this week rather than sit down and read like I ususally do. I've been fairly busy at work during the day and then I've had 3 evenings to work (although I missed Monday when the truck died, but I was tied up then with other things) and then celebrating yesterday. That morning wiped me out. I was in bed by 9. Where is SPRING?!!?

Lynn :-)

[seathyme]

Oy Lynn, what an ordeal.:mad: Purse and car -- both so central to our existence. Grr. But, awesome comeback with the personal best! Great job!! May there be many more good runs ahead, for general sanity, health and not to give the thieves the upper hand. You go girl.:D

[MaryH]

Originally posted by Lynno1975
Where is SPRING?!!?

It's over here!!!!! We're in the mid 80s during the day. Now that's great and all but I'm dreading what May will be if this keeps up because it means we'll be hitting triple digits before June.

We have cousins who are retiring here from New York. They are here this week and the wife keeps saying how hot it is. We keep telling her "this ISN'T hot!!!!" (But, yes it does beat 7" of snow any day.)

Blew off yesterday, but got in my gym workout and about 3.5 this morning. I had a runner's thought of the day this morning while running that was something along the lines of: "keep the weight up" (the mind just gradually declines over the rest of the day). What I remember thinking was that if I started paying attention to my stride, I seemed to get heavier and slower and if I mentally told myself to keep the weight up (i.e. lift the chest and imagine that all your weight is in your upper body) my legs turned over much easier. (OK, OK, it WAS early morning and my mind rambles in all sorts of directions :D :cool: especially when I'm running by myself.)

Natasha, Lynn, and anyone else I forgot, good work on getting those workouts in and the PRs.

[Leslie Ferguson]

Lynn - Boy that sucks - stole your purse and broke the window on your car. Congrats on the good race - I hope that keeps bring you back. :D
Mary H - Sounds like a good workout for you - weights and 3.5 miles. How did your trip to San Diego and running work out this past weekend?

So far so good. I'm still "un-running" today and based on the time (4:30) I'll probably not run. Way too close to start time (0730 Saturday) to be running. It is 26.21 miles and all. Plus I'm really tired this afternoon. Caught myself sending my mind on vacation to Hawaii for a while (it was quite pleasant there too :D ).

Gotta go so I can knock off soon.

Happy (tired) trails,
Les

[Kristilyn1]

Lynn-

since they got your ss# and your license--if you haven't already---make sure you contact the credit bureaus and have them put something on yours that doesn't allow anyone to open new credit without verifying it first. That's a common trick for thieves to not use the cc's in the wallet, just open instant credit on a new one! That stinks that that happened to you! Congrats on the race though and good for you not bailing!

The house: they initially refused our offer, now they came back and we are wrangling about the price. The bad news is we may have to stay with my parents for a few weeks until we can close--can you say C-L-O-S-E? Oh well!

4 miles on the treadmill this am--I'd be dead in the water if something happened to ours, in fact I'm going to have to take it to my parents as I can't live a few weeks without my treadmill <gasp>.

Kristi

[SusanMac]

whew! So much to catch up on this week. I don't have the time (or memory) to respond to everyone, but here's what is in my head (he, he...this should be short!)

Mary - we can tell you live in SoCal by the way you define Spring as "80 degrees." :-) That's summer! Spring is lots of rain, mushy snow showers, followed by green fresh grass and working in the garden. Only problem is, the grass & garden parts aren't here yet.

Laura - Oh you should definitely hike PP! I'm excited for you! DH & I did it once, camping overnight at Barr. Then we did up & down in 1 day as a "going away" adventure before moving out of the Springs. Since we were runners it didn't occur to us to do additional training, but that was really, really hard. I'm glad you're preparing. Definitely bring a flashlight (little lesson learned there). Once year I volunteered to work the PP 1/2 thon, which I also recommend to you. It's hard getting up that early, but worth watching the sunrise from the top, as well as cheering on all the runners coming through the finish line.

Trip Report - I got into Baltimore Sun around Noon and saw from my cab that a St Patty's Day 5K was about to start right downtown near my hotel!! I wanted to go join them so badly! But, there just wasn't time to get down there, register, etc :-( Wish I had known that before booking my flight. It turns out that I didn't run at all on my trip. Mostly because I stayed out waaaaaay too late each night, but I did know in the back of my head that it would be good to rest my groin muscle. The good news is that I went for a swim today and it didn't hurt at all! Last week I swam thinking that the non-impact sport would be good, but it still hurt. So, hopefully those few days off was good enough. Short easy run planned tomorrow, and long group run on Sat.

Headphones - I go back & forth on headphones. If I'm training for a specific race, I try to train myself to not use headphones as that's what I'd prefer in the race itself. I do believe that not having music helps you focus more on running. But at the same time, people talk about the million things they have to do or think about to prevent from being bored on a run. I figure either way you're trying to distract yourself, right?

[Natasha]

Hi everyone!

Mary, that's great that you got in your gym workout and such a good run. :) Enjoy the lovely weather (though it does sound kinda hot to me, but then I'm a Northern gal :p).

Les, smart choice to "un-run" today, and you can do so guilt-free since even your coach recommended it! That's too bad that your wife had a bad day. I hope today was better!

Susan, welcome back from Baltimore and glad to hear that the groin wasn't bothering you during the swim. I keep meaning to ask you. How's your husband's Ironman training going?

Lynn, wow, you have had some week! I'm so sorry to hear about the purse but big congrats on the PB!!! :) :)

Valerie, good luck getting the 'mill fixed SOON!!!

Seathyme, sure sounds like you had a good speed workout, and yeah, I think 6 miles is enough for the posse, but you'll have to see what Kristi, our queen of the posse, says. ;) :p

Speaking of Kristi, fingers are still crossed here for the house!

Today I did 50 minutes of spinning and abs. Not bad...beats curling up on the couch, which did cross my mind for an evil split second before I decided to spin instead. In other news, last week I happened to mention my recent half marathon to one of my colleagues who runs casually (We occasionally compare running/biking notes.) He told me today that since our conversation, he's decided to seriously consider making a half marathon a fitness goal for himself later in the year. Yay! I have no doubt that he can finish strong and have fun doing it. :)

Natasha

[Leslie Ferguson]

Natasha - LW had a better day today and no lasting effects from the mild tumble the other day. I didn't mention that she didn't break and china either. What an amazing thing. Of course, now that her upper back is better she had a monthly visit today so trade upper back issues for lower back issues. There's no winning these days for her. And I didn' treally feel any remorse or guilt not running today. I really needed the break.
Susan - Welcome back from Baltimore. Sorry that you missed the run on St Patty's day but probably better in the long run. Ditto on your DH training. Hope it is going well.
Kristi - Positive vibes for an accepted counter offer and a quick and painless closing. I think things will shape up just smashingly.

BTW - It didn't take too much arm twisting to rest today. Besides sending my brain on vacation to Hawaii I spent about 20 minutes in the steam room - sweating up a storm and feeling refreshed and rejuvenated afterwards.

Doe this ever happen to you when you're really physically tired and run down? I had a funny craving this evening that I had to asuage but not the "typical" sweet starchy craving, what I really craved "chicken strips" (textured soy protein) and green beans with spices and hot sauce. Go figure, I just can't explain it.

Need to head to bed - I think I'm probably going to get less sleep tomorrow than normal. My coach has officially put me on the block (with my permission) to pace a group of 4 hour runners. Now I certainly can't go too fast and I have to figure out how to run that pace. And now it looks like more folks may be counting on me to help them get to the finish on time.

Until tomorrow (and a new thread having put this one into its 3rd page again).

Happy resting trails,
Les

[Natasha]

Wow, it's quiet here today!

I got in a 5-miler this afternoon. It's a beautiful afternoon out there, bright and sunny and warm. I wasn't particularly energetic (didn't eat enough earlier in the day--DUMB! I know better than that by now. :rolleyes: ), but had a good time, and refueled later with a steak'n' veggie stir fry and two oranges. Can you believe, my husband and I have eaten our way through practically a whole box of 24 oranges in 6 days, in addition to the rest of our fruits/veggies. I love oranges when training - will have to try to buy more this weekend.

Les, oh yeah -- I have strange cravings when I'm tired/run down, and they're not always "evil" things. Sometimes I find myself craving things like a heaping serving of garlic broccoli. :) Oh, and I'm glad to hear that your wife had no lasting painful effects, and that the china didn't either!

About the pacing, that's cool that you're going to be able to help out the runners achieve their 4-hour goal. Are you going to be the race's official 4-hour pace bunny, or will there be another one? And if you are the official pace bunny, will you be wearing the ears and all? :D I always smile when I see pace bunnies with their ears or whatever other paraphernalia they don to stand out. :) They do all runners a great service and I appreciate it.

Who's going to start the new thread? I'd still rather not... :rolleyes: :p

Natasha

[Natasha]

P.S. To anyone with speed laces (Les, you bought some recently, right?),

What kind do you have? Non-elastic or bungee? Are they good? I know there was some talk about them recently but didn't pay much attention, but now I want to pick up some. I'm thinking I'll get non-elastic but am interested in hearing anything about anyone's speed laces generally. Thanks! :)