Introducing a New Discussion Forum for Runners

[Natasha]

Okay, here it is - a thread where runners and people interested in running (or starting to run) can talk about anything related to RUNNING!! I don t want this to be intimidating to anyone; this thread is not intended only for people who already run or race. Anyone interested in running to any extent whatsoever is more than welcome!

I won t ramble at this point (hard as THAT may be to believe, knowing me) - suffice it to say that I love running and that it s a very important part of my life.

Look forward to hearing from you! Happy trails http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Natasha


[This message has been edited by Natasha (edited 11-10-2000).]

[Laura]

I very excited about this thread. My runnning career is so sporadic. I don't believe I am a natural runner. I have never run more than a 9 minute mile for any extended period of time and it seems like it takes awhile to build up my endurance.

I am currently running 3 miles comfortably at a 10 minute mile pace. For those of you who are runners, should I build up my endurance 1st (I would like to run 4 miles 3x a week and be able to do a longer run (6-8) miles on the weekend) and then work on speed or vice versa or a combination of the two)

I also am interested in what you serious runners suggest for running gear (not shoes) during colder weather. specifically I am interested in what type of wind breakers you use.

Sorry for so many questions. I really do love the way I feel after a run even though I am often dying during it!

[This message has been edited by Laura (edited 11-11-2000).]

[Pat58]

I sure don't qualify as a "runner" but a few weeks ago I started adding jogs and sprints to my treadmill workouts. It's starting to feel a little more natural to me. Anyone run on a treadmill? I'd like to hear your tips and feedback on what speed you use, routines, type of shoes, etc.

[Natasha]

Laura,

I m glad you responded!

I am currently running 3 miles comfortably at a 10 minute mile pace. For those of you who are runners, should I build up my endurance 1st (I would like to run 4 miles 3x a week and be able to do a longer run (6-8) miles on the weekend) and then work on speed or vice versa or a combination of the two)

I would definitely build up endurance first. My first coach used to say that you can look at training like building a house. I have also heard many others use this kind of approach in their training and coaching. You first have a base period where you concentrate on building up endurance and get your cardiovascular system working efficiently. This is like the foundation of a house. Then you start adding a bit of strength training, in the form of hill training (once a week or so), while still adding slowly to your base. This is analogous to putting up the walls of the house. Once you have done that for at least several weeks, you can start with a bit of speedwork (once a week or less, starting with very little and moving up). Speedwork is like building the roof of the house. In other words, you can t build walls or a roof unless you already have a foundation. If you start speedwork without having a solid foundation, it is very easy to get injured and/or burned out. I learned that the hard way! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/frown.gif Ouch! Ahem - I guess you can see that I didn t always listen to my coach. Silly girl!

I also am interested in what you serious runners suggest for running gear (not shoes) during colder weather. specifically I am interested in what type of wind breakers you use.

I have a terrific windbreaker that I picked up at my local running store. It is long in back and short in front and has zippers all the way down the sleeves and down the sides so you can open it up when you start warming up. It is a bright color and has reflective strips, which are essential in winter since it s dark so much of the time! I also have a couple of other running jackets, but this is my favorite. Just seeing it can make me want to go for a run. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Sorry for so many questions. I really do love the way I feel after a run even though I am often dying during it!

Please don t be sorry! That s what this thread is all about - learning from each other and keeping each other motivated and having fun! Keep us posted. Are you still thinking triathlon?


[This message has been edited by Natasha (edited 11-12-2000).]

[Natasha]

Originally posted by Pat58:
I sure don't qualify as a "runner" but a few weeks ago I started adding jogs and sprints to my treadmill workouts. It's starting to feel a little more natural to me. Anyone run on a treadmill? I'd like to hear your tips and feedback on what speed you use, routines, type of shoes, etc.

Pat,
Good stuff! And yes, you DO qualify as a runner http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif What inspired you to start, by the way? I think getting started is the hardest thing of all.
Yes, I run on a treadmill when I don t feel like facing the elements or want to see my buddies at the gym. Also, because it is such a controlled setting, it allows me to really concentrate on running, and to pay attention to form and breathing.
As for speed, it depends. Sometimes my treadmill runs are slow and easy, and other times I will crank up the speed. Because the surface is level - unless I use the incline feature, of course - and because there are no externalities (hills, wind in my face, etc.) I can concentrate on getting my legs moving as quickly as possible (well, within limits). Then I can take what I ve learned outdoors when I m ready for it.
As for routines, another thing I like to use the treadmill for is interval training. For example, I might run at a nice and easy pace for a few minutes, then go at a much quicker pace for 2-3 minutes, then back down for another few minutes, and so on. This is an effective but very demanding form of speedwork. You can also interval train by alternating brisk walking with jogging/running, which sounds like what you re doing now.
You can also vary your routine by adding hills every so often, with the incline feature.
I use the same type of shoes that I use for outdoor running - I have a couple pairs. I have heard that treadmill running doesn t wear down your shoes as fast as outdoor running, which seems to make sense.

Good luck, Pat!! Let us know how it goes.


[This message has been edited by Natasha (edited 11-11-2000).]

[Laura]

Natasha

I am sure I will do a triathlon this summer. If nothing else I will go back to Jackson to do the one there. My goal was to be able to do an olympic distance triathlon before I turn 40 (2 years) but everyone who does those are so serious. I wish the Danskin triathlon was a longer distance. I am easily intimidated by others. I really think I would like to try and run a 1/2 marathon first and am looking to the Spring/summer to do one.
Many ambitions I know. I am hoping that this group will keep me motivated. BTW, what brand is your windbreaker that you love?

[emilycat]

Well,
I had so much advice to give, but gosh, Natasha, I think you covered about every bit of training advice I had! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif

Um, sorry I can't give very good windbreaker suggestions...I live in Atlanta. Even in N.C. it didn't get that cold; the coldest temp I usually ran in was around 20 degrees. I would typically wear a synthetic mid-weight long-underwear shirt (I like my ones from Patagonia) and microfleeces on top. (And earmuffs and gloves and leggings because 20 degrees is still cold)

Laura, when you do get ready for speed workouts, there are plenty of types you can do other than intervals (which are either a blast or a pain in the butt, depending on what kind of mood you're in), so I'd be glad to describe some workouts for you.

And, once again http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif , I must agree with Natasha on treadmill as a great place to do speedwork. It's a great way (and fun, too) to crank up the speed at intervals because you can easily regulate how fast you're going.

Last but not least, I have to share my great news: I qualified for Boston today! I ran 3:25:26 in the Chickamauga Battlefield Marathon. Needless to say, I'm very excited and know which race I'll be running in April. By the way, do any veteran marathoners have any advice for running marathons close together? I have another one scheduled for Dec. 3 (not sure how sound that decision was http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/rolleyes.gif ) and I'm not sure how to balance it out. I got some feedback from a Runner's World editor, but I trust ya'll's (gosh that sounds southern) advice, and wondered what you thought. Anyway, this was very long winded, my apologies. I'm really glad this thread got started!



[This message has been edited by emilycat (edited 11-11-2000).]

[Natasha]

Laura,
Good luck with your triathlon(s) and half marathon! How long is the Danskin triathlon, anyway?
My windbreaker is 100% nylon - micro supplex - and made in USA. I think that it is Columbia brand (?), but will let you know for sure. I hope to go to the running store very soon, so I can check and make sure while I m there. And I ll try to resist the urge to pick up another jacket in another color (I think they come in 7-8 colors.)!

And Emily,
Congratulations again! You not only qualified for Boston, but did it by a country mile!
Interval training a pain?! Never! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

As soon as I wake up a little I m going for my long run, which in actual fact has not been very long lately http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif . It looks like ideal weather for a good run!


[This message has been edited by Natasha (edited 11-12-2000).]

[Laura]

Emily that is awesome that you qualified for Boston. Way to go!

Natasha - I think the Danskin is similar to the triathlon I did before. 1/2 mile swim, 12 mile bike and 5k run. They are great distances. Actually I think the one I did was a 1/4 mile swim, 9 mile bike and 5 k. It is a nice friendly distance. I finished in 1:11 so it wasn't too difficult.

[Kerri]

I'm a runner! I want to play too! I started running my first year in college, about 7 years ago. I had been pretty active all though high school, but when I went to college I just stopped. Well, there was a nice morning in the spring semester and I just up and decided I was going to run a mile no matter how long it took me. I have been running ever since.

I run about 3 miles a couple of times of week. I also play soccer and it is hard to do both so I haven't been able to add mileage like I wanted. My goal is to run a marathon in a year. You long distance runners, how do you figure out where you are going to run for 10-15 miles? DO you just run for a certain amount of time or figure out mileage before hand? Do you bring water along with you on your run? What time of day does everyone run? I usually do morning on the weekends and evenings (after dark, terrible, I know!) on weekdays.

Perhaps my biggest problem with running is kind of embarassing so bear with me. After about 2 miles, I really really really have to go to the bathroom. Usually, this is why I end up stopping. I have seen this problem address in only 1 running book and not very well. Does anyone else have this problem or is it just me? I have tried playing with my diet and the time I run, but it didn't really help. I guess I will just have to make sure there is a bathroom along my route.

Ok, I think I rambled on quite a bit so if you can answer at least one of my questions, we are doing good!

I bought a windbreaker for $10 at gear.com. I am going to scotch guard it so it is waterproof one of these days.

[emilycat]

Kerri,
I, too, started running my first year of college...I had been a dancer before, and that took up almost every day of the week, so I started running. I got hooked right away; the farther and faster I ran, the more I wanted to run, and once I started running races, I just wanted to set more and more goals for myself; there are so many kinds of races out there, in terms of distance and terrain, that there's always something new! Right now, it's a marathon in every state...48 to go...oh,well, I'm young... http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/tongue.gif

Anyway, as you can see, I prefer to ramble before I decide to answer questions. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif
For training runs, I know what my average pace is, so I just run for the amount of time it would take me to do a certain distance. For example, I run about an 8:15 pace on normal days, so an hour is about 7 miles. When I'm doing long runs, I go out and clock the distance, or in most cases, I do my long runs at the Chattahoochee, where there's a 3-mile loop and a 5-mile out and back drive, so I just run around there for a while.
Once you know what your average pace is, (except for speedwork), it's sometimes easier to go for time rather than distance. The last four years, I ran for distance, because I knew Chapel Hill like the back of my hand. In the neighborhood I run in now, though, it's just easier to watch the clock.
Sorry, this may have been more info than you wanted; I tend to be able to go on for hours about running! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[Natasha]

Originally posted by Kerri:
I'm a runner! I want to play too!

All right! Welcome to our humble group! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

My goal is to run a marathon in a year.

Good to hear it! Any specific race in mind?

You long distance runners, how do you figure out where you are going to run for 10-15 miles? DO you just run for a certain amount of time or figure out mileage before hand? Do you bring water along with you on your run?

For long runs, I figure out where I'm going to run ahead of time, or let others figure it out for me because I often do my long runs with a group. For shorter runs, I sometimes run based on how much time I have, though I have a rough idea of how long particular routes are. I like to know approximately how far I go.

What time of day does everyone run? I usually do morning on the weekends and evenings (after dark, terrible, I know!) on weekdays.

I'm all over the map on this one. My best runs are usually early evening or late morning, but I run at all times of day. It depends on the rest of my schedule for the day, the length of the run, the weather, and so on.

Perhaps my biggest problem with running is kind of embarassing so bear with me. After about 2 miles, I really really really have to go to the bathroom. Usually, this is why I end up stopping. I have seen this problem address in only 1 running book and not very well. Does anyone else have this problem or is it just me? I have tried playing with my diet and the time I run, but it didn't really help. I guess I will just have to make sure there is a bathroom along my route.

I have heard of others with this problem, but can't think of anything useful to tell you right now. I'm sure someone else here will, though, and I will let you know what I find.

Keep on running and stay in touch!

[Gina O]

Glad this thread got going! As a very new runner, I am interested in every aspect of it. First, I want to make my intentions clear so that I have my goals out in public!!! I started running because I watched my sister, at 41, finish the Chicago Marathon last month. It was her first marathon, and she trained for it in 6 months(to make it even more amazing she is somewhat recently widowed with 3 kids). It was great motivation for me to get started, and she is very encouraging. My goal is the Marine Marathon in DC in October if we can get in, if not, Chicago. So, here I am, not even running for 30 minutes straight yet, with a pretty lofty goal. I have a great training plan, and am sticking to it religiously so far.

Shoes- My sister gave my great advise for shoes... find a store that specializes in running shoes and makes you run in them before selling them to you. Everyone has different feet and styles of running and it is very important to get shoes that match those factors. Before doing this she had problems with her hips. Once she got the right shoes, the problems went away.

Outdoor gear/jackets- Still learning in this area (but necessary as I am in Missouri). I bought a terrific Asics windbreaker and a long sleeved shirt to go underneath. I have had it out in the rain once... not totally waterproof, but close enough for me. I have had it out in 30 degree weather several times and combined with the Ascis shirt, it works great. I have been totally comfortable in the wind, and cold.

Emily- Major congratulations on qualifying for Boston!!!!! I am totally proud of you! What a great accomplishment! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Time of day- During the week, I usually run during lunch (I work out of my home) and on weekends I run first thing in the morning. I ran once in the dark and got scared very quickly. I live in a rural area and there was no one around except me and a guy in a truck. If I ever run in the dark again, I plan to take pepper spray with me. Runner's World's "Complete Book of Running" is a great resource, and also talks a lot about safety. It says many of the reports of sexual assaults on female runners occur at 6:00 pm. So... to everyone out there, be careful!

[emilycat]

Gina,
First of all, congratulations on starting a running program! You'll love it so much (if you don't already http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif ). Running is so great for your mind, body and soul, and the goals just keep you going, and going (like the Energizer bunny...okay, bad joke http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/tongue.gif ).
Thanks for your compliments on Boston...I'm very exicted and happy about it, too.
I wouldn't call your goal to run a marathon next October too lofty...that's a long way off, and you can accomplish a great deal in 11 months. One way to get ready, though, over that time, is to race longer and longer distances. Work up from a 5k, to a 10k, to a 10 miler, to a half-marathon, and so-forth. It's a little difficult (and a big shame, too) that there aren't that many "in-between" distance races out there, that is, between the half-marathon and the marathon. I love having 25, 30ks and 20 milers to do, but there just aren't that many races of those distances. If you find one in your area, though, while you're training, jump at the chance...racing is great practice!

Also, I can't say enough about Runner's World..(they should use me as a spokesperson http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif ) I never ran in highschool, and truthfully, most of the things I know about running, which is a significant amount, I like to think, I learned from that magazine. And of course, my own experience, which is invaluable. If you haven't flipped through a couple issues already, I would definitely recommend it...it's such a wonderful publication.
Anyway, sorry to ramble...enjoy your running!
Em

[Star]

Yeah hoo runners!! I'm a runner too...currently deciding if I should go for a run in this icky rain! Or if I should bake a cake!! I too LOVE Runners World, it's my Bible! I love Nike Structure Triax and am starting to use New Balance. Running is so wonderful, so relaxing, now I must go! Are we going to have our own board, or just work from this one? P.S. For training, GU is really tasty! P.S.S. I'm from Mass...so I'll see you at Boston!

[Natasha]

Gina and Star,

Welcome aboard! And Gina, thanks for your suggestion. It was thanks to you (and Emily) that this thread got going!

Hey everyone, if a Virtual Supper Club works (and indeed it does work well - fun stuff so far!!), why not a Virtual Group Run? We'll pick a time that works for everyone, go for our runs, and imagine everyone else doing their run at the same time http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif Yes, I AM kidding...I think!! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/tongue.gif


[This message has been edited by Natasha (edited 11-14-2000).]

[emilycat]

Star,
Are you running Boston? I'm so excited; I've heard it's such a spectacle.

[LIsaP]

I am rather new to running-I started in the spring. After years of walking, I needed a boost-my body had gotten used to walking and needed a kick.
I usually run about 3-4 miles 3-4 times a week. I am not a natural runner and that is about all I care to do. I enjoy it when I am done, and it is helping with toning.

Kerri-I too have the same stomach problem after about 2 miles as well! I have heard this referred to as runners stomach. It is quite annoying and so far I have not found a solution.

I am running in my first 5k on Thanksgiving! I figure that will be a nice way to kick off the day!

[emilycat]

Kerri and Lisa,
Are you guys referring to runner's trots?
Yeah, that is kind of an icky topic; I've experienced this a few times, but usually when I'm on my period, or towards the end of a long run. If you'd like more info on it, or how to try to solve the problem, you can do a search on www.runnersworld.com (http://www.runnersworld.com) and several articles will come up. Hope this helps!

[Gina O]

Em- Thanks for the encouragement. I have been looking into races to sign up for, the first is over Thanksgiving (2 miles). I am looking for a 5K to do around the 1st of the year, but having trouble finding one. In Feb. I want to do a 10K in Kansas City that is run completely underground in a serious of caves that were used during prohibition. It is supposed to be a really neat race. After that, maybe a 1/2 marathon sometime over the summer. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

I bought my first issue of Runner's World and read it cover to cover last night. I had a little trouble finding it, so will probably just get a subscription.

I mentioned safety in my first post on this thread... does anyone else worry about that, or am I being overly paranoid (that would not be uncommon)? Gina

[emilycat]

Gina,
I completely agree with you on the safety issue. I scold anyone I know for running at night by themselves; it's essentially inviting something bad to happen. Last year, when I was still in school, there was an unusually large amount of sexual assaults on and around campus...and that's Chapel Hill! Every time I saw girls running by themselves at night, I couldn't believe how irresponsible they were being to themselves.
It really is, unfortunately, a serious issue, and if you do insist on running at night, seriously consider finding a running buddy to go with you, and/or buy some pepper spray. Maybe nothing will ever happen, but if it does, you'll be glad you were prepared.
Take care, everyone!

[SusieO]

Hi!
I'm new here, but wanted to jump in.
I've recently gotten serious about running, after jogging unseriously off and on for about 10 years. I want to train for a marathon, possibly in December 2001. I run 3 times a week, 4-5 miles two times, and a long run on the weekend. I'm up to eight miles on long runs.
I'm running my first 10K on Thursday. My goal is to finish in less than an hour, but really I just want to finish.

[Natasha]

Susie,

Welcome!

Lisa, Gina and Susie - looks like you all have races coming up very soon. Good luck to everyone and please let us know what happens. Gina, what a wonderful story about your sister. Hearty congratulations to her! I have met and seen so many inspirational people through running; their stories just blow me away.

About running at night or in less-busy times: yes, I worry too though it makes me so mad to have to worry. Sometimes I would have preferred to run on my own but can t, or have to cancel a run, because of the safety issue. Grrr...but what can you do?

Star - What kind of NB shoes are you using now? BTW, I think for now we will probably just use this board.

Everyone, keep running and smiling! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif Talk to you all soon. I am contemplating heading out for a series of hill repeats - and am looking forward to it big time!!

[Natasha]

Just a spot of venting - bear with me: http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Anyone else sick of almost getting hit by cars (or maybe getting hit by them)? http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/mad.gif I do some of my running in a suburban and urban environment and last Sunday almost got hit twice - in 20 minutes. I was just getting over stewing over the first one when the second one happened. Oh, the trials and tribulations ... I don't know why it is so hard to look both ways before you pull out of a driveway or make a turn. I always make sure to look at the driver's face and to try to make eye contact so they know I'm there - but sometimes I swear they've looked in my direction and seen me, but then they almost hit me and look stunned!! Another advantage to group runs, I guess...

Anyone else had this joyful experience?

[This message has been edited by Natasha (edited 11-16-2000).]

[BernK]

I started running over the summer to train for a triathlon, which I finished last Sunday. Yea. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif I notice when I am finished running that my face is very red, does anyone have this problem and how can I prevent it? I am running about 3 miles 3-4 times a week. It still takes a bit of effort which may be the problem, but it looks really bad for about 45mins. I am not particularly fair, I tan easily and have dark brown hair. Any suggestions out there?

[Natasha]

Originally posted by Laura:
Natasha
BTW, what brand is your windbreaker that you love?

Hi Laura,

I still don t know the brand of windbreaker (I should never have thrown away that label!) but it seems that you can get something like it by ordering on-line or by phone. Don t know if you want to go to that much trouble for a jacket - I doubt it - but if you are interested let me know and I can send you the details. Hope your running is going well.

Cheers!



[This message has been edited by Natasha (edited 11-16-2000).]

[Star]

Hello my lovely runners! Sorry it's taken so long for me to reply, I'm in college and the work load has been unreal lately! Anyways, Emilycat, I am not running Boston this year, haven't trained, but I will definitely be cheering! For New Balance, I suggest the higher numbers, Runner's World just did a review on a pair in the 900's..I am going to try those or the new Nike Air Structure Triax. Like I said before, I really like these. The souls form into your feet, not flat like some other types. I also have narrow feet, so am very picky about my shoes. Ok. Hope all is well with you all...let me know on any new shoes, or running info any of you have! P.S. I live in Mass, anyone near there? Keep running...p.s. my email name is Joyfeet...wonder why?!

[slknight]

I've been reading these posts, although I am not much of a runner. I was a competitive swimmer in college, and still swim Masters. I've actually SWUM a 10 K race, but have never run one. I tried a triathlon a few years ago, but to me the swimming portion is much too short compared to the other parts. But I wanted to respond because, Star, I saw from your profile that you live in Topsfield. I live in Hamilton - the next town over! Did you know that there is a New Balance outlet in Lowell? They have a good selection.

-Susan

[Natasha]

Originally posted by BernK:
[B]I started running over the summer to train for a triathlon, which I finished last Sunday. Yea. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif [B]

Bern,

Congratulations!!! So how did the triathlon go? Was it as fun as you'd hoped? Will you be doing another one?

Natasha (the Question Girl) http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif

[ChristineK]

Hello! I am new here to this forum and also to running.

I have been running for the past couple of months and I absolutely love it! I also thank you for posting this forum. I am hoping that it will give me the motivation I need on those days when I really do not feel like going out there!

I do have a question for you all. I have noticed that when I run, I often get a sensation in my knees...it feel like they need to "pop" but they never do. Does that sound familiar to anyone? My knees also seem to creek whenever I am going up stairs. I don't know if anyone else has experienced this, but I would interested to know if anyone had any ideas or suggestions as to what I should do. Giving up running is definitely not an option! I just love it the way it makes me feel!

Thanks again for starting this!

[Natasha]

Christine,
Welcome and congratulations for starting running. I m glad you enjoy it too. I couldn t agree more with what Emily said. When you first start running your muscles aren t necessarily used to being moved and worked in the way that running moves and works them. I know that sentence is not very coherent; it s been a long week. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif Once you ve been running for a while, your muscles get more familiarized with what running involves. So strengthening exercises are a great idea! Of course, I still get lazy about them, but have to get better about it.

There was a quick and handy guide to various strengthening exercises in the Feb. 2000 issue of Runners World. If you can possibly find an old copy at your library or a used bookstore, I would recommend picking it up. I believe that the article with the exercises was designed primarily for people who already have injuries, but they re also worth doing as a preventive measure. If you can t find the magazine and are interested, I can mail or fax you the few pages with the exercises. Otherwise, you can find good moves in any issue of Runners World or in reliable books and websites.

Keep in touch! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[This message has been edited by Natasha (edited 11-17-2000).]

[emilycat]

ChristineK,
Welcome to the board, and to this topic! So glad you started running...isn't it great?

I've had some knee problems before (iliotibial band syndrome) but nothing like what you've described. It could just be that the muscles around your knees aren't strong enough, and you should do some strength training for your quads and hamstrings (which every runner should do anyway). If I were you, I would e-mail Runner's World for advice. They're fairly prompt with feedback and are typically offer very well-informed advice. Just send the same description you posted here, and send it to rwedit@rodale.com Hope you find some answers!
Emily

[This message has been edited by emilycat (edited 11-17-2000).]

[Gina O]

ChristineK-I agree with everything others have said and have one more suggestion. Make absolutely sure you have the correct shoes for your running style and foot shape. I have read a bunch of articles on this and talked to several runners and they all agree. Go to a store that will not sell you shoes unless they watch you run in them first (and take your old shoes it, the wear will show them lots). It may make a big difference. Gina

[BernK]

Originally posted by Natasha:
Bern,

Congratulations!!! So how did the triathlon go? Was it as fun as you'd hoped? Will you be doing another one?

Natasha (the Question Girl) http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif


Natasha, it went a lot better than I was expecting. It was just a small field, 28 people, but that suited me just fine.The swim was fine, the bike was great I picked up several places unfortunatly I lost them all on the run. I couldn't run the 5k I had to walk some of it. Oh well better luck next time. I know now what I need to improve on particulary the running and speed in my swim. It was an 800m swim, 20k bike and 5k run. I finished in 1hr 49 mins. I would definitly do another one. There are a couple more coming up in April & May so I have something to aim for. I find they are great motivation to keep exercising. We are moving back to the states next summer so i am looking forward to a summer of races. I would highly recommend a triathlon to anyone looking to get in shape or just looking for a new challange.

[Natasha]

Bern,
Thanks for the response. Sounds like a good race!
Triathlons are gaining popularity at an astonishing rate, aren t they? I know quite a few people who have started off with a very small tri (shorter distances than you or Laura did) and have ended up getting hooked - going on to half Ironmans or even Ironmans. I myself would like to try a triathlon someday; it looks like fun and makes so much sense from a training standpoint because the cross-training reduces your chance of injury. Maybe next year! So many plans, so little time ...

[ChristineK]

Thank you all for your messages & suggestions! I was trying to think back to when I bought my last pair of shoes and I think it has been a while. Do you have any suggestions as to brands or just go with whatever feels best.

Natasha, I have not yet looked into that issue of Runners World, but I will see if I can find that. I have been doing some strength training, but I haven't been real faithful with it! Hopefully I can get myself into a routine soon!

Thanks again all!

Christine

[Gina O]

Having a hard time getting motivated to run today.... it is cold and extremely windy. The last time I ran on a really windy day my cheeks got very cold. Any suggestions for that problem? Gina

[Natasha]

Hi Christine,
Couldn't agree more with Gina's advice about buying shoes from a store that encourages you to try out different kinds and where someone looks at how you run (and at an old pair of shoes) to determine what is best for you. My store encourages people to take them out for a (short) test run as well as just jogging around the store.
You can use tools such as www.saucony.com (http://www.saucony.com) to find a shoe that is compatible with your needs, and refer to magazines and websites for shoe reviews, but it can't replace trying them out for yourself at a specialized store.
Good luck!

Gina,
You can get scarves, balaclavas etc. for your face that are designed to "breathe". Your running store should have these; otherwise you should be able to find them online. Hang in there!!

[emilycat]

Christine,
I noticed on your profile that you're from Raleigh; I used to live in Chapel Hill, and although it's perhaps a bit of a drive for you, the Fleet Feet Sports in Carrboro is awesome. The staff there is incredibly knowledgeable; they're all avid runners, and can give you great advice on the shoes that would best suit you. Like Natasha mentioned, I always took my out for a "test run" before I bought them.
Also, something to think about. Running shoes are good, on average, for about 500 miles; after that, cushioning and support break down, which can cause knee problems and other not fun stuff. I usually figure on buying a new pair every three months; keep a tally of your mileage so you know when yours need to be replaced. Hope this helps!
Em

[ChristineK]

Emily,

Thanks for the tip about the store! With the long weekend coming up, it will give me the perfect opportunity to get over there. I am also looking for some more trails around this area. Do you happen to know of any good ones?

Christine

[emilycat]

Christine,
I love trail running! I tried to make it to off-road running whenever I had the time. I imagine you know about Duke Forest already, but there are numerous points of entry, and I think various shops (Specialized in Carrboro does, I know) have maps of the forest.
There are some trails in Chapel Hill, as well, that I love, but those are a bit far for you to drive to for a run.
Umstead Park is great, though, have you ever been running there? I ran there several times because it was only about a 15-20 minute drive for me.
I haven't run on any other trails in Raleigh, but you might want to check out citysearch...they used to have a small feature that listed several of the trails in Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill. Also, if you do go to Fleet Feet this weekend, be sure to ask them about trails, also...I'm positive they would know of some good ones.
Happy trails and enjoy your Thanksgiving!
Emily

[Gina O]

The running program I am doing calls for running on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. This week, I am doing a 2 mile run on Saturday which will take less time that I am currently doing. And, after suffering through sub-zero wind chills yesterday (with over 20 mph winds), today it is warm (okay, relatively warm, the wind chill is only in the 20's) and very sunny and I wanna run. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif Will it hurt anything to go ahead and run today, and maybe tomorrow and Thursday then take Friday off before the run on Saturday? Gina

[emilycat]

Gina,

Running programs are very flexible; since every runner is so different, most programs are just designed as an outline. Tailor it to what works best for you, and don't be afraid to tinker with different things. If you feel like going 3 miles one day instead of 3, go for it! Don't feel restrained by what your training schedule tells you to do, because one of the beauties of running is that you can take a sport that is so deceptively simple, and make it divinely unique for yourself. Just listen to your body...challenge it enough, but know when you've had enough. Hope your run today was great! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif
Em

[Gina O]

Thanks Em! It was a great run! I haven't been sleeping much this week (a party Monday, flying last night) so the running really helps give me an energy boost. I also realize that this weather reprive is not going to last long, and feel the need to take full advantage of it.

Thanks to all for answering all my questions. It is great fun for me to learn from your wisdom.

BTW, I also got my shoes from Fleet Feet. At the time I bought them, I did not realize they were a locally owned chain. Unfortunately, they do not have a very large selection of cold weather clothing. I will just have to keep shopping! Gina

[Natasha]

Hi,

I m about to head about for a 10-11 miler in increasingly-heavy rain. There, now that I ve told you all that, I guess I have no choice but to go out and DO IT!! Thanks for making me get out there http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[emilycat]

Natasha,
I must say I admire you for getting out there in the rain...I can tolerate mist and drizzle, or even steady rain in the summertime, but rain in the winter for me is an excuse to cross-train inside! What an inspiration you are...I'll have to use this to get myself outside this morning (and it's partly sunny and around 55 degrees!) I think I'm going through the lackluster aftermath of marathoning right now -- jumped back into running too quickly, and I think now I may be getting mentally burned out.
Keep your posts coming! What a great source of motivation and support! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif
By the way, how did your run go?

[emilycat]

Natasha,
You are definitely not a wuss. Big congrats on finishing your run (in the rain, I might add) even when you didn't feel like it. Doesn't that always make you feel great?

I ended up doing a 7-miler again, my favorite distance as you may have noticed. I'd been at my parents' all weekend, so the scenery and significantly diminished traffic was a really nice change of pace. Quite near my neighborhood and on my route is a farm with lots of cows and a small pond, which is lovely; the rest of my route takes me down to the lake that borders my neighborhood -- I certainly can't say that I ever see any of that in Atlanta!
However, I was nearly mauled by 3 ferocious, nasty canines while I was running, and proceeded to make an idiot of myself while screaming at the top of my lungs until the owners came outside to rescue me. People in rural Georgia seem to think that it's a requirement to own menacing animals in order to terrify passerby. Very annoying. But other than that, my run was great! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Enjoy lazing around watching football...you deserve it!

[This message has been edited by emilycat (edited 11-26-2000).]

[SusieO]

Emily,
That's so funny that you said that about the dogs (although not funny that it happened). I had the same problem while visiting my in-laws in rural SW Georgia. I had three dogs come running down three different driveways with no humans in sight. Fortunately, they were easily cowed and left me alone when I left their territory.

[Gina O]

I have been accompanied by my neighbors dog recently while running and made me think of a question. If I had pepper spray with me, would I use it on a dog? Of course, if I felt seriously threatened I would, but what about only mildly threatened. Any thoughts on this one?

I did my 2 mile run yesterday (in the wind and rain). It went great and I got a very nice t-shirt. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif Right now, for my program I am only running for 8 minutes at a time, so my goal for the race was to run the entire thing without stopping. I made it, although I ran very slowly, it took 22 minutes. Oh well, endurance now, speed later. Gina

[emilycat]

You know, I've never thought of pepper spray before, but call me devilish, but I would definitely use it on a dog if he bared his teeth at me and intimated that he might bite. I'm just soooo sick of being hassled in the middle of an otherwise nice run. I couldn't stop crying after this incident, because the dogs scared me so much, and I thnk I'd feel much safer with something to protect myself...owners aren't always at home.
Gina, congratulations, and great job, on your race!

Emily

[Natasha]

Hi Emily!

Did you get out there today, cross-train, or take a well-deserved day off? I can imagine that it must be hard to get back into things now; in particular, plain old everyday runs must be anticlimactic after qualifying for Boston. I know a lot of people need a good, long break after a marathon, especially when they ve just achieved a big goal of some sort. I admire you for getting out there and running any long distances at all, much less even thinking about Raleigh. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif Pat on the back! But if you feel the need to take it easy, I would go ahead and do so, without feeling guilty - you ve earned it.

My run was not very fun today. The rain actually ended up being drizzle, which I love, and some of the time it wasn t raining at all, so that was good. But my mind and body just weren t into it, especially during the first 4 miles. Then things picked up, but the last 3 1/2 miles were right into a strong wind and then I had to deal with a couple of my least favorite hills (I like some hills, and hill training generally, but these particular hills - ugh!). I must add that once or twice I thought of you guys and you were all one more reason to keep going; I didn t want to come back and report that I hadn t completed my run because of laziness. Thanks for your support http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Anyway, I made it and now just want to curl up and rest and cook and watch football later this afternoon (though I m not a big football fan normally!). Actually, I would love a foot massage too.

I had been thinking of whipping up some appetizers for the game, but if I get too lazy, baked Lays, tortilla chips, salsa, and a few easy dips will have to be enough http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif . I m not sure why I m so bushed today. I m such a wuss. Oh, well, some days are just like that... Take care!


[This message has been edited by Natasha (edited 11-26-2000).]

[SusieO]

Gina --
Great job! Wear your shirt proudly. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

[Gina O]

Thanks to all! Now I am looking toward the next one... a 5K on New Years Eve at 10 pm. It is part of a First Night celebration. Since we did a major New Years Eve thing last year, I don't feel compelled to do something extravagant again this year. I haven't decided for sure yet, but simply the thought of it keeps me going. Gina

[emilycat]

Well, (sigh) I must confess that I have decided to wuss out on Raleigh (gosh, two cop-outs in a row -- I hope this isn't becoming a pattern http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/redface.gif )...Chickamauga satiated my long-distance bug for the time-being, and I'm going to save up for Boston (I'd like to finish the hellacious course, after all)

Anyway, my big reasoning (and I know this is wretched of me) is that I simply don't think I can mentally handle tapering and recovering again. It's the third week now, after the race, and I'm really enjoying being back up (almost) to normal mileage. Lower mileage stresses me out, and puts me at risk for gaining more weight, which I'm also not ready to tolerate.
So, anyway, I think next up is a Jingle Jog on January 16, and I'm contemplating a 5 or 10K on New Year's...I've never done that, and it sounds like so much fun! What a way to ring in the New Year! Has anyone else ever done this?

I hope everyone else's running, training, racing, whatever suits you, is going great!

Em

[This message has been edited by emilycat (edited 11-28-2000).]

[Gina O]

Okay, here is my silly question for the day.... do you ever feel like getting in and out of your running bra is a form of cross-training!?!?!? http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif Gina

[SusieO]

I would say getting out of a sweaty exercise bra is more like a contortion act!

[Natasha]

LOL! I hear you; in fact, I experienced this not long ago at the gym this afternoon! I felt like Harry Houdini. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/tongue.gif Some are very easy to get out of, but others - far from it!

Keep on running, and loving it! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[Natasha]

Em,

You're not wussing out at all. I'm sure you'll be happy when Boston rolls around and you're in top shape for it and rarin' to go! Enjoy yourself out on the trails and byways of rural Georgia!

[Gina O]

I did run today, but can't say I loved it... I hate wind!!!! For the first time in several weeks I almost gave up and started walking as I was topping a hill and got blasted by about a 30 mph headwind. To make matters worse, I saw my first snake while running!!!! (I really, really, really hate snakes) Thankfully, it was only a baby, and soon after I saw it, it had an unpleasant run-in with a truck tire and lost. Not sure what it was doing out in Missouri at the end of November, but it will not have the chance to make that mistake again.

Anyway, I did get out there and complete the program and feel good for having done it! Someday, I am going to take up an activity that is not adversely affected by strong winds... perhaps knitting or needlepoint. Flying, biking and running just aren't working from that angle. Gina

[Natasha]

Gina,
I'm interested in hearing more about your flying. Sounds fascinating! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[ChristineK]

Gina,

I totally agree with you about not loving running today...although I was on the treadmill, so I can't blame it on natural forces! I was really into it and I must have pulled out the safety key and it stopped mid-way though. So, I get back on and about 10 more minutes into it, I did the same thing again! At that point I was almost done with my workout, and irritated, so I called it a day. But it was one of those times that I felt like going and just got frustrated with the other situations! There is always tomorrow though! And at least I went...I feel better now!

Christine