Distance: 1 mile
Time: ?
Location: Rio Vista School and Back
Tomorrow is the big Cucamonga Peak hike. I should have been running for several weeks prior to this endeavor, but instead I did virtually nothing. I rolled my ankle on my last run, which was November 4th, and haven't run since. Part of that time was spent recovering, but my ankle seemed to heal pretty quickly, so I really didn't have an excuse. Finally, tonight, on the eve of the hike, I had had enough. I decided just to go run and not even think about it, because the minute I start thinking is the minute I come up with a million reasons to not go. So I quickly put on my running shorts and shoes (I didn't bother with the MiCoach) and headed for the door. Once there, Deborah suggested I take the dogs, and since I wasn't going to stop and think about anything I quickly said, "sure!" So we threw the leashes on them and out the door we went. Before I knew what had happened I was running up our street being practically pulled by two dogs as if I were on a sled! They had a lot of energy initially and I was definitely going faster than I had planned. But we all soon fell into a comfortable pace and kept it the whole way to the school. Once there we stopped for a quick breather. My dogs were doing great. They didn't stop the whole time and they would only increase their pace when they would hear another dog. We were soon heading back and it was smooth sailing all the way home. All in all it was a great run! I may just take the dogs out more often! They keep it interesting and probably force me to increase my pace more than I would otherwise. So hopefully tonight's run will help a little for tomorrow's hike. Obviously the reality is it is probably too little too late, but it's better than nothing. Tomorrow is going to be a challenge like no other. We'll be climbing over 6,000 feet to the summit of Cucamonga Peak! It's going to be one of the most epic things I've done.
Friday, November 16, 2012
Sunday, November 4, 2012
Seriously?
Distance: .66 miles
Time: 8:15
Location: Ottawa Rd.
Two weeks before running a 5K this past June I twisted my left ankle really bad on a trail run up near Lake Arrowhead. Two weeks before climbing Cucamonga Peak in November I twist my other ankle running along a road by my house. Really? I guess the road to getting in shape is meant to be a difficult one. And I'm sure encountering my fair share of obstacles.
I don't have much to say about this run. It was a waste of one, essentially. I was planning on getting in 2 miles, and I felt like I'd be able to (unlike yesterday). But as I was running east along Ottawa Road a car was driving toward me and its headlights prevented me from seeing the ground in front of me. I was trying to avoid the lip of asphalt that sits about an inch above the dirt, but my right foot landed right on it and I went forward, almost face-planting into the dirt, but luckily regaining my balance. I was instantly upset considering the same thing had just happened 5 months earlier. But this ankle sprain seemed less severe and I contemplated continuing my run. But I also considered that if I damaged it further the hike would be off. So I hung my head and turned to walk home. My ankle was feeling pretty good, so I decided to lightly run the last quarter mile home. But now as I type I can tell it's swelling, so it's off to elevate and ice. I hope I can recover well enough to run again before the hike. Sprained ankles had never been a problem for me before. I'm not sure why it is now. Though it's clear I need to strengthen them badly.
Time: 8:15
Location: Ottawa Rd.
Two weeks before running a 5K this past June I twisted my left ankle really bad on a trail run up near Lake Arrowhead. Two weeks before climbing Cucamonga Peak in November I twist my other ankle running along a road by my house. Really? I guess the road to getting in shape is meant to be a difficult one. And I'm sure encountering my fair share of obstacles.
I don't have much to say about this run. It was a waste of one, essentially. I was planning on getting in 2 miles, and I felt like I'd be able to (unlike yesterday). But as I was running east along Ottawa Road a car was driving toward me and its headlights prevented me from seeing the ground in front of me. I was trying to avoid the lip of asphalt that sits about an inch above the dirt, but my right foot landed right on it and I went forward, almost face-planting into the dirt, but luckily regaining my balance. I was instantly upset considering the same thing had just happened 5 months earlier. But this ankle sprain seemed less severe and I contemplated continuing my run. But I also considered that if I damaged it further the hike would be off. So I hung my head and turned to walk home. My ankle was feeling pretty good, so I decided to lightly run the last quarter mile home. But now as I type I can tell it's swelling, so it's off to elevate and ice. I hope I can recover well enough to run again before the hike. Sprained ankles had never been a problem for me before. I'm not sure why it is now. Though it's clear I need to strengthen them badly.
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Better Late Than November
Distance: 1.04 miles
Time: 10:00
Location: Ottawa to Apple Valley
Here we are, November. Somehow a whole two months slipped by without a single run. Luckily my friends came up with the idea to hike to the top of Cucamonga Peak on November 17th, which meant that I had to start my training back up! So today I determined to lace up and get out there. Unfortunately the result was a less-than-stellar 1-mile run. I felt heavy, sloppy, and completely out of shape. It was a tough two months off apparently. I originally wanted to get 2 miles in, but right away I could tell I didn't have two miles in me. A cramp was threatening to set in and my breathing was wheezy and labored. I ran out to Apple Valley Rd. and turned around and headed back. I tried to keep as good a pace as I could and I gave a little kick at the end. It took me about 10 minutes to do the whole thing, but my pace was actually 9:35/mile. The truth of the matter is I let myself go quite a bit these past two months and now I have two weeks to repair the damage. Not an easy task, in fact quite near impossible. But what I can hope to do is simply get back on the right track and at least get my body used to physical exertion again. That way, when I'm climbing to the top of an 8,000 foot peak, my body won't break down in shock. So tonight's run was forgettable, but it was just one run. What's important is that I run each and every moment I'm able. I will not stop.
Time: 10:00
Location: Ottawa to Apple Valley
Here we are, November. Somehow a whole two months slipped by without a single run. Luckily my friends came up with the idea to hike to the top of Cucamonga Peak on November 17th, which meant that I had to start my training back up! So today I determined to lace up and get out there. Unfortunately the result was a less-than-stellar 1-mile run. I felt heavy, sloppy, and completely out of shape. It was a tough two months off apparently. I originally wanted to get 2 miles in, but right away I could tell I didn't have two miles in me. A cramp was threatening to set in and my breathing was wheezy and labored. I ran out to Apple Valley Rd. and turned around and headed back. I tried to keep as good a pace as I could and I gave a little kick at the end. It took me about 10 minutes to do the whole thing, but my pace was actually 9:35/mile. The truth of the matter is I let myself go quite a bit these past two months and now I have two weeks to repair the damage. Not an easy task, in fact quite near impossible. But what I can hope to do is simply get back on the right track and at least get my body used to physical exertion again. That way, when I'm climbing to the top of an 8,000 foot peak, my body won't break down in shock. So tonight's run was forgettable, but it was just one run. What's important is that I run each and every moment I'm able. I will not stop.
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Maxing Out In the Desert Heat
Time: 27:30
Distance: 2.76 miles
Location: Granite Hills
I had a feeling this run was going to be a rough one. It was about 4:00pm and the temperature had reached the mid-90s. Today is the first day of September, and even though autumn is only weeks away, it felt very much like summer was at its peak. But I had to get a run in since I wasn't able to yesterday and I probably won't be able to tomorrow. And I would have gone later today but I'm leaving this evening to go see a show in L.A. So, still riding the wave of motivation brought on by my MiCoach, I headed out into the heat. I decided to drive east out to my old route at Granite Hills High School. I haven't run out that way since June of 2011 when Deborah and I lived out there. Since moving to the west side of Apple Valley, all my runs have been out here. But the Granite Hills run had always been one of my favorites because of its seclusion and convenient route. So I made the 10 minute drive out, parked in my old spot, and headed off. The first mile wasn't too bad. The wind started to kick up, which made it a little challenging (but also a little relieving). The 2nd mile it started to get tough. The sun was taking its toll on me and my pace began to slow. By the time I approached the beginning of mile 3 I was almost at my end. I usually run in the evening when the sun has set, so day runs tend to wipe me out pretty bad. Mile 3 was bad. Several times I wanted to stop. At about 20 minutes into the run I was maxed out. I began to worry about heat stroke. When I rounded the corner and began heading west toward the school again, I decided to make a little stop. It was about 24:00 into the run. I hate walking and I don't usually do it, but this was a case where I needed to listen to my body. I was feeling overheated and overworked. I walked for about a minute then ran the rest of the way back to my car. I was definitely exhausted when I was done. I clung to a chain-link fence just to stay on my feet. I drank a Vitamin Water I had brought and then got in my car and drove home. I was definitely wiped out. But I knew I had pushed myself to the max, which is all I could ask of myself. In the end I synced my MiCoach and was satisfied with the results. A 9:57 pace and I burned 377 calories. Not a bad late summer run.
Distance: 2.76 miles
Location: Granite Hills
I had a feeling this run was going to be a rough one. It was about 4:00pm and the temperature had reached the mid-90s. Today is the first day of September, and even though autumn is only weeks away, it felt very much like summer was at its peak. But I had to get a run in since I wasn't able to yesterday and I probably won't be able to tomorrow. And I would have gone later today but I'm leaving this evening to go see a show in L.A. So, still riding the wave of motivation brought on by my MiCoach, I headed out into the heat. I decided to drive east out to my old route at Granite Hills High School. I haven't run out that way since June of 2011 when Deborah and I lived out there. Since moving to the west side of Apple Valley, all my runs have been out here. But the Granite Hills run had always been one of my favorites because of its seclusion and convenient route. So I made the 10 minute drive out, parked in my old spot, and headed off. The first mile wasn't too bad. The wind started to kick up, which made it a little challenging (but also a little relieving). The 2nd mile it started to get tough. The sun was taking its toll on me and my pace began to slow. By the time I approached the beginning of mile 3 I was almost at my end. I usually run in the evening when the sun has set, so day runs tend to wipe me out pretty bad. Mile 3 was bad. Several times I wanted to stop. At about 20 minutes into the run I was maxed out. I began to worry about heat stroke. When I rounded the corner and began heading west toward the school again, I decided to make a little stop. It was about 24:00 into the run. I hate walking and I don't usually do it, but this was a case where I needed to listen to my body. I was feeling overheated and overworked. I walked for about a minute then ran the rest of the way back to my car. I was definitely exhausted when I was done. I clung to a chain-link fence just to stay on my feet. I drank a Vitamin Water I had brought and then got in my car and drove home. I was definitely wiped out. But I knew I had pushed myself to the max, which is all I could ask of myself. In the end I synced my MiCoach and was satisfied with the results. A 9:57 pace and I burned 377 calories. Not a bad late summer run.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Last Run of My 33rd Year
Time: 23:50
Distance: 2.49 miles
Location: Apple Valley to Sitting Bull Academy
Ah, the sweet air of a late summer night! The temperature graciously dipped down to the 70s this evening, which is quite cool for a late August night up here. The clouds played dramatically with the light and the moon was bright and full. It was one of those peaceful, perfect nights. My training schedule had me getting in 25 minutes tonight, so with my MiCoach intact, I set out on a lovely run. Tonight's run felt great! I went down Apple Valley to Sitting Bull, then turned left and headed another quarter mile to Sitting Bull Academy, then retraced my steps back home. I felt like my pace stayed steady throughout, and I was able to muster a small kick at the end. My last run, on Sunday, I averaged a 10:01/mile pace, but tonight my pace was a 9:34/mile -- a nice improvement! My new shoes are feeling better each time I use them. I've officially logged 6 miles on them and I am definitely happy with them -- very comfortable and light.
Things are going great so far since getting the MiCoach! Again, more than likely I would not be running right now without that cool device. I'm stressed out at work, which normally squashes all my motivation, but I've found a new drive and I plan on going strong for as along as I can, even through the freezing high desert winter! Tomorrow I am supposed to run, but it's going to be difficult to do that. I'm supposed to stay for the high school football game in Barstow, which means I may not be home till late. Plus it's my birthday, and I may give myself a birthday break. Hehe.
Distance: 2.49 miles
Location: Apple Valley to Sitting Bull Academy
Ah, the sweet air of a late summer night! The temperature graciously dipped down to the 70s this evening, which is quite cool for a late August night up here. The clouds played dramatically with the light and the moon was bright and full. It was one of those peaceful, perfect nights. My training schedule had me getting in 25 minutes tonight, so with my MiCoach intact, I set out on a lovely run. Tonight's run felt great! I went down Apple Valley to Sitting Bull, then turned left and headed another quarter mile to Sitting Bull Academy, then retraced my steps back home. I felt like my pace stayed steady throughout, and I was able to muster a small kick at the end. My last run, on Sunday, I averaged a 10:01/mile pace, but tonight my pace was a 9:34/mile -- a nice improvement! My new shoes are feeling better each time I use them. I've officially logged 6 miles on them and I am definitely happy with them -- very comfortable and light.
Things are going great so far since getting the MiCoach! Again, more than likely I would not be running right now without that cool device. I'm stressed out at work, which normally squashes all my motivation, but I've found a new drive and I plan on going strong for as along as I can, even through the freezing high desert winter! Tomorrow I am supposed to run, but it's going to be difficult to do that. I'm supposed to stay for the high school football game in Barstow, which means I may not be home till late. Plus it's my birthday, and I may give myself a birthday break. Hehe.
Sunday, August 26, 2012
Running Through the Late Summer Breeze
Time: 24:25
Distance: 2.44 miles
Location: Top of Yucca Loma Rd.
Day 2 of MiCoach training! I can already tell this MiCoach device is working. I know that I would not have run yesterday nor today had it not been for my new contraption that measures my distance, pace, speed, etc. Yesterday was a small warm-up run, but today I needed to push it a bit more. I'm following a pre-made 5K training plan I found on the MiCoach webpage. I needed 25 minutes of running tonight, so that's just what I did.
It was a pleasant evening after a warm day in the 90s. There was a gentle breeze (the increase in windiness lately an indication that summer is winding down), and the daylight was slowly fading. I set out on the Yucca Loma run, which takes me up a slow and gradual hill heading east of Apple Valley Rd. At the top of the hill I turned and headed back down. The view, like usual on this run, was beautiful: the San Gabriels' silhouette starkly prominent on the horizon, the lights of the desert valleys glistening as the light receded. Running uphill was a struggle, but the run down was a pure breeze, a genuine delight. When I got back home I synced my Speed Cell (the actual device that is in my shoe) to the MiCoach website and viewed my stats. I burned over 300 calories, but my pace was rather slow -- a 10:01/mile. This was probably due to the slow pace going uphill. I'm excited to be running at this time of year, a rare thing. The weather should be cooling in a matter of weeks, and I can't wait!
Distance: 2.44 miles
Location: Top of Yucca Loma Rd.
Day 2 of MiCoach training! I can already tell this MiCoach device is working. I know that I would not have run yesterday nor today had it not been for my new contraption that measures my distance, pace, speed, etc. Yesterday was a small warm-up run, but today I needed to push it a bit more. I'm following a pre-made 5K training plan I found on the MiCoach webpage. I needed 25 minutes of running tonight, so that's just what I did.
It was a pleasant evening after a warm day in the 90s. There was a gentle breeze (the increase in windiness lately an indication that summer is winding down), and the daylight was slowly fading. I set out on the Yucca Loma run, which takes me up a slow and gradual hill heading east of Apple Valley Rd. At the top of the hill I turned and headed back down. The view, like usual on this run, was beautiful: the San Gabriels' silhouette starkly prominent on the horizon, the lights of the desert valleys glistening as the light receded. Running uphill was a struggle, but the run down was a pure breeze, a genuine delight. When I got back home I synced my Speed Cell (the actual device that is in my shoe) to the MiCoach website and viewed my stats. I burned over 300 calories, but my pace was rather slow -- a 10:01/mile. This was probably due to the slow pace going uphill. I'm excited to be running at this time of year, a rare thing. The weather should be cooling in a matter of weeks, and I can't wait!
Saturday, August 25, 2012
Back on Track with "MiCoach"!
Time: 13:20
Distance: 1.34 miles
Location: Apple Valley Road
Well, I've started something new. July 3 was my last run, and at that time I thought I'd be training for another 5K up in the mountains throughout July. Instead, my wife and I embarked on what became a 3-week road trip up to Canada (which was awesome), got back and stopped training altogether. I had to cancel plans for the 5K. I then started back up at work, which, historically speaking, is an automatic training killer. Normally, I don't run during this time of year. Two years ago I was able to get a couple of runs in during September, but that was it. Last year I went from July to the following May without running. This year I knew I needed to try something new, so that's where the MiCoach comes in!
I read an article about this device made by Adidas called a MiCoach, a little gadget you insert into your shoe that tracks your runs and displays graphs and data about your runs on your computer. I knew this was something that would motivate me, so I mentioned it to Deborah and she was nice enough to order it for me for my birthday (along with some new Adidas running shoes). I received the shoes and the MiCoach yesterday and decided to take them on their maiden voyage tonight. I still don't have a complete grasp of how it all works. I inserted the MiCoach into the shoe and departed for an "assessment" run that was supposed to analyze my stats so my training regimen could be better personalized for me. It was to be a 12:00 run. So I ran out towards Apple Valley Rd. for about 7:00 then turned back and stopped running when the watch read 12:00. Then I went inside my house and synced the MiCoach to my computer (via a USB component) and viewed my stats. I wasn't able to assign my workout to my training program, so I've still got some things to figure out, but it was nonetheless super cool to see things like pace, speed, number of steps, calories burned, etc. My average pace was 9:59/mile and I burned 182 calories. It was a slow run, but it was cool to try this new toy out! Hopefully soon I'll be able to figure out how it all works and soon I'll be tracking data like a maniac! This was perfect timing, too, because, again, traditionally this is the time of year that is the toughest for me to keep running. If the MiCoach can keep me running through the fall and winter, it will have been worth every penny.
Distance: 1.34 miles
Location: Apple Valley Road
Well, I've started something new. July 3 was my last run, and at that time I thought I'd be training for another 5K up in the mountains throughout July. Instead, my wife and I embarked on what became a 3-week road trip up to Canada (which was awesome), got back and stopped training altogether. I had to cancel plans for the 5K. I then started back up at work, which, historically speaking, is an automatic training killer. Normally, I don't run during this time of year. Two years ago I was able to get a couple of runs in during September, but that was it. Last year I went from July to the following May without running. This year I knew I needed to try something new, so that's where the MiCoach comes in!
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Beginning July
Distance: 2 miles
Time: 19:58
Location: Apple Valley to Sitting Bull
Tonight was my first real run since the 5K on Saturday. Sunday night I did go out on a little run with my wife. She and I have been working on her mile for a while now, and on Sunday she logged her fastest mile of late! But those runs are more for her so I didn't post about it on here. I love getting to work with her and try to get her to develop a love of running. So tonight I decided to bring my watch along and try to get a nice timed run in. I opted to go old school and simply time a 2-mile run, instead of trying to hit 20 or 25 minutes. I ran my typical 2-mile route to Sitting Bull. It wasn't bad, definitely a slow pace, but I felt alright the whole time. No significant pain, but I also didn't feel any significant improvements. My times this year in general have been a lot slower. Part of that is due to my decision to run mainly for a period of time rather than for a specified distance. When all I need to do is fill up 20 minutes with running, I don't bother to go too fast because it seems to be besides the point. But when I'm running 2 miles I want to see if I can run it faster than before. Maybe none of this makes sense, but it's my (strange) logic. Anyway, tonight's 2-miler was okay; I ran it in 19:58, which, compared to 2-mile runs in the past, is not good, but compared to how I've done this year, it's a step forward.
After running last week's 5K, Scott and I right away said that we wanted to do another one. The first one that came to my mind was the "Run Through the Pines" 5K that occurs in August each year up in Crestline, near Lake Arrowhead. It's an intimidating run because of the elevation, but I bet it would be fun. Scott was immediately determined to do it, so it looks likely that we could be running that in about a month. Training will be tricky though, because on Monday we depart for a 2-week road trip up the West Coast to Canada. If I'm lucky I'll get to run while on the trip, but more than likely it will come down to the runs I get in before the trip and after. Let's see if I can keep it going when the thick of summer sets in.
Time: 19:58
Location: Apple Valley to Sitting Bull
Tonight was my first real run since the 5K on Saturday. Sunday night I did go out on a little run with my wife. She and I have been working on her mile for a while now, and on Sunday she logged her fastest mile of late! But those runs are more for her so I didn't post about it on here. I love getting to work with her and try to get her to develop a love of running. So tonight I decided to bring my watch along and try to get a nice timed run in. I opted to go old school and simply time a 2-mile run, instead of trying to hit 20 or 25 minutes. I ran my typical 2-mile route to Sitting Bull. It wasn't bad, definitely a slow pace, but I felt alright the whole time. No significant pain, but I also didn't feel any significant improvements. My times this year in general have been a lot slower. Part of that is due to my decision to run mainly for a period of time rather than for a specified distance. When all I need to do is fill up 20 minutes with running, I don't bother to go too fast because it seems to be besides the point. But when I'm running 2 miles I want to see if I can run it faster than before. Maybe none of this makes sense, but it's my (strange) logic. Anyway, tonight's 2-miler was okay; I ran it in 19:58, which, compared to 2-mile runs in the past, is not good, but compared to how I've done this year, it's a step forward.
After running last week's 5K, Scott and I right away said that we wanted to do another one. The first one that came to my mind was the "Run Through the Pines" 5K that occurs in August each year up in Crestline, near Lake Arrowhead. It's an intimidating run because of the elevation, but I bet it would be fun. Scott was immediately determined to do it, so it looks likely that we could be running that in about a month. Training will be tricky though, because on Monday we depart for a 2-week road trip up the West Coast to Canada. If I'm lucky I'll get to run while on the trip, but more than likely it will come down to the runs I get in before the trip and after. Let's see if I can keep it going when the thick of summer sets in.
Saturday, June 30, 2012
First Official 5K!
Distance: 3.2 miles
Time: 32:20
Location: Mojave Narrows
Mission accomplished! This morning I completed my first official 5K. I was nowhere near ready for it, and my time would indicate that, but nonetheless it was an awesome experience. In the two weeks before the race I literally ran only twice -- probably the worst race preparation ever. But an ankle injury and a bad sunburn prevented me from training properly. But none of that mattered when I woke up this morning and had no choice but to head to the race and jump in.
My friend Scott also participated in the 5K. He spent the night last night and this morning, along with my wife, we headed to Mojave Narrows Regional Park in Victorville. I felt pretty good, all things considered. I didn't have any muscle pain or soreness (the stuff that was plaguing me a few weeks back when I was training hard), but I knew that what was going to be a struggle was simply my lack of stamina once the race got going. As 7:30 approached we all lined up and soon enough we were off. The first mile felt fine. My pace was slow, but that was mainly due to the volume of people and the fact that the pathway narrowed making it difficult to get around people. I was able to pass a few people when the opportunity allowed it, but for the most part I had to simply fall in line. Right away I noted the pleasant scenery. To our left was a marshy waterway, and most of the first mile was in the shade of thick trees. At one point we entered a clearing where a bunch of cows were grazing. I had never been to Mojave Narrows so this was a cool experience. Finally after about 1.5 miles the pathway opened up and I was able to break away from the pack a little. This whole time I was passing people about as frequently as people passed me. I knew my pace was slow, but I also knew I wasn't in good shape and I didn't want to kill myself too soon. It was humbling when I would get passed by an older man or a woman, but I had to remember my ankle wasn't 100% and my training took a nose dive the last two weeks. It was humbling but also motivating to get myself more prepared for next time. The one thing that I didn't like about this 5K was it didn't have mile markers. By this point in the race (about 1.5 miles) I had no idea where I was and I thought I had barely covered a mile. I wasn't able to adjust my pace because I had no way to gauge my distance. When I got to about 2 miles I was really starting to struggle. I had run right through the first water station, but when we got to the second one I needed something to give myself a boost, so I grabbed a water and just dumped it on my head. I didn't stop once, and that at least was the one goal I was able to meet. After the second water station came the most challenging part of the race. As we ran around a small lake called Pelican Lake the trail turned into a soft, sandy pathway. It was the most difficult stuff to run in. Every step took twice as much effort with hardly any results. It was like running in place almost. This went on for about a 1/4 mile. At this point in the run (about 2.5 miles) the group had spread out so that I was nearly running alone. There was no way I was going to pass the person way ahead of me, and I had a good enough lead in front of the person behind me that I could relax a little. We finally exited the soft sand and headed for the home stretch, except I didn't know it was the home stretch because, again, no markers. As we finished up the third mile we came upon another picturesque scene. Off to the left was a small river with horses all around, some actually wading through the water. Then I spotted something drinking from the water that didn't look like a horse. As it raised its head I realized it was a llama! It was enough to distract me for a few moments. Finally we got to the point where the 10K runners split from us. Even though I felt like we had only gone about 2 miles, we had really reached the mile 3 marker and there was only a little more to go. Soon I saw the finish line and I went for it. I was able to kick it in, though it was far from a powerful kick. And when I saw my final time of 32:20 I was sorely disappointed. But then I thought about it and realized the circumstances and I got over it pretty quick. It was the slowest I've run 3 miles, but it was also the least prepared I've been for a race. I was 54th out of 79 runners. I felt good when I was done. My wife wanted to watch the kids run (they had a bunch of kids run one mile), so we stayed to see that. Then we departed. I was amped to do another one. My time was so bad that I know there is nothing left to do but improve. Hopefully I'll be able to make this a regular thing. It was a blast today! Despite my slow pace and my horrible time, I enjoyed every minute of it. It's a feeling I'll be seeking again.
Time: 32:20
Location: Mojave Narrows
Mission accomplished! This morning I completed my first official 5K. I was nowhere near ready for it, and my time would indicate that, but nonetheless it was an awesome experience. In the two weeks before the race I literally ran only twice -- probably the worst race preparation ever. But an ankle injury and a bad sunburn prevented me from training properly. But none of that mattered when I woke up this morning and had no choice but to head to the race and jump in.
My friend Scott also participated in the 5K. He spent the night last night and this morning, along with my wife, we headed to Mojave Narrows Regional Park in Victorville. I felt pretty good, all things considered. I didn't have any muscle pain or soreness (the stuff that was plaguing me a few weeks back when I was training hard), but I knew that what was going to be a struggle was simply my lack of stamina once the race got going. As 7:30 approached we all lined up and soon enough we were off. The first mile felt fine. My pace was slow, but that was mainly due to the volume of people and the fact that the pathway narrowed making it difficult to get around people. I was able to pass a few people when the opportunity allowed it, but for the most part I had to simply fall in line. Right away I noted the pleasant scenery. To our left was a marshy waterway, and most of the first mile was in the shade of thick trees. At one point we entered a clearing where a bunch of cows were grazing. I had never been to Mojave Narrows so this was a cool experience. Finally after about 1.5 miles the pathway opened up and I was able to break away from the pack a little. This whole time I was passing people about as frequently as people passed me. I knew my pace was slow, but I also knew I wasn't in good shape and I didn't want to kill myself too soon. It was humbling when I would get passed by an older man or a woman, but I had to remember my ankle wasn't 100% and my training took a nose dive the last two weeks. It was humbling but also motivating to get myself more prepared for next time. The one thing that I didn't like about this 5K was it didn't have mile markers. By this point in the race (about 1.5 miles) I had no idea where I was and I thought I had barely covered a mile. I wasn't able to adjust my pace because I had no way to gauge my distance. When I got to about 2 miles I was really starting to struggle. I had run right through the first water station, but when we got to the second one I needed something to give myself a boost, so I grabbed a water and just dumped it on my head. I didn't stop once, and that at least was the one goal I was able to meet. After the second water station came the most challenging part of the race. As we ran around a small lake called Pelican Lake the trail turned into a soft, sandy pathway. It was the most difficult stuff to run in. Every step took twice as much effort with hardly any results. It was like running in place almost. This went on for about a 1/4 mile. At this point in the run (about 2.5 miles) the group had spread out so that I was nearly running alone. There was no way I was going to pass the person way ahead of me, and I had a good enough lead in front of the person behind me that I could relax a little. We finally exited the soft sand and headed for the home stretch, except I didn't know it was the home stretch because, again, no markers. As we finished up the third mile we came upon another picturesque scene. Off to the left was a small river with horses all around, some actually wading through the water. Then I spotted something drinking from the water that didn't look like a horse. As it raised its head I realized it was a llama! It was enough to distract me for a few moments. Finally we got to the point where the 10K runners split from us. Even though I felt like we had only gone about 2 miles, we had really reached the mile 3 marker and there was only a little more to go. Soon I saw the finish line and I went for it. I was able to kick it in, though it was far from a powerful kick. And when I saw my final time of 32:20 I was sorely disappointed. But then I thought about it and realized the circumstances and I got over it pretty quick. It was the slowest I've run 3 miles, but it was also the least prepared I've been for a race. I was 54th out of 79 runners. I felt good when I was done. My wife wanted to watch the kids run (they had a bunch of kids run one mile), so we stayed to see that. Then we departed. I was amped to do another one. My time was so bad that I know there is nothing left to do but improve. Hopefully I'll be able to make this a regular thing. It was a blast today! Despite my slow pace and my horrible time, I enjoyed every minute of it. It's a feeling I'll be seeking again.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Last-Ditch Effort
Distance: 1 mile
Time: ?
Location: Yucca Loma Road
Well, one day till race time. I pretty much ruined any chance of training and preparing properly for this 5K after a couple of unfortunate incidents during the last 2 weeks (see last entry). But I had a good run on Wednesday and I decided to get one last run in today, though I knew not to overdo it the day before a race. So I drove myself up to where Yucca Loma ends at the Mojave River and ran a half mile east, turned around and retraced my steps for an even mile. It was about 1:30 in the afternoon and it was a scorcher (about 90 degrees). And it was a struggle. I ought to probably be more worried than I am right now. I definitely don't have the proper amount of conditioning under my belt to tackle 3 miles comfortably right now. The mile I ran today was a mixed bag -- on the one hand I started off feeling good and I ended feeling like I had hit a comfortable stride, but everything in between was a labored, difficult, very slow, jog. My breathing was really bad. I'm hoping a lot of this was due to the heat. But more than likely tomorrow's race is going to be extremely challenging. My prediction is that mile 1 will be okay, mile 2 will be a struggle, and mile 3 will be nearly impossible. But who knows, maybe I'll surprise myself.
My next post will be a review of the run. It ought to be interesting.
Time: ?
Location: Yucca Loma Road
Well, one day till race time. I pretty much ruined any chance of training and preparing properly for this 5K after a couple of unfortunate incidents during the last 2 weeks (see last entry). But I had a good run on Wednesday and I decided to get one last run in today, though I knew not to overdo it the day before a race. So I drove myself up to where Yucca Loma ends at the Mojave River and ran a half mile east, turned around and retraced my steps for an even mile. It was about 1:30 in the afternoon and it was a scorcher (about 90 degrees). And it was a struggle. I ought to probably be more worried than I am right now. I definitely don't have the proper amount of conditioning under my belt to tackle 3 miles comfortably right now. The mile I ran today was a mixed bag -- on the one hand I started off feeling good and I ended feeling like I had hit a comfortable stride, but everything in between was a labored, difficult, very slow, jog. My breathing was really bad. I'm hoping a lot of this was due to the heat. But more than likely tomorrow's race is going to be extremely challenging. My prediction is that mile 1 will be okay, mile 2 will be a struggle, and mile 3 will be nearly impossible. But who knows, maybe I'll surprise myself.
My next post will be a review of the run. It ought to be interesting.
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
What Training?
Distance: 2 miles
Time: ?
Location: Apple Valley to Sitting Bull
In a perfect world, I'd be training hard every day and feeling 100% ready for Saturday's 5K. In reality, my ankle still hurts from rolling it on June 15, I went almost 2 weeks without a run, and I'm nowhere near ready for the 5K in three days. Eight weeks ago I signed up for the Mojave Narrows 5K, figuring it would be plenty of time to prepare. And for the next 6 weeks things were going great. I was running fairly regularly and I could detect my progress. Then a couple of setbacks landed in my lap. The first was actually preventable -- it was just a failure on my part to make time to run as I became overwhelmed with work and a week's worth of busy days. I finally got a couple of runs in and I was actually feeling pretty good when the disaster of June 15 struck. I rolled my ankle pretty bad during a trail run up in Lake Arrowhead. It put me out of commission for almost two weeks. I would have been able to bounce back sooner, but only a few days later, on June 21, I was at the beach and my feet got so sunburned that I could hardly walk on them. Over the next couple of days my ankle that was already injured and swollen from rolling it, puffed up like a balloon because of the sunburn! I was couch-ridden for the next few days. A lot of ice and rest and finally, today, June 27, I felt confident enough to go for a run. It's been a mess of a training session these last couple of weeks, but there's no turning back. I've set my mind to running on Saturday, and even if I'm crawling over the finish line, I'm going for it!
Tonight's run was simply a tester. I wanted to run lightly on it just to see how much my ankle could take. I ran 2 miles, to Sitting Bull and back. And I was pretty happy with how it went. My ankle definitely is not 100%... I'd say maybe 75-80%. But it didn't hinder me too much. In fact, I was able to run harder than I intended. I didn't bring my watch because I simply wanted to take it easy and test my foot out. Even though I was able to run on my ankle, my stamina was another story. That may be the biggest challenge Saturday, just being able to endure the run. My breathing was bad and after 2 miles I was officially done -- I'm not sure I could have done another. I'm basically out of time to train, so I have to hope adrenaline kicks in Saturday, or it's gonna be a long race. Hopefully I can get one more training run in tomorrow. Then it's nothing but fingers crossed.
Time: ?
Location: Apple Valley to Sitting Bull
In a perfect world, I'd be training hard every day and feeling 100% ready for Saturday's 5K. In reality, my ankle still hurts from rolling it on June 15, I went almost 2 weeks without a run, and I'm nowhere near ready for the 5K in three days. Eight weeks ago I signed up for the Mojave Narrows 5K, figuring it would be plenty of time to prepare. And for the next 6 weeks things were going great. I was running fairly regularly and I could detect my progress. Then a couple of setbacks landed in my lap. The first was actually preventable -- it was just a failure on my part to make time to run as I became overwhelmed with work and a week's worth of busy days. I finally got a couple of runs in and I was actually feeling pretty good when the disaster of June 15 struck. I rolled my ankle pretty bad during a trail run up in Lake Arrowhead. It put me out of commission for almost two weeks. I would have been able to bounce back sooner, but only a few days later, on June 21, I was at the beach and my feet got so sunburned that I could hardly walk on them. Over the next couple of days my ankle that was already injured and swollen from rolling it, puffed up like a balloon because of the sunburn! I was couch-ridden for the next few days. A lot of ice and rest and finally, today, June 27, I felt confident enough to go for a run. It's been a mess of a training session these last couple of weeks, but there's no turning back. I've set my mind to running on Saturday, and even if I'm crawling over the finish line, I'm going for it!
Tonight's run was simply a tester. I wanted to run lightly on it just to see how much my ankle could take. I ran 2 miles, to Sitting Bull and back. And I was pretty happy with how it went. My ankle definitely is not 100%... I'd say maybe 75-80%. But it didn't hinder me too much. In fact, I was able to run harder than I intended. I didn't bring my watch because I simply wanted to take it easy and test my foot out. Even though I was able to run on my ankle, my stamina was another story. That may be the biggest challenge Saturday, just being able to endure the run. My breathing was bad and after 2 miles I was officially done -- I'm not sure I could have done another. I'm basically out of time to train, so I have to hope adrenaline kicks in Saturday, or it's gonna be a long race. Hopefully I can get one more training run in tomorrow. Then it's nothing but fingers crossed.
Monday, June 18, 2012
Mountain Highs & Lows
Lake Arrowhead Runs:
Run #1 (June 14, 2012) - Distance: 2.58 miles / Time: ? / Location: Route 173 and various roads south of the lake.
Run #2 (June 14, 2012) - Distance: 0.85 miles / Time: ? / Location: Lake Arrowhead Village
Run #3 (June 15, 2012) - Distance: 0.69 miles / Time: ? / Location: Indian Rock Trail north of the lake.
My two-day running retreat in Lake Arrowhead proved to be both rewarding and disastrous. I met my friend Scott at my parents' cabin in Lake Arrowhead Thursday afternoon. We unpacked and without delay began plotting our first run. This was going to be a getaway purely for the sake of running. Both Scott and I haven't been getting many runs in, and we have a 5K we're meant to be training for, so in many ways this trip to Arrowhead was a way to force us to train. We decided for our first run to simply walk out the front door and get about 30 minutes of running in around the neighborhood. We headed out on Shenandoah Drive, which quickly descends sharply, and then followed Chippewa and R Road out to the 173, which runs right alongside the lake. We had wanted to run along the lake, but we didn't see any sort of trail that surrounded it. So we had to settle for roads, which ended up not being a great idea. The roads up in the mountains are narrow with no shoulders or sidewalks. So running on them is a bit treacherous as cars speed by literally inches from you. We ran along the 173 for awhile but soon got tired of avoiding close encounters with cars, so we headed up Kuffel Canyon Road. And here's where the inclines began. We slowly trudged up Kuffel Canyon until we decided to turn around and go back to the 173 in order to go back to R Road and retrace our steps back to the cabin. By now all the uphill running had begun to exhaust us. As we ran down Kuffel Canyon I misstepped and rolled my ankle. It wasn't bad, just a quick roll, but it made me be more careful about my steps the rest of the run. We finally made our way back to R and made our way up to Shenandoah. It was almost purely uphill this whole time. With one last surge of effort we made it back to the cabin. We were pretty worn out, but mainly it was muscle fatigue from all the hills. After a few minutes we realized we weren't that tired and we wanted to get more in!
After hanging out, eating dinner and watching the Oklahoma City Thunder tragically lose to the Miami Heat in Game 2 of the NBA Finals, we decided to get one more run in for the day. Scott had discovered that there actually was a running trail that paralleled the lake, but it started west of the village and it seemed to be private. So we drove out there (it was around 9pm) and checked it out. We found the trail and ran on it for about 50 feet but soon realized it wasn't going to work because there were no lights. After already rolling my ankle earlier that day I didn't quite feel like doing it again. So we came up with a plan B -- to run around the village itself. It being after 9pm the place was pretty empty. We made a big loop through all the shops and restaurants and right alongside the water -- it was a rather pleasant little run. It turned out to be just under a mile, and it somewhat satisfied our urge to run. I was feeling a little pain still from the ankle I had rolled, and also some muscle strain from a run I had gone on Wednesday night back home in Apple Valley. But I ran through the pain.
The next day we decided to get a real trail run in This is really what we had wanted to do when we came up to the mountains. To find a desolate trail that led out to the remote and tranquil forests that surround Lake Arrowhead. I remembered a trail I had hiked with my family ages ago (probably 2001 or 2002) that was north of the lake off of the 173 as it descended the mountain. So Scott drove us out there and we were able to find it. It's called the Indian Rock Trail because it leads to a site with a bunch of rocks with mortars dug into them created by the Serrano Indians to grind their acorns in. It's a pretty awesome trail as it leads out to some clearings and meadows that are rather scenic. I was excited to run this trail! So we parked and off we went. Everything was going great at first. I was leading the way and enjoying the free feeling of running through the mountainous landscape. Everything was beautiful and the conditions were great (though a little warm). The one distraction was the flies. They were relentless and all over us. But I was able to ignore this as I took in the scenery around me. And then, in an instant, everything came to a stop. We were running down a slight descent when I suddenly twisted my ankle, the same one I rolled yesterday. But this one wasn't a quick, minor roll. It was a sharp twist that sent me almost tumbling down the hill. I started falling forward but was able to keep my feet under me. I ran for about 20 feet barely maintaining my balance before I finally came to a stop, all the while my ankle throbbing with intense pain! There happened to be a wooden bench at the spot I stopped so I sat down to endure the pain and wait for it to pass. It was a horrible feeling. The pain was intense yet dull. There was nothing I could do to make it better but grit my teeth and wait. I sat on the bench rocking back and forth for a few minutes. Scott was concerned. He thought we should just head back and call it a day. But I was too disappointed that we couldn't finish the run. After the initial pain subsided I tried walking around on it, but it wasn't easy. We started to walk back, but then in a sudden fit of stubbornness I decided we should try to run a little bit more, just at a slower pace. I was able to lightly jog on it, but I had to watch my every step. One more ankle roll and I'd be done for. We went on like this for a short while, but I could tell Scott wasn't sure of it. We made it to the site of the rock mortars and spent a short time checking them out. But I finally had to concede. Scott didn't want to risk me injuring my ankle again and making matters worse. So we turned and headed back. I was able to jog the whole way back, but again very slowly. As soon as we began driving back to the cabin I could feel my ankle swelling and stiffening. When I went home later that day I iced it for the remainder of the day. But I could see it was pretty swollen and I could hardly walk on it. I began to worry that I had ruined my plans to run the 5K in two weeks. But the next day it felt a little better, and today (3 days later) it feels almost 100%. I haven't run on it since it happened, but I'm feeling a little more hopeful that this won't hamper the 5K plan. In a few more days I should be able to run again, which would give me just over a week left to train, which I think should be sufficient.
Tomorrow my wife and I will head to Newport Beach to spend a few days with my family. I'm hoping to get at least one run in while there. Last year while in Newport I ran my coolest run of the summer, a 4-miler along the beach, barefoot, from Crystal Cove to Abalone Point. It was a dream run. Hopefully I can do it again!
Run #1 (June 14, 2012) - Distance: 2.58 miles / Time: ? / Location: Route 173 and various roads south of the lake.
Run #2 (June 14, 2012) - Distance: 0.85 miles / Time: ? / Location: Lake Arrowhead Village
Run #3 (June 15, 2012) - Distance: 0.69 miles / Time: ? / Location: Indian Rock Trail north of the lake.
My two-day running retreat in Lake Arrowhead proved to be both rewarding and disastrous. I met my friend Scott at my parents' cabin in Lake Arrowhead Thursday afternoon. We unpacked and without delay began plotting our first run. This was going to be a getaway purely for the sake of running. Both Scott and I haven't been getting many runs in, and we have a 5K we're meant to be training for, so in many ways this trip to Arrowhead was a way to force us to train. We decided for our first run to simply walk out the front door and get about 30 minutes of running in around the neighborhood. We headed out on Shenandoah Drive, which quickly descends sharply, and then followed Chippewa and R Road out to the 173, which runs right alongside the lake. We had wanted to run along the lake, but we didn't see any sort of trail that surrounded it. So we had to settle for roads, which ended up not being a great idea. The roads up in the mountains are narrow with no shoulders or sidewalks. So running on them is a bit treacherous as cars speed by literally inches from you. We ran along the 173 for awhile but soon got tired of avoiding close encounters with cars, so we headed up Kuffel Canyon Road. And here's where the inclines began. We slowly trudged up Kuffel Canyon until we decided to turn around and go back to the 173 in order to go back to R Road and retrace our steps back to the cabin. By now all the uphill running had begun to exhaust us. As we ran down Kuffel Canyon I misstepped and rolled my ankle. It wasn't bad, just a quick roll, but it made me be more careful about my steps the rest of the run. We finally made our way back to R and made our way up to Shenandoah. It was almost purely uphill this whole time. With one last surge of effort we made it back to the cabin. We were pretty worn out, but mainly it was muscle fatigue from all the hills. After a few minutes we realized we weren't that tired and we wanted to get more in!
After hanging out, eating dinner and watching the Oklahoma City Thunder tragically lose to the Miami Heat in Game 2 of the NBA Finals, we decided to get one more run in for the day. Scott had discovered that there actually was a running trail that paralleled the lake, but it started west of the village and it seemed to be private. So we drove out there (it was around 9pm) and checked it out. We found the trail and ran on it for about 50 feet but soon realized it wasn't going to work because there were no lights. After already rolling my ankle earlier that day I didn't quite feel like doing it again. So we came up with a plan B -- to run around the village itself. It being after 9pm the place was pretty empty. We made a big loop through all the shops and restaurants and right alongside the water -- it was a rather pleasant little run. It turned out to be just under a mile, and it somewhat satisfied our urge to run. I was feeling a little pain still from the ankle I had rolled, and also some muscle strain from a run I had gone on Wednesday night back home in Apple Valley. But I ran through the pain.
The next day we decided to get a real trail run in This is really what we had wanted to do when we came up to the mountains. To find a desolate trail that led out to the remote and tranquil forests that surround Lake Arrowhead. I remembered a trail I had hiked with my family ages ago (probably 2001 or 2002) that was north of the lake off of the 173 as it descended the mountain. So Scott drove us out there and we were able to find it. It's called the Indian Rock Trail because it leads to a site with a bunch of rocks with mortars dug into them created by the Serrano Indians to grind their acorns in. It's a pretty awesome trail as it leads out to some clearings and meadows that are rather scenic. I was excited to run this trail! So we parked and off we went. Everything was going great at first. I was leading the way and enjoying the free feeling of running through the mountainous landscape. Everything was beautiful and the conditions were great (though a little warm). The one distraction was the flies. They were relentless and all over us. But I was able to ignore this as I took in the scenery around me. And then, in an instant, everything came to a stop. We were running down a slight descent when I suddenly twisted my ankle, the same one I rolled yesterday. But this one wasn't a quick, minor roll. It was a sharp twist that sent me almost tumbling down the hill. I started falling forward but was able to keep my feet under me. I ran for about 20 feet barely maintaining my balance before I finally came to a stop, all the while my ankle throbbing with intense pain! There happened to be a wooden bench at the spot I stopped so I sat down to endure the pain and wait for it to pass. It was a horrible feeling. The pain was intense yet dull. There was nothing I could do to make it better but grit my teeth and wait. I sat on the bench rocking back and forth for a few minutes. Scott was concerned. He thought we should just head back and call it a day. But I was too disappointed that we couldn't finish the run. After the initial pain subsided I tried walking around on it, but it wasn't easy. We started to walk back, but then in a sudden fit of stubbornness I decided we should try to run a little bit more, just at a slower pace. I was able to lightly jog on it, but I had to watch my every step. One more ankle roll and I'd be done for. We went on like this for a short while, but I could tell Scott wasn't sure of it. We made it to the site of the rock mortars and spent a short time checking them out. But I finally had to concede. Scott didn't want to risk me injuring my ankle again and making matters worse. So we turned and headed back. I was able to jog the whole way back, but again very slowly. As soon as we began driving back to the cabin I could feel my ankle swelling and stiffening. When I went home later that day I iced it for the remainder of the day. But I could see it was pretty swollen and I could hardly walk on it. I began to worry that I had ruined my plans to run the 5K in two weeks. But the next day it felt a little better, and today (3 days later) it feels almost 100%. I haven't run on it since it happened, but I'm feeling a little more hopeful that this won't hamper the 5K plan. In a few more days I should be able to run again, which would give me just over a week left to train, which I think should be sufficient.
Tomorrow my wife and I will head to Newport Beach to spend a few days with my family. I'm hoping to get at least one run in while there. Last year while in Newport I ran my coolest run of the summer, a 4-miler along the beach, barefoot, from Crystal Cove to Abalone Point. It was a dream run. Hopefully I can do it again!
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
5K Mountain Prep
Time: 30 minutes
Distance: 3.02 miles
Location: Yucca Loma to Rincon
Well, it's been too long. I last ran on June 4th. Last week was busy because it was the last week of school and I was preoccupied with wrapping things up with my classes. Plus I volunteered to chaperone grad night, which meant losing a whole night of sleep Thursday night. It took me a few days to recover from that, but once I did I got lazy and missed a couple of good opportunities to run. Tonight, though, I could not afford to miss. Tomorrow I am heading up to Lake Arrowhead to meet Scott and spend a couple of days getting some high-altitude runs in. Those runs are going to be tough and I didn't want to go up there without preparing at all. So tonight I forced myself out on a run. I also pushed myself to do 30 minutes instead of the usual 20-25 minutes. I decided to do the Yucca Loma run since it has a nice hill to climb (good training for the mountains). And I went all the way to Rincon, since lately I've been turning back sooner than that. But I used to be able to run out to Rincon and back to our house in under 30 minutes. It was not so today. I made it almost all the way. 30 minutes was up right as I was heading back down Coachella. But when I mapped out the route I was surprised to see that I actually hit the 3 mile mark (3.02 to be exact). 3 miles in 30 minutes is not exactly stellar, but I at least felt pretty good on the run. I was worried about that since it had been 9 days since my last run. But as soon as I set out my body felt great. That good feeling lasted me almost the entire run, until the very end. For some reason, as I ran the last stretch of the route my left calf muscle started tightening up, almost like I was pulling it. It forced me to slow down and adjust my form. Luckily after I stopped running the pain went away, but it was worrisome all the same. I hope it doesn't happen again tomorrow.
I'm looking forward to my next two runs. Our goal in Arrowhead is to get in some trail running. Hopefully that elevation will help to strengthen our lungs and increase our endurance. We only have just over 2 weeks to go until the 5k after all!
Distance: 3.02 miles
Location: Yucca Loma to Rincon
Well, it's been too long. I last ran on June 4th. Last week was busy because it was the last week of school and I was preoccupied with wrapping things up with my classes. Plus I volunteered to chaperone grad night, which meant losing a whole night of sleep Thursday night. It took me a few days to recover from that, but once I did I got lazy and missed a couple of good opportunities to run. Tonight, though, I could not afford to miss. Tomorrow I am heading up to Lake Arrowhead to meet Scott and spend a couple of days getting some high-altitude runs in. Those runs are going to be tough and I didn't want to go up there without preparing at all. So tonight I forced myself out on a run. I also pushed myself to do 30 minutes instead of the usual 20-25 minutes. I decided to do the Yucca Loma run since it has a nice hill to climb (good training for the mountains). And I went all the way to Rincon, since lately I've been turning back sooner than that. But I used to be able to run out to Rincon and back to our house in under 30 minutes. It was not so today. I made it almost all the way. 30 minutes was up right as I was heading back down Coachella. But when I mapped out the route I was surprised to see that I actually hit the 3 mile mark (3.02 to be exact). 3 miles in 30 minutes is not exactly stellar, but I at least felt pretty good on the run. I was worried about that since it had been 9 days since my last run. But as soon as I set out my body felt great. That good feeling lasted me almost the entire run, until the very end. For some reason, as I ran the last stretch of the route my left calf muscle started tightening up, almost like I was pulling it. It forced me to slow down and adjust my form. Luckily after I stopped running the pain went away, but it was worrisome all the same. I hope it doesn't happen again tomorrow.
I'm looking forward to my next two runs. Our goal in Arrowhead is to get in some trail running. Hopefully that elevation will help to strengthen our lungs and increase our endurance. We only have just over 2 weeks to go until the 5k after all!
Monday, June 4, 2012
Full Moon Warm Up
Time: 25 minutes
Distance: 2.55 miles
Location: Apple Valley to Sitting Bull Academy
I guess maybe the secret is lots of rest. I think we're wired to think more is always better -- the more I run the better I'll get. That principle is true in general, but when just starting, running every day (as I've just learned) can have adverse effects. All the aches and pains I was experiencing a couple weeks back are all but gone. My last run, last week on Wednesday, was great. I felt strong for the whole run with almost no leg pain. I took the next four days off (probably a couple too many), and my run tonight felt just as good, if not better!
Before going out on my run, to my delight, my wife decided to get a mile in tonight. So we ran/walked a mile around our neighborhood, which I used as a good warm-up. After this I headed out to get 25 minutes. I knew I needed at least 25 minutes because of all the time I took off. I took off on my typical route, down Apple Valley to Sitting Bull, and then headed east to Sitting Bull Academy, and then back. Last time I ran this route I got in 2.39 miles (May 18th). Today I got in 2.55. A big improvement actually. I felt strong the whole run. There was some wind to contend with, but it wasn't too bad. The moon was out and huge. It made the run less dark, which was nice because I got kind of a late start.
I'm not sure if I should continue to take this many rest days, or if maybe I've built my stamina up enough to be able to handle consecutive days again. I'll play it by ear. But at least the last two runs have been confidence-builders. I'm now not feeling quite so unsure about the 5K in 4 weeks.
Distance: 2.55 miles
Location: Apple Valley to Sitting Bull Academy
I guess maybe the secret is lots of rest. I think we're wired to think more is always better -- the more I run the better I'll get. That principle is true in general, but when just starting, running every day (as I've just learned) can have adverse effects. All the aches and pains I was experiencing a couple weeks back are all but gone. My last run, last week on Wednesday, was great. I felt strong for the whole run with almost no leg pain. I took the next four days off (probably a couple too many), and my run tonight felt just as good, if not better!
Before going out on my run, to my delight, my wife decided to get a mile in tonight. So we ran/walked a mile around our neighborhood, which I used as a good warm-up. After this I headed out to get 25 minutes. I knew I needed at least 25 minutes because of all the time I took off. I took off on my typical route, down Apple Valley to Sitting Bull, and then headed east to Sitting Bull Academy, and then back. Last time I ran this route I got in 2.39 miles (May 18th). Today I got in 2.55. A big improvement actually. I felt strong the whole run. There was some wind to contend with, but it wasn't too bad. The moon was out and huge. It made the run less dark, which was nice because I got kind of a late start.
I'm not sure if I should continue to take this many rest days, or if maybe I've built my stamina up enough to be able to handle consecutive days again. I'll play it by ear. But at least the last two runs have been confidence-builders. I'm now not feeling quite so unsure about the 5K in 4 weeks.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
The Bounce is Back!
Time: 20 minutes
Distance: 1.99 miles
Location: Apple Valley to Sitting Bull
What a relief! After weeks of painful runs and little progress, tonight's run was a huge step forward. After the first week of getting back into running this year, my legs began to really fall apart. Since about mid-May I've been running on aching knees, throbbing feet, and sore muscles up and down my lower legs. Nothing seemed to be helping ease this pain. I had a couple of good runs here and there, such as last Saturday's 18:05 2-mile, but I could never build any momentum (after Saturday's run, Monday's run was one of my worst). I rested yesterday, as it was my final night class of the year, and my frequent rest days recently maybe have something to do with tonight's improvement. It was a busy day. I went straight after work down to Rancho Cucamonga with my wife for a physical. I was told by my doctor that my blood pressure was on the high side. This made me want to continue running all the more to remedy that. After the doctor we stopped at Lucille's for a bite, then headed back up to the desert. I felt full and not too excited to go on a run. But I knew deep down I had to. In addition, there were two exhilarating playoff games on tonight that I was glued to. The Kings won an OT thriller against the Devils to take Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Finals. And the Celtics lost a close OT game to the Heat to go down 0-2 in the Eastern Finals. Because of these games I got a late start on my run. But at 9:00 I laced up and headed out.
And I was surprised by the result! As soon as I started running I felt like a different person. I actually had a bounce in my step! My legs didn't hurt, they felt strong instead. I was overjoyed by this development and focused on keeping a strong form and getting in a solid 20 minute run. To my amazement, the good feeling lasted the whole run. I never let up. My pace wasn't fast by any means, but it was consistent, and definitely a step quicker than my last run. I ran the same route as Monday and I was able to get in 1.99 miles (whereas Monday I got in only 1.8) in 20 minutes. It was a solid run, and I finished feeling great. It's been a slow, rough road lately, and I've been feeling like I could never get ahead. But today I broke through, and I sincerely hope it wasn't a one-time deal.
Distance: 1.99 miles
Location: Apple Valley to Sitting Bull
What a relief! After weeks of painful runs and little progress, tonight's run was a huge step forward. After the first week of getting back into running this year, my legs began to really fall apart. Since about mid-May I've been running on aching knees, throbbing feet, and sore muscles up and down my lower legs. Nothing seemed to be helping ease this pain. I had a couple of good runs here and there, such as last Saturday's 18:05 2-mile, but I could never build any momentum (after Saturday's run, Monday's run was one of my worst). I rested yesterday, as it was my final night class of the year, and my frequent rest days recently maybe have something to do with tonight's improvement. It was a busy day. I went straight after work down to Rancho Cucamonga with my wife for a physical. I was told by my doctor that my blood pressure was on the high side. This made me want to continue running all the more to remedy that. After the doctor we stopped at Lucille's for a bite, then headed back up to the desert. I felt full and not too excited to go on a run. But I knew deep down I had to. In addition, there were two exhilarating playoff games on tonight that I was glued to. The Kings won an OT thriller against the Devils to take Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Finals. And the Celtics lost a close OT game to the Heat to go down 0-2 in the Eastern Finals. Because of these games I got a late start on my run. But at 9:00 I laced up and headed out.
And I was surprised by the result! As soon as I started running I felt like a different person. I actually had a bounce in my step! My legs didn't hurt, they felt strong instead. I was overjoyed by this development and focused on keeping a strong form and getting in a solid 20 minute run. To my amazement, the good feeling lasted the whole run. I never let up. My pace wasn't fast by any means, but it was consistent, and definitely a step quicker than my last run. I ran the same route as Monday and I was able to get in 1.99 miles (whereas Monday I got in only 1.8) in 20 minutes. It was a solid run, and I finished feeling great. It's been a slow, rough road lately, and I've been feeling like I could never get ahead. But today I broke through, and I sincerely hope it wasn't a one-time deal.
Monday, May 28, 2012
Memorial Miles
Time: 20 minutes
Distance: 1.8 miles
Location: Apple Valley to Sitting Bull
It was an enjoyable Memorial Day weekend. I had a great run on Saturday and then yesterday my wife and I spent the day together out of town, getting camping supplies at REI and watching a Shakespeare play at the Redlands Shakespeare Festival. We got back late so I wasn't able to get a run in yesterday. But today, after a relaxing morning and afternoon, I set out on an evening run, hoping to capitalize on Saturday's progress. However, it was a bit of a setback. The pain in my legs was back. Shooting and aching pain in my feet and lower legs, even up to my knees. It probably didn't help much either that I had eaten a large Memorial Day meal a few hours earlier. I thought I had let enough time pass, but I definitely felt "full" on this run, which made it more labored.
My goal was to get in 20 minutes. I ran my frequent route down to Sitting Bull and back, but I ran it very slow. I only got in 1.8 miles, while I usually get around 1.9. The pain in my legs never really went away, but I adapted to it. I noticed it less as I went on. Overall, though, Saturday's run was way better and it's hard to tell why. I'm just going to keep on running and hopefully this is just a kink that needs to get worked out.
Distance: 1.8 miles
Location: Apple Valley to Sitting Bull
It was an enjoyable Memorial Day weekend. I had a great run on Saturday and then yesterday my wife and I spent the day together out of town, getting camping supplies at REI and watching a Shakespeare play at the Redlands Shakespeare Festival. We got back late so I wasn't able to get a run in yesterday. But today, after a relaxing morning and afternoon, I set out on an evening run, hoping to capitalize on Saturday's progress. However, it was a bit of a setback. The pain in my legs was back. Shooting and aching pain in my feet and lower legs, even up to my knees. It probably didn't help much either that I had eaten a large Memorial Day meal a few hours earlier. I thought I had let enough time pass, but I definitely felt "full" on this run, which made it more labored.
My goal was to get in 20 minutes. I ran my frequent route down to Sitting Bull and back, but I ran it very slow. I only got in 1.8 miles, while I usually get around 1.9. The pain in my legs never really went away, but I adapted to it. I noticed it less as I went on. Overall, though, Saturday's run was way better and it's hard to tell why. I'm just going to keep on running and hopefully this is just a kink that needs to get worked out.
Saturday, May 26, 2012
Find Your Way Home
Distance: 2 miles
Time: 18:05
Location: Rincon to home via Yucca Loma
Tonight's run was a whole lot of things. First, it was a run I went on reluctantly after a tough couple of off days. Second, it was an unusual run in that I was dropped off at a point and had to run home from there. And third, it was a run that ended up being surprisingly good. I'll tackle these three things in order.
On Wednesday I went on a 25 minute run. It didn't go over very well. Like all my runs recently, I've been plagued with achy legs. The bones in my feet and shins have been hurting and thus not allowing me to build any sort of fluid rhythm on my runs. I constantly feel stiff and tight. It was becoming a real problem. So Thursday I decided to forgo a run and let my legs rest. Then Friday I unexpectedly did the same. I felt real guilty about not running Friday, but my legs still weren't feeling great and also my wife was bringing home pizza from my favorite pizza place and she didn't get home until around 8pm, so by then I had lost all motivation to run. But I consoled myself by thinking the more rest the better my legs would feel. So today I knew I had to run, but after two days off I wasn't feeling very excited about it. Whenever I would run in place in my house I would feel that same achy feeling in my legs. I was starting to get very discouraged, thinking my legs would never heal, that I'd never be able to be a serious runner again. I didn't know how I was going to get myself out the door for a run. Then an idea came to me. My wife announced we needed to make a trip to Target to return some items and I thought, what if on the way home my wife drop me off at a spot 2 miles from our house and I would have to run the rest of the way back?! There would be no backing out of that one! So I mapped it out and found the spot on Rincon Rd.about half a mile north of Yucca Loma. The other non-motivating factor tonight was the weather. It suddenly got cold and windy up here in the desert after weeks of intense heat. So as we were driving home from Target, it read 54 degrees on the car's temperature gauge, and the wind was sure to make it feel colder. Needless to say I wasn't anxious to get out of that car and begin my run. We drove down Rincon, though, and as soon as we reached the designated point, I opened the door and my wife drove off and I had nothing to do but run home.
The route was basic but I liked it. After a half mile on Rincon I turned right onto Yucca Loma and headed west. Normally when I run this way I have to run uphill to the top of Yucca Loma near Rincon before turning and heading back. But this time I got to skip the uphill and just run down Yucca Loma all the way home. The run ended up being great. I was worried about my achy legs, and while I was still on Rincon, they did feel pretty stiff. But surprisingly they loosened up on Yucca Loma. In fact, as I cruised downhill, they started feeling pretty good! By the time I crossed Apple Valley I was actually able to pick up my pace and as I ran down our street to our house I was at full gait, arms pumping, stride open and wide. I guess two days off actually paid off after all. I ended up with an 18:05 two mile time, which compared to my recent runs is really good. I went back and looked at my past 2 mile times and tonight's run actually ranks pretty high. To compare, my first two mile time in 2010 was 19:18 and I wasn't able to run faster than tonight's 18:05 until August 3, 2010 when I ran an 18:02! However, last year I was running 2 miles consistently in the 16s and 17s, so I still have a ways to go. But tonight was progress indeed! My legs felt better, my times were better, and it was an all-around fun and exciting run! I hit a little slump this week, but I hope that is now in the past.
Time: 18:05
Location: Rincon to home via Yucca Loma
Tonight's run was a whole lot of things. First, it was a run I went on reluctantly after a tough couple of off days. Second, it was an unusual run in that I was dropped off at a point and had to run home from there. And third, it was a run that ended up being surprisingly good. I'll tackle these three things in order.
On Wednesday I went on a 25 minute run. It didn't go over very well. Like all my runs recently, I've been plagued with achy legs. The bones in my feet and shins have been hurting and thus not allowing me to build any sort of fluid rhythm on my runs. I constantly feel stiff and tight. It was becoming a real problem. So Thursday I decided to forgo a run and let my legs rest. Then Friday I unexpectedly did the same. I felt real guilty about not running Friday, but my legs still weren't feeling great and also my wife was bringing home pizza from my favorite pizza place and she didn't get home until around 8pm, so by then I had lost all motivation to run. But I consoled myself by thinking the more rest the better my legs would feel. So today I knew I had to run, but after two days off I wasn't feeling very excited about it. Whenever I would run in place in my house I would feel that same achy feeling in my legs. I was starting to get very discouraged, thinking my legs would never heal, that I'd never be able to be a serious runner again. I didn't know how I was going to get myself out the door for a run. Then an idea came to me. My wife announced we needed to make a trip to Target to return some items and I thought, what if on the way home my wife drop me off at a spot 2 miles from our house and I would have to run the rest of the way back?! There would be no backing out of that one! So I mapped it out and found the spot on Rincon Rd.about half a mile north of Yucca Loma. The other non-motivating factor tonight was the weather. It suddenly got cold and windy up here in the desert after weeks of intense heat. So as we were driving home from Target, it read 54 degrees on the car's temperature gauge, and the wind was sure to make it feel colder. Needless to say I wasn't anxious to get out of that car and begin my run. We drove down Rincon, though, and as soon as we reached the designated point, I opened the door and my wife drove off and I had nothing to do but run home.
The route was basic but I liked it. After a half mile on Rincon I turned right onto Yucca Loma and headed west. Normally when I run this way I have to run uphill to the top of Yucca Loma near Rincon before turning and heading back. But this time I got to skip the uphill and just run down Yucca Loma all the way home. The run ended up being great. I was worried about my achy legs, and while I was still on Rincon, they did feel pretty stiff. But surprisingly they loosened up on Yucca Loma. In fact, as I cruised downhill, they started feeling pretty good! By the time I crossed Apple Valley I was actually able to pick up my pace and as I ran down our street to our house I was at full gait, arms pumping, stride open and wide. I guess two days off actually paid off after all. I ended up with an 18:05 two mile time, which compared to my recent runs is really good. I went back and looked at my past 2 mile times and tonight's run actually ranks pretty high. To compare, my first two mile time in 2010 was 19:18 and I wasn't able to run faster than tonight's 18:05 until August 3, 2010 when I ran an 18:02! However, last year I was running 2 miles consistently in the 16s and 17s, so I still have a ways to go. But tonight was progress indeed! My legs felt better, my times were better, and it was an all-around fun and exciting run! I hit a little slump this week, but I hope that is now in the past.
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Stand Still
Time: 25 minutes
Distance: 2.32 miles
Location: Yucca Loma out-and-back
Well, another run, another achy body, another night of no progress. I took yesterday off after Monday's extremely ungraceful, stiff-bodied run. The day off helped, but it wasn't enough. I definitely was not feeling 100%. As soon as I started warming up in my house I could tell some of the same achiness was there: knees, the bones in my lower leg. And when I set out I could tell it was going to be another limping run. That's not to say it was all bad. Though I wasn't 100%, I was better than Monday. After the first half mile or so, I started to loosen up (as usually happens) and I actually, for a short time, felt alright. But the fact is my legs from the knees down are too beat up right now. Too much weight is being put on them, plus they are being used heavily after months of inactivity. This is a hurdle I need to get over. My stamina has improved with each run, so I am making progress there.
I decided to run the Yucca Loma hill tonight. I went for 25 minutes, feeling that a rest day should allow me to push it a little further today. My total distance ended up being 2.32 miles, which is way better than the last time I ran this route and slightly better than the last 25 minute run I did. So I'm making progress, but it's so slow it's almost unnoticeable. I hope my legs can strengthen up so I can make some real strides!
Distance: 2.32 miles
Location: Yucca Loma out-and-back
Well, another run, another achy body, another night of no progress. I took yesterday off after Monday's extremely ungraceful, stiff-bodied run. The day off helped, but it wasn't enough. I definitely was not feeling 100%. As soon as I started warming up in my house I could tell some of the same achiness was there: knees, the bones in my lower leg. And when I set out I could tell it was going to be another limping run. That's not to say it was all bad. Though I wasn't 100%, I was better than Monday. After the first half mile or so, I started to loosen up (as usually happens) and I actually, for a short time, felt alright. But the fact is my legs from the knees down are too beat up right now. Too much weight is being put on them, plus they are being used heavily after months of inactivity. This is a hurdle I need to get over. My stamina has improved with each run, so I am making progress there.
I decided to run the Yucca Loma hill tonight. I went for 25 minutes, feeling that a rest day should allow me to push it a little further today. My total distance ended up being 2.32 miles, which is way better than the last time I ran this route and slightly better than the last 25 minute run I did. So I'm making progress, but it's so slow it's almost unnoticeable. I hope my legs can strengthen up so I can make some real strides!
Monday, May 21, 2012
Ungraceful
Time: 20 minutes
Distance: 1.87 miles
Location: Apple Valley to Sitting Bull
Tonight's run was tough. After the soreness I was feeling in my feet during yesterday's run, I figured I'd need to take it a little easier tonight. I wavered back and forth between lowering the time to 20 minutes or just doing a single mile. In the end, I decided I need distance training more than anything, and running one mile, even if it takes me 9:00, just isn't enough of an endurance workout. But not only my feet but my lower legs were bothering me today. My knees felt achy, and the soreness I felt yesterday in my ankles had moved up to my calves. As soon as I started stretching I knew it wasn't going to be an easy night.
I set out to run down to Sitting Bull and back, a good, simple route. As soon as I began my run, though, those aches and pains kicked in. My legs felt stiff and I could barely get an open stride going. I felt like I was power walking more than running (ugh). After about half a mile things got a little better. The run down Apple Valley Rd. was decent, as my legs loosened up a bit and I was able to run a little more smoothly. But the aches came back intermittently. I clumsily made my way back to the house. When 20 minutes was up I had covered 1.87 miles, which was definitely slower than I've been averaging. Tomorrow is a rest day and I can only hope it will be enough. I want to get back into it on Wednesday, but the way I felt tonight, I don't know if one day off will be enough. It's going to have to work, though.
Distance: 1.87 miles
Location: Apple Valley to Sitting Bull
Tonight's run was tough. After the soreness I was feeling in my feet during yesterday's run, I figured I'd need to take it a little easier tonight. I wavered back and forth between lowering the time to 20 minutes or just doing a single mile. In the end, I decided I need distance training more than anything, and running one mile, even if it takes me 9:00, just isn't enough of an endurance workout. But not only my feet but my lower legs were bothering me today. My knees felt achy, and the soreness I felt yesterday in my ankles had moved up to my calves. As soon as I started stretching I knew it wasn't going to be an easy night.
I set out to run down to Sitting Bull and back, a good, simple route. As soon as I began my run, though, those aches and pains kicked in. My legs felt stiff and I could barely get an open stride going. I felt like I was power walking more than running (ugh). After about half a mile things got a little better. The run down Apple Valley Rd. was decent, as my legs loosened up a bit and I was able to run a little more smoothly. But the aches came back intermittently. I clumsily made my way back to the house. When 20 minutes was up I had covered 1.87 miles, which was definitely slower than I've been averaging. Tomorrow is a rest day and I can only hope it will be enough. I want to get back into it on Wednesday, but the way I felt tonight, I don't know if one day off will be enough. It's going to have to work, though.
Sunday, May 20, 2012
Lugging Around
Time: 25 minutes
Distance: 2.31 miles
Location: Ottawa-River-Yucca Loma-Apple Valley Loop
Yesterday my Uncle Joey got married down in Arcadia. It was a fun-filled day, and Deborah and I ended up staying the night at my parents' house. I brought my running shoes just in case we got back with a little time to spare for the night, but that didn't happen. Today, we left my parents' and I forgot my shoes, so for my run tonight I was forced to use my trail runners, which actually ended up being a lot better than I expected. The trail runners, which I've only ever used on hikes, felt a lot more cushioned than my regular running shoes (because they are newer), and they had a good "bounce" to them. I'll have to use them for the rest of the week. And I may want to consider getting new running shoes before the 5K because mine are fast wearing out.
I felt like I had a lot of energy tonight! I set out to run for 25 minutes at around 8:30pm after a very warm day. (It was an interesting evening as there was a partial eclipse that we got to experience before the sun went down!). But my energy level couldn't save the day. Right away my feet, which had bothered me on my Friday run, were hurting. The muscles around my ankles are sore and tight, and I'm convinced it's because I'm weighing too much right now (almost 180 lbs). It just feels like they are doing too much work. I tried different methods: running on toes, running on heels, alternating heels and toes; but nothing worked. I just had to endure the pain. At first I didn't know if I'd be able to sustain 25 minutes, but my will kept me going. I warmed up a little bit. By the time I reached about 1.5 miles I felt slightly better. But without a doubt my feet are my trouble area right now. I know what I need to do (drop a good 20 lbs). But on a positive note, everything else felt great, especially my stamina. My breathing is getting easier and easier. I was even able to get a kick going at the end, so the other muscles in my legs are hanging in there. I totaled 2.31 miles tonight, which was less than Friday's run, but more than the first time I ran for 25 minutes on May 14. My pace is still too slow. But I again must credit my weight.
I took a new route tonight. It was partially the same route I ran on May 9 but in the opposite direction with more distance added on. I started out heading down to Ottawa, hung a right and made my way up to Yucca Loma via Kasanka Trail. It was dark and quiet along Kasanka as I ran alongside the Mojave River to my left. When I got to Yucca Loma I took a right and headed towards Apple Valley. My original plan was to head back to my house via Cochise, but I realized I would be back before the 25 minutes was up. So I extended the run, heading out to Apple Valley and then down to Powhatan, made a right then a left, then followed Cochise around to Cuyamaca, where I stopped. It was a big loop and in the end was actually a pretty convenient route as it never took me too far from my house at any point.
Today marks two weeks since I started my running up again for 2012. Which means I have six weeks left till the 5K. Things have progressed, but not by much. I think the next thing I really need to focus on is dropping some pounds and letting my feet heal. Until then, though, I need to keep up my mileage. I have only three weeks left of work before summer break. At that point I hope to crank my training up a few notches!
Distance: 2.31 miles
Location: Ottawa-River-Yucca Loma-Apple Valley Loop
Yesterday my Uncle Joey got married down in Arcadia. It was a fun-filled day, and Deborah and I ended up staying the night at my parents' house. I brought my running shoes just in case we got back with a little time to spare for the night, but that didn't happen. Today, we left my parents' and I forgot my shoes, so for my run tonight I was forced to use my trail runners, which actually ended up being a lot better than I expected. The trail runners, which I've only ever used on hikes, felt a lot more cushioned than my regular running shoes (because they are newer), and they had a good "bounce" to them. I'll have to use them for the rest of the week. And I may want to consider getting new running shoes before the 5K because mine are fast wearing out.
I felt like I had a lot of energy tonight! I set out to run for 25 minutes at around 8:30pm after a very warm day. (It was an interesting evening as there was a partial eclipse that we got to experience before the sun went down!). But my energy level couldn't save the day. Right away my feet, which had bothered me on my Friday run, were hurting. The muscles around my ankles are sore and tight, and I'm convinced it's because I'm weighing too much right now (almost 180 lbs). It just feels like they are doing too much work. I tried different methods: running on toes, running on heels, alternating heels and toes; but nothing worked. I just had to endure the pain. At first I didn't know if I'd be able to sustain 25 minutes, but my will kept me going. I warmed up a little bit. By the time I reached about 1.5 miles I felt slightly better. But without a doubt my feet are my trouble area right now. I know what I need to do (drop a good 20 lbs). But on a positive note, everything else felt great, especially my stamina. My breathing is getting easier and easier. I was even able to get a kick going at the end, so the other muscles in my legs are hanging in there. I totaled 2.31 miles tonight, which was less than Friday's run, but more than the first time I ran for 25 minutes on May 14. My pace is still too slow. But I again must credit my weight.
I took a new route tonight. It was partially the same route I ran on May 9 but in the opposite direction with more distance added on. I started out heading down to Ottawa, hung a right and made my way up to Yucca Loma via Kasanka Trail. It was dark and quiet along Kasanka as I ran alongside the Mojave River to my left. When I got to Yucca Loma I took a right and headed towards Apple Valley. My original plan was to head back to my house via Cochise, but I realized I would be back before the 25 minutes was up. So I extended the run, heading out to Apple Valley and then down to Powhatan, made a right then a left, then followed Cochise around to Cuyamaca, where I stopped. It was a big loop and in the end was actually a pretty convenient route as it never took me too far from my house at any point.
Today marks two weeks since I started my running up again for 2012. Which means I have six weeks left till the 5K. Things have progressed, but not by much. I think the next thing I really need to focus on is dropping some pounds and letting my feet heal. Until then, though, I need to keep up my mileage. I have only three weeks left of work before summer break. At that point I hope to crank my training up a few notches!
Friday, May 18, 2012
A Tale of Three Runs
Tuesday, May 15, 2012:
Time: 34 minutes
Distance: 3.18 miles
Location: Yucca Loma out-and-back
Wednesday, May 16, 2012:
Distance: 1 mile
Time: 8:46
Location: Ottawa and back
Friday, May 18, 2012:
Time: 25 minutes
Distance: 2.39 miles
Location: Apple Valley to Sitting Bull Academy
It was a busy week and I was lucky to be able to get in four runs, though I didn't have enough time to blog about them. Tuesday's run was unexpected. I normally don't run Tuesday nights because I teach a night class and don't get home till late. But my friend Scott just so happened to be driving home from Las Vegas and suggested we meet up and go for a run, since he'd be driving right by Apple Valley, and we're both in 5K training mode. I hadn't prepared mentally or physically for a run, but I knew that I needed all the training I could get, so I jumped at the chance to run with Scott. He got to our house late, around 9:30pm, so it would have to be a late night run. We set out towards Yucca Loma to run the same route I had run the previous day. It was quiet and the conditions were great. We plugged along up Yucca Loma as it ascends towards the east. Our pace was a bit faster than I had run it Monday, so when we got to the top of the hill we both decided to stop and walk for a bit. We turned before getting to Cronese Rd. and began running back down Yucca Loma. I felt better now. It was a struggle getting up that hill, but running down was nice and smooth. By the time we reached Apple Valley Rd., though, my feet were killing me. I think I may be in need of new running shoes! When we got back to my neighborhood Scott suggested we keep going to make it an even 3 miles. So we ran past Cochise Rd. and continued on Yucca Loma towards the river all the way to Havasu Rd. We hung a left and from here the route basically followed a usual mile route I do. When we got back to our street, Scott decided to kick it in. At first I was just going to let him go, since I was feeling pretty beat. But the competitor in me took over and I mustered the best kick I could. It wasn't fast but it kept me somewhat close to Scott. In the end we had run over 3 miles (3.18), about the length of a 5K. And it had taken us 34:00. Both the distance and the time were the most I'd run in a very long time. I'm glad I got this run in, but it took a lot out of me. All the same, it was a nice change of pace to have a running partner out there.
On Wednesday I was feeling so beat from Tuesday's run that I opted for just one mile. I decided to run down to Ottawa, where the week before I had run a 9:09. My mile on a different route last week got me an 8:33, so I wanted to keep that progress going. Unfortunately I came in somewhere in between. I ran an 8:46, much better than the 9:09, but still not very good. I think the Ottawa route is a little tougher because there is a stretch on the second half that is uphill. My times are pretty bad right now, but what's most important is not giving up and just remembering that the longer I keep up with my running the more my times will come down.
Friday's (tonight's) run was a pretty good one, except for one thing. My breathing and overall stamina were much better tonight, but my feet and ankles were killing! I went out for 25 minutes, and right away I felt stronger and able to sustain a pace longer. But it didn't take long before my feet started to ache. I ran down Apple Valley to Sitting Bull, and right away my feet were throbbing. I credit my weight. Last year at this time I weighed about 10 pounds less, and I noticed the difference! I can recall some runs a year ago that felt so much easier and lighter, like I was bouncing on air. But tonight each step was labored. I could feel the stress I was putting on my feet and ankles and it wasn't good. The only remedy, really, is to lose weight. Looks like I have another challenge on my plate. As far as the run and where I went, since I was running for 25 minutes (longer than I usually do on this route) I decided to hang a left at Sitting Bull rather than turn around. I ran for a little ways along Sitting Bull (which has a nice horse trail that reminded me of my old runs in Rancho Cucamonga). I ran to the school on Sitting Bull and then headed back. All in all I got in 2.39 miles, just slightly more than Monday for the same amount of time. Progress.
Time: 34 minutes
Distance: 3.18 miles
Location: Yucca Loma out-and-back
Wednesday, May 16, 2012:
Distance: 1 mile
Time: 8:46
Location: Ottawa and back
Friday, May 18, 2012:
Time: 25 minutes
Distance: 2.39 miles
Location: Apple Valley to Sitting Bull Academy
It was a busy week and I was lucky to be able to get in four runs, though I didn't have enough time to blog about them. Tuesday's run was unexpected. I normally don't run Tuesday nights because I teach a night class and don't get home till late. But my friend Scott just so happened to be driving home from Las Vegas and suggested we meet up and go for a run, since he'd be driving right by Apple Valley, and we're both in 5K training mode. I hadn't prepared mentally or physically for a run, but I knew that I needed all the training I could get, so I jumped at the chance to run with Scott. He got to our house late, around 9:30pm, so it would have to be a late night run. We set out towards Yucca Loma to run the same route I had run the previous day. It was quiet and the conditions were great. We plugged along up Yucca Loma as it ascends towards the east. Our pace was a bit faster than I had run it Monday, so when we got to the top of the hill we both decided to stop and walk for a bit. We turned before getting to Cronese Rd. and began running back down Yucca Loma. I felt better now. It was a struggle getting up that hill, but running down was nice and smooth. By the time we reached Apple Valley Rd., though, my feet were killing me. I think I may be in need of new running shoes! When we got back to my neighborhood Scott suggested we keep going to make it an even 3 miles. So we ran past Cochise Rd. and continued on Yucca Loma towards the river all the way to Havasu Rd. We hung a left and from here the route basically followed a usual mile route I do. When we got back to our street, Scott decided to kick it in. At first I was just going to let him go, since I was feeling pretty beat. But the competitor in me took over and I mustered the best kick I could. It wasn't fast but it kept me somewhat close to Scott. In the end we had run over 3 miles (3.18), about the length of a 5K. And it had taken us 34:00. Both the distance and the time were the most I'd run in a very long time. I'm glad I got this run in, but it took a lot out of me. All the same, it was a nice change of pace to have a running partner out there.
On Wednesday I was feeling so beat from Tuesday's run that I opted for just one mile. I decided to run down to Ottawa, where the week before I had run a 9:09. My mile on a different route last week got me an 8:33, so I wanted to keep that progress going. Unfortunately I came in somewhere in between. I ran an 8:46, much better than the 9:09, but still not very good. I think the Ottawa route is a little tougher because there is a stretch on the second half that is uphill. My times are pretty bad right now, but what's most important is not giving up and just remembering that the longer I keep up with my running the more my times will come down.
Friday's (tonight's) run was a pretty good one, except for one thing. My breathing and overall stamina were much better tonight, but my feet and ankles were killing! I went out for 25 minutes, and right away I felt stronger and able to sustain a pace longer. But it didn't take long before my feet started to ache. I ran down Apple Valley to Sitting Bull, and right away my feet were throbbing. I credit my weight. Last year at this time I weighed about 10 pounds less, and I noticed the difference! I can recall some runs a year ago that felt so much easier and lighter, like I was bouncing on air. But tonight each step was labored. I could feel the stress I was putting on my feet and ankles and it wasn't good. The only remedy, really, is to lose weight. Looks like I have another challenge on my plate. As far as the run and where I went, since I was running for 25 minutes (longer than I usually do on this route) I decided to hang a left at Sitting Bull rather than turn around. I ran for a little ways along Sitting Bull (which has a nice horse trail that reminded me of my old runs in Rancho Cucamonga). I ran to the school on Sitting Bull and then headed back. All in all I got in 2.39 miles, just slightly more than Monday for the same amount of time. Progress.
Monday, May 14, 2012
Just a Little More
Time: 25 minutes
Distance: 2.26 miles
Location: Yucca Loma to Cronese
After a busy weekend during which I had not a minute's opportunity to run, tonight was a much-needed workout. My legs felt rested after two days off and I felt that I needed to push myself just a little bit more. I decided to do a timed run and to add on 5 more minutes for a total of 25 minutes. I also decided to tackle a tougher route: an out-and-back along Yucca Loma Rd. Last summer I ran this route a couple of times, taking it out to Rincon Rd. and back for a total of 3 miles. Tonight I was not quite in the same amount of shape as last summer and so it was a tough run. The first part of this route is a gradual uphill that culminates with a sharp incline to the top of a hill. Getting up that thing was tough, but I made it. Once on top I decided to turn back at Cronese Rd. rather than Rincon because I had already been running for about 15:00 at that point, so I needed to start making my way back. The way back is my favorite part. Yucca Loma drops down toward Apple Valley Rd. and the entire high desert opens up before you! Since I didn't set out till after 8:30pm, it was dark and the valley was glowing in lights! You almost forget that you're running. By the time I reached Apple Valley I was definitely hitting my end. 25:00 was up by the time I got to my neighborhood, but I still had another quarter mile or so to walk home (which ended up being a nice cool down). All in all a good run, though it was tough going at times, and I can definitely tell I have a few more weeks to go before I can say I'm "in shape."
As an end note, I talked to my friend Scott today (who I'll be running the Majove Narrows 5k with), and we decided to set up a time to head up to Lake Arrowhead to train in altitude. Since the elevation here in the high desert is around 3,000 feet (and Scott lives at around 1,500 feet elevation), we decided what better way to prepare than to go up even higher, up into the mountains, to get used to that thin air, get in a run or two, and since my parents have a cabin up there, it will work out perfectly! During the summer of 2010 I tried to go running up in Arrowhead when Deborah and I stayed there, but I never got around to it. So I'm definitely looking forward to doing this.
Distance: 2.26 miles
Location: Yucca Loma to Cronese
After a busy weekend during which I had not a minute's opportunity to run, tonight was a much-needed workout. My legs felt rested after two days off and I felt that I needed to push myself just a little bit more. I decided to do a timed run and to add on 5 more minutes for a total of 25 minutes. I also decided to tackle a tougher route: an out-and-back along Yucca Loma Rd. Last summer I ran this route a couple of times, taking it out to Rincon Rd. and back for a total of 3 miles. Tonight I was not quite in the same amount of shape as last summer and so it was a tough run. The first part of this route is a gradual uphill that culminates with a sharp incline to the top of a hill. Getting up that thing was tough, but I made it. Once on top I decided to turn back at Cronese Rd. rather than Rincon because I had already been running for about 15:00 at that point, so I needed to start making my way back. The way back is my favorite part. Yucca Loma drops down toward Apple Valley Rd. and the entire high desert opens up before you! Since I didn't set out till after 8:30pm, it was dark and the valley was glowing in lights! You almost forget that you're running. By the time I reached Apple Valley I was definitely hitting my end. 25:00 was up by the time I got to my neighborhood, but I still had another quarter mile or so to walk home (which ended up being a nice cool down). All in all a good run, though it was tough going at times, and I can definitely tell I have a few more weeks to go before I can say I'm "in shape."
As an end note, I talked to my friend Scott today (who I'll be running the Majove Narrows 5k with), and we decided to set up a time to head up to Lake Arrowhead to train in altitude. Since the elevation here in the high desert is around 3,000 feet (and Scott lives at around 1,500 feet elevation), we decided what better way to prepare than to go up even higher, up into the mountains, to get used to that thin air, get in a run or two, and since my parents have a cabin up there, it will work out perfectly! During the summer of 2010 I tried to go running up in Arrowhead when Deborah and I stayed there, but I never got around to it. So I'm definitely looking forward to doing this.
Friday, May 11, 2012
A Sloppy Mile
Distance: 1 mile
Time: 8:33
Location: Cronese to Rio Vista School
I was glad I ran tonight, but it was a struggle to get out the door. My mistake tonight was eating a large dinner (a Chipotle burrito) only two hours prior to my run. I got a veggie burrito, so I figured the lack of meat would make it lighter and I would digest it quicker, but it sat pretty heavy on me for those whole two hours. I didn't feel somewhat ready to run until about 8:30pm, and by then it was pretty dark out. After stretching it was about 8:45 and I was losing motivation fast. My original plan was to do another 20-minute run, but I was feeling so sluggish and full from the burrito that I couldn't bring myself to do a longer run, so I opted for a one mile timed run. I was hesitant to do this, too, though, because one mile runs tend to be faster and I wasn't sure I could run with a fast pace tonight. But I went for it anyway. I did have a fear in the back of my mind that I wouldn't break 10:00 (the same fear I had on Monday), but thankfully it didn't come to that. In fact, my mile time was much faster than Monday's. I ran a 9:09 on Monday on very sore legs, and tonight I ran an 8:33 on a very full stomach. Makes me wonder what I'll be able to run when I'm feeling in perfect running condition! I'm back to where I was in early May last year -- mid 8's. And last year I pretty quickly got down into the high 7's. All in all it was a good run with a time I can be pleased with for now. The important thing is getting my runs in right now. I need to build up as much stamina as possible before June 30th!
The route I ran tonight was up my street to Cronese and then west towards Havasu where there is an elementary school called Rio Vista. This is the route I would run with my wife during the autumn and winter of last year and early this year. I also ran this route once during the dead of winter in leg warmers. It's a nice one mile run, with a little more variety than my go-to route back at the Powhatan house.
Time: 8:33
Location: Cronese to Rio Vista School
I was glad I ran tonight, but it was a struggle to get out the door. My mistake tonight was eating a large dinner (a Chipotle burrito) only two hours prior to my run. I got a veggie burrito, so I figured the lack of meat would make it lighter and I would digest it quicker, but it sat pretty heavy on me for those whole two hours. I didn't feel somewhat ready to run until about 8:30pm, and by then it was pretty dark out. After stretching it was about 8:45 and I was losing motivation fast. My original plan was to do another 20-minute run, but I was feeling so sluggish and full from the burrito that I couldn't bring myself to do a longer run, so I opted for a one mile timed run. I was hesitant to do this, too, though, because one mile runs tend to be faster and I wasn't sure I could run with a fast pace tonight. But I went for it anyway. I did have a fear in the back of my mind that I wouldn't break 10:00 (the same fear I had on Monday), but thankfully it didn't come to that. In fact, my mile time was much faster than Monday's. I ran a 9:09 on Monday on very sore legs, and tonight I ran an 8:33 on a very full stomach. Makes me wonder what I'll be able to run when I'm feeling in perfect running condition! I'm back to where I was in early May last year -- mid 8's. And last year I pretty quickly got down into the high 7's. All in all it was a good run with a time I can be pleased with for now. The important thing is getting my runs in right now. I need to build up as much stamina as possible before June 30th!
The route I ran tonight was up my street to Cronese and then west towards Havasu where there is an elementary school called Rio Vista. This is the route I would run with my wife during the autumn and winter of last year and early this year. I also ran this route once during the dead of winter in leg warmers. It's a nice one mile run, with a little more variety than my go-to route back at the Powhatan house.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Goodbye Soreness
Time: 20 minutes
Distance: 1.93 miles
Location: Apple Valley to Sitting Bull
Amazingly, the soreness in my legs was all but gone by the time I went on my run tonight. My legs were severely sore when I went on a 20-minute run last night, and I figured by running on sore legs I was only going to make it worse tonight. But as I began stretching before my run I realized that I was feeling pretty good. In fact, I felt good for the first time this week since starting my running up again. I set off for another 20-minute run and I immediately felt stronger and able to keep a better form. I headed south to run the Sitting Bull out-and-back route. My pace wasn't much quicker than the other runs this week, but I felt more comfortable the whole time. My breathing was better and my legs felt better. It's amazing how only a few days of running can make such a difference. This is only my fourth run this week, and I already feel vast improvement. I went out a little later tonight than I have been--about 8:30. It was a nice, even temperature with a slight breeze in the air. Another pleasant night. I plan on running tomorrow night, but then I more than likely won't be able to get a run in this weekend. A couple days of rest, though, would probably be pretty beneficial. Things are going well so far--I don't want to push it too hard and end up injured. Looking back at past training periods, there is usually the initial progression of improvement followed by a period of breaking down before recovering and getting back to improving. I want to try to avoid the "breakdown." As an end note, another good thing about tonight's run is I was able to get in a little more distance during those 20 minutes. I went from Sunday's 1.89 miles to 1.93. Not a big jump, but it's something.
Distance: 1.93 miles
Location: Apple Valley to Sitting Bull
Amazingly, the soreness in my legs was all but gone by the time I went on my run tonight. My legs were severely sore when I went on a 20-minute run last night, and I figured by running on sore legs I was only going to make it worse tonight. But as I began stretching before my run I realized that I was feeling pretty good. In fact, I felt good for the first time this week since starting my running up again. I set off for another 20-minute run and I immediately felt stronger and able to keep a better form. I headed south to run the Sitting Bull out-and-back route. My pace wasn't much quicker than the other runs this week, but I felt more comfortable the whole time. My breathing was better and my legs felt better. It's amazing how only a few days of running can make such a difference. This is only my fourth run this week, and I already feel vast improvement. I went out a little later tonight than I have been--about 8:30. It was a nice, even temperature with a slight breeze in the air. Another pleasant night. I plan on running tomorrow night, but then I more than likely won't be able to get a run in this weekend. A couple days of rest, though, would probably be pretty beneficial. Things are going well so far--I don't want to push it too hard and end up injured. Looking back at past training periods, there is usually the initial progression of improvement followed by a period of breaking down before recovering and getting back to improving. I want to try to avoid the "breakdown." As an end note, another good thing about tonight's run is I was able to get in a little more distance during those 20 minutes. I went from Sunday's 1.89 miles to 1.93. Not a big jump, but it's something.
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
The Neighborhood
Time: 20 minutes
Distance: 1.85 miles
Location: Yucca Loma-Mojave River-Ottawa Loop
One day off didn't do too much. Sunday and Monday were my first two runs in many months, and they left me as sore as I've ever been! Yesterday I could hardly walk! I was hoping today I would be feeling great and ready for run #3 this week, but, though I felt better than yesterday, the soreness was still there (especially around my ankles) and I was still feeling stiff. However, with the Mojave Narrows 5K just over 50 days away, I didn't want to miss a single run. And so I forced myself out the door on a warm May night. It turned out to be an okay run. I ran for 20 minutes, just like on Sunday, but I came up with a slightly shorter distance, 1.85 miles opposed to Sunday's 1.89. I credit this to the soreness. My breathing and stamina felt slightly better than earlier in the week. As far as the route, since this was a 20-minute run, I simply meandered and made up a route on the way. I made my way up to Yucca Loma Rd., followed that west towards the river, turned left down Kasanka Trail, followed that all the way down to Havasu, turned right, ran along Havasu to Ivanpah, turned right again, then left on Ottawa and back up to our house. The best part of this run was along Kasanka Trail. This north-south street parallels the Mojave River. It is lined with houses on the east side and nothing on the west side, so all you see is the river and the city beyond, which tonight was brightly lit in the clear night air. It was a peaceful stretch. But the whole run was really enjoyable. My wife and I have lived in this neighborhood now for over 10 months and sometimes I feel like I still haven't explored it enough. Running it tonight I really got a sense of its calm, clean, peaceful vibe. I think we ended up in a great place and I'm definitely thankful to have a neighborhood I can run around, even late at night. Those warm, tranquil nights are some of the best times for running. Tonight was one of them.
Distance: 1.85 miles
Location: Yucca Loma-Mojave River-Ottawa Loop
One day off didn't do too much. Sunday and Monday were my first two runs in many months, and they left me as sore as I've ever been! Yesterday I could hardly walk! I was hoping today I would be feeling great and ready for run #3 this week, but, though I felt better than yesterday, the soreness was still there (especially around my ankles) and I was still feeling stiff. However, with the Mojave Narrows 5K just over 50 days away, I didn't want to miss a single run. And so I forced myself out the door on a warm May night. It turned out to be an okay run. I ran for 20 minutes, just like on Sunday, but I came up with a slightly shorter distance, 1.85 miles opposed to Sunday's 1.89. I credit this to the soreness. My breathing and stamina felt slightly better than earlier in the week. As far as the route, since this was a 20-minute run, I simply meandered and made up a route on the way. I made my way up to Yucca Loma Rd., followed that west towards the river, turned left down Kasanka Trail, followed that all the way down to Havasu, turned right, ran along Havasu to Ivanpah, turned right again, then left on Ottawa and back up to our house. The best part of this run was along Kasanka Trail. This north-south street parallels the Mojave River. It is lined with houses on the east side and nothing on the west side, so all you see is the river and the city beyond, which tonight was brightly lit in the clear night air. It was a peaceful stretch. But the whole run was really enjoyable. My wife and I have lived in this neighborhood now for over 10 months and sometimes I feel like I still haven't explored it enough. Running it tonight I really got a sense of its calm, clean, peaceful vibe. I think we ended up in a great place and I'm definitely thankful to have a neighborhood I can run around, even late at night. Those warm, tranquil nights are some of the best times for running. Tonight was one of them.
Monday, May 7, 2012
Back to the Mile
Distance: 1 mile
Time: 9:09
Location: To Apple Valley via Ottawa and Back
Even though I said in my last post that I would now focus more on running for a specific amount of time (rather than for a specific distance), I was so sore after yesterday's run that I opted for something short today. My legs were throbbing after yesterday's 20 minute run (my first in 9 months). I was surprised I was even able to get myself out the door tonight! Tomorrow is going to be a rest day, so I decided just to go for it tonight and time my mile. It's been a long time since I ran a timed mile! In fact, the last time was June 27th, 2011 back at our rental house on Powhatan Rd. I ran a 7:50 that day. I knew tonight's times wouldn't be anywhere near that, since I'm just barely getting back into it. Plus, with how sore my legs were, I started to worry that I'd record my worst mile ever! I would be happy with anything under 10:00. (The slowest mile I've ever recorded was 9:36 on May 24th, 2010). Well, I did give myself a little scare with how bad I was feeling on the run, but I ended up with a 9:09. I was happy with it, all things considered. Even though I hadn't logged a +9:00 mile since July 10th, 2010 when I ran 9:04, I can't remember going on a run feeling this sore in years! I did toy with the idea of resting tonight, but now that I'm officially registered for the Mojave Narrows 5K, I felt I needed to run tonight. I can't slack off anymore! Every opportunity I get to run, I'm taking it. And though I ran slow tonight, at least I ran. These times will be a thing of the past soon enough.
As far as the run itself, aside from my physical performance, it was rather enjoyable. I decided to run back out the same route as yesterday. It's a half mile to get out to Apple Valley Rd., so I just turned around there and headed back. The temperature was perfect, a little breeze, and nice and quiet with hardly a car or person in sight. Can't wait for the soreness to be gone so I can fully appreciate these peaceful runs.
Time: 9:09
Location: To Apple Valley via Ottawa and Back
Even though I said in my last post that I would now focus more on running for a specific amount of time (rather than for a specific distance), I was so sore after yesterday's run that I opted for something short today. My legs were throbbing after yesterday's 20 minute run (my first in 9 months). I was surprised I was even able to get myself out the door tonight! Tomorrow is going to be a rest day, so I decided just to go for it tonight and time my mile. It's been a long time since I ran a timed mile! In fact, the last time was June 27th, 2011 back at our rental house on Powhatan Rd. I ran a 7:50 that day. I knew tonight's times wouldn't be anywhere near that, since I'm just barely getting back into it. Plus, with how sore my legs were, I started to worry that I'd record my worst mile ever! I would be happy with anything under 10:00. (The slowest mile I've ever recorded was 9:36 on May 24th, 2010). Well, I did give myself a little scare with how bad I was feeling on the run, but I ended up with a 9:09. I was happy with it, all things considered. Even though I hadn't logged a +9:00 mile since July 10th, 2010 when I ran 9:04, I can't remember going on a run feeling this sore in years! I did toy with the idea of resting tonight, but now that I'm officially registered for the Mojave Narrows 5K, I felt I needed to run tonight. I can't slack off anymore! Every opportunity I get to run, I'm taking it. And though I ran slow tonight, at least I ran. These times will be a thing of the past soon enough.
As far as the run itself, aside from my physical performance, it was rather enjoyable. I decided to run back out the same route as yesterday. It's a half mile to get out to Apple Valley Rd., so I just turned around there and headed back. The temperature was perfect, a little breeze, and nice and quiet with hardly a car or person in sight. Can't wait for the soreness to be gone so I can fully appreciate these peaceful runs.
Sunday, May 6, 2012
2012 Commences
Time: 20 minutes
Distance: 1.89 miles
Location: Apple Valley to Sitting Bull
It's a late start, but I finally began running again after a 9-month hiatus. Last year, after a typically inactive winter, I was able to get my running going in April. This year starting it up again proved to be a little more difficult. My run tonight actually may not have even happened had it not been for my friend Scott suddenly getting involved in 5Ks. He asked if I wanted to run in a 5K in Temecula this weekend, but I knew I wasn't ready. However, just the invitation got something going in me, and I decided to look for upcoming 5Ks I could prepare for. I ended up finding one right up here in the desert on June 30th, the Mojave Narrows 5K, and I asked Scott if he'd be interested. He said yes and I knew it was go time! June 30th is about 8 weeks away, which should be plenty of time to prepare. So I decided to stop the procrastinating and begin training today.
The first thing I decided to do was alter my training regimen. Usually I go for distance and try to better my time for that distance. But this constant pressure to better my time can work against me. So I decided to flip it and focus on time and leave the distance out of it more or less. Since my main goal at this 5K and future 5Ks and 10Ks and even marathons is simply to run the whole thing, I decided to set a time goal and slowly increase that time so that by the end of 8 weeks I should be able to easily run 3 miles without much difficulty. I decided on 20 minutes as a good starting time. Where I went didn't really matter. So I set out from my house and ended up heading south toward Ottawa Rd and out to Apple Valley Rd. From here I headed south toward Sitting Bull Rd. It was a route I ran a couple of times last summer. I like it because the majority of the run is along a nicely paved trail away from the neighborhood. Overall the run was good. Not having run in 9 months I didn't even know if I'd be able to sustain 20 minutes! But I was able to run the whole time, albeit very slowly. I felt good for the first 5 minutes, then a small cramp set in. For the last 10 minutes I was feeling some knee pain and by the end I was almost running with a limp. But, again, 9 months off will do that to you! I only made it 1.89 miles in those 20 minutes (I ran 2 miles on that same route on July 10, 2011 in 17:56). Right now a 5K would easily take me more than 30 minutes, so I have my work cut out for me. But I'm confident I'll be able to get my times down and my stamina up in time. I'm just pumped that I've finally kickstarted my training! This means summer is near. Vacation time!
Distance: 1.89 miles
Location: Apple Valley to Sitting Bull
It's a late start, but I finally began running again after a 9-month hiatus. Last year, after a typically inactive winter, I was able to get my running going in April. This year starting it up again proved to be a little more difficult. My run tonight actually may not have even happened had it not been for my friend Scott suddenly getting involved in 5Ks. He asked if I wanted to run in a 5K in Temecula this weekend, but I knew I wasn't ready. However, just the invitation got something going in me, and I decided to look for upcoming 5Ks I could prepare for. I ended up finding one right up here in the desert on June 30th, the Mojave Narrows 5K, and I asked Scott if he'd be interested. He said yes and I knew it was go time! June 30th is about 8 weeks away, which should be plenty of time to prepare. So I decided to stop the procrastinating and begin training today.
The first thing I decided to do was alter my training regimen. Usually I go for distance and try to better my time for that distance. But this constant pressure to better my time can work against me. So I decided to flip it and focus on time and leave the distance out of it more or less. Since my main goal at this 5K and future 5Ks and 10Ks and even marathons is simply to run the whole thing, I decided to set a time goal and slowly increase that time so that by the end of 8 weeks I should be able to easily run 3 miles without much difficulty. I decided on 20 minutes as a good starting time. Where I went didn't really matter. So I set out from my house and ended up heading south toward Ottawa Rd and out to Apple Valley Rd. From here I headed south toward Sitting Bull Rd. It was a route I ran a couple of times last summer. I like it because the majority of the run is along a nicely paved trail away from the neighborhood. Overall the run was good. Not having run in 9 months I didn't even know if I'd be able to sustain 20 minutes! But I was able to run the whole time, albeit very slowly. I felt good for the first 5 minutes, then a small cramp set in. For the last 10 minutes I was feeling some knee pain and by the end I was almost running with a limp. But, again, 9 months off will do that to you! I only made it 1.89 miles in those 20 minutes (I ran 2 miles on that same route on July 10, 2011 in 17:56). Right now a 5K would easily take me more than 30 minutes, so I have my work cut out for me. But I'm confident I'll be able to get my times down and my stamina up in time. I'm just pumped that I've finally kickstarted my training! This means summer is near. Vacation time!
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Summary of July & August 2011
Well, we've come to the end of a long hiatus. When last I posted an entry, we were about to depart for Switzerland to visit Cristina (my wife's longtime friend) and her family. It was the middle of the summer of 2011. I was running well from April to July, logging in some of my best times in many years. But my routine was upended some when we left for Europe. It wasn't put to a stop, only altered somewhat. The following is a rundown of those couple of months as the summer wound down:
When I went to Switzerland with my wife and her parents, it was with the expectation that I'd continue my running even in Europe. Cristina had recently begun running herself and she had told me there were some great running spots near her house. I was extremely excited to run in a foreign place; the thought of it was exhilarating! After a few days in Switzerland (in the town of Olten), Cristina invited me along for a morning run. Unlike my runs back home, I didn't time this one. I didn't care to. I simply wanted to take in the scenery and enjoy the freedom of running without the added pressure of having to hit a certain time. So off we went. From Cristina's house we ventured away from the town and into an untouched tract of forest. And the forests of Switzerland are as beautiful as any in the world! The trees were tall and numerous. The flora was dense all around us. At times the trees and bushes covered our heads, forming a natural tunnel through the woods. I was in awe as I ran. Cristina led the way up and down a meandering dirt path, at times wide as a road, at times narrow as a small animal trail. At certain moments the trees would open up and we'd catch a view of the city. It was simply a stupendous run! I hardly got tired I was so distracted by the beauty. Finally the path wound back down toward town and emptied us out onto a neighborhood street. We ran for probably about 45 minutes. When we arrived back at the house I felt invigorated like never before. It was by far one of the best runs I've ever been on (along with the run along Newport Beach in June 2011).
Little did I know, though, that Cristina had another run in mind that would be even better! After a few more days in Switzerland, traveling all over the country and spending time with great friends, the opportunity for our next run came about. Cristina had mentioned a place called the "thousand steps," and said she and her dad would run there a lot. Just the sound of it intrigued me, so they invited me along one afternoon. Cristina's dad, Peter, drove us to a spot near the outskirts of town. The three of us then proceeded to run up a path that steadily climbed up into the dense forest. After a short while we came to the bottom of what was indeed "a thousand steps"! I had imagined more of a large, wide-open stairway. But these steps were very narrow and basically hidden within the thickly forested hills. They were very "organically" constructed as well. In other words, these were not uniform stairs, each of equal size; these steps were made out of the wood that was found everywhere in the forest, somewhat rickety, some high, some low, some wide, some narrow. It made for a rather striking image in the forest! Originally I had wanted to run up the whole thing, but Cristina and Peter warned me against that, and indeed I hadn't really realized just how many one thousand steps really is! So once we reached step 1, I decided instead to walk them briskly. After the first 100 I knew exactly why they had told me not to run! These were steep steps, and even walking quickly I was tiring fast. Every 100 stairs there was a marker so you always knew about how long you had left. Determined to get a good workout in, though, I plowed ahead, with Cristina and Peter behind. It seemed to last forever. 500 steps. 600 steps. 800 steps. And on and on. It even started to rain! (Which added to the experience). We finally neared the top, took a few pictures, and then took a breather. Once at the top the rain really started coming down. But now that we were high up on a hill, the only way was down, however (thankfully) not by the stairs. There was a winding path that switch-backed down the mountain. So with the rain flying in our faces, we raced down the hill! It was a free and wild experience, running through foreign and exotic forests, the ancient forests of Europe, the forests that the first peoples explored, the same forests that the Roman legions patrolled, the same forests that the Medieval knights traveled through! We stopped only once so Peter could show me a viewpoint. It gave an incredible vista of Switzerland's broad slopes and valleys on the north side of the Alps. We continued on till we reconnected with the steps. From that point we had to go back down the steps, about 300 of them. That was a precarious task, as it was slick from all the rain. But we all made it and continued to run all the way to the car, soaked to the bone but all smiles!
Cristina brought me along on one other run later during our visit, back to the same route as our first run. It was again an incredible experience. I also had the awesome opportunity to go with Cristina and Peter on an epic bike ride along the Aare River. We rode from her house up one bank of the river far north of town, crossed a bridge and rode down the opposite bank. It was a truly amazing ride and just as great an experience as the runs. All in all, the runs and the bike ride in Switzerland were memorable experiences that I will always treasure. It was immensely gratifying to run in a setting worlds apart from what I usually run back home in the deserts of California. To run free in another country. To experience the wilderness in all its glory. I can only hope I'll have a chance to return someday and run those trails again!
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