I've been keeping up with my runs, but not so much with my posts. It's just been too busy lately. So I figured I'd just combine some runs and do an all-in-one blog. So here is a brief rundown of my runs from May 2 to May 9.
Run #1 - Thursday, May 2, 2013 - 2 miles, Apple Valley to Sitting Bull:
On Wednesday, May 1, I had to accompany the track team to Ridgecrest for league finals. I was still planning on getting a bike ride in when I got home, but as I didn't arrive back home until after 11pm, and I was about to drop dead from exhaustion, I decided instead to forgo the cycling and tack on an extra half mile to Thursday's run. So what was supposed to be an easy 1.5 miles became 2 miles. I took this run slow. My stopwatch broke and I still haven't replaced my MiCoach battery, so I had no choice but to not time this run. It was actually nice, though, to simply run without glancing at my time or trying to beat a certain time. I ran casually, and I enjoyed it. It was the first time running this route since twisting my ankle on it back in November 2012. I made sure this time to stay well away from the edge of the asphalt. At this point, I know my runs aren't going to be stellar, but I simply want to log the miles. And tonight I put 2 in the bag.
Run #2 - Friday, May 3, 2013 - 2 miles, Yucca Loma to the river:
Friday's run was very similar to Thursday's. Another 2 miles, only this time I took the river route, which I haven't run in a while. I took it nice and easy again. It was uneventful, but it was at least a decent run, and not a pain-filled torturous one. My stamina is still weak, but my legs are holding up, which is a nice sign after five months off.
Run #3 - Monday, May 6, 2013 - 2 miles, Apple Valley to Sitting Bull:
On Saturday the 4th I did my first cycling exercise. I rode about 4 miles, but I went late at night and I don't have a light on my bike, so it was kind of a nerve-racking ride. But I was able to pick up speed at some lit-up sections and I felt the burn in my thighs acutely. And I think it helped on Monday's run. I can't wait to see the benefits of long-term cross-training. Anyway, on Monday it was cold and windy, not fun running conditions, but I threw on a hoodie and went anyway. I was blasted the whole way down, as the wind was coming from the south, but the way back was nice. All in all a good run on an old route.
Run #4 - Thursday, May 9, 2013 - 1.5 miles, Yucca Loma past gas station:
This was the same route I took on my inaugural run of 2013 on April 29. But tonight I felt infinitely better! My legs felt strong, and I even, on the way back, was able to sprint for a short while crossing Apple Valley. I felt so limber and free! It was a feeling that invigorated me and I was pumped the rest of the run. It was like catching a glimpse of what it will feel like to run when I'm in shape. I can't wait! Aside from my breathing, which is still a struggle, this run demonstrated definite signs that I'm already getting more into shape. Two weeks in and things are looking up.
