During my summer reading, I read that many of the long distance runners had to resort to running at night. This is something that I not particularly interested in doing. Sometimes it's spooky. But when your goal for the day is to run 7 miles and it is dusk when you begin, there is great chance that you will be running in the dark. Well, last night was the first time that I had to run in the absolute darkness. I had run at night before. I used to drive to Fredricksburg where there are street lights. I moved a ways away from Fredricksburg so that is no longer an option.
I ended up running in my subdivision. I live in lakeside area. There are a lot of trees that block out the light of the stars. So there were moments of complete and utter darkness. It was not only difficult to see but also it was also kind of dangerous. I could not see my footfalls. Now is not the time for an injury so I will have to do something like get a headlamp. So today, begins my search for a headlamp.
Gotta run.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Monday, September 21, 2009
My Inspiration
I have always been a runner. I didn't know it until I was 36. I was thinking about who got me running and first and foremost it was my father. As a child, he wanted to get into shape and we would go to the local track as a child. He would run his 2 miles and I would would run around a couple of times and then spend my time splashing in the puddles of the pole vault pit and bounce on the rubberized mats for the pole vault landing zone. As I got older, I would run a couple of laps while he did and as I got into high school we would run together.
There are a couple of points that stand out in my memory about running with my father. One thing he said to me was that he could not run really fast. That sat well with me as well because I have never been fast. But, he said that he could run forever. I could always run far. Thus far in my training I am just figuring out how far I can go.
The second thing that I received from him regarding running is the patience to coach students. Right now with the running club at our school, I encourage all the children to do more than they think they are able to. I am really pushing the students in our club to be able run the 5K Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day. I really believe that they will be able to complete it, which for some of my students will be a real accomplishment. However, it was through his patience that I was able to develop my own and see running for what it is, a way to make a person better than they already are. I believe that these and any children can attain a goal that they don't yet know they are able to.
Thanks Dad.
There are a couple of points that stand out in my memory about running with my father. One thing he said to me was that he could not run really fast. That sat well with me as well because I have never been fast. But, he said that he could run forever. I could always run far. Thus far in my training I am just figuring out how far I can go.
The second thing that I received from him regarding running is the patience to coach students. Right now with the running club at our school, I encourage all the children to do more than they think they are able to. I am really pushing the students in our club to be able run the 5K Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day. I really believe that they will be able to complete it, which for some of my students will be a real accomplishment. However, it was through his patience that I was able to develop my own and see running for what it is, a way to make a person better than they already are. I believe that these and any children can attain a goal that they don't yet know they are able to.
Thanks Dad.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Running Sick
Last week, in an effort to continue my training even though I have been sick, I went on a disasterous run. Right now generally on a daily basis I am capable of running 7 miles at the drop of a hat. My training schedule has me running about that every day. My life schedule does not. Being a teacher and having just started school again, I have a lot of responsibilities. Not to mention the exposure of germs from my children. So working hard, running lots and not resting all caught up with me. I went out for a 5 mile run. I barely made it. All I wanted to do was throw up and lay down. I got through but I am not sure that I made the right choice. because since then for the past 7 days, I have been unable to run. I have to run with my kids during Running Club and will continue to see how well it goes.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
School Startup and Training
This was a rough start up to the school year for me as a runner. I had so much to do. Nothing more than everyone else but I had trouble training and working. During the summer vacation, I had plenty of time for work and training. I am at the stage of training for the marathon that I need at least an hour a day, for training. After working 11 hours, it is sometimes difficult to fit it in. I fought through the first few weeks. Not getting as much in as I had wanted but enough to keep me going.
Getting acclimated to the school year. I did too much. Not training but work. I ended up getting sick and have since not run in a week. I am beginning to worry myself about my training. Knowing full well that I will be able to run the marathon. Not getting to train makes me a little nervous. I hope I can get back on the horse.
During the startup of the school year, there is a lot of things that need to be done to get my room in order for my little ones. Many of the tasks that need to be completed are not necessarily hard but really time consuming. For example, I had to come in to set up my classroom the Saturday before the school started and worked for 7 hours and you could not even tell that I had been there. So that day's plan of running 7 miles didn't work.
Gotta Run...
Getting acclimated to the school year. I did too much. Not training but work. I ended up getting sick and have since not run in a week. I am beginning to worry myself about my training. Knowing full well that I will be able to run the marathon. Not getting to train makes me a little nervous. I hope I can get back on the horse.
During the startup of the school year, there is a lot of things that need to be done to get my room in order for my little ones. Many of the tasks that need to be completed are not necessarily hard but really time consuming. For example, I had to come in to set up my classroom the Saturday before the school started and worked for 7 hours and you could not even tell that I had been there. So that day's plan of running 7 miles didn't work.
Gotta Run...
Running Club 2009 - 2010
Tomorrow after school, we will have our first Running Club meeting for our school. I got the permission slips out a little late. So far I only have a few people signed up but this year is a little better. I am also encouraging other staff to participate as well as parents. Running is good.
I have more adults helping out. This will make my job easier. My job, in my opinion, is to make sure that all the kids run. I like to run with them until they are all done. I want the kids to feel like they are not last. Myself, as a child, I was always the last one and I don't want the children to be the last one done. Let's go Running Club.
I have more adults helping out. This will make my job easier. My job, in my opinion, is to make sure that all the kids run. I like to run with them until they are all done. I want the kids to feel like they are not last. Myself, as a child, I was always the last one and I don't want the children to be the last one done. Let's go Running Club.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Hydration Experiences
Yesterday, I went out for my biggest run to date. I went out for 13. I knew it was hot but didn't know that it was going to be 95 degrees out. But I brought with me a lot of water. I went to a new place to run and parked my car near the center of where I was going to run. So not only did I have my handheld. (A water bottle that straps to your hand for those who do not know ) I also had my new water bottle that straps around my waist. I had that full as well. I tore through my first water bottle rather quickly. Again my ignorance in knowing what the temperature was made for a quick drinking of that first first bottle. After mile 7, I was about destroyed. I was hot and exhausted. When I reached the halfway point of the run. I decided to drink the little gatorade bottle that I had prepared as well.
Well, that was amazing. With a little rest and a lot of stretching, I was ready to go again. That was the first time that gatorade was beneficial to me. Having read a number of articles about hydration, stating that most runners and exercisers need only water, an idea to which I subscribe. This was the first evidence to the contrary. Now, I will not be prompted to drink gatorade on all my runs. Mostly, I just want water. However, at that moment, it was exactly what I needed.
When I made it back to my car. I refilled my handheld and drank the all of my waste pack bottle. After which I felt pretty good, relatively speaking. I continued to drink and fill up my bottle at my car throughout the rest of the run. I will admit that this was a difficult run, for two reasons, new distance for me and the heat.
Remarkably, I feel reasonably well this Monday morning. Last week, when I ran 12, I felt destroyed the next day. Again, I had a greater focus on my form for the entirety of the run. I will discuss this in a later topic.
Things to be gleaned from this post: First, park in a central spot, so that you may have access to your water. Second, on long runs sports drinks should be used. My standard is generally going to be runs longer than 10 miles. Third, be smart. Look at the weather report before going out blindly.
Well, that was amazing. With a little rest and a lot of stretching, I was ready to go again. That was the first time that gatorade was beneficial to me. Having read a number of articles about hydration, stating that most runners and exercisers need only water, an idea to which I subscribe. This was the first evidence to the contrary. Now, I will not be prompted to drink gatorade on all my runs. Mostly, I just want water. However, at that moment, it was exactly what I needed.
When I made it back to my car. I refilled my handheld and drank the all of my waste pack bottle. After which I felt pretty good, relatively speaking. I continued to drink and fill up my bottle at my car throughout the rest of the run. I will admit that this was a difficult run, for two reasons, new distance for me and the heat.
Remarkably, I feel reasonably well this Monday morning. Last week, when I ran 12, I felt destroyed the next day. Again, I had a greater focus on my form for the entirety of the run. I will discuss this in a later topic.
Things to be gleaned from this post: First, park in a central spot, so that you may have access to your water. Second, on long runs sports drinks should be used. My standard is generally going to be runs longer than 10 miles. Third, be smart. Look at the weather report before going out blindly.
Friday, August 7, 2009
One Step Closer
Yesterday I ran in the last in FARC's summer series of Cross Country Runs. I got 27:10 in that particular 5K. I am getting closer to my goal of 24. 3 minutes, while large is a long time but I still think that I will be able to get there. My next race will be the 10 miler the day before school starts, So I guess that I should sign up soon.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
My goals
I have been thinking for a long time about my goals. While I have written about some of my goals before, I have mainly been running for a couple of reasons. The main reason is for general health. My most recent attainable goal was to run in the Stonewall Jackson 20 Miler this fall. But recently I have figured out all of my goals. There are quite a few. I believe that I can attain each one.
First, as a high school student I ran track for one year, I was a distance runner, I ran the mile and the 2 mile. My best time in the mile was 5:32. I think now, nearly 20 years after high school, I have both the discipline and the desire to beat that time. Granted speed work is not something that I am interested in but I think that I will get that one.
Second, I want to as I have said run in the Stonewall Jackson 20 miler, for reasons previously alluded to in earlier posts.
Third, during high school I was a Cross Country runner. Again, I have never been fast and I don't even remember what my time was in high school. So right now my goal is 24 min for a 5K.
Fourth, I would like to say one time that I finished a marathon. So I will sign up for the Richmond Marathon and run in it.
Last, I have a super secret goal but I am keeping that one under my hat for the time being. Only because I want to see if I get 2 and 4 this year.
I will update as each one gets either closer or is completed.
First, as a high school student I ran track for one year, I was a distance runner, I ran the mile and the 2 mile. My best time in the mile was 5:32. I think now, nearly 20 years after high school, I have both the discipline and the desire to beat that time. Granted speed work is not something that I am interested in but I think that I will get that one.
Second, I want to as I have said run in the Stonewall Jackson 20 miler, for reasons previously alluded to in earlier posts.
Third, during high school I was a Cross Country runner. Again, I have never been fast and I don't even remember what my time was in high school. So right now my goal is 24 min for a 5K.
Fourth, I would like to say one time that I finished a marathon. So I will sign up for the Richmond Marathon and run in it.
Last, I have a super secret goal but I am keeping that one under my hat for the time being. Only because I want to see if I get 2 and 4 this year.
I will update as each one gets either closer or is completed.
Arbitrary Goals
First of all it is important for one to have a goal. In my case, I want to run in the Stonewall Jackson 20 Miler. For some reason, that one has spoken to me ever since I heard about it 5 years ago. I didn't know if I could run 2o miles. Now, I am fairly certain that I can do it.
But one thing that I found distracting is this Nike Plus goal. I set the bar pretty high, that I would complete 100 miles. I like the way that it records the miles that I have run. It has always been important to me to know how far I have run. So much so that I have often driven the exact course that I ran in order to determine how far I had gone, on a particular day. When I looked at how far I had run, I wanted to complete the 100 mile goal so much that I had run 95 miles as of last Friday. I thought I can certainly run 5 more miles to reach 100 on Saturday. However, due to the long run the day before, I was sore. I didn't run Saturday or Sunday. I was becoming upset that I was not going to reach my goal. Well, in the end it took two days instead of the one to reach my goal. Regardless, I reached my goal. It may not have been on the day that my head said that I was supposed to but the day my body said OK. Of course I am now past it, and on my way the next goal. I want to see how long it takes me to run 200 miles. It took 20 runs to get to the 100 mile mark.
But one thing that I found distracting is this Nike Plus goal. I set the bar pretty high, that I would complete 100 miles. I like the way that it records the miles that I have run. It has always been important to me to know how far I have run. So much so that I have often driven the exact course that I ran in order to determine how far I had gone, on a particular day. When I looked at how far I had run, I wanted to complete the 100 mile goal so much that I had run 95 miles as of last Friday. I thought I can certainly run 5 more miles to reach 100 on Saturday. However, due to the long run the day before, I was sore. I didn't run Saturday or Sunday. I was becoming upset that I was not going to reach my goal. Well, in the end it took two days instead of the one to reach my goal. Regardless, I reached my goal. It may not have been on the day that my head said that I was supposed to but the day my body said OK. Of course I am now past it, and on my way the next goal. I want to see how long it takes me to run 200 miles. It took 20 runs to get to the 100 mile mark.
Rebound Part 2
Yesterday. I was nervous about running again. Even though I ran nearly 3 miles, to me that is not sufficient. I want to be able to run 6 or 7 miles without even thinking. With my goal of running the Spotsy 20 Miler, I feel that I need to be able to do this and I believe that I will be able to successfully complete the race. So I wanted to be able to get at least 4 miles yesterday. Now I know that even with an injury which I am still slowly working through, I know that I absolutely have to cut down on mileage. Also, I know that I have to stretch more, which I am doing.
So I got out there and started running in Fredericksburg National battlefield. I have run there a bunch of times. I went there yesterday because I needed to be in a little bit of shade because it is summer here and pretty hot. So I started my run and then I found a path that I had been on before. Usually I can't see the path as well but yesterday I followed it through, it was so much fun. Not only did I find myself running longer, but also I found myself running faster. I was concentrating on my form as well. Man was it fun. When I got out off the path I headed back to my car and I threw in the towel at 6 miles. I had to stop to walk for the last half mile but I was completely happy with a six miler. I got in the car all sweaty and tired and happy. It was a good day. Another good run. I got home, stretched again and slept.
So I got out there and started running in Fredericksburg National battlefield. I have run there a bunch of times. I went there yesterday because I needed to be in a little bit of shade because it is summer here and pretty hot. So I started my run and then I found a path that I had been on before. Usually I can't see the path as well but yesterday I followed it through, it was so much fun. Not only did I find myself running longer, but also I found myself running faster. I was concentrating on my form as well. Man was it fun. When I got out off the path I headed back to my car and I threw in the towel at 6 miles. I had to stop to walk for the last half mile but I was completely happy with a six miler. I got in the car all sweaty and tired and happy. It was a good day. Another good run. I got home, stretched again and slept.
Rebound Part 1
Well, I really was nervous about getting back on the horse. I was worried if the King of All Personal Setbacks would affect me again. I had a professional development class for teaching on Monday and I knew that I wanted to run again. I had packed my workout bag for a run. Then I got a call from my brother that he would be stopping by for a visit. He lives in PA and I live in beautiful Virginia. He had bought a boat and was transporting it up to PA from Florida. Since, I live 3 miles of I 95 he thought to stop by. It was a nice thing.
So I figured that he would arrive around 4:30 pm. At 3:30, I was at home and decided to go for a run. This was the first time I took my phone because I thought that he might catch me on my run. But I still had in the back of my mind that I wanted to reach that 100 miles mark on my Nike Plus. As I started, I realized that there was no way that I would be able to run 5 miles and get ready for my brother's visit. Well, I said that there was always tomorrow and I ran about 3 miles. This was good because my knee was still a little sore and I don't think that I should have done more.
So with the pressure with someone coming for a visit, I got back on the horse and ran again. I was pleased because I ran. My last major setback cost me months of running and setback my marathon goal by 2 years. It is easy not to run. It is hard to run when you're sore. I ran before my brother got there and there it was I was back on the horse. I felt good because I ran fast and it didn't hurt as much. I was back on the correct form and searching out he softest places to run. Thank goodness there is grass along the side of the roads in my neighborhood.
I finally got to visit with my brother and we hung out, he took his boat home and I had the rest of the night to bask in the glory of having been able to run again, even if it was not the 5 I had hoped for. There's always tomorrow.
So I figured that he would arrive around 4:30 pm. At 3:30, I was at home and decided to go for a run. This was the first time I took my phone because I thought that he might catch me on my run. But I still had in the back of my mind that I wanted to reach that 100 miles mark on my Nike Plus. As I started, I realized that there was no way that I would be able to run 5 miles and get ready for my brother's visit. Well, I said that there was always tomorrow and I ran about 3 miles. This was good because my knee was still a little sore and I don't think that I should have done more.
So with the pressure with someone coming for a visit, I got back on the horse and ran again. I was pleased because I ran. My last major setback cost me months of running and setback my marathon goal by 2 years. It is easy not to run. It is hard to run when you're sore. I ran before my brother got there and there it was I was back on the horse. I felt good because I ran fast and it didn't hurt as much. I was back on the correct form and searching out he softest places to run. Thank goodness there is grass along the side of the roads in my neighborhood.
I finally got to visit with my brother and we hung out, he took his boat home and I had the rest of the night to bask in the glory of having been able to run again, even if it was not the 5 I had hoped for. There's always tomorrow.
Days Off
Man after the long run, and the excessive heat of Virginia summers, I could not get my act together to run. Plus, being essentially a lazy man, I needed a day off. So I took off Saturday. I was OK with that one. Then Sunday rolled around. I had trouble getting out of bed. Thus the 10:30 wake up time. I normally drag myself out of bed around 5:30, or so.
Clearly I was tired. And of course this was the day that my knee really felt bad. So I waited and waited for my run. When I finally got ready to go for the run, I had another setback. Let me back of up a second. I as discussed in a previous post, I got the Nike Plus. Well, I found that one time while on the run if you hit it during your run the Nike plus will not log in some part of your run. So I lost about 3/4 of a mile of a run. I was mad, 3/4 of a mile on a 5 mile run is a lot. If it were a 20 mile run, I would not be so upset but this was important to have it logged.
Also, I was very close to having completed 100 miles since the purchase of my Nike Plus. This was a milestone for me and I wanted to run the last 5 miles to 100 on my Nike Plus. Then my Ipod stopped functioning. It froze up and I knew that I had to let it run itself out, and then recharge it. Well that entire process takes about 2 - 3 hours.
So back to Sunday. It was 6:00pm. So I hoped that I would be able to get my act together. It didn't pan out. It started getting dark, and I was getting discouraged, I didn't realize how important it was to me to be able to run. Read: Someone found a new drug. I threw in the towel when at 9:00 it was finally dark and there was no way that I would be able to run my entire 5 miles and subsequently didn't run at all.
There were a lot of thoughts running through my head. Will I be able to run again? Will I be able to run the Marathon? Is this going to the former setback again? (to be discussed in subsequent posts) Is my body built for long runs? This is how I felt on Sunday night.
Clearly I was tired. And of course this was the day that my knee really felt bad. So I waited and waited for my run. When I finally got ready to go for the run, I had another setback. Let me back of up a second. I as discussed in a previous post, I got the Nike Plus. Well, I found that one time while on the run if you hit it during your run the Nike plus will not log in some part of your run. So I lost about 3/4 of a mile of a run. I was mad, 3/4 of a mile on a 5 mile run is a lot. If it were a 20 mile run, I would not be so upset but this was important to have it logged.
Also, I was very close to having completed 100 miles since the purchase of my Nike Plus. This was a milestone for me and I wanted to run the last 5 miles to 100 on my Nike Plus. Then my Ipod stopped functioning. It froze up and I knew that I had to let it run itself out, and then recharge it. Well that entire process takes about 2 - 3 hours.
So back to Sunday. It was 6:00pm. So I hoped that I would be able to get my act together. It didn't pan out. It started getting dark, and I was getting discouraged, I didn't realize how important it was to me to be able to run. Read: Someone found a new drug. I threw in the towel when at 9:00 it was finally dark and there was no way that I would be able to run my entire 5 miles and subsequently didn't run at all.
There were a lot of thoughts running through my head. Will I be able to run again? Will I be able to run the Marathon? Is this going to the former setback again? (to be discussed in subsequent posts) Is my body built for long runs? This is how I felt on Sunday night.
The Long One
I have been working hard at increasing the length of my runs in hopes of running the Richmond Marathon. Because of other obligations I had to change the day of my long run last week. I ran 12 miles. I had wondered if I was able to accomplish it and of course I did. But it sure was a long one. I just about ran all the roads in my neighborhood.
There are a couple of things that I gleaned from this run. First, cotton is no longer my friend. I looked like wet myself. I was covered from head to toe in sweat at the conclusion of the run. I decided that I actually have to buy some nylon running clothes.
Second, I discovered that I will be able to complete the 20 miler this fall. Provided I suffer no injuries. My knee has been hurting me, and was hurting me at the conclusion of the run. So I have to remember to stretch, and strengthen my knees.
Third, this is probably the most important for me. I found that my form suffers the longer I run. It is not necessary how long I run but it revolves around how tired I am. I get lazier the longer I run. So I have to reassess and notice how my feet are landing and where my knees are in relation to the rest of my body.
There are a couple of things that I gleaned from this run. First, cotton is no longer my friend. I looked like wet myself. I was covered from head to toe in sweat at the conclusion of the run. I decided that I actually have to buy some nylon running clothes.
Second, I discovered that I will be able to complete the 20 miler this fall. Provided I suffer no injuries. My knee has been hurting me, and was hurting me at the conclusion of the run. So I have to remember to stretch, and strengthen my knees.
Third, this is probably the most important for me. I found that my form suffers the longer I run. It is not necessary how long I run but it revolves around how tired I am. I get lazier the longer I run. So I have to reassess and notice how my feet are landing and where my knees are in relation to the rest of my body.
Monday, July 27, 2009
10 Miler
I just wanted a chance to chronicle the farthest distance that I have run since I really started running again. This past Saturday, I ran 10 miles. It was hot and I sure was tired. But it was also very instructive. I found that I am almost certain that I will be able to reach my goal of running in the Stonewall Jackson 20 miler this fall. While I am only halfway there, I really feel like as though I will be able to do it. While injuries prevented me from doing this before, I think that I now have the knowledge and the strength to attain this goal. Ten miles is for me a long way, but I really felt that I am ready.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Parkside Race
As I have said, I have been running the Parkside Running Club for a couple of years. Well, at the end of each season of the Running Club, I have, with limited success had a race for the students to participate in to feel like they have accomplished something. In the past, we have gone down to the Richmond Marathon, to participate in the 1 mile fun run. We have also gone down to the Fredericksburg turkey trot on Thanksgiving Day. But last year, there were so many students that participated in the Turkey Trot that I thought that we should have our own race during the school year to both suport student learning and health. Well, I got the Go Ahead from my principal the other day to set up the races (a 1 mile fun run / walk) and a 5K. So from now on I will give reasonable updates about the setup and running of the race. Also, if you have any advice for setting up the race I would appreciate it.
Keep Fleet of Feet.
Keep Fleet of Feet.
First 5 K
Yesterday I ran my first 5 K, in what I hope is to become a series of 5Ks. I ended up running it in 29:15. Much better than I had thought I would do. My goal was less than 30:00. First, I was nervous because I was going by myself, and I didn't know what to do or where to go. But I figured it out. It was the 4th in a series of 5 FARC sponsored Cross Country Runs. There is another next week as well. I hope to be able to do it again. There are four interesting things that I noticed during my run.
First, I was incredibly nervous, my heart-rate was skyrocketing. I checked it a lot and noticed that it was in the 170's, I usually run with it hovering around 154 or so. I am not certain whether it was the nervousness of being in a race or the pace at which I ran it. I will have to check that out again next week, when I try again.
Second, I expected that there would mainly be 5 or so people running but when I got there, there were maybe 50 people. Many were students from the local high schools' cross country teams. It was great to see them out there and watch how quickly they destroyed the competition. It was also funny to remember that I used to warm up for a race, by running a mile or so. I was out there for the 5K and that was it. So I just stretched and ran. I had fun but ran hard.
Third, I have been practicing changing my form to run with shorter strides and a different body position. I found that on the trails in the woods, I experienced complete joy during that section. Not only did increase my speed in that section; but also, I passed some people that I would not have passed them on the flats or in the open. A good reason to keep up that running position.
Finally, I ended up running into a former student of mine. I had this student who had escaped from the Sudan by having been adopted by a church with the rest of his family. I ran the entire race with his younger sister. Nothing like getting schooled by a 6th grader. But the reason I mention this is because, running is unique. I would not have had a great and interesting experience without my having had the compunction to run again. More stories to follow, with the more races I run.
May you have a similar running experience on your next run.
First, I was incredibly nervous, my heart-rate was skyrocketing. I checked it a lot and noticed that it was in the 170's, I usually run with it hovering around 154 or so. I am not certain whether it was the nervousness of being in a race or the pace at which I ran it. I will have to check that out again next week, when I try again.
Second, I expected that there would mainly be 5 or so people running but when I got there, there were maybe 50 people. Many were students from the local high schools' cross country teams. It was great to see them out there and watch how quickly they destroyed the competition. It was also funny to remember that I used to warm up for a race, by running a mile or so. I was out there for the 5K and that was it. So I just stretched and ran. I had fun but ran hard.
Third, I have been practicing changing my form to run with shorter strides and a different body position. I found that on the trails in the woods, I experienced complete joy during that section. Not only did increase my speed in that section; but also, I passed some people that I would not have passed them on the flats or in the open. A good reason to keep up that running position.
Finally, I ended up running into a former student of mine. I had this student who had escaped from the Sudan by having been adopted by a church with the rest of his family. I ran the entire race with his younger sister. Nothing like getting schooled by a 6th grader. But the reason I mention this is because, running is unique. I would not have had a great and interesting experience without my having had the compunction to run again. More stories to follow, with the more races I run.
May you have a similar running experience on your next run.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Running
There are a number of runners that teach at my school. Well a couple of years ago, one of my coworkers set up a running club at our school. The goal of the club was to get the kids out and have them run 2 miles twice a week and play a running game. I was a reasonable success. What we would do is run 24 miles over the course of the club and then finish the club with the culminating run of the children’s fun run mile at the Richmond Marathon. Well, that teacher could no longer supervise the running club. So it fell to me to do this and I have had some really great help in the process. I have done this some more times each time to greater and greater success. This past year, I had something great happen in the fall. I had quite a few parents come and run the final mile of our club with their child. I was amazed at this. The kids were so excited at being a part of the running club that they go their parents to run with them as well. Well this past fall, instead of having our culminating run at the Richmond Marathon, we decided that we would have it as a part of the Fredericksburg Area Running Club's Turkey Trot in downtown Fredericksburg (www.runfarc.com) on Thanksgiving Morning. I had so many children participate in that, it was that day that I decided that we would hold another Running Club in the spring. More on that later.
Hot and Humid and a Pizza Lunch
I really waited and waited today to avoid the humidity for my run. I waited until 7:00 to go on my run and it was bloody hot.
One thing that I have loved to do when I have had a day off, the is get up in the morning and do usual morning routines. In the afternoon, I like to eat a large lunch and then take a nap. Well, I followed this routine exactly eating one of my favorite meals, Pizza, and followed with a nap. I woke from my nap and got my act together for the run. I was sluggish and had a couple cups of coffee to shake off the rust, and got out there. Well, I had to take several breaks and each time I had wanted to throw up. I guess that pizza will now have to be a rare privilege and no longer a midday meal eaten to excess. Well, times change and so do our bodies and goals. I guess that the joy of the run, will have to outweigh the momentary gratification of pizzas. Vomiting on a run is just plain unpleasant.
One thing that I have loved to do when I have had a day off, the is get up in the morning and do usual morning routines. In the afternoon, I like to eat a large lunch and then take a nap. Well, I followed this routine exactly eating one of my favorite meals, Pizza, and followed with a nap. I woke from my nap and got my act together for the run. I was sluggish and had a couple cups of coffee to shake off the rust, and got out there. Well, I had to take several breaks and each time I had wanted to throw up. I guess that pizza will now have to be a rare privilege and no longer a midday meal eaten to excess. Well, times change and so do our bodies and goals. I guess that the joy of the run, will have to outweigh the momentary gratification of pizzas. Vomiting on a run is just plain unpleasant.
A Quiet Comeback
I had been achy for a couple of days and in all honesty, I did not want to run at all yesterday. Plus, it is now the middle of July and here in Virginia, it is getting really humid. Yesterday. I felt that I had to run again. And so I went for a little and as I got started, I turned the first corner and then the thunder clapped. I laughed aloud and hoped I would beat the rain. Fortunately, I did. The run turned out to be just what I needed. I spent the entire run focused completely on my form and all the aches that I had had before were significantly minimized. I was very happy to have less distractions in my run.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Background
Some people may want to know about the reason while some one would want to write a blog about their running. Let me start with my history. I have always wanted to stay in shape and have never been one who could get big Also, like my father said to me as a kid, I can’t run fast but I can run for a while and thanks to his passing this ability on to me. I finally joined cross country in the fall of my last year of high school, and I really enjoyed it. I moved to track in the winter and summer but not liking it as much. But I always liked the idea of running long distances.
This ability to run and stay in reasonable shape, has always manifested itself in running throughout college and into my adult life. I have taken time off with mixing in biking. But being a cheap guy, a pair of sneakers is the cheapest gym membership that I could afford. Upon further reflection, it is something that I have done everywhere I have lived. I lived in Japan, Thailand back in PA where I grew up, and before I came down here to Fredericksburg, what I did when I wanted to get away was go for a run. But running is something that I have found that I have gone back to like I did with cigarettes. Every so often, I would go back to smoking, just like I would go back to running. It has only been in the last few months that I have really understood my passion for the sport. And this passion has recently reached a new level.
The one thing that I have to admit throughout all my travels, running is something that I can do anywhere, all I need to remember is to bring a pair of shoes. Being a little lazy, I can always remember to bring a pair of shoes. At any rate that is my running background.
Keep fleet of feet.
This ability to run and stay in reasonable shape, has always manifested itself in running throughout college and into my adult life. I have taken time off with mixing in biking. But being a cheap guy, a pair of sneakers is the cheapest gym membership that I could afford. Upon further reflection, it is something that I have done everywhere I have lived. I lived in Japan, Thailand back in PA where I grew up, and before I came down here to Fredericksburg, what I did when I wanted to get away was go for a run. But running is something that I have found that I have gone back to like I did with cigarettes. Every so often, I would go back to smoking, just like I would go back to running. It has only been in the last few months that I have really understood my passion for the sport. And this passion has recently reached a new level.
The one thing that I have to admit throughout all my travels, running is something that I can do anywhere, all I need to remember is to bring a pair of shoes. Being a little lazy, I can always remember to bring a pair of shoes. At any rate that is my running background.
Keep fleet of feet.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Setback
Today was a bit off a setback in my running. It was a beautiful day outside so there was no way I was not going to run. Nice, sunny, and No Humidity, it has been humid lately. I had high aspirations in my run today because I wanted to get to my 25 mile goal today on my Nike plus. I am close, I am about 8 miles away or so. So my intent was to run the last eight and hit that goal. Well that didn't take place. I was very achy today. I have been at it hard lately and I got about 2 miles out there and just things were not working out as I might have had them, so I cut it short at 3 miles. No sense in kicking my butt on a Tuesday just for the laughs.
So, while I didn't get as far as I had wanted today, I will get there somehow. I vow to myself that I will not destroy my body so that I cannot participate in the late Fall goal of running a 20 miler and then hopes of running the Richmond Marathon.
Today, I think that the main factor in my troubles was the poor form that I have been working on. Upon looking back today, I think that I was more worried about my feet and every time that I have had trouble with my feet, I have needed to readjust my body position.
Anyway, more to follow later.
So, while I didn't get as far as I had wanted today, I will get there somehow. I vow to myself that I will not destroy my body so that I cannot participate in the late Fall goal of running a 20 miler and then hopes of running the Richmond Marathon.
Today, I think that the main factor in my troubles was the poor form that I have been working on. Upon looking back today, I think that I was more worried about my feet and every time that I have had trouble with my feet, I have needed to readjust my body position.
Anyway, more to follow later.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Reading about Running Part 1
I recently read 2 books about running this summer. I am going to quickly review the Dean Karnasses book Ultramarathonman. It was a fine book. It offered a unique journey of a man's transition from regular guy to an ultramarathon runner. I liked the structure of the story from his big run ordering a pizza on the road to his explanation of how he got where he was as a ultra runner.
I have to say that initially, I did not like the book. The way the story presents itself, the guy seems like he is bragging. Sure he has done some incredible things running to the South Pole, The Death Valley Race and Running a team race solo. Go Team Dean. There is no denying that. It just came across as look at me, I did this. However, any guy writing a blog is also saying the same thing, "Look at me."
Upon further reflection, I have heard an interview with Karnasses on a podcast Run, Run Live., and I have since changed my mind about him. While I still am not a fan of the book, my thoughts on Karnasses have changed. Many runners think that he has sold out because he makes some money from his running. Being a broke teacher, I would like to be able to make money from something else that I love. And that is what he said, you should do something that you love. There are many people who have jobs they hate, and to reinforce this notion that a person should do a job that they love this is where both Karnasses and I meet. I also subscribe to this idea. I certainly would like to be able to make some money from doing something that I love.
While I may not have liked the book, I do believe that the book's intention has been accomplished and that is to get me to run more. Good job Dean.
I have to say that initially, I did not like the book. The way the story presents itself, the guy seems like he is bragging. Sure he has done some incredible things running to the South Pole, The Death Valley Race and Running a team race solo. Go Team Dean. There is no denying that. It just came across as look at me, I did this. However, any guy writing a blog is also saying the same thing, "Look at me."
Upon further reflection, I have heard an interview with Karnasses on a podcast Run, Run Live., and I have since changed my mind about him. While I still am not a fan of the book, my thoughts on Karnasses have changed. Many runners think that he has sold out because he makes some money from his running. Being a broke teacher, I would like to be able to make money from something else that I love. And that is what he said, you should do something that you love. There are many people who have jobs they hate, and to reinforce this notion that a person should do a job that they love this is where both Karnasses and I meet. I also subscribe to this idea. I certainly would like to be able to make some money from doing something that I love.
While I may not have liked the book, I do believe that the book's intention has been accomplished and that is to get me to run more. Good job Dean.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Nike Plus Review
Last week I got the Nike plus. Let me start off by saying that I like anything related to my iPod. I am on my third one and when I saw this little thing, it took some time to decide to buy it. It turns out that it is pretty good. I like the way that it records how far I have gone, and my pace and the time I have spent outside running. The really neat thing is the uplink to the Nike plus website. I like that I can put my runs on the internet, in such a fancy manner. I also like the site because people can put their runs into the map feature and I can see where people that live around me ran. I will also put some up on there soon. I am still having some difficulty navigating their site but I think that when I spend a little more time on the site I will figure it out. I will give an update a little later.
The main features that I have explored so far are: Total mileage run during a workout. Basically I use it for telling me how far I have gone. When running you push one button and the lady tells you how far you've gone, etc., etc.
I must admit that this things has 2 drawbacks. First, when you use this I feel like you cannot go out for a run without your iPod. So while I love it now, I think that there will be a time when I do not use it any more. But for the time being, it gives me an excuse to get up off my duff and get out there.
The second drawback is a little more of a technical one. I love to listen to podcasts whenever I am doing anything much more so than music, and when I set up my playlists to include a podcast the iPod skips over the podcast and goes right to the next song. This is generally not a bad thing because I have good taste in music but I also was to have a couple of chuckles while I run. To me there is nothing better than having to stop a run because I am having a laugh.
Oh well, that's enough for now. I will update when I have figured this Nike Plus thing more.
Keep it up.
The main features that I have explored so far are: Total mileage run during a workout. Basically I use it for telling me how far I have gone. When running you push one button and the lady tells you how far you've gone, etc., etc.
I must admit that this things has 2 drawbacks. First, when you use this I feel like you cannot go out for a run without your iPod. So while I love it now, I think that there will be a time when I do not use it any more. But for the time being, it gives me an excuse to get up off my duff and get out there.
The second drawback is a little more of a technical one. I love to listen to podcasts whenever I am doing anything much more so than music, and when I set up my playlists to include a podcast the iPod skips over the podcast and goes right to the next song. This is generally not a bad thing because I have good taste in music but I also was to have a couple of chuckles while I run. To me there is nothing better than having to stop a run because I am having a laugh.
Oh well, that's enough for now. I will update when I have figured this Nike Plus thing more.
Keep it up.
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