Jemez 50k May 16, 2009
33 miles
7781 gain/ 7781 loss
9 hr 54 minutes
I started training for this race towards the end of January with a group from Austin. This would be my first mountain race and my first 50k! I had planned to do a 50k last fall, but one I dnf'ed and then I got runners knee so was unable to do the other ones I had planned. Plus I wanted to take the time to recover for Jemez.
I was healthy during all of the training for Jemez (well I did have a case of bronchitis in Feb where I had to take a couple weeks off), but remained uninjured until 10 days before the race. Not sure what happened to cause this, but I developed a quad strain on my left quad. Any weight bearing activity such as running or jumping hurt. I was very worried that I wouldn't be able to do the race. The race meant so much to me though that I was going to do everything I could to be able to race it. I ended up getting some anti-inflammatory rx from the doctor on the Wednesday before the race and on Friday afternoon was able to jump on my left leg without pain so decided that the race was a go!!! My new race plan was to power walk when it hurt too much, to have fun during the race, and to finish. Time no longer mattered.
Jon, I and Domingo (my dog) drove to Los Alamos from Austin Thursday after work. We stayed the night in Lubbock and arrived in Los Alamos on Friday afternoon. Jon's parents were meeting us there.
Race Day:
I woke up at 4:15am to make the 6am race start. I had a chocolate poptart before the race, yum! Our race started out in the light, the 50 milers were already out on the trail. The race started out on a short section of road at about 6800 ft. When I started running I was VERY surprised at how hard it was to breathe. It wasn't hard breathing just walking around. I had to do 33 miles of this! I started with labored breathing but it did get easier as time went on. At least the breathing part did. During this first section of trail I concentrated on controlling my breathing and to get a good rhythm down.
The next section of trail ascended Guaje Ridge. This was our first big climb of the day, 1540 feet of climbing. Jon would be doing this climb a couple of hours later during the half marathon. John Kuss passed me on this section, he is a faster climber then me. I met a few people on this section of trail and chatting to them made the climb go pretty fast.
The next section went down Guaje Ridge to Caballo Base. This part was fun. It started out downhill so I passed a few people, I love the downhills. It is funny to think when I first started trail running I use to be scared of downhills. I had to be careful on the turns though since I slid a couple of times. After the downhill we came to a waterfall and a short ladder we had to climb. The trail meandered around a creek for a little bit until we came to Caballo Base.
I grabbed a fig newton from the aid station before I started the climb up Caballo Mt. This was the 2nd big climb of the day, up to about 10480 feet. The 50 milers and the fast 50kers were coming down as I was climbing up. It was hard to keep a steady pace on this section since the trail was narrow, and I had to move over a lot to let the downhillers go down. I took a restroom break off trail on the way up. Later on I heard there was a bear near this section of trail. So glad I didn't run into him!!! It was fun seeing so many other people from Austin during this section of the course. I have no idea how long this took to climb since I was watchless but it seemed to take forever. It was definitely worth the climb, the top was beautiful. There was even a cool golden I met on top. I think her and Domingo would make good friends....
Coming down Caballo Mt was my favorite part of the race. I got pretty good speed going down and really only had to stop once when my nozzle from my hydration pack fell off. When I got to the bottom I was surprised I was there already since the time went by so fast. Time goes by fast when you are having fun.
By now my left quad was hurting but only when I ran. Also my right Achilles started hurting. Must be from all the uphills. I started out walking the next section to pipeline. I ran/walked the rest of this section until it got to a pretty big/steep climb. This climb was my 3rd big climb of the day, it was hard! Robert, my coach, was volunteering at the pipeline aid station. As I went to grad a p&j sandwich he told me I was limping :) I didn't care though, I just planned to walk if I hurt to much to run.
From pipeline I made it over to the ski lodge. This was an out and back section of the trail. Wow, this part of the course was so much different then the rest. There was a big field of aspen trees. I hadn't realized they had those in New Mexico. I was hurting and tired during this section so did a lot of walking.
When I got to the ski lodge I was happily surprised to see Jon and his dad there. I spend my longest time at this aid station, they even had real bathrooms there! I dropped my pack and camera off here and carried one water bottle the rest of the race.
I made my way back to pipeline and headed back up Guaje. This started up a hill which was a wide jeep road with beautiful views of the town. Too bad I no longer had my camera. I was mostly alone during the rest of the race so turned on my ipod (low volume) to keep me company. There was a girl I would see during the rest of the race, I would pass her on the downhills and she would pass me on the flats and uphills. There was a great single track section after the uphill through the trees which was mostly downhill. For the rest of the race I ran most of the downhills (Even though it hurt my quad!) and walked the flats and hills.
Jon met me to run the last 2 miles with me. I had been looking forward to this. There was a very fun xmas themed aid station at 2 miles from the finish. All that was missing was xmas cookies. I wonder if they had any earlier....
The race had an evil little climb near the end. I got cheered in by the Austin group as I finished :) Plus my dog and Jon's parents were there. I was so thrilled to have completed my first 50k.
There was nothing I would have changed about this race. The weather was perfect, the scenery and views were more then I could ask for, the aid stations had everything I wanted (I barely had to eat the food I brought), not once did I get lost or confused, and the course was challenging with fun downhills.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Friday, May 22, 2009
May 9-10
Saturday:
Met with the Chiropractor on Friday. He suggested trying to run this weekend. I tried running in Jon's neighborhood with him but I started out limping so ended up doing a run/walk. We ran/walked about 20-25 minutes.
Sunday:
Went to the gym. I did some arms and the elliptical for 45 minutes.
Met with the Chiropractor on Friday. He suggested trying to run this weekend. I tried running in Jon's neighborhood with him but I started out limping so ended up doing a run/walk. We ran/walked about 20-25 minutes.
Sunday:
Went to the gym. I did some arms and the elliptical for 45 minutes.
Monday, May 4, 2009
May 4 - 8 Workouts
Monday: Massage
Ah finally over my poison ivy so I was able to get a much needed massage today. She worked on a tightness up by my IT band that was causing tight quads and my neck needed work since it has been bothering me lately. I laughed during my massage today (and not only during the feet like normal), when a muscle on my right upper leg was being released. I guess some people cry! Glad I laughed instead!
Tuesday: 40 min elliptical
I had a really bad headache this afternoon and it was really really hot out. I had thought of running town lake after work since I was meeting Jeanne and Cezanne for dinner at Somnio's at 7:30. I decided to go to the gym instead and hoped it would make me feel better. It did make my neck feel better, but I still had a residual headache that went away when I met them for dinner. I don't like the gym down south as much, but I did 40 min on the elliptical. It felt good - and the time went by pretty fast :) All of the stair masters were being used...
Wednesday: Legs #3 & Rogue Speed workout (3 miles)
I met Val this morning at the gym. I skipped the quad exercises but did the rest. Starting this afternoon my leg started hurting more when I put pressure on it, mostly when I get up from a sit. Not sure what I could have done this morning to aggravate it.
I was dreading the Rogue workout tonight because of the temperatures. I ended up cutting my workout short because my quad was bothering me and affecting my gait. I did 1 mile warmup, 1 mile fast, 1 mile moderate (ending with a short cool down). This was suppose to be 5 miles total adding another mile fast and another mile cool down).
Thursday:
I rolled my legs this morning with the TP. It hasn't made them feel better yet. I am going to skip the rogue workout tonight but still plan to meet up with them for dinner to discuss any last minute race questions. I have a dr appt tomorrow morning so am hoping that will help my quad heal faster!
Ah finally over my poison ivy so I was able to get a much needed massage today. She worked on a tightness up by my IT band that was causing tight quads and my neck needed work since it has been bothering me lately. I laughed during my massage today (and not only during the feet like normal), when a muscle on my right upper leg was being released. I guess some people cry! Glad I laughed instead!
Tuesday: 40 min elliptical
I had a really bad headache this afternoon and it was really really hot out. I had thought of running town lake after work since I was meeting Jeanne and Cezanne for dinner at Somnio's at 7:30. I decided to go to the gym instead and hoped it would make me feel better. It did make my neck feel better, but I still had a residual headache that went away when I met them for dinner. I don't like the gym down south as much, but I did 40 min on the elliptical. It felt good - and the time went by pretty fast :) All of the stair masters were being used...
Wednesday: Legs #3 & Rogue Speed workout (3 miles)
I met Val this morning at the gym. I skipped the quad exercises but did the rest. Starting this afternoon my leg started hurting more when I put pressure on it, mostly when I get up from a sit. Not sure what I could have done this morning to aggravate it.
I was dreading the Rogue workout tonight because of the temperatures. I ended up cutting my workout short because my quad was bothering me and affecting my gait. I did 1 mile warmup, 1 mile fast, 1 mile moderate (ending with a short cool down). This was suppose to be 5 miles total adding another mile fast and another mile cool down).
Thursday:
I rolled my legs this morning with the TP. It hasn't made them feel better yet. I am going to skip the rogue workout tonight but still plan to meet up with them for dinner to discuss any last minute race questions. I have a dr appt tomorrow morning so am hoping that will help my quad heal faster!
May 2-3
Saturday: nothing :)
I decided to sleep in today and not run with the group at Barton Creek since I would be running at the Maze tomorrow. I had thought of getting in a run later in the day, but had a headache all afternoon and decided not to.
Sunday: 10k Maze (1 hr 1 min) & Hot Yoga
I ran the Maze 10k this morning, it was nice and humid! This was a fun race though with a couple of creek crossings and not too muddy. I definitely could have gone faster on this since I wasn't tired enough at the end. I started out too far in the back of this race and started out too slow. I wanted to go faster on the downhills and windy parts but had trouble since I was around people most of the race.
In the afternoon I went to hot yoga, I love this class and am so glad I went. Wonder if I should go next weekend since it is so close to my race.
I decided to sleep in today and not run with the group at Barton Creek since I would be running at the Maze tomorrow. I had thought of getting in a run later in the day, but had a headache all afternoon and decided not to.
Sunday: 10k Maze (1 hr 1 min) & Hot Yoga
I ran the Maze 10k this morning, it was nice and humid! This was a fun race though with a couple of creek crossings and not too muddy. I definitely could have gone faster on this since I wasn't tired enough at the end. I started out too far in the back of this race and started out too slow. I wanted to go faster on the downhills and windy parts but had trouble since I was around people most of the race.
In the afternoon I went to hot yoga, I love this class and am so glad I went. Wonder if I should go next weekend since it is so close to my race.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Workouts April 27 - May 1st
Monday: rest
I went to the doctor today to get some poison ivy medicine since I am still having trouble sleeping.
Tuesday: Arms
I met Val this morning for an arms workout, I wanted to give my legs a little more rest from the Guads. I had planned to run after work but was feeling really tired and didn't feel like doing a run in the dark (after dinner) by myself.
Wednesday: 6 mile easy run RiverPlace
It was breezy, humid but I had a nice run. Kept about a 10 min ave pace (this pace includes walking the country club 1 mile hill)
Thursday: Legs & 6 mile run Moonshadow w/ Rogue
I met Val this morning for legs. I did a little less weight on the quads and hams today because of the Guads last weekend.
We were to take this easy if we had just done the Guads or are racing this weekend. I am doing both so I took it easy :) There was about 1/2 mile to the trail start, and we did a 2 1/2 mile loop twice. I was careful on a lot of it since I fall here alot..... Was humid and hot but I didn't mind that for this short distance.
Friday: Rest day
I have been lax on abs, hope to get some in today.
I went to the doctor today to get some poison ivy medicine since I am still having trouble sleeping.
Tuesday: Arms
I met Val this morning for an arms workout, I wanted to give my legs a little more rest from the Guads. I had planned to run after work but was feeling really tired and didn't feel like doing a run in the dark (after dinner) by myself.
Wednesday: 6 mile easy run RiverPlace
It was breezy, humid but I had a nice run. Kept about a 10 min ave pace (this pace includes walking the country club 1 mile hill)
Thursday: Legs & 6 mile run Moonshadow w/ Rogue
I met Val this morning for legs. I did a little less weight on the quads and hams today because of the Guads last weekend.
We were to take this easy if we had just done the Guads or are racing this weekend. I am doing both so I took it easy :) There was about 1/2 mile to the trail start, and we did a 2 1/2 mile loop twice. I was careful on a lot of it since I fall here alot..... Was humid and hot but I didn't mind that for this short distance.
Friday: Rest day
I have been lax on abs, hope to get some in today.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Workouts April 20 - 22
Monday: nothing....
Feeling lazy today, poison ivy was really bothering me.
Tuesday: 30 min run River Place
I wanted to sleep in this morning since I had taken benadryl the night before. So I canceled my workout with Val this morning.
A 30 minute run was on the schedule today. Jon and I ran from work to suntree park after work. It was pretty hot out. My poison ivy still sucks - it is over most of my body.
Wednesday:
I need to pack for my guads camping/running trip tomorrow, we are leaving around 5am. But I am hoping to get in a short workout tonight.
Thursday: Drive to the Guads
Left at 5am for the drive to the Guads. Next time I don't think we need to leave so early, 8am or so would be fine!
Feeling lazy today, poison ivy was really bothering me.
Tuesday: 30 min run River Place
I wanted to sleep in this morning since I had taken benadryl the night before. So I canceled my workout with Val this morning.
A 30 minute run was on the schedule today. Jon and I ran from work to suntree park after work. It was pretty hot out. My poison ivy still sucks - it is over most of my body.
Wednesday:
I need to pack for my guads camping/running trip tomorrow, we are leaving around 5am. But I am hoping to get in a short workout tonight.
Thursday: Drive to the Guads
Left at 5am for the drive to the Guads. Next time I don't think we need to leave so early, 8am or so would be fine!
Sunday April 19th - TownLake 10 mile run
I dropped my nephew off at the airport this morning. I attempted to run Barton Creek starting at Spyglass, but when I got there the trail was still closed from all of the rain from the past couple of days. So I took off to run the 10 mile loop at Town Lake instead. It was a beautiful sunny morning. It was such a beautiful morning to be running around the lake. I got kinda tired of running though, I had forgotten my ipod at home and was running alone. I finished around 11:00 at Butler park and people were lining up for a free (i think) yoga class. Too bad I left my yoga mat at home, it would have been a nice way to end my run.
My pace was an average of 9:22 min/miles. The first 3 miles were about 9:00 min/mile pace.
My pace was an average of 9:22 min/miles. The first 3 miles were about 9:00 min/mile pace.
Monday, April 13, 2009
April 13-17 Workouts
Monday: Legs & Stair Master
I met Val at the gym this morning for leg workout card #1. This card takes a long time since there are lots of single leg exercises. I did them all except one ab workout (which is fine since I did abs last night) and one back exercise. I want to try to get the back one in next time. My legs don't really seem to be getting stronger - at least I haven't been able to increase any of the weights yet.
I wanted to run tonight (perfect weather) but needed to get home to walk Domingo. It was nice weather for walking him. After the walk, I walked over to Pure Austin for a stair master workout. I did 45 minutes varying from level 8 - 12. This ended up being about 4 miles. I was sweating a lot from this workout!
Tuesday: Walnut Creek Run - The Maze Loop 5 miles
I had planned to meet Val this morning for an arm workout but didn't wake up in time. Luckily either did Val! I think we both needed the extra sleep, that is an important part of training too.
Wednesday: Mountain bike Walnut Creek/Town Lake about 9 miles
My nephew Bret came in last night. I rented him a mountain bike and we went to Walnut Creek. I forget my GPS, but we biked for about 1 hr 15 min, so maybe 6 miles. After lunch we biked the Town Lake 3 mile loop before returning the bike.
Thursday: 3 mile hike Turkey Creek
I took a 1/2 day today. It was cloudy but not raining so Bret and I hiked Emma Long Turkey Creek with Domingo. There were only a couple of other dogs there. I wanted to get a long walk in with Domingo before the rain.
Friday:
Saturday: RHR rain party + rock climbing
Woke up this morning before 5am to get to the race. I was excited about running in the mud but hoped the rain wouldn't be too hard. When we got there we found out that the race had been canceled due to lightning. It was sad, but it was still nice saying hi to everyone. Bret, Jon and I went to breakfast, picked up mingo, bathed him and then went to an indoor rock climbing gym for 3 hours. It was a lot of fun!
I met Val at the gym this morning for leg workout card #1. This card takes a long time since there are lots of single leg exercises. I did them all except one ab workout (which is fine since I did abs last night) and one back exercise. I want to try to get the back one in next time. My legs don't really seem to be getting stronger - at least I haven't been able to increase any of the weights yet.
I wanted to run tonight (perfect weather) but needed to get home to walk Domingo. It was nice weather for walking him. After the walk, I walked over to Pure Austin for a stair master workout. I did 45 minutes varying from level 8 - 12. This ended up being about 4 miles. I was sweating a lot from this workout!
Tuesday: Walnut Creek Run - The Maze Loop 5 miles
I had planned to meet Val this morning for an arm workout but didn't wake up in time. Luckily either did Val! I think we both needed the extra sleep, that is an important part of training too.
Wednesday: Mountain bike Walnut Creek/Town Lake about 9 miles
My nephew Bret came in last night. I rented him a mountain bike and we went to Walnut Creek. I forget my GPS, but we biked for about 1 hr 15 min, so maybe 6 miles. After lunch we biked the Town Lake 3 mile loop before returning the bike.
Thursday: 3 mile hike Turkey Creek
I took a 1/2 day today. It was cloudy but not raining so Bret and I hiked Emma Long Turkey Creek with Domingo. There were only a couple of other dogs there. I wanted to get a long walk in with Domingo before the rain.
Friday:
Saturday: RHR rain party + rock climbing
Woke up this morning before 5am to get to the race. I was excited about running in the mud but hoped the rain wouldn't be too hard. When we got there we found out that the race had been canceled due to lightning. It was sad, but it was still nice saying hi to everyone. Bret, Jon and I went to breakfast, picked up mingo, bathed him and then went to an indoor rock climbing gym for 3 hours. It was a lot of fun!
Easter Weekend
This was a rest weekend and I did just that! On Saturday I was missing running. Sunday was hot and muggy in the afternoon (following a morning rain) so I wasn't tempted to run. I did a core workout last night though. http://coachingendurance.com/blog/2009/01/around-world-core-workout.shtml
This is a pretty good workout that I want to start doing twice a week.
This is a pretty good workout that I want to start doing twice a week.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
April 6 - 10 Workouts
Monday: 40 min stairmaster
I wanted to give my running a break today, so did the stair master as x-training. I have been doing the stair master on Monday's anyways lately. I did 10 minutes at level 8, 10 minutes at level 9, 10 minutes at level 10 and the last 10 minutes at level 8. I remembered my headphones so the time went by fairly quickly!
Tuesday: Weight Training Legs
I met Val this morning to do out workout #3 card. My left knee was hurting a little during the squats and leg press so I reduced the weight and they felt fine.
Wednesday: Rogue Quality Speed Workout - 5.4 miles
We met today at this water quality management trail just off of Spicewood Springs and 360. This is where the early morning classes were help for the Bandera training that I never made it too.... since it was too early for me. I thought this was going to be a boring course, but I was surprised! It was a cute little trail, one I might bring Domingo to sometime.
This workout started out at 88 degrees, so Robert gave us the option of doing 5 loops instead of 6, I opted for the 5. I think I could have done 6, but by the point I came to that decision I had already done the cool down. The first 2 miles were the hardest because of the heat, it got better after that. The workout was 1 loop easy, 1 fast, 1 moderate, 1 fast, 1 cool down. This was a good workout for me! Plus nothing hurt at all :)
Thursday: Rogue Quality Hill Workout - 5 miles
Summer is early this year in Austin. Today it was in the low 90s for the start of this run. Even though most of the run was shaded the heat affected me during most of it. We ran Ken's loop as an out n back. I love running here normally, it is very fun. I wasn't having fun today though until about the last 1 1/2 miles of the run. It actually ended up being a pretty good run though.
A bunch of us went to Mangia after for dinner where we met Joe, Joyce and one of their sons.
Friday: Yoga & Arms
Normally Friday is a rest day for me, but since this weekend is rest I wanted to work out today. Plus I couldn't get up yesterday morning to do arms :) I went to the yoga/pilates class at lunch. I had a headache so was hoping this would help. It helped for a little but I ended up taking an hour nap in the afternoon. This class was ok - very relaxing and laid back.
After walking Domingo, I went to the gym to do my arm workout card #2. The gym was so quiet, I loved it!
I wanted to give my running a break today, so did the stair master as x-training. I have been doing the stair master on Monday's anyways lately. I did 10 minutes at level 8, 10 minutes at level 9, 10 minutes at level 10 and the last 10 minutes at level 8. I remembered my headphones so the time went by fairly quickly!
Tuesday: Weight Training Legs
I met Val this morning to do out workout #3 card. My left knee was hurting a little during the squats and leg press so I reduced the weight and they felt fine.
Wednesday: Rogue Quality Speed Workout - 5.4 miles
We met today at this water quality management trail just off of Spicewood Springs and 360. This is where the early morning classes were help for the Bandera training that I never made it too.... since it was too early for me. I thought this was going to be a boring course, but I was surprised! It was a cute little trail, one I might bring Domingo to sometime.
This workout started out at 88 degrees, so Robert gave us the option of doing 5 loops instead of 6, I opted for the 5. I think I could have done 6, but by the point I came to that decision I had already done the cool down. The first 2 miles were the hardest because of the heat, it got better after that. The workout was 1 loop easy, 1 fast, 1 moderate, 1 fast, 1 cool down. This was a good workout for me! Plus nothing hurt at all :)
Thursday: Rogue Quality Hill Workout - 5 miles
Summer is early this year in Austin. Today it was in the low 90s for the start of this run. Even though most of the run was shaded the heat affected me during most of it. We ran Ken's loop as an out n back. I love running here normally, it is very fun. I wasn't having fun today though until about the last 1 1/2 miles of the run. It actually ended up being a pretty good run though.
A bunch of us went to Mangia after for dinner where we met Joe, Joyce and one of their sons.
Friday: Yoga & Arms
Normally Friday is a rest day for me, but since this weekend is rest I wanted to work out today. Plus I couldn't get up yesterday morning to do arms :) I went to the yoga/pilates class at lunch. I had a headache so was hoping this would help. It helped for a little but I ended up taking an hour nap in the afternoon. This class was ok - very relaxing and laid back.
After walking Domingo, I went to the gym to do my arm workout card #2. The gym was so quiet, I loved it!
Monday, April 6, 2009
Sunday April 5: 3 mile road run
3 mile road run - easy paced
Jon and I did a run around his neighborhood this evening as a recovery run for the day before. My left calf was tight from the run yesterday and both knees hurt a little during the start of the run. It must have just been stiffness, since shortly into the run I felt fine. It was perfect weather for the run. I had wanted to go to Yoga today but it was so nice outside that I decided to spend it outside with Domingo and we all went to Ski Shores for a late lunch/early dinner to enjoy the nice day.
Jon and I did a run around his neighborhood this evening as a recovery run for the day before. My left calf was tight from the run yesterday and both knees hurt a little during the start of the run. It must have just been stiffness, since shortly into the run I felt fine. It was perfect weather for the run. I had wanted to go to Yoga today but it was so nice outside that I decided to spend it outside with Domingo and we all went to Ski Shores for a late lunch/early dinner to enjoy the nice day.
Saturday April 4 - Bastrop Park 26 mile run
This run ended up going surprising well considering the heat/humidity and my poor nutrition during the run. This is a very hard distance for me to run. We started out at 7am at Bastrop State Park. The workout was to run the "Spokes"(6 miles) + one loop of the purple trail (7 miles) and then repeat to get the 26 miles. The "Spokes" were a way to add hills into our workout. The morning started out very humid so the first set of spokes plus the purple loop was tiring. I said bye to Jon after this loop since he was done with his workout and getting ready to leave.
Stephanie and I set out together for the second loop of the spokes. It was less humid by now, but I was still recovering from it and very very thirsty. I took a few bites of my p&j sandwich while running and drank a lot of water. The sandwich wasn't very appetizing to me so I only got a few bites down. Stephanie got ahead of me and I caught up with her doing the loop. We both ran over to the restroom in the campground and washed our faces with water - it felt good!
After the spokes I grabbed some watermelon at the car. That was the only thing that was sounding good to me. I also was eyeing Stephanies avocado - I have to bring some next time. Stephanie gave me half of her p & honey sandwich but I only took a bite or 2. Robert was out of water here! I drank most of my camelpack during the spokes so was really disappointed and wanted cold water. Luckily Joel (from Joe's group) had a big cold water jug in his car and I filled up with that. I was so thankful for that!!
Stephanie, Joel and I took off shortly after for our last loop of the purple trail. Joel didn't plan to do the whole loop - just an out and back. They had me start out front - Joel was behind me for awhile. This really mentally helped me push through the first half of the loop knowing he was close behind. I never actually knew when he was no longer behind me. I took my last gu with about 4-5 miles left, I was feeling my energy draining. Around this same time I put on my ipod- both gave me a much needed energy burst! At about 1-2 miles from the finish I had a stomach cramp. Just a minute or two of walking made it better and I was able to run the rest of the way in!
After finishing I felt like I could have run more. I hung around for awhile waiting for the others to come in. This was a very long day but I am so glad I did it! My garmin recorded 5 1/2 hrs of run time, I think it was closer to 6 hrs including the breaks at the car.
Stephanie and I set out together for the second loop of the spokes. It was less humid by now, but I was still recovering from it and very very thirsty. I took a few bites of my p&j sandwich while running and drank a lot of water. The sandwich wasn't very appetizing to me so I only got a few bites down. Stephanie got ahead of me and I caught up with her doing the loop. We both ran over to the restroom in the campground and washed our faces with water - it felt good!
After the spokes I grabbed some watermelon at the car. That was the only thing that was sounding good to me. I also was eyeing Stephanies avocado - I have to bring some next time. Stephanie gave me half of her p & honey sandwich but I only took a bite or 2. Robert was out of water here! I drank most of my camelpack during the spokes so was really disappointed and wanted cold water. Luckily Joel (from Joe's group) had a big cold water jug in his car and I filled up with that. I was so thankful for that!!
Stephanie, Joel and I took off shortly after for our last loop of the purple trail. Joel didn't plan to do the whole loop - just an out and back. They had me start out front - Joel was behind me for awhile. This really mentally helped me push through the first half of the loop knowing he was close behind. I never actually knew when he was no longer behind me. I took my last gu with about 4-5 miles left, I was feeling my energy draining. Around this same time I put on my ipod- both gave me a much needed energy burst! At about 1-2 miles from the finish I had a stomach cramp. Just a minute or two of walking made it better and I was able to run the rest of the way in!
After finishing I felt like I could have run more. I hung around for awhile waiting for the others to come in. This was a very long day but I am so glad I did it! My garmin recorded 5 1/2 hrs of run time, I think it was closer to 6 hrs including the breaks at the car.
Monday, March 30, 2009
March 30 - April 3 Workouts
Monday: Weights (legs) + 30 min stair master + 3 mile walk
I don't usually put my walks in here, but I walked 3 times to the park with Domingo today that it felt like training! Today was Val and my last workout with Ryon. I will miss these workouts even though Val and I still plan to work out together. I love how he pushes us and shows us when we do the exercises wrong - especially when we get fatigued. I stayed after for 30 min of stair master at level 8. I remembered my headphones today so the 30 minutes went by a lot faster while I listened to some unsolved mysteries :)
Tuesday: 45 min easy run Quarry Lake & massage
I had a massage at lunch today. My legs were feeling good, there wasn't any special areas she had to work on. I have been doing TP more lately, maybe that has been helping.
Since I had the massage I wasn't able to leave work early enough to do a road run (since I had to get back to walk domingo). So I grabbed a quick dinner (pizza!) and then went for a run around Quarry lake from 8:15-9pm. This was the only place I could think of that would be safe to run in the dark by myself. It was perfect weather, I kept this as any easy run. I saw Alaska out there- too bad Domingo wasn't with me to play with her.
Wednesday: Arm and core workout
I had planned to do a hilly road run after work at River Place but Val asked if I could help with Logan. Helping out with Logan fell through but I was still unable to make this run before it got dark. So after eating and walking Domingo I decided to go for an arm workout at the gym instead. It was so quiet this time of night, I almost had the whole place to myself! I did workout card #1. I am so weak in my arms, I need to do this workout at least once a week. I drank 1/2 of a chocolate milk as a recovery drink (yum). I need to stock up on this.....
Thursday: Rogue hill workout - 8 miles
I was dreading this workout and started the run feeling hungry, so I wasn't sure how it would go. As usual once I got there I was no longer dreading the workout but looking forward to it. We started out going down Fox Hollow to Shan's loop where we were to do 4 repeats. It was about 2 miles to Shan's loop, a longer warm up then usual. I hadn't done this loop since last summer so was looking forward to it. The loop has an uphill/small flat/downhill/followed by a pretty long flat. Each loop was 1 mile. This loop was a lot easier then last week - not as steep. Plus the weather was better today - maybe even perfect :) I did 4 loops and felt like I could have done more. I was tired during the 1 1/2 cool down though. All of the uphills were runnable and I pushed on them and also pushed hard on the downhills.
During my last loop, someone new to the class started out running right behind me. She was staying right on my tail, so I kept asking her if she wanted to pass but she said no she wanted to "hang" behind me. I really hate when people do this, they should dictate their own pace and not use mine. I again asked her on an uphill section since it was getting annoying and she said she was using my foot placement! Ugh - again not good for her. She shouldn't be looking where I put my feet and figure it out for herself. I kinda lost her after that so I hope I wasn't harsh on her :)
Friday: rest
I don't usually put my walks in here, but I walked 3 times to the park with Domingo today that it felt like training! Today was Val and my last workout with Ryon. I will miss these workouts even though Val and I still plan to work out together. I love how he pushes us and shows us when we do the exercises wrong - especially when we get fatigued. I stayed after for 30 min of stair master at level 8. I remembered my headphones today so the 30 minutes went by a lot faster while I listened to some unsolved mysteries :)
Tuesday: 45 min easy run Quarry Lake & massage
I had a massage at lunch today. My legs were feeling good, there wasn't any special areas she had to work on. I have been doing TP more lately, maybe that has been helping.
Since I had the massage I wasn't able to leave work early enough to do a road run (since I had to get back to walk domingo). So I grabbed a quick dinner (pizza!) and then went for a run around Quarry lake from 8:15-9pm. This was the only place I could think of that would be safe to run in the dark by myself. It was perfect weather, I kept this as any easy run. I saw Alaska out there- too bad Domingo wasn't with me to play with her.
Wednesday: Arm and core workout
I had planned to do a hilly road run after work at River Place but Val asked if I could help with Logan. Helping out with Logan fell through but I was still unable to make this run before it got dark. So after eating and walking Domingo I decided to go for an arm workout at the gym instead. It was so quiet this time of night, I almost had the whole place to myself! I did workout card #1. I am so weak in my arms, I need to do this workout at least once a week. I drank 1/2 of a chocolate milk as a recovery drink (yum). I need to stock up on this.....
Thursday: Rogue hill workout - 8 miles
I was dreading this workout and started the run feeling hungry, so I wasn't sure how it would go. As usual once I got there I was no longer dreading the workout but looking forward to it. We started out going down Fox Hollow to Shan's loop where we were to do 4 repeats. It was about 2 miles to Shan's loop, a longer warm up then usual. I hadn't done this loop since last summer so was looking forward to it. The loop has an uphill/small flat/downhill/followed by a pretty long flat. Each loop was 1 mile. This loop was a lot easier then last week - not as steep. Plus the weather was better today - maybe even perfect :) I did 4 loops and felt like I could have done more. I was tired during the 1 1/2 cool down though. All of the uphills were runnable and I pushed on them and also pushed hard on the downhills.
During my last loop, someone new to the class started out running right behind me. She was staying right on my tail, so I kept asking her if she wanted to pass but she said no she wanted to "hang" behind me. I really hate when people do this, they should dictate their own pace and not use mine. I again asked her on an uphill section since it was getting annoying and she said she was using my foot placement! Ugh - again not good for her. She shouldn't be looking where I put my feet and figure it out for herself. I kinda lost her after that so I hope I wasn't harsh on her :)
Friday: rest
Sunday March 29 - Hot Yoga
I decided to sleep in this morning and not run the Cap 10k. I got up at 8 and so did jon. After he showered he decided he still wanted to do the race :) So Domingo and I took him down to the start of the race. He missed the start of the time run and started with the fun run people at 9am. Meanwhile Domingo and I went to one of my favorite coffee shops - Bouldin for some coffee, breakfast taco and blueberry muffin. It was all yummy. We parked at the Parmer event center and walked a little around town lake while waiting for Jon to finish the run. I was getting a little jealous that I wasn't running. It was perfect weather with blue skies and I wasn't feeling tired from the day before (since I slept in....). I am glad I got to see Jon though (even though it was too crowded to see him actually finish) since he goes to a lot of my races. He did really well and would have probably done better if he started with the timed runners.
After running we all went to Natural Gardner - what an awesome place! And then I bought 2 pairs of shoes at Rogue. I bought one road pair and one pair of Patagonias. A few of my trail running friends bought the new patagonias and loved them, so I thought I would give them a try. There was a pair of Vasque shoes that I REALLY wanted but thought it might be overboard buying 3 pairs in one day. I think I will need to sneak back to buy them :)
I went to Hot Yoga at Quarry Lake at 3pm. I LOVE this yoga. I really want to go every week but things come up. With all of the other activities today I didn't have any time for running.
After running we all went to Natural Gardner - what an awesome place! And then I bought 2 pairs of shoes at Rogue. I bought one road pair and one pair of Patagonias. A few of my trail running friends bought the new patagonias and loved them, so I thought I would give them a try. There was a pair of Vasque shoes that I REALLY wanted but thought it might be overboard buying 3 pairs in one day. I think I will need to sneak back to buy them :)
I went to Hot Yoga at Quarry Lake at 3pm. I LOVE this yoga. I really want to go every week but things come up. With all of the other activities today I didn't have any time for running.
Saturday March 28 Bandera 22 mile run
Originally Jon and I had planned to camp out for this run. But it was cold, and we didn't have our camping supplies packed and we weren't able to leave work early. So instead we woke up at 4am and left at 4:20am for our drive to Bandera! We brought Domingo with us since it wouldn't be too hot in the car while Jon was running his 11 miles. I am glad that Jon was sweet and drove. I stayed awake the whole time too. We stopped on the drive down at Whataburger for some breakfast. It was ok but I would prefer McDonald's or BurgerKing next time. We got to Bandera early and had time to walk Domingo. Domingo wanted to stay outside and play since he thought there weather was perfect - it was about 39 degrees!
The first 11 mile loop went really well. My legs were feeling fresh the whole time and I had a blast on the downhills. There was someone (not from my class so I don't know their name) who stayed a little ahead of me and Cris Strong was behind me for most of this run. She keep a little distance so I wasn't feeling rushed or anything. I was able to maintain a consistent pace throughout this loop. I stopped a couple of times briefly to walk and eat a kashi cereal bar. Also (maybe cuz of the cold?) I had to stop each time through the loop for a pee break :)
I came in from the first loop feeling good. Jon wanted to go out again for a little bit, so we took domingo up to sky in the island. A lot of people skipped this on the second loop so I would end up running the second loop almost all alone. It was confusing, since some people skipped it they started after me and finished before me w/o even passing! I didn't realize this at the time so kept slowed down a little when I got lonely since I thought they would catch up to me.....
This second loop wasn't very eventful. The downhills weren't as fun this time and I was tired by the end of the run.
The first 11 mile loop went really well. My legs were feeling fresh the whole time and I had a blast on the downhills. There was someone (not from my class so I don't know their name) who stayed a little ahead of me and Cris Strong was behind me for most of this run. She keep a little distance so I wasn't feeling rushed or anything. I was able to maintain a consistent pace throughout this loop. I stopped a couple of times briefly to walk and eat a kashi cereal bar. Also (maybe cuz of the cold?) I had to stop each time through the loop for a pee break :)
I came in from the first loop feeling good. Jon wanted to go out again for a little bit, so we took domingo up to sky in the island. A lot of people skipped this on the second loop so I would end up running the second loop almost all alone. It was confusing, since some people skipped it they started after me and finished before me w/o even passing! I didn't realize this at the time so kept slowed down a little when I got lonely since I thought they would catch up to me.....
This second loop wasn't very eventful. The downhills weren't as fun this time and I was tired by the end of the run.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
March 23-27 Workouts
Monday: Strength Training (legs) + 30 min stairmaster
Val and I met Ryon today. We only have 1 more workout with Ryon after this :( It is nice having him to push us and to let us know when we do the exercises wrong. After the workout I stayed and did the stairmaster for 30 minutes at level 8. This is a lower intensity level then last week.
Tuesday: Riverplace hilly road run - 5 miles
Jon ran this route with me after work. It was humid from the rain early in the day. This is the same route that I did last Tuesday by myself. I was glad to have the company today :) The first 3 miles is mostly flat and downhill, a lot of downhill. Then at Woodlands park, starts the ascent. The first mile of this is trail. The trail has a creek running along side it and is so beautiful. The trail lets out at the bottom of a big hill by the Riverplace country club. The last mile continues uphill until the finish. I felt good during this run, tired by the time I got off of the trail for the last mile of road climbing.
Wednesday: 60 min bike indoors + core
I went to a nutritional seminar at Rogue today. It was a lot of formulas about calories, protein and water. I didn't find it very useful and was bored by it. After the seminar I went to Whole Foods and had some salmon, veggies and roasted potatoes. It was so yummy! I love this new Whole Foods and wish I lived closer to this one.
I did a workout at Pure Austin downtown after. The atmosphere at this location is so different then Quarry Lake! It is more about looking good and being seen. By the time I got there it was almost 8pm so it wasn't very crowded. I did the bike for 40 minutes. I forgot my bike shoes so had to use the clips. It kinda sucked, I should have gone back to the car to get my bike shoes. I also should have wore my bike shorts. I had to stand up for the last 10 minutes to relieve my tush :) I kept the bike ride at an easy pace. After that I did a core workout for about 10-15 minutes. My goal is to incorporate core into more of my workouts.
Thursday: Rogue hill workout HOL - 7 miles
Our group met at the hill of life tonight for a hill workout. Robert found a gradual "runnable" hill. We did about 1 mile warm up to the start of the workout. From there we were to do 4-6 repeats of a 1/2 mile uphill followed by recovery, and then the 1/2 mile downhill followed by recovery. We were to run both the up hill and the down hills hard. For the first loop it was a little tricky to keep on course but after that it was easy. This was a cardio extensive exercise, I loved the downhills! It was a little muddy from rain earlier in the day but not too bad where it stuck to the shoes. I only did 4 loops since I wasn't feeling well today but it was still 7 miles so I don't feel too bad!
Friday: rest
Val and I met Ryon today. We only have 1 more workout with Ryon after this :( It is nice having him to push us and to let us know when we do the exercises wrong. After the workout I stayed and did the stairmaster for 30 minutes at level 8. This is a lower intensity level then last week.
Tuesday: Riverplace hilly road run - 5 miles
Jon ran this route with me after work. It was humid from the rain early in the day. This is the same route that I did last Tuesday by myself. I was glad to have the company today :) The first 3 miles is mostly flat and downhill, a lot of downhill. Then at Woodlands park, starts the ascent. The first mile of this is trail. The trail has a creek running along side it and is so beautiful. The trail lets out at the bottom of a big hill by the Riverplace country club. The last mile continues uphill until the finish. I felt good during this run, tired by the time I got off of the trail for the last mile of road climbing.
Wednesday: 60 min bike indoors + core
I went to a nutritional seminar at Rogue today. It was a lot of formulas about calories, protein and water. I didn't find it very useful and was bored by it. After the seminar I went to Whole Foods and had some salmon, veggies and roasted potatoes. It was so yummy! I love this new Whole Foods and wish I lived closer to this one.
I did a workout at Pure Austin downtown after. The atmosphere at this location is so different then Quarry Lake! It is more about looking good and being seen. By the time I got there it was almost 8pm so it wasn't very crowded. I did the bike for 40 minutes. I forgot my bike shoes so had to use the clips. It kinda sucked, I should have gone back to the car to get my bike shoes. I also should have wore my bike shorts. I had to stand up for the last 10 minutes to relieve my tush :) I kept the bike ride at an easy pace. After that I did a core workout for about 10-15 minutes. My goal is to incorporate core into more of my workouts.
Thursday: Rogue hill workout HOL - 7 miles
Our group met at the hill of life tonight for a hill workout. Robert found a gradual "runnable" hill. We did about 1 mile warm up to the start of the workout. From there we were to do 4-6 repeats of a 1/2 mile uphill followed by recovery, and then the 1/2 mile downhill followed by recovery. We were to run both the up hill and the down hills hard. For the first loop it was a little tricky to keep on course but after that it was easy. This was a cardio extensive exercise, I loved the downhills! It was a little muddy from rain earlier in the day but not too bad where it stuck to the shoes. I only did 4 loops since I wasn't feeling well today but it was still 7 miles so I don't feel too bad!
Friday: rest
March 21-22 Weekend Rest!
This was a rest weekend :) Jon and I went to Canyon of the Eagles. Most of the really hilly trails in the park are closed this time of year because of the golden warblers. We did a pretty long hike though on Saturday, it was really pretty! Need to come back next fall to hike the hilly trails.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
March 16-20 workouts
Monday: Arm & core strengthening and 30 min stair master
Val and I met ryon today for an arm workout. My arms and shoulders are so weak! After, I did 30 min on the stair master at level 10. It was very tiring for me but I am hoping it will help with my training for Jemez.
Tuesday: 5 mile run Riverplace
I was dreading this run since I was running it alone. I don't mind running alone, but I love the motivation when running with someone else. I even considering skipping this run, I am so glad I didn't. It was a beautiful blue sky day, temps in the upper 70s. This was a road hill workout. I started at Sun Tree Park, ran to Woodland park where I met up with a 1 mile trail that dumps back to Riverplace near the country club.
Wednesday: Rogue speed workout 3 miles
We met at St. Edwards today and ran on a flat 1/2 mile section as an out and back. The workout was to do 3 sets of: 3 min easy pace, 2 min medium pace, 1 min fast pace followed by recovery. This ended up being only 3 miles. I felt this workout was a little short. The 1 min fast pace was hard after coming off of the 2 min medium pace and was a very long minute!
Thursday: Rogue hill workout 6 miles
We met at St. Edwards again but this time focused on hills. We did 3 repeats of a 2 mile loop. It started off with a very long and steep uphill. Then moved on to flats, followed by a downhill. I loved this workout! I need to work on getting faster on the uphills....
Friday: rest
Val and I met ryon today for an arm workout. My arms and shoulders are so weak! After, I did 30 min on the stair master at level 10. It was very tiring for me but I am hoping it will help with my training for Jemez.
Tuesday: 5 mile run Riverplace
I was dreading this run since I was running it alone. I don't mind running alone, but I love the motivation when running with someone else. I even considering skipping this run, I am so glad I didn't. It was a beautiful blue sky day, temps in the upper 70s. This was a road hill workout. I started at Sun Tree Park, ran to Woodland park where I met up with a 1 mile trail that dumps back to Riverplace near the country club.
Wednesday: Rogue speed workout 3 miles
We met at St. Edwards today and ran on a flat 1/2 mile section as an out and back. The workout was to do 3 sets of: 3 min easy pace, 2 min medium pace, 1 min fast pace followed by recovery. This ended up being only 3 miles. I felt this workout was a little short. The 1 min fast pace was hard after coming off of the 2 min medium pace and was a very long minute!
Thursday: Rogue hill workout 6 miles
We met at St. Edwards again but this time focused on hills. We did 3 repeats of a 2 mile loop. It started off with a very long and steep uphill. Then moved on to flats, followed by a downhill. I loved this workout! I need to work on getting faster on the uphills....
Friday: rest
Monday, March 16, 2009
March 14 - 15 Weekend
Saturday: 17 miles Rocky Hill Ranch
I had to wake up at 5:30 am for this one! We decided not to take Domingo so I woke up early to walk him first. He loved the weather (cold and dreary) so wanted to stay outside. Jon and I drove separate since I was running more miles then him.
My legs were heavy during some of this run, probably from my massage the day before. The course was mostly flat, with a few short hills. It reminds me of a mix between Walnut Creek and Bastrop State Park. It was very beautiful with pine trees and pine needles on the trail. This run started and ended in the 40s. About halfway through the loop, I got cold though and stayed cold for the rest of the run. I had already ditched my gloves since I didn't think I would need though. I felt pretty good for this run but just didn't feel like running anymore. I opted to only do one loop, which was fine since it was a long loop - almost 17 miles instead of 15. Most others also only did one loop. After Jon split off to head back in, I ran behind/with John K and Bhavesh. I tried to keep up with them and keep them in sight since I didn't have a map with me (there weren't enough for everyone). Without a map I would have been lost!
After running, a bunch of us went over to Joanna's parents house in Bastrop for migas and mimosas. It was great food and company. 2 hrs later, I drove home happy even though it was rainy :)
Sunday: 5 miles town lake
Jon and I met for an easy run around town lake at 9am with John K, Joanna and Bob. It started out drizzly but ended after we started running. This nice easy pace run felt very refreshing. Afterwards we met at Waterloo for breakfast where Dano and John F were waiting. This was a great way to start the day!
I had to wake up at 5:30 am for this one! We decided not to take Domingo so I woke up early to walk him first. He loved the weather (cold and dreary) so wanted to stay outside. Jon and I drove separate since I was running more miles then him.
My legs were heavy during some of this run, probably from my massage the day before. The course was mostly flat, with a few short hills. It reminds me of a mix between Walnut Creek and Bastrop State Park. It was very beautiful with pine trees and pine needles on the trail. This run started and ended in the 40s. About halfway through the loop, I got cold though and stayed cold for the rest of the run. I had already ditched my gloves since I didn't think I would need though. I felt pretty good for this run but just didn't feel like running anymore. I opted to only do one loop, which was fine since it was a long loop - almost 17 miles instead of 15. Most others also only did one loop. After Jon split off to head back in, I ran behind/with John K and Bhavesh. I tried to keep up with them and keep them in sight since I didn't have a map with me (there weren't enough for everyone). Without a map I would have been lost!
After running, a bunch of us went over to Joanna's parents house in Bastrop for migas and mimosas. It was great food and company. 2 hrs later, I drove home happy even though it was rainy :)
Sunday: 5 miles town lake
Jon and I met for an easy run around town lake at 9am with John K, Joanna and Bob. It started out drizzly but ended after we started running. This nice easy pace run felt very refreshing. Afterwards we met at Waterloo for breakfast where Dano and John F were waiting. This was a great way to start the day!
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
March 8-13 Workouts
Sunday: Hot yoga
I went to hot yoga at Quarry lake this afternoon. I have had to miss this class the last couple of weeks for various reasons. I think yoga will help my tight muscles, especially after the race yesterday. I was so tired all day and felt even more relaxed after yoga, partially from the heat of the room. Plus it was a very warm day today. I had wanted to go for a short run, but was too tired :)
Monday: 30 min easy run
This was my scheduled workout and it felt good to get my legs moving. I took this run very easy, running around Quarry Lake after work.
Tuesday: 5 mile hilly road run, easy paced
I still felt tired today, I have been tired ever since the Waco race on Saturday! Jon said he would run with me, I was glad for the motivation. We took the run easy, I power-walked up the Riverplace country club hill to practice power walking. Jon stopped after 3.5 miles, I picked up some speed for the last 1.5 miles mostly because I wanted to be done and because I was running a route I was very familiar with.
Wednesday:
Thursday: Rogue workout - Dog park 4 miles
It was chilly at the start of the run but looking like the rain might hold off. We ran with Joe's group today. He had us do a 4 mile loop where you could turn around partway for 7 miles total. It was muddy in some spots and slippery. I felt good this run. Jon and I decided to end at 4 miles. I am glad we did since it started raining and I didn't have my flashlight.
Friday: Gym weights and cardio
I met Val this morning. We did 30 min of cardio (elliptical and bike) followed by 30 min of legs and abs.
I went to hot yoga at Quarry lake this afternoon. I have had to miss this class the last couple of weeks for various reasons. I think yoga will help my tight muscles, especially after the race yesterday. I was so tired all day and felt even more relaxed after yoga, partially from the heat of the room. Plus it was a very warm day today. I had wanted to go for a short run, but was too tired :)
Monday: 30 min easy run
This was my scheduled workout and it felt good to get my legs moving. I took this run very easy, running around Quarry Lake after work.
Tuesday: 5 mile hilly road run, easy paced
I still felt tired today, I have been tired ever since the Waco race on Saturday! Jon said he would run with me, I was glad for the motivation. We took the run easy, I power-walked up the Riverplace country club hill to practice power walking. Jon stopped after 3.5 miles, I picked up some speed for the last 1.5 miles mostly because I wanted to be done and because I was running a route I was very familiar with.
Wednesday:
Thursday: Rogue workout - Dog park 4 miles
It was chilly at the start of the run but looking like the rain might hold off. We ran with Joe's group today. He had us do a 4 mile loop where you could turn around partway for 7 miles total. It was muddy in some spots and slippery. I felt good this run. Jon and I decided to end at 4 miles. I am glad we did since it started raining and I didn't have my flashlight.
Friday: Gym weights and cardio
I met Val this morning. We did 30 min of cardio (elliptical and bike) followed by 30 min of legs and abs.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
March 2 - 6 Workouts
Monday: Weights arm/core
Val and I met with Ryon today for our first arm workout. I think Ryon was surprised how weak both of our upper bodies are! For a couple of the exercises he started us out on too heavy of weights. Ryon was surprised how I could do push-ups the regular way, not on my knees. My triceps and shoulders were pretty weak. I want to start concentrating more on upper body (and continue core) since my legs get a pretty good workout from all the hill running I have been doing.
Tuesday: 30 min stair climber & 30 min legs
I met Val this morning at the gym. I did about 30 minutes on the stair climber, I started at level 8 and moved down to level 5 as my heart race increased. My heart rate stayed around 140-144 for this workout. After we did some leg exercises. I meant to do abs/core later at home but forgot.... I also had planned to go for an easy run tonight but I had a bad headache after work.
Wednesday: HCTR 90 min trail run - 6ish miles
I ran tonight from the HOL with the Hill Country Trail Runner club. I was unable to make previous wednesday runs for different reasons and didn't want to miss the last one dark run before daylight savings. This was an easy paced no-drop run of about 90 minutes. Marcia sprained her ankle early in the run so had to cut out early, Larry took over leading the run. I talked to him some about Jemez - he has done that race the 2 previous years and said how beautiful it was. Of course he did the 50 miler which I don't plan to do :)
Thursday: Rogue HOL hill workout - 5 miles
We did an easier workout tonight because of the upcoming race in Waco on Saturday. This was our last dark workout because of daylight savings. We did an out and back workout, not pushing any particular section but trying to keep a consistent pace the whole time (including hills). I tried doing that, it was hard though. It was in the 80s today and a little humid. After I warmed up I felt good for this run and not too tired at the end of the run. Maybe I should have pushed it harder. My right ankle moves around on these sections of the trail, I want to switch into my Vasque Velocity's next time I do this trail.
Friday: Rest
Val and I met with Ryon today for our first arm workout. I think Ryon was surprised how weak both of our upper bodies are! For a couple of the exercises he started us out on too heavy of weights. Ryon was surprised how I could do push-ups the regular way, not on my knees. My triceps and shoulders were pretty weak. I want to start concentrating more on upper body (and continue core) since my legs get a pretty good workout from all the hill running I have been doing.
Tuesday: 30 min stair climber & 30 min legs
I met Val this morning at the gym. I did about 30 minutes on the stair climber, I started at level 8 and moved down to level 5 as my heart race increased. My heart rate stayed around 140-144 for this workout. After we did some leg exercises. I meant to do abs/core later at home but forgot.... I also had planned to go for an easy run tonight but I had a bad headache after work.
Wednesday: HCTR 90 min trail run - 6ish miles
I ran tonight from the HOL with the Hill Country Trail Runner club. I was unable to make previous wednesday runs for different reasons and didn't want to miss the last one dark run before daylight savings. This was an easy paced no-drop run of about 90 minutes. Marcia sprained her ankle early in the run so had to cut out early, Larry took over leading the run. I talked to him some about Jemez - he has done that race the 2 previous years and said how beautiful it was. Of course he did the 50 miler which I don't plan to do :)
Thursday: Rogue HOL hill workout - 5 miles
We did an easier workout tonight because of the upcoming race in Waco on Saturday. This was our last dark workout because of daylight savings. We did an out and back workout, not pushing any particular section but trying to keep a consistent pace the whole time (including hills). I tried doing that, it was hard though. It was in the 80s today and a little humid. After I warmed up I felt good for this run and not too tired at the end of the run. Maybe I should have pushed it harder. My right ankle moves around on these sections of the trail, I want to switch into my Vasque Velocity's next time I do this trail.
Friday: Rest
Monday, March 2, 2009
March 1st
Sunday: 5ish mile run at Town Lake, easy pace
I spent most of the day at the Zilker kite festival. Yesterday would have been a better day for this since it was a lot windier. The morning started out chilly, but warmed up nicely into the 50s and 60s. I went for a really easy paced run at 5:30pm at Town Lake, it was a great run and I didn't feel tired at all :)
I spent most of the day at the Zilker kite festival. Yesterday would have been a better day for this since it was a lot windier. The morning started out chilly, but warmed up nicely into the 50s and 60s. I went for a really easy paced run at 5:30pm at Town Lake, it was a great run and I didn't feel tired at all :)
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Feb 23-27 Workouts
Monday: nothing, tired today
Tuesday: 3 mile easy run
Jon and I did an easy run around the lake this morning. It was fun, I had not run around the lake in a long time. I walk it all the time though with domingo. It looks like the new building might be a restaurant overlooking the lake. I hope it gets finished soon, it has a really nice looking patio area.
Wednesday: Weights with Val & Rogue 7 mile trail speed workout
I met Val this morning for weights (back and legs), we did workout card #1. We almost finished everything within an hour. This workout card is the longest since there are a few single leg exercises.
I was dreading the run tonight in the afternoon and the drive over to it. Not sure why I do that, I think it was the heat and the idea of getting outside of my comfort zone. Once I got to the meeting place and out of the car, I was looking forward to the run. It was humid and hotter then it has been for the run, but nothing compared to the summer. The workout was a speed workout of 3, 2, 1. We had a one mile warm-up to a 1.5 loop which we did 3x. We were to run 3 minutes at half-marathon pace, 2 minutes at 10k pace and 1 minute at 5k pace followed by a recover and repeat. It started getting dark during the 2nd loop making it hard to maintain the 5k pace. Lots of people got lost during this run, we had a small detour but got back on track quick. I was very tired for the rest of the night, I fell asleep reading agatha on the couch.
Thursday: Rogue 6 mile hill workout (dog park)
It was in the 80s today, but it didn't feel as bad at the dog park because of a small breeze and the shade from the trees. Most of our group came to the workout tonight. Joyce also came, she is going to start coming to our workouts! The workout tonight was to do 6x of a loop just shy of 1 mile. Each time we were to reverse directions of the loop. We were to push the hills, downhills and go easy on the flats, the flats were the rest periods. The hills were very hard, I ran what I could but came nowhere close to running most of it. This was the same with everyone else also. I felt pretty good for most of this run (tired of course), but I allowed myself to rest during the flats. The last 2 loops were really dark! It feels like playing in the woods at night :) Surprisingly quite a number of people opted not to do the full 6 loops. Only one more week of night running, I am not sure how I feel about this since I love night running so much.
Tuesday: 3 mile easy run
Jon and I did an easy run around the lake this morning. It was fun, I had not run around the lake in a long time. I walk it all the time though with domingo. It looks like the new building might be a restaurant overlooking the lake. I hope it gets finished soon, it has a really nice looking patio area.
Wednesday: Weights with Val & Rogue 7 mile trail speed workout
I met Val this morning for weights (back and legs), we did workout card #1. We almost finished everything within an hour. This workout card is the longest since there are a few single leg exercises.
I was dreading the run tonight in the afternoon and the drive over to it. Not sure why I do that, I think it was the heat and the idea of getting outside of my comfort zone. Once I got to the meeting place and out of the car, I was looking forward to the run. It was humid and hotter then it has been for the run, but nothing compared to the summer. The workout was a speed workout of 3, 2, 1. We had a one mile warm-up to a 1.5 loop which we did 3x. We were to run 3 minutes at half-marathon pace, 2 minutes at 10k pace and 1 minute at 5k pace followed by a recover and repeat. It started getting dark during the 2nd loop making it hard to maintain the 5k pace. Lots of people got lost during this run, we had a small detour but got back on track quick. I was very tired for the rest of the night, I fell asleep reading agatha on the couch.
Thursday: Rogue 6 mile hill workout (dog park)
It was in the 80s today, but it didn't feel as bad at the dog park because of a small breeze and the shade from the trees. Most of our group came to the workout tonight. Joyce also came, she is going to start coming to our workouts! The workout tonight was to do 6x of a loop just shy of 1 mile. Each time we were to reverse directions of the loop. We were to push the hills, downhills and go easy on the flats, the flats were the rest periods. The hills were very hard, I ran what I could but came nowhere close to running most of it. This was the same with everyone else also. I felt pretty good for most of this run (tired of course), but I allowed myself to rest during the flats. The last 2 loops were really dark! It feels like playing in the woods at night :) Surprisingly quite a number of people opted not to do the full 6 loops. Only one more week of night running, I am not sure how I feel about this since I love night running so much.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Feb 21-22 Weekend Runs
Saturday: Rogue Hill-of-life modified powerline loop, 12 miles, 2 hr 25 minutes
I woke up at 5:50 this morning to make it to the 7am workout. The workouts were moved from 7:30am to 7am..... I have to get up so early so that I can walk Domingo first.
I was tired for the first loop of this run, it was also a little humid out. Each loop was about 6 miles. I ran mostly by myself but leap frogged with Joyce for this run. The workout was to push the hills, push even more the downhills and relax on the flats. This is to prepare us for the mountain race. I walked most of the hills except the hill of life, I really hate that hill and blame it for hurting my knee :) Near the end of the 2nd loop we caught up with Jon and he ran some of the 2nd loop with me (he was adding on a little more mileage for 8-9 miles total). I felt much more energy the second loop and had a good loop. On the way up the hill of life the 2nd time it started pouring out, good timing as I was just about finished with my run.
Sunday: 3 mile hike Turkey Creek
It was such a beautiful day today. I started the day by walking Domingo to Brentwood park, we played there for about 30 minute with some other doggies. Later in the morning Jon and I worked on a raised garden bed for some veggies. After lunch we went on a hike with Domingo to Turkey Creek. After we went to Flying Saucer with Domingo and grabbed an early dinner. I had also planned to go for a run at Town Lake today but was too tired with everything else going on!
I woke up at 5:50 this morning to make it to the 7am workout. The workouts were moved from 7:30am to 7am..... I have to get up so early so that I can walk Domingo first.
I was tired for the first loop of this run, it was also a little humid out. Each loop was about 6 miles. I ran mostly by myself but leap frogged with Joyce for this run. The workout was to push the hills, push even more the downhills and relax on the flats. This is to prepare us for the mountain race. I walked most of the hills except the hill of life, I really hate that hill and blame it for hurting my knee :) Near the end of the 2nd loop we caught up with Jon and he ran some of the 2nd loop with me (he was adding on a little more mileage for 8-9 miles total). I felt much more energy the second loop and had a good loop. On the way up the hill of life the 2nd time it started pouring out, good timing as I was just about finished with my run.
Sunday: 3 mile hike Turkey Creek
It was such a beautiful day today. I started the day by walking Domingo to Brentwood park, we played there for about 30 minute with some other doggies. Later in the morning Jon and I worked on a raised garden bed for some veggies. After lunch we went on a hike with Domingo to Turkey Creek. After we went to Flying Saucer with Domingo and grabbed an early dinner. I had also planned to go for a run at Town Lake today but was too tired with everything else going on!
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Feb 16-20 workouts
I am almost recovered from Bronchitis, just have a lingering cough! I went to the doctor and got an inhaler and antibiotics. I am taking the antibiotics but I think they are over prescribed. The inhaler makes breathing a lot easier, I should have gone to get one earlier. I was sick for 2 weeks! I rested a lot and haven't done any exercise the whole time. I was on vacation in Michigan for 4 days while sick though. We went snow shoeing one day for an hour. Probably not the best idea since I was sick but it was a nice day and was fun :)
Monday: Weights with Ryon and Val
We did card #2 today. I was more tired then usual. I think because this is the first workout since I have been sick and am still not 100% yet.
Tuesday: Power walk with Val and Domingo & Spin
I met Val this morning to power walk. I had planned to take her to St. Eds or Turkey Creek for some hill walking but it was drizzly and foggy this morning. We walked around the Shoal Creek neighborhood instead.
I went to the 6:15 spin class tonight. It was a lot of intervals with strength resistance. I was so tired, even at the start of the class. This was my first high intensity workout since I have been sick.
Wednesday: 3.5 mile hilly easy paced road run
I ran at lunch today for an easy paced one. This was my first run since being sick, it went pretty well. Today was such a beautiful day, sunny, blue sky and in the 70s. I ran at a 9:37 pace, I was still tired though!
Thursday: Weights & 6 mile St. Eds Hill workout
I met Val this morning at the gym, we did workout card #3. I didn't get through all of the exercises (missed back) since I was running short of time. Val was kinda depressed this morning since she has been gaining weight instead of losing it despite working out :(
I like this workout a lot, it was very tiring. My hamstrings are still a little sore from Monday's workout. Exercises included: Quads, calves, back (cable cross), lower back, hamstrings and abs. I have been having no problems waking up at 6am to workout with Val, she gives me the incentive to wake up. Yesterday I tried to wake up early to go for a run by myself and just couldn't do it! I am glad I have Val to get me working out early in the morning, it really saves my evenings for other things.
We met at St. Edwards for our Rogue hill workout. Robert had us doing a 2 mile loop 3x. We went straight up the hill, did a flat section to cross, continued to the top, and then back down doing a couple of flats on the way down. I was able to run all of the hills but not as fast as I wanted (couldn't keep up with Jon on the uphills). I loved the flats through the woods though, nice and twisty and able to do fast until the last loop when it got dark. We were to take the downhills easy. Robert is waiting until daylight savings before doing fast downhill work. I fell while going downhill on the 2nd loop..... I fell on my side so my right side is so bruised and I also hurt my thumb from falling on it. Luckily my legs are fine though so this won't affect running. I ran with Jon and Guy for most of this run.
Friday: rest :)
Monday: Weights with Ryon and Val
We did card #2 today. I was more tired then usual. I think because this is the first workout since I have been sick and am still not 100% yet.
Tuesday: Power walk with Val and Domingo & Spin
I met Val this morning to power walk. I had planned to take her to St. Eds or Turkey Creek for some hill walking but it was drizzly and foggy this morning. We walked around the Shoal Creek neighborhood instead.
I went to the 6:15 spin class tonight. It was a lot of intervals with strength resistance. I was so tired, even at the start of the class. This was my first high intensity workout since I have been sick.
Wednesday: 3.5 mile hilly easy paced road run
I ran at lunch today for an easy paced one. This was my first run since being sick, it went pretty well. Today was such a beautiful day, sunny, blue sky and in the 70s. I ran at a 9:37 pace, I was still tired though!
Thursday: Weights & 6 mile St. Eds Hill workout
I met Val this morning at the gym, we did workout card #3. I didn't get through all of the exercises (missed back) since I was running short of time. Val was kinda depressed this morning since she has been gaining weight instead of losing it despite working out :(
I like this workout a lot, it was very tiring. My hamstrings are still a little sore from Monday's workout. Exercises included: Quads, calves, back (cable cross), lower back, hamstrings and abs. I have been having no problems waking up at 6am to workout with Val, she gives me the incentive to wake up. Yesterday I tried to wake up early to go for a run by myself and just couldn't do it! I am glad I have Val to get me working out early in the morning, it really saves my evenings for other things.
We met at St. Edwards for our Rogue hill workout. Robert had us doing a 2 mile loop 3x. We went straight up the hill, did a flat section to cross, continued to the top, and then back down doing a couple of flats on the way down. I was able to run all of the hills but not as fast as I wanted (couldn't keep up with Jon on the uphills). I loved the flats through the woods though, nice and twisty and able to do fast until the last loop when it got dark. We were to take the downhills easy. Robert is waiting until daylight savings before doing fast downhill work. I fell while going downhill on the 2nd loop..... I fell on my side so my right side is so bruised and I also hurt my thumb from falling on it. Luckily my legs are fine though so this won't affect running. I ran with Jon and Guy for most of this run.
Friday: rest :)
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Feb 2 - 4 Workouts
Monday: Hilly road workout 3.5 miles
I had a sore throat and my stomach was upset most of today, but felt ok while I was running. I decided to keep the loop short in case it started bothering me again. I started my run for the park on River Place. I ran the loop around the River Place country club. I concentrated on running all of the hills. This run started out flat, followed by a big downhill section and ending with a 1 mile mostly uphill steep section. I felt great during this run, obviously breathing hard on the uphill though. Next time I do this I plan to start the run from work, this will add some more hills and about 2 more miles to the workout.
Tuesday: Strength Training with Val, workout card #1
Val and I met at the gym this morning for an hour. We did a 10 minute warmup and then started on workout card #1. This was a leg and back workout. There are so many exercises on this card that we didn't get to all of them. I woke up with a cough and very dry throat, after exercising I felt better though.
Wednesday: sick :(
I had a sore throat and my stomach was upset most of today, but felt ok while I was running. I decided to keep the loop short in case it started bothering me again. I started my run for the park on River Place. I ran the loop around the River Place country club. I concentrated on running all of the hills. This run started out flat, followed by a big downhill section and ending with a 1 mile mostly uphill steep section. I felt great during this run, obviously breathing hard on the uphill though. Next time I do this I plan to start the run from work, this will add some more hills and about 2 more miles to the workout.
Tuesday: Strength Training with Val, workout card #1
Val and I met at the gym this morning for an hour. We did a 10 minute warmup and then started on workout card #1. This was a leg and back workout. There are so many exercises on this card that we didn't get to all of them. I woke up with a cough and very dry throat, after exercising I felt better though.
Wednesday: sick :(
Monday, February 2, 2009
Enchanted Rock/Balcones Preserve
Sat Jan 31: 7 mile run and 3 mile hike
Today started very early with the alarm going off at 5:30am. We took off with Domingo from Jon's place at 6am. I was very sleepy for the drive to Enchanted Rock. We got there around 8am, took Domingo for a quick potty break and started running about 8:20 after getting instructions from Robert. He said to run at a comfortable pace, and run or "walk with a purpose" all of the uphills. I was scheduled to run 10 miles today. My legs were feeling very heavy for about two thirds of the run from my massage yesterday. Today would have been a good day to try my arm warmers! Instead I wore a short sleeve shirt with my pink long sleeve on top. I quickly took that off as I warmed up. We had to do a very steep climb up Enchanted Rock. I started going up it with Jeanette but then was too scared to finish. I did this last year and was very scared. She volunteered to go down with me and run around the rock instead of up it. I am so glad!
Instead of running the remaining 3 miles, I decided to hike the 3 mile loop with Jon and Domingo. Elizabeth joined us on the hike, which took about as long as the run did. Most of the group met after in Fredericksburg for lunch, it was fun.
Sun Feb 1: Yoga and 3 1/2 hr hike
I was scheduled for a 5 mile run today but couldn't find the time. I went to the 10am yoga class at Quarry Lake. After that I didn't have much time before my permit hike for Forest Ridge. The hike lasted from 2-5:30. I am looking forward to running on those trails! When I got home from the hike I was tired and the superbowl was on.
Today started very early with the alarm going off at 5:30am. We took off with Domingo from Jon's place at 6am. I was very sleepy for the drive to Enchanted Rock. We got there around 8am, took Domingo for a quick potty break and started running about 8:20 after getting instructions from Robert. He said to run at a comfortable pace, and run or "walk with a purpose" all of the uphills. I was scheduled to run 10 miles today. My legs were feeling very heavy for about two thirds of the run from my massage yesterday. Today would have been a good day to try my arm warmers! Instead I wore a short sleeve shirt with my pink long sleeve on top. I quickly took that off as I warmed up. We had to do a very steep climb up Enchanted Rock. I started going up it with Jeanette but then was too scared to finish. I did this last year and was very scared. She volunteered to go down with me and run around the rock instead of up it. I am so glad!
Instead of running the remaining 3 miles, I decided to hike the 3 mile loop with Jon and Domingo. Elizabeth joined us on the hike, which took about as long as the run did. Most of the group met after in Fredericksburg for lunch, it was fun.
Sun Feb 1: Yoga and 3 1/2 hr hike
I was scheduled for a 5 mile run today but couldn't find the time. I went to the 10am yoga class at Quarry Lake. After that I didn't have much time before my permit hike for Forest Ridge. The hike lasted from 2-5:30. I am looking forward to running on those trails! When I got home from the hike I was tired and the superbowl was on.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Jan 26 - Jan 30 Workouts
Monday: Strength training with Ryon and Val
Today was a repeat of workout #1. My calves were sore coming into this workout, and it just so happened we didn't work calves today. Not sure if they are sore from my Saturday workout or from the half marathon the day before. The one legged leg presses are really hard for me. I don't even have any additional weight on it either, just the weight of the bar. Hopefully this will get easier. I remembered most of the exercises from last time. I am still having trouble with one of the exercises that requires balance and coordination, I have none of that. For this exercise we use the cable cross machine and stand on a platform working the gluts. I liked the back exercises that we did today.
Tuesday: Rest day
I don't remember the last time I had a rest day! It is cold and icky out today so I figured today would be a good day for one. Plus I have trail runs I want to do on Wednesday and Thursday.
Wednesday: Run 30 minutes
I ran for about 30 minutes tonight. I don't know exactly since I ran without a watch, that is nice to do sometimes. This was scheduled to be an easy run so a watch may have made me run faster. I ran 4 times around Quarry Lake. I was dreading this run since it was dark, I was running by myself, it was cold and I was hungry. Once I started running though I felt great. I had my ipod with me, hopefully I will remember that more often.
Thursday: Weights legs/back/core + Rogue hill workout
I woke up at 6 this morning since I was meeting Val for a strength training workout, card #3. I walked Domingo first for a warm-up. Val ended up missing the workout :( I am glad I did it though, I did all of the exercises except one (which I needed her help with). I wouldn't have had the incentive to wake up for such an early workout if I wasn't meeting Val there! I am getting better at waking up early though....
Rogue quality workout at the HOL. Our group had their first week meeting today. We ran 4 loops which went down fox hollow and up the HOL. Robert calls this his triangle workout. It starts with a downhill, short flat section, and uphill for the hill of life. For the first 3 loops we were to run one section easy and two hard. For the last loop we were to run all sections hard. I wasn't able to run all of the uphills but did a fast powerwalk when I couldn't run. It was pretty dark for the last loop, but I like it that way :) Luckily I remembered the route pretty well for that last loop so didn't have to rely on finding the flags. Each loop took about 15 minutes. After the run I was freezing while we were standing around. I was cold for the rest of the night. Jon locked his key in his car so we had to wait for AAA to come. Luckily we drove separately so were able to stay warm in my car.
Friday: Hike with Domingo
I took today off of work so I slept in this morning. I was tired from the workout last night. I had some errands today and had a massage. Tana did a deep massage of my calves since they were tight. After the massage I did a hike at Turkey Creek with Domingo, we saw a few other dogs there. It was perfect weather for a hike.
Today was a repeat of workout #1. My calves were sore coming into this workout, and it just so happened we didn't work calves today. Not sure if they are sore from my Saturday workout or from the half marathon the day before. The one legged leg presses are really hard for me. I don't even have any additional weight on it either, just the weight of the bar. Hopefully this will get easier. I remembered most of the exercises from last time. I am still having trouble with one of the exercises that requires balance and coordination, I have none of that. For this exercise we use the cable cross machine and stand on a platform working the gluts. I liked the back exercises that we did today.
Tuesday: Rest day
I don't remember the last time I had a rest day! It is cold and icky out today so I figured today would be a good day for one. Plus I have trail runs I want to do on Wednesday and Thursday.
Wednesday: Run 30 minutes
I ran for about 30 minutes tonight. I don't know exactly since I ran without a watch, that is nice to do sometimes. This was scheduled to be an easy run so a watch may have made me run faster. I ran 4 times around Quarry Lake. I was dreading this run since it was dark, I was running by myself, it was cold and I was hungry. Once I started running though I felt great. I had my ipod with me, hopefully I will remember that more often.
Thursday: Weights legs/back/core + Rogue hill workout
I woke up at 6 this morning since I was meeting Val for a strength training workout, card #3. I walked Domingo first for a warm-up. Val ended up missing the workout :( I am glad I did it though, I did all of the exercises except one (which I needed her help with). I wouldn't have had the incentive to wake up for such an early workout if I wasn't meeting Val there! I am getting better at waking up early though....
Rogue quality workout at the HOL. Our group had their first week meeting today. We ran 4 loops which went down fox hollow and up the HOL. Robert calls this his triangle workout. It starts with a downhill, short flat section, and uphill for the hill of life. For the first 3 loops we were to run one section easy and two hard. For the last loop we were to run all sections hard. I wasn't able to run all of the uphills but did a fast powerwalk when I couldn't run. It was pretty dark for the last loop, but I like it that way :) Luckily I remembered the route pretty well for that last loop so didn't have to rely on finding the flags. Each loop took about 15 minutes. After the run I was freezing while we were standing around. I was cold for the rest of the night. Jon locked his key in his car so we had to wait for AAA to come. Luckily we drove separately so were able to stay warm in my car.
Friday: Hike with Domingo
I took today off of work so I slept in this morning. I was tired from the workout last night. I had some errands today and had a massage. Tana did a deep massage of my calves since they were tight. After the massage I did a hike at Turkey Creek with Domingo, we saw a few other dogs there. It was perfect weather for a hike.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Jan 25 3M Half Marathon
Time: 2 hr 5 min
Weather: Cold :)
Originally when I had considered doing this race I thought it would be fun half to race. But because of my knee injury I hadn't had many miles in and minimal road miles and no speed work. So my race plan was to run conservatively and keep to a 9:30-9:45 pace. My estimated finish time was between 2hr 3 min t- 2 hr 7 min. If I was feeling good after mile 10 I had planned to pick up the pace.
My race day run went beautifully to plan. I kept a 9:30 pace for most of the run. I felt pretty comfortable most of the run, the last mile was really tiring for me though. I took a much needed restroom break around mile 4 :) I carried my own water bottle, I was very glad for that decision. I also brought one apple pie Hammergel gu. I ran out of energy during the race and needed more food, I think that is why I wasn't able to pick up the pace any after mile 10. Next time I need to bring more food with me. These road runs aren't stocked with food the way trail runs are. It was fun seeing so many people cheering from the sidelines! I saw Murali, Cheri/Jeff/Molson (twice!), and my physical therapist ryan. Jon met me at the finish line. It wasn't too hilly, and the hills that were there didn't bother me/tire me too much. The hardest section of the course was on Burnet, that section lasted so long. I loved running on Duval and seeing all of the cute houses.
This run was fun!
Weather: Cold :)
Originally when I had considered doing this race I thought it would be fun half to race. But because of my knee injury I hadn't had many miles in and minimal road miles and no speed work. So my race plan was to run conservatively and keep to a 9:30-9:45 pace. My estimated finish time was between 2hr 3 min t- 2 hr 7 min. If I was feeling good after mile 10 I had planned to pick up the pace.
My race day run went beautifully to plan. I kept a 9:30 pace for most of the run. I felt pretty comfortable most of the run, the last mile was really tiring for me though. I took a much needed restroom break around mile 4 :) I carried my own water bottle, I was very glad for that decision. I also brought one apple pie Hammergel gu. I ran out of energy during the race and needed more food, I think that is why I wasn't able to pick up the pace any after mile 10. Next time I need to bring more food with me. These road runs aren't stocked with food the way trail runs are. It was fun seeing so many people cheering from the sidelines! I saw Murali, Cheri/Jeff/Molson (twice!), and my physical therapist ryan. Jon met me at the finish line. It wasn't too hilly, and the hills that were there didn't bother me/tire me too much. The hardest section of the course was on Burnet, that section lasted so long. I loved running on Duval and seeing all of the cute houses.
This run was fun!
Jan 24th Barton Creek 6.5 mile trail run + weights
Today was the first day of Jemez training, we met at 7:30am at the Spyglass entrance of Barton Creek. I am happy about the 7:30am starting time so that I have time to take Domingo for a walk first. Jon and I did an easy out and back for 6.5 miles. It was chilly out, but once I started running I was ok. I was freezing when I finished running though! We saw some people from Joe's Rocky Hill Ranch class after at TacoDeli.
Later in the afternoon I met Val at PureAustin to do our workout card #2 (legs, back, abs). Since I had a race the next morning I had planned to make it an easier workout and only do 2 sets of the exercises, but once I started I decided since I was there I should just do the whole thing! The exercises took us a long time, we understood most of them except for one of the back exercises we weren't sure if we were doing right. We will have to ask Ryon when we see him.
Later in the afternoon I met Val at PureAustin to do our workout card #2 (legs, back, abs). Since I had a race the next morning I had planned to make it an easier workout and only do 2 sets of the exercises, but once I started I decided since I was there I should just do the whole thing! The exercises took us a long time, we understood most of them except for one of the back exercises we weren't sure if we were doing right. We will have to ask Ryon when we see him.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Jan 21-23 Workouts
Wed: Strength training
Val and I met with Ryon for our 3rd personal training session. We again concentrated mostly on legs and back since they are the largest muscle groups.
Thursday: 30 min elliptical and hot yoga
I met Val this morning at the gym. We did the elliptical trying to keep our heart rates at about 130. Then we did some bicep and tricep exercises for about 15 minutes. After work I went hot yoga at the gym. I love this class and think it is important for my flexibility. My Jemez running class starts next week and meets on thursday nights so I will have to go to the sunday yoga class instead. There is also a friday yoga class after spin that I want to try....
Friday: Walk with Val/Logan/Domingo at Allen Park
Val and I walked for about 45 min this morning. It was fun!
Val and I met with Ryon for our 3rd personal training session. We again concentrated mostly on legs and back since they are the largest muscle groups.
Thursday: 30 min elliptical and hot yoga
I met Val this morning at the gym. We did the elliptical trying to keep our heart rates at about 130. Then we did some bicep and tricep exercises for about 15 minutes. After work I went hot yoga at the gym. I love this class and think it is important for my flexibility. My Jemez running class starts next week and meets on thursday nights so I will have to go to the sunday yoga class instead. There is also a friday yoga class after spin that I want to try....
Friday: Walk with Val/Logan/Domingo at Allen Park
Val and I walked for about 45 min this morning. It was fun!
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Jan 14-20 Vacation week
Wed: Strength training
Strength training session with Ryon and Val. We concentrated on legs/back/core. I was sore from this workout the next 2 days. I was better in time for skiing though. When I get back from vacation I plan to start doing this workout with Val at least once a week.
Thursday/Friday: driving to Colorado
Saturday: Skiing and hiking in Crested Butte
Went skiing for most of the day. When we got back we went hiking with Domingo at Peanut Lake road/lower upper loop.
Sunday: Skiing and snow shoeing 1 hr in Crested Butte
Went skiing in the morning. Jon and I went snow shoeing with Domingo at Long Lake in the afternoon for an hour. We missed the trail on the way there, so hiked straight up a hill like last year. We did find it on the way back so made a nice loop out of it. I ran some of this with my snow shoes on the way back.
Monday: Snow shoeing for 1 hr at Crested Butte
In the morning we went snow shoeing with Domingo at Slate River for an hour.
Tuesday: 6 mile trail run at Palo Duro
Jon, Domingo and I ran the Lighthouse trail at Palo Duro this morning. It was gorgeous and the weather was perfect! I was proud of Domingo, he did great! This was his longest run so far, but he has been on long hikes before.
Strength training session with Ryon and Val. We concentrated on legs/back/core. I was sore from this workout the next 2 days. I was better in time for skiing though. When I get back from vacation I plan to start doing this workout with Val at least once a week.
Thursday/Friday: driving to Colorado
Saturday: Skiing and hiking in Crested Butte
Went skiing for most of the day. When we got back we went hiking with Domingo at Peanut Lake road/lower upper loop.
Sunday: Skiing and snow shoeing 1 hr in Crested Butte
Went skiing in the morning. Jon and I went snow shoeing with Domingo at Long Lake in the afternoon for an hour. We missed the trail on the way there, so hiked straight up a hill like last year. We did find it on the way back so made a nice loop out of it. I ran some of this with my snow shoes on the way back.
Monday: Snow shoeing for 1 hr at Crested Butte
In the morning we went snow shoeing with Domingo at Slate River for an hour.
Tuesday: 6 mile trail run at Palo Duro
Jon, Domingo and I ran the Lighthouse trail at Palo Duro this morning. It was gorgeous and the weather was perfect! I was proud of Domingo, he did great! This was his longest run so far, but he has been on long hikes before.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Jan 10 2009 Bandera 25k Race Report
Time: 3:16:38
Jon and I started our trip to Bandera on Friday after lunch. Domingo was staying at Dog Boys since he couldn't stay in the hotel room and also since he wasn't allowed on the race course. I missed him, but I think he had more fun at Dog Boys! We checked into the Rancho Cortez Dude Ranch around 3 and ran into JoAnna and Alicia. After checking in and walking around the property we headed to the Hill Country SNA to check out the kid 1 mile race that was starting at 4. Both Kelly and Stephanie's sons were entered in the race! The kids were all so cute running, and were all so thirsty when they were done :) They got these really cool lizard trophies for running ....
We hung out for a bit, listened to Joe's prerace speech and ate the pasta dinner that was catered by Brick's. It was yummy!! I was still hungry after I ate though and I forgot to buy Jon a meal ticket. I was feeling really bad about it but Gordon came to the rescue, he had a couple of extra meal tickets that he wasn't using. So Jon got to eat and I got to go back for seconds!
It was getting chilly, and I wanted to get my race clothes ready for the morning so we went back to the hotel shortly after dinner. Set the alarm for 6am for the next morning!
I was well rested on race morning. The winds were really loud though so I was scared to go outside. I think it was in the 40s in the morning. I ate a cereal bar and part of a banana and then we headed to the park. It was hard deciding what to wear since it would feel warmer once the sun came out. I decided on shorts, a short sleeve shirt, long sleeve shirt and my wind breaker. This ended up being a bit much and I kept my wind breaker on way longer then it needed to be. I think I would have been fine with my short sleeve shirt, arm sleeves and the wind breaker. I also carried my nathan pack the whole time with water and a hand held bottle of spiz. I am glad I brought my gloves! They easily fit into my nathan pack when I no longer needed them.
Jon and I went under the tent before the race to warm up. We saw Brenda, John Brown, Ed, Melissa and Kurt so went over to say hi. Melissa was sick so wasn't running. We lost track of time, and saw that it was just about 7:30. Oops! I thought that the start line for the 25k was right outside of the tent, but we had to hike down the road a little bit. By the time we got there the runners had already started. No big deal though since I was planning to take it easy for this race. My longest run was the Sunday before of 9 miles and I hadn't been running much because of my knee injury. Brenda and John were running together so I figured I would hang out with them. I stayed with them until the first aid station, maybe half an hour or so. They had stopped to get water and I kept on going. I took it easy for about the first hour and a half but then decided to pick it up a little. I passed JoAnna at about this point, but hadn't run into anyone else that I know. I wouldn't for the rest of the race. I did keep saying the same group of people for the rest of the race. I would pass some on downhills or at the aid stations and get passed later by the same people on the uphills.
I loved the downhills and even the uphills in the race but dreaded the flats. The flats were in very windy sections of the course. The downhills gave me energy to go faster and the uphills were a welcome walking break :) I was happily surprised to see Jon and Melissa at 2 of the aid stations! I didn't stop to say hi but I did wave and was glad that they were there! It was a nice pick me up. I was thankful that my right knee didn't hurt for most of the race, only when going down ledges. I did tend to favor my left knee for the ledges, which probably isn't a good thing.
After my race, I hung around to see others finish the 25k and to get pictures of them. Jon and I went to lunch at Bricks, I had the tortellini just like the pre race dinner the night before, it was so good. We didn't have time to go back and shower since we needed to be back to volunteer at the race. We hung glow sticks from 3-5:30 on a 5 mile loop from Cross Roads to Last Chance. I had run this part of the course toward the end of my 25k mile race! I still had lots of energy left from the run. We got back just in time to see Savitha finish the 50k.
I am looking forward to doing the 50k next year!
Jon and I started our trip to Bandera on Friday after lunch. Domingo was staying at Dog Boys since he couldn't stay in the hotel room and also since he wasn't allowed on the race course. I missed him, but I think he had more fun at Dog Boys! We checked into the Rancho Cortez Dude Ranch around 3 and ran into JoAnna and Alicia. After checking in and walking around the property we headed to the Hill Country SNA to check out the kid 1 mile race that was starting at 4. Both Kelly and Stephanie's sons were entered in the race! The kids were all so cute running, and were all so thirsty when they were done :) They got these really cool lizard trophies for running ....
We hung out for a bit, listened to Joe's prerace speech and ate the pasta dinner that was catered by Brick's. It was yummy!! I was still hungry after I ate though and I forgot to buy Jon a meal ticket. I was feeling really bad about it but Gordon came to the rescue, he had a couple of extra meal tickets that he wasn't using. So Jon got to eat and I got to go back for seconds!
It was getting chilly, and I wanted to get my race clothes ready for the morning so we went back to the hotel shortly after dinner. Set the alarm for 6am for the next morning!
I was well rested on race morning. The winds were really loud though so I was scared to go outside. I think it was in the 40s in the morning. I ate a cereal bar and part of a banana and then we headed to the park. It was hard deciding what to wear since it would feel warmer once the sun came out. I decided on shorts, a short sleeve shirt, long sleeve shirt and my wind breaker. This ended up being a bit much and I kept my wind breaker on way longer then it needed to be. I think I would have been fine with my short sleeve shirt, arm sleeves and the wind breaker. I also carried my nathan pack the whole time with water and a hand held bottle of spiz. I am glad I brought my gloves! They easily fit into my nathan pack when I no longer needed them.
Jon and I went under the tent before the race to warm up. We saw Brenda, John Brown, Ed, Melissa and Kurt so went over to say hi. Melissa was sick so wasn't running. We lost track of time, and saw that it was just about 7:30. Oops! I thought that the start line for the 25k was right outside of the tent, but we had to hike down the road a little bit. By the time we got there the runners had already started. No big deal though since I was planning to take it easy for this race. My longest run was the Sunday before of 9 miles and I hadn't been running much because of my knee injury. Brenda and John were running together so I figured I would hang out with them. I stayed with them until the first aid station, maybe half an hour or so. They had stopped to get water and I kept on going. I took it easy for about the first hour and a half but then decided to pick it up a little. I passed JoAnna at about this point, but hadn't run into anyone else that I know. I wouldn't for the rest of the race. I did keep saying the same group of people for the rest of the race. I would pass some on downhills or at the aid stations and get passed later by the same people on the uphills.
I loved the downhills and even the uphills in the race but dreaded the flats. The flats were in very windy sections of the course. The downhills gave me energy to go faster and the uphills were a welcome walking break :) I was happily surprised to see Jon and Melissa at 2 of the aid stations! I didn't stop to say hi but I did wave and was glad that they were there! It was a nice pick me up. I was thankful that my right knee didn't hurt for most of the race, only when going down ledges. I did tend to favor my left knee for the ledges, which probably isn't a good thing.
After my race, I hung around to see others finish the 25k and to get pictures of them. Jon and I went to lunch at Bricks, I had the tortellini just like the pre race dinner the night before, it was so good. We didn't have time to go back and shower since we needed to be back to volunteer at the race. We hung glow sticks from 3-5:30 on a 5 mile loop from Cross Roads to Last Chance. I had run this part of the course toward the end of my 25k mile race! I still had lots of energy left from the run. We got back just in time to see Savitha finish the 50k.
I am looking forward to doing the 50k next year!
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Jan 5 - 9th Workouts
Monday: Weights with Val & Ryon
Val and I had our first personal training meeting with Ryon today. We met at 3:45pm, it was nice having a break from work. We concentrated on legs today. Ryon has us do exercises where we also have to use our core. It was a little hectic and we didn't get to all of the exercises we had planned. I am glad Val is doing this with me since I probably won't remember how to do all of these exercises on my own. It was a great workout and I am looking forward to our next one.
Tuesday: rest
Wednesday: 6 mile night run Barton Creek
Jon and I ran with the HCTR running group today let by Marcia. Roger, Daniel and Murali were also there. I was happy that Jon got to see some of the non-main trails of Barton Creek. Well not really see since it was dark :)
This was a nice easy paced run, we walked all of the uphills. It was good to stretch out the legs before Bandera this weekend. I didn't fall this time and my knee didn't hurt at all!!! It was a great night for a night run ....
Thursday: Pilates at Pure Austin
Friday: drive to Bandera
Val and I had our first personal training meeting with Ryon today. We met at 3:45pm, it was nice having a break from work. We concentrated on legs today. Ryon has us do exercises where we also have to use our core. It was a little hectic and we didn't get to all of the exercises we had planned. I am glad Val is doing this with me since I probably won't remember how to do all of these exercises on my own. It was a great workout and I am looking forward to our next one.
Tuesday: rest
Wednesday: 6 mile night run Barton Creek
Jon and I ran with the HCTR running group today let by Marcia. Roger, Daniel and Murali were also there. I was happy that Jon got to see some of the non-main trails of Barton Creek. Well not really see since it was dark :)
This was a nice easy paced run, we walked all of the uphills. It was good to stretch out the legs before Bandera this weekend. I didn't fall this time and my knee didn't hurt at all!!! It was a great night for a night run ....
Thursday: Pilates at Pure Austin
Friday: drive to Bandera
Monday, January 5, 2009
New Years Week
Wednesday: 25 min run Walnut Creek
Jon and I did a run at Walnut Creek around dusk. We did one BMX loop and one Windy loop.
Thursday: 6 miles Rogue Barton Creek Training run
I went for a run with my class today, I don't remember the last time I was in class since to my knee injury. We started at the hill of life, taking the easy way down. We then stayed on the main trail until we crossed under Mopac. This ended up being about 6 miles. My knee didn't hurt at all during this run! I ran for the first 2 miles alone and then ran the rest with Courtney and her Max. I was happy to have them to run with since it was dark! We kept at a pretty easy pace but enough to make us tired.
Friday: Yoga/Pilates
I did a few weight exercises before yoga. I had such a bad headache that I almost decided to skip yoga. I am glad I didn't though since by the end of class my headache went away! Maybe it released some of the tension in my neck and shoulders. This was a gentle yoga/pilates class but I did like it a lot.
Sunday: 9 mile run at Barton Creek/Hot Yoga
I ran for 8 - 9:45am at Barton Creek this morning. It started out cloudy and in the low 50s. When I was done with the run I felt cold. I think by this time it had gotten into the 40s!!! During my run however was perfect running temperatures. There were other runners out there but none I knew, I also saw lots of dogs hiking and wished Domingo was with me. I felt great during this whole run. My knee felt a little stiff though and hurt a little when I was doing down steep ledges.
In the afternoon I tried a new class at my gym, hot yoga. The room was heated to about 90 degrees. I loved it! It wasn't too hot where I got dizzy. I had to do modifications for a couple of the posed because of my right knee.
Jon and I did a run at Walnut Creek around dusk. We did one BMX loop and one Windy loop.
Thursday: 6 miles Rogue Barton Creek Training run
I went for a run with my class today, I don't remember the last time I was in class since to my knee injury. We started at the hill of life, taking the easy way down. We then stayed on the main trail until we crossed under Mopac. This ended up being about 6 miles. My knee didn't hurt at all during this run! I ran for the first 2 miles alone and then ran the rest with Courtney and her Max. I was happy to have them to run with since it was dark! We kept at a pretty easy pace but enough to make us tired.
Friday: Yoga/Pilates
I did a few weight exercises before yoga. I had such a bad headache that I almost decided to skip yoga. I am glad I didn't though since by the end of class my headache went away! Maybe it released some of the tension in my neck and shoulders. This was a gentle yoga/pilates class but I did like it a lot.
Sunday: 9 mile run at Barton Creek/Hot Yoga
I ran for 8 - 9:45am at Barton Creek this morning. It started out cloudy and in the low 50s. When I was done with the run I felt cold. I think by this time it had gotten into the 40s!!! During my run however was perfect running temperatures. There were other runners out there but none I knew, I also saw lots of dogs hiking and wished Domingo was with me. I felt great during this whole run. My knee felt a little stiff though and hurt a little when I was doing down steep ledges.
In the afternoon I tried a new class at my gym, hot yoga. The room was heated to about 90 degrees. I loved it! It wasn't too hot where I got dizzy. I had to do modifications for a couple of the posed because of my right knee.
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