The idea of finishing a marathon in all 50 states sounds like a lot of fun to me. However, my income does not allow for such an extravagant goal. So, I came up with the idea of finishing all the marathons in my own great state of MICHIGAN!! I was quite surprised by the number! We have 12 marathons currently! Now this doesn't mean I won't go out of state at all. I'd still love to travel as time and money allows. After all, if I qualify for Boston, I'm GOING!!
Here's the list of current Michigan marathons. For all I know, some may be cancelled or added as the years go by. If anyone knows of any others that I missed, let me know!
Michigan marathons
Road
Detroit
Grand Rapids
Martian
Bayshore
Boyne 2 Boyne
Run Charlevoix
Beaver Island Marathon
Carollton Marathon
Trail
The Trail Marathon
Grand Island Marathon
The North Country Trail Marathon
Fallsburg Marathon
I should have 2 crossed off the list by the end of the year! Wow! That's progress! May is Bayshore, of course and this Fall will probably be either Grand Rapids or Detroit. Next year I would like to do the Grand Island Marathon. That's as far out as I've planned so far. Exciting!
February 27, 2009
Peanut Butter Makes Everything Better
**For the benefit of those not in the Runner's World Community, Leslie Bonci is a sports dietitian who has an ongoing nutrition blog on the Runner's World website along with several videos about, you guessed it, sports nutrition.
After reading Leslie's blog post about refueling after running, I decided to start taking a package of fig newtons to the gym with me so I can have something with calories right away after working out. When I didn't bring anything with me, it could take an hour or more before I got home and raided the fridge/cupboard. I knew refueling quickly was important, but I just needed that little extra nudge from Leslie's blog to get me to throw those newtons in the bag. Thanks, Leslie!
Also knowing that protein is important in the refueling/recovery process (but not willing to spend the extra money on protein bars), I wanted to get some of that important nutrient in me when I got home today. The freezer is filled, the cupboard as well and the fridge isn't exactly empty, but nothing looked appetizing to me. So what did I do? I grabbed a spoon and dipped it into the peanut butter jar!!! Oh Yeah!!!!!! Mmmm.... Peanut butter makes everything better. Or was that cheese? Oh, no, it's peanut butter. The cheese thing goes like this: There's no such thing as too much cheese. That's right.
Today's weather report included decent temperatures, in the low 30s, but also very strong wind gusts. So I opted for the treadmill today. I did a 3/4 mile walking warm-up and then hiked the speed up to an 8:49 pace and left it there for about 4 miles. Over the next 2 miles I slowly increased my rate until I was at my marathon goal pace of 8:34 at the very end. Though the average pace of 7:59 felt relatively easy yesterday, for some reason a much slower pace on the mill today seemed much harder. I find that to be true quite often. Weird. Anyway, overall I felt pretty good about the run. Tomorrow is a nice, easy 3 miler and then my first longish run since my return on Sunday, 8-10 miles.
Yay, peanut butter!
Meow.
After reading Leslie's blog post about refueling after running, I decided to start taking a package of fig newtons to the gym with me so I can have something with calories right away after working out. When I didn't bring anything with me, it could take an hour or more before I got home and raided the fridge/cupboard. I knew refueling quickly was important, but I just needed that little extra nudge from Leslie's blog to get me to throw those newtons in the bag. Thanks, Leslie!
Also knowing that protein is important in the refueling/recovery process (but not willing to spend the extra money on protein bars), I wanted to get some of that important nutrient in me when I got home today. The freezer is filled, the cupboard as well and the fridge isn't exactly empty, but nothing looked appetizing to me. So what did I do? I grabbed a spoon and dipped it into the peanut butter jar!!! Oh Yeah!!!!!! Mmmm.... Peanut butter makes everything better. Or was that cheese? Oh, no, it's peanut butter. The cheese thing goes like this: There's no such thing as too much cheese. That's right.
Today's weather report included decent temperatures, in the low 30s, but also very strong wind gusts. So I opted for the treadmill today. I did a 3/4 mile walking warm-up and then hiked the speed up to an 8:49 pace and left it there for about 4 miles. Over the next 2 miles I slowly increased my rate until I was at my marathon goal pace of 8:34 at the very end. Though the average pace of 7:59 felt relatively easy yesterday, for some reason a much slower pace on the mill today seemed much harder. I find that to be true quite often. Weird. Anyway, overall I felt pretty good about the run. Tomorrow is a nice, easy 3 miler and then my first longish run since my return on Sunday, 8-10 miles.
Yay, peanut butter!
Meow.
February 26, 2009
Great Weather and a Great Run!
Weather Report: 42F and Sunny -- How could I NOT run today?! And so I did! It was fantastic. No gloves needed. No hat. No vest. My heel felt great. The side stitch was mostly held at bay. I felt so good I even put in an extra kick at the end. My average pace was 7:59 min/mile over 5.5 miles. Probably a little faster than I should have gone, but when I'm not on a treadmill, I have a hard time holding back. That's something I'll need to change come marathon time!
My plans for the rest of the week include another 6 mile easy run tomorrow, a 3 mile easy run Saturday and then an 8-10 mile longish run on Sunday if I still feel good. I consulted with SmartCoach again to get an idea of what kind of long run plan would be doable in the 13 weeks I have left before the race. This is what it came up with: 10, 12, 14, 6, 16, 18, 20, 6, 16, 20, 20, 8, race. With the nice base I had before the injury, I should be okay with this plan, but I still haven't totally recovered my confidence. Sunday should go a long way to restore that confidence if my run goes well. I also don't plan on attempting any speedwork for a few weeks.
The rest of my workout today included core training Lolo style with my usual additions and leg and back strength training. Then I headed to Matt's restaurant to refuel with a calzone stuffed with chicken, spinach, artichoke hearts, basil, oregano and mozzarella. Mmmm....
I have yet to indulge in any tiramisu. Matt. Ahem.
Meow.
My plans for the rest of the week include another 6 mile easy run tomorrow, a 3 mile easy run Saturday and then an 8-10 mile longish run on Sunday if I still feel good. I consulted with SmartCoach again to get an idea of what kind of long run plan would be doable in the 13 weeks I have left before the race. This is what it came up with: 10, 12, 14, 6, 16, 18, 20, 6, 16, 20, 20, 8, race. With the nice base I had before the injury, I should be okay with this plan, but I still haven't totally recovered my confidence. Sunday should go a long way to restore that confidence if my run goes well. I also don't plan on attempting any speedwork for a few weeks.
The rest of my workout today included core training Lolo style with my usual additions and leg and back strength training. Then I headed to Matt's restaurant to refuel with a calzone stuffed with chicken, spinach, artichoke hearts, basil, oregano and mozzarella. Mmmm....
I have yet to indulge in any tiramisu. Matt. Ahem.
Meow.
February 24, 2009
Doc Report
The free clinic by the podiatrist was today. I was there early as promised. The first thing the doc did when he took a look at my foot was make fun of my flat feet. Then he teased me because of my extremely inflexible, well, everything. I don't bend very well. "Relax your feet," he says. "They are relaxed!!!" "No, really, relax them." "That's as relaxed as they're gonna get!" Then he took one look at my achilles and said that if I didn't already have achilles problems, I would have them eventually. Sheeesh! Apparently my achilles are very thin as achilles go. My one saving grace in that regard is my tiny-ness. :-)
He did a lot of palpating of my foot, paying special attention to the heel and achilles area. None of his manipulation caused any pain - good news. He said the problem I described was achilles related but that I wasn't in danger of rupture any time soon - better news. I got the A-OK to continue my training! YAY!!!!!
And to top it all off, he gave me his card, told me he has an ongoing study using some sort of ultrasound machine as a treatment aid, and if I continue to have achilles problems, he would include me in the study and my exams and treatments would be free of charge. WOW!
All in all, it was a great way to end an otherwise so-so day. My day at work was horrendously boring - we had two appointments from 8 - 1 pm. TWO! And one was a suture removal which took all of 3 minutes - snip, snip, his incision is healing perfectly and have a nice day. We didn't even get any money off of it because suture removals are courtesy (as long as we did the surgery). The other appointment was a cranky brat kitty with a mysteriously high white blood cell count. It still only took about 30 minutes and most of that was the doctor talking to the client. Zzzzz...
Then I went to the gym for my second run since my hiatus. It didn't go as well as Sunday and I started to get depressed again. Though there wasn't any outright pain in my heel, I could feel some tightness and these random pin-prick sensations which worried me. I did a 10 minute brisk walk warm-up and stretched before running even! The run itself was very slow and I slowed down to walk periodically as Pat suggested. The whole run felt "off", and not just because of my heel. I felt clumsy and awkward, like I'd lost all my form. When I reached about 4-5 miles, my legs really started aching. Three weeks ago I did 16 miles with no discomfort and now I can barely do 6. After my run, I carefully stretched again, did my core and upper body workout and then went to see the doc. That's when things finally started going my way. :-)
So now I'm sitting at home, waiting for Matty to return. Hopefully he'll bring dessert. He was supposed to bring it yesterday and FORGOT!! Are you reading this, Mr. Antoniou!? I want tiramisu!!
Meow
He did a lot of palpating of my foot, paying special attention to the heel and achilles area. None of his manipulation caused any pain - good news. He said the problem I described was achilles related but that I wasn't in danger of rupture any time soon - better news. I got the A-OK to continue my training! YAY!!!!!
And to top it all off, he gave me his card, told me he has an ongoing study using some sort of ultrasound machine as a treatment aid, and if I continue to have achilles problems, he would include me in the study and my exams and treatments would be free of charge. WOW!
All in all, it was a great way to end an otherwise so-so day. My day at work was horrendously boring - we had two appointments from 8 - 1 pm. TWO! And one was a suture removal which took all of 3 minutes - snip, snip, his incision is healing perfectly and have a nice day. We didn't even get any money off of it because suture removals are courtesy (as long as we did the surgery). The other appointment was a cranky brat kitty with a mysteriously high white blood cell count. It still only took about 30 minutes and most of that was the doctor talking to the client. Zzzzz...
Then I went to the gym for my second run since my hiatus. It didn't go as well as Sunday and I started to get depressed again. Though there wasn't any outright pain in my heel, I could feel some tightness and these random pin-prick sensations which worried me. I did a 10 minute brisk walk warm-up and stretched before running even! The run itself was very slow and I slowed down to walk periodically as Pat suggested. The whole run felt "off", and not just because of my heel. I felt clumsy and awkward, like I'd lost all my form. When I reached about 4-5 miles, my legs really started aching. Three weeks ago I did 16 miles with no discomfort and now I can barely do 6. After my run, I carefully stretched again, did my core and upper body workout and then went to see the doc. That's when things finally started going my way. :-)
So now I'm sitting at home, waiting for Matty to return. Hopefully he'll bring dessert. He was supposed to bring it yesterday and FORGOT!! Are you reading this, Mr. Antoniou!? I want tiramisu!!
Meow
February 22, 2009
You Can't Keep a Good Redhead Down for Long!
Yes, I know I said I wouldn't run until after I saw the doc on Tuesday. Yes, I know I took a silly, unnecessary risk, but I couldn't help it!! My original plan was to take 2-3 weeks off and slowly ease back into running. Today was exactly 3 weeks since Black Sunday. I'd been feeling great for over a week, so I just DID IT!
I did it smartly though. I hopped on the treadmill and walked first, slowly picking up the pace until I was walking very briskly. I did this for one mile - just under 15 minutes. Then I stopped, carefully stretched my calves, achilles and shins for a few minutes before setting the treadmill for a nice, easy 9:15 min/mile pace and running a little less than 3 miles - PAIN FREE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
WOOOOOO!!!
Well, not exactly totally pain free. Pain free in my heel, but I struggled with a side stitch the entire time! Side stitches are my nemesis. As I've put in more miles, I experience them less and less, but they still come back to haunt me sometimes. I sure hope I'm not starting from scratch on the side stitch front. I have learned to keep the pain at bay somewhat by slowly but forcefully exhaling - that almost always does the trick - except today, of course. Grrrrr....
Get this... about a mile into the run, my finger just barely brushed the side of the mill and I got a mild electric shock. No big deal - this happens all the time when I run on the treadmill in the winter. However, this one time, this little shock shut down the damn machine! The screen went blank suddenly and I thought to myself, "oh crap, here it comes," and sure enough, the next second it pitched me forward and I just stopped myself from falling. Grrrrr... My first day back!! Evil machine.
After my exultant run, which made me so emotional that I almost cried right there on the treadmill, I hopped on the bike to get another 20 minutes of cardio in. Then I did some lower body strength training. I refueled after my workout at my husband's restaurant which is literally in the back of the gym's parking lot! Ham and turkey sub with cheese and lots of mayo. Mmmm...
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!
I did it smartly though. I hopped on the treadmill and walked first, slowly picking up the pace until I was walking very briskly. I did this for one mile - just under 15 minutes. Then I stopped, carefully stretched my calves, achilles and shins for a few minutes before setting the treadmill for a nice, easy 9:15 min/mile pace and running a little less than 3 miles - PAIN FREE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
WOOOOOO!!!
Well, not exactly totally pain free. Pain free in my heel, but I struggled with a side stitch the entire time! Side stitches are my nemesis. As I've put in more miles, I experience them less and less, but they still come back to haunt me sometimes. I sure hope I'm not starting from scratch on the side stitch front. I have learned to keep the pain at bay somewhat by slowly but forcefully exhaling - that almost always does the trick - except today, of course. Grrrrr....
Get this... about a mile into the run, my finger just barely brushed the side of the mill and I got a mild electric shock. No big deal - this happens all the time when I run on the treadmill in the winter. However, this one time, this little shock shut down the damn machine! The screen went blank suddenly and I thought to myself, "oh crap, here it comes," and sure enough, the next second it pitched me forward and I just stopped myself from falling. Grrrrr... My first day back!! Evil machine.
After my exultant run, which made me so emotional that I almost cried right there on the treadmill, I hopped on the bike to get another 20 minutes of cardio in. Then I did some lower body strength training. I refueled after my workout at my husband's restaurant which is literally in the back of the gym's parking lot! Ham and turkey sub with cheese and lots of mayo. Mmmm...
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!
February 21, 2009
Racing Plans - How's That for Optimism!?
In an attempt to be optimistic about my future in running (injury-free, that is), I signed up for a 25K trail run in the upper peninsula of Michigan today, the Tahqua Trail Run. Now I'm all excited again!!! It is now okay if I can't run my marathon, because this race is in August (PLENTY of time to heal) and it sounds so FUN!! Matt and I love hiking and camping in the U.P. We've been to the Tahquamenon Falls area many times and always love it, even when I bring ticks back into the Jeep with me. haha! (Too bad they don't make Frontline for people.) I've learned to do a tick-check before getting back into my vehicle since my last trip in the U.P. I found a tick on me on two separate excursions that day! Sheesh! I think I was darn lucky they hadn't dug their little suckers into me yet, though being a vet tech, I do know how to remove them. Anyway, the race is part of the Great Lakes Endurance Series which was recognized by Runner's World several months ago as being one of the most environmentally friendly races in the country. Cool!
After another set of paychecks goes through, I'm also going to register for the Crim 10M in downtown Flint and the Brooksie Way Half Marathon in Rochester, Michigan. These are both races we (Matt and I) ran for the first time last year and loved. The Crim is a Flint tradition that really showcases what is good about Flint. (I was actually born in Flint and grew up down the road in Grand Blanc.) Poor Flint has had it hard over the years and the current situation with the Big Three is not making things any better, so events like the Crim mean that much more to those who still hold out hope for the city. Even though the Crim's longest race is a 10-miler, it still draws big name runners each year and the top 10 usually is filled up with Kenyans and Ethiopians!
Last year was the first year for the Brooksie Way. It takes place in the town where both Matt and I work, Rochester, Michigan. Rochester is the polar opposite of Flint. It is a nice, upscale suburban town. The race actually ends on the grounds of Meadow Brook Mansion (where Matt and I got married!) - "... a 110-room, 88,000-square-foot, Tudor-revival style home," with the most beautiful grounds and gardens you can imagine. It is on the campus of Oakland University. The inaugural race drew over 4000 participants! It was amazing to see such support for a new race. Of course, teaming up with the Crim Foundation was genius. That helped tremendously, I'm sure. This is a very hilly race. It was my first half marathon and I picked a doozy! I was thrilled to cross the finish in under 1:45! I hope to blow that time away this year. Oh yeah!
Another race still under consideration is the Volkslaufe in Frankenmuth, Michigan on July 4th. That could be a very fun weekend with fireworks, music and party in town the night before the race. Frankenmuth is a very fun little German town (very touristy, but still fun). The overall and age group winners actually get beer steins! haha!
As far as Fall marathons go, I've started thinking about the Detroit marathon (last choice), the Grand Rapids marathon, one of the Toronto marathons, Milwaukee, Columbus or Indy marathons. Chicago is OUT - waaaaay too expensive. Sheesh!
Guess I should throw my workout report in here. Did 45 minutes on the upright stationary bike today. I tried the Hill pre-programmed workout. It was called "Around the World". Not sure what it was supposed to be simulating! But it was still more interesting than just pedaling away. Matt actually joined me for core and upper body strength training today. Yay!!! We did free weights together so I was able to use the old-fashioned bench press since I had a spotter! It was much more fun today with hubby along!
After another set of paychecks goes through, I'm also going to register for the Crim 10M in downtown Flint and the Brooksie Way Half Marathon in Rochester, Michigan. These are both races we (Matt and I) ran for the first time last year and loved. The Crim is a Flint tradition that really showcases what is good about Flint. (I was actually born in Flint and grew up down the road in Grand Blanc.) Poor Flint has had it hard over the years and the current situation with the Big Three is not making things any better, so events like the Crim mean that much more to those who still hold out hope for the city. Even though the Crim's longest race is a 10-miler, it still draws big name runners each year and the top 10 usually is filled up with Kenyans and Ethiopians!
Last year was the first year for the Brooksie Way. It takes place in the town where both Matt and I work, Rochester, Michigan. Rochester is the polar opposite of Flint. It is a nice, upscale suburban town. The race actually ends on the grounds of Meadow Brook Mansion (where Matt and I got married!) - "... a 110-room, 88,000-square-foot, Tudor-revival style home," with the most beautiful grounds and gardens you can imagine. It is on the campus of Oakland University. The inaugural race drew over 4000 participants! It was amazing to see such support for a new race. Of course, teaming up with the Crim Foundation was genius. That helped tremendously, I'm sure. This is a very hilly race. It was my first half marathon and I picked a doozy! I was thrilled to cross the finish in under 1:45! I hope to blow that time away this year. Oh yeah!
Another race still under consideration is the Volkslaufe in Frankenmuth, Michigan on July 4th. That could be a very fun weekend with fireworks, music and party in town the night before the race. Frankenmuth is a very fun little German town (very touristy, but still fun). The overall and age group winners actually get beer steins! haha!
As far as Fall marathons go, I've started thinking about the Detroit marathon (last choice), the Grand Rapids marathon, one of the Toronto marathons, Milwaukee, Columbus or Indy marathons. Chicago is OUT - waaaaay too expensive. Sheesh!
Guess I should throw my workout report in here. Did 45 minutes on the upright stationary bike today. I tried the Hill pre-programmed workout. It was called "Around the World". Not sure what it was supposed to be simulating! But it was still more interesting than just pedaling away. Matt actually joined me for core and upper body strength training today. Yay!!! We did free weights together so I was able to use the old-fashioned bench press since I had a spotter! It was much more fun today with hubby along!
February 20, 2009
Updated Race Schedule
I added several tentative races to the schedule at the bottom of the page if anyone (ie. mom) is interested. :-)
Free Medical Advice! (yes, from a physician!)
Here’s how badly I miss running. I took my finisher’s certificate from my best half-marathon off my computer desktop because it made me so sad to see it everyday. Now there’s a peaceful nature scene. It’s not really helping.
I do have a bit of good news. I mentioned before that I don’t have insurance and therefore can’t see a doctor about my heel injury. Well, yesterday in our local paper, there was an article about a free clinic at the local running store put on by a podiatrist who is also a runner!!!! How awesome is that!! He’ll be doing free foot physicals, biometrical evaluations and gait analysis. I’ll be the first one there for sure! I kinda feel like Julie Andrews in the Sound of Music – I must have done something right because fate is smiling on me! haha!!
Because of the clinic which is planned for next Tuesday, I’m putting off my tentative return to running until after I get advice from the doctor. I was going to try building up to a jog from a brisk walk on Sunday, but I think it’d be wise to hold off for those two extra days. After three weeks, what is two more days??
I missed reporting on my last workout because the dratted TV was blaring while I was trying to type. I’m one of those who can’t focus with noise in the background, so I gave up on blogging that day. Anyway, the last two days were great cross-training days that found me on the stationary bike (upright and recumbent again) and the elliptical for cardio. Yesterday I did my core and upper body strength training and today I did a little more core work and legs.
Since I’m not running, I figured this would be the perfect time to try a spinning class with my husband. He’d already done the class once and loved it, so I joined him yesterday. For all I know, it may have been a great class. However, I could only hear about a quarter of what the instructor was saying, so I couldn’t follow along very well. The music was so loud that the instructor sounded more like an adult from the Peanuts cartoons, “Wawawa wawawaah.” Then my legs starting cramping up and I couldn’t continue to pedal, so about 45 minutes into the hour-long class I got up and left. I kinda felt like a wuss, but if ya can’t pedal, ya can’t very well do a cycling class, eh? Maybe I’ll give it one more try and tell the instructor at the beginning that I couldn’t hear him last time. Matt (husband) said he had a harder time understanding him too – that last class he was easier to understand, so maybe there’s hope.
I do have a bit of good news. I mentioned before that I don’t have insurance and therefore can’t see a doctor about my heel injury. Well, yesterday in our local paper, there was an article about a free clinic at the local running store put on by a podiatrist who is also a runner!!!! How awesome is that!! He’ll be doing free foot physicals, biometrical evaluations and gait analysis. I’ll be the first one there for sure! I kinda feel like Julie Andrews in the Sound of Music – I must have done something right because fate is smiling on me! haha!!
Because of the clinic which is planned for next Tuesday, I’m putting off my tentative return to running until after I get advice from the doctor. I was going to try building up to a jog from a brisk walk on Sunday, but I think it’d be wise to hold off for those two extra days. After three weeks, what is two more days??
I missed reporting on my last workout because the dratted TV was blaring while I was trying to type. I’m one of those who can’t focus with noise in the background, so I gave up on blogging that day. Anyway, the last two days were great cross-training days that found me on the stationary bike (upright and recumbent again) and the elliptical for cardio. Yesterday I did my core and upper body strength training and today I did a little more core work and legs.
Since I’m not running, I figured this would be the perfect time to try a spinning class with my husband. He’d already done the class once and loved it, so I joined him yesterday. For all I know, it may have been a great class. However, I could only hear about a quarter of what the instructor was saying, so I couldn’t follow along very well. The music was so loud that the instructor sounded more like an adult from the Peanuts cartoons, “Wawawa wawawaah.” Then my legs starting cramping up and I couldn’t continue to pedal, so about 45 minutes into the hour-long class I got up and left. I kinda felt like a wuss, but if ya can’t pedal, ya can’t very well do a cycling class, eh? Maybe I’ll give it one more try and tell the instructor at the beginning that I couldn’t hear him last time. Matt (husband) said he had a harder time understanding him too – that last class he was easier to understand, so maybe there’s hope.
February 17, 2009
Uncertainty Sucks
My heel is feeling really good lately. No more tenderness, just a tingly feeling every once in a while. I'm currently on week 3 of "no running". Since the heel is feeling much better, I'm going to give it several more days and then try walking briskly on Sunday and see how that feels. If all goes well during the walk, I may try a slow run for a few miles. I'm very nervous about it. If it starts hurting again, that means I need a lot more time off. There's little chance I'll be able to get myself ready for Bayshore on May 23rd. I suppose I shouldn't let what *might* happen bother me, but I'm only human. I can't help it.
I was realizing the other day that the uncertainty about this injury is the worst part about it. If I knew I couldn't do the marathon, I could deal with it and move on. I could start planning for my "second first" marathon. If I knew I only needed a few weeks off and I'd be fine, then I could hold onto my excitement for my first marathon. Not knowing is just plain frustrating and emotionally wearing. Which will it be?
I'm about 97% recovered from my GI bug. :-) I've never had an illness last that long! It took a full week!
I went to the gym today and did 45 minutes on the upright stationary bike (15 minutes steady pace and 30 minutes "random" intervals). It was a great workout! Then I hopped on the elliptical again. The jury's still out on that machine. Not sure how much I like it. I'm trying to talk myself into hitting the pool. My poor excuses for not swimming are a lack of a one piece suit and no goggles. That wouldn't stop many people but I am cheap! I don't like spending money on "stuff" unless it is running or camping"stuff" and even then I cringe at the checkout counter. :)
Anyway, after my cardio I did a great core workout (I was able to do the Superman today! Yay! Tummy feels MUCH better!) and upper body weight training. I also got a good eye muscle workout inadvertently. There was a group of young, skinny teenage boys in the free weight room who didn't have a clue what they were doing. They consistenly grabbed weights that were WAY too heavy for them and then struggled to do even a handful of reps. Hopefully they didn't hurt themselves with their nonexistent form. My eyes practically rolled out of my head. haha!
I was realizing the other day that the uncertainty about this injury is the worst part about it. If I knew I couldn't do the marathon, I could deal with it and move on. I could start planning for my "second first" marathon. If I knew I only needed a few weeks off and I'd be fine, then I could hold onto my excitement for my first marathon. Not knowing is just plain frustrating and emotionally wearing. Which will it be?
I'm about 97% recovered from my GI bug. :-) I've never had an illness last that long! It took a full week!
I went to the gym today and did 45 minutes on the upright stationary bike (15 minutes steady pace and 30 minutes "random" intervals). It was a great workout! Then I hopped on the elliptical again. The jury's still out on that machine. Not sure how much I like it. I'm trying to talk myself into hitting the pool. My poor excuses for not swimming are a lack of a one piece suit and no goggles. That wouldn't stop many people but I am cheap! I don't like spending money on "stuff" unless it is running or camping"stuff" and even then I cringe at the checkout counter. :)
Anyway, after my cardio I did a great core workout (I was able to do the Superman today! Yay! Tummy feels MUCH better!) and upper body weight training. I also got a good eye muscle workout inadvertently. There was a group of young, skinny teenage boys in the free weight room who didn't have a clue what they were doing. They consistenly grabbed weights that were WAY too heavy for them and then struggled to do even a handful of reps. Hopefully they didn't hurt themselves with their nonexistent form. My eyes practically rolled out of my head. haha!
February 15, 2009
Back at it, Red.
Alright. I'm back at it. Not running, unfortunately, but at least I can cross-train again. That GI virus is nearly finished being overcome by my immune system and I went back to the gym today for the first time since last Tuesday. I probably should have taken today off too, but I couldn't stand being sedentary anymore! I AM AN ATHLETE!!!!!
That felt good.
Today I spent 33 minutes on the upright bike and 15 on the recumbant (for my glutes!). I did a moderately easy resistance level since I am still not 100% yet. I also gave the elliptical a try for the first time today. Not a bad workout. Only did 15 minutes since I already had spent so much time on the bike.
Then it was over to the mats for core work. After core was upper body and leg strength training. Did all of my strength training with machines today instead of free weights. I usually mix it up a bit for variety, but the free weight area was BUSY, so I stayed away today.
One of my favorite strength training machines that I use almost every time is the chin-up and tricep-dip machine with assistance. You can gradually reduce the amount of assistance until you're able to do the exercises without any help. I'm already there with the dips and progressing nicely with chin-ups (wide-grip). So don't mess with this 1 buck redhead. haha!! Actually, I can do 7 narrow-grip chin-ups with no assistance already. I'm so proud!
I could feel my GI tract grumble at me at times for not giving it more recovery time. I couldn't do any exercises in the prone position. Oh no. That was out of the question. No pressure on the abdomen today, thank you very much. That meant Lolo's superman was a no-no and my prone hamstring curl didn't happen. I found other ways to work my glutes, lower back and hams. Variety is the spice of life.
That felt good.
Today I spent 33 minutes on the upright bike and 15 on the recumbant (for my glutes!). I did a moderately easy resistance level since I am still not 100% yet. I also gave the elliptical a try for the first time today. Not a bad workout. Only did 15 minutes since I already had spent so much time on the bike.
Then it was over to the mats for core work. After core was upper body and leg strength training. Did all of my strength training with machines today instead of free weights. I usually mix it up a bit for variety, but the free weight area was BUSY, so I stayed away today.
One of my favorite strength training machines that I use almost every time is the chin-up and tricep-dip machine with assistance. You can gradually reduce the amount of assistance until you're able to do the exercises without any help. I'm already there with the dips and progressing nicely with chin-ups (wide-grip). So don't mess with this 1 buck redhead. haha!! Actually, I can do 7 narrow-grip chin-ups with no assistance already. I'm so proud!
I could feel my GI tract grumble at me at times for not giving it more recovery time. I couldn't do any exercises in the prone position. Oh no. That was out of the question. No pressure on the abdomen today, thank you very much. That meant Lolo's superman was a no-no and my prone hamstring curl didn't happen. I found other ways to work my glutes, lower back and hams. Variety is the spice of life.
February 10, 2009
Hiking the Bald Mountain
I had my gym bag all packed and stowed in the closet at work so I could head straight to the gym when my shift was over. After I clocked out, I stuck my head outside because I heard a rumor that Spring was in the air. Boy was it! Mid-February in Michigan is usually not much warmer than January, but today it hit the upper 50s!! And it was sunny!! Though it killed me not being able to run in it, I did the next best thing. I went hiking on my favorite trails.
It was fabulous! The trails were thick with slush. Thank GOD for Gore-Tex hiking boots! Even the wind felt pleasant instead of frigid for a change. And I have to admit, as much as I love new running gear, I was a hiker first, and I really love putting on my hiking gear! I can't wait to get a new backpack this year! (REI dividends - woo!) The walk made me long for summer camping trips and long hikes on technical trails. I had to make the most of this day, and I'm glad I put cross-training on hold for just this one time.
I was a good girl when I got home and did my core work and upper body strength training. We have a nice complement of dumbbells and a workout bench, so even though I prefer the gym, I can work every muscle group at home. Plus, it let me spend more time with my hubby who is also sidelined with an injury. My injury allows me to cross-train, but he is on doctor's orders to do nothing for at least 2 weeks. Poor man.
We were working on optimism today and made some plans for a few more races this year. We will soon be registering for the Crim 10 Mile in Flint, MI and the Brooksie Way Half Marathon (hilly!) in Rochester, MI. We did them both last year for the first time and loved both races. Since the Crim has a special place in my heart (it is in my hometown and one of the few really good things about poor Flint) and Brooksie is in the town Matt and I both work in, we'll probably end up making these two races we do every year - a new tradition for us. We also might make racing on Mackinac Island and/or the upper peninsula at least once each year a tradition. That way we can tag a camping trip on the front or rear end of the race!
It was fabulous! The trails were thick with slush. Thank GOD for Gore-Tex hiking boots! Even the wind felt pleasant instead of frigid for a change. And I have to admit, as much as I love new running gear, I was a hiker first, and I really love putting on my hiking gear! I can't wait to get a new backpack this year! (REI dividends - woo!) The walk made me long for summer camping trips and long hikes on technical trails. I had to make the most of this day, and I'm glad I put cross-training on hold for just this one time.
I was a good girl when I got home and did my core work and upper body strength training. We have a nice complement of dumbbells and a workout bench, so even though I prefer the gym, I can work every muscle group at home. Plus, it let me spend more time with my hubby who is also sidelined with an injury. My injury allows me to cross-train, but he is on doctor's orders to do nothing for at least 2 weeks. Poor man.
We were working on optimism today and made some plans for a few more races this year. We will soon be registering for the Crim 10 Mile in Flint, MI and the Brooksie Way Half Marathon (hilly!) in Rochester, MI. We did them both last year for the first time and loved both races. Since the Crim has a special place in my heart (it is in my hometown and one of the few really good things about poor Flint) and Brooksie is in the town Matt and I both work in, we'll probably end up making these two races we do every year - a new tradition for us. We also might make racing on Mackinac Island and/or the upper peninsula at least once each year a tradition. That way we can tag a camping trip on the front or rear end of the race!
February 8, 2009
Heal, Heel!!
Wouldn't it figure my 4-pack of seasonal GU (mint chocolate, Mmmm) would arrive just in time for me to stop training. Yes, yes, I'm whining again. It is part of my daily frustration release. The March print version of RW recommended it. Really. Usually I just cry, but today I decided to put my thoughts on paper and eat cake. Really GOOD cake. Cake made with Bailey's Irish Cream. I spent several hours at the gym today and I deserve it, damn it.
I've also become a cross-training maniac. According to my beloved RW training log, I've spent 3 hrs 38 minutes on the stationary bike this week - a combo of the upright and recumbent bikes. I like the recumbent because it really works my glutes. So much so that I can't stay on it for long periods of time until my rear gets in better shape! I wonder if I'll come out of this convalescence a better hill runner! Oh yeah!
I will also be much stronger by the time this recovery period is over. I did core work and weight training four times each this week - 3 times upper body, 2 times legs (what I can do that doesn't involve my aching heel).
Speaking, er, writing of my heel. I'm not so convinced it is an achilles injury any more. The pain was initially right at the spot where my achilles attaches to the heel bone, but that pain is completely gone. In fact, it was gone within a few days and I have complete range of motion in my ankle. The swelling and tenderness has migrated. Can it do that? Silly question. Of course it can. It DID! Anyway, the tenderness is now on the bottom of my foot at the very back part of my heel. I don't feel anything with comfy shoes on, but when I'm at home and shoeless, I definitely feel achy. I still pop ibu pills and ice everyday. Here's hoping my GI tract, liver and kidneys can handle that much drug. ha!
What could it possibly be if it isn't achilles? Who knows. A doctor might know, but a doctor would take all the money that I need for things like mortgage, groceries, heat, water, running shoes and Bailey's cake. And what would a doctor do? Give my injury a name and tell me to do what I'm doing right now - resting. I know there is the potential to be more to it than that, but that's the most likely scenario. So, at least one more week of no running at all is in order, then I'll reevaluate my pesky little foot. Wish me luck!
I've also become a cross-training maniac. According to my beloved RW training log, I've spent 3 hrs 38 minutes on the stationary bike this week - a combo of the upright and recumbent bikes. I like the recumbent because it really works my glutes. So much so that I can't stay on it for long periods of time until my rear gets in better shape! I wonder if I'll come out of this convalescence a better hill runner! Oh yeah!
I will also be much stronger by the time this recovery period is over. I did core work and weight training four times each this week - 3 times upper body, 2 times legs (what I can do that doesn't involve my aching heel).
Speaking, er, writing of my heel. I'm not so convinced it is an achilles injury any more. The pain was initially right at the spot where my achilles attaches to the heel bone, but that pain is completely gone. In fact, it was gone within a few days and I have complete range of motion in my ankle. The swelling and tenderness has migrated. Can it do that? Silly question. Of course it can. It DID! Anyway, the tenderness is now on the bottom of my foot at the very back part of my heel. I don't feel anything with comfy shoes on, but when I'm at home and shoeless, I definitely feel achy. I still pop ibu pills and ice everyday. Here's hoping my GI tract, liver and kidneys can handle that much drug. ha!
What could it possibly be if it isn't achilles? Who knows. A doctor might know, but a doctor would take all the money that I need for things like mortgage, groceries, heat, water, running shoes and Bailey's cake. And what would a doctor do? Give my injury a name and tell me to do what I'm doing right now - resting. I know there is the potential to be more to it than that, but that's the most likely scenario. So, at least one more week of no running at all is in order, then I'll reevaluate my pesky little foot. Wish me luck!
February 5, 2009
Red the Reluctant Convalescent
It's been 4 whole days with no running at all. It has seemed like an eternity. And the convalescence is far from over. The first 48 hours saw the greatest amount of obvious recovery. I finally got to the point where I could walk almost normally and relatively pain-free. Now the recovery seems to have plateaued. My heel is still tender and swollen and there is a palpable knot where I first felt the pain. I'm sure the fact that I work on my feet all day does nothing to help speed recovery. *sigh* Each night when I get home I ice the heel and have been taking ibuprofen regularly.
My first day at the gym after the injury I spent 45 minutes on the stationary bike. I was quite proud of myself! That's the longest I've ever been on one of those machines! And if you think treadmills are boring... Today I again got on the bike and tried one of the pre-programmed workouts. That made all the difference. It was far more fun! I stayed on for 50 minutes this time and got a great workout. Perhaps this recovery time will make a bicyclist out of me! In fact, I started wondering if bicyclists ever get overuse injuries like we(runners) do and if so, what are they? They obviously do not get the same kind of pounding on the joints like we do, so I'm betting they get injured far less frequently, but I could be wrong! It's happened before. Really. Once or twice.
I've kept up my strength training. I'll probably do it more often now. Might as well. I actually enjoy lifting weights and have had to hold back while training for races so I don't burn out on fitness in general. Don't want to spend all my free time at the gym. Okay, maybe I would like to spend all my free time at the gym, but I shouldn't. Gotta make some semblance of an attempt at being a well-rounded person! haha!
My first day at the gym after the injury I spent 45 minutes on the stationary bike. I was quite proud of myself! That's the longest I've ever been on one of those machines! And if you think treadmills are boring... Today I again got on the bike and tried one of the pre-programmed workouts. That made all the difference. It was far more fun! I stayed on for 50 minutes this time and got a great workout. Perhaps this recovery time will make a bicyclist out of me! In fact, I started wondering if bicyclists ever get overuse injuries like we(runners) do and if so, what are they? They obviously do not get the same kind of pounding on the joints like we do, so I'm betting they get injured far less frequently, but I could be wrong! It's happened before. Really. Once or twice.
I've kept up my strength training. I'll probably do it more often now. Might as well. I actually enjoy lifting weights and have had to hold back while training for races so I don't burn out on fitness in general. Don't want to spend all my free time at the gym. Okay, maybe I would like to spend all my free time at the gym, but I shouldn't. Gotta make some semblance of an attempt at being a well-rounded person! haha!
February 2, 2009
Red's Injury Report - Vol II
I had to work today - 12 hours on my feet. My heel felt swollen all day and although it does not hurt to walk, the tightness at the achilles makes it hard to walk normally. I'm guessing it is an achilles injury - the pain yesterday was right where the tendon attaches to the heel. I raided the medicine cabinet at work this morning for an antiinflammatory knowing that it'd be a long day (and I forgot to bring meds from home). There was no ibuprofen and the aspirin bottle expired in 2003. Fortunately there was some naproxen. I prefer ibuprofen for swelling, but beggars can't be choosers, eh?
Now that I'm FINALLY home, I'm icing it again. I think running may be out for a few weeks. Hello, pool and stationary bike, here I come! Now that a day has passed, I'm somewhat calmer and thinking more reasonably. Taking 3-4 weeks off will not ruin me. I will probably still be able to run my races, though I may not be as competitive. I wish I could afford to do the right thing - see a doctor and get some PT, but that is not in the budget. It sucks.
This poor achilles is really taking a beating too. Last summer it was bothering me about an 1 - 1 1/2 inches above the spot where I injured it yesterday. That old injury was never very bad. I didn't have to stop running. I just cut back on mileage, took it easy on hills, didn't do speedwork and started stretching and strength training more regularly. Now that the old achilles injury is almost healed, another point along the tendon decides to go on strike! Grrrrrr...
To end on a happy, totally non-running related note: I got to help save a kitty's life today! Yay!! He couldn't pee. Poor fella was miserable. Now he has a tube coming out of both ends - his front leg and his rear end. Plus he's sporting a high-fashion Elizabethan collar. He looks like a satellite dish. hehe! But at least he's alive and not in pain anymore.
Now that I'm FINALLY home, I'm icing it again. I think running may be out for a few weeks. Hello, pool and stationary bike, here I come! Now that a day has passed, I'm somewhat calmer and thinking more reasonably. Taking 3-4 weeks off will not ruin me. I will probably still be able to run my races, though I may not be as competitive. I wish I could afford to do the right thing - see a doctor and get some PT, but that is not in the budget. It sucks.
This poor achilles is really taking a beating too. Last summer it was bothering me about an 1 - 1 1/2 inches above the spot where I injured it yesterday. That old injury was never very bad. I didn't have to stop running. I just cut back on mileage, took it easy on hills, didn't do speedwork and started stretching and strength training more regularly. Now that the old achilles injury is almost healed, another point along the tendon decides to go on strike! Grrrrrr...
To end on a happy, totally non-running related note: I got to help save a kitty's life today! Yay!! He couldn't pee. Poor fella was miserable. Now he has a tube coming out of both ends - his front leg and his rear end. Plus he's sporting a high-fashion Elizabethan collar. He looks like a satellite dish. hehe! But at least he's alive and not in pain anymore.
February 1, 2009
Injured Red
I was supposed to run an easy 7 miles today. I drove straight from the baby shower (ugh!) to the gym to get my easy run and strength training in before going home to watch the big game. I was kicking myself a little for not packing outdoor running clothes because it was over 40F and sunny by the time the shower was over. I wanted to run outside so badly, but all I had was a tank and running shorts. Ten degrees warmer and I might have run outside anyway!
Well, 7 miles didn't happen today. Around mile 3 I started feeling a little tweek at the back of my right heel. By mile 4 it had developed into true pain and I was forced to stop. Now I'm very worried about it. I went ahead and did my core and upper body training and limped to my car for the drive home. Now I'm icing it and I already popped a few ibuprofen. I don't even want to think about it too much because it is already starting to depress me. Yet, here I am blogging about it. Okay, maybe I'm fishing for sympathy just a little.
I have no idea how serious it is and yet I keep thinking of the worst. What if I have to stop training? What if I can't run any of the three races I've already registered for in the next four months? What if I can't run my first marathon that I've already put so much physical and emotional investment into? I will be crushed. During almost every training run I start picturing myself finishing the marathon and imaging how it will feel accomplishing something so amazing. You might as well stick a knife in my chest than take that away from me. It's all I look forward to. It keeps me going through long, stressful weeks at work... I'm having trouble seeing the screen right now, so I better change subjects.
On the plus side, today I learned how to make a most delicious smoothie. One cup milk (2%), half cup vanilla yogurt, frozen bananas and one packet of the protein recovery stuff that I got as a free sample from Lifetime. Hmmm, their marketing strategy may have worked on me. And I love it when good-for-me stuff tastes like dessert!
Well, 7 miles didn't happen today. Around mile 3 I started feeling a little tweek at the back of my right heel. By mile 4 it had developed into true pain and I was forced to stop. Now I'm very worried about it. I went ahead and did my core and upper body training and limped to my car for the drive home. Now I'm icing it and I already popped a few ibuprofen. I don't even want to think about it too much because it is already starting to depress me. Yet, here I am blogging about it. Okay, maybe I'm fishing for sympathy just a little.
I have no idea how serious it is and yet I keep thinking of the worst. What if I have to stop training? What if I can't run any of the three races I've already registered for in the next four months? What if I can't run my first marathon that I've already put so much physical and emotional investment into? I will be crushed. During almost every training run I start picturing myself finishing the marathon and imaging how it will feel accomplishing something so amazing. You might as well stick a knife in my chest than take that away from me. It's all I look forward to. It keeps me going through long, stressful weeks at work... I'm having trouble seeing the screen right now, so I better change subjects.
On the plus side, today I learned how to make a most delicious smoothie. One cup milk (2%), half cup vanilla yogurt, frozen bananas and one packet of the protein recovery stuff that I got as a free sample from Lifetime. Hmmm, their marketing strategy may have worked on me. And I love it when good-for-me stuff tastes like dessert!
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