So yesterday I went wandering around some of the Open Space areas around here and found some rather great trails. I did about 11 miles on a trail in the mountains and I had a wonderful time.
This morning I went to another open space park and got in about 6 miles on the trails. The weather has been absolutely wonderful and I am really enjoying the outdoors. I also got some "trail" shoes, they are J-41s and while they are absolutely light as a feather they feel like air on my feet. They were great this morning for the trails.
I'll have to get some pictures posted about those trails - fantastic and very scenic. The one today was all red dirt, so my feet came back looking like Hell Boy's, but it was still fun :-)
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Yesterday - Fries and Beer
Was bad. Fries and beer. And cake. Umm... no workout. I hope Traci did better!
Friday, March 18, 2011
Stationary Bike & Freakonomics
Did 30 minutes on the stationary bike on the hills course today. Averaged rmps of 67, and worked up quite a sweat. The best part was I did it while watching the documentary version of Freakonomics which is on instant watch on Netflix!
A Walk, A Strut and A DVD
Sounds like the start to a great joke, right? Yeah, right - definitely not. So after taking benadryl and being dead to the world for a seemingly eternal piece of time, I went out this afternoon to get some fresh air ... that turned into an 8 mile walk and absolute bliss. Sure, the weather wasn't great, but it didn't matter. I needed to clear my head and this worked out just fine.
Then later on I did Bob's workout. I didn't want to delve into another 10 minute solution because I'm still not feeling 100%, so Bob did the trick. It was stretching bliss and felt like a good workout.
Tomorrow, it is supposed to be in the upper 60s again, so I'm going to try and get a run in during the waking hours, then go to a finance seminar, and then in the afternoon try and map out a new route.
Then later on I did Bob's workout. I didn't want to delve into another 10 minute solution because I'm still not feeling 100%, so Bob did the trick. It was stretching bliss and felt like a good workout.
Tomorrow, it is supposed to be in the upper 60s again, so I'm going to try and get a run in during the waking hours, then go to a finance seminar, and then in the afternoon try and map out a new route.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Repeat This: "I Am A Runner"
Traci, have you heard? Heard what? No, not bird is the word.
WE are RUNNERS. Say it out loud: "I am a runner."
I don't think of myself as a runner. I consider myself a dabbler in exercise. I walk a bit, jog a bit, run a bit, do yoga a bit, and dabble here and there. But according to my book about women runners, we are runners. And we need to say it, repeat it, and live it. We've run many miles. We've done long distances and short distances. We have run, therefore, we are runners. Congrats :)
Today for my workout, I ran 6 miles. Good run. It was cool outside. I decided to skip going to the track around the university, and just wove in and around the neighborhood by my house.
WE are RUNNERS. Say it out loud: "I am a runner."
I don't think of myself as a runner. I consider myself a dabbler in exercise. I walk a bit, jog a bit, run a bit, do yoga a bit, and dabble here and there. But according to my book about women runners, we are runners. And we need to say it, repeat it, and live it. We've run many miles. We've done long distances and short distances. We have run, therefore, we are runners. Congrats :)
Today for my workout, I ran 6 miles. Good run. It was cool outside. I decided to skip going to the track around the university, and just wove in and around the neighborhood by my house.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Rest Day
Wednesday, hump day, will be my new rest day. I did have a relaxing day.
Traci, I hope you had a rest day too!
Traci, I hope you had a rest day too!
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Shoe Review & Running Roulette
I have a few mini blog posts to share with you today:
Shoe Review: Nike Skylon 11
The things I like most about these shoes are that they're very lightweight and very breathable. The things I don't like are the stiffness of the outsole at the toe area, and the deep grooves in the outsole. While I was running today, rocks kept getting stuck in the grooves of the outsole. If you saw me on the corner of Bissonnet and Montrose today, kicking lamp posts and scraping my shoe on curbs, I did not step in poop. I was trying to scrape the rocks out of the grooves of my shoes. I will put my miles in in these shoes, but for next time, I'm going to try to get a light shoe with a flatter outsole. I would buy the Nike Moto 7s again, but they were a limited item apparently, and have been replaced by the Moto 8, which is quite different. Yet another reason to go with a more serious running shoe company next time that doesn't change models so often. I've got my eyes on the New Balance 890s and the Saucony Kinvara and A4.
Running Roulette
I put in 6 miles today in the new shoes out on the popular running route around Rice University. I'm not the biggest fan of this running loop. It tends to be busy, and isn't well lit, so running after dark is not very safe. It's about a mile away from my house, and walking there requires making my way through a bit of traffic. And here is where I rant a bit... sometimes I hate Houston. Two times while I was out today, I almost got hit by cars. I didn't dart out in traffic. Both times, I was leisurely walking across the street when these cars (actually, trucks) decided, nope, let's just go ahead and drive straight at the pedestrian and then come to a screeching halt in the middle of the street. Now, the question is, do I keep up with this route? Am I playing the odds every time I head out for a run in this part of town? Or am I better off driving to the other popular running area at a park that's entirely traffic-free? My other option is to do what I was doing before, and that was doing laps and laps and laps around the other, smaller university where there is less traffic.
The Complete Book of Running for Women
I picked up The Complete Book of Running for Women, while I was out on my walk to the grocery store today. I had read quite a few reviews about this book, and picked it out over a couple other running books for women. I haven't had a chance to look through too much of it yet, but the couple parts I did read were so informative. I think I might just use this book along with the online access to Runners World for running info right now. One of the little sections I read before I went out on my run was about running rate (steps per minute). The book noted that as beginner runners get more advanced, their number of footfalls per minute rises generally from about 160 to 180. One way to better your running off the bat is to focus on increasing your rate. So, when I went out on my run today, I spent the first 15-minutes or so timing/counting my rate, and speeding up my rate. I felt like I was moving a bit spasmically, but I did get my rate up to 180. So far, I like this book and recommend it if you don't already have it.
Shoe Review: Nike Skylon 11
The things I like most about these shoes are that they're very lightweight and very breathable. The things I don't like are the stiffness of the outsole at the toe area, and the deep grooves in the outsole. While I was running today, rocks kept getting stuck in the grooves of the outsole. If you saw me on the corner of Bissonnet and Montrose today, kicking lamp posts and scraping my shoe on curbs, I did not step in poop. I was trying to scrape the rocks out of the grooves of my shoes. I will put my miles in in these shoes, but for next time, I'm going to try to get a light shoe with a flatter outsole. I would buy the Nike Moto 7s again, but they were a limited item apparently, and have been replaced by the Moto 8, which is quite different. Yet another reason to go with a more serious running shoe company next time that doesn't change models so often. I've got my eyes on the New Balance 890s and the Saucony Kinvara and A4.
Running Roulette
I put in 6 miles today in the new shoes out on the popular running route around Rice University. I'm not the biggest fan of this running loop. It tends to be busy, and isn't well lit, so running after dark is not very safe. It's about a mile away from my house, and walking there requires making my way through a bit of traffic. And here is where I rant a bit... sometimes I hate Houston. Two times while I was out today, I almost got hit by cars. I didn't dart out in traffic. Both times, I was leisurely walking across the street when these cars (actually, trucks) decided, nope, let's just go ahead and drive straight at the pedestrian and then come to a screeching halt in the middle of the street. Now, the question is, do I keep up with this route? Am I playing the odds every time I head out for a run in this part of town? Or am I better off driving to the other popular running area at a park that's entirely traffic-free? My other option is to do what I was doing before, and that was doing laps and laps and laps around the other, smaller university where there is less traffic.
The Complete Book of Running for Women
I picked up The Complete Book of Running for Women, while I was out on my walk to the grocery store today. I had read quite a few reviews about this book, and picked it out over a couple other running books for women. I haven't had a chance to look through too much of it yet, but the couple parts I did read were so informative. I think I might just use this book along with the online access to Runners World for running info right now. One of the little sections I read before I went out on my run was about running rate (steps per minute). The book noted that as beginner runners get more advanced, their number of footfalls per minute rises generally from about 160 to 180. One way to better your running off the bat is to focus on increasing your rate. So, when I went out on my run today, I spent the first 15-minutes or so timing/counting my rate, and speeding up my rate. I felt like I was moving a bit spasmically, but I did get my rate up to 180. So far, I like this book and recommend it if you don't already have it.
Calf Sleeves
So my calf sleeves showed up today. I don't think I'll have a chance to use them tomorrow, but I'm hoping Thursday and Friday will give me a chance to see if they really are great. If they are anything like my compression tights, they are going to be great ... and then my legs will be completely covered :-)
BTW, my treadmill will be here tomorrow as well. Ready to give that one a whirl for sure.
BTW, my treadmill will be here tomorrow as well. Ready to give that one a whirl for sure.
Note to self . . .
Regardless of how good your immune system is and regardless of the fact that you never seem to get sick . . . when a house of six kids has all six of them sick with the flu, play it smart and don't venture through the doors.
Well, I did venture through the doors and now find myself with a very mild cough and congested chest. I swear kids are bigger carriers than rats were for the plague. To some it is a cold, to me it is a minor annoyance. I don't consider this being sick . . . a minor cough does not sick make. However, it makes working out a pain in the ass. Yesterday and today I haven't done any type of cross training because of this yak, but I've been getting in short walks (4-5 miles) so there is movement. This nuisance will be gone before the end of the week, but I do have to say my immune system kicks ass. When everyone in that house ended up with the flu and full-on body aches, I walk away with a little cough. Gotta love it.
Janet, do you have a sturdy bag to use for your grocery shopping? When I was in Cleveland, I used my Vera bags for the trips to the store, and it was great. I have two larger Vera's and one of them I never use. If you want it, I can mail it to you. Fill it up and when it's full you know your trip is done with and it's time to head back home. Plus, those sturdy bags never rip and you will never drop anything on the trek back home.
When I got out here, I did the same thing over the summer. The store is 2 miles away here (it was only 1.5 miles away in Cleveland), but my bag worked out just as well. But for me, the fact that I had to carry my groceries back home never dictated what I purchased.
Well, I did venture through the doors and now find myself with a very mild cough and congested chest. I swear kids are bigger carriers than rats were for the plague. To some it is a cold, to me it is a minor annoyance. I don't consider this being sick . . . a minor cough does not sick make. However, it makes working out a pain in the ass. Yesterday and today I haven't done any type of cross training because of this yak, but I've been getting in short walks (4-5 miles) so there is movement. This nuisance will be gone before the end of the week, but I do have to say my immune system kicks ass. When everyone in that house ended up with the flu and full-on body aches, I walk away with a little cough. Gotta love it.
Janet, do you have a sturdy bag to use for your grocery shopping? When I was in Cleveland, I used my Vera bags for the trips to the store, and it was great. I have two larger Vera's and one of them I never use. If you want it, I can mail it to you. Fill it up and when it's full you know your trip is done with and it's time to head back home. Plus, those sturdy bags never rip and you will never drop anything on the trek back home.
When I got out here, I did the same thing over the summer. The store is 2 miles away here (it was only 1.5 miles away in Cleveland), but my bag worked out just as well. But for me, the fact that I had to carry my groceries back home never dictated what I purchased.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Danskin Now Kettlebell Workout & Grocery Workout
It was such a gorgeous day out today, and Josh took the car out this evening, so I decided to walk the couple blocks to the grocery store to pick up this weeks groceries. I did try to limit what I bought knowing I'd be carrying it all home, but I still ended up with quite a bit: 1 gallon jug of milk, a couple of those Green Giant Steamers packs, a couple packs of Activia yogurt, various vegetables, coffee, etc., etc. Half way home, I was feeling the burn. The walk reminded me of those days as a college student where I didn't own a car, and always walked to the grocery store. It helped me limit my grocery list and my waistline - very efficient! I was certainly healthier then. I think I'll make this a regular thing.
I tried Danskin Now's Kettlebell workout today [Traci, is this the same DVD that you have?]. It was the free DVD that came with my 10 lb kettlebell. The instructor is a peppy woman named Gin Miller. The workout has a warmup and cooldown, and you can select between 3 short workout routines. Since I'm a newbie to the kettlebell concept (this was my first true kettlebell workout) I decided to try all three....... and boy did I get my butt handed to me. All that swinging and balancing really worked out my core in addition to each of the target muscle groups. I was sweating significantly, and I think I'll feel it tomorrow. My favorite move was one where you lift your leg and pass the kettlebell under it into your other hand. I think I'll add this to my routine as well. Kettlebell Mondays it is!
I tried Danskin Now's Kettlebell workout today [Traci, is this the same DVD that you have?]. It was the free DVD that came with my 10 lb kettlebell. The instructor is a peppy woman named Gin Miller. The workout has a warmup and cooldown, and you can select between 3 short workout routines. Since I'm a newbie to the kettlebell concept (this was my first true kettlebell workout) I decided to try all three....... and boy did I get my butt handed to me. All that swinging and balancing really worked out my core in addition to each of the target muscle groups. I was sweating significantly, and I think I'll feel it tomorrow. My favorite move was one where you lift your leg and pass the kettlebell under it into your other hand. I think I'll add this to my routine as well. Kettlebell Mondays it is!
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Stationary Bike & Inspiration
I didn't feel bad waking up this morning after the 10k. There is a bit of tightness in the hamstrings and calves, but nothing more than what I felt after some of the marathon training runs. For my workout today, I decided to do 30 minutes on the stationary bike. I did a hills course at a low-medium intensity with an average rmp of 65. I did sweat, and it did get my heartrate up a bit, but nothing intense since I was still able to talk just fine. I love the feeling after you get off the bike where your quads feel incredibly powerful.
I also picked up a Runners World magazine today for some inspiration, and I'm glad I did. I've never read this magazine before, but now that I've been running a little more, many of the stories made sense. (E.g. how to overcome feeling overwhelmed by the distance of a run, etc.) There's a lot of runner lingo I still don't understand (what's a split?) but it was inspiring to read stories about other beginner runners, as well as Olympic athletes. For example, this month the magazine profiled the trials and triumphs of Olympic Athlete Shalane Flanagan. I was surprised to learn that she had never run a marathon until she did the NYC last year in her late 20s (mind you, she placed second for women). But her story was not full of victories - earlier in her running career, she burned out and collapsed several times at major competitions just before the finish line. I was very intrigued to hear and learn about other people's running styles and I will certainly pay attention to my own in the future. Also, the magazine was full of practical tips like how to pace yourself. They had a cool little pace bracelet you can print out for example, that you can use with your watch during a run to pace yourself for a specific time on a marathon.
I also picked up a Runners World magazine today for some inspiration, and I'm glad I did. I've never read this magazine before, but now that I've been running a little more, many of the stories made sense. (E.g. how to overcome feeling overwhelmed by the distance of a run, etc.) There's a lot of runner lingo I still don't understand (what's a split?) but it was inspiring to read stories about other beginner runners, as well as Olympic athletes. For example, this month the magazine profiled the trials and triumphs of Olympic Athlete Shalane Flanagan. I was surprised to learn that she had never run a marathon until she did the NYC last year in her late 20s (mind you, she placed second for women). But her story was not full of victories - earlier in her running career, she burned out and collapsed several times at major competitions just before the finish line. I was very intrigued to hear and learn about other people's running styles and I will certainly pay attention to my own in the future. Also, the magazine was full of practical tips like how to pace yourself. They had a cool little pace bracelet you can print out for example, that you can use with your watch during a run to pace yourself for a specific time on a marathon.
New Trails, New Fun
So, with the weather as wonderful as it has been this weekend, I decided to try out some new trails. Granted, there is a great bike path system just up the road from where I live that will take me mile after mile after mile, but I just felt like I needed to try something new. I took a drive over to Littleton, and there are a ton of bike paths over that way as well, and I think I found a great one for early mornings. For starters, early morning there is absolutely no foot traffic ... some bikes, yes, but no foot traffic. Second, there is a nice dirt shoulder along the pavement so that I don't have to jostle myself on the pavement if my joints just aren't feeling it. Third, it is nice and open so there is a constant breeze that makes me feel a lot cooler than I actually am. Overall, it was a very nice path, free parking and it was a very easy 10m that I managed to trek out.
I do have to say though, I did recently make another purchase - - - a manual treadmill. Cheap and good enough to walk without freezing my ass off or jog without jarring my joints. I should have it on Monday or Tuesday. On cold mornings or evenings I can get my miles in without having to worry about the elements or another slip and fall. I can blast my tunes, watch some movies and just keep on going.
On another note, during my 10m yesterday, I didn't run as much as I would've liked. I only got in about 2 miles before I changed it to a run/walk and then a walk at the end. I can't compare the time to anything because my pace was clearly erratic, but it is definitely something I need to work on. Something that I hope the manual TM will give me some assistance with.
I do have to say though, I did recently make another purchase - - - a manual treadmill. Cheap and good enough to walk without freezing my ass off or jog without jarring my joints. I should have it on Monday or Tuesday. On cold mornings or evenings I can get my miles in without having to worry about the elements or another slip and fall. I can blast my tunes, watch some movies and just keep on going.
On another note, during my 10m yesterday, I didn't run as much as I would've liked. I only got in about 2 miles before I changed it to a run/walk and then a walk at the end. I can't compare the time to anything because my pace was clearly erratic, but it is definitely something I need to work on. Something that I hope the manual TM will give me some assistance with.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Run Review: Whooping Crane Strut
Today, I ran a local 10k known as the Whooping Crane Strut. The run is an annual affair held in the Rockport Beach Park. The scenery was similar to the Surfside atmosphere, and the weather was just as windy if not windier. The temperature was mild and perfect for running. Lots of clouds to obscure direct sunlight was nice too. The course was entirely pavement. There was a 2 mile walking course, and a 5k that split off from the 10k. Josh and Mom walked the 2m.
Pre-Race
We arrived at the Beach Park at 7 am to pick up our registration packets. For $20, your registration gets you a t-shirt and a cardboard coaster. (I’m actually still in awe of the Surfside goodie bags, by the way!) We walked around a bit, stretched, I charged up my iPod in the car, and we drank some coffee and water.
The Run
For the run itself, they had us line up with the runners in the front, walkers in the back. I put myself in the middle of the runners pack. Most of the first 4 miles of the 10k were facing the wind, and this made the run pretty tough. I was wearing a cap (lesson learned from Surfside) but the wind was so strong, I had to run with one hand up holding the hat a good portion of the first 4 miles. The first two miles felt alright, but I had to make a conscious effort to keep up a good pace. Miles three and four were tougher. By that point, my pace was starting to wear me out a bit, and I was really sweating. My mind started playing psychological tricks on me telling me to slow down or walk. Another part of me was complaining about how long the course felt, even though this 10k is considerably less than the 26m of a couple weeks ago. I fought a bit of mental battle today to keep on going, and a physical battle since I was running at a slightly faster pace than usual. Miles five and six were much easier. I had hit my stride at the mile 4 turnaround. The wind was with me due to a turnaround as well. Some nice volunteers at the turnaround cheered me on, and really lifted my mood. I made sure to cheer on the other runners afterward to pay that forward.
The last half mile....... I should begin with a little back history that I have a strange little irk about people who run behind you an entire course and then sprint past you at the finish line. I always try to run at the same pace, or just try to compete with myself without regard for those around me. I don’t know what it was about today, but it felt like the day that I wouldn’t let that happen. Don’t ask me why. I don’t know. So, with half a mile to go, I thought, I can’t let someone who is right behind me beat me, I need to sprint like mad to the finish line. So I did. And immediately I knew it was a bad idea. My heartrate skyrocketed, my stomach was gurgling with water from the last hydration station. But I had already gained momentum and committed to this. By the time I hit the finish line with Josh and his mom and dad cheering, I was dry heaving.... (I’m a real class act, I know) and I basically dry-heaved at sprint speed over the finish line. How raunchy would that have been if I barfed across the finish line? Eww. Anyways, that did not happen. And I learned my lesson. I need to run for me. I need to run at my own pace. I also learned that I can probably push myself harder than I have been.... but I should do it during training. Rather than gargling my heart and my breakfast at the end of a run.
Overall, the race was a lovely course, with friendly runners and good organization. I had an excellent time, and I would definitely like to do this run again in the future.
Gear
I didn’t get around to trying out my new running shoes last week, so I ran in my old ones. Even as I ran, I could tell they were not as supportive as they needed to be. I’ll be swapping out for the new shoes the next time I run. Also, I used my new wicker socks and they were quite good. I did get one blister, but that may have been due to the shoes rather than the socks.
Lessons Learned
- Run for ME. At my own pace.
- Charge iPod before race. I checked my iPod an hour before the run and it said there was 1/3 battery left. Somehow within a matter of seconds, the battery went in the red. Luckily this time I was able to run to the car to charge, but better not to risk it.
- Make sure to break in some new shoes before a race.
It was a sprint, not a marathon
Today I ran the Whooping Crane Strut in Rockport. The good news is that I may have made a new personal best for a 10k distance. The bad news is I really pushed it hard in the last half mile and almost threw up across the finish line. It could have been a bad situation, but I managed to keep it together. More details soon. I need to head back to the park to see our official times.
Be back later....
Friday, March 11, 2011
More Jillian . . .
Tonight I decided to do BFBM because I needed something that was going to be soft on my knees. My left knee was a little tweaky today, nothing I'm not used to, but I wanted to play it safe and I knew this one wasn't too terribly bad when it came to knees (sure there's a TON of jumping, but that is easy enough to do without causing knee heartache).
I'm surprised at how well I did this time around compared to the last time I did this workout. I guess I must be doing something right :-) But I remain as flexible as a piece of steel. It's funny, when the warm up started and she did the toe touches, um, yeah, that was knee touches and not a centimeter lower. I really need to work on my flexibility. I mean, I know that I have a gut in the way of doing a lot of those moves, but the inability of my hamstrings to let go is quite impressive. I don't think I've ever been this tight.
The only moves that gave me trouble this time were the burpees (come on, my gut is in the way and my legs aren't flexible enough for me to just put my hands on the floor and jump back like that ... it's a PROCESS), the mountain climbers (the same reason, my thighs can't get forward quite enough because of the impediment called my gut) and the oblique twists (ditto on the above). I do have to say though, this time around I actually was able to do the oblique twists, just not as bendy as Jillian would've liked. I know that my upper body is getting stronger because these plank moves aren't killing me as much as they were when we first started doing this. YAY!!! It means, WE ARE DOING SOMETHING RIGHT!!!
I'm surprised at how well I did this time around compared to the last time I did this workout. I guess I must be doing something right :-) But I remain as flexible as a piece of steel. It's funny, when the warm up started and she did the toe touches, um, yeah, that was knee touches and not a centimeter lower. I really need to work on my flexibility. I mean, I know that I have a gut in the way of doing a lot of those moves, but the inability of my hamstrings to let go is quite impressive. I don't think I've ever been this tight.
The only moves that gave me trouble this time were the burpees (come on, my gut is in the way and my legs aren't flexible enough for me to just put my hands on the floor and jump back like that ... it's a PROCESS), the mountain climbers (the same reason, my thighs can't get forward quite enough because of the impediment called my gut) and the oblique twists (ditto on the above). I do have to say though, this time around I actually was able to do the oblique twists, just not as bendy as Jillian would've liked. I know that my upper body is getting stronger because these plank moves aren't killing me as much as they were when we first started doing this. YAY!!! It means, WE ARE DOING SOMETHING RIGHT!!!
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Another 10 Minute Blaster
So tonight, even though my Kathy Smith aerobox and kickbox combo dvd showed up, I said that I was going to try the 10 Minute Solution Kickbox Bootcamp DVD. Wow, this one was actually a LOT of fun. The fitness guru for this dvd is Keli Roberts, an Aussie by the sound of her accent (I haven't checked her out yet), and she is a lot of fun to follow. She is also totally ripped, but not just her upper body, she is like body builder material.
So, this DVD was broken down into 5 segments. First was the beginning segment. Second was the buns and thighs. Third was the arms and shoulders. Fourth was fat blasting. Fifth and last was the washboard abs.
The first through third segments are the ones I did today. I saw a brief preview of the abs one, and I can tell you I am so not ready for those gumby moves. Jillian will have to do for the ab workouts until I am a bit more limber.
The first segment was fun. It ran through a series of kicks and punches just to get you used to the movements and the structure of the movement. Good way to start out. The first ten minutes flew by.
The second segment was all kicks. Rather fun and it also flew by.
The third segment was all arms, and while I know I'll be feeling it later, I didn't get the feeling that it was too hard at all. I felt like I kind of breezed through it - so perhaps it is time to get a heavier set of hand weights?
I know one thing for certain, my legs were still sore and feeling it from the first 10 minute solution day and Jillian, so I know they are going to be feeling it tomorrow. I need to do some extra stretching tonight so that I'm able to get out of bed tomorrow morning.
I'm actually having fun this time around. Mixing it up is good :-)
Oh, on other news, my hand held water bottle showed up today along with my 4 pack waist pack. I got these for 1 - shorter runs (hand held) and 2 - for longer runs (4 pack). The other waist pack I have only holds one bottle, so I wanted to give another one a shot . . . and considering how many folks I saw at the race with these I figured it was a good investment.
Now the only thing I'm waiting on are my shin/calf compression sleeves. Then I will be complete !!!
So, this DVD was broken down into 5 segments. First was the beginning segment. Second was the buns and thighs. Third was the arms and shoulders. Fourth was fat blasting. Fifth and last was the washboard abs.
The first through third segments are the ones I did today. I saw a brief preview of the abs one, and I can tell you I am so not ready for those gumby moves. Jillian will have to do for the ab workouts until I am a bit more limber.
The first segment was fun. It ran through a series of kicks and punches just to get you used to the movements and the structure of the movement. Good way to start out. The first ten minutes flew by.
The second segment was all kicks. Rather fun and it also flew by.
The third segment was all arms, and while I know I'll be feeling it later, I didn't get the feeling that it was too hard at all. I felt like I kind of breezed through it - so perhaps it is time to get a heavier set of hand weights?
I know one thing for certain, my legs were still sore and feeling it from the first 10 minute solution day and Jillian, so I know they are going to be feeling it tomorrow. I need to do some extra stretching tonight so that I'm able to get out of bed tomorrow morning.
I'm actually having fun this time around. Mixing it up is good :-)
Oh, on other news, my hand held water bottle showed up today along with my 4 pack waist pack. I got these for 1 - shorter runs (hand held) and 2 - for longer runs (4 pack). The other waist pack I have only holds one bottle, so I wanted to give another one a shot . . . and considering how many folks I saw at the race with these I figured it was a good investment.
Now the only thing I'm waiting on are my shin/calf compression sleeves. Then I will be complete !!!
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Needed a Baseline
So, when I woke up this morning I was exceptionally sore - particularly in my hamis and calves. I thought back to the moves from the 10 Minute solution and really couldn't pinpoint what required that much work, so I decided I needed to run a baseline today to see if it was me being out of it or if that 30 minutes yesterday was really just a lot tougher than I've been used to.
Guess who I turned to for my baseline - you got it. You can always count on Jillian. So, I did Level 1 of the 3DS to see if I was just that out of it, and I chose this workout because it's something we've done extensively and I know how I felt when we first started out and at the end of the second 30 days. It turns out it isn't me - the 30 minutes yesterday was just harder than I'm used to.
So, it looks like the 10 Min. Sol. is actually a good routine to add into the mix. It worked out muscles that normally don't see the time of day (btw, that instructor is totally ripped in her shoulders and chest - crazy ripped). I figured this was the case as I was able to make it through level 1 maintaining a decent HR (yeah I pulled out the HRM to make sure I was kicking my own ass) and finished with just the Anita modifications. Given this and my baseline from the first time we went through the 3DS, I know I didn't lapse all that much from my slacking off.
If you have a chance, this is just another reason to give 10 Min. Sol. a shot. I think tomorrow I'll try the kickboxing DVD from 10 Min. Sol. and see how that goes. My Kathy Smith stuff should be here by Friday at the latest.
Guess who I turned to for my baseline - you got it. You can always count on Jillian. So, I did Level 1 of the 3DS to see if I was just that out of it, and I chose this workout because it's something we've done extensively and I know how I felt when we first started out and at the end of the second 30 days. It turns out it isn't me - the 30 minutes yesterday was just harder than I'm used to.
So, it looks like the 10 Min. Sol. is actually a good routine to add into the mix. It worked out muscles that normally don't see the time of day (btw, that instructor is totally ripped in her shoulders and chest - crazy ripped). I figured this was the case as I was able to make it through level 1 maintaining a decent HR (yeah I pulled out the HRM to make sure I was kicking my own ass) and finished with just the Anita modifications. Given this and my baseline from the first time we went through the 3DS, I know I didn't lapse all that much from my slacking off.
If you have a chance, this is just another reason to give 10 Min. Sol. a shot. I think tomorrow I'll try the kickboxing DVD from 10 Min. Sol. and see how that goes. My Kathy Smith stuff should be here by Friday at the latest.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Tried something new . . .
Ok, so I gave 10 Minute Solution 5 Day Get Fit Mix a try and here's the jist of the DVD. The workouts are broken down into 10 minute sessions. Fat Blasting Intervals. Belly Fat Burner. Lean Body Sculpt. Cardio Kickboxing. Power Yoga.
Fat Blasting Intervals - this is similar to the first 5 minutes of Jillian's 3DS where you combine cardio with weights for 10 minutes. She breaks them down into 5 intervals of 2 minutes a piece. It was rather enjoyable I must say. I was able to keep up with her the entire time.
Belly Fat Burner - um, ok so only Gumby would be able to do this workout. She combines a lot of yogaesque moves into the ab routines, and while they appear to be extremely effective, I am just not flexible enough to do about 4 minutes worth of the 10. Oh, btw, this totally kicks Jillian's ass. Talk about hard core fricking moves. If I get up the courage to try this one again I will do a play by play. The first several minutes are fun - they are standing ab moves with weights (so I used my kettlebell) and it was effective and a lot of fun. Then the routine moves to the mat and lets just say my body is not mat friendly when it comes to these kinds of moves. Here's an example - plank pose and then you move your right ankle around your right hand, hold and then back to plank and then do the same on the left side. Like I said, Gumby.
Lean Body Sculpt - I did not do this one today but it is basically pilates from what I gather. Simple moves intended to sculpt lean muscles.
Cardio Kickboxing - OOOH, this was my favorite. I love kickboxing, don't know what it is, but no matter how rough and tumble it gets I find it enjoyable ... maybe it's the constant motion?? I am not flexible enough to do the proper crescent kicks, but limiting the move to my knee works just fine (that is her modification). I don't know which is better - her's or Jillian's when it comes to kickboxing. Kathy Smith used to have a rather awesome aeroboxing and kicboxing VHS workout -- I LOVED those workouts and lost a ton of weight with them too. It really is too bad that the Aerobox never made it to DVD and the Kickboxing one is discontinued, so it's only available by greedy amazon sellers (can you believe the price tag??).
Power Yoga - I didn't have the courage to even attempt this one after doing the ab routine.
Overall impression of this DVD in the 10 minute series - this woman rocks. I really enjoyed working with her and she is a combination between Denise Austin and Jillian Michaels. My heart rate was up in the routines I tried, with the exception of my gaping mouth while watching the gumby routine, and I never felt like I wasn't able to continue. I think my HR got just as high as it did during 3DS (this is something I will have to check next time), but I think this one will definitely stay in the rotation. I recommend giving this one a try - especially if you want to really get an ab workout in that will leave you aching for days to come.
I think I am going to rotate through my workout DVDs and Jillian so that I don't hit a stalemate like I did in November and January.
Fat Blasting Intervals - this is similar to the first 5 minutes of Jillian's 3DS where you combine cardio with weights for 10 minutes. She breaks them down into 5 intervals of 2 minutes a piece. It was rather enjoyable I must say. I was able to keep up with her the entire time.
Belly Fat Burner - um, ok so only Gumby would be able to do this workout. She combines a lot of yogaesque moves into the ab routines, and while they appear to be extremely effective, I am just not flexible enough to do about 4 minutes worth of the 10. Oh, btw, this totally kicks Jillian's ass. Talk about hard core fricking moves. If I get up the courage to try this one again I will do a play by play. The first several minutes are fun - they are standing ab moves with weights (so I used my kettlebell) and it was effective and a lot of fun. Then the routine moves to the mat and lets just say my body is not mat friendly when it comes to these kinds of moves. Here's an example - plank pose and then you move your right ankle around your right hand, hold and then back to plank and then do the same on the left side. Like I said, Gumby.
Lean Body Sculpt - I did not do this one today but it is basically pilates from what I gather. Simple moves intended to sculpt lean muscles.
Cardio Kickboxing - OOOH, this was my favorite. I love kickboxing, don't know what it is, but no matter how rough and tumble it gets I find it enjoyable ... maybe it's the constant motion?? I am not flexible enough to do the proper crescent kicks, but limiting the move to my knee works just fine (that is her modification). I don't know which is better - her's or Jillian's when it comes to kickboxing. Kathy Smith used to have a rather awesome aeroboxing and kicboxing VHS workout -- I LOVED those workouts and lost a ton of weight with them too. It really is too bad that the Aerobox never made it to DVD and the Kickboxing one is discontinued, so it's only available by greedy amazon sellers (can you believe the price tag??).
Power Yoga - I didn't have the courage to even attempt this one after doing the ab routine.
Overall impression of this DVD in the 10 minute series - this woman rocks. I really enjoyed working with her and she is a combination between Denise Austin and Jillian Michaels. My heart rate was up in the routines I tried, with the exception of my gaping mouth while watching the gumby routine, and I never felt like I wasn't able to continue. I think my HR got just as high as it did during 3DS (this is something I will have to check next time), but I think this one will definitely stay in the rotation. I recommend giving this one a try - especially if you want to really get an ab workout in that will leave you aching for days to come.
I think I am going to rotate through my workout DVDs and Jillian so that I don't hit a stalemate like I did in November and January.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Benefits of Running
I read this article this morning, and thought it was a nice summary of why running is so great: http://www.vanderbilt.edu/ans/psychology/health_psychology/running.html
New Shoes
After the marathon last weekend, Traci and I hooked ourselves up with new runners. I chose a pair of Nike Moto 6s, which were actually the model before my Bowerman Moto 7s that I ran the marathon in. After walking around the house a bit in the new Moto 6s, I decided that they were not to my liking. This past week, I've been using my old Moto 7s and it reminded me how wonderful it is to have super light running shoes. I wanted to see if I could swap out the Moto 6s for something even lighter.
When I went back to the Nike store today, they had a different selection than the last time we were in. The Nike Zoom Skylon 11 caught my attention. I tried them on and was immediately impressed at how cushy, but light they were. I also liked that they sit low on the ankle. I should mention that I also went to Academy and tried on about 30 other pairs of shoes from other manufacturers. The whole process underscored for me just how personal it is to find the perfect shoe for you. Different people want different things. I learned through the process what I want, and the Skylon fit the bill perfectly. I also learned that I need to up-size by one full shoe size to allow for socks and expansion. Now for a test run tomorrow!
When I went back to the Nike store today, they had a different selection than the last time we were in. The Nike Zoom Skylon 11 caught my attention. I tried them on and was immediately impressed at how cushy, but light they were. I also liked that they sit low on the ankle. I should mention that I also went to Academy and tried on about 30 other pairs of shoes from other manufacturers. The whole process underscored for me just how personal it is to find the perfect shoe for you. Different people want different things. I learned through the process what I want, and the Skylon fit the bill perfectly. I also learned that I need to up-size by one full shoe size to allow for socks and expansion. Now for a test run tomorrow!
New Steamers to try
So, I've gotten a little tired of the LC steamers and decided that I needed to try something new. I've found some new steamers - the Healthy Choice steamers - cheaper than LC and nice portion sizing. Good choices and yummy.
Another that I've found that really surprised me was Green Giant. Tonight for dinner I had the broccoli and rice with cheese sauce steamer and with a little mrs. dash it was delish. I recommend giving these a try - both are cheaper than the LC. I think the HC was about $1.89 and the Green Giant was around $1.45.
Another that I've found that really surprised me was Green Giant. Tonight for dinner I had the broccoli and rice with cheese sauce steamer and with a little mrs. dash it was delish. I recommend giving these a try - both are cheaper than the LC. I think the HC was about $1.89 and the Green Giant was around $1.45.
And the weather went to hell in a handbasket
So, I've been enjoying the wonderful sunshine and the nice warm days making my walks very enjoyable. Um, so the weather decided enough is enough and it snowed again today. Not a lot, but enough to make the mercury drop quite a bit from recent days.
I've been feeling good on my walks - my calf is feeling much better, my back is cooperating and all-in-all I feel pretty darn good. If we don't get too much snow, I'm going to track out a longer route on the cherry creek bike path ... no cars, no people and no rest stops for stoplights. Just what I need.
I've been feeling good on my walks - my calf is feeling much better, my back is cooperating and all-in-all I feel pretty darn good. If we don't get too much snow, I'm going to track out a longer route on the cherry creek bike path ... no cars, no people and no rest stops for stoplights. Just what I need.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
A Little Walking, A Little Running
In an effort to get my feet back in motion, I hit the road today with hopes of getting in 6 miles. This did not happen. I'm not sure what I thought would happen in the week after the marathon... that anything less than 26 miles would be a breeze? That I'd just fly? In any case, my legs still feel pretty weak compared to pre-marathon. I also got stomach cramps today, for the first time in recent memory. I ended up running and then walking 4 miles. I went on WalkJogRun just now and mapped out a nice route just over 6 miles as a regular running route for the next little while. I'll keep you posted on how that goes.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
3 “Easy” Miles
Yesterday, I went for a run as part of a little mini-plan to prepare for the 10k next weekend. (By the way, next Saturday’s run is the Whooping Crane Strut.) On schedule for yesterday was 3 “easy” miles - that’s what the plan said exactly. This is the first run I’ve done since the marathon. I was hoping that it would truly feel easy, but it did not. My hips felt like they were creaking with every step, and my leg muscles felt extraordinarily week. My joints, babied by the sand at Surfside, felt jarred by every step of running on pavement. Yesterday’s run did not turn out to be easy; it did take consistent effort. Maybe today will be easier.
In better news I finally got a sports watch. It’s a Timex that also does intervals. It’s been so long since I had a digital watch, that I’m a little bit thrilled at all the great things it does. I mean, these aren’t “new” things... but they’re new to me, or at least renewed to me. I’ll try some interval running next week and let you know how it goes.
Traci, I also tried those wicker socks we picked up at the New Balance store, and they’re awesome! Thanks for that recommendation.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Ok, so maybe I overdid the Wii fun
So yesterday and today my right arm, shoulder and entire side feel like they've been run through ringer. I had an awesome time playing wii, but it would seem that much play time has a bit of consequence ... sore baby sore.
I played again today, but not as rough and tumble as I did the other day. Fun stuff!!
I played again today, but not as rough and tumble as I did the other day. Fun stuff!!
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Hot Yoga
I still can't get over how much I love hot yoga... it's just so comforting to be in such a warm humid room... it's like being back in the womb. Actually, the last yoga class I went to, I fell asleep on my mat after the class and no one woke me up!! Granted, the heat does make the workout harder, but at the same time, it's more gratifying because you're sweating so much you really feel like you're burning mondo calories, when if fact, you're just kind of moving here and there.
I went to a later class than usual today, and ended up with a different instructor, whom I really really liked. Also, the studio I got uses a specific series of poses, and this instructor mixed them up a bit, which I also liked. All in all, it was nice to do a hot yoga class since it's been so long.
I went to a later class than usual today, and ended up with a different instructor, whom I really really liked. Also, the studio I got uses a specific series of poses, and this instructor mixed them up a bit, which I also liked. All in all, it was nice to do a hot yoga class since it's been so long.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Enjoying the Sunshine
So, today is another lovely day outside and I am just enjoying the sunshine. I don't know the whole work situation right now, so today was another not going in day ... not exactly what I would prefer, but no work means no wasting gas to drive down there for no reason.
I got in some wii action today, I played wii sports for about 45 minutes (yeah, I know how many times can you play tennis, right?) and then played several rounds of punch-out (and that works your upper body quite a bit) before doing my cardio on wii. It was an enjoyable way to spend the morning and now I'm off to get in a walk and try to work the kink out of this calf. I have a feeling there is a tear involved and it wasn't just a charlie horse. Oh well, it will heal on its own just like everything else :-) I'm just letting it work itself out.
I got in some wii action today, I played wii sports for about 45 minutes (yeah, I know how many times can you play tennis, right?) and then played several rounds of punch-out (and that works your upper body quite a bit) before doing my cardio on wii. It was an enjoyable way to spend the morning and now I'm off to get in a walk and try to work the kink out of this calf. I have a feeling there is a tear involved and it wasn't just a charlie horse. Oh well, it will heal on its own just like everything else :-) I'm just letting it work itself out.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Kettlebell Action
Today I did a little bit of stationary bike, which I really enjoyed. I parked myself in front of the tv, picked a course and went at it. It felt good to pump up the heart rate a bit, and work up some heat. I even left the door open because it's gotten a bit cooler out lately, and within minutes my goosebumps were gone. I also tried a kettlebell today for the first time. I got a 10-lber and used it with the March issue of Fitness magazine's Body Makeover moves. The moves are meant to be done with a 6-lb medicine ball, so the 10-lb kettlebell was a challenge, especially for someone with little upper body strength like myself.
Overall, the workout felt great and worked out the kinks in my body and mind that today had left behind.
Overall, the workout felt great and worked out the kinks in my body and mind that today had left behind.
Good Colorado Race
Well I found a race in Colorado that had liberal timing and was not one that went through the mountains (a hard feat I am finding).
http://www.thecoloradomarathon.com/registration.html
This one is a bit earlier than anticipated, but it would be good for another half ... and it's at the beginning of May.
I was also looking at Cleveland (yeah, I know) but the run is fairly flat and has an 8 hour limit, which is ideal for me (at least right now).
October runs are still there :-) These are just a little closer - thoughts?
http://www.thecoloradomarathon.com/registration.html
This one is a bit earlier than anticipated, but it would be good for another half ... and it's at the beginning of May.
I was also looking at Cleveland (yeah, I know) but the run is fairly flat and has an 8 hour limit, which is ideal for me (at least right now).
October runs are still there :-) These are just a little closer - thoughts?
Recovery
Well, yesterday I went through some of my books about post-race recovery and found that I was doing things right in stretching and making sure I was drinking and eating enough.
I do have to say though, my calf is still putting up one hell of a fight. I've been stretching and stretching and stretching it and it still wants to tighten up. Last night I went for a short stroll in an attempt to loosen it up, and it worked until I got back home. Rubbing it seemed to help, so I knocked off early (like really early) and just slept.
Today I woke up feeling pretty good, the calf was feeling better, rubbed it down again and really worked the knots that seemed to take up residence. My back and right side of my body are feeling really good and I am smiling on the inside. I did some of my wii fit yoga exercises to loosen up some more because it helps you do the pose correctly, and that is what I needed.
I am not sure what I'm going to do tonight, but the weather is still really nice so if my calf is feeling alright, I will probably go for another short walk.
I haven't had the "don't know what to do with myself" moment but I think that's because I've already shifted gears into what should we do next.
I do have to say though, my calf is still putting up one hell of a fight. I've been stretching and stretching and stretching it and it still wants to tighten up. Last night I went for a short stroll in an attempt to loosen it up, and it worked until I got back home. Rubbing it seemed to help, so I knocked off early (like really early) and just slept.
Today I woke up feeling pretty good, the calf was feeling better, rubbed it down again and really worked the knots that seemed to take up residence. My back and right side of my body are feeling really good and I am smiling on the inside. I did some of my wii fit yoga exercises to loosen up some more because it helps you do the pose correctly, and that is what I needed.
I am not sure what I'm going to do tonight, but the weather is still really nice so if my calf is feeling alright, I will probably go for another short walk.
I haven't had the "don't know what to do with myself" moment but I think that's because I've already shifted gears into what should we do next.
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