For my 2 mile run today, I decided to do something other than run a straight 1% incline. I set the treadmill to a random program. It ended up to be more of a tall hill than random. It did make things more interesting, though. It started out flat, which is odd since I'm used to 1%. But then it popped up to 3% and eventually got to 6.5% about half way through the run. I ran at that incline for a while, but had to reduce speed and eventually knocked the incline down some before the treadmill was ready.
Interestingly enough, the treadmill said I burned 301 calories and SportsTracks says 305. My HR maxed out at about 180bpm. I was pouring sweat!
I think I'll try a program again. Maybe intervals.
I've been thinking about doing outside morning runs again. However, this morning it was raining. 34F rain is not my idea of an enjoyable run.
Showing posts with label treadmill. Show all posts
Showing posts with label treadmill. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Hard run
Being so sore from yesterday's lifting, I was starting to talk myself out of getting up early today. But, I remembered my training schedule and got up. I knew it wouldn't be a fantastic run, but it was still harder than I thought it would be. It didn't help that nature called after a quarter mile. At least I was on the treadmill and not out in the neighborhood. In the end, I got in the two miles and can check the run off on my schedule.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Dreaming of running
This morning, when the alarm went off at 4:10, I decided that I could sleep longer and still get in my planned 2 miles. So, I set another alarm for 4:45. As I went back to sleep, I was trying to talk myself out of getting up early to work out. My muscles were pretty sore from yesterday's lifting session. But, as I slept, I dreamed I was getting ready to go running. I don't think I ever made it. I was looking for something I felt I needed. When I woke up, I realized I needed to get up and go! And I did!
Today's run was a treadmill run of 2 miles. Nothing special. The fan was off when I got there, so I moved it to point directly at me from the side and turned it on full speed. Nice. It was -4.5F outside when I left home. There seems to be less ice outside, but in that cold there was no way I was going out!
I'm going to print out another SmartCoach schedule. This time I really need to hold to it if I am going to run the 20k without increasing my distance too much.
Today's run was a treadmill run of 2 miles. Nothing special. The fan was off when I got there, so I moved it to point directly at me from the side and turned it on full speed. Nice. It was -4.5F outside when I left home. There seems to be less ice outside, but in that cold there was no way I was going out!
I'm going to print out another SmartCoach schedule. This time I really need to hold to it if I am going to run the 20k without increasing my distance too much.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Only 2 miles?
So, the ice on the sidewalks is sticking around forever, it seems. After doing nothing at all this weekend, I managed to drag myself to the gym and onto a treadmill. I walked for 0.5 miles, ran 2.0 miles at 12min/mile, and walked 0.5 miles. It seemed to take forever. But, I did it and I'm glad.
They are calling for yet another round of snow today, although only an inch or two. On the rolling thingy at the bottom of the screen of the local news this morning they said we hit a record 55 days straight with at least 5 inches of snow on the ground. Usually, we get some freeze/thaw cycles that cut down the snow pack. I'm looking forward to the thaw, even if it does mean lots of puddles and probably flooding.
Today's music selection was Podrunner's Pocket Apocalypse at 151 bpm.
They are calling for yet another round of snow today, although only an inch or two. On the rolling thingy at the bottom of the screen of the local news this morning they said we hit a record 55 days straight with at least 5 inches of snow on the ground. Usually, we get some freeze/thaw cycles that cut down the snow pack. I'm looking forward to the thaw, even if it does mean lots of puddles and probably flooding.
Today's music selection was Podrunner's Pocket Apocalypse at 151 bpm.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
AMRAP done, sub 10 minute mile!
Today started out with a mile, which I ran in 9:55! Of course, now that I sit down and type it out, I realize I forgot to dial in my 1% incline. Doh! That kind of takes some of the excitement out of it. This time, I started at 5.7mph and after about every 0.1 mile, I increased the speed 0.1mph. So, in the end I was running at 6.6 or 6.7 mph, which is pretty darn fast for me.
I did the AMRAP B workout today. I forgot my log at home, I had to wing it. I'm glad AMRAP is done. I did get sore muscles from it, but I don't feel like I did as much. Strange. I don't feel as exercised.
I will restrain myself and not complain about the person who left 45# weights on the bar today. Oops, I guess I just did. They have a sign up requesting that you unload the bar when done. I thought about making my own and taping it to the squat rack rather than on the wall.
I want to get in a 3 mile run tomorrow. I hope it's a tad warmer. It was super windy and just above freezing this morning. Not exactly what I want to run in. Unless it's raining, I'm going to have to force myself out the door for a run, since I want a little recovery time before Saturday.
This morning, as I got on the treadmill, my mind started playing tricks with me and was telling my that this mile was going to be hard (it wasn't, probably the lack of incline helped with that) and that I wouldn't be able to make it through the 5k this weekend. Darn brain! I know it's wrong, but I thought I had tamed that mental crap more.
I'm even more sure that my HRM transmitter is on the way out. My max heart rate was 205 today, which I know isn't true. After that, it sank to ~90bpm, which was also not true. I'm going to try running without it a bit, I think. Maybe I can get by without one for a while. Save money... for the Garmin 305... LOL!
I did the AMRAP B workout today. I forgot my log at home, I had to wing it. I'm glad AMRAP is done. I did get sore muscles from it, but I don't feel like I did as much. Strange. I don't feel as exercised.
I will restrain myself and not complain about the person who left 45# weights on the bar today. Oops, I guess I just did. They have a sign up requesting that you unload the bar when done. I thought about making my own and taping it to the squat rack rather than on the wall.
I want to get in a 3 mile run tomorrow. I hope it's a tad warmer. It was super windy and just above freezing this morning. Not exactly what I want to run in. Unless it's raining, I'm going to have to force myself out the door for a run, since I want a little recovery time before Saturday.
This morning, as I got on the treadmill, my mind started playing tricks with me and was telling my that this mile was going to be hard (it wasn't, probably the lack of incline helped with that) and that I wouldn't be able to make it through the 5k this weekend. Darn brain! I know it's wrong, but I thought I had tamed that mental crap more.
I'm even more sure that my HRM transmitter is on the way out. My max heart rate was 205 today, which I know isn't true. After that, it sank to ~90bpm, which was also not true. I'm going to try running without it a bit, I think. Maybe I can get by without one for a while. Save money... for the Garmin 305... LOL!
Monday, February 2, 2009
Back on the treadmill
Last night I got back on the treadmill after three weeks rest. My knee is still not 100% better, though. I wasn't feeling it much from day to day, though. Last week, I did feel a sharp pain, so I knew it wasn't over. I was standing up after sitting on the floor and angled it just right. Most of the time, it's been ok, though. I'll be in the water twice per week starting tomorrow, however I will be walking rather than swimming. Hopefully that doesn't aggravate it. (I will be taking my daughter to "swimming" lessons.)
The run last night went well. I did 2 miles at 5.0-5.2 miles per hour. After that, I did Stage 1 workout A3 of the New Rules of Lifting for Women. That went very well. I can definitely see that using the heavy weights and short rests helps get my heart rate up. I was up in the 150's a few times when it was intense. I had to lengthen a couple rests a bit to bring my heart rate back down.
This time I did the step-ups on a weight bench. My footing wasn't as firm due to the padding, but that just increased the intensity a bit. It was a much better height than that little 8 inch box I had used before. This time, using 10lb bells in each hand had me at my limit, while before 25lb bells only maxed out my hand strength!
For the squats, I was able to get a lot lower, but still not quite as low as I wanted. I realized that if I slant my toes out slightly rather than having my feet be parallel, I could squat a lot lower.
For the cable row, this time there was a bench already situated under the cable machine, so I used that. Much nicer than sitting on the floor!
I did the push-ups at 45degrees using the Smith machine. They went pretty well and had me at my limit by the time I reached 12 reps, so I think for now, that is the right setting. When the reps are lowered, I guess I can lower the Smith bar accordingly. Maybe to 30degrees.
The prone jackknives are still kicking my butt, but I got through them ok. The stability ball really kicks that one up several notches!
I iced my knee when I went to bed and I'm wearing a compression brace today. If this soreness comes back like it was and doesn't go away, I'm going to have to go to the doctor. :(
Last night I forgot my water bottle. Very bad. The water at the gym is HORRIBLE! It is very bad. They must not be on city water, even though they are really close to town. I hope they get added some time, because that is just soooo nasty. The toilets and water fountain are stained from the water and the place isn't that old. It leaves a icky, long lasting aftertaste. They do sell bottled water there. I will be tempted to buy one next time I forget my own water.
The run last night went well. I did 2 miles at 5.0-5.2 miles per hour. After that, I did Stage 1 workout A3 of the New Rules of Lifting for Women. That went very well. I can definitely see that using the heavy weights and short rests helps get my heart rate up. I was up in the 150's a few times when it was intense. I had to lengthen a couple rests a bit to bring my heart rate back down.
This time I did the step-ups on a weight bench. My footing wasn't as firm due to the padding, but that just increased the intensity a bit. It was a much better height than that little 8 inch box I had used before. This time, using 10lb bells in each hand had me at my limit, while before 25lb bells only maxed out my hand strength!
For the squats, I was able to get a lot lower, but still not quite as low as I wanted. I realized that if I slant my toes out slightly rather than having my feet be parallel, I could squat a lot lower.
For the cable row, this time there was a bench already situated under the cable machine, so I used that. Much nicer than sitting on the floor!
I did the push-ups at 45degrees using the Smith machine. They went pretty well and had me at my limit by the time I reached 12 reps, so I think for now, that is the right setting. When the reps are lowered, I guess I can lower the Smith bar accordingly. Maybe to 30degrees.
The prone jackknives are still kicking my butt, but I got through them ok. The stability ball really kicks that one up several notches!
I iced my knee when I went to bed and I'm wearing a compression brace today. If this soreness comes back like it was and doesn't go away, I'm going to have to go to the doctor. :(
Last night I forgot my water bottle. Very bad. The water at the gym is HORRIBLE! It is very bad. They must not be on city water, even though they are really close to town. I hope they get added some time, because that is just soooo nasty. The toilets and water fountain are stained from the water and the place isn't that old. It leaves a icky, long lasting aftertaste. They do sell bottled water there. I will be tempted to buy one next time I forget my own water.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Started a lifting program, sore knee
Now, in addition to running, I'll be doing a lifting program from the book New Rules of Lifting for Women. I did the first workout today. I messed it up a little bit by not alternating one of the sets. I also didn't use as heavy of weights for the squats as I could have. But, it was a new exercise, so I do still need to get used to it. The 30 degree pushups where hard. I had to decrease the reps. My gym didn't have a good step for the step ups and my hands could barely hold the 25# dumbbells through 30 total reps. Afterwards, I didn't feel like I worked that hard, but I will build up over time. It's a six month program, so I will be at it for a while!
Before the weights, I did an interval session on the treadmill. This was the first time I had really done such a thing. I walked a bit then did (approximately) 1 minutes at 6.5mpg alternating with 2 minutes 5-5.5mph all with a 1% incline. The 6.5mph felt like an end sprint to me. However the 5.5mph seemed a lot slower after doing the 6.5mph. I did this for almost 15 minutes and ran 1.3 miles. Not a long distance, but I do see how doing intervals once a week or so can improve your speed.
After the weights, I stretched using the Precor stretch trainer.
For the past few days, I could feel a mild soreness around my knee. I didn't feel it when walking normally, but any slight turn or twist and I could feel it. After my workout today, it's definitely more sore. I'm not sure why. I haven't been running much this past week. I don't know that I did any one thing to make this hurt. It's a mystery! I have it wrapped and I think I'll put a hot pack on it for a while.
I couldn't find my heart rate monitor or my headphones today. Luckily, I didn't need them as much. Of course, after my workout I found them right away, very near to where I was looking. argh.
Before the weights, I did an interval session on the treadmill. This was the first time I had really done such a thing. I walked a bit then did (approximately) 1 minutes at 6.5mpg alternating with 2 minutes 5-5.5mph all with a 1% incline. The 6.5mph felt like an end sprint to me. However the 5.5mph seemed a lot slower after doing the 6.5mph. I did this for almost 15 minutes and ran 1.3 miles. Not a long distance, but I do see how doing intervals once a week or so can improve your speed.
After the weights, I stretched using the Precor stretch trainer.
For the past few days, I could feel a mild soreness around my knee. I didn't feel it when walking normally, but any slight turn or twist and I could feel it. After my workout today, it's definitely more sore. I'm not sure why. I haven't been running much this past week. I don't know that I did any one thing to make this hurt. It's a mystery! I have it wrapped and I think I'll put a hot pack on it for a while.
I couldn't find my heart rate monitor or my headphones today. Luckily, I didn't need them as much. Of course, after my workout I found them right away, very near to where I was looking. argh.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Another good run after a break for sledding
I wanted to run on Thursday, but we went sledding instead. More fun, but not as good of a workout!
Today I managed 4 miles. I ran the first 3miles at 5.5 mph (with the exception of the first couple minutes at 5.2-5.3mph) then I ran another mile mostly at 5.0, but I kicked it up for the last little bit. I couldn't find anything particularly interesting on the TV, so I put in a 157bpm Podrunner called Native Son. The first minute or so it was hard to find the beat, but then it got better. A nice set of tribal beats. I "read" CNN on closed captioning while listening to the music. That was a nice combination. Unfortunately, around a half of a mile from my finish, my mp3 player ran out of juice. So, I plugged my phones into the treadmill. Not near as nice listening to people in suits yap. The reading of the captions takes more of my attention, which was nice.
Afterward, I did a full round of weights. I realized I was not doing much targeting for my shoulders, so next time I'm going to add a set or two. It already takes a decent amount of time to get through my standard set of lifts, so I don't want to add any more than is necessary. I am seeing some results from the lifting. I don't want to be a body builder, but strength training is so good for you, especially for women to protect from osteoporosis. I make sure I focus some on my back, too. I see too many people with back problems. NOT FUN. Also, I'm afraid I'm more likely to develop back problems due to my scoliosis.
It was/is -3F (-19.4C) with stong winds making the windchill around -25F (-31.7C). Brr! There is absolutely no way I'd be running outside in this. I may sound like a broken record, but I am so glad I joined a gym and gave in to the treadmill for the winter. It'll be nice to run outside again, though.
Today I managed 4 miles. I ran the first 3miles at 5.5 mph (with the exception of the first couple minutes at 5.2-5.3mph) then I ran another mile mostly at 5.0, but I kicked it up for the last little bit. I couldn't find anything particularly interesting on the TV, so I put in a 157bpm Podrunner called Native Son. The first minute or so it was hard to find the beat, but then it got better. A nice set of tribal beats. I "read" CNN on closed captioning while listening to the music. That was a nice combination. Unfortunately, around a half of a mile from my finish, my mp3 player ran out of juice. So, I plugged my phones into the treadmill. Not near as nice listening to people in suits yap. The reading of the captions takes more of my attention, which was nice.
Afterward, I did a full round of weights. I realized I was not doing much targeting for my shoulders, so next time I'm going to add a set or two. It already takes a decent amount of time to get through my standard set of lifts, so I don't want to add any more than is necessary. I am seeing some results from the lifting. I don't want to be a body builder, but strength training is so good for you, especially for women to protect from osteoporosis. I make sure I focus some on my back, too. I see too many people with back problems. NOT FUN. Also, I'm afraid I'm more likely to develop back problems due to my scoliosis.
It was/is -3F (-19.4C) with stong winds making the windchill around -25F (-31.7C). Brr! There is absolutely no way I'd be running outside in this. I may sound like a broken record, but I am so glad I joined a gym and gave in to the treadmill for the winter. It'll be nice to run outside again, though.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
A "wow" day!
My last run wasn't a "wow" day, but today was!
I set my speed at 5.4 mph and took off! In a little under an hour I ran 5.15 miles!! I felt like I could run even more, but then the treadmill started telling me to quit. (It only lets you run for an hour and I had walked 0.15 miles to warm up.)
I was wondering if I would be able to work up to a 10k (6.2 miles) next year and I think the answer is an unequivocal "yes!" It still probably won't be a fast 10k, but that's ok! I bet my 5k time will be a lot better in the spring, too.
Last 4th of July at the 4 on the 4th race, the thought of running 4 miles sounded crazy to me. Now I realize it would be no problem at all! Wow!
I followed that with a thorough stretch and a round of weights. I skipped the lunges today. I think I beat my legs and knees up enough for one night.
I set my speed at 5.4 mph and took off! In a little under an hour I ran 5.15 miles!! I felt like I could run even more, but then the treadmill started telling me to quit. (It only lets you run for an hour and I had walked 0.15 miles to warm up.)
I was wondering if I would be able to work up to a 10k (6.2 miles) next year and I think the answer is an unequivocal "yes!" It still probably won't be a fast 10k, but that's ok! I bet my 5k time will be a lot better in the spring, too.
Last 4th of July at the 4 on the 4th race, the thought of running 4 miles sounded crazy to me. Now I realize it would be no problem at all! Wow!
I followed that with a thorough stretch and a round of weights. I skipped the lunges today. I think I beat my legs and knees up enough for one night.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Thank you American Gladiators
Tonight, I hopped on the treadmill at 1% incline and 5-5.2 mph setting planning on a 3 mile run. HOWEVER, the American Gladiators championship from 1995-1996 was on ESPN Classic. So, I convinced myself to run until the end of the show and ended up at 4.2 miles running! Yahoo!
After the faster run yesterday, the 5mph did seem easier, unless I just had a good day. That's totally possible.
Afterward, I lifted. I'm getting stronger! I think I did an extra set of tricep kickbacks, so my triceps might be complaining tomorrow.
Anyway, I needed the workout. I have a big presentation tomorrow and I've been eating like crap, especially tonight. Ack. Points reset tomorrow. Thank heavens.
After the faster run yesterday, the 5mph did seem easier, unless I just had a good day. That's totally possible.
Afterward, I lifted. I'm getting stronger! I think I did an extra set of tricep kickbacks, so my triceps might be complaining tomorrow.
Anyway, I needed the workout. I have a big presentation tomorrow and I've been eating like crap, especially tonight. Ack. Points reset tomorrow. Thank heavens.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Fast and short
Today I decided to change things up and run faster, but shorter. So, I dialed in 5.5mph and 1% incline and ran for 2 miles. Towards the end my heart rate was getting up around 185+, so I knocked down the incline and reduced the speed to 5.3mph. Falling off the treadmill wouldn't have been a good idea. Afterward, I stretched and lifted weights.
I almost talked myself out of getting up early today. However, since I made hubby get up in the middle of the night to take care of our daughter, who was having problems sleeping, I figured I had to hold up my end of the deal and go work out. I'm glad because I feel great now!
During my run today, I listened to more of the 154bpm Podrunner podcast while I watched the local news. The music definitely carried me through this tough run! There was one song in there that had some words in it. I don't remember what was being said, but it motivated me to continue at a difficult spot!
I almost talked myself out of getting up early today. However, since I made hubby get up in the middle of the night to take care of our daughter, who was having problems sleeping, I figured I had to hold up my end of the deal and go work out. I'm glad because I feel great now!
During my run today, I listened to more of the 154bpm Podrunner podcast while I watched the local news. The music definitely carried me through this tough run! There was one song in there that had some words in it. I don't remember what was being said, but it motivated me to continue at a difficult spot!
Friday, December 5, 2008
Great workout today
I managed to get up early, run 3 miles on the treadmill and complete a nice circuit of free weights.
My pecs were still sore yesterday from Tuesday's workout. Today they were better, so I hit them again! We'll see if they act up tomorrow. I have a book from Shape that details a lot of different ways to lift for muscle toning. It's pretty good. I've done a decent amount of weights in the past, but it's nice to have ideas for different ways of targeting certain muscles. Of course, it has instructions as well as tips on good form and what not to do.
For my run, I decided to listen to a 154bpm Podrunner podcast and watch the news with closed captioning. It worked well. The speed of the podcast was right and it kept me moving at a constant stride.
It's funny how when there are other people on the treadmills next to me we seem to synch up with our pace. When nobody else is there running, I think it's nice to have the music to synch up to!
My pecs were still sore yesterday from Tuesday's workout. Today they were better, so I hit them again! We'll see if they act up tomorrow. I have a book from Shape that details a lot of different ways to lift for muscle toning. It's pretty good. I've done a decent amount of weights in the past, but it's nice to have ideas for different ways of targeting certain muscles. Of course, it has instructions as well as tips on good form and what not to do.
For my run, I decided to listen to a 154bpm Podrunner podcast and watch the news with closed captioning. It worked well. The speed of the podcast was right and it kept me moving at a constant stride.
It's funny how when there are other people on the treadmills next to me we seem to synch up with our pace. When nobody else is there running, I think it's nice to have the music to synch up to!
Monday, November 24, 2008
A week off
I didn't work out for a whole week since my husband was on a business trip. I could have worked out in the basement, but I didn't. I goofed off instead.
This morning, I got out and got to the gym. Ran on the treadmill. It was just ok. I didn't use an incline because I forgot. I went a tad faster than normal, which still isn't fast. Morning TV is boring, but I didn't have a magazine to bring with me. Maybe I'll listen to a fixed bpm podcast next time. The TV on the treadmill is just so novel right now, I don't think about it.
I also stretched and lifted weights. I tried the Smith machine today. A nice way to do weighted lunges.
This morning, I got out and got to the gym. Ran on the treadmill. It was just ok. I didn't use an incline because I forgot. I went a tad faster than normal, which still isn't fast. Morning TV is boring, but I didn't have a magazine to bring with me. Maybe I'll listen to a fixed bpm podcast next time. The TV on the treadmill is just so novel right now, I don't think about it.
I also stretched and lifted weights. I tried the Smith machine today. A nice way to do weighted lunges.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Maybe I need to drink more water
I ran at the gym today. It was a struggle this time to make it to 30 minutes. I wanted to quit, but I didn't. I think it was mostly because I was a bit dehydrated. I hadn't had much water today. It didn't help that the programs on TV were not very interesting. My left foot seemed a bit tight during the run. I guess I should try to stretch that a bit.
After the run, I got a good stretch in and then lifted weights.
After the run, I got a good stretch in and then lifted weights.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
OMG - I ran for an hour!!
Since it's starting to snow here, I had my first run using my new fitness club membership. I picked one of the treadmills, the one near the fan. At first it was cold, but I was really glad later on that I had the breeze! After walking for 0.2 miles, I upped the speed to 5.0 miles/hr with 1% incline. The machine picked up my HRM right away and it worked the whole time. I appreciate that. Over the run, I changed the speed up and down between 4.5 and 5.2 miles/hr. As I got close to 3 miles, I felt like quitting, but then I figured I should at least do 3.1 miles (5k), but when I got there, I realized I felt great and decided to keep running. Plus the guy running on the treadmill to my side quit right about then and I didn't want to seem like I was quitting because he was. (I'm silly, ok?) So, I kept running. I had Comedy Central on and some good shows were on. Before I knew it, I had run for 51 minutes. I figured, I was so close to running for an hour, why not keep going? I guess the treadmill is set to only work for an hour, so at about 56 minutes, I had to make it keep going. I made it to an hour!! It probably wasn't a good idea, but it's done. I'll give myself the proper rest, I swear. In that hour, I ran 4.75 miles! That's the farthest I've ever run. Sure, that's not fast, but for me it's far! I kept my heart rate between 172 and 175 for most of it.
Afterwards, I had a good stretch. They had a stretching machine. It was pretty good, especially for back stretches. I think I know now what I was doing wrong for the leg stretches. I'll have to correct it next time.
No bunnies today ;)
Afterwards, I had a good stretch. They had a stretching machine. It was pretty good, especially for back stretches. I think I know now what I was doing wrong for the leg stretches. I'll have to correct it next time.
No bunnies today ;)
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Running cold
I wimped out yesterday morning and didn't go running in the 34F/1C temperature. I woke up at 4am to go out, but I looked at the pile of running clothes I had set out the night before and then went back to bed for another hour. However, I told myself I would run in the evening. Luckily, it was a warmer day and I ran in 42F/6C weather at about 9:30pm. It wasn't too bad, but my lungs did get somewhat squeaky. When I got home, it turned into a very mild asthma event. I kept having to cough, so I took a couple puffs of my inhaler and all was fine. I usually only have asthma problems when I physically exert myself while breathing cold air or when I'm around cats that I am allergic to.
I ended up running for 34 minutes and went 2.87 miles/4.63 km. I actually tried to hold back even more than that in order to keep my heart rate down, but I couldn't. I ran to a Podrunner mix of 149bpm called Runnerfunker. Nice stuff. Maybe I'll try 145bpm next time to see if I can slow myself down that way.
It just seems I am much less likely to talk myself out of running in the evening. I think the explanation is akin to Newton's first law of motion. In the evening, I've been up and about, active cooking dinner, getting the kids to bed, etc. In the morning, however, I'm getting up from my warm, cozy bed. It's not even an issue of whether I'm a morning person or not. I know that I'll feel great when I'm done, I just sometimes can't stop myself from crawling back into bed. Maybe if I were getting plenty of sleep it would be easier.
I'm considering joining a gym for the winter to give me a warm place to run this winter. I don't know if I am hard-core enough yet to torture my lungs in the really cold and very windy weather we will most certainly be getting in a month or two. I'm rather afraid of falling on the ice that collects on the sidewalks here when it's cold, too. I know you can get spiky things for your shoes, but it still scares me. For the first 15 minutes or so of running, my toes were cold and somewhat numb despite my lovely Smartwool running socks. I guess that is a drawback of well-ventilated running shoes. That wouldn't be a problem on the indoor treadmill, though.
I ended up running for 34 minutes and went 2.87 miles/4.63 km. I actually tried to hold back even more than that in order to keep my heart rate down, but I couldn't. I ran to a Podrunner mix of 149bpm called Runnerfunker. Nice stuff. Maybe I'll try 145bpm next time to see if I can slow myself down that way.
It just seems I am much less likely to talk myself out of running in the evening. I think the explanation is akin to Newton's first law of motion. In the evening, I've been up and about, active cooking dinner, getting the kids to bed, etc. In the morning, however, I'm getting up from my warm, cozy bed. It's not even an issue of whether I'm a morning person or not. I know that I'll feel great when I'm done, I just sometimes can't stop myself from crawling back into bed. Maybe if I were getting plenty of sleep it would be easier.
I'm considering joining a gym for the winter to give me a warm place to run this winter. I don't know if I am hard-core enough yet to torture my lungs in the really cold and very windy weather we will most certainly be getting in a month or two. I'm rather afraid of falling on the ice that collects on the sidewalks here when it's cold, too. I know you can get spiky things for your shoes, but it still scares me. For the first 15 minutes or so of running, my toes were cold and somewhat numb despite my lovely Smartwool running socks. I guess that is a drawback of well-ventilated running shoes. That wouldn't be a problem on the indoor treadmill, though.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Kick the Couch and business trip
Last Saturday I participated in the Kick the Couch 5k (http://worldwidefestivalofraces.com/) and came in at 37 minutes. My son was being cranky at home, so I told him he could ride his bike along side me. That probably slowed me down, especially toward the end where he kept stopping to complain, but probably not running for a week beforehand slowed me down even more. It was interesting to think that people all over the world were running at the same time.
The next day, I went off on a business trip. I spent 5 hours walking around the Fine Arts Museum in Houston, which totally wore me out. There was no way I was going to run after that. I actually had sore leg muscles after that.
The hotel I was staying at had a nice set of treadmills, so I got in two runs on those. The first day, I also did a good circuit with the free weights. I actually remembered how to do a lot of lifts. They did have some weight machines, but not a full set. I think I prefer free weights anyway. The runs were good. This time, I ran the speed I wanted rather than going off of my HRM, so I got up into the 170s. The treadmills could read my Polar HRM (as did the others I used on my previous business trip). But, they weren't as reliable as my wrist watch at correctly filtering the signal. Towards the end, I got sweaty enough that I think the band slipped a little and didn't read at all. That's annoying, but I didn't feel like reaching up under my shirt to adjust the band with a colleague running on the next treadmill over.
On the trip, I stopped at a book store and bought No Need for Speed. I just barely started it, but it sounds like just what I need to stay interested in running. Now that it is getting colder, I'm starting to wonder if I want to join a fitness center for the winter so I have a treadmill for those days when I don't want to go outside. I don't know. In the past, I've used aerobics DVDs in my basement. That worked well, but I would also like to keep running. Maybe I'll run outside when the weather is ok and do DVDs when it is not.
The next day, I went off on a business trip. I spent 5 hours walking around the Fine Arts Museum in Houston, which totally wore me out. There was no way I was going to run after that. I actually had sore leg muscles after that.
The hotel I was staying at had a nice set of treadmills, so I got in two runs on those. The first day, I also did a good circuit with the free weights. I actually remembered how to do a lot of lifts. They did have some weight machines, but not a full set. I think I prefer free weights anyway. The runs were good. This time, I ran the speed I wanted rather than going off of my HRM, so I got up into the 170s. The treadmills could read my Polar HRM (as did the others I used on my previous business trip). But, they weren't as reliable as my wrist watch at correctly filtering the signal. Towards the end, I got sweaty enough that I think the band slipped a little and didn't read at all. That's annoying, but I didn't feel like reaching up under my shirt to adjust the band with a colleague running on the next treadmill over.
On the trip, I stopped at a book store and bought No Need for Speed. I just barely started it, but it sounds like just what I need to stay interested in running. Now that it is getting colder, I'm starting to wonder if I want to join a fitness center for the winter so I have a treadmill for those days when I don't want to go outside. I don't know. In the past, I've used aerobics DVDs in my basement. That worked well, but I would also like to keep running. Maybe I'll run outside when the weather is ok and do DVDs when it is not.
Monday, October 6, 2008
Finally an update
I've been traveling, so I haven't updated recently. While I was traveling, I was able to use the hotel's gym some. The first time, I tried the elliptical. Usually I like them, but I must have some weird electric field because my machine wouldn't work right. So, when the guy next to me with a working machine left, I moved to his. Then it wouldn't work right for me and my old machine seemed to be working for a person who took my place. It's not like this is rocket science. You hop on and start going and the nifty screen shows you stuff and lets you watch TV, etc. My screen would go blank and reboot and crazy things like that. So, the other two times I went to the fitness center I used the treadmills.
The treadmills were very nice. I set them for 1.5% incline and my goal was to run for 30-40 minutes with my heart rate at or under 150. I ended up letting it get to 155 or so because I really can't go fast with that low of a heart rate. I usually get up to around 170bpm when I'm running. I was watching TV while I ran. This was entertaining because I rarely watch TV and when I do, I don't have cable. The first time, I watched the Colbert Report. I was cracking up so much, it much have been a sight... me running while laughing. The second time wasn't as humorous. I had to do a lot of channel surfing.
I had a chance to use their nice weight machines, too.
The day I got there, I went to Mount Vernon and spent 4 hours walking around the grounds. I'd consider that cross training! The day I left, I took a walking tour of Alexandria, VA, so I got more cross training in!
Saturday we went on a hike in a nearby state park. This place actually has ups and downs and I was carrying my daughter in the backpack, so I got my workout that way. There was one spot that was really tough to go down.
Sunday, we went canoeing down a nearby river for 4-5 hours. Some of the trees were starting to turn. Very pretty. We even saw at least two bald eagles. What a regal bird! It always takes my breath away when I see them. Towards the end, there were some vultures high overhead. Maybe they could sense how tired we were!
Today, I took the kids to swimming lessons. My daughter is in the class where the parent comes along in the water. So, that's how I got my workout today. I try to stay really active with her in the water. I do a lot of walking around, turning in circles, and throwing her in the air!
So, there is the update! I'm going to see if the weather will let me get a run in tomorrow.
The treadmills were very nice. I set them for 1.5% incline and my goal was to run for 30-40 minutes with my heart rate at or under 150. I ended up letting it get to 155 or so because I really can't go fast with that low of a heart rate. I usually get up to around 170bpm when I'm running. I was watching TV while I ran. This was entertaining because I rarely watch TV and when I do, I don't have cable. The first time, I watched the Colbert Report. I was cracking up so much, it much have been a sight... me running while laughing. The second time wasn't as humorous. I had to do a lot of channel surfing.
I had a chance to use their nice weight machines, too.
The day I got there, I went to Mount Vernon and spent 4 hours walking around the grounds. I'd consider that cross training! The day I left, I took a walking tour of Alexandria, VA, so I got more cross training in!
Saturday we went on a hike in a nearby state park. This place actually has ups and downs and I was carrying my daughter in the backpack, so I got my workout that way. There was one spot that was really tough to go down.
Sunday, we went canoeing down a nearby river for 4-5 hours. Some of the trees were starting to turn. Very pretty. We even saw at least two bald eagles. What a regal bird! It always takes my breath away when I see them. Towards the end, there were some vultures high overhead. Maybe they could sense how tired we were!
Today, I took the kids to swimming lessons. My daughter is in the class where the parent comes along in the water. So, that's how I got my workout today. I try to stay really active with her in the water. I do a lot of walking around, turning in circles, and throwing her in the air!
So, there is the update! I'm going to see if the weather will let me get a run in tomorrow.
Friday, September 26, 2008
A new animal sighting
Today went ok. I almost talked myself out of running this morning. But, I got out the door around 5:20am. The first half I did really well, but got my heartrate up too high. I was over 180bpm and couldn't get it down much without slowing down. (That HR was at the top of a long hill.) So, I slowed down. As Gary was mentioning, I'm probably taking it too hard. According to Wikipedia I should probably not be going over about 150 in order to build endurance. But I'm often in the "anaerobic" and "VO2 Max" ranges. Not great. Maybe this coming week I will work on longer but slower runs. I will be travelling, so I'm afraid I'll be on a treadmill.
Today for the first time on a run, I saw a raccoon! A relatively large one. He was running across the street on a collision course with me, but as soon as he saw me, he turned around and headed back to where he came from. I'm glad he did turn around because if he kept on, it would have probably meant he had rabies or some other disease.
The stars were out in full force today. Clear sky. I enjoyed that.
bunnies: 5, this time during the first half
people: 2
raccoon: 1
Today for the first time on a run, I saw a raccoon! A relatively large one. He was running across the street on a collision course with me, but as soon as he saw me, he turned around and headed back to where he came from. I'm glad he did turn around because if he kept on, it would have probably meant he had rabies or some other disease.
The stars were out in full force today. Clear sky. I enjoyed that.
bunnies: 5, this time during the first half
people: 2
raccoon: 1
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