Yesterday, I started a half marathon training plan for a race that's in January. I haven't run for a while, due to this lung crap, combined with my asthma - I was afraid of either 1) dying or 2) coughing so much that it would be a stumble, and not a run (and potentially gross anyone out in the vicinity, too).
This morning, I get out of bed...and feel the familiar pain in the (right) heel. Presumably the beginning of plantar fasciitis, again. The first (and only) time I had it was when training for the first Moab half marathon, in 2014. I had to take a couple weeks off, no biggie - it was at the beginning of the training plan. This time, however, time is of the essence, because the race is mid-January, and I've taken so much time off. I can't afford to jack with this plan.
Part of the problem, I'm afraid, is a combination of my crappy work shoes (old Sketchers black suede shoes) and the standing desk. I stand at the standing desk constantly, never sitting. Today, I sit. Sigh. Hopefully this works - the only reason I worry about, is because it's a notoriously common and nagging issue. I like to think I'm tougher than that.
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Challenge vs. Bummer
Clearly i need to re-work my reactions to things. I ran The Other Half, and then ran only a few times in the 6 weeks following, and continued to gain weight. I've been eating lazily (read: out, instead of cooking at home or eating simply/whole foods) and basically feeding my misery. The residual hacking cough isn't helping matters. I'm reading a book (Ultra Mindset) that is talking about positive psychology: "Seventy-five percent of job successes are predicted by yourb optimism levels, your social support, and your ability to see stress as a challenge instead of a threat." What I'm taking away from that quote is that I need to put the brakes on the downward spiral, by seeing the way I feel as a challenge - to overcome/reverse that feeling. Game on. I'm signing up for a January half marathon on Friday.
Monday, November 23, 2015
Recovering from a Cold
After The Other Half, I took a few days off, ran 4 miles the Saturday following the half, rode 16 the next day, and ran another 4 that following Friday, and that's it, until today,when I ran 4 in the park. I managed to get the crappy cough that my 13 year old son had while we were in Moab. For me, it apparently combined with some uncommon strain of strep, to boot. So, I've had a super crappy month, mileage-wise. I'm aiming to fix that! I also realize that I've been a lot LESS active this summer/fall than I was the last two summer/falls. I have to fix that, too. No wonder I've gained some weight back. I just ran four on my lunch hour, and didn't die from coughing. So, I think I'm on the road to recovery.
This summer, I felt pretty good, endurance-wise, which is really all I want. My goal for fitness is to be able to do stuff - from a 100 mile bike ride on the weekend, to a 15 mile hike while we go wheeling, to a half marathon. I totally felt that way this summer. I feel like even though I was lighter on the running, and a lot heavier on the biking this past summer, I was pretty good endurance-wise. I always just wanted to take off riding for a full day, alone. Never actually DID it, but I knew I could if I could find the time. Maybe in 2016 I'll do that... This winter, I really want to step up, though, and make sure I'm getting enough running in. Having run two half marathons, I think I'm ready to have a full as a goal. Also, I've been eyeballing the Transrockies Run, which is 120 miles over six days. They have a smaller one, too (three day). I would LOVE to be able to have that as a feasible goal for 2018. I would also love to find a trail MTB ride that's similarly long, and supported - but not like the technical, scary stuff that I've seen. Something for a far more recreational rider. That would be a blast - for my whole family. Maybe I'll have to look out of state for something like that.
Goals:
SNOWSHOE this winter!
Run 4-5 times a week
Ride (weather permitting) 2-4 times per week (I probably won't do this much during the winter, but as Spring sets in, more as the season gets back on track)
Lift (or bodyweight stuff) 3-4 times per week
Events:
Platte River Half (maybe - I signed up for it this spring, and didn't run it because the transportation in an area I'm completely unfamiliar with sounded light a nightmare)
MS150 (last weekend of June)
Possibly the Missoula Half (July - if we can get plane tickets and rent a Jeep)
Pedal the Plains (September)
The Other Half in Moab (October)
I'm also thinking some year, I'll have to skip The Other Half and run the Detroit Marathon (or the half, if one of my parents will run it with me). Pretty much my whole family has run that one. I should be able to kick some but, with my "high altitude training" ha ha.
My minor goal is to get back into a size eight, due to my activity, not my eating (size 10 has been my "best" for 14 years now).
This summer, I felt pretty good, endurance-wise, which is really all I want. My goal for fitness is to be able to do stuff - from a 100 mile bike ride on the weekend, to a 15 mile hike while we go wheeling, to a half marathon. I totally felt that way this summer. I feel like even though I was lighter on the running, and a lot heavier on the biking this past summer, I was pretty good endurance-wise. I always just wanted to take off riding for a full day, alone. Never actually DID it, but I knew I could if I could find the time. Maybe in 2016 I'll do that... This winter, I really want to step up, though, and make sure I'm getting enough running in. Having run two half marathons, I think I'm ready to have a full as a goal. Also, I've been eyeballing the Transrockies Run, which is 120 miles over six days. They have a smaller one, too (three day). I would LOVE to be able to have that as a feasible goal for 2018. I would also love to find a trail MTB ride that's similarly long, and supported - but not like the technical, scary stuff that I've seen. Something for a far more recreational rider. That would be a blast - for my whole family. Maybe I'll have to look out of state for something like that.
Goals:
SNOWSHOE this winter!
Run 4-5 times a week
Ride (weather permitting) 2-4 times per week (I probably won't do this much during the winter, but as Spring sets in, more as the season gets back on track)
Lift (or bodyweight stuff) 3-4 times per week
Events:
Platte River Half (maybe - I signed up for it this spring, and didn't run it because the transportation in an area I'm completely unfamiliar with sounded light a nightmare)
MS150 (last weekend of June)
Possibly the Missoula Half (July - if we can get plane tickets and rent a Jeep)
Pedal the Plains (September)
The Other Half in Moab (October)
I'm also thinking some year, I'll have to skip The Other Half and run the Detroit Marathon (or the half, if one of my parents will run it with me). Pretty much my whole family has run that one. I should be able to kick some but, with my "high altitude training" ha ha.
My minor goal is to get back into a size eight, due to my activity, not my eating (size 10 has been my "best" for 14 years now).
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
The Other Half: Moab, UT October 18, 2015
A second The Other Half is officially under my belt. This year, we had a larger group, and went out for a bit longer. We left Wednesday at 2:30. The group consisted of Dianna, Rick and Jana, Joey, Chris/I, Ryan, Deidre, and Lou.
The rest of the people traveled separately - Michael, Nick/Jen, and Robyn with her three ND friends, as well as Jessica/Troy, who were renting a condo in the same development as us.
This was our first time using VRBO. It was GREAT. The condo was wonderful, and very well appointed. The only thing I would've wished for were more bathrooms, but that wasn't even really a big issue. Lots of kokopellis in the decorating, which was extra cool.
We arrived Wednesday evening, and ate at the Moab Diner immediately. After that, we found the condo (pretty difficult in the dark; the setup of driveways/entrances/addresses is somewhat confusing) and got settled in.
On Thursday, we ran Hell's Revenge, and Chris, Joey, and Jessica actually did Hell's Gate. That was terrifying. The only one I could watch was the second one of Chris's, and Jessica's.
On Friday, we ran Kane Creek. It was great because they had new ribbons on the trees. This allowed us to be much more efficient, and stay the trail much better. It was surprisingly dry, though.
This trip was the "bitch point" trip, and we had stickers made that say "Bitch Point Moab 2015."
On both Friday and Saturday night, we played Cards Against Humanity. It was raucous. The people I hang out with have issues. :)
On Saturday, we started to run Poison Spyder, but the gate was closed about halfway in, for trail maintenance. We did some playing around, and then went home. Some of the group continued on to Fins N' Things, but we went home.
Sunday was the half marathon. I didn't have high hopes, since my training took a back seat to bike riding (got a bunch of new people for the team for next year) and I skipped all my short runs. While I was a few minutes (five, I think) slower than last year, the run was better overall. I'm not sure why/how. I skipped the first and last aid stations, and alternated water/gatorade during the run. Everything went wonderfully. I also learned that even though I don't like beer, I can still get a free glass!! I got one for this year, and will endeavor to remember in years to come, to grab that glass.
When standing in line for the porta-potty, I overhead a guy selling someone on the Missoula half marathon. It's July 10, 2016. I'm toying with the idea of signing up, depending on what I can find deal-wise on plane tickets. Chris is talking about renting Jeeps.
Photos from the race:
It's so gorgeous. The road winds along the river the whole way. There is no traffic, as they close the road for the race. I highly recommend this for a destination run - even for non-Jeepers - there's so much to do in Moab for people who love the outdoors!
The rest of the people traveled separately - Michael, Nick/Jen, and Robyn with her three ND friends, as well as Jessica/Troy, who were renting a condo in the same development as us.
This was our first time using VRBO. It was GREAT. The condo was wonderful, and very well appointed. The only thing I would've wished for were more bathrooms, but that wasn't even really a big issue. Lots of kokopellis in the decorating, which was extra cool.
We arrived Wednesday evening, and ate at the Moab Diner immediately. After that, we found the condo (pretty difficult in the dark; the setup of driveways/entrances/addresses is somewhat confusing) and got settled in.
On Thursday, we ran Hell's Revenge, and Chris, Joey, and Jessica actually did Hell's Gate. That was terrifying. The only one I could watch was the second one of Chris's, and Jessica's.
(Joey (who lost a bet) spotting Chris up Hell's Gate)
(Troy (with some help from Chris) spotting Jessica up Hell's Gate)
(Dianna emerging from one of the hot tubs on Hell's Revenge)
On Friday, we ran Kane Creek. It was great because they had new ribbons on the trees. This allowed us to be much more efficient, and stay the trail much better. It was surprisingly dry, though.
On both Friday and Saturday night, we played Cards Against Humanity. It was raucous. The people I hang out with have issues. :)
On Saturday, we started to run Poison Spyder, but the gate was closed about halfway in, for trail maintenance. We did some playing around, and then went home. Some of the group continued on to Fins N' Things, but we went home.
Sunday was the half marathon. I didn't have high hopes, since my training took a back seat to bike riding (got a bunch of new people for the team for next year) and I skipped all my short runs. While I was a few minutes (five, I think) slower than last year, the run was better overall. I'm not sure why/how. I skipped the first and last aid stations, and alternated water/gatorade during the run. Everything went wonderfully. I also learned that even though I don't like beer, I can still get a free glass!! I got one for this year, and will endeavor to remember in years to come, to grab that glass.
When standing in line for the porta-potty, I overhead a guy selling someone on the Missoula half marathon. It's July 10, 2016. I'm toying with the idea of signing up, depending on what I can find deal-wise on plane tickets. Chris is talking about renting Jeeps.
Photos from the race:
Tuesday, June 30, 2015
MS150 Ride, 2015
Another MS150 Bike Ride under the belt.
This year, I more than doubled my fund raising compared to last year, and I doubled the size of the team. My goal for next year is to double again.
The weather was incredible, and the people were even better.
The ride was with Rick & Jana, and my high school buddy Geoff. Rick and Jana trained a bit (plus they had done Ride the Rockies a few years before, so they're badasses anyway) but Geoff didn't really have the time, with two kids of differing ages in sports - and him coaching both.
We all met at our house, and Chris and Joey dropped us off at the FRCC parking lot in Rick's truck.
This year, I more than doubled my fund raising compared to last year, and I doubled the size of the team. My goal for next year is to double again.
The weather was incredible, and the people were even better.
The ride was with Rick & Jana, and my high school buddy Geoff. Rick and Jana trained a bit (plus they had done Ride the Rockies a few years before, so they're badasses anyway) but Geoff didn't really have the time, with two kids of differing ages in sports - and him coaching both.
We all met at our house, and Chris and Joey dropped us off at the FRCC parking lot in Rick's truck.
We didn't stay together long - Rick is super fast, and Jana is faster than Geoff. Geoff and I stuck together, at the back at the pack. At the last rest stop before the 66 mile/75 mile split, Geoff and Jana paired up, and Rick and I paired up. Rick and I did the rest of the 75 mile (going up part of Horsetooth Reservoir) and Jana and Geoff did the rest of the 66 mile (they skipped Horsetooth). It was AMAZING. We met at the end, Chris made dinner reservations, and we all grabbed showers, and Trish and the kids came up. Joey, Chris, me, Rick, Jana, Geoff, Trish, Sam, and Max all ate meat at the Rodisio in Ft. Collins.
Day two, Chris and Joey took Geoff for the Waffle House special - after they dropped Rick and Jana and I off at the starting line, they took Geoff to get his bike and then to the Waffle House, and then dropped him off at the last rest stop before the finish line. Geoff actually later said that he felt like he could've done more miles the second day. Good for him, though, to end on a really good note. The three of us did the 66 mile route on the way back (which wound up being 60 miles), and Jana and I stuck together. It was HOT. Jana almost overheated near the end, but was luckily OK.
I am very much looking forward to next year. Trish says she's in. Chris is going to do it. Hopefully Joey is. There is event talk that Jeff and Dianna might train for it, and if that's the case, Jon and his wife Veronica will come up from Texas to do it, too.
ETA: I forgot to describe the stunt plane that Geoff and I were lucky enough to get to watch on our way through Gunbarrel. It was SO COOL - we were riding straight toward the stunts, and Geoff regaled me with stories about his grandfather and planes, and his grandparents in general. What a special time.
Thursday, June 18, 2015
Morning Ride & Pop & a Bit of Philosophy
This morning was gorgeous. 60* and clear sky. I got up at 5:30, inhaled my two scrambled eggs and about 20 ounces of water, and hit the path on the bike by 5:50. Notice the conspicuous lack of Dr. Pepper. I've decided to quit again. I've been trying to lose the 10 winter pounds for a couple months now, but the scale isn't budging, despite using MFP and being diligent. So, I'm looking at you, sugar. I just can't have a relationship with soda. It's no good for me. I have to say - starting the day with a ride made it 1,000x easier to skip it. I totally haven't missed it (despite the fact I'm typing about it). [Update 6/30/15 - still haven't stuck to quiting. I will, though.]
Also...generally speaking I live my life being grateful daily. I'm a very lucky person. I had a wonderful childhood. I've had mostly wonderful people in my life, and those that I perceived as not-so-wonderful, I've been able to learn and grow from that interface. My house isn't fancy - but we're paying less for it than people rent apartments for, because we bought at a good time and knew we didn't want to max out what the bank told us we could "afford" (get financing for) . My job is stressful, but I work with wonderful people and I believe in what we do and the people who do it, and I wouldn't trade it for the world. I am rich in my family and friends. I feel also, that I'm lucky to be able to recognize and have gratitude for my life. There are many people who always want more, and who are perpetually miserable because they can't ever "achieve" happiness and contentment, despite always trying to reach it. Luckily, over the years, I have learned how to feel happy and content NOW, no matter what, and to recognize that loneliness, sadness, frustration - are all a part of the experience, and don't have to override my overall gratitude. I'm very thankful for having the ability to learn that over the years, and embrace it. Knock on wood, for all of it.
Monday, June 15, 2015
OCD/Habits/Excuses
While browsing FB, just saw one of those sponsored ads by RunHaven come up in my feed (which, incidentally, also pictured a decent-looking, lifted TJ with armor and a bumper/winch on it), titled "The Realities of Running." It basically talked about habits, and "must haves" when it comes to running.
I have to say - I disagree with all of it, and this is why. (Disclaimer: I'm SO not some hard core runner. I'm a hack at best, but I'm fairly consistent and get out there regularly, knock on wood).
Running is the most natural, basic movement for humans. Why do we need all this extraneous crap and habits? The article talked about ear buds, clothes, shoes...The only thing I take with me without fail is my phone (which I'm going to have with me anyway, all day, and I use MapMyRun as my diary), and my running shoes. On the shoes, it's not even necessarily my most recent, newest pair - if I forget my "new" shoes at work, and want to run at home - I'll pull out my older pair, the ones I use for snow running that have screws in them - and go for a run. I don't use music. I don't care what I wear. Forgot my jog bra? Too bad. Not an excuse. I've run (painfully and probably ridiculous-looking enough) in my regular bra more than once. Forgot socks? Tough. I've run without them. Meal time is off, and I'm feeling either too full or too empty? Again, tough. I believe it makes me a stronger and more versatile runner, to still go when everything isn't exactly right, or even when things are quite wrong. I still push through it and get in my miles, and am invariably happy that I did.
Just the THOUGHT of needing everything to be JUST SO to go out and run stresses me out. Just. Go. Just RUN!
I have to say - I disagree with all of it, and this is why. (Disclaimer: I'm SO not some hard core runner. I'm a hack at best, but I'm fairly consistent and get out there regularly, knock on wood).
Running is the most natural, basic movement for humans. Why do we need all this extraneous crap and habits? The article talked about ear buds, clothes, shoes...The only thing I take with me without fail is my phone (which I'm going to have with me anyway, all day, and I use MapMyRun as my diary), and my running shoes. On the shoes, it's not even necessarily my most recent, newest pair - if I forget my "new" shoes at work, and want to run at home - I'll pull out my older pair, the ones I use for snow running that have screws in them - and go for a run. I don't use music. I don't care what I wear. Forgot my jog bra? Too bad. Not an excuse. I've run (painfully and probably ridiculous-looking enough) in my regular bra more than once. Forgot socks? Tough. I've run without them. Meal time is off, and I'm feeling either too full or too empty? Again, tough. I believe it makes me a stronger and more versatile runner, to still go when everything isn't exactly right, or even when things are quite wrong. I still push through it and get in my miles, and am invariably happy that I did.
Just the THOUGHT of needing everything to be JUST SO to go out and run stresses me out. Just. Go. Just RUN!
Tuesday, June 9, 2015
Mini Incline
Sunday morning, I picked up coworker Kait at 7:00 to head to Castle Rock for the "mini-incline." See pictures and an article here. The staircase has 200 stairs, and they're numbered in 10s. There is a trail that winds down from the top of the staircase, back to the bottom of the stairs. It took us about 15 minutes per loops. We did the loop six times, for a total of 1,200 stairs, and 4 miles. It was really cool, and I'm looking forward to doing it again - and moving up to the Manitou Incline. After this little workout, we had a BBQ to attend. People asked me if I was sore, to which I replied, "I don't know yet." I was guessing that with all the walking paired with the stair ascension, it wouldn't be too bad. Turns out, I was right.
Yesterday, I ran 4.5 miles on my lunch break.
Today, I feel great.
I'm thinking of planning another Mini-Incline for this coming Sunday morning.
Summer is here, life is good.
Yesterday, I ran 4.5 miles on my lunch break.
Today, I feel great.
I'm thinking of planning another Mini-Incline for this coming Sunday morning.
Summer is here, life is good.
Monday, June 1, 2015
Diet, Exercise, Energy
The last half of last year, I had gotten to the point where I was eating well, and my performance didn't seem to be easily affected by when/what I had eaten. I'm desperate to get back that feeling of overall strength. Even though I can still easily run my 4.5 miles, and ride my 20 (or 35), I still feel as though I'm under-performing. I never, ever want to slack off so much over the winter again. Ugh!!
Wednesday, May 27, 2015
Getting Back At It
Yesterday, ran four miles in Cheesman, and then rode 20 after dinner. Today, ran four in Cheesman (though the stupid app that I pay for recorded it as 4.5) and it was rough - my legs are tired. Not riding tonight; going to have Chipotle with the family (they claim to be GMO-free now?). Tomorrow after work, I'm scheduled to ride with Aaron. Looking forward to that; hope I'm rested enough.
It feels really good to be getting into the swing of things again. It feels really good to be putting my running and riding back up on my priority list. It feels good to be doing it, and then thinking of the next time, when I finish up.
Also, my youngest ran a mile with his dad after school yesterday. :)
It feels really good to be getting into the swing of things again. It feels really good to be putting my running and riding back up on my priority list. It feels good to be doing it, and then thinking of the next time, when I finish up.
Also, my youngest ran a mile with his dad after school yesterday. :)
Friday, May 8, 2015
Fought Entropy Today
The weather has been shit (for Colorado) lately. Lots and lots of rain. "We need it." and I generally enjoy it, because it reminds me of growing up in Michigan.
Last night, I heard that this afternoon was supposed to be all rain. So, at about 1:30, I took off for a run, before it got worse. Ran four miles in the rain/light hail/lightning. Just about the time I stopped running, the rain subsided and it actually became a little sunny. Figures.
However, three hours later, it's been raining for a while again.
Still glad, even though now I'm cold, that I got the miles in.
Last night, I heard that this afternoon was supposed to be all rain. So, at about 1:30, I took off for a run, before it got worse. Ran four miles in the rain/light hail/lightning. Just about the time I stopped running, the rain subsided and it actually became a little sunny. Figures.
However, three hours later, it's been raining for a while again.
Still glad, even though now I'm cold, that I got the miles in.
Thursday, May 7, 2015
Updated Stats
Copied from prior stats post, and added 2015 info. It's pretty pathetic:
Update on monthly totals:
August 2013:
70.39 miles (running)
30.39 (biking)
14.05 (hiking)
September 2013:
87.75 (running)
5.32 (biking)
4.11 (hiking)
October 2013:
61.25 (running)
November 2013:
79.23 (running)
December 2013:
73.73 (running)
January 2014:
88.47 miles
February 2014:
56.99 (running)
March 2014:
65.31 (running)
42.91 (biking)
April 2014:
52.88 (running)
96.32 (biking)
13.69 (hiking)
May 2014:
61.91 (running)
50.34 (biking)
3.0 (hiking)
June 2014:
42.55 (running)
236.32 (biking)
5 (hiking)
July 2014:
45.81 (running)
115.30 (riding)
11 (hiking)
August 2014:
54.03 (running)
38.52 (biking)
18.63 (hiking)
September 2014:
75.83 (running)
27.67 (biking)
October 2014:
79.24 (running)
November 2014:
37.12 (running - pathetic!)
3.92 (hiking)
4.96 (biking)
:45 minutes (elliptical)
December 2014
25.19 (running - even more pathetic!)
:45 minutes (elliptical)
January 2014
26.41 (running)
February 2014
7.66 (running)
8:45 time (elliptical)
47.10 (biking)
March 2015
23.68 (running)
95.95 (biking)
16.28 (hike)
2:20 (elliptical)
2.48 (walk)
April 2015
22.26 (running)
29.72 (biking)
:45 minutes (elliptical)
Update on monthly totals:
August 2013:
70.39 miles (running)
30.39 (biking)
14.05 (hiking)
September 2013:
87.75 (running)
5.32 (biking)
4.11 (hiking)
October 2013:
61.25 (running)
November 2013:
79.23 (running)
December 2013:
73.73 (running)
January 2014:
88.47 miles
February 2014:
56.99 (running)
March 2014:
65.31 (running)
42.91 (biking)
April 2014:
52.88 (running)
96.32 (biking)
13.69 (hiking)
May 2014:
61.91 (running)
50.34 (biking)
3.0 (hiking)
June 2014:
42.55 (running)
236.32 (biking)
5 (hiking)
July 2014:
45.81 (running)
115.30 (riding)
11 (hiking)
August 2014:
54.03 (running)
38.52 (biking)
18.63 (hiking)
September 2014:
75.83 (running)
27.67 (biking)
October 2014:
79.24 (running)
November 2014:
37.12 (running - pathetic!)
3.92 (hiking)
4.96 (biking)
:45 minutes (elliptical)
December 2014
25.19 (running - even more pathetic!)
:45 minutes (elliptical)
January 2014
26.41 (running)
February 2014
7.66 (running)
8:45 time (elliptical)
47.10 (biking)
March 2015
23.68 (running)
95.95 (biking)
16.28 (hike)
2:20 (elliptical)
2.48 (walk)
April 2015
22.26 (running)
29.72 (biking)
:45 minutes (elliptical)
Fighting Entropy
Going to try to use this blog to (also) take notes about motivation, emotional state, weather, etc., to see how all together it relates to meeting (exceeding?) my very reasonable health and well-being goals.
Last fall, I ran a half marathon for the first time. It felt great. I felt great. I felt like I was on the cusp of being able to do anything I set my mind to; I finally felt "in shape." I also felt like I was finally comfortable in my own skin, despite still wanting to lose another 10 lbs. At that point, I was 149-150 lbs. I remember thinking, this is the weight/size that back when I wish I could just lose weight overnight, and then have to earn keeping it off, I wished I could be. So I achieved (earned!) it, and then what? Evidently I got lazy. Winter. Lost motivation. It took a while for the weight to creep back on, but it did. A bit over half of it came back. I do feel as though my composition has changed some, though (for the better/more healthy), and I don't exactly LOOK like I've gained 10 lbs back. But, I could be full of shit, too.
A couple weeks ago, I signed up for a "Fundamentals" class at one of the local crossfit gyms that a friend goes to. I like the concept of crossfit, but - and I think this comes from being a free-weight junkie back in my teens/early 20s - I don't like the lack of targeted form training. Too much risk of injury. The gym itself is AWESOME. The people are so great, and the atmosphere is wonderful. There's also the financial thing - it's completely unaffordable, even though my husband would support me if I wanted to remain a member. I just can't spend that much money on myself, when I could spend $100 on Amazon and get some of the equipment to do some of the exercises regularly at home, AND when what I love doing most is outside, and essentially free (other than running shoes and a bicycle - but those aren't monthly payments). If it were the only way for me to get in shape or whatever, then I'd be OK spending that money. But it's not. And there's a lot of other, way cheaper, stuff that I enjoy more.
Last fall, I ran a half marathon for the first time. It felt great. I felt great. I felt like I was on the cusp of being able to do anything I set my mind to; I finally felt "in shape." I also felt like I was finally comfortable in my own skin, despite still wanting to lose another 10 lbs. At that point, I was 149-150 lbs. I remember thinking, this is the weight/size that back when I wish I could just lose weight overnight, and then have to earn keeping it off, I wished I could be. So I achieved (earned!) it, and then what? Evidently I got lazy. Winter. Lost motivation. It took a while for the weight to creep back on, but it did. A bit over half of it came back. I do feel as though my composition has changed some, though (for the better/more healthy), and I don't exactly LOOK like I've gained 10 lbs back. But, I could be full of shit, too.
A couple weeks ago, I signed up for a "Fundamentals" class at one of the local crossfit gyms that a friend goes to. I like the concept of crossfit, but - and I think this comes from being a free-weight junkie back in my teens/early 20s - I don't like the lack of targeted form training. Too much risk of injury. The gym itself is AWESOME. The people are so great, and the atmosphere is wonderful. There's also the financial thing - it's completely unaffordable, even though my husband would support me if I wanted to remain a member. I just can't spend that much money on myself, when I could spend $100 on Amazon and get some of the equipment to do some of the exercises regularly at home, AND when what I love doing most is outside, and essentially free (other than running shoes and a bicycle - but those aren't monthly payments). If it were the only way for me to get in shape or whatever, then I'd be OK spending that money. But it's not. And there's a lot of other, way cheaper, stuff that I enjoy more.
Monday, February 9, 2015
Mountain Biking - (A tiny bit) In the Mountains!
Bikes have been a love affair of mine since I was in my early teens. My biological mother bought me a 12-speed Schwinn when they first came out. See "Schwinn Traveler:" http://schwinncruisers.com/catalogs/1984.html Mine was the girl's version, and was burgundy. I dreamed of getting panniers for that bike, and I learned all about how to take care of it mechanically. I rode a sesquicentennial bike ride from Dexter to Ann Arbor with my folks, when I was probably 14. LOVED that bike, loved riding. It was before I could my (much anticipated) driver's license, and the sense of freedom, and the connection to the outdoors and the countryside, was exhilarating. That's a feeling that's stayed with me through the years.
In about 1991, an old ex boyfriend of mine owed me a lot of money, and we agreed that he'd buy me a (then completely badass and cutting edge) Scott mountain bike (not my pic, but that's the bike):
I loved that bike so much. Back then, tubes just weren't that fat. This was one of the first of its kind, right when mountain bikes were becoming main stream. It retailed for about $900. That was a lot back then. I rode around Boulder with it as much as I could. The guy that bought it was a total showoff, and would make fun of me for not being able to ride mine like he could ride his. (He had an extensive motocross/enduro background, so duh.) I moved the bike to Maryland with me after I got married (not to the guy that bought the bike, but not much better, either...). Several years later, when it was time to move back to Colorado, there was literally NO more room on the moving van so, feeling as though I had no choice, I sadly opted to give the bike away to the wife of one of the guys Chris worked with.
I have only dreamed of being able to actually ride my bike it the mountains. This past Sunday, friends Aaron and Ryan and I went for a bike ride up Waterton Canyon, and did a tiny part of the Colorado Trail. Aaron is a total badass on a mountain bike - he can bunny hop stairs, and he loves flying down the mountains. Ryan is a badass (competitive) endurance athlete, and could climb like crazy, but didn't have a lot of experience with the technical aspect (though he still made it look effortless). We went here: http://www.singletracks.com/bike-trails/waterton-canyon.html. We did the Lenny's Rest loop, at the end of the canyon road. Just a little taste of the Colorado Trail. About half of it was snow packed. We went from trekking though snow up to our ankles, to carrying our bikes though shin-to- knee-deep snow.
First, while we were waiting for Aaron:
The steep switchbacks at the beginning of the trail:
It was a GREAT day. We rode from 12:00-4:00, and covered 17 miles. I hiked a LOT of it. However, I actually did better than I thought I would, and I can't wait to go back over and over again this summer (maybe even on the way home from work during the week) and try to ride a little more of it each time, until I can successfully complete the entire loop in the saddle. That's my goal for this summer. It'll take a lot less than four hours, regardless of how much I ride, once the snow's all melted.
In about 1991, an old ex boyfriend of mine owed me a lot of money, and we agreed that he'd buy me a (then completely badass and cutting edge) Scott mountain bike (not my pic, but that's the bike):
I loved that bike so much. Back then, tubes just weren't that fat. This was one of the first of its kind, right when mountain bikes were becoming main stream. It retailed for about $900. That was a lot back then. I rode around Boulder with it as much as I could. The guy that bought it was a total showoff, and would make fun of me for not being able to ride mine like he could ride his. (He had an extensive motocross/enduro background, so duh.) I moved the bike to Maryland with me after I got married (not to the guy that bought the bike, but not much better, either...). Several years later, when it was time to move back to Colorado, there was literally NO more room on the moving van so, feeling as though I had no choice, I sadly opted to give the bike away to the wife of one of the guys Chris worked with.
I have only dreamed of being able to actually ride my bike it the mountains. This past Sunday, friends Aaron and Ryan and I went for a bike ride up Waterton Canyon, and did a tiny part of the Colorado Trail. Aaron is a total badass on a mountain bike - he can bunny hop stairs, and he loves flying down the mountains. Ryan is a badass (competitive) endurance athlete, and could climb like crazy, but didn't have a lot of experience with the technical aspect (though he still made it look effortless). We went here: http://www.singletracks.com/bike-trails/waterton-canyon.html. We did the Lenny's Rest loop, at the end of the canyon road. Just a little taste of the Colorado Trail. About half of it was snow packed. We went from trekking though snow up to our ankles, to carrying our bikes though shin-to- knee-deep snow.
First, while we were waiting for Aaron:
Here are Ryan and my bikes:
Sheep, not giving even the tiniest of fucks that there are people everywhere:
The South Platte River, with duckies (canvas backs, I feel like):
Here is the sign for the beginning of the Colorado Trail:
The steep switchbacks at the beginning of the trail:
The second half of Lenny's Loop - where we were hiking/carrying our bikes.
It was a GREAT day. We rode from 12:00-4:00, and covered 17 miles. I hiked a LOT of it. However, I actually did better than I thought I would, and I can't wait to go back over and over again this summer (maybe even on the way home from work during the week) and try to ride a little more of it each time, until I can successfully complete the entire loop in the saddle. That's my goal for this summer. It'll take a lot less than four hours, regardless of how much I ride, once the snow's all melted.
Thursday, January 8, 2015
Getting Back in Gear
So I updated my annual totals in an earlier post to add November and December - and boy were those numbers dismal!! No wonder I've gained a few pounds! I'm working on turning that around. I need to stay focused on the big goal - being able to do 14ers this summer, and lots of other hiking with the Jeeps, etc. I told my husband I hoped to run suicides on the Jeep trails - start off running/hiking when the Jeeps depart, hit the end of the trail and turn back, then run to wherever the Jeeps have made it to, and then turn and run to the end of the trail again, and over and over till the day is done. That's like 6 hours of running/hiking most likely. The thought of doing that EXHILARATES me and I can't wait to see how it feels.
I'd also like, some day, to run Leadville. Not this year. Maybe not even next year. But I'd like to do it, if I can find the time to train.
Today's run was great, despite it being my work loop three times. It was almost 6 miles, and I had to stop because my lunch hour was over - I felt like I could go on indefinitely. I love runs like that. I was wearing the grey stripy pants and my new turquoise top, no gloves, no hat (it was high 40*s) and my hands were a bit chilly to begin with, but warmed up perfectly. It was a bit sloppy - wet and icy and lumpy - but I figure that's good for getting some of those stability muscles more action.
Tomorrow I'll probably do the elliptical at work again, as it's supposed to be sleeting again. However, I've found that it's more motivating to tell myself to get it done on my lunch hour, so I can relax (ha, relax...right) at home for longer (as opposed to going to the gym to use the elliptical after work).
I'd also like, some day, to run Leadville. Not this year. Maybe not even next year. But I'd like to do it, if I can find the time to train.
Today's run was great, despite it being my work loop three times. It was almost 6 miles, and I had to stop because my lunch hour was over - I felt like I could go on indefinitely. I love runs like that. I was wearing the grey stripy pants and my new turquoise top, no gloves, no hat (it was high 40*s) and my hands were a bit chilly to begin with, but warmed up perfectly. It was a bit sloppy - wet and icy and lumpy - but I figure that's good for getting some of those stability muscles more action.
Tomorrow I'll probably do the elliptical at work again, as it's supposed to be sleeting again. However, I've found that it's more motivating to tell myself to get it done on my lunch hour, so I can relax (ha, relax...right) at home for longer (as opposed to going to the gym to use the elliptical after work).
Sunday, January 4, 2015
Studded Running Shoes!
With the new snow we got last night, and the fact that the sidewalks are never cleared, I decided to finally put studs in my ("old") shoes. My husband said last winter he'd do it for me, and he still hadn't...so I went to Home Depot, spent $1.91 on 3/8" sheetmetal screws with hex heads (that's with the military discount) and then came home and coincidentally found said hubby's cordless drill with a super thin bit in it - and used that for pilot holes. I put three on each side of the forefoot, and two on each side of the heel. They were a major pain in the ass to screw in, but after about 30 minutes I got it and they look great. And work great. I just got back from a wonderful 5.7 mile run (I gave up on the last .3 because it was more and more and more uphill back to the house, and I haven't run in several weeks, so eh).
I ran on the trail to Sheridan. The trail was great! Had a 50% response to the "hi"s, and there were several pups, including two labs - a yellow and a chocolate (they were of the same family and very beautiful and well-mannered), and one Aussie-looking young'n who I was dying to pet. There were also a couple shepherd-mixes, and a purebred Shepherd with sunglasses. I wanted to ask what was up with that.
When I set out, it was 10*, and a little after 1 PM. When I finished, it was a little warmer. I was wearing my UA compression tights, the new Storm Gear grey pants that I bought with the Dick's gift card Joey gave me for Christmas, my Thorlo running socks with King Soopers bags over them, then tied around my ankle and over the running pants; on top I had the Columbia sleeveless white warm/cool top Mom got me for Christmas, plus the UA long sleeve grey-ish v-neck warm top, with the new grey/pink UA Storm Gear hoodie (=sweat), plus the white Alabama windbreaker over that. I also wore my green neck gator, and my Carhart hat with the face muffle. I didn't wear the stuff over my face past about mile 2.
I was super comfy, and definitely warm enough.
On the way home, there's a blue 4 bedroom house across from the middle school, on the east side of Pierce. A guy was out shoveling, and we exchanged a few words (started with "how're you doing?" and me thanking him for shoveling, because so many people don't). Turns out, he's a Vietnam vet, and we talked about the city of Westminster (related to shoveling, etc.), and then guns. I had to go, to get back home to the dogs and to figure out if I was going to go out to the Crawl Space to meet everyone, but I hope to run into him again soon. It's nice to know there's someone like that so close. I think his name is Lauren (Loren?) Brown. Chris would love talking with him, I'm nearly certain. He (Mr. Brown) mentioned that he wouldn't recognize me if he saw me again, since I was all bundled up.
I ran on the trail to Sheridan. The trail was great! Had a 50% response to the "hi"s, and there were several pups, including two labs - a yellow and a chocolate (they were of the same family and very beautiful and well-mannered), and one Aussie-looking young'n who I was dying to pet. There were also a couple shepherd-mixes, and a purebred Shepherd with sunglasses. I wanted to ask what was up with that.
When I set out, it was 10*, and a little after 1 PM. When I finished, it was a little warmer. I was wearing my UA compression tights, the new Storm Gear grey pants that I bought with the Dick's gift card Joey gave me for Christmas, my Thorlo running socks with King Soopers bags over them, then tied around my ankle and over the running pants; on top I had the Columbia sleeveless white warm/cool top Mom got me for Christmas, plus the UA long sleeve grey-ish v-neck warm top, with the new grey/pink UA Storm Gear hoodie (=sweat), plus the white Alabama windbreaker over that. I also wore my green neck gator, and my Carhart hat with the face muffle. I didn't wear the stuff over my face past about mile 2.
I was super comfy, and definitely warm enough.
On the way home, there's a blue 4 bedroom house across from the middle school, on the east side of Pierce. A guy was out shoveling, and we exchanged a few words (started with "how're you doing?" and me thanking him for shoveling, because so many people don't). Turns out, he's a Vietnam vet, and we talked about the city of Westminster (related to shoveling, etc.), and then guns. I had to go, to get back home to the dogs and to figure out if I was going to go out to the Crawl Space to meet everyone, but I hope to run into him again soon. It's nice to know there's someone like that so close. I think his name is Lauren (Loren?) Brown. Chris would love talking with him, I'm nearly certain. He (Mr. Brown) mentioned that he wouldn't recognize me if he saw me again, since I was all bundled up.
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