Friday Workout

1) Walked 1.1 mile (20 min) on the treadmill
2) Rode 2.65 miles (15 min) on the recumbent bike

Had a pretty easy workout today, hope it helps me to be more energetic tomorrow for my scheduled 10-mile long run with the Galloway group. My non-running workouts have been a little punier this week--though my runs have been good. I wonder if that'll make a difference.

I made it back to Yoga for Athletes on Wednesday night, and haven't been as sore as I was last week. Not sure if it's because I'm stronger and more limber, or if I didn't push myself as hard this time. We did work on some different moves, so it's hard to tell.

I started measuring and tracking my food this morning. It's a bit of a pain, but I think it'll be worth it.

UPDATE: Took a 17 minute (0.84 mile) walk break at work. I should do that more often!

Just the Bike

I went to the gym and rode 6.81 miles (40 minutes) on the recumbent bike. Between yesterday morning's run, last night's yoga class, and getting to bed at midnight, I'm tired this morning! I hope to get some walking in this afternoon, though.

Meanwhile, I need to figure out how to get George and me to bed earlier at night on a regular basis. Well, I'm not really responsible for George's bedtime, but it sure helps when we're in sync about going to bed. He's such a night owl, and I used to be, but I'm a lot more fresh when I get to bed earlier! Help!

Umstead's the Charm

Well, I decided to return to Umstead State Park for my run this morning, to see if going back would be enjoyable. I was a little wary of the bugs, since I have two big bug (horse flies, I think!) bites on my legs from Monday! I'm so glad I went back, as I had another good run, this time sans bugs, and I had an even better average pace today than Monday! Plus, I went a little farther! Can you tell I'm excited?!

I also listened to music instead of podcasts today, and I think the songs on my workout playlist helped me pick up the pace a little.

On my way home, I stopped at the gym and rode the recumbent bike for a bit. Final result:

1) Ran/walked 2.13 miles in 36 minutes
2) Rode 2 miles in 11:11 minutes on the recumbent bike

Back on the Bike

This morning I went to the gym and rode 5.27 miles (30 minutes) on the recumbent bike. I have a scratchy throat and am a little tired this morning, so I'm glad I took it easy at the gym. I hope the sore throat is nothing serious. Heading to work, will see how it goes.

Thanks, Umstead!

I decided to get one of my mid-week runs in this morning, eventhough I'm still a little sore from the weekend. I got in the car, and decided what I need was a change of scenery from the gym and my normal running route. So, I headed to Umstead State Park! Man, what a nice change of scenery that was! It had rained in the night, so the trees and plants had that nice, post-rain-uber-green look to them. There was very little car traffic, so I had the park almost to myself. I listened to music, which as a nice change of pace from the usual podcasts too. The only out-of-the-ordinary thing was that these big, winged buggy things started coming after me after I turned around. (I think a couple of them were tag teaming me!) I tried to outrun them for a while, and thought I'd succeeded, but I learned the hard way that there was one still one me when I sat down in the car! (Yikes!)

After I got Big Buzz out of my car, I headed for the gym, and got a 2.32 mile (13 minutes) bike ride to go with my run/walk (1.94 miles, 33 minutes) in the park. Ahhh, I'm feeling better today!

Walk Today

I woke up pretty tired and sore, so I did a leisurely 2.44 mile walk outside in 52 minutes. It was sunny and slightly windy, a beautiful morning that lifted my spirits!

Yesterday's Long Run

While I was out walking this morning, I realized I never got around to posting about yesterday's long run with the Galloway group. Part of it, I think, is that I'm starting to feel and sound like a broken record! I ended up at the back of the pack AGAIN! Man, it's discouraging! I did go 12.5 miles, but in 3:48:00. (Okay, it's a bit of an estimate--but a darn good one, based on several Garmin Forerunner comparisons. I'd forgotten to turn mine back on after a water stop once.) Average pace stunk again! *banging head against palm of hand* Okay, I'm pouting about it again! For a little motivation this morning, I pre-ordered a paperback copy of Dean Karnazes' 50/50: Secrets I Learned Running 50 Marathons in 50 Days--and How You Too Can Achieve Super Endurance!
Have any of you read it?

After the run/walk that lasted forever, George and I joined some of the Galloway group at the Panera on Six Forks Rd., and a guy walked by on these strange leg-things. (See the picture above.) We were curious, so we all ended up having a nice conversation with him. The leg things, it turns out, are called power risers, and he walks around on them for exercise! He was very trim, so he was a good spokesperson for them. Here's a video from YouTube, demonstrating them.

Just a Walk

I decided just to walk from my apartment complex today. No frills, low key, since I had an early doctor's appointment this morning. I ended up walking 1.56 miles in 32:18 minutes. Was a pretty relaxing walk. I'm still a little sore from Wednesday's yoga class, and tomorrow's a long run with the Galloway group. Got 7 hours of sleep last night, and feel a bit better overall. I plan to get to bed early again tonight!

Can I Have a Do-Over?!

1) Ran/walked ca 0.84 mile in ca 16 minutes outside
2) Rode 3.6 miles in 20:04 minutes in the recumbent bike

Today's workout was pretty much a wash! I woke up sore in the hips and right hamstring from last night's yoga class, but I decided to run anyway. It took me a while to get out the door, as I'm still pretty tired in general. (I got to bed a little earlier last night, but still need to do better!) So, I got to the gym and was going to run/walk outside first. I realized, as I was getting out of the car, that I forgot my Garmin Forerunner! I'd also forgotten to start the brown rice (in the rice cooker) for the day's meals, so I drove back home, walked up two flights of stairs to my apartment, took care of business, and returned to the gym to start my workout. (Way late now!) My Garmin said the battery was low, but I was hoping I could coax it through the run today. About 8 minutes out, it died for good. :( So, I turned around and run/walked to the gym. Bummer.

I went inside the gym and rode the recumbent bike then. It helped lift my spirits a little, but I'm missing the run. I think my hamstring will benefit from the lighter workout today, though. Need to let it recover before I injure it!

I feel like I've been complaining a lot about my workouts, especially my run-related workouts lately. Need to think on that! (I did have an interesting conversation about running with Susan after yoga class yesterday.)

Oh wait! I forgot to mention that I went to yoga class again last night! The regular instructor for "Yoga for Athletes" was there this time, and she was so impressive! Wow. Great instructional demeanor, remembered students' names and issues, wow. Look forward to more classes with her. BUT my hips and right hamstring are sore. Gotta do something about that. Great class, though!

Wednesday Walk

I just walked on the treadmill this morning, 2.21 miles in 40:01 minutes. I'm feeling a bit tired from yesterday's run AND two late nights in a row. I must do better about to bed earlier!!

John "The Penguin" Bingham had a blog post yesterday about running in the heat that really spoke to me, and made me feel a little better about slowing down this summer. Read Bingham's blog post here.

Tuesday Run/Walk

I headed outside for a run/walk this morning. Eventhough I drove to the gym, I ran from there, and never made it inside. It was a foggy morning, and nice to be outside in it. I set the Gymboss for a 1:1 run/walk ratio, but sometimes ran 2 minutes, then walked 1, hoping to speed up my average pace. Maybe I did, but I ended up with a 17:13 average pace, slower than usual for my mid-week runs. Okay, I know I shouldn't be discouraged, but I am! Can I blame it on the heat? The fog? :) At any rate, I'll keep running, and hope things turn at some point.

Final total: Ran/walked 3.5 miles in 1:00:16.

Monday, Monday

I'm feeling a little tired this morning, so my workout was a little slow.

1) Walked 0.54 mile (10:06 min) on the treadmill
2) Rode 6.1 miles (35 min) on the recumbent bike
3) Stretched legs for about 10 minutes. Started with IT bands, and finished with a couple of yoga-pose-type things. My leg muscles are feeling pretty tight.

Got a nice boost from finding my race report from last year's Magnificent Mile race on the this year's race website. It helped remind me that I need to keep the speed thing in perspective. Eventhough I get grumpy sometimes about wanting to be faster myself, I get so much more out of running (including meeting great people!) than sometimes meets the eye.

Sunday Morning Workout

1) Walked 2.5 miles (45:08 min) on the treadmill, some of it at a 1% incline
2) Ran 0.37 mile (5:04 min) on the treadmill
3) Did 1 mile (12:15 min) on the elliptical
4) Rode 2 miles (11:10 min) on the recumbent bike

It felt good to shake the workout up a little bit this mornng. In other "shake up" news, I just registered for my first 10 mile race, the Anna's Angels 10 Miler on September 27. Come run with me!

Long Run Blahs

This morning I did a long run/walk with the Galloway group at Shelley Lake. The scheduled run was 10 miles, but I only did 8.43 miles in 2:32:00, about an 18:02 pace. Blah. Eventhough the distance was still the longest I've run this summer, I'm still pretty discouraged. I think I stopped short because the parking lot was close, George and Jacob had stopped at 6 miles and gone ahead to Panera, and most of the rest of the group was way ahead of me. Blah.

I did do a 1:1 run/walk ratio with the group for most of the first 6 miles, but walked a good bit of the last 2+ miles. Still, it was basically a fast walking average pace. Blah. And here I'm wanting to pick up my pace and be able to join and hang with the 13 minute pace group before the end of the season. Instead, I'm slippin' and slidin' back within my own pace group. Discouraging.

I think I need to work on an attitude adjustment, and remember the big picture. Building endurance without injury is key here. But when will speed come? I'm working on my diet, sleep, and hydration throughout the week, and I'm getting my mid-week training in. I must be missing something. Maybe it's just patience! ;>

On a positive note, we joined some other Gallowayers at Panera for brunch after the run/walk, and that was a treat! It's such an interesting, fun group of people who run with the Raleigh Galloway group!

Short Bike Ride

I went to the gym this morning and rode 5.3 miles (30 min) on the recumbent bike. I was still feeling kinda tired, so I decided to take it easy, since I have another long run scheduled for tomorrow. Still on vacation, I stretched out on the couch after I got home and fell asleep! A 30-minute workout usually doesn't wipe me out, but the nap sure felt good. Eventhough I've been on vacation from work, I've been busy with errands and stuff. Good to get things accomplished, but it's been kinda tiring.

Shelley Lake Run

Since I'm still on vacation, I slept in again, then put on my running shoes and the Garmin, and headed for Shelley Lake to run. I ended up run/walking 2.43 miles in 40 minutes, doing a 1:1 run/walk ratio. The pace is a little slower than I'd wanted, but I felt tired, probably from yesterday's long walk, a day full of errands, and a meeting last night. Maybe all of those are excuses, but they affected my energy level a bit this morning, I think.

Afterward, I stopped at the gym at rode 3.53 miles (20 min) on the recumbent bike, while watching Wimbledon.

Nice Walk Outdoors

1) Walked 3.37 miles in 1:06:00 outside, felt great to be outside!
2) Rode 3.05 miles in 17 minutes at the gym

I'm on vacation for the rest of this week, so I slept in a little, read a little, then went to work out. I was going to head inside the gym to walk, but decided to strap on the Garmin instead and walk for a while outdoors. Boy, it felt great! Caught up on several podcasts as well, an added bonus. :)

Feeling Better

1) Rode 6.23 miles (35:04 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Stretched the IT bands for about 5 min.
3) Walked 1.5 miles (25:15 min)

Feeling much better this morning overall, despite a partially restless* night. I'm not as tired and sore as I was this time yesterday.

*Note to self: Don't try to drink the day's total water quota after 9 PM again! Too many middle-of-the-night trips to the bathroom!

Tired Sunday Workout

1) Walked 1.1 miles (20:04 min) on the treadmill
2) Rode 2.6 miles (15 min) on the recumbent bike
3) Stretched the IT bands for about 5 minutes

Whew, tired and a bit sore today from yesterday's hilly long run! Feeling a bit better mentally about the whole back-of-the-pack thing, partly because I finished a running book. Now, I need to think about what I can do to improve my running. Speed wasn't in the cards for today, though.

I had a nice nap this afternoon.

Today's Mixed-Up Galloway Long Run

I returned to Raleigh for the Galloway training run this morning, with a very hilly 8+ mile course on the schedule. I started out with the 14/15 minute pace group, which decided to walk without my realizing it for a while! That felt a little off. Soon after, George told me he was going to catch up with the 13 minute pace group because he wanted to run some. He went ahead, and at the restroom break at Crabtree Mall, I decided to join him in the 13 minute pace group and see how it went. I enjoyed doing the 1:1 run/walk ratio for a while, but started fading and ended up way at the back of the group. George stayed with me pretty much, and eventually we decided we were far enough in the back of the 13 group, that we would wait for the 14/15 min group.

So, we started walking with the 14/15 group again, but eventually we were at the back of the 14/15 minute group, after pushing ourselves in the 13 min group for a while! So, now I'm feeling a little discouraged about being in the back of two DIFFERENT pace groups today, instead of being in the middle of just one pace group that chose to walk today. I hope that later, I'll feel okay about having tried the 13 min pace group, eventhough it didn't work out today.

Friday Workout Blahs

1) Walked 1.58 miles (30:08 min) on the treadmill
2) Rode 1.7 miles (10 min) on the recumbent bike

My left knee was sore while walking, and the soreness didn't really ease up any. What's up with that? Also, feeling generally tired. It's been a busy week at work and away from work, in addition to the longer than usual training runs during the week, plus trying yoga for the first time. I hope I can get to bed early tonight, but George and I have dinner plans first with our Covenant Group.

Thursday Run/Walk

I hit the roads again this morning, going 2.78 miles in 45:04 minutes, using a mostly 1:1 run/walk ratio. A few times I ran for 2 consecutive minutes, to help speed up my average pace per mile. Thankfully, it was a little faster today. :) Afterward, I stretched my IT bands for about 5 minutes.

First Yoga Class!!

I tried my first yoga class this evening, something called "Yoga for Athletes" at UNC Wellness. It was a really good class, and though I couldn't do everything to the fullest (some by a long shot!), I still got a lot out of it. I was a bit self-conscious, truth be told, but I need to remember that it's okay to be there, to try my best and get all I can out of it. Improvement takes time and practice.

Afterward, I checked my blood pressure at one of the machines (like what you see at the drugstore) nearby, and it was 101/61! Is that insane, or what?! I'll take it! :)

Just Walking

I got on the treadmill this morning for 1.9 miles in 35:02 minutes. That's it. In addition to being short on time this morning, I was long on soreness after yesterday's kinda slow run/walk. Go figure. I guess the distance yesterday played a factor. Ah well, some days are like this, right?

I'm going to try again to make the "yoga for athletes" class this evening (last week I didn't make it in time), and I bet that will help with the soreness!

Another Solo Run-Walk

I decided to run/walk outside to enjoy the beautiful morning. I used my Garmin Forerunner for mileage and the Gymboss for interval timining, and went 3.37 miles in 56 minutes, a 16:37 avg. pace. Here I thought I was going faster than my solo run last Friday, but it turns out I averaged about 20 seconds more per mile today! Yikes! Granted, I went about a mile and a half longer today than I did on Friday, and that's worth something! Still, I really want to speed up. Maybe I'll start working in some speedwork.

Monday, Monday

1) Rode 7.2 miles (40:05 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Walked 0.6 mile (10:07 min) on the treadmill
3) Ran 0.4 mile (5:03 min) on the treadmill
4) Stretches for IT band and hams, and strength exercises for hips and glutes

I loaned my Garmin to George this morning. He's taking it to work to measure where he walks for his lunchtime training walk/runs. I'm a little more worried about getting it back that I care to admit (and should be)! :> But I am almost as curious as George to learn what his lunchtime mileage is.

Planning a run/walk outside tomorrow morning myself before work, and am looking forward to it. :)

Easy Sunday Morning Workout

1) Rode 7.2 miles (40:06 min) on recumbent bike
2) Walked 0.35 mile (6 min) on treadmill
3) Ran 0.4 mile (5:09 min) on treadmill
4) About 5 min stretching

Long, Slow Run with Galloway Group

I joined the Galloway training group again for a long run near Cameron Village. We met at the Athlete's Foot, and went out from there. It was the hottest day so far. and I felt it! One of my goals today was to stay closer to the group leader, but she slowed down today, so that wasn't as hard! We ended up going 6 miles in 1:47:00 (okay, I kept walking til I hit 6 miles even!), a 17:50 pace--25 seconds slower per mile than last week! :[ This is probably the best pace group for me right now, but I so want to be faster!

So, what can I do in the coming week to work on my running?
1) Practice running more outside, using the run/walk method, and work on pace
2) Work on calories in vs. calories out, good nutrition, in hopes of losing weight. Lighter people can potentially run faster.
3) Work on flexibility--make getting to a yoga class a priority, and continue stretching IT bands (current trouble spot)

Good Outdoor Run

This morning I decided to run outside, eventhough it's a workday, and it felt great! I drove over to the gym, and ran from there. I used the Gymboss interval timer, which George helped me set up, and after a few warmup walking minutes, I started a run/walk ratio of 1:1. I ended up going a total of 2.76 mile in 45 minutes, a 16:18 min/mile average pace. Slow as molasses, yes, but it felt better than any treadmill run I've had in a while! I enjoyed every minute of this morning's run/walk! :) Part of it was being outside, but part of it was the built-in walk breaks, I think.

Afterward, I went inside the gym and did some IT band, hip, and glute exercises, then rode 3.06 miles (17:01 min) on the recumbent bike. Good way to start the day! Definitely feel better than yesterday!

Tired Workout

1) Rode 9.12 miles (51 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Stretched for about 5 minutes
3) Walked 0.35 mile (6 min) on the treadmill

I missed the yoga class last night (got lost!), so I ended up joining George at my mom's to try to figure out the printer. At 8:00, we hadn't had any luck, so Mom took us out to eat, and we didn't leave the restaurant until nearly 10 PM! Long day yesterday, dragging today.

Wednesday Workout

1) Walked 2.04 miles (35:05 min) on the treadmill
2) Ran 1.04 miles (13:05 min) on the treadmill
3) Rode 5.51 miles (30:01 min) on the recumbent bike
4) Stretched the IT bands for about 5 minutes

Today's workout felt really good! I still have some energy left, but need to use that to get ready for work! :)

Busy Tuesday

I kept the workout short this morning, as I had an appointment with the doctor this morning.

1) Walked 1.75 miles (30 min) on the treadmill
2) Ran 0.15 mile (2 min) on the treadmill---yes, pitiful, I know!
3) Stretched IT bands and did hip and glute strength exercises

The orthopaedist was glad my IT band was doing better, and said the knee noise is crepitus. No arthritis yet. She tested my quads and hamstrings, and said I REALLY need to work on flexibility and strength for my knee health. So, I'm planning to try a yoga class tomorrow night (hoping I can get away from work on time!).

Tonight, George and I joined the Raleigh Galloway group for a happy hour at Tobacco Road. I hadn't been there before, so it was fun trying a new place and seeing familiar faces. It was fun chatting with runner friends in normal clothes, with hair down and no sweating. I ended up eating supper there, a tomato and avocado sandwich with cheese grits as my side dish. It was yummy, and a wonderful change of pace.

Monday, Monday

1) Rode 5.3 miles (30:02 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Did some IT band stretches
3) Walked 1.2 miles (20:15 min) on the treadmill
4) Ran 0.40 mile (5:06 min) on the treadmill

My left knee had a dull ache going on during the run. Tomorrow I return to the orthopaedist for the IT band issue. I wonder if she'll be able to shed some light on the knee stuff. Hope so!

Sunday at the Gym

I walked on the treadmill for 30 minutes (1.78 miles) this morning, then did some stretching and strength exercises for my IT bands, hips, and glutes. I've been tired and achy all day, so I've been taking it easy today, even took a nap!

Back at it tomorrow!

Long Run With the Galloway Group

Today I ran/walked 5.74 miles in 1 hour 40 minutes with the Galloway group! It was a nice accomplishment to go the distance, though the average pace (17:25 minutes/mile) was considerably slower than last week's pace. Considering I'm feeling some aches and pains, I'm not complaining too much! I enjoyed the course for today's run, and I also chatted with some people I hadn't met before, which was really nice!

Another Mile!

1) Rode 5.55 miles (31 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Stretched IT bands for about 4 minutes
3) Ran 1.01 miles (12:03 min) on the treadmill

Today's running felt a little better than yesterday's, which was encouraging. Tomorrow is the scheduled 5-miler with the Galloway training group. 5 miles will be a nice hurdle to cross.

Thursday Workout

1) Strength exercises for hips and glutes, about 8 min
2) Rode 6.46 mi (36 min) on recumbent bike
3) Stretched IT bands for about 5 min
4) Walked 0.85 mi (15:11 min) on the treadmill
5) Ran 0.5 mi (6:07 min) on the treadmill

My knees are bothering me a bit this morning, a dull ache, especially the left one.

More Running, Plus Gym Tour

1) Rode 5.4 miles (30:07 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Stretched about 5 min
3) Walked 1.25 min (21 min) on the treadmill
4) Ran 1 mile (12:05 min) on the treadmill--felt good, but time to get ready for work

Last evening after work, I decided to go by UNC Wellness Center for a visit. I called George, who was on his way home too, and he met me there. I was glad he joined me, because as usual, he came up with some questions for the staff that I wouldn't have come up with, or taken the time to ask. I was impressed by all the cardio and strength training equipment, as well as the indoor track. The pool, hot tub, and sauna area are very nice, too, and the locker room seems to be well stocked. I'm also attracted to the class list, which includes yoga (there's even a "Yoga for Athletes" class!), tai chi, aqua, and other interesting stuff, in addition to the regular aerobics and spinning classes. I'm going to think about it some more, and see my orthopaedist next week. Meanwhile, my regular gym looked a little dingy and boring this morning, but it's mighty convenient, being right across the street from my apartment complex!

Tuesday at the Gym, Plus Physical Therapy

1) Walked 1.16 miles (20 min) on the treadmill
2) Ran 0.41 mile (5:01 min) on the treadmill

It was a short workout today, as I had my last appointment with the physical therapist at 7:30 this morning. *yawn* It was a good session, though. We reviewed the exercises I've been doing, and he suggested going to every other day with those. (Stretches can still be every day.) He also showed me some stretches to do while I'm "on the run" outside, to help with the IT bands and hamstrings (also tight).

We talked about my crackling knees, and he said it was "arthritic activity"--yikes! Okay, he's not a physician, but that's what he said. I asked him about running, and he hesitated, then said that with the amount of running I do, I should be fine. He recommended continuing to work on my strength and flexibility, and to get into some sort of pool program. Sounds like crosstraining is key. I'm going to look into UNC Wellness again, since my current gym doesn't have a pool.

Monday at the Gym, and Day #1 of 100 Day Challenge

1) Rode 9 miles (50:06 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Worked on IT bands, hips and glutes for about 10 min.
3) Walked 0.6 mile (10:06 min) on the treadmill
4) Ran 0.41 mile (5:01 min) on the treadmill

I'm starting my 100 Day Challenge with a sleep deficit, but I know that's something I need to work on! After today, just 99 more days! Woo!

Crosstraining at the Gym

1) Rode 6.3 miles (35:02 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Did about 10 minutes of stretching and strength exercises for IT bands, hips, and glutes
3) Walked 1.2 miles (20:01 min) on the treadmill
4) Ran 0.5 mile (6:17 min) on the treadmill

I'm a bit tired and sore today after yesterday's "long" run, but I'm still basking in the glow of covering 4 miles. Funny, huh?! :)

I got the the gym a little late this morning, and the cleaning service (one guy) was there. I've been noticing that the gym is kinda dirty lately, and this guy didn't seem to be doing a very thorough job. Maybe it wasn't "thorough day" on the gym cleaning schedule, but.... Well, anyway, I can say something, not say something, and/or find a new gym. I've been thinking about adding a gym (UNC Wellness Center) that has swimming, classes, an indoor track, stuff like that. The one I'm going to now is just sooo convenient!

Galloway Long Run

I joined the Galloway group again today for another long run, 4 miles on the calendar for today. It included the "Magic Mile," one of Jeff Galloway's predictors for training and racing. We met at the Fleet Feet store in Raleigh, warmed up a mile, then did the Magic Mile. I finished in about 14 minutes, which puts me in the right training group for now.

Those first two miles were a gradual decline, so the last two miles where back up the hill. After pushing a little in that mile run, the incline is a little tougher! I'm trying to adopt a good attitude about hills in training, though. They can only help, right?! :)

George ran with the group again today, and ran a 12 minute mile. He gave it just about all he had to run the Magic Mile, though, so the last two miles were tough for him.

I was feeling chatty today, so I enjoyed getting to know some other runners, both in my pace group and in some others. After the run, people milled around, eating the snacks and drinking water, so I enjoyed walking up to fellow groupies as well as people I didn't know, and asking them how their run went. Eventhough I consider myself an introvert, I get this way sometimes! :) Part of what helped is that I still have some energy left after these shorter runs, plus George was shopping for new shoes, and since we rode together, I had some time to kill.

I ended up run/walking 4.01 miles in 1:03:02, a big improvement, pace-wise, over last Saturday (by about 45 seconds), eventhough I walked and talked some extra.

I ran in a new running (and wicking) shirt from Lands End, by the way, and I loved how it felt! Cool blue color, too!)

Friday Workout, Plus 100 Days Challenge

1) Rode 8.08 miles (45:03 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Did about 12 min. of stretches and strength exercises for IT bands, hips, glutes
3) Walked 0.3 mile (5:08 min) on treadmill
4) Ran 0.65 mile (8:05 min) on the treadmill

The running felt good, just taking it easy before tomorrow's scheduled 4-miler.

Meanwhile, I'm wrapping my head around starting a 100 Days Challenge for myself, to focus on weight loss and other healthy habits, like drinking enough water, getting enough sleep, flossing, things like that. If you want to joing me, let me know!

Thursday at the Gym

1) Did 1.56 miles (20:05 min) on the elliptical, a nice change of pace from the bike
2) About 10 minutes of stretching and strength for IT bands, hips, and glutes
3) Walked 1.17 miles (20:03 min) on the treadmill
4) Ran 1 mile (12:13 min) on the treadmill

I had my annual deal with the gynecologist yesterday, and mentioned the knees crackling to him. He said he thought it was probably just from the extra stretching and strength stuff I've been doing to help with the ITBS. Hmmm. He's a runner too, and said he's had ITBS many times, so he may be right. (He didn't feel my knees, or anything. Not his specialty!) The thing I don't get is that these exercises are supposed to be HELPING, not producing extra symptoms! ;) My next PT appointment is next Tuesday.

Happy National Running Day

1) Rode 3.6 miles (20:04 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Did IT band, hip, and glute things for about 10 minutes
3) Walked 1.23 miles (21 min) on the treadmill
4) Ran 0.56 mile (7:01 min) on the treadmill

Today's running felt fine, but don't want to push it now with the knee stuff going on. I sent the physical therapist I saw last week an email, since I'll be returning to him next week. I have no idea if he responds to emails, but I figured it wouldn't hurt to try! :) More later.

Rest from Running

Okay, today wasn't a total rest day, but I decided to take a break from running today, as my knees have been doing some wierd snap-crackle-and-popping since May 26. I'm a little concerned about it, but I already have an appointment to return to the physical therapist next week, and the orthopaedist the week after that. So, meanwhile....

1) Walked 1.72 miles (30 min) on the treadmill
2) Spent about 15 minutes doing stretches and exercises for my IT bands, hips, and glutes
3) Rode 3.59 miles (20 min) on the recumbent bike

Monday Morning Workout

1) Rode 7.21 miles (40 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Stretched the IT bands, hips, and glutes for about 10 min
3) Walked 0.6 mile (10:10 min) on the treadmill
4) Ran 0.41 mile (5:02 min) on the treadmill

I think I'm going to need to pull back on the bike to give myself some more running time in the morning. Another alternative--get to the gym earlier in the morning!

This is my 1000th post on this blog! Yay! Had no idea I'd still be blogging. Guess I'm hooked! :)

Sunday Morning Workout

1) Rode 8.1 miles (45:02 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Stretched about 10 min (IT bands, glutes, hips)
3) Walked 1.16 miles (20 min) on the treadmill
4) Ran 0.40 mile (5:01 min) on the treadmill

I'm a little achy today after yesterday's Galloway group run, but not too bad. It's nice to have something beginning to resemble a long run under my belt again. Nice way to end the month.

I keep thinking about a conversation I had yesterday with a lady who was trying out the Galloway group, and mostly walked at the back of the pack with a friend of hers who ran with us last year. She said it helped having Janet with her, but that she still got discouraged. I shared with her some of the things I went through last season, and let her know that consistently showing up helps a lot. I hope she sticks with it.

Meanwhile, George is a little sore today, himself, but isn't complaining too much. I'm still really impressed that he stuck it out and finished yesterday. He's going to give it one more week before he decides whether or not to join the Galloway group.

First Galloway Run of the Season

I really enjoyed my first Galloway run of the season! It was a 3-miler, and the 14/15 min group ended up doing a combination of 40 seconds running, 1 minute walking. (She had planned for us to walk the 3 miles today, but several of us were interested in doing a combination, so she was very flexible and willing to change--yay!) The leader asked me to help her keep track of the back a little, which I forgot at first, but later I went back to check on a couple of people, who were doing fine, just taking it slow and easy.

George tried the Galloway group out this morning, as he's thinking about joining. He did great, and was generally keeping a faster pace within the group than me! I was impressed. I hope he'll sign up.

It was fun seeing some familiar faces this morning, as well as a lot of new ones! Met some nice people! :)

After the run, we did some shopping at Raleigh Running Outfitters, which was offering 25% off today. I got some gels, including some CarbBoom brand flavors, since that's what'll be offered at the Outer Banks Marathon. (Figured I'd start giving it a try.)

So far, my IT band is behaving itself, and I have that "good tired" feeling. Gonna go stretch out on the couch with a book. :)

Making Progress

1) Rode 6.3 miles (35:09 mi) on the recumbent bike
2) Did stretches and PT exercises for IT bands, hips, and glutes for about 10 min.
3) Walked 1.16 miles (20:03 min) on the treadmill
4) Ran 0.56 mile (7:02 min) on the treadmill

The stretches and exercises aren't hurting as much, which I think is a good sign! (Soon it'll be time to up the reps, right?)

Tomorrow's our first Galloway group run of the season. Hoping I can hang through the 3-miler! Haven't run that far at one time in several weeks. The run/walk/run pattern will make a difference, I'm sure.

Light Workout

1) Rode 6.3 miles (35 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Stretched the IT bands and did PT-recommended strength exercises for hips and glutes for about 10 min.
3) Walked 0.32 mile (6 min) on the treadmill

I'm a bit sore and tired this morning, between the physical therapy stuff and running more yesterday than I have in a while (plus I got to bed late last night), so I decided to take it a bit easy at the gym today.

I Ran a Mile! Yay!

This morning's gym report:

1) Walked 1.18 miles (20:14 min) on the treadmill
2) Stretched the IT bands for about 5 minutes
3) Did 2 reps of 10 vertical leg lifts
4) Ran 1.22 miles (15 min) on the treadmill--woohoo!
5) Rode 5.18 miles (25:02 min) on the recumbent bike

It felt great to run for a whole 15 minutes today! Over a mile, too! It's the small things, right?! Progress feels great!

Yesterday I went for a physical therapy evaluation, which confirmed the IT Band Syndrome diagnosis. The physical therapist put me through my paces and said I have weak hips and gluts, so he showed me how to do several exercises to help with that. I'll return in two weeks.

Tuesday Gym Workout

1) Rode 3.58 miles (20 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Walked 0.58 mile (10:05 min) on the treadmill
3) Stretched the IT bands for about 5 min
4) Ran 0.50 mile (6:05 min) on the treadmill

Short today, as I have an 8 AM physical therapy appointment. The short run is feeling good, though--looking forward to extending it.

Memorial Day Workout

1) Rode 6.33 miles (35:01 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Stretched the IT Bands for about 5 min.
3) Ran 0.40 mile (5:01 min) on the treadmill
4) Walked 0.60 mile (10:10 min) on the treadmill
5) Ran 0.40 mile (5:03 min) on the treadmill
6) Walked 0.30 mile (5:06 min) on the treadmill

I felt much better today, after taking yesterday off from running and having a lighter workout. Could've gone longer, but George and I plan to do some hiking today.

Happy Memorial Day, all!

More Thoughts on Galloway Training

I'm continued to mull over the things I learned on Saturday at the Galloway Running School, and how it'll effect my training and my attitude about running and other things.

For instance, the speed training drills we learned did a number on my body as well as my head. After he lead of through the two drills, I thought, "I can do this!" In the past, speed work meant (to me) just trying to run a faster pace on the treadmill. Now, I don't think that's gonna necessarily do it! I CAN do more with speed work, but I'll need to break out of the mold of running on the treadmill every time during the week.

I'm still wrapping my head around the fact that miles are miles, not matter whether you run, walk, or some combination, in terms of endurance. One of the keys is to run pain- and injury-free, whatever pace that may be.

I'm still really impressed by Jeff Galloway's communication style. He encouraged questions at any time throughout the four-hour Running School, and he never seemed flustered or put out by the questions, never came across as though he felt sidetracked from his agenda for the session. When he answered questions, he made sure he looked the questioner in the eye when he talked, but also included the rest of the audience in on the answer. Fascinating how he did that.

I remember feeling wiped out Saturday night, after the Galloway training group kick-off and Running School, and yesterday I had some aches and pains, and didn't much feel like pushing myself for much of a workout. I didn't run at all yesterday, and I thought I'd be motivated to do so, so I was a bit disappointed in myself. Well, I think the speed drills took a good bit out of me, which shows me I need to do them more often than NEVER! One thing Galloway pushes is never running two days in a row. I don't know if I can stick to THAT, but I "get it" now about not running every single day.

Sunday Walk and Bike

This morning I headed to the gym kinda late, and decided to walk outside first, eventhough it was getting warm. I walked 2.35 miles in 45:10 minutes, and while it felt good to be outside, I wasn't worth much for the rest of the workout. I went inside, stretched my IT bands for 5 minutes, and got some water. I managed to ride the recumbent bike for 1.03 miles (6 min), but didn't feel like pushing anymore this morning. Blah. Some days are like that, so I'm not gonna fret over it.

Galloway Day

This morning I went to the gym before the Galloway Training Group Kick-off.

1) Rode 3.6 miles (20 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Stretched my IT bands for about 5 min.
3) Walked 1.17 miles (20:03 min) on the treadmill

So, I went to the Galloway Kick-Off this morning! It started at 9 AM at the NC Museum of Art, and Jeff Galloway was there to speak to our packed auditorium. It was a big crowd for a holiday weekend, I thought! All very interesting and motivating. It was fun seeing people I knew from last year, though I missed seeing some people and wonder if they'll be back. George joined me, and is thinking about training for a race as well, which is exciting!

After lunch, I attended the Running School, a 4-hour clinic led by Galloway. I really enjoyed it, and got a lot out of it too. We had mostly classroom time, but he did evaluate everyone's gait individually, and we learned a couple of speed drills. I learned that I had a basically good gait, but will benefit from speed and hill work.

One of the things I learned today is that stretching will help the symptoms of IT Band Syndrome, but various forms of massage (including the foam roller) will actually heal it. I also got reminded that miles are miles, endurance wise, according to Galloway.

It was fun spending a little more time with Meri today, as she attended both sessions as well. Met some other nice folks as well. I felt pretty extroverted today, between asking a number of questions (hope I wasn't a pest!) and talking some to the other class participants.

Although I ran very little today, the day was pretty running intensive! I almost didn't blog about it, but I knew I'd be disappointed if I didn't. I'm pretty tired this evening.

Thursday at the Gym

1) Did 1.55 miles (20:04 min) on the elliptical
2) Stretched both IT bands for about 5 min total
3) Rode 7.23 miles (40 min) on the recumbent bike

No residual soreness from yesteray's 10-minute run--yay! I do still feel some tightness in my right IT band when I stretch, much more than my left side.

Little Bit o' Running!

1) Rode 9 miles (50:02 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Stretched the IT bands for about 5 min
3) Walked 0.58 mile (10:08 min) on the treadmill
4) Ran 0.80 mile (10:06 min) on the treadmill!

I'm feeling a good bit peppier today than I did yesterday, and it showed in my workout! The small amount of running I did felt strong and fairly easy, but I decided to stop before I overdid it. I'll keep stretching!

Tuesday Gym Workout

1) Rode 3.6 miles (20:05 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Stretched the IT bands for about 5 min total
3) Walked 0.52 mil3 (10 min) on the treadmill

I'm having my usual post-Monday-night-meeting "hangover." We don't drink or anything, it just always makes for a long Monday, and a challenging workout on Tuesday mornings. I enjoy the biweekly meeting a lot, but I hate the way I feel the next morning at the gym! I need to work on this!

Monday Morning Workout

1) Rode 6.27 miles (35:03 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Stretched both IT bands for about 5 min. total
3) Walked 1.12 miles (20:05 min) on the treadmill

I was tempted to try running again this morning to see if it felt better, but decided to wait until a little later in the week!

Sunday at the Gym

1) Rode 8.08 miles (45:03 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Stretched both IT bands for a total of about 5 minutes
3) Did 0.8 mile (10 min) on the elliptical
4) Walked 1.15 miles (20:04 min) on the treadmill
5) Ran 0.23 mile (3 min) on the treadmill

The running didn't feel very good, eventhough I was already warmed up from the rest of the workout. Felt sorta creaky, several aches and pains came to the surface. I'll keep stretching and taking it pretty easy. Meanwhile, PT starts next week. I'll be doing plenty of crosstraining between now and then!

No Running Today

1) Walked 0.5 mile (10:12 min) to the gym, as my car is in the shop
2) Stretched my right IT band for about 2 min
3) Rode 9 miles (50:04 min) on the recumbent bike
4) Stretched both IT bands for about 3 minutes (my right side is MUCH tighter than my left-still ouch!)
5) Walked 0.6 mi (11:02 min) on the treadmill (no ellipticals available, but I didn't feel "done")
5) Walked 0.4 mi (8:07 min) home from the gym (car's ready, just need a lift from George to retrieve it)

So, in my second round of stretching, I compared my right to my left IT band--wow! More stretching left to do! I can't WAIT to start physical therapy!

Friday Crosstraining (Still)

1) Walked 1.12 miles (20:03 min) on the treadmill
2) Stretched the IT bands for about 2 min
3) Rode 6.3 miles on the recumbent bike

A trial run is getting close, but not there yet! Soon....

Thursday at the Gym

1) Rode 3.5 miles (20:01 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Stretched by IT Bands for about 2 minutes
3) Rode another 4.5 miles (25:07 min) on the recumbent bike
4) Walked 0.56 mile (10:08 min) on the treadmill

My right IT band is getting better, though it's still tight. When I stretch my left leg, I can tell a difference! Still, I'm walking down stairs easier, and the doctor said that's a benchmark for being able to run again. I may try again this week; I admit to being gun shy about another setback, though. S-L-O-W-L-Y!

Meanwhile, I just registered for this year's Magnificent Mile Race in Raleigh. I ran it last year, and enjoyed it even more than I expected to! If you're Triangle area runner, come out and join me!

Wednesday Workout

1) Walked 1.1 miles (20:03 min) on the treadmill
2) Stretched my right IT Band for about 2 minutes
3) Rode 5.35 miles (30:02 min) on the recumbent bike
4) Did 1.18 miles (15:04 min) on the elliptical

Decided to spend more time on the elliptical machine today, and hope to add more strength training soon.

Feeling Better Today

1) Walked 0.84 mile (15:08 min) on the treadmill
2) Did about 2 minutes of IT Band stretching
3) Rode 8.1 miles (45:02 min) on the recumbent bike

I'm feeling better today, partly because I got a ton of sleep last night! I conked out on the couch while reading, woke up at 8:15 and went to bed, where I slept through the night. Other things that have helped:

1) I went to the eye doctor yesterday. She asked about my running and was sympathetic about my injury--and encouraging about my recovery.
2) I'm in the middle of reading several Steven Kellog books that I checked out of the public library on a lark over the weekend. The stories are charming, and the pictures are just delightful! Being children's books, they're a quick read, and they've been a fun pick-me-up! Learn more about Steven Kellogg here.

Monday at the Gym

1) Rode 2.11 miles (12 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Stretched the right IT band for about 2 min
3) Rode 6.3 miles (35:02 min) on the recumbent bike
4) Walked 0.57 mile (10:06 min) on the treadmill
5) Did 0.44 mile (6 min) on the elliptical

Nothing like a little crosstraining, huh?! I miss running, and have to something about the weight that's creeping back on! I'm looking for an attitude check now. Know where I can find one? *sigh*

Short Sunday Workout

Since I had to be at church at 8:30 this morning to participate as a Worship Associate, I had a pretty short workout. I rode 1.77 miles (10 min) on the recumbent bike, stretched my right IT band for about 2 minutes, then rode another 3.6 miles (20:04 min) on the bike. Better than nothing, right?! And I did make time to stretch--some!

Doctor's Diagnosis & Walk on the American Tobacco Trail

Yesterday afternoon I went to one of the orthopaedists at Duke Sports Medicine, and was diagnosed with Iliotibial Band Syndrome. She prescribed stretching and referred me to physical therapy, but the next appointment I could get for PT isn't until the end of the month! Arrgh! Meanwhile, I asked her when I could return to running, and she said that I need to be pain free when I'm walking down the stairs (which hurts now in the morning). *sigh* I'll do what I need to do to be ready for the Outer Banks Marathon, though! Stretching queen, that's me now!

This morning I walked 6 miles on the American Tobacco Trail. George wanted to go with me, so we walked together. That was a different routine for me! My early morning exercise time is my "me" time, when I often recharge and am in charge of what I do. I enjoyed the time with him, but did feel like I had to be considerate of him during the walk, since he's not used to exercising as much as I am. ("How are you feeling? When do you want to turn around?", etc.) I've been talking about the ATT for a while now, and he's been curious about it, wanting to walk together on it. Glad we walked together, but looking forward to returning to my own exercise routine. Am I strange?

I did stretch after we got home!

Friday Crosstraining

1) Walked 1.11 miles (20 min) on the treadmill
2) Rode 7.17 miles (40 min) on the recumbent bike

It felt good to get a full hour of cardio in this morning!! Looking forward to seeing the orthopaedist this afternoon. I'll post about it later today or tomorrow.

Thursday at the Gym

1) Walked 0.53 mile (10 min) on the treadmill
2) Ran 0.40 mile (5 min) on the treadmill
3) Rode 5.4 miles (30:01 min) on the recumbent bike

I'm continuing the crosstraining, but got a little more running in today. I didn't hurt while I was running, but the outside of my right leg was tight later. Tomorrow, the doctor--yay!

Wednesday Ride

I rode 6.28 miles (35 min) on the recumbent bike today. The outside of my right leg has been feeling a bit tight today, even without running, so I'm glad I have an appointment with Dr. Squire on Friday. She's really good, and I'll be doing what the doctor orders to get ready for the marathon by November 8! I'll be there!

Tuesday Gym Workout

1) Rode 8.12 miles (46 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Walked 0.61 miles (11 min) on the treadmill

My right leg wasn't as stiff going down the stairs after this morning's workout, so I'm encouraged by that. Still, I'll see what the orthopaedist says on Friday. I have a feeling she'll ask me about my stretching, which has been almost non-existent. Need to work on that!

On the way to work this morning, I stopped at the Ronald McDonald House, and met the volunteer coordinator there. I THOROUGHLY enjoyed meeting and talking with Karen! If I hadn't had a 10 AM meeting at work, I may have stayed even longer! Talking with her got me even more excited about raising money for the Ronald McDonald House of Durham as I train for the marathon in November. This is a cause that really motivates me!

In With the Doctor

I decided to go ahead and make an appointment with the orthopaedist about my right leg (IT band, I think), and she can see me on Friday-yay!. I saw that doctor earlier about another injury, and she was great! She may refer me to physical therapy again, but I figure that the earlier I start, the sooner I can run more miles! Woohoo! :)

Monday at the Gym

1) Rode 5.26 miles (30 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Walked 1.05 miles (20:03 min) on the treadmill
3) Ran 0.16 mile (2:04 min) on the treadmill

I find I'm getting bored on the bike, and I've really missed running! So I tried running a bit at the end of my workout this morning. We'll see how my leg takes the stairs down to the parking lot when I head out to work.

More Bike Time

I did a hour on the recumbent bike this morning, clocking 10.88 miles. Not much in the way of running this past week, but I feel like kept my fitness up.

Just the Bike

I got on the recumbent bike this morning for 8.05 miles in 45:02 minutes. I'm still coughing some, and STILL have laryngitis!

In other news, I bought a foam roller this morning to help with my right leg, and what might be IT Band Syndrome. I also talked with lady in a nearby Foot Solutions store about some insoles to help with the pain in my right foot. So, I feel like I'm heading in the right direction in some areas!

A Little Running

I was up in the night again with coughing spells, so I'm still not 100% yet. Still, it felt good to get to the gym, especially to run a little bit! I'm getting well and back on track. I think the rest did my legs some good.

1) Rode 6.2 miles (35:06 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Ran 0.57 mile (7:05 min) on the treadmill

Back to the Gym

Well, it felt good to get back to the gym today! I took it really easy, though, and did 35:01 minutes (6.16 miles) on the recumbent bike. Recovering from an upper respiratory tract infection, and heading back to work today, I decided to tread lightly. Boy, I miss running, though! Maybe I'll try some of that tomorrow! ;)

Sick

I went to the doctor yesterday, and was diagnosed with an upper respiratory tract infection. Ick! At least the flu was ruled out--a relief! So, I didn't exercise yesterday, and will take today off as well. I'm still coughing and have a low grade fever.

Needless to say, I'm going nuts, and really miss the gym! I think my legs and well as my lungs are appreciating the rest, though. I'll be back at it soon.

No Running Today

Since I'm feeling tired and achy this morning, I decided to take a break from running, but I did get on the bike and the treadmill.

1) Rode 6.3 miles (35:04 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Walked 1.46 miles (25 min) on the treadmill

Short Sunday Workout

1) Rode 7 miles (36:01 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Ran 0.51 mile (6:05 min) on the treadmill

Have a full day today, so I decided to cut things short this morning. Perhaps I'll get back to the gym later today. If not, I won't worry about it. Lots of good things on tap today!

Saturday at the Race (Plus a Workout)

This morning, I had my first volunteer stint at a race, the Angels Among Us 5K. I'd planned to race as well, but decided not to race after being on my feet for a busy hour and a half. I'm glad I volunteered, though--it was fun! I saw two people I knew, met a few more, and had a fun time! I got a free race t-shirt for volunteering, but wish I'd gotten a smaller size now. Maybe I can make it shrink!

After my volunteer shift was done, I went to the gym. For some reason, I just didn't feel like running outside this morning.

1) Rode 12.2 miles (65 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Ran 1.12 miles (13 min) on the treadmill
3) Walked 0.7 mile (11:11 min) on the treadmill
4) Ran 1.15 miles (13:09 min) on the treadmill

Now I'm ready for a Saturday afternoon siesta!

Friday Workout

1) Rode 6.3 miles (35:04 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Walked 0.63 mile (11:05 min) on the treadmill
3) Ran 2.16 miles (25:03 min) on the treadmill

Had a little bit left in me, but am volunteering for and running in the Angels Among Us 5K tomorrow morning! Saving a little energy for that.

Thursday at the Gym

My workout reflects that I'm rather pumped this morning--but a little short on time (meeting to try to get to)! First, I got a donation from my cousin, Wayne, for the Ronald McDonald House of Durham, in conjuction with my Outer Banks Marathon training! I'm so excited about this cause, and it's amazing how each donation motivates me! Then, I got a really nice email last night from the founder of the Magnificent Mile Race in Raleigh that made my day (at least!), as she'd discovered and actually read my race report from the 2008 Magnificent Mile! (It's a fun, well-organized race, and will be held on Sept. 13 this year. Run it!)

Anyway, the workout:
1) Rode 4.55 miles (25 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Walked 0.60 mile (10:14 min) on the treadmill
3) Ran 2.33 miles (27 min) on the treadmill

Wednesday Workout

The graph to the left is from the online workout log I keep on runningahead.com. While it's not the only workout log I keep, it shows the most colorful graph of my running miles! Each vertical bar is a day's running miles--the green for "easy" runs, and the blue for "long" runs. There are some other labels for types of runs, which I use on occasion, but my graphs are mostly green and blue. The short bars (and lack of them) on the left side are a result of my injury recovery, and you can the gradual increase in mileage (with some dips) as you go from left to right. Just thought I'd share. :)

Today's workout:

1) Walked 0.56 mile (10:01 min) on the treadmill
2) Ran 2.67 miles (32:04 min) on the treadmill
3) Walked 0.60 mile (10 min) on the treadmill
4) Ran 0.50 mile (6 min) on the treadmill
5) Rode 2.4 miles (12:01 min) on the recumbent bike

Tuesday Gym Workout

I'm a little grumpy this morning, my usual post-Monday-night-meeting weariness setting in. I thought about crawling back under the covers. I usually feel better once I've worked out, but I'm still pretty tired. And grumpy. I'll get over it!

Anyway, today's workout:
1) Walked 0.81 mile (15:05 min) on the treadmill
2) Ran 2.5 miles (25:02 min) on the treadmill
3) Walked 0.30 mile (5:09 min) on the treadmill
4) Ran 0.41 mile (5:01 min) on the treadmill
5) Rode 2 miles (11:02 min) on the recumbent bike

I needed the variety and shorter spurts to keep me going this morning.

Monday Morning Workout

1) Rode 6 miles (30:21 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Ran 1.25 miles (15:07 min) on the treadmill
3) Walked 1.20 miles (20:07 min) on the treadmill
4) Ran 0.59 miles (7:01 min) on the treadmill

Tired this morning, need to get to bed earlier tonight!

Sunday at the Gym

I had a nice workout at the gym this morning! I was kicking myself for not getting there earlier, but once I got into the groove, it was nice.

1) Rode 8.14 miles (45:16 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Walked 1.15 miles (20:01 min) on the treadmill
3) Ran 1.74 miles (20:02 min) on the treadmill

I ran a total of 17.27 miles this past week, up from 12.10 miles the week before, so I'm getting back into the game, slowly but surely. I also biked 38.02 miles and walked 8.21 miles this past week.

Saturday Run on the American Tobacco Trail

I picked a beautiful morning to run on the American Tobacco Trail! The weather was slightly cool, and sunny-soo nice! When I arrived, there was a group there about to start a low-key charity run for chordoma research, so once that started, the trail was a little crowded. Still, it was nice to see folks out in special t-shirts, running for a good cause. I ran 4.24 miles in 62 minutes, a pretty good outdoor training pace for me.

I stopped at the gym on the way home, and rode 2.7 miles (15:02 min) on the recumbent bike, and followed it was a 0.9 mile walk (15:17 min) on the treadmill.

Friday Workout

1) Rode 4.5 miles (25:05 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Walked 0.33 miles (6 min) on the treadmill
3) Ran 2.56 miles (31:02 min) on the treadmill
4) Walked 0.35 miles (6:08 min) on the treadmill

My right hip area is feeling a little tender this morning, so I decided to take the running a little slower and a little shorter this morning. It feels like a temporary thing from pushing a little hard during yesterday's (faster and slightly longer) run. I'm just a scaredy cat now about overdoing it too early! Keeping the big picture in mind, with the Outer Banks Marathon (November 8) and Ronald McDonald House fundraising.

It's Thursday at the Gym

1) Rode 5.37 miles (30:01 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Walked 1.23 miles (21:05 min) on the treadmill
3) Ran 3 miles (35 min) on the treadmill

Running 3 miles again on a weekday run felt great this morning! That used to be my base norm before my hip thing happened, so it's exciting to be back up there! Progress! :)

Wednesday Workout

This morning, I got the gym early, because I had an 8:15 dr. appointment. Eventhough I was tired, it felt great to get there so early!

1) Rode 3.6 miles (20:01 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Walked 0.64 mile (11:04 min) on the treadmill
3) Ran 2.26 miles (27 min) on the treadmill

The running is getting there, distance-wise. Bit by bit....

Tuesday at the Gym

1) Rode 7.2 miles (40 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Walked 0.6 mile (10:15 min) on the treadmill
3) Ran 2.16 miles (26:05 min) on the treadmill

I'm still feeling a little shy about adding up the miles again, not wanting to get reinjured, eventhough my runs lately have been feeling really good! At the end of my workouts lately, when I HAVE to get ready for work, I've been wanting to spend more time running.

Monday Workout

I got to the gym a little earlier today, and was able to take advantage of the extra time for cardio.

1) Walked 2.71 miles (45:07 min) on the treadmill
2) Ran 1.31 miles (16:01 min) on the treadmill
3) Walked 0.30 mile (5:04 min) on the treadmill
4) Rode 6.51 miles (36 min) on the recumbent bike

My weight was up a bit this morning after yesterday's yummy Easter lunch at Stonewood Grill in Cary, eventhough I only ate half of the salmon serving, and had a baked potato and veggies on the side. I was still tasting salt in my mouth this morning, so I have a feeling some of the weight gain is water weight. Okay, and maybe a little of it was the gelato I split with George after lunch! Back on track today.

Easy Sunday Morning Workout

This morning, I decided to take it a little easy, as my right hip felt a little tender again. I did a lot of standing the past two nights, on top of yesterday's short long run. It's a good reminder that I need to work on my core muscles.

1) Rode 4.48 miles (25:02 min) on the recumbent bike
2) Walked 1.46 miles (25:04 min) on the treadmill
3) Ran 1.22 miles (15:09 min) on the treadmill

"Long" Run at Shelley Lake

I woke up pretty weary this morning, and almost crawled into bed! I decided to get on out and do something, taking it easy. (I've had extra meetings on top of Sunday AM church and work on 5 of the past 6 days, an unusually busy schedule for me.) I thought about going to the gym across the street, but it was just too pretty a morning to stay inside. Since I had some library books to return, I headed to Shelley Lake (in the same direction from me as the library), and I'm glad I did! Boy, was it a pretty morening! I planned to go around Shelley Lake on a run/walk/run pattern, and went the opposite direction from my usual route for a change of pace. I missed the turn to stay around the lake, though, and it was a while before I stopped someone and asked! So, I ended up going 3.07 miles in 50:01 minutes, with some generous walk breaks in there. It's the most running I've done at one stretch in a while, and it felt great! I saw Ron W. from the Galloway group while I was out, and a lady who looked familiar as well. We stopped and talked for a couple of minutes, but her name didn't come to me. :( I should've reminded her of my name and saw where it took me! :) I think she was part of the Galloway group last year too, though.

On my way home, I stopped at the gym and rode the recumbent bike for 5.4 miles and 30:02 minutes.

Happy Friday Workout

I worked out a little extra today, because I overate a bit at last night's Passover Seder with George's family. It turns out that I only gained two tenths of a pound, which was a relief. Could've been better, but could've been worse.

1) Walked 1.72 miles (30:05 min) on the treadmill
2) Ran 0.5 mile (6:06 min) on the treadmill, had to make a pit stop
3) Ran 1.76 miles (21:01 min) on the treadmill
4) Walked 0.6 mile (10:03 min) on the treadmill
5) Rode 2.02 miles (11 min) on the treadmill

I'm still not breaking any speed records, but the running is feeling solid! It sure does feel good to be running again. :)

Little Bit Longer

I had a good workout this morning, though it was cut a bit short by an announcement in the gym that someone's tire was going flat. Guess who? Mine! Here's what I got in before the tire alert:

1) Walked 2.67 miles (45:17 min) on the treadmill
2) Ran 1.78 miles (22:01 min) on the treadmill

The running felt great, so now I'm thinking about some upcoming races again! :)