By my senior year of college, I had kind of outgrown the fraternity thing. I had my friends and we all hung out, but not much at the fraternity house. So, when we went to the house, all of the other guys would give me grief, saying things like "Whoa! Who is that? Mysto Man! Where have YOU been?" And that made it uncomfortable to go back to the house so that over time, I didn't want to go to the house to avoid everyone asking where I had been and why I didn't come by the house anymore. So, maybe I have avoided my blog because I haven't been here for awhile.
So, where have I been? Well after my last post and recovering from a maybe stress fracture in my right foot, I had a series of mishaps and set backs, primarily injury related. In May I ran a fun run with my 9 year old daughter and friends. After we got spread out I turned around to look for them, running backwards. I promptly stepped into a pothole, and went heels over head, landing on my head and elbow. I sprained my ankle, severely bruised my elbow, and had to get checked out for a potential concussion. All is fine on that front. But my left foot starting hurting. Namely, the base of my left big toe. I have always had some toe pain there, and it does not go away with rest or inactivity. But this toe pain got much worse over last several weeks. After putting it off, but being unable to run with it, I went to a podiatrist. The verdict: Stage Three hallux limitus. In essence, arthritis of the toe joint. This is rather worrisome in that it is chronic pain, and will NEVER go away. I have dealt with it for years, but it has gotten worse lately. I am not sure exactly what to do about it, actually. My podiatrist is developing an orthotic to limit toe flexion, but still, there is no cure for it.
So, I have run about 5 times in the last 3 months, none of which were memorable except for how hard they felt and just how far from OK I felt. My plans for the NY Marathon this fall are really, really unsure now. I might defer for a year. If I can get a good July and August in, I can make the call then. But I also need to drop some pounds now (I have been eating during this layoff), so I will need to train and diet, which is hard to do. And avoid injury to boot.
Later this week we leave for Colorado for 10 days. It is always good to get out there and be outside as much as possible. Running out there is a total bear because of the altitude, so it is a hard place to start a health kick, but I simply have to do it. It is also difficult because last year when I was out there over July 4th,I was in great shape. I had just lost 45 pounds, run a 1:39 half marathon and felt and looked great. This year is the polar opposite. In fact, it is why I have avoided my blogs and everyone else's also; sort of guilt at not being in the club, but almost the exact opposite: unhealthy and injured. And that is why I didn't post; my medical travails (and lack of motivation) were depressing enough to live through, but to blog about them would have been a real downer.
But one thing I have realized lately is that I am not getting any younger. These injuries, while annoying are not life threatening and just part of leading an active life. And as the saying goes "Get busy living or get busy dying."
I have missed reading about everyone's struggles and triumphs, and getting feedback also. But I am back now, hopefully for a while.
Showing posts with label Motivation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Motivation. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Before and After
I have to put up a new post, because I can't let my feet be the lead post on my blog. My feet are really unpleasant, and I prefer not to discuss them.
Spring race season is here! For me, it will mean a repeat of last year, in essence. Run in the various NYRR road races, and cap the end of the season with the Fairfield Half Marathon on June 27, 2010. After that it is summer, and marathon training begins. First up is the Colon Cancer 15K in Central Park on Sunday. I have never run this distance before, and it should be interesting. I looked at the course map, and it is basically two short loops around Central Park -- they cut out the Harlem Hill. Whew.
And I never did the post on the "What a Difference a year makes!" I think I had no one reading my blog last March (March 2009), because (1) I wasn't running; (2) I wasn't posting and (3) I had nothing to say. Then, I ran the NY 8000 meter race in the park on March 15, 2009, after my father in law bet me $100 I would sleep in and blow off the race. I got up, ran the race and pocketed $100 feeling pretty good about myself.
And then I got the race picture. I was stunned at how...out of shape... I looked. Deep down, I knew I was way out of shape. But I rationalized it that I could still run 5 miles in 43 minutes, so it wasn't that bad. But a picture says a thousand words. Here it is:
I was stunned at how lumpy I looked.
Ok, so I went on a diet, lost a bunch of weight and started running again. I had qualified for the 2009 NY marathon based on my 2007 racing season. (I actually qualified for the 2008 marathon but deferred my entry.)
So here is the marathon picture, at Mile 26, just after my disastrous cramp:
That picture is really satisfying. I remember that point in the race. I remember that feeling of almost there, and turning back into Central Park, off 5th Avenue, just after my cramp.
So, even now when I am not in marathon shape, both pictures motivate.
Spring race season is here! For me, it will mean a repeat of last year, in essence. Run in the various NYRR road races, and cap the end of the season with the Fairfield Half Marathon on June 27, 2010. After that it is summer, and marathon training begins. First up is the Colon Cancer 15K in Central Park on Sunday. I have never run this distance before, and it should be interesting. I looked at the course map, and it is basically two short loops around Central Park -- they cut out the Harlem Hill. Whew.
And I never did the post on the "What a Difference a year makes!" I think I had no one reading my blog last March (March 2009), because (1) I wasn't running; (2) I wasn't posting and (3) I had nothing to say. Then, I ran the NY 8000 meter race in the park on March 15, 2009, after my father in law bet me $100 I would sleep in and blow off the race. I got up, ran the race and pocketed $100 feeling pretty good about myself.
And then I got the race picture. I was stunned at how...out of shape... I looked. Deep down, I knew I was way out of shape. But I rationalized it that I could still run 5 miles in 43 minutes, so it wasn't that bad. But a picture says a thousand words. Here it is:
I was stunned at how lumpy I looked.
Ok, so I went on a diet, lost a bunch of weight and started running again. I had qualified for the 2009 NY marathon based on my 2007 racing season. (I actually qualified for the 2008 marathon but deferred my entry.)
So here is the marathon picture, at Mile 26, just after my disastrous cramp:
That picture is really satisfying. I remember that point in the race. I remember that feeling of almost there, and turning back into Central Park, off 5th Avenue, just after my cramp.
So, even now when I am not in marathon shape, both pictures motivate.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Achieve Greatness
Some are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them.* For me and my running, I am the "achieve greatness" type. I am not born fast or with the body and metabolism to be a particularly skilled runner. As a six foot plus type with a "large frame," I am more suited to weightlifting (which I detest) than running. That, coupled with a complete knee reconstruction in my right knee (repair of 3 torn ligaments) twenty years ago, means I am just not physically gifted. But few are. I am also (in the running context) not a greatness thrust upon me type. I choose to run, not because of some forced circumstance.
That leaves "achieve greatness." I think the vast majority of runners are in this category. And what that means to me is that my success or failure is in my own hands. It is a cliche to say that what you put in, you will get out. Thus even though every run isn't through fields of blooming sunflowers overlooking the ocean in Carmel, every run builds to something else. Builds the base, the endurance the speed, the physical power to achieve the things I want to achieve. And my goals as to what I want to achieve are pretty undefined. Yes I would like to BQ at some point. But for me that means a 3:20 marathon. That will be hard, and I doubt I can hit this year; perhaps next if I have two solid years. For me, though, in 3 years the BQ timegoes to 3:30, which is more realistic. But am I running to BQ? No. I run because it makes me feel strong and confident.
I haven't written the "Why I run" column or post yet, despite blogging for 2 years. And honestly, those posts are my favorite posts when I see a new blog. I haven't done it because it seems so personal and so singular that I am not sure anyone would care. In a nutshell, I was never much of an athlete, but I could always run long distance, but I never seriously pursued it in high school track or anything ever organized; my first organized race was a marathon.
So, all of this rambling serves as reason why I do the training, the workouts, the treadmill, the late nights. It is to help me reach my greatness, whatever that may be.
*The actual quote from Shakespeare's Twelfth Night is: "Be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them."
That leaves "achieve greatness." I think the vast majority of runners are in this category. And what that means to me is that my success or failure is in my own hands. It is a cliche to say that what you put in, you will get out. Thus even though every run isn't through fields of blooming sunflowers overlooking the ocean in Carmel, every run builds to something else. Builds the base, the endurance the speed, the physical power to achieve the things I want to achieve. And my goals as to what I want to achieve are pretty undefined. Yes I would like to BQ at some point. But for me that means a 3:20 marathon. That will be hard, and I doubt I can hit this year; perhaps next if I have two solid years. For me, though, in 3 years the BQ timegoes to 3:30, which is more realistic. But am I running to BQ? No. I run because it makes me feel strong and confident.
I haven't written the "Why I run" column or post yet, despite blogging for 2 years. And honestly, those posts are my favorite posts when I see a new blog. I haven't done it because it seems so personal and so singular that I am not sure anyone would care. In a nutshell, I was never much of an athlete, but I could always run long distance, but I never seriously pursued it in high school track or anything ever organized; my first organized race was a marathon.
So, all of this rambling serves as reason why I do the training, the workouts, the treadmill, the late nights. It is to help me reach my greatness, whatever that may be.
*The actual quote from Shakespeare's Twelfth Night is: "Be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them."
Thursday, March 4, 2010
The Summer Runner and Winter Treadmills
More on treadmills based on yesterday's post and today's New York Times. First, I am blown away with and impressed by my comments and the dialog. Thanks, and it made me feel both better and intrigued. I should be clear: I don't object to the treadmill in general, nor do I hate my "dreadmill." In fact, because of my schedule, a majority of my miles are on the mill, but I usually at a gym at a normal hour. I find treadmill workouts easier to schedule, regulate and complete. Intervals on a treadmill are both harder and easier; easier because the pace is set by the mill but harder because you cannot subtly slack off during the interval if you get tired. And for me, as an older guy, treadmill running is easier on my knees and feet. It is just that running at home in the dark was really depressing.
Apropos of my last post, today's NY Times has an article about the cold weather driving athletes indoors to train on treadmills and bike trainers. In sum, the article concludes they are a substitute, but not a perfect one. Training under real conditions is better. It repeats the old saw that running on a treadmill is easier because of a lack of wind resistance. I have read a lot about treadmill training, and is not so clear. (An excellent summary of the effect of the wind resistance on oxygen consumption and the lack of meaningful difference in oxygen consumption between outdoor running and treadmills is here.)
After an injury several years ago, I researched alot about treadmill running when I was mystified why I ran significantly faster outdoors than I did on a treadmill. First, I discovered my treadmill had an incline. Ok, that was easy. But I still ran faster, further and at a lower heart rate outdoors than on my gym's treadmill. How could that be possible? Particularly given the oft-repeated mantra that treadmill running is easier because of a lack of wind resistance.
In sum, what I found is that unless you run really fast (sub 5:20/mile), the effect from lack of wind resistance from forward motion is negligible. In the Times article, note that the doctor quoted on this issue says that the lack of wind resistance, coupled with a headwind, produces a significant difference. That headwind of course makes a huge difference. And also, if there is a headwind, presumably the course one runs is some kind of a loop, and thus, there will be a tailwind for an equal amount of time, and the net "wind effect" should be zero.
When I was injured, my physical therapists and doctors also advised against setting the treadmill at a steady incline. In sum, that steady incline produces an awkward landing position for the foot that is repeated over many strides. Outdoors, the foot almost never lands in the same position repeatedly even when running on an incline. So the advice was, if I ran at an incline on the treadmill, make sure to mix it up.
And another difference I have read about (but can't find a link for anymore) is that running on a treadmill also eliminates the natural forward body momentum from running. Thus, when running on a treadmill, the weight of the body is supported by the body itself and the body's relative forward momentum is less. In other words, your body is supporting its weight and gets no benefit from the forward momentum generated by running outdoors. The effect of this "lack of momentum" differs for each runner based on speed, gait and running style. For me, because of my, umm, height (and maybe weight) this momentum loss was huge.
The Times article cites to a study that indicates runners run 11.5% faster on a treadmill. That surprised me. After googling some, I am guessing this is the cited study (the abstract anyway). Done at the Royal Veterinary College, on an equine treadmill and measured acceleration and deceleration. I am no scientist, but this doesn't seem to really be on point.
One thing I completely agree with the Times article is that running outdoors works more muscles in subtler ways. Every time I go run outside after a lengthy treadmill season I notice how sore my ankles, calves and shins are. I notice it most in my ankles. That comes from the ankle stabilizing the foot for the subtle differences in landing position for each stride -- something not present on a treadmill.
In any event, I was inspired by the many commenter's dedication to outdoor running even in the depths of winter. And because last week I quoted Thomas Paine, that dedication to soldiering on in winter, not just summer reminded me of his most famous quote:
Apropos of my last post, today's NY Times has an article about the cold weather driving athletes indoors to train on treadmills and bike trainers. In sum, the article concludes they are a substitute, but not a perfect one. Training under real conditions is better. It repeats the old saw that running on a treadmill is easier because of a lack of wind resistance. I have read a lot about treadmill training, and is not so clear. (An excellent summary of the effect of the wind resistance on oxygen consumption and the lack of meaningful difference in oxygen consumption between outdoor running and treadmills is here.)
After an injury several years ago, I researched alot about treadmill running when I was mystified why I ran significantly faster outdoors than I did on a treadmill. First, I discovered my treadmill had an incline. Ok, that was easy. But I still ran faster, further and at a lower heart rate outdoors than on my gym's treadmill. How could that be possible? Particularly given the oft-repeated mantra that treadmill running is easier because of a lack of wind resistance.
In sum, what I found is that unless you run really fast (sub 5:20/mile), the effect from lack of wind resistance from forward motion is negligible. In the Times article, note that the doctor quoted on this issue says that the lack of wind resistance, coupled with a headwind, produces a significant difference. That headwind of course makes a huge difference. And also, if there is a headwind, presumably the course one runs is some kind of a loop, and thus, there will be a tailwind for an equal amount of time, and the net "wind effect" should be zero.
When I was injured, my physical therapists and doctors also advised against setting the treadmill at a steady incline. In sum, that steady incline produces an awkward landing position for the foot that is repeated over many strides. Outdoors, the foot almost never lands in the same position repeatedly even when running on an incline. So the advice was, if I ran at an incline on the treadmill, make sure to mix it up.
And another difference I have read about (but can't find a link for anymore) is that running on a treadmill also eliminates the natural forward body momentum from running. Thus, when running on a treadmill, the weight of the body is supported by the body itself and the body's relative forward momentum is less. In other words, your body is supporting its weight and gets no benefit from the forward momentum generated by running outdoors. The effect of this "lack of momentum" differs for each runner based on speed, gait and running style. For me, because of my, umm, height (and maybe weight) this momentum loss was huge.
The Times article cites to a study that indicates runners run 11.5% faster on a treadmill. That surprised me. After googling some, I am guessing this is the cited study (the abstract anyway). Done at the Royal Veterinary College, on an equine treadmill and measured acceleration and deceleration. I am no scientist, but this doesn't seem to really be on point.
One thing I completely agree with the Times article is that running outdoors works more muscles in subtler ways. Every time I go run outside after a lengthy treadmill season I notice how sore my ankles, calves and shins are. I notice it most in my ankles. That comes from the ankle stabilizing the foot for the subtle differences in landing position for each stride -- something not present on a treadmill.
In any event, I was inspired by the many commenter's dedication to outdoor running even in the depths of winter. And because last week I quoted Thomas Paine, that dedication to soldiering on in winter, not just summer reminded me of his most famous quote:
"These are the times that try men's souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands by it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman."Admittedly, I don't think Paine was addressing people who ran on treadmills in the winter, but I wanted to tip my hat to those of you who ran outdoors and not just as a "summer runner."
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Snow Patrol
Stuck in New York and waiting for another big snowstorm tomorrow! When will this madness end? It has been a crazy winter with no let up since December.
Because of the frozen tundra like conditions, I've been running on the treadmill a lot. Which means a lot of Olympics watching. I have become strangely interested in curling, of all things. I think CNBC has been turned into the curling channel!
Given the treadmill running, not a lot if interesting runs or running insights. I have been obsessing about heart rates, maybe because that is the only feedback I really get from a treadmill run.
I am also not really training for anything. The goal is to get in shape now, and run my first serious race in late March, a 15K (9.3 miles) in Central Park. That should be a good benchmark. Then over the next several months leading up to July 4, running in the spring races for the NYRR, just like last year.
I made some good food over the weekend also. Sole Meuniere (which turned out to be flounder pan fried in butter) and then a cheese and panko coated chicken breast on Sunday night. One thing I have become obsessed with is Rick's Picks ( a pickle company) and their "mean beans" -- green beans pickled, with garlic and wasabi. They are tremendous, and healthy too. I ate a whole jar last Saturday. And tonight I made a salad nicoise with the pickled green beans -- yummy.
Finally, a motivation quote (something I haven't posted in a while):
"The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly; it is dearness only that gives everything its value. I love the man that can smile in trouble, that can gather strength from distress and grow brave by reflection. Tis the business of little minds to shrink, but he whose heart is firm, and whose conscience approves his conduct, will pursue his principles unto death"
Thomas Paine
Because of the frozen tundra like conditions, I've been running on the treadmill a lot. Which means a lot of Olympics watching. I have become strangely interested in curling, of all things. I think CNBC has been turned into the curling channel!
Given the treadmill running, not a lot if interesting runs or running insights. I have been obsessing about heart rates, maybe because that is the only feedback I really get from a treadmill run.
I am also not really training for anything. The goal is to get in shape now, and run my first serious race in late March, a 15K (9.3 miles) in Central Park. That should be a good benchmark. Then over the next several months leading up to July 4, running in the spring races for the NYRR, just like last year.
I made some good food over the weekend also. Sole Meuniere (which turned out to be flounder pan fried in butter) and then a cheese and panko coated chicken breast on Sunday night. One thing I have become obsessed with is Rick's Picks ( a pickle company) and their "mean beans" -- green beans pickled, with garlic and wasabi. They are tremendous, and healthy too. I ate a whole jar last Saturday. And tonight I made a salad nicoise with the pickled green beans -- yummy.
Finally, a motivation quote (something I haven't posted in a while):
"The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly; it is dearness only that gives everything its value. I love the man that can smile in trouble, that can gather strength from distress and grow brave by reflection. Tis the business of little minds to shrink, but he whose heart is firm, and whose conscience approves his conduct, will pursue his principles unto death"
Thomas Paine
Monday, February 22, 2010
U-S-A! And I am a Runner
Great hockey game last night! I can still remember where I was in 1980 (12 years old -- in 6th grade) when I heard that the US had beaten the Russians in Lake Placid. It was a coldish day and I was outside playing football and heard of the looming upset (there was no live TV of the game). I can also remember watching the game, but it really was anticlimactic in that I knew the US won at the end. Last night was nothing like that, but it was the biggest US hockey win in years, and a great game to boot.
It got me thinking about hockey and running again. This is a long story, so bear with me. On Sunday, it was my weekend to usher at our church -- both the early and late services. So, I was at our church from 8 until 12 noon, a long time (for me anyway; I only do it once a year). Our church is rather picturesque, and sits on a hill at the crossroads of town. It is hard to imagine running through my town and not passing by. This intersection is on my running route, and sits at the intersection of the village school, the library, town hall, and our church.
Anyway, Sunday morning was a pleasant morning -- about 30 degrees and sunny, with a little wind. Just cold enough not to want to run and to make it a cold trudge. So I didn't run that morning. And given it was the last day of our first winter break, not a very busy day at church, so I had a lot of time to watch outside. And there was a constant stream of runners. Men and women. Some fast, some slow. Some dressed warmly, others in shorts. It made me realize that there is just a large community of people out there doing what we do. And I am part of it. I always feel self conscious when running. I have told any number of people that, in a race, I am always the person people say "I cant believe I got beat by that guy!" I battle with my weight and am no one's picture of a svelte runner.* Anyway, very often I feel awkward and self conscious gearing up and running.
But watching the parade of people go by on Sunday, I realized, Hey I do this too. I probably do it faster, but I didn't run today, so they have me beat. But I am a runner too. "I am a runner!"
It reminded me of the promotional video they show at the New York Ranger hockey games: "I am a Ranger!" Below I have embedded the video. It starts slow, but at about 0:59, it picks up and in closing a number of average fans say "I am a Ranger."** The fans and the players are the team. Just like us runners: all of us are part of being runners, whatever our speed or look or training.
I have previously spoken of my love of hockey even though I can't skate 20 feet. But after watching this video, I want to go out and run or skate or climb a mountain!
*This of course will all change in next two months -- I'll be back to 180 soon. I promise, even though I had a debacle for a diet weekend. But come spring, I'll have that BMI under 25 in no time.
** After this video played at a game I went to with my then 7 year daughter (1st grade) , she asked me "Am I a Ranger?" I said Absolutely! And she jumped up and down like she had won the lottery.
It got me thinking about hockey and running again. This is a long story, so bear with me. On Sunday, it was my weekend to usher at our church -- both the early and late services. So, I was at our church from 8 until 12 noon, a long time (for me anyway; I only do it once a year). Our church is rather picturesque, and sits on a hill at the crossroads of town. It is hard to imagine running through my town and not passing by. This intersection is on my running route, and sits at the intersection of the village school, the library, town hall, and our church.
Anyway, Sunday morning was a pleasant morning -- about 30 degrees and sunny, with a little wind. Just cold enough not to want to run and to make it a cold trudge. So I didn't run that morning. And given it was the last day of our first winter break, not a very busy day at church, so I had a lot of time to watch outside. And there was a constant stream of runners. Men and women. Some fast, some slow. Some dressed warmly, others in shorts. It made me realize that there is just a large community of people out there doing what we do. And I am part of it. I always feel self conscious when running. I have told any number of people that, in a race, I am always the person people say "I cant believe I got beat by that guy!" I battle with my weight and am no one's picture of a svelte runner.* Anyway, very often I feel awkward and self conscious gearing up and running.
But watching the parade of people go by on Sunday, I realized, Hey I do this too. I probably do it faster, but I didn't run today, so they have me beat. But I am a runner too. "I am a runner!"
It reminded me of the promotional video they show at the New York Ranger hockey games: "I am a Ranger!" Below I have embedded the video. It starts slow, but at about 0:59, it picks up and in closing a number of average fans say "I am a Ranger."** The fans and the players are the team. Just like us runners: all of us are part of being runners, whatever our speed or look or training.
I have previously spoken of my love of hockey even though I can't skate 20 feet. But after watching this video, I want to go out and run or skate or climb a mountain!
*This of course will all change in next two months -- I'll be back to 180 soon. I promise, even though I had a debacle for a diet weekend. But come spring, I'll have that BMI under 25 in no time.
** After this video played at a game I went to with my then 7 year daughter (1st grade) , she asked me "Am I a Ranger?" I said Absolutely! And she jumped up and down like she had won the lottery.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Starting Up the Machine
It is a weird feeling coming off 2 months of sloth that were preceded by 9 months of exercise and diet. Last year about this time, I read a motivational article that said the three most dangerous words for an older athlete are "I used to..." And I understood. It is difficult to compare then and now. We only live in the now. The conclusion of the the article was not to say "I used to" but to say "I can..." To focus on the positive, and embrace what we are able to do now rather than in past times.
That thought occurred to me last night at the gym. It was not a terribly good workout, and I am sure that my heart rate data will depress me when I compare it to last fall. But, I was able to run 5 miles relatively easily at a relatively decent pace. And that was coming off a brief illness over the weekend and the aforementioned holiday sloth.
So rather than say "Wow, I used to be able to soooo much better than that" I actually felt good by saying to myself "I can run five miles at an 8:00 minute pace." And I am 42, with two young kids and a demanding job. Life, all in all can be pretty good if we look at what we can do and appreciate it.
Marathon 2010 training has begun. I enter this campaign coming off a year of running (sans two months of sloth). 30 pounds lighter, and I have begun training 6 weeks earlier. Yes, I need to drop some weight to get back to my fighting weight from last fall. And run to get back in shape and feel "tight."
But, I know I can do it.
That thought occurred to me last night at the gym. It was not a terribly good workout, and I am sure that my heart rate data will depress me when I compare it to last fall. But, I was able to run 5 miles relatively easily at a relatively decent pace. And that was coming off a brief illness over the weekend and the aforementioned holiday sloth.
So rather than say "Wow, I used to be able to soooo much better than that" I actually felt good by saying to myself "I can run five miles at an 8:00 minute pace." And I am 42, with two young kids and a demanding job. Life, all in all can be pretty good if we look at what we can do and appreciate it.
Marathon 2010 training has begun. I enter this campaign coming off a year of running (sans two months of sloth). 30 pounds lighter, and I have begun training 6 weeks earlier. Yes, I need to drop some weight to get back to my fighting weight from last fall. And run to get back in shape and feel "tight."
But, I know I can do it.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Awake
After a general malaise regarding training, I looked at my schedule: 7 weeks to go. Time to awake, get out there and do it. Had a great run tonight and feel strong. Getting close to the home stretch.
By the way, on late night TV I happened onto the end of "Queen -- Live at Wembley Stadium" that was recorded in 1986. Wow -- what a performance. I will blog about it later, but what an incredible experience that must have been.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Ranger Wrap-up
When I was a kid growing up in Texas, one thing we always did was listen to the Texas Rangers. The games were not on TV, and cable had not come our way, and the games were not on cable anyway. During the nights, in the car or at home, we listened to the game on the radio. Listening to a baseball game on the radio is a sublime and largely forgotten pleasure. Listening on the radio, you have to imagine the play at the plate or Nolan Ryan's fastball. Now, every game of almost any team is on TV, online, on SportsCenter and on TV -- no imagination required.
Anyways, at the end of each game, they would play this thunderous, rolling music and it was time for (cue music) .... the "Ranger Wrap-up" post game show. It was a replay of the calls of the key plays of the game, with an interview of the player of the game. (The player of the game received, I kid you not, a free pair of Haggar slacks for his trouble).
So, this is my Ranger Wrap Up for my completed training cycle. I really began this phase on St. Patricks Day and I knew the end point would be the day we were to leave on our summer vacation, July 2. I started by running the NYRR 8000 meter race (essentially 5 miles) on March 15. I ran that race to win $100 bet with a friend as to whether I would break 45 minutes. I won.
But on St. Patricks Day, three days later, a Tuesday, I got an email from the folks that take pictures at NYRR races that my race pictures were available. Now, I know I never look good in race pictures, and did not imagine that I would be a gazelle chewing up the course. But I was truly unprepared for my pictures. I looked terrible -- overweight, bloated, out of shape, you name it. At the time, my BMI was approximately 29.5, and I knew I needed to drop some weight, but my gosh those pictures! A picture says more than a thousand words, and in this case it was so true.
Thus, I got serious about a diet and to further that diet and fitness goals, my running. This blog really hasn't been about my diet because I find talking about a diet uninteresting, really; diets are also very individual. In contrast, one of the joys of running is the community it inspires in its participants. And the amount I learn from others and can give back. So, even thought I haven't discussed the diet much, it has been in the background. And on one level it has certainly affected my workouts and running -- nothing sucks worse than running when you are hungry or forgoing the post workout recovery drink or snack in the name of calorie counting.
As a way of keeping myself motivated and honest, I had sort of made a deal with myself to post on the blog the results of this three and a half month cycle, for better or for worse.
And I apologize in advance if this note seems self congratulatory, but I think I can say that, without a doubt, the last three months have been among the healthiest and most athletic of my life. In sum, I have lost 44 pounds, and about 6 inches off my waist; my BMI is now 23 or so. In the last three weeks, I have set PRs in 3 different distances (5 mile, 10K and half marathon), and all by a wide margin. And I didn't get hurt (aside from a few nasty blisters, one of which I have now on my second toe).
As I close this cycle of diet and training, these are my thoughts, reflections and ultimately, my successes and failures. I ran a half marathon under 1:40, which was very unexpected for me. My last two races predict a marathon time of 3:25 (but my goal for NY Marathon will be closer to 3:30, I think). My resting heart rate is as low as it has ever been -- around 50. My blood pressure has decreased and is now 100/70), and my cholesterol dropped to 163 (100/63). As for my heart rate on runs, it is hard to compare. Today I ran on the treadmill at about an 8:00 pace at 78% Max HR for 6 miles. When I started, I would run 4 miles at 9:30 pace at 85% max HR.
I think much of the progress over the short time period has to do with the fact that I have not been so out of shape for very long. Indeed, it was just 16 months ago that I started the blog and weighed only 10-15 pounds more than I do now and was running 1-2 per week. And I have run marathons before, so deep down my body had some running efficiency and training built in.
From the blogosphere, I have learned a great deal about training, motivation, nutrition and gear. I attribute the success of these months to dedication, commitment and a desire to be better for my family and myself. My gear, my shoes, my Garmin 405 and SportTracks have certainly helped in this cycle, not only to understand my body and training, but also to demonstrate the real progress I was making.
Ultimately, though it comes down to the Nike motto: Just Do it. No one cares about the excuse, and everyone can think of one, but in the end, just do it. And I am glad I did.
And now for vacation...
Friday, May 8, 2009
Nike Instant Karma commercial
I posted this TV spot awhile back, and went back and found out the clip had been stripped of audio. So here it is, with sound.
And here is my other favorite Nike Commercial too:
And to complete the trio of Nike greatness...
And here is my other favorite Nike Commercial too:
And to complete the trio of Nike greatness...
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Press On
Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education alone will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan "press on" has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race.
John Calvin Coolidge
Our plans miscarry because they have no aim. When a man does not know what harbor he is making for, no wind is the right wind.
John Calvin Coolidge
Our plans miscarry because they have no aim. When a man does not know what harbor he is making for, no wind is the right wind.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Zen, Winter, Life
"The obstacle is the path" -- Zen saying
Reminds me of the struggle to do it, to keep at it and life. And really not depressing
Thursday, October 30, 2008
DVD
Spirit of the Marathon is now available on DVD and Amazon on demand (which is pretty cool, btw). Anyway, it is inspirational, and reminds nonrunners of the many sacrifices made during training than translate into the ability to run on the big day.
And the speed of Daniel Njenga -- wow. How smooth, graceful and fast. Deena Kastor running 140 miles a week for years on end. I'm no mathematician but that is an average of 20 miles a day seven days a week.
My only complaint (admittedly parochial) is that my frame of reference is New York and NY marathon. And they are barely mentioned. And I was curious about the times of the various finishers, which they did not show.
And the speed of Daniel Njenga -- wow. How smooth, graceful and fast. Deena Kastor running 140 miles a week for years on end. I'm no mathematician but that is an average of 20 miles a day seven days a week.
My only complaint (admittedly parochial) is that my frame of reference is New York and NY marathon. And they are barely mentioned. And I was curious about the times of the various finishers, which they did not show.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
I am back agian. again. again
It is time for renewal and recommittment. Over last 9 months I have fallen off running wagon. I have added weight. I have fallen out of shape. But as I get older I have to keep it up. So for now back on the horse.
The longest journey is one that is never started. I better get going.
Third time is a charm, right?
The longest journey is one that is never started. I better get going.
Third time is a charm, right?
Friday, February 29, 2008
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Persistence
Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself. Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections, but instantly set about remedying them — every day begin the task anew.
— Saint Francis de Sales, bishop of Geneva (1567-1622)
Success consists of getting up just one more time than you fall.
— Oliver Goldsmith, English author (1730-1774)
— Saint Francis de Sales, bishop of Geneva (1567-1622)
Success consists of getting up just one more time than you fall.
— Oliver Goldsmith, English author (1730-1774)
Monday, February 11, 2008
Daily Quote
"It is very hard in the beginning to understand
that the whole idea is not to beat the other runner.
Eventually you learn that the competition is against
the little voice inside you that wants to quit."
George Sheehan
that the whole idea is not to beat the other runner.
Eventually you learn that the competition is against
the little voice inside you that wants to quit."
George Sheehan
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Why I Run
I try to run 20 or so miles a week. I like to run in the afternoon/early evening, and just can't seem to get up in the morning to do it. I am about 6'3" and weigh around 200 pounds. That is above my ideal weight by about 20 pounds, and I am trying to get back to around 180. I haven't seen 180 in many years, but I ought to be able to get there with work, dedication and commitment. And I want to be stronger, too.
All of that entails commitment to the goals I have set out. I intend to track my status and share my thoughts, fears, and hopefully joys as I both get to a lighter weight and improve as a runner. I currently run around 8 minute miles in training, and 7 minute miles in a 5 mile race. That is pretty fast for someone my size (I think) and motivates me because I can feel the potential for more.
In some ways running is both a goal and journey. Of course, there are goals -- run the next race, better time, stay fit. But running is also about the process, the joy, the journey and what that does for me. Running makes me happier. Sleep better. Drink less. Laugh harder. Enjoy life more. And those things are more important than any 10K time.
On the other hand, running also requires sacrifice, dedication and commitment. Runners World send out a quote of the day, and recently it sent this quote from Jesse Owens "We all have dreams in life. In order to make dreams come into reality, it takes an awful lot of dedication, self discipline, sacrifice and effort." And he is right. Whenever it is easier to blow off that run, take the easy path, it comes down to a choice, self-discipline. I don't always make the healthy choice, but I have to acknowledge the consequences of my choices. Hopefully, I make enough choices to achieve my goals. Stay healthy, be fit and stay strong.
Why am I here? Who am I?
New blog to reflect my thoughts on running, food, work and ultimately how that affects my life.
Comments are appreciated and indeed are the one way I know people read this, like this, learn from this. It is also how I learn from this.
Over time I will post workouts, thoughts, goals, frustrations, and, hopefully, successes.
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