Well after a few months of a lulu shopping hiatus I was able to splurge on a Chariot Cougar jogging/cycling stroller. I think this is a really great investment since it can be used year round and is totally enclosed, can be adapted to a bicycle, jogging or hiking and it has a high resale value. I'm sort of wondering why I didn't do this earlier after spending an entire 14 months of depending on others to get out for my runs. I did "need" and enjoy my me time away from the kids on my runs but at least now I can use this for my weekday training runs and get my alone runs in on the weekends.
I've been really lazy this past month with my running but I think I was feeling a little burnt out at struggling to fit in training runs in for my half marathon last month. It wasn't so much the amount of running I was doing but it was such a chore to find ways to squeeze my runs in based on everyone else's schedules. It was certainly doable, it was just a big chore and there were times when I felt really burdened by my training. I'm really looking forward to the new challenge of learning to run while pushing a heavy stroller and getting some upper body work in as well. This should be just the spark I need to re ignite my running. I think this is as good a challenge as training for a half marathon and may possibly make me a faster runner.
I've been really lazy this past month with my running but I think I was feeling a little burnt out at struggling to fit in training runs in for my half marathon last month. It wasn't so much the amount of running I was doing but it was such a chore to find ways to squeeze my runs in based on everyone else's schedules. It was certainly doable, it was just a big chore and there were times when I felt really burdened by my training. I'm really looking forward to the new challenge of learning to run while pushing a heavy stroller and getting some upper body work in as well. This should be just the spark I need to re ignite my running. I think this is as good a challenge as training for a half marathon and may possibly make me a faster runner.
Do any of you have running tips and techniques for me running with a double jogging stroller?
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This weeks training had some highs and lows for me. I started week 2 of the Runners World Program that a friend gave me. She gave me both the Runners World version and one that a physio adapted for her sister who was running with a persnickety knee issue. So I have the option of floating between the two depending on how I'm doing since both programs seem to progress the same amount from week to week, one is just less intense then the other. I also took the suggestions of helpful readers on my last 'How It's Going' post and printed off the McMillan Pace Calculator to guide me with my pace. We discovered from my last long run that my calorie burn was super high on my long run (800 cals) and after a bit of digging realized that it was because I was running at max pace the entire run. So by the end of 4 miles I was spent.
This weeks long run was 5 miles run at my 'LSD' pace (thanks to the pace calucator) and I burned a more reasonable 536 calories with an elevation gain of 308. I found with the slower pace I was able to run farther but also enjoy my run much more. I also stole my husbands ipod for this run and think I may start using my own for my long runs. He has much better taste in music then I do though (Queen, Bruce Springsteen, Dire Straits) so I may just keep taking his or alternating ipods to keep it fresh. Usually I'm anti ipod for running outdoors since I find I really become dependent on the device to keep me distracted from the running and then after a while I can't go without it. I'm also always afraid of getting hit by a car. Since I'm doing half marathon training and will be going on 2 hour + long runs I may find it too hard to keep myself entertained with stream of consciousness thinking alone so I think I just need to relax my rules about ipod free running.
My low this week was last nights run. My legs have been feeling like lead since my long run and also I had been up almost all night the night before (teething cranky baby, what else is new) and probably also slightly dehydrated so when I hopped on to the treadmill to do my short 3 mile run I had to jump off after just before 2 miles. I was so tired and thirsty that I could not continue for even a minute more. It was so discouraging because every time that happens I feel like I'll not be able to complete my next long run either and i'll just regress and go back to zero and be a total failure. So now I'm dreading Saturdays 4 mile run and almost feel like I should do a 1 mile run tonight to make up for my missed mile yesterday. Yes, I am OCD about the numbers. I am taking tonight off though because I'd rather have fresher legs tomorrow and do a 4 mile run then to finish the week off with a 1 mile run. That just figures though, I complete my longest run the other day and also have one bad run and at the end of the week the one I'm left thinking about was last nights crap run.
This weeks long run was 5 miles run at my 'LSD' pace (thanks to the pace calucator) and I burned a more reasonable 536 calories with an elevation gain of 308. I found with the slower pace I was able to run farther but also enjoy my run much more. I also stole my husbands ipod for this run and think I may start using my own for my long runs. He has much better taste in music then I do though (Queen, Bruce Springsteen, Dire Straits) so I may just keep taking his or alternating ipods to keep it fresh. Usually I'm anti ipod for running outdoors since I find I really become dependent on the device to keep me distracted from the running and then after a while I can't go without it. I'm also always afraid of getting hit by a car. Since I'm doing half marathon training and will be going on 2 hour + long runs I may find it too hard to keep myself entertained with stream of consciousness thinking alone so I think I just need to relax my rules about ipod free running.
My low this week was last nights run. My legs have been feeling like lead since my long run and also I had been up almost all night the night before (teething cranky baby, what else is new) and probably also slightly dehydrated so when I hopped on to the treadmill to do my short 3 mile run I had to jump off after just before 2 miles. I was so tired and thirsty that I could not continue for even a minute more. It was so discouraging because every time that happens I feel like I'll not be able to complete my next long run either and i'll just regress and go back to zero and be a total failure. So now I'm dreading Saturdays 4 mile run and almost feel like I should do a 1 mile run tonight to make up for my missed mile yesterday. Yes, I am OCD about the numbers. I am taking tonight off though because I'd rather have fresher legs tomorrow and do a 4 mile run then to finish the week off with a 1 mile run. That just figures though, I complete my longest run the other day and also have one bad run and at the end of the week the one I'm left thinking about was last nights crap run.
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| wish these were my wheels |
I wrote about my plan to start training for the BMO Half Marathon over here (haven't committed to one plan yet but I've started on the Runners World Intermediate for now and may frankenstein a few together) and thought I'd update you a bit on how it's going. Last weekend I set out with a new rout from my usual. I live near a very dense 174 hectar urban forest called Mundy Park and I've run the trails closest to my house and taken cut thru paths and explored little mini trails before but it's always seemed impossible to run all the way around the park for some reason. It's 4 miles all the way around which is not a huge distance for me, I've run 4 miles on different routs before. For some reason those 4 miles intimidated me because once you get to the half way point you have no choice but to continue on and there is no easy rout you can cut through to make your run shorter. Coquitlam is known for bear sitings and I avoid going deep into forested areas for that reason. And then there are also the monstrous hills that I wont allow myself to walk.
My first exploration out onto this new rout last week met me with a huge strip of black ice about 7 minutes out in which I had a magnificent and almost graceful fall landing on my left hip. Let me tell you, I'm not light. I knew it was bad when I couldn't figure out how I ended up facing the other direction. I called my husband and told him about my fall and that I would attempt walking home. He offered to pick me up but I didn't want him to load the kids up in the car and so I walked home, took Advil and inspected my developing bruise. It was red and very puffy and large and over the next days turned a few different shades of black and blue. The worst part was probably my left shoulder the next day which bared some of my body weight when I landed. I've been suffering residual aches and pains here and there over the past week but I would say I'm mostly healed up.
Wednesday I decided to go a little bit further out and run 1 1/2 miles out and turn around and run back. It was supposed to be a 3 mile run but I was feeling so great I ended up at the 2 mile point and still feeling like I had lots of fuel in my engine so I continued on and committed to running a 4 miler around the park. I'm so glad I did that because it ended up being probably my nicest run ever. Not my fastest, my last mile was snail pace, but it was invigorating to explore an unknown rout and tackle mean hills My total elevation gain for that run was 285 ft and I burned 800 calories!! I really felt sore last night and had to pop some tylenol to let me get some sleep but I can't wait to get out on that rout again on Saturday. Tonight will be a short treadmill run and it will pale in comparison but i'll have my TV to keep me company.
My last run was also the first time I used the heart rate monitor on my Garmin 110 and I was a little bit OCD about checking it, especially on the hills. It was good that it provided me with a distraction during the hills but I think I prefer using the heart rate monitor only once a week and only to see serial changes over a period of time since I don't really train within any heart rate parameter.
My first exploration out onto this new rout last week met me with a huge strip of black ice about 7 minutes out in which I had a magnificent and almost graceful fall landing on my left hip. Let me tell you, I'm not light. I knew it was bad when I couldn't figure out how I ended up facing the other direction. I called my husband and told him about my fall and that I would attempt walking home. He offered to pick me up but I didn't want him to load the kids up in the car and so I walked home, took Advil and inspected my developing bruise. It was red and very puffy and large and over the next days turned a few different shades of black and blue. The worst part was probably my left shoulder the next day which bared some of my body weight when I landed. I've been suffering residual aches and pains here and there over the past week but I would say I'm mostly healed up.
Wednesday I decided to go a little bit further out and run 1 1/2 miles out and turn around and run back. It was supposed to be a 3 mile run but I was feeling so great I ended up at the 2 mile point and still feeling like I had lots of fuel in my engine so I continued on and committed to running a 4 miler around the park. I'm so glad I did that because it ended up being probably my nicest run ever. Not my fastest, my last mile was snail pace, but it was invigorating to explore an unknown rout and tackle mean hills My total elevation gain for that run was 285 ft and I burned 800 calories!! I really felt sore last night and had to pop some tylenol to let me get some sleep but I can't wait to get out on that rout again on Saturday. Tonight will be a short treadmill run and it will pale in comparison but i'll have my TV to keep me company.
My last run was also the first time I used the heart rate monitor on my Garmin 110 and I was a little bit OCD about checking it, especially on the hills. It was good that it provided me with a distraction during the hills but I think I prefer using the heart rate monitor only once a week and only to see serial changes over a period of time since I don't really train within any heart rate parameter.
**I wrote this 5 7 days ago and it's taken me this long to post!
I've been really procrastinating about putting this in writing on my blog and potentially being held accountable but I'm sharing anyways because this goal has me pretty excited, and I think being excited about it means I have to do it.
I've decided to start a training plan in February for a half marathon. The BMO Half Marathon on May 1st to be exact. I'm so nervous about it because although I consider myself a runner, I am not a racer. Currently I can easily do 7-8km (4-5mi) so I think that means I can stretch myself with training into 13.1 miles without injuring myself or quitting half way. My goal is simply to do the training consistently and methodically just how I did the learn to run training program that got me to 8km and then to run the BMO half marathon. 8km seemed daunting to me back in April when I started seriously running after the birth of my daughter and yet here I am. I think I'm not just afraid of the distance but also because it's my first race and it's something completely unknown to me. Also, I don't always have control over when I get to go out for runs so I'm a bit worried about getting 4 runs in a week and keeping up with the training plan.
The past year I've been very consistent with my running with the exception of December when I took the month off to have surgery. Really I chose December as the time to have minor surgery because I was already starting to feel unmotivated (check out this Runners World article) so I took advantage of my lack of motivation to regroup, rest and plan where I wanted to go with my running. It's so hard to stay motivated when you're not building anymore and stretching your abilities and it's dark and gloomy out. There are only so many months you can go with doing the same distances, speed and hills without getting bored. Since Christmas I've been running again and trying to regain my base which quickly deteriorated over the holidays and I'm feeling so invigorated (and sore). I've also started taking vitamin D which I really should have been doing all along to combat stress and to deal with the dark Wetcoast weather that made me feel like a zombie.
I'll keep you all posted with my training and how it's going. I'm currently looking at 3 different training plans (Running Room, Hal Higdon, Runners World) which I'll start sometime between next week and February 1st, depending on which one I choose. Really, I'm just looking to complete the distance and not be the last person across the finish line since this is my first race so I think I'll go with the most conservative plan. If you racers out there have any words of wisdom to share with me about training or racing I'd love to hear it. In the meantime, I've picked up this book 'Run Like A Mother' to give me inspiration along the way so I don't cop out and take the path of least resistance of just staying home when I feel overwhelmed with ma-thatic excuses.
I will run the BMO Half Marathon in May 2011
I've decided to start a training plan in February for a half marathon. The BMO Half Marathon on May 1st to be exact. I'm so nervous about it because although I consider myself a runner, I am not a racer. Currently I can easily do 7-8km (4-5mi) so I think that means I can stretch myself with training into 13.1 miles without injuring myself or quitting half way. My goal is simply to do the training consistently and methodically just how I did the learn to run training program that got me to 8km and then to run the BMO half marathon. 8km seemed daunting to me back in April when I started seriously running after the birth of my daughter and yet here I am. I think I'm not just afraid of the distance but also because it's my first race and it's something completely unknown to me. Also, I don't always have control over when I get to go out for runs so I'm a bit worried about getting 4 runs in a week and keeping up with the training plan.
The past year I've been very consistent with my running with the exception of December when I took the month off to have surgery. Really I chose December as the time to have minor surgery because I was already starting to feel unmotivated (check out this Runners World article) so I took advantage of my lack of motivation to regroup, rest and plan where I wanted to go with my running. It's so hard to stay motivated when you're not building anymore and stretching your abilities and it's dark and gloomy out. There are only so many months you can go with doing the same distances, speed and hills without getting bored. Since Christmas I've been running again and trying to regain my base which quickly deteriorated over the holidays and I'm feeling so invigorated (and sore). I've also started taking vitamin D which I really should have been doing all along to combat stress and to deal with the dark Wetcoast weather that made me feel like a zombie.
I'll keep you all posted with my training and how it's going. I'm currently looking at 3 different training plans (Running Room, Hal Higdon, Runners World) which I'll start sometime between next week and February 1st, depending on which one I choose. Really, I'm just looking to complete the distance and not be the last person across the finish line since this is my first race so I think I'll go with the most conservative plan. If you racers out there have any words of wisdom to share with me about training or racing I'd love to hear it. In the meantime, I've picked up this book 'Run Like A Mother' to give me inspiration along the way so I don't cop out and take the path of least resistance of just staying home when I feel overwhelmed with ma-thatic excuses.
Lift Your Spirits Jacket and Run: Ambition Tights (both Brushed Power Luxtreme)
Rejuvenate Jacket
Description
- In the dead of winter, this calf-length, mid-rise run crop is one you can truly feel ambitious in
- Made of 4-way stretch Brushed power luxtreme™ for 'no bounce' muscle support, quick drying wicking capabilities & brushed back for added warmth!
- Drawstring & elastic for comfortable support
- Hidden front waist pockets for quick-access to Gels
- Back zipper pocket for secure storage
- Chafe resistant - flat seamed
Description
- Don't lose your ambition in cold weather while wearing this cozy mid-rise winter run tight!
- Made of 4-way stretch Brushed power luxtreme™ for 'no bounce' muscle support, quick drying wicking capabilities & brushed back for added warmth!
- Drawstring & elastic for comfortable support
- Hidden front waist pockets for quick-access to Gels
- Back zipper pocket for secure storage
- Chafe resistant - flat seamed
Hustle Crop ('Run' Not in the name)
Description
- Not a new dance step, more like your new favourite calf-length crop!
- Made of 4-way stretch power luxtreme™ for 'no bounce' muscle support & quick drying, wicking capabilities
- Low-rise waistband with drawstring & elastic for support
- Body-shaping flatlocked seams reduce abrasion
- Close fitting zipper pockets create jiggle-free storage
- Reflective for increased low-light visibility
- Quick-access gel pockets
I actually really like Persimmons in the Swiftly Material.
Wish Swiftly SS (also comes in LS)
Swiftly Haze
Swiftly Very Violet
I'm loving this Black Scoop Neck Tank. I know, how totally boring of me. I've been waiting and waiting for a Scoop Neck Tank to buy but I've been wanting one to be all one color so it's the shape of the tank that stands out and not so much the color or print because I love the neckline. Wish was nice but this is more versatile. This will be my very first Scoop Neck Tank if I can manage to get my hands on this one. Also, I'm loving the lime, charcoal and black Combo. A few posts down I mention the Cuddle Up is coming in Coal/Lime but I admit when I first heard that I wondered because I hadn't heard or seen any mention of Lime being introduced.
Scoop Neck in Haze/Coal - Well I like this one too but I prefer the black on I think
Scoop Neck- Poncho Stripe
Haze Scuba
Snorkel Scuba This one is also labeled Haze but it looks quite different from the picture above. I feel that maybe this one is Snorkel and maybe mislabelled? There are Snorkel items coming soon so it wouldn't surprise me.
Run Speed Shorts (top two pictures) and Groovy Run Shorts. I kinda like this retro print. I've been considering getting some shorts for my late night treadmill runs so these may be the ticket.
More Static Persimmon. I hate it but I'm weirdly attracted to it.
Wish Swiftly SS (also comes in LS)
Swiftly Haze
Swiftly Very Violet
I'm loving this Black Scoop Neck Tank. I know, how totally boring of me. I've been waiting and waiting for a Scoop Neck Tank to buy but I've been wanting one to be all one color so it's the shape of the tank that stands out and not so much the color or print because I love the neckline. Wish was nice but this is more versatile. This will be my very first Scoop Neck Tank if I can manage to get my hands on this one. Also, I'm loving the lime, charcoal and black Combo. A few posts down I mention the Cuddle Up is coming in Coal/Lime but I admit when I first heard that I wondered because I hadn't heard or seen any mention of Lime being introduced.
Scoop Neck in Haze/Coal - Well I like this one too but I prefer the black on I think
Scoop Neck- Poncho StripeHaze Scuba
Run Speed Shorts (top two pictures) and Groovy Run Shorts. I kinda like this retro print. I've been considering getting some shorts for my late night treadmill runs so these may be the ticket.
More Static Persimmon. I hate it but I'm weirdly attracted to it.
yet another time pressed evening requiring me to hop on my treadmill instead of gearing up to go out into the cold for a run this evening. I really hate treadmill running and would so much rather be outside enjoying the outdoors and seeing the distance I cover instead of just reading the numbers on the display. I find it so hard to maintain my usual distance on the treadmill for some reason even though it's supposedly less effort expenditure. I get way hotter then I do outside and I it's just so easy to hop right off when I've had enough where as outside, if I've run 3.5km's out then I need to run that same distance back in order to get home. And why bother walking it if I can just get home faster by running. I think sometimes the treadmill is harder because I'm maintaining pace where as outside I'm constantly adjusting my pace as I go up and down hills.
If I look on the bright side of todays run, I did complete 4 miles (she's an american treadmill) and I got to listen to music during my run which I never usually do when I run outside, and I got to watch a little bit of TV. Because I have a treadmill in my basement I get my very own space away from the kiddies and I can shamelessly run in my pima cotton Modern Racerback (eeek! not moisture wicking) and when I get overheated I can just wear my Flow Y and not worry about anyone seeing my jiggly bits. I got this AFG 5.0 Treadmill back in April as a post baby push present to myself and she's really been neglected until now. I've run on her maybe 10 times since I got her but I tend to run outdoors rain or shine. This is a pretty excellent treadmill for a home use version if your thinking about maybe getting one. This treadmill has an ipod docking station and speakers, an orthotic belt (cushioning) and a wider and longer belt then average and is super quite which is good when the kids are sleeping. It also came with a Polar wireless heart rate monitor which is really a great thing to use once in a while. The only downside of this treadmill is that it takes a little while to speed up to your selected pace so I just tag on a few extra seconds at the end to make up the difference but that's just my little neurotic behavior. I think most runners are a little bit neurotic like that.
Now that I safely have my run behind me and the kids are asleep finally I'm diving head first into a bowl of Halloween candy with abandon as I've had a rough day and I've earned the reward.
If I look on the bright side of todays run, I did complete 4 miles (she's an american treadmill) and I got to listen to music during my run which I never usually do when I run outside, and I got to watch a little bit of TV. Because I have a treadmill in my basement I get my very own space away from the kiddies and I can shamelessly run in my pima cotton Modern Racerback (eeek! not moisture wicking) and when I get overheated I can just wear my Flow Y and not worry about anyone seeing my jiggly bits. I got this AFG 5.0 Treadmill back in April as a post baby push present to myself and she's really been neglected until now. I've run on her maybe 10 times since I got her but I tend to run outdoors rain or shine. This is a pretty excellent treadmill for a home use version if your thinking about maybe getting one. This treadmill has an ipod docking station and speakers, an orthotic belt (cushioning) and a wider and longer belt then average and is super quite which is good when the kids are sleeping. It also came with a Polar wireless heart rate monitor which is really a great thing to use once in a while. The only downside of this treadmill is that it takes a little while to speed up to your selected pace so I just tag on a few extra seconds at the end to make up the difference but that's just my little neurotic behavior. I think most runners are a little bit neurotic like that.
Now that I safely have my run behind me and the kids are asleep finally I'm diving head first into a bowl of Halloween candy with abandon as I've had a rough day and I've earned the reward.
It's been so hard keeping my motivation up to run these last few weeks as my babysitting hasn't been available during the day anymore and my husband has been coming home after dark. On good days it's been pouring rain which doesn't make a run very enticing when your already dragging your feet around and hate using the dreadmill. So it's been quite tough keeping up with my 7ishkm runs on a regular basis. Last week I decided to split my runs up a bit more and do 2 longer runs during daylight hours and 2-3 short night time weekday runs instead of always pushing myself to do all longer runs all the time. Today was my first run of the week after having taken a bit of a hiatis. I managed to run a very pleasant (slow) uphill/flat run for 50 minutes and it was quite enjoyable. It was 10* out tonight and clear so I wore my Inspire Pullover (lilac) over a Cool Racerback (Pig Pink) and my Inspire Crops (Black/Lolo). Since I find the reflective features on most Lululemon items not nearly enough (especially compared to other night runners) for nightime running I have purchased some reflective snap bracelets that I can wear around my ankles or wrists. I wore them around my ankles but once I hit the shower after my run I realized what a bad place that was to wear them since I felt a burning sting when the water hit me were they caused major chafing. Other then that my run was exactly what I needed it to be in order to recharge and refocus my running for the coming cold and dark evening runs. Running at night was not so bad tonight because I kept to very well lit areas with heavy traffic and just ran extra loops at the end when I needed to run the clock. I felt much more at ease in the dark tonight for some reason. Also, it was quite pretty to see all of the houses in my area decorated for Halloween with spooky things and bright orange lights. I think I just need to rethink my hangup of night running and appreciate the different things I get to see on these evening runs that I would never normally get to see during the day.
*sorry, couldn't find a night running picture as nice as this day time one.
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| Lululemon Flickr Album |
This week, as I mentioned here has been a total nightmare and I've had the worst time getting out for a run. Mostly because I've been paranoid about feeling this cold coming on (still hasn't come on) and I've been over tired and not at all motivated after caring for a sick toddler and a teething/growthspurting 6 month old. I actually haven't even left the house to go Lulu browsing (ok shopping) which goes to show how blah I've been. I've also eaten horribly all week as a comfort for my troubles and have put in zero effort into dinner. What I've needed the most to make myself feel better is a run and that was the first thing on my list that got neglected. Finally today I got out for a run (last one was Sunday!!!) and expected to only be out for 30 minutes. Well, I had a terrific run and was out for 60 minutes just enjoying the time away and the space to have 60 minutes of stream of consciousness uninterrupted thinking. Man, I now feel tired as before, and my back is still achy but my mind is feeling like a million bucks right now. I wore my lovely Run: Spirit Pullover out for a run finally and although it was too warm for it, it made me feel fast. I highly recommend running (or your workout of preference) to all moms. It's just the best way to feel better after a really tough day of giving, giving, giving. My new rule is that even if I'm feeling ick I need to go out and run. I don't have to put the full time in but I do need to have my 4 days (at least) of getting out there. 10 minutes or 60 minutes doesn't matter as long as I get out and just run.
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| Great picture from todays Lululemon blog |
The Flow and Go Tank in Black and White. I think despite the little glitches with this tank (complicated to put on and slightly tight at the neck strap) this tank is a hit. Very flattering and cute on.
Run: Reflection Pullover in Black. This Black one is on my radar. The price is nice at $88 and will be even nicer if it goes to loot.
Personal Best SS. I have this one in Senorita Pink and I'm really glad I exchanged my lolo one for the Senorita Pink because after I wore it around for a while I found I really liked the bright flirty-ness of it. The Lolo is so pretty in this as well but I have too much Lolo purple (Stride, Modern, Static CRB and Swiftly). I made sure to get different fabrics of Lolo as they all look very, very different from each other but I still needed something to go with Lolo.
Run: Reflection Pullover in Black. This Black one is on my radar. The price is nice at $88 and will be even nicer if it goes to loot.
Personal Best SS. I have this one in Senorita Pink and I'm really glad I exchanged my lolo one for the Senorita Pink because after I wore it around for a while I found I really liked the bright flirty-ness of it. The Lolo is so pretty in this as well but I have too much Lolo purple (Stride, Modern, Static CRB and Swiftly). I made sure to get different fabrics of Lolo as they all look very, very different from each other but I still needed something to go with Lolo.
No new goings on at Lulu today so I thought I'd discus my running. This week the weather has cooled down significantly from last week. For the past few weeks the weather has been around 30* but feeling really humid so running was tough but I stuck with my schedule and made sure I got plenty of water and gatorade and coconut water occasionally to fuel my runs and also keep my milk supply up for nursing, I was satisfied if I was dripping sweat by the time I got home. If I wasn't that meant I didn't hydrate enough and would end up with a wicked headache and a cranky baby. This week the weather has been in the 20's and my runs have been fantastic. I noticed things felt really easy and especially on the hills which I do a lot of but I wouldn't normally describe the experience as easy. All three days so far my hills have felt completely effortless and like I'm just gliding up them. I did a long run on Sunday (7km) but then on Wednesday and Thursday my short runs felt like they were too short so I continued on to my long run distance and last night I surpassed it to just under 8km!!! And I haven't even been waking up sore the next day either which is a great sign to push myself further. I think it's funny how your mind gives you these beliefs about your limitations but really when you push yourself you can go well beyond what you thought you could. Of course it helps to have some weather transitions on your side. I wish Lululemon could make a hydration pack that doesn't require velcro to close it which abrades your luon. I have one sacrificed CRB tank with pilling across where I have my Fuel belt sitting and if it's hot enough that I need to wear my belt I wear that tank (Lagoon?)...but I really prefer to wear my nicer colored CRB's and my I Just Wanna Run Tank (Pig Pink) because I like to at least look good when sweat is pouring out of me like a faucet and I'm wearing a grimace on my face as I power up the hills. I almost used an old toddler sock with the end cut off threaded through my belt to cover the velcro but I couldn't find one single neutral colored sock to use. Sunday were going to have a low temp of 18 and guess what I wish I had to wear that day...this.
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| Me running up a hill. JJ, this isn't me or the hills I run. |
From Run Like A Mother about a few things I love. Running + Lululemon + pretty colors and the combination of all three things. Lululemon must have a color therapist selecting the color pallets because the Wish Blue and Lolo Purples really amp me up about running. Today I'm feeling unmotivated to get back to my running after having taken 4 long days off. Which I needed because I could feel an achiness in my achilles starting to creep in. So I was thinking this morning that what I really need to kick start my running is a lolo pullover. That would be just the thing I think. Anyways, I'm running tonight wether I feel like it or not.
I just discovered a new awesome blog that I've linked to on the right hand side and also over here. This find was courtesy of my Running Room Magazine I just got in the mail. I wonder if she wears Lulu too.
I found this great article in Runners World today called I Am Not A Jogger that made me wish today was not a rest day for me.
And here is the list of what the Author, John Bingham says makes you a runner and not a jogger:
I AM A RUNNER because my runs have names. I do tempo runs and threshold runs andfartlek runs. I do long, slow runs and track workouts. My runs are defined, even if my abs are not.
I AM A RUNNER because my shoes are training equipment, not a fashion statement. The best shoe for me is the one that makes me a better runner. I choose the shoe that goes with my running mechanics, not my running outfit.
I AM A RUNNER because I don't have running outfits. I have technical shirts and shorts and socks. I have apparel that enhances the experience of running by allowing me to run comfortably. I can say "Coolmax" and "Gore-Tex" in the same sentence and know which does what.
I AM A RUNNER because I know what effort feels like, and I embrace it. I know when I'm pushing the limits of my comfort and why I'm doing it. I know that heavy breathing and an accelerated heart rate--things I once avoided--are necessary if I want to be a better runner.
I AM A RUNNER because I value and respect my body. It will whisper to me when I've done too much. And if I choose to listen to that whisper, my body won't have to scream in pain later on.
I AM A RUNNER because I am willing to lay it all on the line. I know that every finish line has the potential to lift my spirits to new highs or devastate me, yet I line up anyway.
I AM A RUNNER because I know that despite my best efforts, I will always want more from myself. I will always want to know my limits so that I can exceed them.
I AM A RUNNER because I run. Not because I run fast. Not because I run far.
I AM A RUNNER because I say I am. And no one can tell me I'm not.
Waddle on, friends.
And I officially became a runner when I got lost on one of my new longer loops towards the end of my run and had to run all the way home way past what I thought were my limits because I couldn't be late getting back to my kids. It ended up being my first 6km's ever.
And here is the list of what the Author, John Bingham says makes you a runner and not a jogger:
I AM A RUNNER because my runs have names. I do tempo runs and threshold runs andfartlek runs. I do long, slow runs and track workouts. My runs are defined, even if my abs are not.
I AM A RUNNER because my shoes are training equipment, not a fashion statement. The best shoe for me is the one that makes me a better runner. I choose the shoe that goes with my running mechanics, not my running outfit.
I AM A RUNNER because I don't have running outfits. I have technical shirts and shorts and socks. I have apparel that enhances the experience of running by allowing me to run comfortably. I can say "Coolmax" and "Gore-Tex" in the same sentence and know which does what.
I AM A RUNNER because I know what effort feels like, and I embrace it. I know when I'm pushing the limits of my comfort and why I'm doing it. I know that heavy breathing and an accelerated heart rate--things I once avoided--are necessary if I want to be a better runner.
I AM A RUNNER because I value and respect my body. It will whisper to me when I've done too much. And if I choose to listen to that whisper, my body won't have to scream in pain later on.
I AM A RUNNER because I am willing to lay it all on the line. I know that every finish line has the potential to lift my spirits to new highs or devastate me, yet I line up anyway.
I AM A RUNNER because I know that despite my best efforts, I will always want more from myself. I will always want to know my limits so that I can exceed them.
I AM A RUNNER because I run. Not because I run fast. Not because I run far.
I AM A RUNNER because I say I am. And no one can tell me I'm not.
Waddle on, friends.
And I officially became a runner when I got lost on one of my new longer loops towards the end of my run and had to run all the way home way past what I thought were my limits because I couldn't be late getting back to my kids. It ended up being my first 6km's ever.
These are the best pair of running shoes I have ever worn and also the first time I've ever had my shoes properly fitted at The Running Room. I used to wear a good pair of Asics for overpronation with good heel support thinking that that's what I needed. I used to get shin splints really bad and ITB pain so I got some prescription orthotics from my chiropractor and that did help some but that's a pretty expensive solution at $350 per pair. Luckily my chiropractor was also my boss and so I got mine for free.
So when I went into the Running Room and had my foot and gait assessed this past March I was very surprised to learn that I have a neutral foot. I tried on many a decent pair of shoes but when I tried on the New Balance 1064 I was very happy. the shoe is a little bit wider than what I've used before but my ankle and heel felt pretty locked in there without any movement. I also love the laces which I have never seen before. there a sausage link shaped lace so you don't have to knot it to prevent your laces from becoming undone. I have a funny way of doing up my shoes for a run anyways so it's never really an issue. I like to tuck in the excess laces under itself so I don't get floppy laces thwaking my ankles.
This post isn't so much about these shoes in particular because I don't think you should pick shoes that work for someone else or that look pretty. This post is a recommendation to have your foot and gait assessed before you choose your running shoe. I had zero clue that I would have been a neutral foot and that wearing overly supportive shoes I was aggravating a shin splint and ITB issue. I still wear my orthotics of course because I like having the arch support, especially after two pregnancies. If you do wear orthotics make sure to take them in to were ever you get fitted for runners as well as your old running shoes so that they can look at the wear on the treads.
So when I went into the Running Room and had my foot and gait assessed this past March I was very surprised to learn that I have a neutral foot. I tried on many a decent pair of shoes but when I tried on the New Balance 1064 I was very happy. the shoe is a little bit wider than what I've used before but my ankle and heel felt pretty locked in there without any movement. I also love the laces which I have never seen before. there a sausage link shaped lace so you don't have to knot it to prevent your laces from becoming undone. I have a funny way of doing up my shoes for a run anyways so it's never really an issue. I like to tuck in the excess laces under itself so I don't get floppy laces thwaking my ankles.
This post isn't so much about these shoes in particular because I don't think you should pick shoes that work for someone else or that look pretty. This post is a recommendation to have your foot and gait assessed before you choose your running shoe. I had zero clue that I would have been a neutral foot and that wearing overly supportive shoes I was aggravating a shin splint and ITB issue. I still wear my orthotics of course because I like having the arch support, especially after two pregnancies. If you do wear orthotics make sure to take them in to were ever you get fitted for runners as well as your old running shoes so that they can look at the wear on the treads.
Well, my first running related injury happened this weekend. An ingrown toenail. This is a repeat problem for me and I've had one treated before, but this one was bad. real bad. Caused by the shape of my nail combined with running. And it got to it's pinnacle of pain this morning after a long night of throbbing aching pain waking me up. I've had two kids and a wisdom tooth complicated with dry socket...I have a pretty high pain threshold, this was by far the worst. So off I went to a podiatrist to get this treated because there was no way in hell I was going to get a walk in clinic anywhere near my toe. Last time I had this treated my GP (at the time!!!) decided to excise it without a local.
This very kind Dr. froze me up good and removed the offending wedge of nail with instructions to come back in a few months when this happens again, because it will (but before it becomes infected) and that way I can get that portion of the nail bed killed at the root. You end up with very cute shaped nails after though.
All of today cost me $145 and the future root treatment will cost $200. Pedicures may not have prevented this (I have weird toe nails)...but it may have been a low cost solution if done every 8 weeks regularly. In the meantime, I can resume running tomorrow...but right now I am in so much pain that I just want to have my entire toe removed.
So girls (and guys), get pedicures. It's actually good for your health.
This very kind Dr. froze me up good and removed the offending wedge of nail with instructions to come back in a few months when this happens again, because it will (but before it becomes infected) and that way I can get that portion of the nail bed killed at the root. You end up with very cute shaped nails after though.
All of today cost me $145 and the future root treatment will cost $200. Pedicures may not have prevented this (I have weird toe nails)...but it may have been a low cost solution if done every 8 weeks regularly. In the meantime, I can resume running tomorrow...but right now I am in so much pain that I just want to have my entire toe removed.
So girls (and guys), get pedicures. It's actually good for your health.
A lot of people on the Lululemon Facebook page are asking advice on ways to stay motivated to run and a lot of people in my life are wondering how I'm keeping motivated considering I have a newborn and a two year old and I'm a stay at home mum. So I thought I'd share what my motivations are and the mind games I play with myself to get out the door at least 4 days a week.
1. When your a stay at home mom it's really easy to feel down when your having tough days of tantrums and colic, so getting out that door for a run is good for my mood, my self esteem and my patients and in turn it's good for my kids. So I get out the door so that my kids can have a good mommy instead of a frazzled one.
2. Baby Weight. I want it off for summer. I want to look good in my Lulu's.
3. Babysitting. If I rely on someone to come by for an hour so that I can get my running in I can't let them down by asking them to not come over after all because I really don't feel like running. If my mom in law or mom have agreed to come by tomorrow at noon than I will not flake out on them.
4. Follow a program. Even in the beginning when you can run farther than the program dictates stick with the program. It prevents injury, adapts you to run farther later on than if you would have just jumped in at 10 minute runs and it keeps you focused and motivated to have an end goal. I use the John Stanton Running Room program because I did the Learn to Run program there last year until I found myself pregnant at week 5.
5. Even when you don't feel like going out, make yourself do at least 5-10 minutes, if you still don't feel up to it you can stop but usually you will keep going cause your already out there.
6. Make yourself take days off. Rest days help your muscles recover and adapt so the next run you can go farther or longer. If you don't take days off when you need them you will feel unmotivated and worn down and your runs will suffer.
7. Change your route and running surfaces. I run trails, track, sidewalk, road and treadmill. I make it a point to explore my neighborhood and take routes that I haven't before. Change the direction that you run a rout. Run up that hill instead of down that hill. Run big loops around the hood or shorter loops that you can double.
8.. Mind games for when your bored (and not using an iPod) follow your breathing and focus on your exhales. empty your lungs well and your inhales will happen naturally. follow your thoughts just like you would in Yoga. Don't censor yourself, if your thinking "i'm bored" think about what you would rather be doing. Focus on how your body is feeling, are your legs or lungs really that tired or is it your mind telling you that your bored.
9. Music. I run outside without music, always. I need to be aware of whats around me for safety but also so that I can be used to dealing with boredom. I don't want to miss a run just because my iPod is out of batteries or I'm bored with the music on my playlist so I've conditioned myself to run without my iPod. If I really want to listen to music and I need it for a faster tempo than I run on the treadmill and let myself tune out completely.
10. Reward yourself with cute Lulu clothes when you've met a goal of dropping a size or running a certain distance. buy lulu socks or a headband for the smaller goals.
1. When your a stay at home mom it's really easy to feel down when your having tough days of tantrums and colic, so getting out that door for a run is good for my mood, my self esteem and my patients and in turn it's good for my kids. So I get out the door so that my kids can have a good mommy instead of a frazzled one.
2. Baby Weight. I want it off for summer. I want to look good in my Lulu's.
3. Babysitting. If I rely on someone to come by for an hour so that I can get my running in I can't let them down by asking them to not come over after all because I really don't feel like running. If my mom in law or mom have agreed to come by tomorrow at noon than I will not flake out on them.
4. Follow a program. Even in the beginning when you can run farther than the program dictates stick with the program. It prevents injury, adapts you to run farther later on than if you would have just jumped in at 10 minute runs and it keeps you focused and motivated to have an end goal. I use the John Stanton Running Room program because I did the Learn to Run program there last year until I found myself pregnant at week 5.
5. Even when you don't feel like going out, make yourself do at least 5-10 minutes, if you still don't feel up to it you can stop but usually you will keep going cause your already out there.
6. Make yourself take days off. Rest days help your muscles recover and adapt so the next run you can go farther or longer. If you don't take days off when you need them you will feel unmotivated and worn down and your runs will suffer.
7. Change your route and running surfaces. I run trails, track, sidewalk, road and treadmill. I make it a point to explore my neighborhood and take routes that I haven't before. Change the direction that you run a rout. Run up that hill instead of down that hill. Run big loops around the hood or shorter loops that you can double.
8.. Mind games for when your bored (and not using an iPod) follow your breathing and focus on your exhales. empty your lungs well and your inhales will happen naturally. follow your thoughts just like you would in Yoga. Don't censor yourself, if your thinking "i'm bored" think about what you would rather be doing. Focus on how your body is feeling, are your legs or lungs really that tired or is it your mind telling you that your bored.
9. Music. I run outside without music, always. I need to be aware of whats around me for safety but also so that I can be used to dealing with boredom. I don't want to miss a run just because my iPod is out of batteries or I'm bored with the music on my playlist so I've conditioned myself to run without my iPod. If I really want to listen to music and I need it for a faster tempo than I run on the treadmill and let myself tune out completely.
10. Reward yourself with cute Lulu clothes when you've met a goal of dropping a size or running a certain distance. buy lulu socks or a headband for the smaller goals.
I had a really great speed training run last night which started as a "I really don't feel like running today" run. The magic motivator aside from looking good in my lulu's was Sergio Mendes on my iTouch. I think the best song was "that heat" with Will i am. Reminded me of summer and I was imagining running along a beach in Rio with hunky soccer players in the background and mohitos awaiting me as a reward. Today will be a down to business run outside with no music.
Years ago I was prescribed compression stockings for varicose veins in my legs. They weren't big veins or very noticeable to someone not specifically looking for them but I knew they were there and they bothered me. I never did use the stockings because, well, they were ugly and expensive ($100++). Now Lululemon carries compression socks for runners to support muscle recovery and leg drainage of lactic acid buildup. Here is what I love about my lulu compression socks:
1. Cheap! $25 and they work just as well for varicose veins as the prescription ones. very tight fitting yet comfy. I had noticeable difference after one use.
2. relieves achy legs after a run in about 20 minutes for me. Also great when you get puffy, achy legs during PMS.
3. great for leg and foot swelling in pregnancy
4. They look much cuter than the pharmacy brand ones.
1. Cheap! $25 and they work just as well for varicose veins as the prescription ones. very tight fitting yet comfy. I had noticeable difference after one use.
2. relieves achy legs after a run in about 20 minutes for me. Also great when you get puffy, achy legs during PMS.
3. great for leg and foot swelling in pregnancy
4. They look much cuter than the pharmacy brand ones.
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