Tuesday I didn't get a chance to go for a run. Life gets in the way sometimes so I considered it a rest day. Wednesday was our day to work legs and since C and I both had a day off, I decided to go full force on the workout. We did box jumps on a bosu ball, lunges, squats with a side kick, butt burns, red cup drill, squats throwing/catching a medicine ball, and also threw in some push ups. When I put the workout together, it had slipped my mind that I mentally cannot do box jumps. My brother used to have me try them at the gym and I would just stare at the step or object I was supposed to jump on and could not do it. My fear is that I'll fall on my face.
The bosu ball was the round side up and I was supposed to jump on top of it, squat, and jump back down and repeat as many times as I could in a minute. Christine looked at me and said "you can do it!" I laughed as I stared down the ball. She said it again "you can do it!" That's all I needed to hear and up I jumped on to the top of the round bosu. I did it!!! I was clumsy for the first round of the circuit, but I was getting the hang of it.
Round one of the circuit wasn't so bad. One of the trainers we regularly see in the morning came over and corrected my push up form. He said I "bob my head." I'm still not understanding what he is saying because I don't think I bob my head. In fact, I told C it is probably my ponytail he was seeing. HA! I'll have to practice these at home and make sure I have the correct form. Rounds two and three of the circuit were brutal. My butt all the way down my legs were burning. When we did the butt burn exercises in rounds 2 and 3, I had to rest part way through.
The workout today was awesome. My legs and butt were on fire when we left the gym and they are on fire tonight. And, aside from the trainer correcting my push up form, we had no other distractions today which makes for a much more effective and efficient workout.
Tomorrow is a running day. My plan is to get up early and go to the hotel gym to get some running in before I start my day.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Bare Necessities
Monday morning we decided to work our arms since we had just run nine miles on Sunday and we wanted to give our legs a bit of a rest. Our arm workout consisted of curls, plank to push ups, tri dips, push ups, and bear crawls to name a few. Those bear crawls are a great cardio, core, and arm workout. The entire time I feel like an ass when I'm doing them, but they work me hard!
At the end of our workout we had some time for a couple ab exercises. I like having this extra time at the end of each session to focus on abs.
One thing is for sure, Christine and I are two of the hardest working people in the gym that early. If I look around, many people look like zombies going through the motions of moving their weights or doing their cardio. We may look like that the first two exercises of our first circuit, but then we are kicking some serious ass. It feels good to know we are working hard so early in the morning. We get the most out of our one hour gym sessions!!
At the end of our workout we had some time for a couple ab exercises. I like having this extra time at the end of each session to focus on abs.
One thing is for sure, Christine and I are two of the hardest working people in the gym that early. If I look around, many people look like zombies going through the motions of moving their weights or doing their cardio. We may look like that the first two exercises of our first circuit, but then we are kicking some serious ass. It feels good to know we are working hard so early in the morning. We get the most out of our one hour gym sessions!!
San Marcos Tour
Sunday Christine and I were scheduled to run nine miles. C mapped out a couple of options and she let me choose our route. The course I chose took us over to Discovery Hills which is the furthest I've ever run away from my neighborhood. All my training runs around the neighborhood were either within a few miles of home or I would go to Mission Bay or Carlsbad to run. So, this was new to me.
Our first mile took us up an incline. We did it with no problem, but I was definitely out of breath. The route was relatively flat with a few hills in just the right places. About the 4 mile mark, I had to go to the bathroom which conveniently was where C had stashed some ice cold Gatorades for us. This was about the time I looked up and realized how far away it seemed we were from home. Thankfully C knew the way because we went down roads I had never traveled before and I saw some really nice homes.
The weather was just beautiful on Sunday. There was a nice breeze and the sun was out. I walked more than I wanted, but we still did the full nine miles. My legs were getting sore around mile seven which I haven't experienced before.
My left leg (longer, stronger leg) is still sore today. I'm not sure how I'm going to run 13.1 miles in three weeks. I'm not ready. It is so frustrating to not be a good runner. Why can't I just get out there and run? So many people make it look effortless including my two running partners, Christine and Kristin. I feel like I struggle so much. I need to come up with a race plan that won't leave me disappointed in myself at the end of the half marathon. For the first time ever, it has crossed my mind to quit the half marathon. I won't because I'm not a quitter and I want to be there to experience it with C and Kristin, but more and more I'm realizing I'm not cut out for long distance running.
Our first mile took us up an incline. We did it with no problem, but I was definitely out of breath. The route was relatively flat with a few hills in just the right places. About the 4 mile mark, I had to go to the bathroom which conveniently was where C had stashed some ice cold Gatorades for us. This was about the time I looked up and realized how far away it seemed we were from home. Thankfully C knew the way because we went down roads I had never traveled before and I saw some really nice homes.
The weather was just beautiful on Sunday. There was a nice breeze and the sun was out. I walked more than I wanted, but we still did the full nine miles. My legs were getting sore around mile seven which I haven't experienced before.
My left leg (longer, stronger leg) is still sore today. I'm not sure how I'm going to run 13.1 miles in three weeks. I'm not ready. It is so frustrating to not be a good runner. Why can't I just get out there and run? So many people make it look effortless including my two running partners, Christine and Kristin. I feel like I struggle so much. I need to come up with a race plan that won't leave me disappointed in myself at the end of the half marathon. For the first time ever, it has crossed my mind to quit the half marathon. I won't because I'm not a quitter and I want to be there to experience it with C and Kristin, but more and more I'm realizing I'm not cut out for long distance running.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
In a Fog
Thursday I was fortunate enough to be able to do my 6 mile run outside with Christine. We had to move hotel rooms at the hotel so I stayed home from work to help Scott. This gave me some flexibility to do my workout earlier in the day. Running outside is soooo much better than running on a treadmill. I don't really have much to write about our run though. The last week has felt like I'm watching my life on t.v. rather than actually living it. It is a feeling like I'm in a fog so I don't remember much of the 6 miles. I can tell you some of our course, but not all of it. I can remember some of the things Christine told me, but not all of them. I know I had to walk a short distance, but I can't tell you how my body felt or how my mind was during the run. I have learned so much about stress this week and how it impacts your life, mind, body, and soul.
Friday we did our usual ab workout and 2 miles on the treadmill. There was nothing out of the ordinary about our workout, but I was again reminded how awesome it is to have a workout buddy there to hold me accountable. Otherwise, I probably would have stayed in bed all week.
Saturday is my rest day. Sunday is a nine mile run with Christine.
Friday we did our usual ab workout and 2 miles on the treadmill. There was nothing out of the ordinary about our workout, but I was again reminded how awesome it is to have a workout buddy there to hold me accountable. Otherwise, I probably would have stayed in bed all week.
Saturday is my rest day. Sunday is a nine mile run with Christine.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Yee Haw!
Today was our arm workout. We were going to do Bob's Boxing Challenge. His challenge is intended for one time through, but I knew we could do it three times today. The "challenge" was to get 5 lb weights and do 30 jumping jacks, jump rope for 30, jabs, speed bag, and more jumping jacks. It definitely made my arms burn. After the boxing challenge, we moved to push ups, assisted pull ups on the machine, planks, and crab walk.
When it came time to do pull ups during round 2, someone was on the machine so I thought of a good improvise; wheelbarrows. I wasn't sure how C would feel about that since it sort of draws attention to you as you are wheelbarrowing across the gym. When I worked out with my brother last year, he had me do those a lot. Of course C was game so we did wheelbarrows for round 2 and it was awesome. They not only work your arms, they are a good cardio workout too.
For round 3, I let C choose between assisted pull ups or wheelbarrows. She's so awesome and chose wheelbarrows! This time we stayed downstairs and went further across the gym. We each did it twice. My arms were shaking the last time. It felt great!
We had extra time to do some abs. We did our usual; bicycles, reverse crunches, and iron mikes. Then it occurred to me! Let's do side planks with a dumbbell on our waist. Boy was that difficult, but good! I'm hoping my arms are sore tomorrow. Thursday is a running day so I'll probably hit the hotel gym to log my miles.
When it came time to do pull ups during round 2, someone was on the machine so I thought of a good improvise; wheelbarrows. I wasn't sure how C would feel about that since it sort of draws attention to you as you are wheelbarrowing across the gym. When I worked out with my brother last year, he had me do those a lot. Of course C was game so we did wheelbarrows for round 2 and it was awesome. They not only work your arms, they are a good cardio workout too.
For round 3, I let C choose between assisted pull ups or wheelbarrows. She's so awesome and chose wheelbarrows! This time we stayed downstairs and went further across the gym. We each did it twice. My arms were shaking the last time. It felt great!
We had extra time to do some abs. We did our usual; bicycles, reverse crunches, and iron mikes. Then it occurred to me! Let's do side planks with a dumbbell on our waist. Boy was that difficult, but good! I'm hoping my arms are sore tomorrow. Thursday is a running day so I'll probably hit the hotel gym to log my miles.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
No Excuses
The stuff going on with the house has taken its toll on me. It has completely zapped my energy and it probably doesn't help that I haven't been really good about eating. It is a bad habit of mine that I forget to eat. Well there was no way I was dragging myself out of bed this morning so I knew I'd have to do the 3 miles on the treadmill tonight.
Knowing the gym was just downstairs, I really didn't have an excuse to skip working out today. After work, after the kids did their homework, and after dinner, I went downstairs and hopped on the treadmill. It was so convenient to just pop downstairs and get going. They even have towels!! For the first few minutes I was alone in the gym and it was awesome. I was able to get my personal t.v. going, got my music all set up, and off I went. Changing the channels on the t.v. was a good distraction and it was nice having the t.v. right up close and in my face. There was nothing interesting on except news and sports so I put on Sports Center and left it there. Figured I might as well get up to speed on what's happening in the world of sports and the regular news just depresses me.
I ran the first 1.5 miles at a 12 minute mile pace and then ran a 10 1/2 minute mile pace to the 2 mile mark. The last mile I settled back into my 12 min mile pace again, turned up my music, and before I knew it I was at 2.75 miles so I picked up my pace and ran a 10 minute mile to the 3 mile finish. I slowed my pace to cool down for the next .25 mile. I did it and I felt fantastic! I know I could have run longer because I wasn't out of breath at all.
When I was done, I turned off "my" t.v. and headed back to our room. Not having to drive anywhere was so convenient. I'm proud of myself for making it to the gym tonight. I've been so tired and unmotivated the last few days. This is just what I needed to jump start my drive again!
Tomorrow is our early morning workout and we're doing arms. I was excited to find a new Bob challenge for us to try.
Knowing the gym was just downstairs, I really didn't have an excuse to skip working out today. After work, after the kids did their homework, and after dinner, I went downstairs and hopped on the treadmill. It was so convenient to just pop downstairs and get going. They even have towels!! For the first few minutes I was alone in the gym and it was awesome. I was able to get my personal t.v. going, got my music all set up, and off I went. Changing the channels on the t.v. was a good distraction and it was nice having the t.v. right up close and in my face. There was nothing interesting on except news and sports so I put on Sports Center and left it there. Figured I might as well get up to speed on what's happening in the world of sports and the regular news just depresses me.
I ran the first 1.5 miles at a 12 minute mile pace and then ran a 10 1/2 minute mile pace to the 2 mile mark. The last mile I settled back into my 12 min mile pace again, turned up my music, and before I knew it I was at 2.75 miles so I picked up my pace and ran a 10 minute mile to the 3 mile finish. I slowed my pace to cool down for the next .25 mile. I did it and I felt fantastic! I know I could have run longer because I wasn't out of breath at all.
When I was done, I turned off "my" t.v. and headed back to our room. Not having to drive anywhere was so convenient. I'm proud of myself for making it to the gym tonight. I've been so tired and unmotivated the last few days. This is just what I needed to jump start my drive again!
Tomorrow is our early morning workout and we're doing arms. I was excited to find a new Bob challenge for us to try.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Monday Already?
Both Saturday and Sunday unexpectedly ended up being "rest" days for me. I was bummed to miss out on my 9 mile training run on Sunday and felt guilty all day. In fact, I still feel guilty since I know both Christine and Kristin did their long runs.
Waking up in a hotel room and getting ready for the gym this morning was a challenge. First of all I was exhausted from the weekend, so peeling my body out of the bed was not easy. Secondly, I was trying not to wake anyone while I got all my gear together. But it all worked out and I got myself to the gym and was greeted with a huge smile and awesome hug! Nothing better than that on an early Monday morning.
Our workout this morning was a good one. I found an older workout to reuse for today because I hadn't had the time to put something together. This definitely made us sweat. After the first round, I felt lightheaded and had to sit down. My guess is it was from my lack of eating and drinking all weekend being consumed with house stuff. We got through all three circuits and we were wiped!
As tired as I was this morning, it felt great to be in the gym with C. Not only did we burn a lot of calories, I got to relieve a lot of the stress I was feeling all weekend. It would have been so easy to make an excuse not to go this morning. Even with all the workouts I've been doing for the last couple years, I could see how easy it would be to slip back into old habits and make excuses not to go. Thankfully today I had Christine there to hold me accountable.
Tomorrow would have been Torrey Pines Tuesday, but in light of recent events that won't happen this week. I'm going to get up and use the hotel gym in the morning and run my 3 miles on the treadmill. The treadmills here are sweet; they each have their own t.v. Wish me luck!
Waking up in a hotel room and getting ready for the gym this morning was a challenge. First of all I was exhausted from the weekend, so peeling my body out of the bed was not easy. Secondly, I was trying not to wake anyone while I got all my gear together. But it all worked out and I got myself to the gym and was greeted with a huge smile and awesome hug! Nothing better than that on an early Monday morning.
Our workout this morning was a good one. I found an older workout to reuse for today because I hadn't had the time to put something together. This definitely made us sweat. After the first round, I felt lightheaded and had to sit down. My guess is it was from my lack of eating and drinking all weekend being consumed with house stuff. We got through all three circuits and we were wiped!
As tired as I was this morning, it felt great to be in the gym with C. Not only did we burn a lot of calories, I got to relieve a lot of the stress I was feeling all weekend. It would have been so easy to make an excuse not to go this morning. Even with all the workouts I've been doing for the last couple years, I could see how easy it would be to slip back into old habits and make excuses not to go. Thankfully today I had Christine there to hold me accountable.
Tomorrow would have been Torrey Pines Tuesday, but in light of recent events that won't happen this week. I'm going to get up and use the hotel gym in the morning and run my 3 miles on the treadmill. The treadmills here are sweet; they each have their own t.v. Wish me luck!
Friday, October 15, 2010
Don't Drop the Banana!
Boy was I tired this morning when my alarm went off. I haven't had a day off from working out in over a week. Thursday is usually my day to rest, but not this week so I could feel it in my body. My muscles aren't sore, but my energy level was lower today. Got dressed, grabbed a (magical) banana and water, and started for the door. That's when I dropped everything (except the banana) as I was leaving. Not sure if I woke the boys or not, but it was a pretty big crash. Oy! Walk to my car and can't find my keys and the whole time I'm holding on to my banana for dear life because I had already peeled it and if I dropped it that would be the end of the banana.
In the car, I realize these little setbacks are going to make me late so I send C a text letting her know I was on my way. When I park my car at the gym, I'm fumbling to collect all my things, open the door and jam my knee into a DVD case I had in the door. Son of a b**ch I shout and hop around the parking lot. It was quite an ordeal just to get INTO the gym.
We did our ab workout including Bob's plank challenge. I have to say we're rockstars with that workout now! We did a couple new ab exercises today including the captain's chair and I had an idea to try an ab exercise with the stability ball (plank position, shins on ball, roll ball in one leg at a time to chest). So I get the ball, try to get into position, the ball rolls out from under me and I fall to the floor. We could not stop laughing.
Then it was off to the treadmill for our 2 mile run. I settled in to my 12 minute mile pace and before I knew it I was almost done. The last 1/4 mile I picked up the pace to a 10 minute mile and I was feeling good! Maybe I'm getting used to this treadmill running and eating beforehand is probably helping too!
Saturday is my much needed day of rest!!! Sunday is a 9 mile run with C.
In the car, I realize these little setbacks are going to make me late so I send C a text letting her know I was on my way. When I park my car at the gym, I'm fumbling to collect all my things, open the door and jam my knee into a DVD case I had in the door. Son of a b**ch I shout and hop around the parking lot. It was quite an ordeal just to get INTO the gym.
We did our ab workout including Bob's plank challenge. I have to say we're rockstars with that workout now! We did a couple new ab exercises today including the captain's chair and I had an idea to try an ab exercise with the stability ball (plank position, shins on ball, roll ball in one leg at a time to chest). So I get the ball, try to get into position, the ball rolls out from under me and I fall to the floor. We could not stop laughing.
Then it was off to the treadmill for our 2 mile run. I settled in to my 12 minute mile pace and before I knew it I was almost done. The last 1/4 mile I picked up the pace to a 10 minute mile and I was feeling good! Maybe I'm getting used to this treadmill running and eating beforehand is probably helping too!
Saturday is my much needed day of rest!!! Sunday is a 9 mile run with C.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
It's Dark, Very Dark
Got up early this morning (5:00) to meet Kristin for our run. Got dressed, grabbed a banana and some water, and all my things to get ready for work (clothes, towel, toiletries). I needed gas so I stopped at the gas station, ate my banana, and then cruised to work. As I reached Solana Beach I heard something hitting my windshield. I thought maybe I had driven through some locusts or something. Nope! It was rain! I laughed. Of course it was raining!
I pulled into work at 5:40. It was so dark and my first thought was that it was going to make for a very long day at work. Our plan was to run from work to Torrey Pines Beach and back along Carmel Valley Road starting around 6:00. We actually were able to start a little earlier than planned. Thankfully it wasn't raining anymore.
We warmed up by walking for a bit and then took off on our journey. It was dark. Very very dark. I couldn't see the sidewalk in front of me and I was worried one of us might fall. We got to a point where the street lights end and so does the sidewalk (ha! Where the Sidewalk Ends) so we made a change in plans and took off up a lighted hill towards Del Mar Heights Road.
This hill was ridiculously long. We did our usual ritual of pointing out landmarks to run to and then would walk for a bit and then start running again. This street took us through a beautiful neighborhood and I felt much safer here than I did on Carmel Valley Road. It was so dark that at one point I asked Kristin if someone was running towards us and sure enough it was a guy running. We could not see much out there.
It started getting lighter as we crossed over the I-5. I had never run or walked on the bridge over the I-5 and it was a bit freaky watching the cars rush by below. We made it back to work with plenty of time to stretch before our showers.
Running that early and in the dark is a great distraction! It didn't feel like we were running because we were so focused on being safe. What an awesome way to start the day!!!
Tomorrow Christine and I are doing our ab workout and then the two mile run on the treadmill. I found a few new challenging ab exercises that I'm excited to try. Hoping they don't require too much coordination. If they do, at least we'll get some laughs in.
I pulled into work at 5:40. It was so dark and my first thought was that it was going to make for a very long day at work. Our plan was to run from work to Torrey Pines Beach and back along Carmel Valley Road starting around 6:00. We actually were able to start a little earlier than planned. Thankfully it wasn't raining anymore.
We warmed up by walking for a bit and then took off on our journey. It was dark. Very very dark. I couldn't see the sidewalk in front of me and I was worried one of us might fall. We got to a point where the street lights end and so does the sidewalk (ha! Where the Sidewalk Ends) so we made a change in plans and took off up a lighted hill towards Del Mar Heights Road.
This hill was ridiculously long. We did our usual ritual of pointing out landmarks to run to and then would walk for a bit and then start running again. This street took us through a beautiful neighborhood and I felt much safer here than I did on Carmel Valley Road. It was so dark that at one point I asked Kristin if someone was running towards us and sure enough it was a guy running. We could not see much out there.
It started getting lighter as we crossed over the I-5. I had never run or walked on the bridge over the I-5 and it was a bit freaky watching the cars rush by below. We made it back to work with plenty of time to stretch before our showers.
Running that early and in the dark is a great distraction! It didn't feel like we were running because we were so focused on being safe. What an awesome way to start the day!!!
Tomorrow Christine and I are doing our ab workout and then the two mile run on the treadmill. I found a few new challenging ab exercises that I'm excited to try. Hoping they don't require too much coordination. If they do, at least we'll get some laughs in.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Busy Morning at the Gym
Our Wednesday morning circuit was arms. When I got to the gym I couldn't believe how packed it was. I'm convinced there is a connection between when The Biggest Loser is on (Tuesday nights) and the traffic flow at the gym. We found a small section to do our workout in which is unusual because we usually have the entire workout area. Luckily today's workout didn't require a lot of space (no steps, no BOSU, no crab walks).
We did arms using the bands (curls, lateral raises, uppercuts, and overhead presses). We also did pushups, planks to pushups, mountain climbers, and kettlebell swings. It was a pretty decent workout and I feel like I really worked my arms good!
I can tell you I've gotten spoiled going to the gym early in the morning. It is nice being there without a bunch of people in our way. Regardless if there was a lot of activity in our part of the gym this morning, I tuned it out and focused on the task at hand.
Tomorrow is an early morning run to the beach with Kristin.
We did arms using the bands (curls, lateral raises, uppercuts, and overhead presses). We also did pushups, planks to pushups, mountain climbers, and kettlebell swings. It was a pretty decent workout and I feel like I really worked my arms good!
I can tell you I've gotten spoiled going to the gym early in the morning. It is nice being there without a bunch of people in our way. Regardless if there was a lot of activity in our part of the gym this morning, I tuned it out and focused on the task at hand.
Tomorrow is an early morning run to the beach with Kristin.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Moving Target
Today was our run up Torrey Pines and I was looking forward to it all day. I love being able to run after work and clear my head. We are now into a routine of walking a bit to warm up and then running up the hill. We ran to the same point we did last week, walked for a bit, chose a landmark to run to which was a moving target; a couple walking up the hill. It made it much more challenging! Once we reached the couple, we walked for a bit to catch our breath (okay, I caught my breath, Kristin was fine) and then ran the rest of the way which involves a pretty decent incline.
This week we walked down the hill to give our knees a break. When we got to the bottom, we ran quickly back to the car and then stretched. Total workout time was 54 minutes. We had a great run!
Tomorrow Christine and I are working our arms in our circuit workout. I love having workout buddies!!!
This week we walked down the hill to give our knees a break. When we got to the bottom, we ran quickly back to the car and then stretched. Total workout time was 54 minutes. We had a great run!
Tomorrow Christine and I are working our arms in our circuit workout. I love having workout buddies!!!
Monday, October 11, 2010
She's Got Legs
I didn't sleep very well last night so I was not mentally ready to get up and workout today. But I got my butt in gear, got dressed, and headed to the gym. Since Christine and I started meeting at the gym M/W/F in June, neither one of us has missed a day! I think that's a pretty amazing accomplishment. We hold each other accountable.
Today's workout was a leg circuit and we tried a new leg blaster challenge I found in Self magazine. The exercise is a lunge with dumbbells doing a chopping motion with the weights. We did 3 sets of 18 on each leg. The circuit also included weighted squat jumps, swing kicks, the cup challenge, cardio, and pushups. At the end of our three circuits we had time to work our abs so we did bicycles and reverse crunches. I was dripping with sweat by the end of our workout and my stomach was growling. We worked our tails off.
As much as I didn't want to go, I was so glad I did. As we made our way out of the gym, I felt how hard I worked today. My body was tired, but my mind and soul were energized. Now I was ready to face the day!
Torrey Pines Tuesday run with Kristin tomorrow!
Today's workout was a leg circuit and we tried a new leg blaster challenge I found in Self magazine. The exercise is a lunge with dumbbells doing a chopping motion with the weights. We did 3 sets of 18 on each leg. The circuit also included weighted squat jumps, swing kicks, the cup challenge, cardio, and pushups. At the end of our three circuits we had time to work our abs so we did bicycles and reverse crunches. I was dripping with sweat by the end of our workout and my stomach was growling. We worked our tails off.
As much as I didn't want to go, I was so glad I did. As we made our way out of the gym, I felt how hard I worked today. My body was tired, but my mind and soul were energized. Now I was ready to face the day!
Torrey Pines Tuesday run with Kristin tomorrow!
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Thankful
For some reason it wasn't difficult for me to get up this morning. I think knowing we had no plans today and I could potentially come home and nap was incentive to get my butt moving. Christine and I were meeting at our usual spot to do 5 miles. After I got dressed, I made myself a peanut butter sandwich and drank some water before heading out.
It was chilly this morning so we warmed up first by walking for a few minutes. When we started running, my legs were stiff and my hands were freezing. C and I were chatting and talking about our crazy Saturdays filled with sports. When we got to the rail trail on Mission, the sun was shining brightly in our eyes. We hadn't worn sunglasses today since we didn't need them last week. Before I knew it, we made it to Borden. I walked for a minute to catch my breath before charging up the hill and it gave us some time to get our music going.
As we started up Borden, I thought this will be a breeze after running up Torrey Pines. Yeah, not so much. It was still a challenge. I had to walk twice on the way up, but I was proud of myself for only walking a short time before running again. Borden goes like this...up up up, flat flat, down, up up up. My motivation to get me through the first up up up was knowing I would get to run down and get a break. When we got to the next and last up up up, I turned on an LMFAO song and it pushed me all the way up. We did it!!! We ran back to our cars, stretched and drank our water. It felt so good to have a 5 mile run done already.
For some reason today, my heart was just filled with happiness because I feel so lucky to have such amazing friends in my life. Running at 6:30 on a Sunday morning could be dreadful, but it is one of my favorite hours of the week because I get to spend it with my buddy talking about life.
It was chilly this morning so we warmed up first by walking for a few minutes. When we started running, my legs were stiff and my hands were freezing. C and I were chatting and talking about our crazy Saturdays filled with sports. When we got to the rail trail on Mission, the sun was shining brightly in our eyes. We hadn't worn sunglasses today since we didn't need them last week. Before I knew it, we made it to Borden. I walked for a minute to catch my breath before charging up the hill and it gave us some time to get our music going.
As we started up Borden, I thought this will be a breeze after running up Torrey Pines. Yeah, not so much. It was still a challenge. I had to walk twice on the way up, but I was proud of myself for only walking a short time before running again. Borden goes like this...up up up, flat flat, down, up up up. My motivation to get me through the first up up up was knowing I would get to run down and get a break. When we got to the next and last up up up, I turned on an LMFAO song and it pushed me all the way up. We did it!!! We ran back to our cars, stretched and drank our water. It felt so good to have a 5 mile run done already.
For some reason today, my heart was just filled with happiness because I feel so lucky to have such amazing friends in my life. Running at 6:30 on a Sunday morning could be dreadful, but it is one of my favorite hours of the week because I get to spend it with my buddy talking about life.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
My Walk
Saturday morning rolled around and I didn't feel like hopping out of bed to go for a run before the boys' soccer games. Instead, I decided to go for a walk in the evening. I didn't want to overdo it because I knew I was running 5 miles the next morning. The weather is beautiful and I thought I could take a stroll to get some fresh air and listen to my music.
My body and mind have changed because as I started my walk I felt impatient. I was not content just walking. So I started to run and as I was running I thought it would be cool to do some speed play. Along the path, I pinpointed a landmark and ran as fast as I could to it. I did this several times until I reached a shady spot to do lunges, pushups, and planks. It was a great way to break up the run and I also got some much needed arm exercises in. After my mini bootcamp, I ran back towards home. On my return, I kept at a steady pace. No more speed play until the last 1/4 mile and then I sped up. The faster running really took my breath away. Settling into my slower pace was much easier and more comfortable which probably isn't always a good thing. I learned that going for a walk isn't what it used to be for me.
Well it is time for me to go eat, drink some water, and prepare for my 5 miles with Christine in the morning.
My body and mind have changed because as I started my walk I felt impatient. I was not content just walking. So I started to run and as I was running I thought it would be cool to do some speed play. Along the path, I pinpointed a landmark and ran as fast as I could to it. I did this several times until I reached a shady spot to do lunges, pushups, and planks. It was a great way to break up the run and I also got some much needed arm exercises in. After my mini bootcamp, I ran back towards home. On my return, I kept at a steady pace. No more speed play until the last 1/4 mile and then I sped up. The faster running really took my breath away. Settling into my slower pace was much easier and more comfortable which probably isn't always a good thing. I learned that going for a walk isn't what it used to be for me.
Well it is time for me to go eat, drink some water, and prepare for my 5 miles with Christine in the morning.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Bananas are Magic
I have been dreading today's workout. Last night I told Scott I didn't want to go to the gym in the morning because the thought of running on the treadmill was dreadful. When my alarm went off this morning, I stayed in bed a little longer than usual thinking of all the reasons I should stay in bed. In the end, the thought of having the guilt on my mind all day and also leaving my workout buddy stranded, got me up and going.
I got dressed and the whole time was thinking how I could change the run today. What would make it better? Then it occurred to me....I don't usually eat before our morning workouts. The thought of food at 4:30 just doesn't sit right with me. YUCK! But maybe some food would help me not struggle so much through the run. So, I ate a banana and headed to the gym. I laughed when I pulled up to the gym because C was wearing a pink top and so was I. We've been matching a lot lately.
We started out with our ab/core exercises. Bob Harper's plank challenge is our standard Friday workout now and each week I feel myself getting stronger. In fact, this week I didn't struggle at all! The whole time we were doing our abs, I kept looking at the clock knowing what was coming...the 2 mile run from Hell.
We made our way to the cardio room. This week we picked the left side of the room instead of the right where we had been doing our treadmill runs. The treadmill I was on happened to be positioned in front of a door instead of a mirror. BONUS! I didn't have to see myself running. Started my iPod and treadmill and off I went telling myself I can do anything for 24 minutes. I started off slowly, I know some of you are saying and that's different from your regular runs, how? The first mile went by and I was able to distract myself with my music. When I reached the last 1/4 mile, I stepped it up and went full force to the "finish." I was done! Hallelujah!!!
Not sure what made the difference today. Was it being away from a mirror? Was it being on left side of the room? Was it my music? Was it because I was so dreading it this week that it ended up not being as bad as my mind made it out to be? or Was it the magic banana??? Whatever it was, I will try to re-create it next Friday.
Tomorrow I'm torn between taking a rest day or going for a run. I'll see how I feel in the morning. Most likely the run will win out.
I got dressed and the whole time was thinking how I could change the run today. What would make it better? Then it occurred to me....I don't usually eat before our morning workouts. The thought of food at 4:30 just doesn't sit right with me. YUCK! But maybe some food would help me not struggle so much through the run. So, I ate a banana and headed to the gym. I laughed when I pulled up to the gym because C was wearing a pink top and so was I. We've been matching a lot lately.
We started out with our ab/core exercises. Bob Harper's plank challenge is our standard Friday workout now and each week I feel myself getting stronger. In fact, this week I didn't struggle at all! The whole time we were doing our abs, I kept looking at the clock knowing what was coming...the 2 mile run from Hell.
We made our way to the cardio room. This week we picked the left side of the room instead of the right where we had been doing our treadmill runs. The treadmill I was on happened to be positioned in front of a door instead of a mirror. BONUS! I didn't have to see myself running. Started my iPod and treadmill and off I went telling myself I can do anything for 24 minutes. I started off slowly, I know some of you are saying and that's different from your regular runs, how? The first mile went by and I was able to distract myself with my music. When I reached the last 1/4 mile, I stepped it up and went full force to the "finish." I was done! Hallelujah!!!
Not sure what made the difference today. Was it being away from a mirror? Was it being on left side of the room? Was it my music? Was it because I was so dreading it this week that it ended up not being as bad as my mind made it out to be? or Was it the magic banana??? Whatever it was, I will try to re-create it next Friday.
Tomorrow I'm torn between taking a rest day or going for a run. I'll see how I feel in the morning. Most likely the run will win out.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Wednesday - Bob's Challenge
Wednesday we decided to focus on our arms. This time I brought my new Gym Boss interval timer. It was AWESOME!! I started it and didn't have to look at my watch once. It would beep when the minute interval was up. I didn't set it up to include transition time so I'll need to do that for our next workout.
Our workout consisted of some band work for our biceps and triceps. The circuit also included push ups, assisted pull ups on the machine, planks, mountain climbers, and Bob's In and Out Dumbbell Snatch Challenge. Bob's Challenge was a cardio workout. Take a dumbbell and lift it straight up to form a straight line with your body. Hold the weight for a second and then drop down into a squat swinging the dumbbell to your legs and back up. I'm not describing it well, but it was killer. We did 30 reps on each side during each circuit (90 reps total for each side). He has it posted on his website if you want to check it out.
During the 3rd round of the circuit we were running out of time. We got a little sidetracked laughing so we cut out the last set of pull ups and mountain climbers, but had a couple minutes for some ab work. The workout was really great. My arms felt like jello and I knew we worked hard.
Thursday is my rest day. Friday is our ab/core workout combined with a 2 mile treadmill run. I'm already dreading it. Anyone have some words of encouragement to get me through that torturous run????
Our workout consisted of some band work for our biceps and triceps. The circuit also included push ups, assisted pull ups on the machine, planks, mountain climbers, and Bob's In and Out Dumbbell Snatch Challenge. Bob's Challenge was a cardio workout. Take a dumbbell and lift it straight up to form a straight line with your body. Hold the weight for a second and then drop down into a squat swinging the dumbbell to your legs and back up. I'm not describing it well, but it was killer. We did 30 reps on each side during each circuit (90 reps total for each side). He has it posted on his website if you want to check it out.
During the 3rd round of the circuit we were running out of time. We got a little sidetracked laughing so we cut out the last set of pull ups and mountain climbers, but had a couple minutes for some ab work. The workout was really great. My arms felt like jello and I knew we worked hard.
Thursday is my rest day. Friday is our ab/core workout combined with a 2 mile treadmill run. I'm already dreading it. Anyone have some words of encouragement to get me through that torturous run????
Torrey Pines Tuesday
Kristin and I made plans to tackle the hill at Torrey Pines again. This time we were determined to run much further up the hill than last week. The weather was cold and was even a little drizzly. People were dressed in parkas and hats and there we were in our shorts and t-shirts freezing. We walked a bit to warm up and then began to run. We started our ascent. We made it to the point where we had to walk last time and we weren't tired so we kept on going. Kristin said "let's make it to that sign." In my head I wanted to say to her "here's your sign." HA! We made it to the sign and I felt so accomplished!! Unfortunately, I don't know how far up that was or how long it took us. I will need to remember that next time.
We walked a bit and then started running again to the next landmark (a tree). It felt great to do the intervals and run most of the way up. When we got to the top, I had to go to the bathroom so Kristin challenged us to sprint there. She's got these long legs and took off ahead of me. I couldn't get my short legs to go that fast and had a good laugh about that. At this point, we were definitely warm and not feeling so silly in our shorts and t-shirts.
After our mini-break, we continued our run up past part of the golf course. Before we started our return to the car, we calculated it took us 24 minutes one way and we burned 300 calories. We ran the rest of the way and I felt great! Our total run time was 45 minutes and 500 calories. Of course, we stretched at the end and it felt amazing.
Can't wait until next week to see how much further we can run up without stopping.
We walked a bit and then started running again to the next landmark (a tree). It felt great to do the intervals and run most of the way up. When we got to the top, I had to go to the bathroom so Kristin challenged us to sprint there. She's got these long legs and took off ahead of me. I couldn't get my short legs to go that fast and had a good laugh about that. At this point, we were definitely warm and not feeling so silly in our shorts and t-shirts.
After our mini-break, we continued our run up past part of the golf course. Before we started our return to the car, we calculated it took us 24 minutes one way and we burned 300 calories. We ran the rest of the way and I felt great! Our total run time was 45 minutes and 500 calories. Of course, we stretched at the end and it felt amazing.
Can't wait until next week to see how much further we can run up without stopping.
Monday
Monday we decided to focus on legs so we did a leg circuit. We did a lot of the usual exercises (lunges, weighted jump squats) mixed with cardio in between. The one new exercise we tried this time was the cup drill. Christine had done this with a trainer last year and thought it would be a good one to try. C brought 4 cups for each of us to use. Standing on one leg you must put one cup down at a time in a semi circle standing up after each cup. Without putting your foot down, you are to pick each cup up. It definitely makes the leg and butt burn. The left side was super easy for me because that's my stronger & longer leg. My right side was definitely more of a challenge and I found I had to touch the ground with my left foot every once in awhile to get my balance. This will be a good one to do each time to improve my balance!
Tomorrow is Torrey Pines Tuesday with Kristin!
Tomorrow is Torrey Pines Tuesday with Kristin!
Sunday, October 3, 2010
The Eminem Run - 8 miles
Some running days are better than others. Today was a not so good day. I was mentally tired from the start and the drizzle and fog made me feel heavy. The weather made our glasses steam up and it was hard to see. A couple times I thought we might trip and fall because I couldn't see if there were bumps on the sidewalk or even if I was near the curb. Usually I can get into a groove with my pace, but today I was just off. We chatted and shared our amusing stories from the week. It is pretty amazing being out on these runs because we get to talk about things that we wouldn't normally talk about.
Mentally I was struggling. How could I have run 7 miles last time and it seemed almost effortless and yet today, I was telling myself I couldn't do it? We even tried to analyze my day yesterday to figure out if I ate enough. After being at the soccer fields all day Saturday, I realized I hadn't eaten enough to sustain my energy for 8 miles. We changed up our course a little today so we weren't backtracking. Often times, I find backtracking to be emotionally draining so Christine found a new way for us to go.
While we were going the new way, I kept thinking maybe backtracking would have been better! There were some hills on this route which I know are important. I just felt like we were out in the middle of nowhere. Around mile 6 I realized how thirsty I felt. Suddenly it occurred to me I hadn't had water in days and my body was going to shrivel up and die (slight exaggeration). I looked around for drinking fountains and we even considered hopping into someone's yard and drinking from their hose. It was horrible!!! It was drizzling out, but not enough to catch in my mouth (yes, I tried). My hair had collected water and had turned into a big fro on the back of my head (do you remember Friends when Monica's hair poofed out from humidity?). C suggested I suck on my hair. Along the homestretch, I kept looking at the different stores and thinking up my sob story to tell them about how I needed water. Apparently C is a camel and didn't need water. She was so nice to listen to me complain about it.
We decided for the last mile or so we would listen to our music as a distraction. We made it to the light at Las Posas/Mission and I thought we were walking the rest of the way and I told her I knew the guy working at the gas station so maybe he can hook us up with water. She says to me "we're almost there, let's run to the light at the bottom of the hill." It was at that moment I thought she was trying to kill me (just kidding). We got to the 8 mile mark and walked the rest of the way back to our starting point.
This run was tough for me today. I didn't physically feel tired, but I did walk a few times along the way. I'm not going to get down on myself though because we did RUN up all the hills. We ran most of the way, but there were periods I just needed a rest.
Tomorrow we're doing a leg circuit at the gym. I get to try out my new Gym Boss!
Mentally I was struggling. How could I have run 7 miles last time and it seemed almost effortless and yet today, I was telling myself I couldn't do it? We even tried to analyze my day yesterday to figure out if I ate enough. After being at the soccer fields all day Saturday, I realized I hadn't eaten enough to sustain my energy for 8 miles. We changed up our course a little today so we weren't backtracking. Often times, I find backtracking to be emotionally draining so Christine found a new way for us to go.
While we were going the new way, I kept thinking maybe backtracking would have been better! There were some hills on this route which I know are important. I just felt like we were out in the middle of nowhere. Around mile 6 I realized how thirsty I felt. Suddenly it occurred to me I hadn't had water in days and my body was going to shrivel up and die (slight exaggeration). I looked around for drinking fountains and we even considered hopping into someone's yard and drinking from their hose. It was horrible!!! It was drizzling out, but not enough to catch in my mouth (yes, I tried). My hair had collected water and had turned into a big fro on the back of my head (do you remember Friends when Monica's hair poofed out from humidity?). C suggested I suck on my hair. Along the homestretch, I kept looking at the different stores and thinking up my sob story to tell them about how I needed water. Apparently C is a camel and didn't need water. She was so nice to listen to me complain about it.
We decided for the last mile or so we would listen to our music as a distraction. We made it to the light at Las Posas/Mission and I thought we were walking the rest of the way and I told her I knew the guy working at the gas station so maybe he can hook us up with water. She says to me "we're almost there, let's run to the light at the bottom of the hill." It was at that moment I thought she was trying to kill me (just kidding). We got to the 8 mile mark and walked the rest of the way back to our starting point.
This run was tough for me today. I didn't physically feel tired, but I did walk a few times along the way. I'm not going to get down on myself though because we did RUN up all the hills. We ran most of the way, but there were periods I just needed a rest.
Tomorrow we're doing a leg circuit at the gym. I get to try out my new Gym Boss!
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Hills
This morning I put on my iPod and headed outside. I still didn't have a plan in mind, but figured I would walk or run or do whatever my body wanted to do. There was no pressure to do a certain amount of miles. I started with my usual 5 minute warm up walk and when I got to the point where I normally run, I looked ahead and noticed a hill. So I said "why not?" and off I went. During the course of my run, I ran up 7 hills and walked/ran in between each hill to rest. On my way up each incline, I could see my shadow and let me say it was not a forgiving shadow watching my body trudge up those hills. That motivated me along with my LMFAO songs playing on my iPod. What I found while I was running in between the hills was that I went much faster when it was flat.
My total run was 49 minutes and I was tired and sweaty afterwards. The weather was hot and muggy and just plain gross. But boy did I feel accomplished afterwards! There was a time when I wouldn't go up any hills and now I'm finding them so necessary and a fun challenge. I certainly don't want to forget to mention that I stretched after my run. I walked for a few minutes to cool down at the end and then stretched when I got home. Kristin was right, it does feel really good!
Tomorrow is our 8 mile run at 6:30 a.m. Hopefully the humidity goes away before then.
My total run was 49 minutes and I was tired and sweaty afterwards. The weather was hot and muggy and just plain gross. But boy did I feel accomplished afterwards! There was a time when I wouldn't go up any hills and now I'm finding them so necessary and a fun challenge. I certainly don't want to forget to mention that I stretched after my run. I walked for a few minutes to cool down at the end and then stretched when I got home. Kristin was right, it does feel really good!
Tomorrow is our 8 mile run at 6:30 a.m. Hopefully the humidity goes away before then.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Gym Boss
I've been a slacker this week. Not slacking on my workouts, just with my blogging. Wednesday was our kettlebell workout. I was already sore from my hill running on Tuesday night, but I knew working out was the best thing to make my legs feel better. Holy hamstrings, were my legs sore on Thursday from our kettlebell workout. For some reason I expected to have sore arms, didn't expect my hamstrings to be sore. If you haven't tried kettlebells, DO IT! You can look online and Jillian Michaels has a youtube video of how to do a kettlebell workout.
Thursday was my rest day. My butt and legs reminded me all day that I worked hard on Tuesday and Wednesday so I didn't feel too guilty for taking the day off.
This morning started with an awesome surprise from my gym partner. For those that don't know, Christine has nicknamed me Gym Boss. Well she found a workout interval timer called the Gym Boss and got it for me! I'm sure she got it for more than the name though. I use my watch to time our intervals and get distracted when I'm timing us so we often will go long in some of our circuits. This will help keep us on track and it is a pretty pink color too. Can't wait to try it on Monday.
Today was our ab/core workout followed by a two mile treadmill run. Each time I run on the treadmill, I hate it more and more. Running on it is like running in place - going nowhere! At least outside there are distractions and beautiful scenery and I can see my progress. On the treadmill, time might as well stand still. Running is such a mental sport, but I feel like I get in my head more on the treadmill and try to talk myself into walking. Although it totally and completely sucked at the time, I was happy to have my workout and run done for the day.
I don't have a workout planned for Saturday, but I will do something. Check back to see what suited my fancy on Saturday.
Sunday morning is our 8 mile run. C mapped out a new route for us and I'm looking forward to trying it. I'm nervous about the 8 miles, but I know we can do it because we will support each other along the way.
Thursday was my rest day. My butt and legs reminded me all day that I worked hard on Tuesday and Wednesday so I didn't feel too guilty for taking the day off.
This morning started with an awesome surprise from my gym partner. For those that don't know, Christine has nicknamed me Gym Boss. Well she found a workout interval timer called the Gym Boss and got it for me! I'm sure she got it for more than the name though. I use my watch to time our intervals and get distracted when I'm timing us so we often will go long in some of our circuits. This will help keep us on track and it is a pretty pink color too. Can't wait to try it on Monday.
Today was our ab/core workout followed by a two mile treadmill run. Each time I run on the treadmill, I hate it more and more. Running on it is like running in place - going nowhere! At least outside there are distractions and beautiful scenery and I can see my progress. On the treadmill, time might as well stand still. Running is such a mental sport, but I feel like I get in my head more on the treadmill and try to talk myself into walking. Although it totally and completely sucked at the time, I was happy to have my workout and run done for the day.
I don't have a workout planned for Saturday, but I will do something. Check back to see what suited my fancy on Saturday.
Sunday morning is our 8 mile run. C mapped out a new route for us and I'm looking forward to trying it. I'm nervous about the 8 miles, but I know we can do it because we will support each other along the way.
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