I have never been a fan of the Runner's World Shoe Guide. In fact a good many running store folks feel the same way. I have made mention of this before, but I would like to detail why I am particularly unhappy with it today.
As I was reading the latest issue, there was a chart which details how "to find the right shoe for you." I thought to myself, "Wow this could actually be beneficial." I was wrong. The chart starts simply enough - Do you want a traditional or non-traditional shoe? By non-traditional, they mean minimal. In my mind I checked traditional.
Next they ask about mileage, a fair question. I checked I run about 18 miles a week. My other options were 18-24 and 24+. I thought those were odd numbers to post, but it's not my article.
I follow the 18 miles a week line to BMI - Body Mass Index. Yes, the size of the runner, can play a role in choosing a shoe. My choices were BMI of 25 or lower, or above 25. I am currently above 25. From here the lines will take you to the shoes.
Evidently if you are above 25 BMI, there is only one shoe for you - the Mizuno Alchemy. At this point I call BS and want to toss the latest Runner's World in the trash. Why BS? There were no questions about your gait. Oh there was the usual take the wet foot test to see what kind of arch you have(not all flat footed people overpronate), but nothing to detail the pronation, which is key to selecting a shoe.
The Alchemy is a fine shoe, and I sell that shoe with confidence. I sell it to people who overpronate quite a bit. I would never sell it to the person who supinates like no one else, because it would cause them to roll even further to the outside and hurt them. Where was my Brooks Dyad? It was in the under 25 BMI selections.
I won't even discuss the shoe reviews, which I gain little from. The problem is the writers at Runner's World are great writers, but they suck at helping you get the right shoe. They give terrific information on the technology of the shoe. In fact I like that information, but if you need a shoe, don't depend on the magazine who takes advertising money from the shoe companies and trust them 100%. Use their reviews as some back of the mind information, and get yourself properly fitted for shoes.
When you do get fitted for shoes, leave the Runner's World at home.
Charlie
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Monday, July 30, 2012
Back in the Saddle
Today was my first run since the Rock n Roll. It felt like....well like it should after a week of not running. I felt a bit sluggish and stiff as I headed out, but I got into a groove, and all was good. Today's run was nothing big. I ran 3.28 miles and kept the pace to around a 14 min/mile pace.
I thought about running yesterday, but I thought I should give it one more day. As always I think it's important to listen to your body, and not push anything when coming back from a race.
Now the plan is to up my normal runs, which have been 4 miles. I would like to have 5 or 6 mile runs be the norm, then a longer run one day a week. This is very doable. I just need to plan a bit more.
So there it is....back to running and feeling good. Now back to the Olympics!
Charlie
I thought about running yesterday, but I thought I should give it one more day. As always I think it's important to listen to your body, and not push anything when coming back from a race.
Now the plan is to up my normal runs, which have been 4 miles. I would like to have 5 or 6 mile runs be the norm, then a longer run one day a week. This is very doable. I just need to plan a bit more.
So there it is....back to running and feeling good. Now back to the Olympics!
Charlie
Friday, July 27, 2012
Cross Country Questions
This is the time of year kids are gearing up for cross country season. Parents are bringing them in and asking questions. I'm especially patient with parents of first time cross country kids, because they don't know. Here are some of the questions I answer.....
Will these shoes help them go faster?
Won't the shoes get dirty? Can I throw them in the wash?
Can he/she put their orthodic in the spike?
She likes pink, because it makes her look fast, do you have pink?
Why is the spike ugly?
Will this shoe cure their shin splints?
Does this shoe come in Nike?
Can I dye the spike in the school colors?
How much?
If he loses his shoes, will you replace them?
Now I see you are all shaking your heads, but I think it's tough for parents of first time cross country athletes, just as any other sport their kid chooses. There are a lot of questions. I still have to wonder though, especially the what happens if they lose the shoe.
For the record, the kids are always excited, and just listen as I talk to them about the shoes. Parents seem to be the nervous ones. Let the season begin.
Charlie
Will these shoes help them go faster?
Won't the shoes get dirty? Can I throw them in the wash?
Can he/she put their orthodic in the spike?
She likes pink, because it makes her look fast, do you have pink?
Why is the spike ugly?
Will this shoe cure their shin splints?
Does this shoe come in Nike?
Can I dye the spike in the school colors?
How much?
If he loses his shoes, will you replace them?
Now I see you are all shaking your heads, but I think it's tough for parents of first time cross country athletes, just as any other sport their kid chooses. There are a lot of questions. I still have to wonder though, especially the what happens if they lose the shoe.
For the record, the kids are always excited, and just listen as I talk to them about the shoes. Parents seem to be the nervous ones. Let the season begin.
Charlie
Thursday, July 26, 2012
What My Complaint Is
On Facebook I have come under attack from a few people for what they see as me whining about the Rock n Roll Chicago. They are under the impression that I am complaining about being stopped. In fact that is not what I am complaining about.
My issue is about the rules of the race, which I followed, but I believe race organizers did not. The rules according to the Competitor Group, the organizer of the race, is that the time limit for the course is 3:30. That clock on the time limit starts after the last person has crossed the start line, and not gun time.
I was in the last corral. We started before 6:50 am. Gun time was 6:30am. The 3:30 should have started around 6:50am. The blockade and buses stopped people around 10:00am, with the notice that they had to open traffic. This was 3:30 based on gun time, but not on chip time. We were also told no one would be allowed to finish, and yet there was no rolling stop as there normally is because hundreds of people finished after me, who were still on the course. No one pulled them off.
I have been stopped before, and I am sure will be stopped again. I understand that. I understand that if I am not keeping pace, them I risk being pulled off. This was not the case. I was on pace. I was ahead of pace. Somewhere the rules changed, and I think Competitor Group should explain it. They have been silent.
I won't speak anymore on this. I just wanted to be clear why I am angry.
Charlie
My issue is about the rules of the race, which I followed, but I believe race organizers did not. The rules according to the Competitor Group, the organizer of the race, is that the time limit for the course is 3:30. That clock on the time limit starts after the last person has crossed the start line, and not gun time.
I was in the last corral. We started before 6:50 am. Gun time was 6:30am. The 3:30 should have started around 6:50am. The blockade and buses stopped people around 10:00am, with the notice that they had to open traffic. This was 3:30 based on gun time, but not on chip time. We were also told no one would be allowed to finish, and yet there was no rolling stop as there normally is because hundreds of people finished after me, who were still on the course. No one pulled them off.
I have been stopped before, and I am sure will be stopped again. I understand that. I understand that if I am not keeping pace, them I risk being pulled off. This was not the case. I was on pace. I was ahead of pace. Somewhere the rules changed, and I think Competitor Group should explain it. They have been silent.
I won't speak anymore on this. I just wanted to be clear why I am angry.
Charlie
Looking Ahead
As I look ahead to my races for the rest of the year, I am only registered for another one - Mo'Cowbell Half Marathon on Oct. 7. If the goal is still to run three more, I want to be sure they are spaced out accordingly. Time is running out though, so I may need to re-assess and run 3 half marathons this year.
I can do the Monumental Half Marathon in November. I like that race quite a bit. It's nice and flat. November should be good weather wise....or will climate change make it 90 degrees that day?
Whatever I do, it is now part of an overall training plan for the Shamrock Marathon in March, 2013. I know I have to increase the miles I do, and these race help with that goal.
I had thought about running a half in September in Wisconsin, but it is two weeks before the Mo'Cowbell, and I am not sure my body can recover that quickly. Maybe I find one closer to the start of September?
Whatever the case, I am still feeling good about the running and the progress I am making.
Charlie
I can do the Monumental Half Marathon in November. I like that race quite a bit. It's nice and flat. November should be good weather wise....or will climate change make it 90 degrees that day?
Whatever I do, it is now part of an overall training plan for the Shamrock Marathon in March, 2013. I know I have to increase the miles I do, and these race help with that goal.
I had thought about running a half in September in Wisconsin, but it is two weeks before the Mo'Cowbell, and I am not sure my body can recover that quickly. Maybe I find one closer to the start of September?
Whatever the case, I am still feeling good about the running and the progress I am making.
Charlie
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
My Olympian Love Affair
With all due respect to Mark, there is a love affair I have had for 40 years. I love the Olympics. My Olympian love affair began in 1972 with the Sapporo Winter Olympics. I remember watching skating and ski jumping, and thinking how cool it all was.
Munich hosted the Summer Olympics that year, and it was a mixture of wonder and horror. I was glued to the TV as I watched Olga Korbut, Bruce Jenner, Frank Shorter and Mark Spitz It was simply awe inspiring to watch these athletes.
The horror as know was the raid on the Israeli athletes, by members of the Black September Palestinian terror group. Watching the events unfold was disturbing. Men in masks had invaded what was a celebration of peace and sport, and turned it into a nightmare. All the athletes died in a shoot out at the airport, and the Olympics mourned.
From the darkness of the 1972 Olympics, came the return of the celebration of sport with the 1976 Montreal Games. My love with the Olympics was forever solidified when my parents took me to the Games. I was in the stadium when Queen Elizabeth opened the Games. I watched Greg Louganis begin his quest for Olympic success. I was at The Forum when history was made as Nadia Commenci scored the first perfect score in gymnastics. We had a neighbor who won a Bronze medal in the backstroke. I actually got to see the medal(thrilling).
The 1984 Los Angeles Olympics were a huge spectacle of sport and pageantry. Mary Lou Retton, Carl Lewis, Jackie Joyner Kersee, Joan Benoit, Moses Malone, and so many more. I was in college at the time, and discovered the Olympics were a bonding event. I discovered other people loved watching as much as I did, as the student union was always packed with students watching the games, instead of going to our summer classes.
No matter the year, the season, for the 2+ weeks the Olympics are on, I am watching. I love the competition. I love the athlete profiles. I love the spectacle. I love it all. Whether it's curling, skating, track and field, gymnastics, or table tennis, I watch it all.
Time to get settled in for another Olympics. The love affair continues.
Charlie
Munich hosted the Summer Olympics that year, and it was a mixture of wonder and horror. I was glued to the TV as I watched Olga Korbut, Bruce Jenner, Frank Shorter and Mark Spitz It was simply awe inspiring to watch these athletes.
The horror as know was the raid on the Israeli athletes, by members of the Black September Palestinian terror group. Watching the events unfold was disturbing. Men in masks had invaded what was a celebration of peace and sport, and turned it into a nightmare. All the athletes died in a shoot out at the airport, and the Olympics mourned.
From the darkness of the 1972 Olympics, came the return of the celebration of sport with the 1976 Montreal Games. My love with the Olympics was forever solidified when my parents took me to the Games. I was in the stadium when Queen Elizabeth opened the Games. I watched Greg Louganis begin his quest for Olympic success. I was at The Forum when history was made as Nadia Commenci scored the first perfect score in gymnastics. We had a neighbor who won a Bronze medal in the backstroke. I actually got to see the medal(thrilling).
The 1984 Los Angeles Olympics were a huge spectacle of sport and pageantry. Mary Lou Retton, Carl Lewis, Jackie Joyner Kersee, Joan Benoit, Moses Malone, and so many more. I was in college at the time, and discovered the Olympics were a bonding event. I discovered other people loved watching as much as I did, as the student union was always packed with students watching the games, instead of going to our summer classes.
No matter the year, the season, for the 2+ weeks the Olympics are on, I am watching. I love the competition. I love the athlete profiles. I love the spectacle. I love it all. Whether it's curling, skating, track and field, gymnastics, or table tennis, I watch it all.
Time to get settled in for another Olympics. The love affair continues.
Charlie
Monday, July 23, 2012
Lessons Learned from Rock n Roll Chicago
Now that I have been bitter for one day about the experience in Chicago, time to take stock and see what I learned in this race.
1) I am building my miles well, but need to build a bit more for stamina. My basic is run is a 4 mile run, time to work on making that a 6 mile run.
2) Speed work. I need to work on speed work.
3) Nutrition. Time to re-evaluate what I eat, and come up with a better nutrition plan.
4) Hydration - I did an excellent job hydrating in the heat. Now I just have to keep doing what I have done. Note...I was never really thirsty in this race.
5) I'm not close to running a good half marathon. I can do a pretty mean 10K though.
6) Not sure I have 4 half marathons in my this year, but I may have 3.
7) I will most likely just do one marathon next year.
8) Core, core core....time to work on my core.
9) Course time limits....yes I know they exist, but make sure I know all the rules(BTW - I have filed a complaint with the Competitor Group, and they have not responded).
10) No more races in Chicago beyond a 5K.
Charlie
1) I am building my miles well, but need to build a bit more for stamina. My basic is run is a 4 mile run, time to work on making that a 6 mile run.
2) Speed work. I need to work on speed work.
3) Nutrition. Time to re-evaluate what I eat, and come up with a better nutrition plan.
4) Hydration - I did an excellent job hydrating in the heat. Now I just have to keep doing what I have done. Note...I was never really thirsty in this race.
5) I'm not close to running a good half marathon. I can do a pretty mean 10K though.
6) Not sure I have 4 half marathons in my this year, but I may have 3.
7) I will most likely just do one marathon next year.
8) Core, core core....time to work on my core.
9) Course time limits....yes I know they exist, but make sure I know all the rules(BTW - I have filed a complaint with the Competitor Group, and they have not responded).
10) No more races in Chicago beyond a 5K.
Charlie
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Dear Chicago
Dear Chicago,
I seem to have trouble completing races in your fair city. Correction, your races seem to have trouble letting me finish. In 2007 I was stopped at Mile 16 of the Chicago Marathon. There was no water on the course due to heat. I depressed about that race, but I understood the reasons behind stopping the race.
No we flash forward to today. Today I ran the Rock n Roll Chicago Half Marathon in conditions which were reminiscent of the ill fated Chicago Marathon. Temps started in the upper 70s as the sun came up over Lake Michigan. The day started fine. Got to the race, found my corral, and got a nice visit from an old friend - Miguel. Miguel and I worked for Southwest Airlines back in the day. In the last few years he has taken up running. It was so great to see him.
The race started and off we went. The heat was actually worse at the start than I thought it would be. Very quickly we go into a tunnel. The tunnel felt like a sauna as we ran through it. Once the course started weaving its way through the city, it felt hot, but not oppressive. The sun was out for a while, but soon clouds began to hide the sun.
I was feeling good, very good as I ran. I ran my first mile in 11:25, which is very fast. It didn't seem that fast, but I slowed down as soon as I saw that on my GPS. I soon got to my normal pace, and it all felt good.
As we got back into the Loop, I noticed a medical tent. I asked one of the med people if I could have some ice. That didn't go well. The woman told me I couldn't have ice, but if I wanted to be treated they would help me. I just wanted a couple of frickin cubes!!!! One of the volunteers at the water station gave me ice, and I out it in my bottle. It all felt good going down my throat, and was just what I needed.
My time was getting slower when I got to Mark between mile 6 and 7. He gave me NUUN, a bottle of water, and soon I was on my way. I felt good jogging along. I was still running more than walking, but I knew as I got into hour 2 I would be walking more.
Trouble happened as I approached mile 10. At this point it was 2:45 in my race, and I saw a motor coach block the street. We were told that traffic had to open up, so we needed to board the bus. One guy got loose from a police officer and ran. We had not choice we had to get on the bus. The bus drove us to a point where we were let out so we could "finish" the race and get our medal.
The damage was done. I was already depressed. I was about to get another medal I hadn't earned. I crossed the line, got my medal, and made sure I got plenty to eat and drink(especially the chocolate milk). Once I saw Mark I started to cry, and comforted me. It was another Chicago race I was not allowed to finish.
I have looked at the rules of the race. According to organizers, the course limit is 3:30, based, not on gun time, but on chip time, and the clock starts when the last person crosses the start line. Remember I was stopped at 2:45, and there were people behind me. I had 5K to go. I believe someone pulled the plug early. I would have run the last 5K in 40 minutes and got in under the 3:30.
So my dear former city, I have made an important decision. I will no longer run long distance races in your city. I was planning on the Chicago Marathon next year, but no more. You can have your races and screw people out of finishing. You have screwed me for the last time.
I wish you luck with your races, just know the city of Chicago is a black pit of racing for this runner.
Sincerely,
Charlie
I seem to have trouble completing races in your fair city. Correction, your races seem to have trouble letting me finish. In 2007 I was stopped at Mile 16 of the Chicago Marathon. There was no water on the course due to heat. I depressed about that race, but I understood the reasons behind stopping the race.
No we flash forward to today. Today I ran the Rock n Roll Chicago Half Marathon in conditions which were reminiscent of the ill fated Chicago Marathon. Temps started in the upper 70s as the sun came up over Lake Michigan. The day started fine. Got to the race, found my corral, and got a nice visit from an old friend - Miguel. Miguel and I worked for Southwest Airlines back in the day. In the last few years he has taken up running. It was so great to see him.
The race started and off we went. The heat was actually worse at the start than I thought it would be. Very quickly we go into a tunnel. The tunnel felt like a sauna as we ran through it. Once the course started weaving its way through the city, it felt hot, but not oppressive. The sun was out for a while, but soon clouds began to hide the sun.
I was feeling good, very good as I ran. I ran my first mile in 11:25, which is very fast. It didn't seem that fast, but I slowed down as soon as I saw that on my GPS. I soon got to my normal pace, and it all felt good.
As we got back into the Loop, I noticed a medical tent. I asked one of the med people if I could have some ice. That didn't go well. The woman told me I couldn't have ice, but if I wanted to be treated they would help me. I just wanted a couple of frickin cubes!!!! One of the volunteers at the water station gave me ice, and I out it in my bottle. It all felt good going down my throat, and was just what I needed.
My time was getting slower when I got to Mark between mile 6 and 7. He gave me NUUN, a bottle of water, and soon I was on my way. I felt good jogging along. I was still running more than walking, but I knew as I got into hour 2 I would be walking more.
Trouble happened as I approached mile 10. At this point it was 2:45 in my race, and I saw a motor coach block the street. We were told that traffic had to open up, so we needed to board the bus. One guy got loose from a police officer and ran. We had not choice we had to get on the bus. The bus drove us to a point where we were let out so we could "finish" the race and get our medal.
The damage was done. I was already depressed. I was about to get another medal I hadn't earned. I crossed the line, got my medal, and made sure I got plenty to eat and drink(especially the chocolate milk). Once I saw Mark I started to cry, and comforted me. It was another Chicago race I was not allowed to finish.
I have looked at the rules of the race. According to organizers, the course limit is 3:30, based, not on gun time, but on chip time, and the clock starts when the last person crosses the start line. Remember I was stopped at 2:45, and there were people behind me. I had 5K to go. I believe someone pulled the plug early. I would have run the last 5K in 40 minutes and got in under the 3:30.
So my dear former city, I have made an important decision. I will no longer run long distance races in your city. I was planning on the Chicago Marathon next year, but no more. You can have your races and screw people out of finishing. You have screwed me for the last time.
I wish you luck with your races, just know the city of Chicago is a black pit of racing for this runner.
Sincerely,
Charlie
Saturday, July 21, 2012
The Night Before
Tomorrow at 6:30 am, a few thousand of my closest friends and I will be running the Rock n Roll Chicago Half Marathon. Am I ready? Yes. Am I stressed? Yes. My biggest concern is getting there, and making sure Mark is where he needs to be between mile 6 and 7.
It's been a long day - the expo was nice, seeing my good friend George was wonderful, now we are about to have dinner with Mark's family. A little pasta is on the menu, but nothing too big or filling.
I hate the night before a race like this. In my head I play out too much of what to do before the race, and what to do during the race. Sadly it doesn't turn off. Now all I want is a nice dinner, and to go to bed early, and hopefully sleep ok.
For those who want to track me go to..... https://www.competitorwireless.com/ my bib number is 29703
Will report after the race.
Charlie
It's been a long day - the expo was nice, seeing my good friend George was wonderful, now we are about to have dinner with Mark's family. A little pasta is on the menu, but nothing too big or filling.
I hate the night before a race like this. In my head I play out too much of what to do before the race, and what to do during the race. Sadly it doesn't turn off. Now all I want is a nice dinner, and to go to bed early, and hopefully sleep ok.
For those who want to track me go to..... https://www.competitorwireless.com/ my bib number is 29703
Will report after the race.
Charlie
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Rock n Roll Chicago - The Plan
I like to talk about my race plans, because it helps me keep it in my head as I get ready, and as I run the race, I can go over it again and again. Let's start with the ...start. Weather for the day is sunny, and the start time temperature is going to be 76. That isn't the high....that is the low for the day. So at the start, the key is not to go out too fast. This is always problematic at the start of the race because you want to get going. Still I will be mixed in with walkers, so I have to remember not to get anxious and do the bob and weave. Just head out steady and wait for a thinning out.
As I wind through the Loop, I can pick it up a bit, but I want to maintain more even pacing. I want to save myself for what will come at the half way point....the Sun. Once we get closer to the lake then the heat will really by going. If I can get to the halfway point at 1:35 I will be doing pretty good.
I know as the heat settles in I will be going slower. My walk breaks will be more frequent. If I was going at around 14min/mile pace in the first half, I don't want to get beyond 16min/mile pace in the second half. Easier said than done.
My PR is 2:45. I won't be coming close to that on race day. With the heat and current fitness level, I am shooting for 3:15-3:20. That maybe a bit tough, but I won't sweat it if I can't hit it. Again....heat is the major factor.
I will be armed with the Gu and NUUN. I just have to remember not to hit a point where I am thirsty, that is when I am already dehydrated. Mark will meet me at the halfway to make sure I am doing okay. Next time I see him, I will be crossing the finish line.
Not sure about running with the iPod that day. I will have it ready, but not really feeling I want noise in my head.
So there's the plan. Steady and hydrated are the keys to race success on Sunday.
Charlie
As I wind through the Loop, I can pick it up a bit, but I want to maintain more even pacing. I want to save myself for what will come at the half way point....the Sun. Once we get closer to the lake then the heat will really by going. If I can get to the halfway point at 1:35 I will be doing pretty good.
I know as the heat settles in I will be going slower. My walk breaks will be more frequent. If I was going at around 14min/mile pace in the first half, I don't want to get beyond 16min/mile pace in the second half. Easier said than done.
My PR is 2:45. I won't be coming close to that on race day. With the heat and current fitness level, I am shooting for 3:15-3:20. That maybe a bit tough, but I won't sweat it if I can't hit it. Again....heat is the major factor.
I will be armed with the Gu and NUUN. I just have to remember not to hit a point where I am thirsty, that is when I am already dehydrated. Mark will meet me at the halfway to make sure I am doing okay. Next time I see him, I will be crossing the finish line.
Not sure about running with the iPod that day. I will have it ready, but not really feeling I want noise in my head.
So there's the plan. Steady and hydrated are the keys to race success on Sunday.
Charlie
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Style vs Function
By now you have read my many tirades about picking shoes based on anything but function, and yet I am still amazed when someone tells me they can't possibly wear a comfortable shoe, because they don't like the color. Yeah, I get that running shoe styles are an off batch of looks. I get that the colors we want aren't always what we get.
I suppose I look at it differently because of how I run, and how I came to running. Running is difficult for me, so I am so excited to find a shoe that works for me, and allows me to do the thing I love to do, that even if it were purple, I would suck it up and run in it. Maybe I am too harsh on some of my fellow runners?
Maybe I should look at it from their eyes? They want it all. They want to run comfortably and have the cool looking shoe. I would like that. The Dyad IF it fits like the older ones, is a great looking shoe. I may in fact have that combination of style and function.
But in the end, function will win with me. It will always win with me. It doesn't matter to me if the shoe shoots out fireworks as I run, if it doesn't work function wise, then it is useless to me.
I do appreciate a cool looking shoe though. I think it would be cool to walk around in the Five Fingers, which I think look great. I just know the pain I would be in if I wore them.
Maybe the problem for me is that I don't have "normal feet? Maybe I am secretly envious of the style people, because they have options I don't? That may be part of it. In the end though I go back to what I sometimes tell runners, at mile 20 you won't care what color your shoe is.
Charlie
I suppose I look at it differently because of how I run, and how I came to running. Running is difficult for me, so I am so excited to find a shoe that works for me, and allows me to do the thing I love to do, that even if it were purple, I would suck it up and run in it. Maybe I am too harsh on some of my fellow runners?
Maybe I should look at it from their eyes? They want it all. They want to run comfortably and have the cool looking shoe. I would like that. The Dyad IF it fits like the older ones, is a great looking shoe. I may in fact have that combination of style and function.
But in the end, function will win with me. It will always win with me. It doesn't matter to me if the shoe shoots out fireworks as I run, if it doesn't work function wise, then it is useless to me.
I do appreciate a cool looking shoe though. I think it would be cool to walk around in the Five Fingers, which I think look great. I just know the pain I would be in if I wore them.
Maybe the problem for me is that I don't have "normal feet? Maybe I am secretly envious of the style people, because they have options I don't? That may be part of it. In the end though I go back to what I sometimes tell runners, at mile 20 you won't care what color your shoe is.
Charlie
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Rock n Roll Chicago - The Course
As I have studied the map of the course for this race, I see familiar runs of the past for half of it. The start is the same start as the Chicago Marathon. Grant Park is an ideal place to send runners on their trek around the city. From there you head north to what is known as the River North neighborhood. This is a lot of condos and shopping, as you are just off the Mag Mile.
Soon you are heading back into the Loop. For those who don't know the CTA trains loop around this part of the city, hence the nickname. This part of the course is mostly businesses, so there are two things for sure: plenty of shade, and fewer spectators.
From the Loop you head west across the Chicago River. This is an up and coming part of town. Condos and shops are popping up, in what was, and still is, an industrial part of town. The University of Illinois Chicago is out this way, as is Greektown. I imagine at this point we will begin to feel the heat of the day.
The course winds its way back into the Loop, but not for long. Soon, we head south along Michigan Ave and are making our way to the South Side. Condos galore have transformed this area. Trust me 20 years ago this part of town was not somewhere you wanted to be. According to the map, it looks like we may be venturing into Chinatown.
Heading East, we make our way to Chicago's Lakefront. This is my favorite place to run in Chicago. I have written about my fondness for the Lakefront. It doesn't look like we will be on the Lakefront Path, but a road hugging it. I would prefer that. This will be where the sun will hit us hard, and the heat of the day will really be on us. I suspect this will be where I am slowest.
We head North and on our way to the finish, which is the finish line for the Chicago Marathon, back in Grant Park. Millions won't be out to cheer us on, but I suspect there will be terrific crowd support.
Later this week I will talk about my plan for the race.
Charlie
Soon you are heading back into the Loop. For those who don't know the CTA trains loop around this part of the city, hence the nickname. This part of the course is mostly businesses, so there are two things for sure: plenty of shade, and fewer spectators.
From the Loop you head west across the Chicago River. This is an up and coming part of town. Condos and shops are popping up, in what was, and still is, an industrial part of town. The University of Illinois Chicago is out this way, as is Greektown. I imagine at this point we will begin to feel the heat of the day.
The course winds its way back into the Loop, but not for long. Soon, we head south along Michigan Ave and are making our way to the South Side. Condos galore have transformed this area. Trust me 20 years ago this part of town was not somewhere you wanted to be. According to the map, it looks like we may be venturing into Chinatown.
Heading East, we make our way to Chicago's Lakefront. This is my favorite place to run in Chicago. I have written about my fondness for the Lakefront. It doesn't look like we will be on the Lakefront Path, but a road hugging it. I would prefer that. This will be where the sun will hit us hard, and the heat of the day will really be on us. I suspect this will be where I am slowest.
We head North and on our way to the finish, which is the finish line for the Chicago Marathon, back in Grant Park. Millions won't be out to cheer us on, but I suspect there will be terrific crowd support.
Later this week I will talk about my plan for the race.
Charlie
Sunday, July 15, 2012
Mentally Preparing
There are two parts to training for a race: the physical and the mental. The physical is basic knowledge at this point. You figure a plan to slowly build your endurance and/or speed to be able to run a long distance. The mental is different.
Preparing mentally for a race is very different. The first thing I do when I am getting ready for a race is review the course map(if there is one available). On a wall at work I currently have three maps taped to it: Rock n Roll Chicago Half , Mo'Cowbell Half and Shamrock Marathon. I look at them every day and I study them. I want to try to visualize as best I can what the course is like. This way when I encounter it for real, I feel like I have a handle on it.
For a race with varying elevations this is especially important. If you know a hill begins around mile 10, you are mentally ready for it. In Portland, I knew a massive hill would be around mile 15, so when I saw it, I didn't mentally say to myself, "Crap now what?" Instead, I said, "Crap there it is let's go." Big difference.
As I do my long runs, I try to place myself at various spots along the race, and how I am feeling. The thought behind that again is no surprises. If I experience something on my long run, and I mentally noting that this could happen at mile 4 of a race, I am better prepared for it when it happens.
The mental training is also good for when you want to quit. My two hours the other day could have ended sooner, but my brain told me that two hours is still two hours, and if I accomplish fewer miles, I can live with that. Again, this is something I have encountered in almost every race. Portland was the only race my brain wanted me to quit, but I knew I had to push on.
In a long distance race, your brain is your worst enemy. You have to trick it or make deals with it. Sometimes it's "Ok I run until that light down the street, then I walk a couple blocks." Other times it's "You've got to do this, it's the only way to get home." You figure these things out, and your brain doesn't like it, but it will get you through everything.
I also mentally prepare for the end of a race. I don't want to drag at end, I want to be strong. My goal is to run across the finish line. Even if I am physically spent, mentally, I am pumping myself up for one more dash. The Olympics usually play a part in this, as I imagine I am at the end of an Olympic race, and if I don't cross the line, I lose the Gold. So in essence I am telling myself to go for the Gold.
Do what you can to strengthen you mind as you train, and you will be rewarded in each race.
Charlie
Preparing mentally for a race is very different. The first thing I do when I am getting ready for a race is review the course map(if there is one available). On a wall at work I currently have three maps taped to it: Rock n Roll Chicago Half , Mo'Cowbell Half and Shamrock Marathon. I look at them every day and I study them. I want to try to visualize as best I can what the course is like. This way when I encounter it for real, I feel like I have a handle on it.
For a race with varying elevations this is especially important. If you know a hill begins around mile 10, you are mentally ready for it. In Portland, I knew a massive hill would be around mile 15, so when I saw it, I didn't mentally say to myself, "Crap now what?" Instead, I said, "Crap there it is let's go." Big difference.
As I do my long runs, I try to place myself at various spots along the race, and how I am feeling. The thought behind that again is no surprises. If I experience something on my long run, and I mentally noting that this could happen at mile 4 of a race, I am better prepared for it when it happens.
The mental training is also good for when you want to quit. My two hours the other day could have ended sooner, but my brain told me that two hours is still two hours, and if I accomplish fewer miles, I can live with that. Again, this is something I have encountered in almost every race. Portland was the only race my brain wanted me to quit, but I knew I had to push on.
In a long distance race, your brain is your worst enemy. You have to trick it or make deals with it. Sometimes it's "Ok I run until that light down the street, then I walk a couple blocks." Other times it's "You've got to do this, it's the only way to get home." You figure these things out, and your brain doesn't like it, but it will get you through everything.
I also mentally prepare for the end of a race. I don't want to drag at end, I want to be strong. My goal is to run across the finish line. Even if I am physically spent, mentally, I am pumping myself up for one more dash. The Olympics usually play a part in this, as I imagine I am at the end of an Olympic race, and if I don't cross the line, I lose the Gold. So in essence I am telling myself to go for the Gold.
Do what you can to strengthen you mind as you train, and you will be rewarded in each race.
Charlie
Friday, July 13, 2012
Sometimes We Walk
Today was a two hour planned run, as a final long run before next week's Rock n Roll Chicago. The original plan was to get up early and run. Well last night we celebrated Mark's birthday with Chinese food, and wow, did I feel like I ate all of Shanghai. I didn't feel well this morning, so I postponed until this afternoon.
What I should have done was wait to a longish run on Sunday. I ran about 2 miles of the run, and walked the rest. Overall I did 6.63 miles, and I felt horrible. My stomach was still coping with the effects from last night's dinner.
The walking was fine, I just couldn't run. Let me restate, the walking was fine until the heat got to me, then I felt like crap.
Maybe this is like the old theater adage....bad dress rehearsal, terrific opening night? At least I know I can do a pretty quick walk on race day if I need to.
Charlie
What I should have done was wait to a longish run on Sunday. I ran about 2 miles of the run, and walked the rest. Overall I did 6.63 miles, and I felt horrible. My stomach was still coping with the effects from last night's dinner.
The walking was fine, I just couldn't run. Let me restate, the walking was fine until the heat got to me, then I felt like crap.
Maybe this is like the old theater adage....bad dress rehearsal, terrific opening night? At least I know I can do a pretty quick walk on race day if I need to.
Charlie
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
A Good Day
Today was a good day for a couple of main reasons. First I had my annual review at work. To be honest I hate performance reviews. I still have memories of the arcane scoring system Southwest Airlines used. Those East German judges always scored me low.
This one was fine. One of the areas I was cited for was my work within the community. Talking to the public about running is one of my favorite things to do at work. I have also been building a core group of people to our weekly fun runs. It was nice to be recognized for my work in this area.
Today was also the day I committed to a marathon for 2013. I will run the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon in Virginia Beach on St. Patrick's Day.
http://www.shamrockmarathon.com/
This is a race I have wanted to do for a while. It will be my first Spring marathon, which means training in the winter.....yikes! It is a flat race, which is a good thing. The course runs along the Atlantic Ocean. It's on St. Paddy's Day, and it's sponsored by a beer....1+1=Fun!
In other news....
I am now 11 days from the half marathon. My goal for Friday is the run two hours, and see how I feel. So far the running is going well....so cross your fingers.
Charlie
This one was fine. One of the areas I was cited for was my work within the community. Talking to the public about running is one of my favorite things to do at work. I have also been building a core group of people to our weekly fun runs. It was nice to be recognized for my work in this area.
Today was also the day I committed to a marathon for 2013. I will run the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon in Virginia Beach on St. Patrick's Day.
http://www.shamrockmarathon.com/
This is a race I have wanted to do for a while. It will be my first Spring marathon, which means training in the winter.....yikes! It is a flat race, which is a good thing. The course runs along the Atlantic Ocean. It's on St. Paddy's Day, and it's sponsored by a beer....1+1=Fun!
In other news....
I am now 11 days from the half marathon. My goal for Friday is the run two hours, and see how I feel. So far the running is going well....so cross your fingers.
Charlie
Monday, July 09, 2012
What's The Best?
I have talked about this before, and I will talk about it again, but with the running season in high gear, I think I need to address this. There is no best shoe or best shoe brand. Sorry.....there is no such thing.
On a daily basis I get asked which is the best shoe, or is this brand better than all the others. There is no way to answer a question like that except to say that it depends if you think the shoe is the best for you. Think of a shoe as a wheel. All the brands have basically reinvented their version of the wheel.
Asics uses gel for its cushioning. Nike uses air or a foam rubber compound. New Balance uses Abzorb a foam/rubber they developed. Brooks uses Bio MoGo, an environmentally friendly foam and rubber process. Mizuno has wave plates. Saucony has a pro grid or power grid cushion system. Adidas has AdiPrene another foam/rubber development.
Some are cushy soft cushioning systems. Others are firmer. There is no best. It is what works best for you. Runner's World gives advice when they review shoes. Take what they tell you with a grain of salt. Consider this....the magazine is supported by the very brands they are reviewing.
Take my usual advice, get your gait analyzed and try on shoes to see which works best for you. What ever works the best will be the best shoe for you.
Charlie
On a daily basis I get asked which is the best shoe, or is this brand better than all the others. There is no way to answer a question like that except to say that it depends if you think the shoe is the best for you. Think of a shoe as a wheel. All the brands have basically reinvented their version of the wheel.
Asics uses gel for its cushioning. Nike uses air or a foam rubber compound. New Balance uses Abzorb a foam/rubber they developed. Brooks uses Bio MoGo, an environmentally friendly foam and rubber process. Mizuno has wave plates. Saucony has a pro grid or power grid cushion system. Adidas has AdiPrene another foam/rubber development.
Some are cushy soft cushioning systems. Others are firmer. There is no best. It is what works best for you. Runner's World gives advice when they review shoes. Take what they tell you with a grain of salt. Consider this....the magazine is supported by the very brands they are reviewing.
Take my usual advice, get your gait analyzed and try on shoes to see which works best for you. What ever works the best will be the best shoe for you.
Charlie
Sunday, July 08, 2012
On Pins and Needles
Like most runners I have a shoe I have to wear. For me it's the Brooks Dyad. This is not a flashy shoe. In fact, it's about as orthopedic a looking shoe as you will ever see. What I like about it is it comes in my 4E width, and it has a solid heel. Because I supinate like nobody's business, I been a strong heel.
Sooooo.....Brooks has finally tinkered with the Dyad. I knew this day would come. I have not tried one on in my size yet, but I am worried, because it appears to have a softer heel. I may have to do what thousands of others before me have done - corner the market on the old version.
I am waiting on pins and needles to see what this version will bring.
Yikes!
Charlie
Sooooo.....Brooks has finally tinkered with the Dyad. I knew this day would come. I have not tried one on in my size yet, but I am worried, because it appears to have a softer heel. I may have to do what thousands of others before me have done - corner the market on the old version.
I am waiting on pins and needles to see what this version will bring.
Yikes!
Charlie
Saturday, July 07, 2012
A Love Letter to Fall
Dear Fall,
I've been thinking about you a lot this last month. You see you are my favorite season of the four. Spring is pretty. Winter is a wonderland. Summer is...well HOTTER THAN HELL AND I HATE IT!
You, my dear Fall, are chill in the air on a sunny day. You are the season where colors of red, yellow and orange fill the landscape. You are the season where the leaves rustle as we walk among the fallen ones.
As a runner, I love you, because I just head out on a run, and feel comfortable and happy. There is no pouring of sweat in Fall. There is no wondering when will I hit the next water area. I can ease into a Fall run.
I love you Fall. Even now as I am trapped in 100 degree HELL for what must be the 1,000th day this year. I will take a 40 or 50 degree Fall day, any day. Fall I miss you.
I know you will be here in a few short months, but now as I mop my brow, sweltering in the heat, it feels like an eternity until I see you. Maybe you could visit me early this year? Maybe?
Think about it Fall, come soon, and make this lover of Autumn a happy man.
Love,
Charlie
I've been thinking about you a lot this last month. You see you are my favorite season of the four. Spring is pretty. Winter is a wonderland. Summer is...well HOTTER THAN HELL AND I HATE IT!
You, my dear Fall, are chill in the air on a sunny day. You are the season where colors of red, yellow and orange fill the landscape. You are the season where the leaves rustle as we walk among the fallen ones.
As a runner, I love you, because I just head out on a run, and feel comfortable and happy. There is no pouring of sweat in Fall. There is no wondering when will I hit the next water area. I can ease into a Fall run.
I love you Fall. Even now as I am trapped in 100 degree HELL for what must be the 1,000th day this year. I will take a 40 or 50 degree Fall day, any day. Fall I miss you.
I know you will be here in a few short months, but now as I mop my brow, sweltering in the heat, it feels like an eternity until I see you. Maybe you could visit me early this year? Maybe?
Think about it Fall, come soon, and make this lover of Autumn a happy man.
Love,
Charlie
Friday, July 06, 2012
What is Working
So as I assess how I did at the race on July 4th, I am struck by what is working in my running. First, my dedicated 3 days a week has been dedicated and 3 days a week. Rarely have I been off that schedule. Now it may not be the same 3 days each week, but I am getting them in.
Second, I have built a good solid base of running an hour each time I run a regular run. Yes, there have been exceptions to this, for instance the oppressive heat of 100 degree days for weeks has led me to some shorter runs.
Third, Glucosamine. I swear this has made a difference to me. I am not waking up with joint stiffness in the mornings as much now.
Fourth, I have been watching my pace, and really sticking to a plan to run for 6 minutes and walk for 1 minute. The heat again plays a factor, as I lessened that during the Firecracker 6.
Fifth, I am really enjoying my running. This is the most important factor. If you aren't enjoying the running, the first 4 points don't matter.
So do I change anything as I gear up for the Rock n Roll Chicago? Yes, my longest run over the next couple weeks is going to be a two hour run. I know if I can run a two hour run, I can do three, which will cover most of the half marathon distance. If I have to go slower in the heat...so be it.
Speaking of the heat....it would be nice if Fall could come early this year.
Charlie
Second, I have built a good solid base of running an hour each time I run a regular run. Yes, there have been exceptions to this, for instance the oppressive heat of 100 degree days for weeks has led me to some shorter runs.
Third, Glucosamine. I swear this has made a difference to me. I am not waking up with joint stiffness in the mornings as much now.
Fourth, I have been watching my pace, and really sticking to a plan to run for 6 minutes and walk for 1 minute. The heat again plays a factor, as I lessened that during the Firecracker 6.
Fifth, I am really enjoying my running. This is the most important factor. If you aren't enjoying the running, the first 4 points don't matter.
So do I change anything as I gear up for the Rock n Roll Chicago? Yes, my longest run over the next couple weeks is going to be a two hour run. I know if I can run a two hour run, I can do three, which will cover most of the half marathon distance. If I have to go slower in the heat...so be it.
Speaking of the heat....it would be nice if Fall could come early this year.
Charlie
Thursday, July 05, 2012
Don't Run
It happens now and again, mostly at my job, and I am still confused by it. I meet people who run who tell me they don't like running. They either think its hard, or boring, or just not what they like to do. My usual response is, "Why are you running?"
The responses usually range from, "because" to "I need to exercise." No matter where I have been when I have heard this, I have said the same thing, "If you don't like running, don't run." Yes, the shoe guy who makes a living selling the running lifestyle, has told people not to run. In my mind there is no reason to do something over and over again if you don't like it. Running more isn't going to get you to like it. In fact, it may annoy you even more.
There are so many things to do activity wise in this world. You can bike, swim, walk, row, play golf, play tennis, skip, bowl, and the list goes on and on. Try something else. Who cares if everyone in your family runs, and you don't like it. Go do what you want to do. It doesn't matter if all your friends are doing it, and so should you. No lemmings here....go do something else.
I don't like fantasy games. I have friends and family who think they are THE thing to do, and if I just gave it a chance I would love it. I have, and I don't, but that doesn't mean they shouldn't continue to enjoy those things. This is a simple one....if you don't like running, don't run. I will insist that you do something you do enjoy.
Charlie
The responses usually range from, "because" to "I need to exercise." No matter where I have been when I have heard this, I have said the same thing, "If you don't like running, don't run." Yes, the shoe guy who makes a living selling the running lifestyle, has told people not to run. In my mind there is no reason to do something over and over again if you don't like it. Running more isn't going to get you to like it. In fact, it may annoy you even more.
There are so many things to do activity wise in this world. You can bike, swim, walk, row, play golf, play tennis, skip, bowl, and the list goes on and on. Try something else. Who cares if everyone in your family runs, and you don't like it. Go do what you want to do. It doesn't matter if all your friends are doing it, and so should you. No lemmings here....go do something else.
I don't like fantasy games. I have friends and family who think they are THE thing to do, and if I just gave it a chance I would love it. I have, and I don't, but that doesn't mean they shouldn't continue to enjoy those things. This is a simple one....if you don't like running, don't run. I will insist that you do something you do enjoy.
Charlie
Wednesday, July 04, 2012
Firecracker 6 - HOT Run in Indy
This morning I ran the annual Firecracker 6. This is a six mile race through downtown Indianapolis. As I wrote a couple days ago, I had a plan, so here is how the plan went.
This morning I had a large glass of NUUN so I would be hydrated at the start. I had a small bowl of raisin bran for breakfast, and a small coffee. I didn't take the Gu prior as I thought I would, as I thought the cereal was good enough.
At the start, the temps were already in the upper 70s. I was starting with my friend Kris. We had done the inaugural race in 2010. So we were familiar with the course. There is some shade, but after mile 4, you are in blazing sun for the last two miles.
At the start I felt good, off we went. At my first walk break Kris went on, and I told her I would see her at the finish. The first mile was fairly shaded, so I went a bit quicker than I thought I would. 12:38 at Mile 1.
As shade grew scarce, I put the next part of my plan in effect. Go at an even pace. Don't push, just take it easy. When there was shade I would quicken, in the hot sun, I would go a bit slower. Mile 2 - 13:32.
Mile 3 is when you are about to leave downtown, and head south towards the Fountain Square area. This is an industrial part of town, so little shade. Going slower was necessary. At this point I was still running 6 minutes and walking 1 minute. Time - 14:26.
Mile 4-6 was about the heat. At this point I was walking more. My plan was I would walk from one traffic light to the next, then I would run from that light to the next light. I called this "tough it to the light. " Mile 4 - 15:29, Mile 5 - 15:49.
The finish was a straight shot down Delaware Ave. I was running more. I wanted to finish strong. My PR was 1:24. I was expecting 1:35 today. As I ran I kept telling myself to keep it under 1:30. I crossed the finish line with Kris, her husband Mike, and Mark cheering at 1:26:12. I felt pleased with the time, considering the heat was around 90 when I finished.
Keys to success: never got thirsty, stayed hydrated, kept to my plan of not pushing hard, and getting tough to the light. I don't know if I could have run a half marathon today, but that will be soon enough.
For now....Happy 4th!
Charlie
This morning I had a large glass of NUUN so I would be hydrated at the start. I had a small bowl of raisin bran for breakfast, and a small coffee. I didn't take the Gu prior as I thought I would, as I thought the cereal was good enough.
At the start, the temps were already in the upper 70s. I was starting with my friend Kris. We had done the inaugural race in 2010. So we were familiar with the course. There is some shade, but after mile 4, you are in blazing sun for the last two miles.
At the start I felt good, off we went. At my first walk break Kris went on, and I told her I would see her at the finish. The first mile was fairly shaded, so I went a bit quicker than I thought I would. 12:38 at Mile 1.
As shade grew scarce, I put the next part of my plan in effect. Go at an even pace. Don't push, just take it easy. When there was shade I would quicken, in the hot sun, I would go a bit slower. Mile 2 - 13:32.
Mile 3 is when you are about to leave downtown, and head south towards the Fountain Square area. This is an industrial part of town, so little shade. Going slower was necessary. At this point I was still running 6 minutes and walking 1 minute. Time - 14:26.
Mile 4-6 was about the heat. At this point I was walking more. My plan was I would walk from one traffic light to the next, then I would run from that light to the next light. I called this "tough it to the light. " Mile 4 - 15:29, Mile 5 - 15:49.
The finish was a straight shot down Delaware Ave. I was running more. I wanted to finish strong. My PR was 1:24. I was expecting 1:35 today. As I ran I kept telling myself to keep it under 1:30. I crossed the finish line with Kris, her husband Mike, and Mark cheering at 1:26:12. I felt pleased with the time, considering the heat was around 90 when I finished.
Keys to success: never got thirsty, stayed hydrated, kept to my plan of not pushing hard, and getting tough to the light. I don't know if I could have run a half marathon today, but that will be soon enough.
For now....Happy 4th!
Charlie
Tuesday, July 03, 2012
You Know You're Runner If.....
With apologies to Jeff Foxworthy.....
You know you're a runner if.....
a weekend conversation with friends includes the phrase, "I just ran 15 miles today."
you think a great birthday gift to get is socks or Gu.
you are planning a vacation around a marathon.
you use the term Fartlek, and non-runners think you are talking about passing gas.
you put a date on your shoes so you know when you first used them.
you have more medals than Michael Phelps.
you hum the Chariots of Fire theme song during a run.
you own Body Glide or Nipguards.
family and friends ask you to skip running a marathon this year.
dinner reservations are pushed back because you want to get 5 miles in.
put your running gear in the carry on, so the airline won't lose them.
you have a slavish devotion to your shoes.
you cry when you hear they made some "changes" to your shoes.
you go online and corner the market on the old version of your shoes, because you heard they made "changes" to your shoes.
you know Five Fingers is not a sex toy.
Please feel free to add more.
Charlie
You know you're a runner if.....
a weekend conversation with friends includes the phrase, "I just ran 15 miles today."
you think a great birthday gift to get is socks or Gu.
you are planning a vacation around a marathon.
you use the term Fartlek, and non-runners think you are talking about passing gas.
you put a date on your shoes so you know when you first used them.
you have more medals than Michael Phelps.
you hum the Chariots of Fire theme song during a run.
you own Body Glide or Nipguards.
family and friends ask you to skip running a marathon this year.
dinner reservations are pushed back because you want to get 5 miles in.
put your running gear in the carry on, so the airline won't lose them.
you have a slavish devotion to your shoes.
you cry when you hear they made some "changes" to your shoes.
you go online and corner the market on the old version of your shoes, because you heard they made "changes" to your shoes.
you know Five Fingers is not a sex toy.
Please feel free to add more.
Charlie
Monday, July 02, 2012
Race Plan - Firecracker 6
On July 4 I will run the Firecracker 6, a six mile race through downtown Indianapolis. The last few weeks of heat have given me a great indication and training for what will happen that morning. Temperatures in Indiana have been in the 90s for weeks now. I imagine at the start, the temps will be in the low to mid 70s and sunny.
Running in heat like that, you have to put time out of your head. This is about endurance and finishing. I will have some NUUN with me, otherwise I will depend on the water on the course. The key will be to not push hard and go fast. This course has little to no shade once you get away from the office buildings. So it will be a blazing sun race.
You have to go slow and steady in this. If you push, you run the risk of running out of energy later in the race. I am going to start the race with a Gu, and then one about 30 minutes into the race. I think I will need the energy. I am also going to have some NUUN prior to the race, so I start out well hydrated. Of course sunscreen will be a must.
My previous time in this race was 1:24. I am suspecting I will be in around 1:35. No PR that day.
I would be happy if Fall came early this year so I could stop running in the blazing heat.
Charlie
Running in heat like that, you have to put time out of your head. This is about endurance and finishing. I will have some NUUN with me, otherwise I will depend on the water on the course. The key will be to not push hard and go fast. This course has little to no shade once you get away from the office buildings. So it will be a blazing sun race.
You have to go slow and steady in this. If you push, you run the risk of running out of energy later in the race. I am going to start the race with a Gu, and then one about 30 minutes into the race. I think I will need the energy. I am also going to have some NUUN prior to the race, so I start out well hydrated. Of course sunscreen will be a must.
My previous time in this race was 1:24. I am suspecting I will be in around 1:35. No PR that day.
I would be happy if Fall came early this year so I could stop running in the blazing heat.
Charlie
Sunday, July 01, 2012
Water on the Monon
Yesterday I was working the water stop for my store's Fall Training Program out on the Monon. If you have never been a part of a water station at a race, or along a route, I recommend it highly. This is a chance to not only support your fellow runners, but you meet cool people along the way.
Folks came up, and were very happy to have someone providing water on a muggy morning. You see everyone. The walkers, the hard core runners, the bikers, the baby joggers, the dog joggers, everyone! Lots of "Good Mornings" and "Looking Goods" to shout out.
There were a few folks who would look oddly at us, wondering what we were doing. Personally if I saw someone with water on a hot muggy day, I would ask if I could have some, and not look suspiciously.
Training program participants were especially happy to see us. This is gives me a chance to answer questions, talk to them about their running.....a real coaching opportunity.
In other news.....
July 4 I am running the Firecracker 6. This is a 6 mile race through downtown Indianapolis. Looking forward to it, as it brings me one step closer to the half marathon in a few weeks.
Don't forget.... Charlie's Turning 50 5K coming up in November.
http://www.crowdrise.com/CharliesTurning50
Charlie
Folks came up, and were very happy to have someone providing water on a muggy morning. You see everyone. The walkers, the hard core runners, the bikers, the baby joggers, the dog joggers, everyone! Lots of "Good Mornings" and "Looking Goods" to shout out.
There were a few folks who would look oddly at us, wondering what we were doing. Personally if I saw someone with water on a hot muggy day, I would ask if I could have some, and not look suspiciously.
Training program participants were especially happy to see us. This is gives me a chance to answer questions, talk to them about their running.....a real coaching opportunity.
In other news.....
July 4 I am running the Firecracker 6. This is a 6 mile race through downtown Indianapolis. Looking forward to it, as it brings me one step closer to the half marathon in a few weeks.
Don't forget.... Charlie's Turning 50 5K coming up in November.
http://www.crowdrise.com/CharliesTurning50
Charlie
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