The Journey

Training for a marathon is a journey. I think the journey starts when you make the decision to run one of these races. I have heard people tell me they thought long and hard on it, others have told me they made a bet with friends. No matter how much or little thought went into it, you knew you were heading on a journey. You just didn't know what kind.

When I made the decision to run my first marathon, I wanted to see if I had one in me. I did. Now that I know I can do it, I want to do it better. I made this decision as soon as I crossed that finish line in Arizona!

This journey has been more physical for me. It has also felt like I have sacrificed a bit more. By sacrifice I am mean I have lost out on meeting up with friends, so I could train. For the most part my friends understand.

I would not trade my marathon training experience for anything. It allows me to see how hard I can push myself physically and mentally. It shows what I can accomplish. And when that medal is placed around my neck, it is pure joy, because I know it was all worth it.

I talk to people all day who think it is worth it all. Others think we marathoners are nuts. Both are correct. :-)

Charlie

Feeling Good

The taper is a good thing. Today I took a nice easy 4 mile run on the treadmill at the gym. Nothing to strenuous, just easy. Tomorrow night is my last speed work...thank goodness! I have to say I don't always enjoy the speed work, but I give it a good shot.

I'm still eating well. No slouching during the taper period. I think I have done well during the training, and look forward to a post race pig out...hehehe.

People coming into the store are happy and excited about the race coming up. So I can only feel pumped.

:-)Charlie

Nervous?

Yesterday three people asked me if I am nervous about the marathon. I would not say nervous, like scared. I would say I am ready for this, and now I have nervous energy about getting started.

I feel my training has gone well for the most part, and am in better condition for this race, then I was for the Phoenix race. I'm more excited than anything.

At the start of this I wanted to set a couple of goals. I wanted to run 5:59:59 in the marathon, and I wanted to lose some weight. Goal #2 is done. I started the training at 210 lbs. I am now back down to 199 lbs! So I am a leaner running machine! Now all I need to do is the goal time.

Soon I will be writing about my strategy for the race. I have been thinking long and hard - as well as staring at the course map. Yeah....I'm a geek.

:-)Charlie

Saying Thanks to Anne

This is a special blog post for me. It was on my mind during my long run today, and when I got home I knew I wanted to write this.

When my sister Anne and I were kids we always found ways to get at each other. It was not always pretty. I think a couple of times our dad actually swore at us in order to get us to behave towards each other.

As siblings do, we grew out of it. Anne got married and had kids. I came out, and tried to make my own life. Even though we had very different lives, we always found a way to bond, through the good times and the bad. There were plenty of both.

When I made the decision to lose weight and become healthier, I have no idea what my sister thought as I took up running. I do know she supported me 100%. After a good run, or a race we would talk, and she would tell me how proud she was of me.

As I got more insane with my running, Anne helped fuel the addiction even more. She got me my first subscription to Runner's World. She got me a pair of shoes, a watch to time my runs, and my first IPod Shuffle. She also just sent me a replacement shuffle - as my first one met an untimely death in the washing machine.

Anne was with me when I finished my first half marathon in South Bend last year. She was at the half way mark with pom poms cheering, and she was in the stands when I ran onto the field at Notre Dame Stadium. She also was the one who made the rule that I could wear my race medals for a day...maybe into the next day - not after that though.

Sadly Anne won't be at the Chicago Marathon, but she will be with me in spirit. She is on my short list of people to call during the race for a quick pep talk during the tough miles.

I value her support and am so grateful to have her for my sister. Anne manages a cleaning business and is a mother of three. She has also taken up aerobics in an effort to get healthier. She has a lot on her plate, and I am amazed at how well she succeeds. I may be biased, but I dare say she is the best sister a guy could have.

I believe it is important to thank the people who love and support us runners. I will be writing about other folks in the future. For now though... thanks Anne for all your love and support! It means the world to me.

:-)Charlie

Dean and Me

As I mentioned a couple of weeks ago I met Dean Karnazes, ultramarathoner, and an idol of mine. We had a picture taken at the expo. Thought I would share it. Sorry for the odd look. It was meant to look like a magazine cover, but the photo people messes it up.

:-)Charlie

Running in Evanston

One of my favorite runs is through Evanston. I ran a nice 5.04 miles today in 1:00:15. That's a great time. I felt good, and it was a beautiful run. There are beautiful homes, nice people, and a great lake front path. It all makes a very enjoyable run.

So now we are 17 days until the marathon. I am feeling better about things since I have recovered from the 20 mile run last week. I am actually looking forward to the 13 miles on Saturday.

Saturday we will talk a bit about race strategies. Should be an interesting chat. I've been thinking alot about this. I need a decent start...not too fast. I also need to stay energized during the race. I worry about the more desolate areas along the course. Need to stay motivated during those portions.

I will be getting a new IPod Shuffle soon, so I will use that during the quieter portions of the race.

:-)Charlie

Spirit of the Marathon

"Spirit of the Marathon" is a documentary which will premiere in Chicago the weekend of the marathon.

http://www.marathonmovie.com/home.html

If the film is as good as the trailer, this will be a must see for all runners. I got chills just watching the trailer.

Charlie

3 Quality Miles

Yesterday I ran a short 3 miles. It was a decent run, just enough to keep me going. I have started the taper.

Tapering for those who don't know is what you do between your longest run and the marathon. You still run, but the miles decrease. You can breathe a little easier knowing you don't have more long, long runs in training. All you do now is anticipate the race.

I took in too much sodium yesterday, my ankles are swollen and hurt this morning. Someone brought peanuts to work, and we nibbled off and on during the day. I can always tell when I have had too much sodium....darn that swelling.

Otherwise all is going well for my training. I have 13 miles on Saturday, and we are going to talk about our race strategies.

:-)Charlie

Looking Ahead

Last night I was trying to figure out what my next running challenge will be. I know I don't want to do another marathon for a bit.* I was looking for some interesting half marathons or 10Ks to do.

I know my main objective after the marathon will be running just for fun and fitness. I won't be in training mode, but will look to just get back to the casual nature of running. I say this now, but I am sure there will be something down the pike which will get me back into training. Hehehehe...

Curious what running goals people have out there?

Charlie

*Note: The blogger reserves the right to change his mind about marathoning if the right race comes up.....;-)

I'm Fine With My Running!

“When I first started running, I was so embarrassed I'd walk when cars passed me. I'd pretend I was looking at the flowers.”

- Joan Benoit Samuelson 1984 Olympic Women's Marathon Gold Medalist

When I first started running I was horrified at the thought of people watching me. I would head out at 5 a.m., so no one would watch. I thought I looked pretty bad. That changed after my first race. It was the first time I really watched a group of people run. After that, I felt I looked fine.

When I watch people run in our store, sometimes I get the person who feels embarassed to have someone watch them. We all run differently. I will never have a gazelle like run. I know that, and am ok with that.

I also know I will never be as fast as those Kenyans! But I take comfort in knowing every time I put on my shoes and head out, I give my run a good try. Some days are better than others, but I am just so glad to be out there.

:-)Charlie

3 Weeks Away

We are now 3 weeks from marathon day!

:-)Charlie

Not Pretty, but Done

Today was a 20 mile long run along Lake Michigan. It was a stunning morning. The day started in the upper 30's and was sunny.

I didn't sleep well. I had nightmares all night, so my head was not in a good place at the start of this run. I was slow all day. All I wanted was to finish and come home. That is what I did.

We started at the Mile 4 marker and headed north. All was fine. I was never fast, but I was not that slow either. After hitting the 0 marker, we headed south. Our path went to the Shedd Aquarium. Again, I thought it was a stunning day, but I was not in my run. I was hoping to finish in 4:15.

I knew that time flew out the window around mile 14. Pain was beginning to set in, and I was walking more. I was giving myself a good chewing out, which anyone running by would have heard. I'm sure I looked like a mad man.

I took many walk breaks, as I felt cramps coming on. I worked them out, and started running...jogging. I eventually made it back to the start - 4:35:06. Not a great time if I am hoping to accomplish a sub 6:00 marathon, but I have three weeks to make some changes.

I was down the whole ride home on the EL. Now that I have had a few hours to think about it, I am not so down. I ran the race of my life last week. It is only natural that this run would not be the same calibre - I'm not Lance Armstrong...hehehe. So I have a good sense of what to plan, and will be working on it this week.

20 miles are in the bank!

:-)Charlie

Support

I would like to say that a marathon is an individual goal, but that goal is not achieved individually. We runners value the support and encouragement of our friends, family and loved ones. I was reminded of this last Sunday during the half marathon.

My friends Sarah and Mark brought their girls out to cheer and support me. Mark brought the bike so he could meet me at various mile markers to give me Gu or water. Sarah had the girls out to cheer me on. Cecilia, their oldest (3), looked so happy to see me at the mile 3 mark. She was beaming as I waved at her.

Mile 10 though was the key for me. They there were again. This time they had a sign cheering me on. I gave Cecilia a high five, and she looked so happy!

I was also happy to see my other Mark. He says he saw me at Mile 11, but I did not hear him. I saw him though once I crossed the finish line. A smiling face is always a joy to see at the end of a race.

So now we come to the marathon. I am developing my plan for the day. I have some friends who will be my road crew. I just have to figure where to have them meet me. I also have some friends ready to pop out and cheer me on. This is a major reason why I want to do Chicago - that hometown feeling, and all my friends will be there.

The people in our lives may not always understand this insanity we call running, but one thing is for sure, they know what it means to us, and we are so glad they are there to cheer us on! Thanks to those wonderful people.

:-)Charlie

Slow Run and Strategy

After my fast half marathon, I wanted to be sure I had an eye on this week's 20 mile run. So last night's run was short and slow. I ran about 5 miles at a 12:36 pace. It felt good. I knew I didn't want to push myself. My body is still coming back from Sunday's race.

The 20 miles will be a good chance for me to see how the race distance will really feel like. I am working on my race strategy at this point.

Overall I feel pretty good. My body is recovering well from the long runs. I feel I am in decent shape. Emotionally I am excited about the marathon. I think about it everyday. I think about how I want to pace myself; where I will need my support crew; whether or not I should take water with me. Lots to plan.

24 days away...

Charlie

25 Days Away

I got my confirmation ticket and booklet for the marathon. Now I feel like I am officially entered. A co-worker and I were acting like kids waiting for Christmas talking about the marathon yesterday. I have taped the course map up at work, and we have talked about strategy.

This has been a fun experience. I talk to runners everyday, so my excitement is up for this. You get a sense that this race is what the runners in Chicago really are gunning for.

So here is what I need now....words of encouragement. I felt good after the half marathon, but I see the 20 mile run looming, and I am a bit worried. I really want to finish this long run. So any words you folks can give....I will appreciate.

Charlie

Medals and Pet Peeves

So I have a nice collection of medals in my posession. I have to say everytime I earn one in a race, I really feel like I have earned it. :-)

Ok...now for a couple of pet peeves from yesterday's race.....

1) IF you have to stop during the race - MOVE OVER TO THE RIGHT AND GET OFF THE COURSE!!! I can't stress this enough. I can't tell you how many times I almost crashed into someone because they were listening to their music, and just STOPPED to either stretch or just rest. That is a horrible accident waiting to happen.

2) I appreciate all the people who volunteer during a race. The most important ones are those at the water station. So please....make sure you have water and drink somewhat ready. I can't tell you how many times I stopped at the station and had to wait as they poured drinks. That kills me.

Still feel good about yesterday's race. Feeling very good about a sub-6 hour marathon in 27 days!

:-)Charlie

Chicago Half Marathon

Yesterday was the Banco Popular Chicago Half Marathon. It was a bright and sunny day. Temperatures were warm in the 60's at the start - not a cloud in the sky. 12,500 started the race. The race goes through the Jackson Park/Hyde Park region of Chicago, starting at the Museum of Science and Industry, then along Lake Shore Drive, then back to the museum.

As I waited for the start, a woman came up to me. I had sold her shoes months ago. She was hugging me, and tell me how much she loved her shoes, and that this was her second half marathon, and will shoot for the Chicago Marathon next year. I thought that was sweet.

A few minutes later a guy tapped me on the shoulder. Sure enough I sold him a pair of shoes a few months ago. He too was telling me he was feeling good, and wished me luck.

The gun went off, and the race was on. I will admit, I went out way too fast. I thought I was going slow, but at mile 1 - 10:13. NOoooo! Too fast. My next mile was 12:05, much better.

At mile 3 I was greeted by my crew - Mark, Sarah, Cecilia and Chloe. I have known Mark and Sarah for 12 years. The girls are their delightful daughters, age 5 and 6 months. They were a welcome sight!

Soon the course headed out of the park, and on to Lake Shore Drive. It was a lonely stretch of road, few people, but there was the occasional rock band. At mile 5 Mark met me with water and a gell. I screwed up opening the package, and got gell on me....yuck. At this point I was under an hour and feeling good. Mile 6 and 7 were ok. Mile 8 I was feeling very dehydrated. The sun was hotter than I had thought. I could feel a burn coming on. I called Mark, and told him I needed him at mile 9 and not 10.

He biked over and met me. I kept the water this time, and had better luck with the gell. He rode along side me which actually helped. I felt like I had company. At mile 10 the girls were there with a big sign wishing me luck. I gave Cecilia a high five! I told them I would see them at the finish, and off I went.

This point on I took far more walking breaks than I like, and my pace had slowed a bit. For a good portion of the race I was running near the 2:30 pace group. Way too fast for me.

At mile 12 I decided to kick it into gear, and I did some speed work(which would make Coach Scott pretty happy). At this point all I wanted was the finish line. Soon enough I saw it, and I powered my way to it.

I crossed the finish line at - 2:45:04 - a new personal record! The previous mark was 2:59:59.

At the finish I met up with the crew, and my other friend Mark was there. He was cheering me on at mile 11....never heard him. Still it was good to see the group there at the end.

I feel great about this race. Learned some good lessons for the marathon - take water and avoid the early water stops; start slower; take walk breaks before I NEED them; make sure I see the support crew more often.

So another successful race in the bag....this week I have a 20 mile long run! OY!

:-)Charlie

Meeting a Hero

It isn't often we get to meet our heroes. Today I met one of mine. I went to the expo/packet pick up for the half marathon. As I walked by the Nissan booth, there he was - Dean Karnazes!

Those who read here regularly know who he is. Dean is an ultramarathoner. His book "Ultramarathon Man" should be required reading for runners. I stood in line where he was signing copies of his book. I own the book already, but when I found out the books were free....bam I was there. I was the last in line.

Finally I got my chance to talk to him. I told him he is an idol of mine, and we talked a bit about my running. He told me it is people like me who inspire him. WOW! We posed for a picture, and he wished me luck on Sunday. He is running the race as well.

Dean is a nice guy, and while I am sure he tires of the promotion work, he gives his all to those he talks to. I feel so blessed to meet him today. It made my week!!!

www.ultramarathonman.com

Charlie

T- Minus One Month

One month from today - The 30th LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon!

:-)Charlie

Catching Up

Folks, sorry for not posting. We are having internet issues at home, so I am unable to access the blog at home for the time being.



Wednesday I met an incredible woman named Katherine Brooks. She was my last customer of Wednesday. She was limping and had a brace on her right leg. When she sat down we talked about what she needed shoes for. She is running the Lung Run 5K this weekend. She has not run in a year and 3 months. Katherine suffered a stroke, which left her paralyzed on her right side. She used to run marathons. This 5K is her first race back. Her ultimate goal is to get back to running a marathon.

She and I talked for a while about the normal feeling we have when we run. She told me how un - normal she has felt since she had the stroke, and her training has made her feel whole again. Her goal for the 5K is 1 hour - 1:15. She will have her PT, husband and doctor running with her.

I headed out on a 6 mile run after work, and thought of Katherine as I ran. It was hot and humid, and I barely made the 6 miles, but I kept what Katherine has been through in my head, and that got me through it.

The Chicago Half Marathon is Sunday. I am going for a PR. The course will begin to close at 2:50. I am going for a sub 2:40 time. I think I can do it. I of course will keep you all posted.

:-)Charlie

4 Miles...and I Feel Good!

Sorry for not posting more. We have no internet at home this week.

Today was a 4 mile run to Evanston. Excellent run and I felt great. I ran the 4 miles in 45:40. Great time for me. The weather is getting warm and humid again. I am really hoping for a nice 45 degree day on race day. :-)

I am sending a big shout out to the person who is reading this blog in Belfast. Don't know who you are, but I appreciate your periodic reading. Hope you are finding it entertaining or interesting. I have been to Ireland many times, I just not have not made it up to your area.

One day I will.

:-)Charlie

Long Run to Evanston

One of my favorite runs is to head north to Evanston, the suburb just north of Chicago. It is a nice change of pace from the lakefront path. Today the run was 6 miles. Yes...a cut back week. I felt really good on this run. Though it was cooler than it has been, it was still humid out there.

I ran the 6 miles in a terrific 1:05:21. That is mush faster than race pace. Still I enjoyed myself out there. Lot of friendly folks running and saying good morning! I like runs like that.

So now I begin to get ready for the Chicago Half Marathon. That will be next week's long run.

:-)Charlie

August Thoughts

Today I close the books on the month of August. Here are the stats:

69.95 miles with a 12:12 pace. That is a bit slower than the last month, but I am more than fine with that. Today I ran 2.5 miles in 28:58 - not bad. I did hill and speed work on the treadmill.

This has been an odd time for me. As most of you know I lost my job at the college at mid-summer, so when I am not running or working at Fleet Feet, I have been searching for a job. It has been hard on me mentally. For whatever reason I can't seem to get THE job. I come very close and have great interviews, but nothing comes of it. At one point I felt I was a failure for not being able to get the job I want.

Running has kept me sane. Running has reminded me that I am able to accomplish something. While I have not been able to nail down some of the long runs, I know what I am capable of, and know I can succeed at the marathon.

Deep down I know I am not a failure, but clearly some things in my non-running life are not working, and am at a loss at how to turn things around. It is hard to block those out while running, but I do my best.

Sorry to make this a downer post, but if I can't share it here, where can I?

Never fear, I know things will get better. The problem is I need better - FAST!

:-)Charlie

Rest

This morning I woke up with seriously stiff ankles. So today is a rest day. I will do some miles tomorrow. Saturday's long run is a 6 mile run. So this is a cut back week.

I am actually getting excited about next week's Chicago Half Marathon. This is will be a good test to see how I am doing. the course begins to shut down at the 2:50 mark. So I will be working on getting under that time. This will also let me see what kind of shape I am really in.

At the store folks are coming in for all their marathon gear, so we have been swamped. Time to get the new shoes to wear for race day. For those who don't know the life of a running shoe is 300-500 miles, or 6-8 months -depending on use. Some shoes wear quicker than others.

I have ordered my shoes. I wear the Brooks Dyad 8 1/2 2E. My feet are actually wider, but thoser shoes are made bigger. So it all works for me.

:-)Charlie

Good Pace

Tonight was a tempo run. I took to the treadmill. The speed work takes its toll on me though. I did 5.5 miles at an 11:43 pace. I'm ok with that. I just needed to do another 1.5 miles. Just did not feel it. Still I happy with what I did.

Tonight though I am very tired and worn out. One thing which I always have to remember is when I am physically tired, I am not always at my best emotionally. So I am glad the roomies are on a camp out tonight. I can decompress at home alone.

My post run meal tonight was a PB and Honey sandwich on whole wheat. I really had a taste for that, and it was YUMMY!!!!! I downed it with a glass of soy milk. I have to say I really like soy milk. Not the plain, but the vanilla. Very tasty. Silk makes a great lower calorie soy milk that is wonderful. The store is always out of it though.

So all in all a decent run. I am thinking of throwing in some miles tomorrow. We'll see.

Charlie

Quote of the Day

"I run because it's my passion, and not just a sport. Every time I walk out the door, I know why I'm going where I'm going and I'm already focused on that special place where I find my peace and solitude. Running, to me, is more than just a physical exercise... it's a consistent reward for victory!"


Sasha Azevedo

Community of Runners

What has amazed me most as I have gotten involved with running are the incredible people I meet. On a daily basis I talk and interact with runners from Chicago and around the world. This blog has been visited by people from places such as Malyasia, Iceland, Israel, Ireland, the UK, Brazil, Spain, France, and even somewhere in the middle of the Pacific, and of course all over the US and Canada. I want to thank you all for reading my blog. I appreciate it.

As I talk with these folks, I am struck at how much we love our sport. For some it is a healthy exercise. For others it is a passion. When I talk with customers at the store, I watch them beam as they tell me about their runs and how they are progressing.

I am sure I bore most of my friends as I talk about my running, so I am very appreciative of being able to "talk shop" with my fellow runners. You all are terrific!

So now as I head off to work today at Fleet Feet, I feel good knowing there is a great community of runners out there!

:-)Charlie

Speedy

Tonight's workout was 6 x 800m. I broke it down into miles. When you do speed work you, the idea is to go all out. My first mile I ran in 9:44. My second miles was also 9:44. I slowed down for the third mile - 10:00.

I am a tired guy, but happy that I did well tonight. Tomorrow I will rest up as Wednesday is a 7 mile run. I am looking ahead to Saturday. I am supposed to do 6 miles, but I may up it to 10. I will see how I feel. I also want to try to get some extra miles in as well.

I'm feeling good, and already beginning to think about my race strategy. More on that later.

:-)Charlie

"You Are My New Hero"

Yesterday I was helping a man with shoes at the store. He had just done a charity walk, and realized he needed new shoes. He had his daughter with him. I would say he was in his 50's. He talked about his recovery from quadruple heart surgery. I asked how his health was, and he said this is why he walks.

He asked me if I thought walking was good exercise. I told him how I started walking, then turend to running to lose 100 lbs. He looked at me wided-eyed, and told me that was amazing. We talked about the importance of nutrition and exercise. He has lost 70 lbs. I told him that was great, and to keep up the great work.

Sadly I was not able to fit him in shoes. He has wide feet like me, and we did not have his size. I gave him all the shoe information and told him he could go through another Fleet Feet in his home town, or he could go to the local New Balance store. He told me he wanted me to get credit for the sale. I said that was not an issue and not to worry.

Before he left he came over to me, shook my hand and told me I was his new hero. I smiled and thanked him, and told him he was pretty heroic for coming back from heart surgery. That guy made my day!

:-)Charlie

Range of Motion

For those who are first time readers, or have not read many of my posts, let me talk about my feet. I was born with clubbed feet. Typically you see people with this walk on the outside of their feet, and they appear pigeon toed. I have had surgeries which "corrected" this. The cures though have left me with extremely limited range of motion, especially the right foot. I have had people ask how I run. I suppose I should not be able to. For the most part I am fine on flat surfaces. Once the terrain makes my ankles move, it is very difficult, and usually leaves me in pain.

This brings me to today's long run. Today was an 18 mile run. It was miserable outside this morning. We started the run in a driving drizzle. Added to all the rain we have had this week, the path was miserable. Mud, huge puddles, a mini triathlon and downed trees from a storm a few days ago, made the path an obstacle course.

As long I was on the path, I was wet and miserable, but I ran fairly well. It was not a fast day. To avoid the obstacles, I had to run on the grass for a portion of the run. This was my undoing. Because my feet were forced to go at various angles, my ankles were beginning to kill me. Sadly I stopped at mile 8. My time was 1:44:49.

It is hard for me to stopdue to pain, because I feel so normal when I am running. To stop makes me feel as I did growing up, that there was something wrong with me, because I could not participate in sports.

I could have walked the next 10 miles, but that would have taken hours, and I would have just felt miserable out there. So I came home. Of course I am still miserable, but I can put my feet up. :-)

Sadly there is nothing I can do about this. So I will up the miles on my shorter runs this week, so I can get the miles in.

Charlie

Call Me Coach

Our store will be part of a "Couch to 5K" program New Balance will be sponsoring, Tonight I was asked if I would like to be a coach in the program. Of course I said yes!!! What a great opportunity this is for me. I really love the idea of helping people become more fit as they go from walking to running a 5K, or even no activity to running a 5K.

One of my joys at the store is talking to people about becoming more fit, and just getting out there and moving. A marathon is not required. I love it when these people come back and talk to me about how much they enjoy their running. Now I will get to go step by step with these folsk as they get mroe into the sport.

I am SO excited!!!!!!

:-)Charlie

X Train Lite

Today was a lite workout in anticipation of tomorrow's 18 mile run. I rode the bike and worked out on the Elliptical for about 20-25 minutes. A nice simple workout, not too hard.

Looking forward to tomorrow's run. 18 miles.....hoping to run it in a decent time.

:-)Charlie

Hot Run - Pain

Chicago has been sweltering in humidity most of the summer. I have discovered I don't run well at all in humidity. Last night was a 7 mile tempo run. I managed 4.2 miles. It was slow, but I wanted it to be slow. What kept me from going all the way? I was running on the right side of the path, which is normal. A couple women were running towards me, and would not get to the left as they should. I had to step off the path, and stepped in a rut. Minor twist of my foot, and I yelled, "FUCK!" It hurt.

The women looked back...and looked at me like I did something wrong. I hate rude runners. So I had a bit of pain during the run, and decided not to make things worse. So I headed back to the gym.

I am in a bit of pain this morning, so I will rest up for the 18 mile run on Saturday.

Charlie

Remembering Mom

No matter how hard I train, or how many races I run, there is someone I really can't share this with, and I wish I could - my mom. Ten years ago my mother died of Liver Cancer. Her birthday is tomorrow. She would have been 90.

Growing up my mom was who I shared everything with. All my school successes...and not quite successes. She was the one who went to bat for me whenever I needed someone in my corner. She was the one I talked to about anything.

As I grew older, she was still the one I felt was always behind me. She especially loved listening as I told her about my trips. We shared a joy for travel. All she ever wanted was for me to be happy, same as any other mom.

I would like to think she be supportive of my running. I know as a kid my losing weight was important to my folks. Of course it was tough to lose weight when you had the world's best cook in the house. Hehehe......

Mom did not always understand why I did what I did, but she was very supportive. I think she might have even come out to a race or two to cheer me on. I know during my longer races, I think about my mom, and hope she is watching over me.

Liver Cancer is a horrible way to go. Any liver ailment is a horrible ordeal. Yesterday I learned a co-worker of mine is using his Chicago Marathon to raise money for the American Liver Foundation. It's the first time he has raised money while running. I am including a link to his fundraising page. If you feel inclined, please consider donating to his efforts. I plan on giving as soon as pay day rolls around. Thanks.

http://www.active.com/donate/run2007/alfSWillba

:-)Charlie

Running to Meditate

"I've always felt running is a form of meditation. Running enables us to stop our lives, to go out and find a safe place for ourselves."

Nina Kuscsik, first official women's champ with her 1972 Boston Marathon win and two-time NYC Marathon winner


I have commented on this before. I really find my running a useful time to meditate/pray. I have a mantra I use as I run. It's in conjunction with my breathing. I say "world" on the inhale, and "peace" on the exhale. I learned this in a yoga class I took last fall.

I find the mantra clears my mind, and am able to focus on the run. It also allows for prayer time. Again, I am not an overly religious guy, and I am no pushing my faith out there. I just feel peaceful with God during these runs.

:-)Charlie

O-u-c-h

After the 16 miles I was in a lot of pain. The rest of the day was spent on the couch with the occasional leg cramps. Not my ideal way to spend a Saturday, but it was better than trying to walk all over the place.

We have a new dog in the house, and she did need to be walked. I told her we were going out front, and then back in. Of course she didn't listen and pulled me across the street to say hello to another dog. :-)

Today I am just a bit still, but no real pain. There was a time 16 miles would have me on the couch for days. So I do feel good about this.

:-)Charlie

10 Miles To Go

Today's long run was 16 miles. It was hard and painful but I did it. My first 6 miles I ran with Stuart from my group Johann, one of our coaches suggested I run with him I did. We kept it easy. The lakefront was crowded due to the Air and Water Show this weekend. Still we managed ok.

After 6 miles I used a port-a - pottie, and sent Stuart on his way. I would not see him again until mile 12. I was fine with that. I sped up a bit, but never zoomed with speed. At the mile 12 point I decided to head home from there, which is about 4 miles. I did the 16 miles in 3:22:44. Considering my half marathon race PR is 2:59, I say that is a damn fine time. Today's half marathon tiem was 2:43. Mile 14 was a speedy mile, and then I was pooped as I ran/walked the rest of the way.

I am so sore! But it feels good to know I got this run under my belt.

:-)Charlie

No Really....It's Ok If You Don't Run

Today during a job interview the subject of my running came up. I talked briefly about it, and what my goals are. This was the response, "I'm sorry I don't run." I smiled and told the woman it was ok.

Readers of this blog know this is a pet peeve of mine. When I talk about running, someone usually explains to me they don't run. Sometimes it is apologetic. Sometimes it is condesending. Sometimes it feels like they feel they should run. but are making excuses.

No really...it is ok if you don't run. Just because I do, does not mean you have to. This is my passion, and I enjoy sharing it. Everyone has something they are passionate about(I hope). If painting is your thing...great. If walking on a high wire is your cup of tea - excellent. Mine is running. So really...it's ok if you don't run.

:-)Charlie

"Easy" Hill Run

Last night's run was to be outdoors for 6 miles with hill training. It rained, so I was on the treadmill using a hill program, set at a 5.5 incline. I ran 3 miles of that, then I ran 1.1 miles at a regular incline. For the record I did not run the whole 3 miles at that incline. It was a gradual incline program.

I decided not to run the whole 6 miles. I want to save as much as I can for the 16 mile run this week. My fear is the hard running in this heat has taken a toll on my body, so I want to still run, but have something for the long run.

I had this problem of not finishing long runs during my last training, and I get worried about it. I know I can finish the race. I want to do more than finish though. I want that sub-6 hour time.

Charlie

Heroes!

I am only three years into the sport of running. Already I have my idols.

I am in awe everytime I read the story of Alberto Salazar and Dick Beardsley 1982 Boston Marathon duel. Joan Benoit Samuelson reigns supreme as the first women's Olympic Marathon winner. Katherine Switzer harrowing story of being the first woman to enter and finish the Boston Marathon impresses me. Ryan Hall, only 24 and is blazing at a sub- 1 hour half marathon. Dean Karnazes is the ultramarathon man. I read his book before every major race I run. Steve "Runner" host of the terrific podcast "Phedippidations" is my companion on my long runs. He keeps me company and provides inspriation to me.

Anyone who can finish a marathon has my admiration. I know what it takes to do it, and those people amaze me.

I am also in awe of the person who decides to get off the couch and decide to move. Making the decision to become fitter is an important one. I cheer and support anyone who takes that step away from the couch. You folks are heroes, and need to know it!

Who are your heroes?

:-)Charlie

Good Training Run

Tonight was a really nice 4.25 mile run to Evanston and back. I ran it in 51:20. Not too worried about the time. I took the stress off and thought of it as a fun run. Lots of people out running and greeting each other. I really like that.

It was a warm, but not too humid night. Just really pleasant. I left the IPod at home and just listened to my breathing and the sounds around me. Every now and then it's good to run without the noise.

:-)Charlie

Another Bad Long Run

I have found that humdity and I do not get along when it comes to long runs, and I think I need some help. Today was a 13 mile long run. I ran 7.16 miles of it before my right thigh started to cramp a bit. I called it quits. I was not happy about. I was drinking as I should, but never felt good out there. I even ran back to the gym to run the treadmill a while, but that did not help.

I started slow, and tried to get to pace, but nothing I did was working. I kept wondering if someone were with me, would I have been able to do it? The heat was getting bad for me, but I would not call it opressive. It just was sucking the life out of me. This is the second long run I have not been able to finish, and I am not happy about it.

I would welcome any thoughts or suggestions on this. I have tried drinking more. I have tried more walk breaks. I have tried running slower. I just can't seem to crack this humidity issue.

Charlie

X Train

Today was a cross training day before my long run. I took it easy. I did a 1/2 mile on the Ellipitcal, then 6 miles on the bike. A good workout, but not too hard.

Tomorrow is a 13 mile run. I won't be with the group. Most are running the Chicago Distance Classic on Sunday. I decided to run the Chicago Half Marathon in September instead. I was a bit sore yesterday after my run. So I will gauge myself tomorrow so I can run all 13 miles.

:-)Charlie

Tempo Run - A Bit Rainy

Last night was a 6 mile tempo run. Just a reminder a tempo run is slightly faster than race pace. My race pace is 12:00/mile. My goal last night was 11:30/mile. We have had huge rains this week, and had a big dump of rain earlier in the day. By the time I started my run it was drizzling. So the Lakefront Path hada lot of puddles and was a bit messy. Still I pushed ahead.

I felt really good the first 3 miles. Mile 4 I felt I was dragging. The humidity was hitting me, and I really needed water. When I got to the water fountain, there was a line of about 7 people. Most of them were chatty, and I was getting a touch impatient. Still I waited. That mile I ran at 13:03/mile.

I pushed hard to finish, and I had a time of 1:10:30. That is a good 6 miles for me. That translates to 11:45/mile. Just off the pace, and I was satisfied with that.

Saturday's long run is 13 miles. This will be a good gauge for me about how I am doing for a race pace. If it is humid as it has been I am tempted to slow things down a bit. Faster runs kill me in this heat, and I know that is what made me stop my long run a couple weeks ago.

Otherwise I feel pretty good as we countdown to race day.

The marathon has a new and improved website. Go to www.chicagomarathon.com to look at it.

:-)Charlie

8/8/07 - Quote

"Running allows us to define our weaknesses and make them strengths. It supplies those missing attributes that diminish us and keep us from functioning fully. It makes us whole."

George Sheehan

Great Quote

"Things which matter most must never be at the mercy of things which matter least."

Goethe

Two Months to Go

Last night was another stormy Monday, so the workout was on the treadmill. We had to run 3200 meters twice, or two 2 mile runs as fast as possible. I set the treadmill on an alternating speed, and ran the first 2 miles in 22:14. I took a 4 minute break before the next 2 miles. I zipped along in 21:21! So I ran the 4 miles in a blazing 43:35. My pace was 10:53/mile - again a fast one for me.

I felt good since this was my frist real running workout in a week. I'm sure my body thought, "Whoa what's going on." Because it was my first serious run in a week, I decided to take slow down breaks as I went along. No need to risk injury.

As of this writing it is two months until race day. Getting excited about it, and really beginning to think about the race. On the fridge at home, I keep a map of the marathon route up so I see what the goal is everyday. Of course after all this hard work, my feeling is the race will be the easy part.....ha!

The weather here is August weather - hot and very humid. So I need to be extra sure I am taking care of myself. Hydration is the word! I yearn for October weather though!

:-)Charlie

July Wrap Up

July was a heavy running month for me as you can imagine. The training went well. Not sure how I will do this week following a week of mostly not running, but tonight is a 2 x 3200m workout.

Here are the figures for July - 69:96 miles at 11:58/mile - Not too shabby.

Back in hot muggy Chicago. I would rather be running in San Francisco at this time of year. Hehehe.

:-)Charlie

Japanese Tea Garden

Today during my 3 mile run I went through Golden Gate Park again. This time I traveled around the Japanese Tea Garden. Very lovely. The city has swept the homeless out of the park this week, so the park seemed a bit better to run through. This garden in particular was wonderful.

I leave San Francisco tomorrow. While I won't go into the particulars of the visit. I can tell you it was one of the most interesting experiences I have had in a long time. I have been in the Haight Ashbury Area - famous in the 60's. Today many drugged folks and homeless. Still it is worth while to visit.

Home tomorrow. I will miss the 14 mile run, but will be working hard over the next week.

Charlie

Hello San Francisco

Greetings from San Francisco!

I am in this lovely city for the next few days. Serious training has taken a back seat for the moment. I did manage a run in Golden Gate Park yesterday. I ran 2.25 miles. Felt good. The temps are in the 60s so I find it ideal running.

Did not run today, and I already feel gross. I am in meetings and interviews constantly here.

Will check in later.

Charlie

I'm Leaving on a Jet Plane!

In the morning I am on my way to San Francisco for a few days. While I am out there I will be looking for interesting running routes for me. Not sure I can manage the hills, but I am told over and over again San Francisco is a great running town.

So I won't be training this week. I will be in the Bay Area in talks with an organization for a possible job. This would be an exciting opportunity for me.

I will write if possible. I do plan to be back on Saturday for my long run.

:-)Charlie

Sometimes the Body Says NO!

Today was a scheduled 12 mile run. It was cloudy and very humid. I have not felt this humidity in a long time. I described to a friend that it was like running while breathing a wet sponge. It was bad.

My start was ok. In fact I was doing ok up to mile 5. I was under an hour at this point. Mile 5.25 though, my body sayd - NO! I felt like I could not go on. My calves hurt, and I was having a great deal of difficulty breathing. I walked, and tried to run again, but it didn't happen.

I made the decision to turn around and head back to our starting point. I felt very dejected during this walk. I ran into something like this in my previous marathon training. Sometimes your body does not want to cooperate. I say better it happen today, than on race day.

I was down the whole trip home, and was grouchy the rest of the day. Sorry to any of my friends I was not cheerful with.

Next week will be a 13 mile run.

This next week I will be in San Francisco. So I won't be training with the group until the long run. I will do my best to put in some miles in San Francisco. No doubt I can get some hill work in.

:-)Charlie

Emotional Run

Tonight was speed training. We had to do 800m/1600m/1600m/800m. For those who are not into metric, this was roughly - 1/2 mile/1 mile/1 mile/1/2 mile. Here were my times:

800m - 4:50
1600m - 10:40
1600m - 10:10
800m - 4:10

That was some fast times my friends. I mean fast! The whole time I did those, all I could think about was the need for speed.

On the walk home though....I got emotional. It was 3 years ago this month I started walking, then running. 3 years!!!

My first 5K was the Trick or Trot. I ran the 3.1 miles in 45 minutes. Since then I have cut that time significantly. I almost teared up on my walk to the gym. I have become an athlete, and it feels amazing.

Now look at those times I mentioned again. Now look at what I wrote for my first 5K. Pretty amazing to me.

This is also the 4 year anniversary of my journey to lose weight. I am currently at 206.5 lbs. I was tipping just over 300 lbs this time in 2003. Again...a very emotional thing for me to comprehend.

As I have said before no one does this alone. Friends, family and loved ones have been with me on this journey, and I am so happy they have been there.

Tomorrow I am supposed to run 6 miles. We will see what the body says. Saturday is a 12 mile long run.

:-)Charlie

6 Miles FAST!!!

Last night was a 6 mile tempo run. I actually enjoyed it most of the way. I zipped along at a good clip. I have been making some changes in my gait, and I think it means I am a bit faster and running easier. Last night's time was 1:09:41. That is less than 3 minutes ahead of pace time.

I felt good most of the run. I started to think about how far I have come. I have been running since 2004, so this is quite a deal for me. I thank my goodness for my running. I feel better about life, me and my health.

I also feel blessed for the supportive people in my life. The family, friends and loved ones are amazing to me with their support. I can't thank them enough.

Wow....that was a lot to think about in a 1:09:41 run.

:-)Charlie

Long Run -10 Miles

Today was our 10 mile long run. The weather was ideal. It was in the upper 60s when we started - very sunny and a nice breeze. We were back on the lakefront path again, as were all the marathon training groups.

Last night I talked with a co-worker who is also a track coach. He told me about the importance of starting the long run slow, and then speed up. I tried to take his advice. My group started slow...or so I thought. When we hit the first mile, it was 11:10. My goal was 12:05. So I was WAY too fast. Ironically I felt I was on a smooth and easy pace, until mile 8. I had two miles about the 12:00 pace. I finished the 10 miles at 1:59:07. That is an excellent run for me. It comes to a 11:54/mile pace. So I was ahead of the 12:00 pace.

Overall I felt good. I really want someone to pace me slower at the start of a long run, so I am not struggling at the end. I'm going to ask Scott about that.

Ok...time to rehydrate.

:-)Charlie

Quote of the Day

Run when you can, walk when you have to, crawl if you must; just never give up.


- - Dean Karnazes
Runner and author of
Ultramarathon Man.

Stormy Weather

Last night's 5 mile run was moved indoors due to thunderstroms. It was rough outside. Inside I ran on the treadmill, and did a great job. Very pleased. I ran the 5 miles in 59:44. That is still under the 12min/mile pace, and I am always happy about that.

:-)Charlie

Cross Train Tuesday

You would think the last thing I would want to do after last night's hill workout would be another workout. Well that's what I did.

I hit the gym this morning for strength training and a bike workout. I did about 25 minutes of strength training. Then I hit the bike for a 6 mile ride. T-i-r-e-d! Phew!

I feel good though. I am upping the weights I use to give me a more intense workout. As the miles increase, the workouts will decrease, so I want to be sure I am getting the most effort out of each workout. So if I was doing a lat pulldown at 60 lbs for 3 reps of 15, I change it to 2 reps of 15 ay 70 or 90 lbs.

The bike workout is an excellent way to train. All of these workouts give me an opportunity to use different muscles and strengthen my core.

Tomorrow is a 5 mile run!

:-)Charlie

Hill Training

Last night's workout was hills. This is a tough one in Chicago. One might be tempted to think we ran up and down the Sears Tower, but that was not the case. If it was Monday, there must have been a threat of bad weather, so we moved indoors again.

I have used the hill program on the treadmills, but this was going to be different. Overall we had to run 5 miles , and in that 5 miles, we had to run 10 hills. These hills started at a 5% incline, and rose to a 6.5% incline. We would run a hill for 1 minute, with a 45 second recovery phase. We would run an "easy" 2 miles at the start, and then run at whatever pace, the miles we had remaining at the end.

This was tough....as all these workouts are. I remember Scott telling me this program would kick my ass, and it does. I also feel darned good afterwards.

To me, hill training is a combination of tempo runs and strength training. You are really pouring some power into your leg workouts with this kind of work. This will also help me tackle those hills during the marathon...not! :-)

After this workout...I was ready for some food. A turkey burger awaited. I skip the fries, and the restaurant I go to is great about substituting cottage cheese for them. Got to have that protein.

I can assure you a slept well when I got home.

:-)Charlie

Quote of the Day

Just got this in an email and had to share -


"Running has given me the courage to start, the determination to keep trying, and the childlike spirit to have fun along the way. Run often and run long, but never outrun your joy of running."

Julie Isphording, winner of the 1990 Los Angeles Marathon

:-)Charlie

Joy

One of my many thoughts as I was running on the trail today was how I have fallen in love with running. Often I hear people tell me about the joy they feel when they run. I will say I love running, and I certainly enjoy running, but I did not understand the joy people talked about until I was on that trail.

Maybe it is because I run in a city. Don't get me wrong, I think Chicago is one of the most beautiful cities around. But my options for running are along the lakefront, on the sidewalks, or in the street. Today, being in the woods, I felt JOY!

As I mentioned in my last post, the area reminded me of Woodland Shores, where we had out cottage when I was a boy. It was a woods with, for many years a gravel road. Eventually it was all paved. But I loved going for walks on that gravel road. Today I saw trees, creeks....or at least where they were, hills, sun and people really enjoying being out in nature.

In this world, it is not often we feel joy. I don't mean happiness. That is a bit different. I am talking about the feeling of overwhelming happiness over something. I felt it today, and I call it joy. I felt I ran better and easier. Well who wouldn't in that environment.

As always, I am not telling anyone they need to run. I am saying each of us needs to go do or find something which gives us joy!

:-)Charlie

Long Run - Waterfall Glen

This was a terrific long run! The group traveled to Waterfall Glen about 20-25 miles outside of Chicago. It a forest preserve surrounding the Argonne National Laboratory. It was so beautiful. The trail was crushed limestone, which I must tell you is heaven to run on.

http://dupageforest.com/PRESERVES/waterfallglen.html

Running on this path reminded me of the area in Michigan where my family had a cottage. This was woods, clearings, and more woods. I loved this trail. My feet must have loved it...or it was my new Brooks Dyads I was wearing today.

I ran the 9.5 miles in 1:56:47. I am happy with that time. Head coach Scott also seemed pleased. The first 4.5 miles were the easy portion of the trail. After that is was on incline of hills. Hills are not always my friends, but I tackled them pretty hard. The only time I walked was near the tops of two hills. I just did not have it in me to run.

As I ran the trail, I thought about age. Of course listening to Phedippidations podcast on runners over 50 had a lot to do with that. Hehehe... I thought that this was so incredible that at 44 I am running like mad, and feeling good. Take that 20something couch potato people.

So all in all a great running day!

:-)Charlie

Run and a Workout

Tonight was a 4 mile run combined with some strength training. I did really tonight. I felt in a good groove. I did the 4 miles in 40:43. That is about 10:10/mile. That is a fast pace for me. I needed a good fast run after the last couple of runs. The thing is it never felt fast. I felt I was going at an easy pace. So this is a good thing.

The strength training was a bit rough. Quite a bit of it called for some good range of motion, which I don't have. Scott saw I got a bit frustrated. He offered some alternatives which helped. It's moments like that I wish I could do what other people could do. I can't balance on leg for more than a couple of seconds. Never have. So I was not able to balance and do shoulder presses.

I know...there are worse things in life. Still I just wish I could some of these things.

:-)Charlie

Hard on Myself

My friends will tell you I am extremely hard on myself. This has been a life long deal for me. This brings me to tonight. Tonight was a tempo run - 3 X 1600m. I was just ok the first mile 5.6 MPH. After a walk and jog break, Scott had my crank up to 5.8 MPH. This is what killed me.

I felt my legs giving out a couple times (Note: due to bad weather we were inside on treadmills). I took a couple of breaks. Scott told me to scale back a bit. I did, but I was mad at myself for doing it. If I continued I would slipped off the treadmill.

I just felt like lead tonight, no matter what I did. My mind was also being a mess. In the shower I felt like I had failed. I hung my head and felt low. I met up with Scott and talked about it. He did not seem concerned. He told me it is much better to get the bad sessions out of the way early. He told me I am very much on pace for my sub 6 hour marathon. So this made me feel a bit better.

On the train ride home I thought some more about it. I know my running has improved, and I have to be patient and cut me some slack. I am a much better runner than I was 3 years ago. I am a stronger person, and there is still 3 months until the marathon.

When I am in a down mood, I tend to forget the strengths I have. Emails from friends lately have pointed out to me how strong I am. I am reminded of things I have overcome. Most importantly I reminded myself on the train that I am the guy who finished the marathon in Arizona with blisters and pain...and I DID IT! I CAN DO IT AGAIN!

So this workout is behind me...time to get it in gear!

:-)Charlie

The Week Ahead

So now we are under three months until the Chicago Marathon. Here is what the week looks like.

Today: 3 X 1600m tempo runs

Wednesday: 4 miles and strength training

Thursday: 5 miles

Saturday 9.5 miles at Waterfall Glen. I'll talk more about that later.

I want to add a couple extra miles in there this week as well.

Over all I am pleased with the training. This last weekend I was not as fast as I like, but we have those days. It's all a process.

:-)Charlie

Running Two Races at Once

I have done the incredibly almost impossible. I am running two races at once. Yup....it's true.

I have entered (drum roll) The Phedippidations Worldwide Half Marathon!

www.worldwidehalf.com

This race was created by Steve Runner, host of the incredible Phedippidations podcast. From the website:

The World Wide Web, and the Internet have drawn people all over the world together, and dissolved barriers to communication and isolation. Runners, are by nature, social creatures who seek to share their experiences on the road, compete with each other, and establish friendships that transcend their individual beliefs, cultures and localities.

The sole purpose of the Phedippidations World Wide Half Marathon is to remove the barriers to camaraderie, with the intention that like minded athletes who harbor this passion for running, could share a single experience of competing in a world wide event.

The Phedippidations World Wide Half Marathon is a free, non-commercial event where everyone is invited to register, train and run with us in the spirit of friendship.

So how is it I can run this? You can either create your own 13.1 mile course, or enter a race. As it so happens I will be in the Chicago Marathon on Oct. 7, and will use the time of my first half as my official race.

I like the premise of this - people all over the world running in community with others. The race is free to enter. All you need is a course. Easy to do. You can use any course you like. You have the whole world to choose from.

If a half marathon is too daunting, you can enter the "Kick the Couch 5K". you can register for that at the same website. So c'mon...join us as we "Think global, run local!"

:-)Charlie

Long Run Saturday - 8 Miles

Today was a hot and humid 8 mile run along Chicago's lakefront. Temperatures were in the 80's. I have not run in a lot of humid weather this year, so I can see I will have to get used to it. Time wise, I finished the 8 miles in 1:42:12, which is a 12:46/mile pace. Not great, but considering how hard this was, I'll take it.

This run was a lesson in hydration. I took sports drink with me, and made sure I was drinking, but it never felt like enough. I took walking breaks around 6 mile mark, which really slowed me down. Still I was very glad to be running at the end. My marathon group was there cheering me on as I caught up with them.

My main worry had been about my right heel. It has been bothering me. My manager at the store thinks I may have pinched a nerve. My shoes need to be replaced, but they are on back order, and have not arrived yet. So my body is really feeling the effects of older shoes.

Now that it is summer, I also have to remember to put sunscreen on. So stay hydrated and protecting myself from the sun are the important lessons of the day!

:-)Charlie

Running to Cope

Yesterday’s entry made it seem like I am really down. I want to be clear – I’m not. I just have a lot in my head as I get back on the job hunt. Job hunts create stress. The good thing is I find running helps. It not only clears my head, but it is something I do for me.

I believe in times of trouble, sadness, stress, or a low period, we need to be even better to ourselves. This can take any form. When my mom was dying, I went once a week for a massage. I found it not only healthy physically, but it was tremendous for me mentally.

So what does running do? It allows me to focus on something other than the outside world. For the 30 – 60 minutes I am running (longer soon), I can just think about what is ahead of me on the path, road or course.

Running allows me to check how my body is doing. What seems to be working ok, what is in pain. Do I notice anything different?

As I have written before, I also use running as meditation. I think I need to do more of that these days. The time running is a terrific opportunity for me to pray, think, meditate, and mentally talk with God.

My normal readers know I am not the most religious person on the planet. I am spiritual, and believe in a solid one on one relationship with God. Ok…that is about as preachy as I will ever get.

My point, which I am taking forever to get to, is if things are not working too well in your world…find something to help you cope. It is amazing that once you focus on that activity, it raises your spirits and improves your mood – even if it is temporary.

:-)Charlie

Sometimes I Struggle

A belated Happy 4th of July to all my American friends. Sorry I did not post yesterday.

The idea yesterday was to run a few miles, but I didn't. My right ankle was being a bother, and to be honest, I didn't feel I had it in me. I did swim at a friend's place though, so I did get some exercise going.

Today's run was 5 miles. I did 4.1. I know...I can hear you all saying, "C'mon Charlie, it was only .9 miles to go." I know. Again I did not have it in me. I feel good I could run though.

So what was going on? As I mentioned a few days ago, I am trying to look for a new job. So there is a lot of inner stuff going on. I feel good that I got 4.1 miles though. You can't let the inner turmoil keep you from what you need to do - RUN!

So I got 4.1 miles in the bank. Saturday is a long run of 8 miles. We are creeping up to the 90s this weekend, so I will have to make sure I am taking water or sports drink with me. Got to stay hydrated!!!

Tomorrow if I have time I will squeeze in a couple miles. It's two-job Friday, so I won't have a lot of free time.

:-)Charlie

5 Mile Tempo Run

Last night's group run was a 5 mile tempo run. I ran with a woman from our group. Our goal pace was 11:00/mile. We started out well, but got slower as the time went on. Part of the problem was me. I had some soreness in my left calf, so at the half way mark, I told her I needed to walk for a minute. She was fine with that. It killed our time, and I apologized to her later.

Still both of us ran hard. My feet are still sore this morning from the hard running we did. We finished the run in 1:00:34 or 12:06/mile. Clearly we were off our pace. Overall though I think it was a good run.

I apoligized to the woman for our slow time. She reminded me of something I write often and had told her about. She said, "Charlie...life is a marathon, not a sprint." I knew it was ok then.

Today is a cross train day. Tomorrow I will rest, then Thursday is a 5 mile day.

:-)Charlie

June Running

So the book is closed on June. Let's see how I am doing running:

June:
64.03 miles
11:51/mile

May:
23.06 miles
13:28/mile

April:
37.98 miles
11:54/mile

March:
23.06 miles
12:07/mile

February:
24.32 miles
13:00/mile

January:
24.32 miles
15:26/mile

Of course with marathon training my miles shot up this month. It only increases here on out.

:-)Charlie

7 Miles to Think

Today's long run was a diffiuclt one for me. This one was on our own. No coaches or group today. So it was just me and the iPod on the lakefront. Well....there were others - like all the other marathon training groups. Hehehehe....

My friends this was a mentally tough run, because I didn't want to do it. Yesterday I was let go from my job at the college. I had been there are year in event organizing, and without going through a long story, I was let go. So this morning when I woke up, the idea of tackling 7 miles seemed a lot. I did it though.

My pace on these runs is supposed to be 12 min/mile. My first mile was 10:30. Too fast. Way too fast. So I eased up a bit. My next mile was 11:50. That was more like it. That was a typical mile for me. My worst mile was 13:20. I guess that made up for the blazing first mile. :-)

I ended the run at1:23:24 or 11:54/mile. That is good for now. Last week I was at 11:53/mile, so I am staying on pace, and that is a good thing.

So during the run I tried to listen to the music, but I kept thinking about finding a job, making money, etc. Yes, I still have the job at Fleet Feet, and that is great. It does not make up for the lost income at the college. So I felt a lot of weight on my shoulders during this run.

To be honest, I am not even sure how I was able to stay on pace. I felt gross the whole run too.

Still chalk up another success training run though!

By the way - if you know anyone who needs a bright, hard working person for their nonprofit organization, I am available.

:-)Charlie

Our Marathons

The marathon as most of us know is 26.2 miles. This gets a bit confusing for the non-runners in our lives. The minute we mention any distance over maybe 3 miles, they think that is a marathon.

I am going to go out on a limb though and say there official marathons, and there are those marathons we strive for. Let me explain. A marathon is clearly a challenge for those of us who run them, but what about the challenges of others?

It used to be that running 1 mile was a marathon for me. Yesterday I got an email from my sister, celebrating her first month of aerobics. She has weight loss goals and may eventually try running. She briefly compared what she is doing to my training. I think that is a wrong comparison. Her marathon or challenge is to accomplish her goals. That is unique and special, and I am so very proud of her.

I am proud of anyone who sets out to accomplish something which will better their health. This marathon could be to run a 5K, or swim the English Channel, or maybe walk 10 miles. It really doesn’t matter. What does matter is the attempt, and hopefully accomplishing the goal.

We should celebrate these efforts. I would love to hear from some of you about your efforts, as I would live to celebrate them on this blog – if I may.

:-)Charlie

Easy Does It

Tonight was a 4.16 mile run. I took it easy. Frankly I was tired - especially after last night's tempo run. I ran in 52:25. This was clearly over a 12 min/mile pace. I was ok with this though.

I ran up to Evanston - the first northern suburb in the Chicago area.

It was a grey cool night, and felt good outside.

Tomorrow is a rest day...and I will take full advantage of it.

:-)Charlie

Tempo Runs

Tempo runs are an odd, yet exhilarating thing to do. Last night’s training was 4 x 800m. So I ran 4 half miles at an accelerated pace each time.

Scott, our head coach, had me run an easy mile. I did this at 5 m.p.h. Once that was done I had a minute rest, then I could begin tempo work. My first 800m was at 5.6 m.p.h. Once that was done I did a 3 minute walk. The second 800m was at 5.8, followed by a 3 minute walk. The third 800m was at a clip of 6.0 m.ph., again followed by a 3 minute walk. The final 800m was at 6.2. This was followed by an easy mile at 5.0.

I am very happy to say I accomplished all the speed work last night. I was really flying those last two exercises. Note – due to thunderstorms in the area, we trained on the treadmills at the gym. By the time I got to the last mile, I felt kind of pokey.

Scott told me this work is designed to ramp up my speed for race day. My body will know how to speed, and then ease into a pace. I also know this work is good for Lactate Acid Threshold work. From running online:

Stamina trains the body to tolerate moderate levels of lactic acid in the blood while running at a significantly faster pace than aerobic conditioning (where there is very little lactic acid production). Lactic acid is the by-product of "oxygen debt" when we try to run fast for any length of time.

Stamina has become synonymous with a more modern term called lactate threshold training. Your lactate "threshold" is the speed just below the point at which lactic acid is being produced at a faster rate than it can be removed from the bloodstream. Research has shown that this running speed where your lactate threshold occurs is the single greatest determinant of distance running performance.

I felt amazing at the end of this. It was hard work though. Scott told me he could see me increasing my speed to a sub-5 hour marathon. I laughed, and said, let’s just see what I can do. Good to know he has that confidence in me.

Tonight is an easy 4 mile run.

:-)Charlie

Image - Self and Otherwise

“Image,” as the saying goes, “is everything.” Maybe this is true. I know that we as humans have varying issues with self image. This hit home with me yesterday as I spoke with a friend of mine.

This friend talked about how he lost weight, and then gained it back, but would like to lose the weight. The problem is he is worried about how he looks when he loses weight. He told me his last weight loss was pretty dramatic, and people asked if he had AIDS because he lost a lot of weight. This really bothered him. It would bother me too.

He also told me because he is older he is afraid of what his body will look like with the lost weight. He does not want flab. I looked him in the eyes and told him, he probably would have some, but he has to learn to be comfortable with his own skin.

In my case, I have excess skin. To be honest, I don’t think it looks very pretty, but I don’t focus a lot on it. I can understand how it would upset people. I did think about having surgery to get rid of the skin, but I have read a few too many horror stories about scars and damage. I will take extra skin over scars.

Back to my friend….

He told me how much he idolizes what I have done, but said he was not sure he could do it, because he doesn’t want to run. You all know what I said to this….”Don’t run.” I told him, as I have told all of you, you do not have to run. You do have to move your body in some fashion to be active. Tennis, swimming, walking, skipping rope, yoga, whatever, will get you moving and feeling better. I run. It’s what I do.

He was also concerned how people would look at him. During this conversation I noticed he kept fidgeting and looking around. He was seeing if people were watching him. We were in a very gay establishment, and there were lots of young thin men there. He confessed he hated the fact gay men are not attracted to fat men. I told him there is an image issue, but there are also many larger gay men with partners, boyfriends, significant others, etc. It is not always about the image….but it can be about the image you project.

I offered to help with his weight loss, but in the end it is his decision. I told him I would offer any assistance I could. He thanked me. We will see.

:-)Charlie

3 MIles....Sweating it Off

Tonight I ran 3 miles on the treadmill. It had been raining out. You all know what a weather wimp I am. I did the 3 miles in 35:06. I also did a mini workout, and about 100 crunches! Yes...ouch!

Crunches hurt like hell...especially after the pilates class last night.

Tomorrow we do speed work 4X800m. I am really looking forward to this as I have not done speed work before. I will go over speed work, and what it all means tomorrow.

:-)Charlie

Pushed Hard

Last night's workout was purposely tough. I did about 40 minutes of strength training, then I ran 2 miles, then pilates class. Yes...I was tired after.

The routine for my strength training went well. I upped all the weights by about 15 lbs. So my arms and legs felt it. The run was at a 11:44 pace. I felt good with that pace, and I worked up a good sweat. Pilates was the killer. We did some serious abs work last night. Owwww...did I feel it this morning when I woke up.

Still I think this is all paying off. I already feel like a stronger runner. I am defintely doing a good job with my sub-12 min/mile pace.

Tonight my goal is to run 5k. It is heading to 90 degress today, so hydration will be the key.

:-)Charlie

Around the World - Sunday Rest Day

I will post later in the day about pilates....I wanted to say I am floored about where people in the world are who read this blog. Wow! France, Spain, Africa, Malaysia, UK, Ireland, Canada, and all over the U.S.

Hi to all of those who are reading...special shout out to a certain someone in Georgia who does not run, but I bet I can get him to run. :-)

Comments and questions are always welcome. I appreciate any feedback you may want to share.

Yesterday was a rest day. I did not run or work out. I worked and watched people run all day at the store(I work in a running store - to those who are new here). One woman was so excited to be training for her first race. So we talked about how to prepare and train, as well as what she can expect on race day. I love talking to people about that stuff.

Today will be a strength and pilates day. As usual I will share how it all goes later. Just wanted to say HELLO!

:-)Charlie

6 Mile Long Run

Today was the 6 mile long run, the first real long run with the group. I was kind of excited, because I was in the 12:00 pace group with one other person. Sadly he did not show up, so as usual I was on my own. Thank God I brought the iPod.

So the goal was a 12:00 pace. I finished 1:11:21 - 11:53 a mile. So I finished ahead of the pace. Since this is not a blazing pace, I am happy with it. It was a coolish, light drizzle day. Actually it was good for running. This will change soon enough, when it will be hotter than Hell!

The Chicago lakefront is always wonderful to run. I love this city, and seeing it on the path is a joy for me.

Now....breakfast!!!

:-)Charlie

Weighty Issues

Those who know me, and regulars to this blog know my history with weight. It is something I deal with everyday, and know I will for the rest of my life. I accept that. Some days I make good eating choices, other days not.

For the record, I am not on a diet. I have not been on one in 4 years. I just watch what I eat, and try to control the emotional eating. Again...not always successful, but I work at it.

When I started the marathon program I was 210. Yesterday I was 206! Four pounds gone so far. Again though, I do not keep track everyday. I learned how much I fluctuate...and we all do. So I would get upset when I would see I had gone up a good deal in a day. Daily weigh in make no sense to me. Every couple of weeks suits me.

I know my friends read my blog, and I try not to embarrass them, and what I may say may do that. I apologize ahead of time.

I had dinner with a friend a couple nights ago. I had a rough day...and a bad run. I was very hungry. I decided to have "breakfast" for dinner. I ordered a steak burger with eggs. This came with an English Muffin and hash browns. I also had an orange juice. He asked me if it was ok to eat that. I told him what all in the meal was good, and what was not. The hash browns were the bad, and I ate maybe 1/3 of them.

I find my body tells me what it needs. I had not had meat in over a week. Eggs are a terrific source of protein. There was also a banana - potassium.

I appreciate what my friend was doing...looking out for me. That's great. I don't want to seem ungrateful. I was just fine that night. Had I ordered dessert...that would have been a different story!

I also know during this training, I will gain some weight...that will be muscle. Woo hoo....I will be muscle man!

Today is a rest day - resting!

:-)Charlie

Today Was Better

Yes...today was a better running day. We had to do 4 miles on our own. My ankles were stiff, so I chose to run on the treadmill. I ran the 4 miles in 45:29. That's a time I can live with. I was sweating like mad. Lord knows I worked for this 4 miles.

Tomorrow is a rest day. I may cross train. Saturday morning is a 6 mile group run. Should be interesting. We should know our pace schedule and times by then.

So now as we come to the end of week two, I am feeling like a better runner already. I feel a bit stronger.

Hoping for a good run on Saturday.

:-)Charlie

5K - Blech!

Tonight's 5K was not a great run. I went out fast, and I think that was a mistake. I ran the 5K in 38:46. There was a time that I would be happy with that time, but not tonight. I never felt good during the run. My mind was not on the run.

I had too many outer issues going on, and it messed with my head. I would love to hear from someone how they stay focused during a race. I have yet to master this.

Tomorrow is a 4 mile run. I think I will be up for it. Friday is a rest day. Saturday is 6 miles. WOW!

Charlie

5.5 Miles...and Felt Just Ok

Tonight was my run with the Frontrunners. It was just ok...on various levels. I ran 5.5 miles in 1:05:30, which is ok. I guess I was expecting more from the group. They did welcome me nicely, but once we got running, no one ran with me. They were either way ahead, or way behind. So I ran alone. I wasn't happy about it. When I got back to the group, they were all talking about an event coming up, so no one really talked to me.

I know....groups like this can be one big clique(sp), I guess if I went again it would be ok. I just feel if I am going to run in a group, someone has to be at my level. The people behind me were walkers, or only running 3 miles. I had to get at least 5 miles in. So as the group passed me on the way back, a couple waved....but that was it.

Anyway...I am just glad to get the miles in. The time I was not worried about, though I was dragging at the end. Tomorrow night is an optional 5L run with the training group. I will see how I feel about doing it.

:-)Charlie

Pilates Class - I LIke It!

Last night's pilates class went really well. I think I am getting the hang of it. It also helps that more people from my training group were there, so I have someone to talk to.

I see the importance of pilates, and have really noticed I am a bit straighter when I run. So clearly the core is getting what it needs out this workout. I can see me continuing with the class once this portion of the training is over. Pilates is only the first month of training. Then it is optional.

On the agenda tonight? There is a gay running group, which I have long thought about joining. I am going to meet up with them, and head out on a run to see if I like the group. Good opportunity to get a run in, and meet some new people. The Frontrunners are an international organization, with chapter in many major cities. Chicago is one of them.

http://www.frfwchicago.org/

:-)Charlie

By the Way...

New picture on the blog! Was taken at the Green Bay Half Marathon! Someone told me the picture makes me look tall. I'm sitting, how can I look tall?

Anyway, any change to be a bit taller is welcome.

:-)Charlie

The Right Shoe

This will seem like a no-brainer post, considering I work at Fleet Feet, but it needs to be said. All of you need to be fitted for the correct running shoe. This was the painful lesson I learned in Arizona, as I ran with blisters.

I can not tell you how many times a week a customer will come to the store and complain of pains. In many cases, these people are running in whatever sale shoe they found at Target. I still remember the day three women came into the store at varous times....they had knee pain, and had been running in basketball shoes. YIKES!

We all run differently. Some of us supinate - run on the outside of our feet. Most overpronate, running with the foot turning in. For the overpronator, there are varying levels of stabilty shoes. These are shoes which will minimize that roll inwards. For us supinators, we wear nuetral cushioned shoes. These shoes are designed to really take the impact of the road, so our feet won't.

It is best to have someone watch you run. People try to show me the bottoms of their shoes and figure from that how they run. That doesn't do much, because, depending on the shoe, you won't see what you really need to see. For the record, showing someone the wear on the heel is no good, because almost all of us step the same way - heel first. So the heel does look worn.

Once you have been analyzed, it comes down to which shoe feels best on your feet. I find, whichever one feels best is the winner. Ideally, it should not feel like you are wearing a shoe.

If you do not have running store near you, see if there is someone who can do a gait analysis. Of course you are all welcome to come to Chicago to be fitted by me. :-)

Charlie

Time Trial Saturday

Today was the 5K time trial for our training group. With the times, Scott can figure out what pace we need to be at for our marathon goals. I ran fast, though not as fast as the other day....that was rare. Today I ran the 5K in 34:07. That is a 5K PR for me. It comes to about 11:00 a mile. I am more than happy with that.

After the run, we had a nutrition class. At this point this is the breakdown we should have in our diets:

Carbohydrates - 55-60% of total intake
Protein - 20% of total intake
Fat - 20-25% of total intake.

Emily the nutritionist, gave us a shopping list broken down into these categories:

Staples
Fruits/Vegetables
Dairy
Meat
Breads and Cereals
Snacks
Miscellaneous

The idea is to write down what we are taking in. I'll give it a try.

Tomorrow I may cross train a bit before work. No running though.

:-)Charlie

Rest

Yesterday and today I am resting. I was pretty sore after the Wednesday night workout. I did think about getting up to run a few miles this morning, but that passed. :-) The thought was tomorrow is the 5K time trial, I need to save some energy for that.

As far as I understand, the time trial is used to detemine paces for us during training. So the idea is not to run the fastest 5K, but to run a pretty good one. This will determine goals and paces for us in future group runs.

So no blazing runs for me tomorrow. I want to achieve a sub-6 hours marathon, not a sub-3 hour.

I am beginning to like the group run aspect. I am wondering if I should join a running group. I've thought about it before, but always felt running was a solitary thing. It still is, but I think a group run now and again is a good thing. Chicago has plenty of groups. I was reading up on the Frontrunners, a gay and lesbian running group. That might be my best bet. Plenty of time to think about it.

:-)Charlie

Oh My Frickin GOD!

There is a lot to be said for having someone pace you. When that pacer is the head training coach and manager of the gym, you know you are in for a HARD workout. Tonight was a run and a strength workout. We ran about 4 miles. I'll call it 3.9

My running partner was Scott - the gym manager, and head coach of our training group. I want you to pay close attention to what I am about to write, because I could not believe it. I did the 3.9 miles in - 37:07:59. My usual 4 mile run is in the 11:40-12:30 a minute range, or 48-50 minutes. This was one HELL of a run. I was red and dripping sweat when we got back to the gym.

Of course the fun had just started. At the gym we had a routine of 4 sets of 15 reps of crunches, chest presses, shoulder presses, lat work, back strength, lunges, and leg presses. Scott and Kristin made sure it was all just difficult enough. No slacking here. When I got in the shower afterwards, I could barely raise my arms to wash my hair.

I ate a dinner of a chicken ceasar at Nookies....and the adorbale cute waiter guy was so sweet. He told me he appreciates what I am doing, but no way in HELL is he running. That's ok. As long as he is a hunk and brings me more iced tea, all is good.

Tomorrow is a rest day - and boy will I need it!!!

:-)Charlie

Yummy Food Idea

One of the best parts of Runner's World magazine is the recipes each month. Here is the latest.

1 cup Forbidden rice (black heirloom rice) simmered in 2 cups of broth for 30 minutes
2 cups total of mini vegetables: zucchini, yellow squash, corn, carrots, green beans, eggplant
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves crushed garlic
1/2 cup chopped roasted almonds
1/2 cup chopped parsley
3 tablespoons Chinese dressing (soy sauce/sesame oil/vinegar type)In large skillet, sauté with garlic.
Add mini vegetables and brown lightly for three minutes. Cover with lid and cook until just tender. Place fluffed rice, vegetables, and remaining ingredients in a bowl. Toss lightly and chill in the refrigerator for two hours. Makes six servings.
Calories: 200
Fat: 10 g (< 1 g saturated fat)
Carbs: 29 g
Protein: 7 g

:-)Charlie

A Nice Jog

Today I decided to add some miles to the training, so I went for a nice 4.16 mile jog. I felt good out there. This is good practice for the group run tomorrow night.

I felt no pain today. I also felt no pain from the pilates from yesterday. I tried breathing today like we do in pilates. I was able to run a little straighter bodywise. So it was an overall good run.

Tonight I am making spaghetti with turkey and spinach in the sauce - yum!

:-)Charlie

Father's Day Story - Early

Let’s consider this an early Father’s Day story….

Yesterday I worked at Fleet Feet, and a guy came in looking all happy and energetic. He was a construction worker – a big burly guy. I asked if I could help him. He smiled, and told me he was interested in running shoes. He had never run except over the weekend; ran three miles, and found he really liked it.

I sat him down, and went through the process….asking about miles run, injuries, anything which would help me fit him with shoes. I took measurements and watched him run. During the process, I asked why he started running. He told me his daughter is a runner in school (“made it to state,” he beamed!!!) He explained that he was running, so he could do something with her. He also said that at 38 he knew he wanted to stay around a long time for her. I thought that was really cool.

I got him into some shoes, and he asked about running clothes. He tried on several items, and asked about all the wicking materials. I told him about the evils of cotton and the importance of dry weave running clothes. He was always smiling and very happy to learn it all.

At the end of the transaction, I asked him if he had any personal running goals. He told me he wants to run a 5K with his daughter. I looked up and printed a couch to 5K plan for him. We also talked a bit about nutrition. He really appreciated all my efforts.

I told him that he must be a really great dad for wanting to do all of this with his daughter. He told me how much he loved her, and just wanted to be sure he was around for many years to come. Before he left, he told me his name was Jim. We shook hands, and I told him to feel free to come back anytime, even if he just has running questions.

I know not all parents are able to share activities with their kids, but this guy really did a lot for parenthood!

:-)Charlie

Pilates....It's Cool

Ok...I have decided I like pilates! It is hard. I can't do it all, but I decided tonight, I don't have to do it all...at least for now. I like the stretching and abs crunching aspects. It is hard. No one lies when they say it.

I thought about it as I had legs in the air, try to touch my toes....running 26.2 miles is much harder, and I have already done that once! So I can at least try this - no matter how silly I look.

Tomorrow would be yoga class...that isn't happening. I will figure out another training activity.

:-)Charlie

Sunny 5 Miler

It is a beautiful day in Chicago. It's sunny and warm, and a good day for 5 miles. I ran from home to the lakefront path. I took it slower than normal. I wanted to really pay attention to my body as I ran. I left the IPod at home, and enjoyed the sights and sounds around me.

I ran into a couple of customers from the store along the route. We shouted hellos, and looking goods!

I could have done 6 miles today, but the miles will ramp up soon enough in the training. For today though a 5 mile run in 1:03:05 isn't too bad.


:-)Charlie

Choose Your Exercise

It's really funny. There are times I will be talking to someone about running, and it is clear I am very passionate about it. At some point, I may hear this, "Well I don't want to run." Or something close to that. Let me be clear....nobody has to run!

My feeling is if you want to exercise, choose the one you enjoy. Walking, playing a sport, doing aerobics, dancing, whatever. The point is to move your body. I certainly do not expect people to run like I do. Actually....no one should run like I do...hahaha! If you want to lose weight, maintain weight loss, or just work on being healthier, find the exercise which suits you best! I should warn you though...sitting on the couch and watching sports....is not exercise.

I am not, nor will I ever be a Body Nazi! But I will encourage people to get up and get moving! so move!

:-)Charlie

First Group Run

Hehehe....I have to use the term group run loosely. Everyone ran far ahead of me tonight. Tonight's run was 4.5 miles along the lakefront path. I ran with Kristin, the pilates instructor. I told her her job was to help bring up the rear, and I was the rear.

Still I did well tonight. I covered the 4.5 miles in 52:04. I was last one home, but it really doesn't matter. I am not racing these folks. I am told I was looking good out there!

I talked with Scott(the gym manager) and Kristin about the yoga incident. They told me they would help me find a class better suited for me, and were very sorry about what happened. So I feel a bit better about the situation.

So tomorrow is a rest day, and I am really going to rest. No class or run!

:-)Charlie

Yoga - Ugh!

Yes the title of this entry says it all. I am not sure which type of yoga this was tonight, but I hated it. I could not do most of the things, mostly because of my leg and feet issues. I felt very depressed about this, and all of my childhood nightmares about looking odd and stupid came to pass.

My feeling is I will find a yoga class I CAN do. The instructor was nice enough, but I could tell she was not too fond of the heavyweight guy in the back trying and failing.

Yes...yes...I understand you do what you can in yoga, but this was too terrible for me. I will say this I attempted everything! And that was important for me.

I think I will stick with pilates.


Charlie

My First Pilates Class - Ummm...Ow!

Well I now know pilates is not a Polish dessert. It is strength training for your core - abs! The trainer was nice, but told us this was a bit of an advanced class, but we would catch on. I did...but OW!

My legs and feet have limited range of motion, so some of the the exercises were a bit tough to do, but I was game and tried everyone of them, no matter how stupid I looked. The trainer talked to a couple of us after class, and gave us some pointers on how to make it a bit easiter.

After the class I ran 1 mile on the treadmill. I used a hill setting, and did pretty well.

When I went to the locker room, I weighed myself. I didn't want to, and I got depressed when I did - 210 lbs. So I have gained 10 of the 100 back. I won't eat myself into a stupor over this. I knew I gained. I just did not want to see 210.

So I have some work to do. Tonight was a good first step. Dinner consisted of a PBJ sandwich, a glass of soymilk, and a banana. My lunch was the big meal today - a grilled chicken salad.

Tomorrow yoga!

Charlie

And So It Begins...The Road to Chicago 26.2

Tomorrow I will begin my journey to the 2007 LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon - my training program begins. Just a reminder here is what June will look like for me:

Monday - Pilates
Tuesday - Yoga
Wednesday - Short Runs/Strength Training
Thursday - Short Runs
Friday - Rest
Saturday - Long Runs
Sunday Rest

Rest will be a relative term. I will cross train some off days. Some days I will do nothing. I will gauge all of this as I go.

In addition to the program, I am going to get back to better eating. My habits have not been great, and I feel gross. If I am going to be successful in this marathon, I need to eat better. Healthier eating will also aid my recovery as the training gets intense.

So what is success for this marathon? Clearly success in the marathon in Phoenix was to finish. This time I am kicking it up a notch. I have a time and physical goal. I am looking for a sub-6 hour finish in the marathon. This means 5:59:59 or better. Realistically, anything between 6-6:10 would be fine, but I want to crack 6 hours. I believe this program can help me get there.

To do this I need to be leaner and meaner. Tomorrow I will weigh myself. I know at times I have moved up to 206 lbs. I want to be under 200 at the start of this race. Ideally, I would like to be closer to 190 lbs, but I understand that I there are times you gain weight in marathon training. This is where my eating habits will really have to improve.

Now am I going to be disappointed if I do not reach either goal? I'll be honest...yes, for a bit. But as long as I do my best, and work hard, I will happy with crossing the finish line.

My blog goal is to take you every step of the way with me on this journey. I will share how the training is going, and my thoughts and feelings. Please feel free to comment or ask questions during this. I want interaction so I will not feel I am on my own in this.

I hope all of my Chicago friends will be a part of my curb crew and come out to cheer me on. If there is anyone else out there training, let me know or share with us how your training is going.

There are four of us at my store running the marathon: Spencer, Sarah, Matt and me. I can tell you now, I will be the last one to cross the finish line, but I know we will all be cheering each other on during these next few months.

I am also psyched when I talk to fellow marathoners at the store, and learn about how they are doing. The running community is truly an encouraging group of people. I learn so much from my customers.

So there you have it. The journey begins tomorrow, and I hope to have you all along with me.

:-)Charlie