Man it is HOT Out There!

Today was a scortcher in Chicago. It was hot an humid. So naturally I went on a 4 mile run this evening. Now had it been earlier in the day I would have died. I felt pretty good out there tonight. I decided to change up the interval due to the heat. Instead of 8/1, I did 6/1. This worked well in the sweltering heat.

Lots of folks were running after work. Some even seemed not to mind the heat, and greeted me as I would go by. That was nice.

I felt much better today than in the botched 10 mile attempt last weekend. While I doubt I could have done 10 miles.....I was fine with 4.

This was a tempo run, and I did negative splits, so something worked. My pace was 11:45/min. Not too shabby. I still have a 6 mile and a 10K to run this week. Hope it gets a touch cooler.

Charlie

The Long Run That Wasn't

Today the goal was 10 miles. What happened was I ran 5 in a nasty heat. I went slowly, and changed my interval after the first couple of miles. At mile 4 I walked about a 1/4 mile. I felt miserable. Our weather has not been anywhere close to this since last summer. I saw a lot of people suffering out there. I was not suffering, but I wasn't in good form.

I stopped at 5 miles and I am ok with that for today. There is always another long run.

Charlie

No Boundaries - The Race

Last night was graduation for my No Boundaries runners. Their target for the previous 9 weeks was to train for the Jim Gibbons 5K. We had about 20 in our program, and of that about 12 ran the race last night. While I was happy for my folks, it was a bittersweet night, as Mark could not run after the seizure he had the other day. He went to cheer folks on, but it was obvious how sad he was.

I promised to pace a group of the women. Once the race start off we went. Our pace was a 4:00 run/1:00 minute walk. I ean with Rosie, Kathy, Colleen and Jen. Jen was Mark's running buddy during this program, and he was so worried she would have no one to run with. Are you kidding? She was our timer. :-)

It was a humid warm night, so we did not go at a blazing speed. The course is in Grant Park, and along Lake Michigan. If you have not run along Lake Michigan in Chicago, you should. The city makes an ideal back drop for any run.

For the most part the race was fine. Rosie was the motivational gal. Kathy was just wanting to finish. Colleen was a bit ahead of us. Jen was the determined one. I was talking with all of them, and making sure they were ok.

As we got to the last 1/4 mile, we ran into the walkers. I wish there had been better markings so runners did not have to weave through the walkers. Rosie kept yelling, "Runners on the left....move please!"

I told them my first 5K was in 45:00, and hoped we would beat that. We did....we crossed the line in 43:30! Jen hugged me as soon as we crossed the line. There were high fives from the other gals. When we got back to our tent, the rest of the runners were there, and they were all so happy. Josh was most pleased. He finished in 30:01. His goal was to run in under 10:00/mile and he did. He was the guy who told us at the start he wanted to run so he could out run zombies. I believe he made that!

This No Boundaries was an incredible experience. I loved training these folks and getting them ready. How many will keep running will be interesting to see.

Charlie

Telling Your Guy He Can't run

One of the hardest things a coach can do is tell his athelete he shouldn't run. I had to tell Mark this yesterday after he had a seizure on the train coming home. When he has these his body hurts for days. I think the shock to the system really takes it toll on him

When I got to the hospital he was upset for many obvious reasons. One of them was he asked me what would he do about the 5K on Thursday? I told him he probably shouldn't run. He looked at me very sadly, and said, "But I worked so hard. Who will run with Jen?" Jen is his running buddy in No Boundaries.

I told him Jen would certainly understand. I also joked that there are more 5K's than you can shake a stick at.

Still I understood his pain. No runner likes to be told they can't run. We are a stubborn group of people who love running and racing. There will be other days and other races.

I am so sad for him today though.

Charlie

Summer Came

Chicago has been in the month of Junetober as I call it. We have had a cold month, which is ideal for running. Yesterday was summer. It was warm, and a touch humid as I ran my 6 miles. I went along the Chicago River which is a nice run.

The run itself was ok, though my was a bit achy as I went along. I felt exhausted at the end. Why is it a 6 mile run can drain you more than a 9 mile run?

Sometimes I get emotionally down when I am physcially spent. I felt down all day after the run. Hope this won't be the norm for the summer.

Still I am glad to get the 6 miles in. This week I have a 5K and then a 10 mile run on the weekend.

Charlie

Need to Slow Down - a 9 MIle Run

Today was my long run - 9 miles. I went out too fast. I think I get it in my head that I have to break some sort of barrier when I run. So I ran the first half in 53:56. I was much slower the second half. By mile 7.5 I felt I was dragging a bit. What this means is I need to learn to go out slower. How? Any suggestions?

One thing I was very happy with I managed to keep the 8/1 interval for all but one interval. I am getting stronger at the interval thing.

I ran along the lakefront. It was ideal. Temps were in the 60s and it was sunny. I felt comfortable, yet I was sweating up a storm. Most have hated this month - Junetober, but I have liked the cooler weather for running.

Next week the long run is 10 miles - phew! Looking forward to it.

Charlie

"Born to Run" by Christopher McDougall

For most runners when they talk about classic books about running, they mention, "Once a Runner" or "The Front Runner." I have read both those books, and while I understand what people are saying about them, I have never found them to be the magnificent books I am supposed to love. Maybe I just needed to find my classic. I have - "Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes , and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen" by Christopher McDougall.

McDougall is a contributing editor to "Men's Health" and has written as a correspondent for The Associated Press. I don't know where he has been all my life, but I am so glad to have found his latest book.

McDougall starts out with a basic question for his doctor, "Why does my foot hurt?" Never has a simple question led to an adventure. McDougall introduces readers to a little known tribe called Tarahumara Indians, who live in a remote area in Mexico. The Tarahumara have perfected the art of long distance running, and are able to run hundreds of miles without rest.

McDougall's adventure introduces us not only to this reclusive tribe, but to an amazing cast of characters who live to run. We meet Caballo Blanco, a mysterious presence in the Copper Canyon region where the Tarahumara live. His goal is not only to perfect to art of running, but to create the greatest race in the world. Ultramarathoners around the world, including champion Scott Turek meet the Tarahumara, and participate in the race.

The book reads like an adventure tale, but it is non-fiction. I think that is what I liked about this book. McDougall takes the readers on a wild ride into the world of the ultramarathoner. In doing so we also get a lesson in biology, anthropology, psychology and spirituality. This is one of the rare books I have read where I am truly sad to get to the last chapter and know the end is near.

I loved this book. This is one of those books I will be giving as gifts to people, because I want them to share the in the adventure. If you are a runner, you need to read this. If you aren't, but just love stories with interesting characters, and some life lessons along the way, this is your book.

Charlie

The Heart of an Ultramarathoner...The Body of a 5K Runner

I am reading an amazing book titled, "Born to Run" by Christopher McDougall. I will review it soon, but in short it looks at an amazing trible of ultramarathoners in Mexico. As you may know I am also a huge fan of ultramarathoner Dean Karnazes. It is safe to assume I am drawn to the ultramarathon. Sadly though, I know I can't run one.

For definition purposes an ultramarathon is a race longer than 26.2 miles. There are 50 mile, 100 mile, and probably 200 mile races that these hearty souls go out and attack. The climb mountains, endure the heat of the desert, wade through water and mud, always pushing their bodies to the ultimate limit.

I think it is that push, the desire to test your body which draws me in. Of course they are also testing themselves in some of the most stunning and fascinating places on Earth. My test is 26.2 miles, and I know I am even limited in that. I know my body is not a marathon body. My training for past marathons, and the race itself has pushed me hard. Anything beyond that might do more harm.

So I have to find the challenges in the races I can do. I have to find how hard I can go at shorter distances, with the occasional marathon. Inside though....I have the heart and desire of an ultramarathoner. I think once I realized I could go 26.2, I wondered about more.

Let's be clear, I am not saying I am going to start training for an ultra. I don't think I should. I think it would be horrible for my body. Still I can wish it.

Charlie

"I just ran..."

Sandra's comment to my last post reminded me of a post I wanted to write about for a while. Working in a running store, you have some interesting conversations about running. It comes with the territory that you will talk about the long run you did, or the speed work you ran. Normally the conversation goes like this:

A: How was your long run?

B: It was good, I felt great out there, a bit sore now.

A: How far did you go?

B: I just ran 15 miles.

This week I was part of a conversation like that, and I made the comment to the co-worker, "Do you know how odd that sounds to non-runners?" He didn't understand. I pointed out that 15 miles is normally something you do in a car, not on two feet. I think he got my point.

For runners the longer you run, and the longer distances you run, you find those longer miles "are just..." I say it like this for two reasons. First, because we are training for a marathon, and 8, 10, 15 miles is short compared to the 26. 2 we will do on race day. Second, I think it is a mental game we play. Make no mistake, running 8 miles as I did yesterday is not a breeze, but if we can make it sound like a breeze, mentally we are preparing for those longer runs. After you have run 15 or even 20, 8 miles seem light.

Today I'm not running. This week I have a 6 mile, a 5K time trial, and "just" 9 miles for my long run.

Charlie

The Run I Ran

Today I ran 8 miles. Nothing too odd about that. Originally though, threat of storms met I might run on the treadmill. Instead I headed up the road to Northwestern University. I ran without the the IPod today, and I was glad I did. I liked listening to the sounds around me. Mostly I listened to my breathing and my feet hitting the ground. My mantra in my head was to keep my steps light. This was something I learned in a book and I currently reading and will share with all of you once I am finished.

I enjoyed the run until I got to the 4 mile mark. I looked at the watch, and realized I left later than I thought. I had a meeting at 5:30, so I really ran home. I ended up with a pretty quick time - 1:36:10. That is roughly a 12:00/mile pace. That's faster than my goal. So then I got mad at myself for that. I know seems silly to be mad for going faster. I am trying though to stay on pace.

Still the day was pleasant and nice. Lots of people were in the parks have picnics, playing, or just out. I love seeing those scenes. All in all, much better than if I had run on the treadmill.

So another "week" of running is in the books. I look forward to more runs and trainings this week.

Charlie

Taking My Own Advice

Last night during No Boundaries, I talked about listening to your body. Today I am listening to mine. It is telling me my legs are feeling stiff, and not up to par. So no running today. I'll take it easy, and focus on the upcoming 8 mile run.

As people who know me will attest, I am not always good at following my own advice. Today though....I will.

No Boundaries went very well last night. We got to the 3 mile mark, with two weeks until the race. These folks are trying so hard, and I am so proud of them. If I can brag for a moment, I am especially proud of Mark. He is enjoying running, and I have noticed changes in him as far as his health. I can't wait to see him at the start of the 5K.

Charlie

National Running Day

Yesterday was National Running Day, and to celebrate - I ran. I had thought I would do the 6 mile run, but instead I did my 5 mile tempo run. It was a pretty good run.

While running I thought of some of my favortie running moments. In the end I came to a good conclusion. No matter how many medals I earn, or PR's I run, or races I enter, the fact is my favorite moment is when I put on the shoes and go for a run. 

Yes, I treasure my moments where I am crossing a finish line. I love the anticipation of the start of a race. I enjoy the challenge of figuring out my pace. More importantly though, I love the fact that a few times a week, I can head outside, run, and enjoy the world around me. I can get away from the world for a time and just be on my own. I can think, or not think. I can meditate. I can just be. That to me is perhaps the greatest running moment.

Charlie

7 Years Later - A Roller Coaster Ride

Today I went to Six Flags Great America. I have not been there since 2002. That summer I went to Six Flags with my friend Joe. I am a lover of roller coasters. On this particular day, I was embarassed and humiliated. I tried to ride the roller coasters, and I was asked to get off, because I was too big for the security guard to secure me. I spent that day watching my friend Joe ride the rides I wanted to ride.

Today I got to ride the roller coasters. Mark and I went to Six Flags, and I rode all the cool rides. It felt so good to be able to get in them, be secured and go. Just when I thought I had all the great moments as a result of losing weight, here was another one, and this one felt good! 

On an ironic note, while on one of the rides, I saw employees ask an overweight girl to get off the ride. The reason? She was too big and the secure restraints could not secure her. I felt sad for her, but it is my hope that one day she will have a moment like I had today. 

Another emotional moment for me.

Charlie

Spring in Evanston

My 7 mile run took me to the Northwestern University campus in Evanston. It is a gorgeous day, with temps in the 60s as I headed north along the lake. I felt very good during the run. I did really tire, but I noticed I slowed a bit in the last mile. Not too worried though.

As I have mentioned, I love days like this. Oh, but if only summer could be like this. 

I did take Nuun with me today, but I had a hand held bottle. I found it a bother to carry. So I will invest in a hydration belt. I was glad to have the Nuun though. I used Lemon Chai. Not too sweet. 

This week I have a 6/5/8 mile run schedule, as well as cross training.

Charlie

Who Needs Help With Shoes?

I realized as I have written this blog, that I have rarely used my shoe expertise in entries. So I was curious, does anyone have shoe questions? Afterall I fit people for running shoes on a daily basis. So feel free to ask questions, and I will do my best to answer.

Charlie

The Day in Running

True to my word I ran to work this morning. It was a 4.43 mile route from home to the store. It took me 54:57, which I was happy with, though I really did not pay attention to the watch during my run. It was pleasant, a bit overcast, but comfortable to run. 

The route took me from Rogers Park, to Edgewater, to Andersonville, to Lincoln Square. I was the only one running in a sea of people trying to get to work. I left the IPod at home, and enjoyed the run. My pace was comfortable, and never rushed.

At the end of the day, I ran with the No Boundaries folks. This went well. The run/walk people did a 3.5 minute run/1 minute walk interval 6 times. The group as a whole felt better about their run than last week. We are 3 weeks away from their first 5K. Getting excited.

Tomorrow....no running. I may go cross train, but no running until Sunday.

Charlie

Great Cross Train

Last night I headed to the gym for serious cross training. For 45 minutes I biked, did the eliptical, did 100 crunches and quite a bit of stretching. I felt l accomplished quite a bit for that workout. I was tired, but felt really good. 

This is the start of a concerted effort to really get my body stronger. I felt a lack of strength was an issue for me during the Soldier Field 10 Mile. My legs can only take me so far. A strong body is the other part of the equation.

Today I am resting. Tomorrow, I am planning on running to work, and later in the day running with the No Boundaries folks. This should be a challenge. I have never run twice in a day. We will see if the body is up to it.

Charlie

Recovery Means to Recover

Yesterday I attempted to run. In hindsight, I should have gone one more day before I ran. First I ran with our other stores' No Boundaries group. They had a Memorial Day morning run, which was nice. Afterwards I headed to the gym. The plan said to run 6 miles. In the end I ran 2.6 miles for the day. 

My feet were not really sore, but not really well. I found it difficult to keep going. So I stopped, and hopped on a bike, for a bit of cross training. I rode for 2 miles - hard. 

So the workout was short, but intense. As I have said, runners are a stubborn group of folks. We want to listen to our bodies, but we don't always listen. Tomorrow though is another day, and I will be working on 5 miles tomorrow - tempo style.

Charlie

2009 Soldier Field 10 Mile

It was a beautiful morning as a few thousand folks headed south from Soldier Field - home of Da Bears, only to turn around 5 miles down the way to finish back inside on the 50 yard line. 

I felt good for the first half. I didn't go out too fast. My splits were: 11:31, 12:05, 12:15, 12:16, 12:45. At mile 6 I began to slow a bit. I was also a bit dehydrated. I was taking fluids, but I don't think I was prepared before the race.

I knew I was not going to hit a PR today, but I felt I could hit 2:05. As I came out of the tunnel of the stadium and headed to the finish, I got the time I wanted - 2:05:31. Overall I am pleased.

Lessons learned?

Better hydrating. I am thinking it is time to take water with me on the longer runs.

Better conditioning. My body, while ok, did not feel as strong as it should. The gym and I are going to be friends!

Thoughts on the run?

I thought about my No Boundaries group. They felt down the other day, when they had no real reason to feel down. I could have been down that this wasn't my best race - I wasn't. Considering I have not run the distance in a year, I was pretty darned happy out there. I know that setbacks are tough, especially for runners, but I was trying to think how I could cheer the folks up.

I also thought about Mark. He was waiting for me at the finish line, so I was hoping he was ok. He fell last night and whacked his shin, so he has been in pain. After I crossed the finish line, I heard him yell my name, and I "ran" over to him. Very happy to see his smiling face.

The race itself was well run. Plenty of water out there. Plenty of port-a-potties. Great course. I give the race a thumbs up.

So today was a success. Now I am resting and drinking plenty of fluids. I bet I will sleep well tonight.

Charlie

The Goal

Because I have not been working on speed work, I am doubtful I will set a PR tomorrow for the Soldier Field 10 Mile. The PR is 2:03:48. I will be pleased with a 2:05. Of course if a new PR should happen, I would not upset. 

I am excited about running this race. I have not run 10 miles since last year's race, so this will give a me good idea of where I am at this point in the training. I probably should treat this as another training run. Still it's a race, and a good test for me. 

The plan is to be steady. We'll see if I can survive the start. I always go out too fast. 

Time for bed....morning will be here soon.

Charlie

No Boundaries - Discouraged

As runners we have a good runs and bad runs. I have talked about my bad runs. I'm taking a different point of view this time. This time I am talking as a coach. Last night a few of my No Boundaries people felt down. The run/walk folks were going to run for 3 minutes and walk for 1 minute. The program calls for that interval - 4 times. Instead what we normally do is the intervals, but going the same distance as the runners, which last night was 2 miles.

Some of the folks were down because they either walked more, or they did the interval they were supposed to do, and not cover the 2 miles. It was also a very warm night, which we have not had in Chicago for a while. I urged them not to be so hard on themselves. I pointed out that no one stopped running, everyone kept moving forward. That did not seem to help. Over the next day or so I am going to look for something to share with them, so they won't feel so bad.

Still this is a good lesson - not every run will be as successful as we like. I may need reminding of this at various points in the next few months - gently remind me. Not all runs are PR's. Not all runs are victorious. What we learn from these runs is the more important thing.

Charlie

What I Do

I have touched on this, but I want to go into what I do during a run. My goal is to run for 8 minutes and walk for 1 minute. I am a big believer in the run/walk method, especially as I get older. I have never been able to run a full race, and am not going to start now. 

I find with the 8 minutes of running, that is just long enough for me to run, and I am wishing to take a break. The walk I do at a fairly brisk pace. My goal is to keep this going for the marathon. There are times as the miles get longer I find I need to shorten the run. In that case, I try to hold on to 7 minutes before I walk. A good test of this will be this Saturday at the Soldier Field 10 Mile Race. We will see how this goes.

Another thing I do is tell myself a saying over and over again. I have come up with "Run within yourself." This is a true test for me. Anytime I am in a race I have to remember I am not racing the people around me, no matter how much I want to beat the 80 year old with the baby stroller and dog. So in saying this I am focusing on me, my form, my breathing and pace. 

As I have shared before, I use the mantra "world peace" to settle my breathing. I inhale on "world" and exhale on "peace. " I find after I do this I really settle into a good breathing pattern.

There was no run today. Today I rode the bike 10 miles in 32:33. It felt good to be pushing the pedal to the metal. 

Tomorrow I coach No Boundaries.

Charlie

A Quick Three

Today I ran a quick 3 mile tempo run. To be honest, the plan called for a 6 mile run, but time was not on my side. I had a Marathon Kids board meeting tonight. So I figured a quick 3 miles was better than not running.

It was pretty good. I cranked up the speed on the treadmill to 5.3. I really didn't tire until about 2.5 miles into the run. I slowed it down a bit. Overall thought I was quite happy with the run. 

I am feeling good about my running. Now I want to feel better about my body. I have not been doing what I need to do to be strong. A lot of that comes from lack of time. I am going to make a stronger effort. I am a little over 4 months until marathon day.

Charlie

What Lies Ahead?

I have never gone for the big job. Now don't get me wrong, I have applied for many jobs which were important to me. Some I have gotten, others I haven't. I have never gone for the big boss job though. That changed this morning.

Four people have written me over the last month or so suggesting I apply for the an executive director position. In this case it is with CARA - the Chicago Area Runners Association. This position would be ideal for me. It allows me to use my nonprofit skills. It also allows me to be active in the running community and really promote running. 

I will be honest, I think I am up to the task. I am not one to pat myself on the back, but in this case, I think I am a darned hard worker, and would be a terrific executive director. Now I wait to see if I get the interview. This is the nerce wracking part.

Charlie

Somewhere Over the Rainbow to 8 Miles

Today's long run was an 8 mile journey from Rogers Park to Edgewater and back. I haven't run 8 miles in over a year. Conditions for the run were ideal. Temperatures were in the 50's and sunny. I headed out with the IPod, listening to one of my running heroes - Dean Karnazes, reading from one of his books. Of course I had some good tunes playing, including a Hawaiian version of Somwhere Over the Rainbow.

I have to say that running in the Spring, espcially a day like today could really get me to enjoy spring. I looked at marvelous gardens full of blooming flowers. I saw people out enjoying the sunshine.

I felt great on this run. My goal was not speed, but finishing the 8 miles in good form. I did. I ran the 8 miles in 1:38:49. When I was done I felt I could have gone another couple miles. This is good and bodes well for the Soldier Field 10 Mile I will do on Saturday. 

A run like today reminds me why I love run. Being outside, running is a joy, and today I felt that joy.

Charlie

Easy, but Fast

Tonight I ran and easy, but fast 3 miles at the gym. I felt very good as I was sweating it out on the treadmill. Am I ready for my 8 mile run this weekend? I guess we will see. I ran 2 miles last night with the No Boundaries group.

I haven't shared as much as I would normally about No Boundaries. I am really enjoying coaching these beginning runners. They are a great group of people. They ask questions. They email me with comments. They are all intent on succeeding this program, and I am very proud of them.

Tomorrow is a work day. I am off on Sunday, so I will run my 8 miles that day. Wish me luck.

Charlie

Facing the Future

Today I had a routine checkup with the doctor. He just wanted to check my progress, and was pleased with everything - flu and another issue aside. So talked a bit about the future. I don't think I would letting out a secret that I really, really, really, really, really want to run the Boston Marathon. The doctor has said I should stick to flat races. As you know Boston is not flat.

The doctor smiled...never a good thing I think.....and suggested we wait until after the marathon to see how incline training would work for me. He commented on how with all of my problems almost any doctor would tell me not to run at all. He did not discourage me, but he was not 100% encouraging.

When I left the office, Mark asked my problems and my running would mean I would not be able to walk in the future. For the record, I was told at 16 that because of my foot issues and excessive weight I would not be able to walk at age 70. Is that true? I doubt it, but if it is true, I want to do all I can now, and live the best life I can now. If I worry about what may or may not happen at age 70, I would be a mess. 

Yes....I have to take care these days. I am not being stupid or foolish. I do, though want to figure out how to have an active life, which includes running. It took me too long to get to this point, I am not ready to give up anything.

So now I am facing my future. Boston may or may not happen(if it happens, don't think I won't ask all you nice folks for donations for the charity I will be helping). In the meantime, I just want to run.

Charlie

Lacing the Shoes and Running

I got back to running today. I ran a decent 5 miles. I thought about 6 miles, but was still feeling like I was covering from this flu. So I did an easy going 5 miles. It felt good to be running. Then again, I always like lacing up the shoes and running.

Nothing particular on my mind today, though I did enjoy watching the Travel Channel's program on Denali National Park. My thoughts went back to the wonderful trip my parents took me on many years ago to Alaska. While the people on this program hiked, we chartered a plane and flew around the summit of Mt. McKinley. In hindsight, I wish we had hiked. My folks were never the hiking type.

So this run gave me a chance to go down memory lane.....

Tomorrow I head to the doctor for a check up. Will let you know what he says.

Charlie

Marathon Map

So here is the course map for the 2009 Toronto Waterfront Marathon. I know....not a good copy. Best I could get. I have this on my computer so I can study it everyday.

Charlie

Stricken

As I sit in bed writing this, I can tell you I still feel like crap. I barely have a voice, which may or may not make some folks happy. :-) I am congested in the chest, so now and then I hack something which may or may not have been in Alien. I have a bit of a fever too.

So no running today, again. I am trying not to feel too down about it. I know I can get back on track. This is not the end of the world. Let me say it again....for me - this is not the end of the world. I will be back to training soon.

Charlie

A Wash

So this week's running is a wash. I feel like crap this morning. My throat is sore and raw, and I feel low. I will start fresh tomorrow....I hope, and just go from there. I don't think I will lose anything with the off week. 

I am mapping out the week for my runs/workouts. This week I kick cross training into high gear. 

Charlie

Toronto Breaking News

Hi, my name is Charlie. (Hi Charlie)

I am a running geek. (Applause)

Yes, it is true. I am a running geek. To that end, I have to tell you how excited I am to find out that Joan Benoit Samuelson will be at the expo for the Toronto Waterfront Marathon. 

For those who do not know who she is, Samuelson won the first Olympic Women's Marathon, in 1984 at the Los Angeles games. In the Olympic Trials, Joan was recovering from knee surgery. The pack in the Olympic Marathon knew this, and was counting on her not being at top form. 

In the marathon, Joan took the lead at mile 4, and never looked back. She entered the L.A. Colliseum and was triumphant as she crossed the finish line a minute ahead of the great Grete Weitz. I remember watching her on TV entering the stadium with her white ball cap on. At the time I did not know how historic this was. There can only be one inaugural winner, and Joan Benoit Samuelson was it. That race changed the face of racing, and for women in sports. She is a true legend, and I can't wait to meet her.

Charlie

Thoughts on a Hot Run

Yesterday was out last day on Marco Island in Florida. Running was difficult because it would get hot very quickly in the morning, so I only ran once - yesterday. 

On this run, I had a lot on my mind. Mostly I was thinking of family. My dad and sister live on Marco. Dad will be 92 this year, and it is clear he is in the twilight of his life. A couple nights ago we were to go out to dinner, but my stepmother checked his blood pressure, and it was very high. He complained of dizziness and a bit of numbness. This is a more common occurance these days. Occasionally he has what would be considered mini-strokes. This is going to be a pattern, and I can't all worked about it everytime I hear about it.

My relationship with my dad has not always been positive. Many of may not know I lost my older brother when he was 16. He was my parents only biological child. It devastated my folks, and they changed. It took my a long time to conlude that my dad really found it hard to show love after that. He and my brother were so close, so I think he was afraid to get that close to anyone. In my younger days I took this as he was a mean man a good deal of the time. Hindsight gives you a much clearer picture.

So during this run, I was trying to figure what do I do with the time I have left with him. I like to share my running with him. I think he finds it interesting that I run, and that I run races. His first comment after my first half marathon was, "Did you win?" Dad does not always understand the metaphoric victories in life. 

I told him yesterday I will be running the marathon in Toronto. He looked amused by it, but said nothing. Still I think he is proud of the fact I am out there running, and doing my best to be healthy. I wish he could join me. Of course that might make me hate running. Hehehe....I took up golf because he enjoyed it so much, and I found I loved golf, but I hated playing with dad. He always had to point out what was wrong with my game. I don't think I would want to hear his comments about my running. 

I think the hardest part of being an adult is watching your parents go. I lost my mom in 1997, so I have been down this road before. It is painful. My goal now is to make it less painful this time.

Charlie

A Breather

Normally I would not take a breather, but here I am in S.W. Florida, not running too much. We are here visiting my family, and the heat kicks in pretty early. We got here yesterday, and slept in this morning. I thought if we got up early, we would go out for a run. We slept in pretty late. The sun is blazing, and it is hot. We may try later this evening, or maybe tomorrow. I am not too stressed. Sometimes a breather is ok.

Charlie

Marathon Kids Final Medal Ceremony

I believe very strongly that we as runners have an obligation to give back the sport which has brought us so much joy. I have written on Marathon Kids before, but let me go over the organization again. Marathon Kids is designed to help K - 5th grade school children develop healthy habits. These habits come in the form of running 26.2 miles over the course of the school year and educating on proper nutirtion. The program specifically targets kids most prone to type 2 Diabetes.

I first became aware of Marathon Kids a few years ago, while reading an article about its founder Kay Morris. I thought this was a pretty cool sounding organization, and Kay seemed like an incredible woman. I went online and donated $10. Ten minutes later I received a thank from Kay. That in itself surprised me. Kay and I exchanged emails about the possibility of a Marathon Kids chapter in Chicago. She asked if I could help. I was happy to do what I could. 

Eventually Kay came to Chicago and met a few interested folks. I introduced her to the Chicago Area Runners Association(CARA) and to Fleet Feet Sports. I also told her about Hanson Stadium, one of a couple outdoor tracks in Chicago. These meetings bore fruit, and Kay was able to get sponsorships from Blue Cross and Blue Shield as well as CVS. Marathon Kids is free to kids through these sponsorships and donations.

In November Chicago Marathon Kids kicked off. Sadly I was not able to be there that day, but I was there today for the Final Mile Medal Celebration. These kids had run their miles during the year, 5,000 kids to be exact, through the Chicago Public Schools. Today they had one more lap to run, and then they would receive a medal and other goodies. 

I was asked to be the Start Line Captain. So what does that mean. I work with volunteers as we lead the children, teachers and parents onto the track, and then let them run their final lap. I will tell you I was honored to be asked to do this.

It was a glorious morning in Chicago. It was sunny and pleasant. I had been at the stadium a short time when Kay came up to me and gave me a huge hug. Our plans had worked, and now this was the reward. You should know Kay is a force of nature. She is a good old Texas gal, who is tenacious and determined. This is her vision, and I am so glad she has allowed me to share in a part of it. 

My volunteers were a group of teens from Team M3, another outstanding organization. 

www.m3.mgrf.org

Team M3 is a mentoring program, training young people to run the Chicago Marathon or Rock n Roll Chicago Half Marathon. The program provides mentorship, builds self esteem, improves health, leadership development and provides a safe alternative to gangs in the city. This group of kids impressed the heck out of me. One young man - Edison is working towards a sub-4 hour marathon. By golly, I bet he can do it. 

Helping me was Tom Hansen, a Marathon Kids Ambassador from Houston. What an incredible guy. He was very kind to show me the ropes. I was a bit nervous, so having him around was terrific.

I did get a bit emotional as Kay very kindly acknowledged my support and work to help make Chicago Marathon Kids a reality. According to her this would not have happened if I hadn't sent that donation. I don't know about that, but I am glad I did. Best $10 I ever spent.

The kids came out of the stands a few groups at a time. My team and I moved each group to the track, and began to walk with them, then jog, and then we would let our human chain of volunteers go, and off ran the kids. They all looked so happy to running. Parents and teachers were beaming with pride. 

The number of kids today was not in the thousands. I believe the Swine Flu issue kept the majority away. What a shame. This was an enthusiastic and energetic group. I would say we had a few hundred kids.

As the kids would round the bend towards the finish the Team M3 kids and I cheered and high fived many of the kids. It was so cool. 

After the event, as I was helping with tear down. I saw families taking pictures of their kids and their medals. Lots of pride going on in that stadium.

As I said at the start of this, I believe we as runners need to give back. Here is my plea. If Marathon Kids is in your community, volunteer. Get to know Kay, and she will make you part of an incredible family. If Marathon Kids is not in your area, see what happens if you send a $10 donation. :-) Or, see what groups do similar work that you could get involved with. I promise that you will love it. The mission at Fleet Feet, and I will paraphrase, is to help people stay fit, and achieve their goals. I do my best to live that mission every day, and this is one more way I strive to achieve this.

To my friends, I have made a pledge to bring on 20 volunteers next fall. Lace up your shoes....we got work to do.

For more information on Marathon Kids go to  - www.marathonkids.org.

Charlie

A Fun 1.5

Last night was a No Boundaries night. The group got to run 1.5 miles. This group of new runners is having fun. I watched friendships being made, runners improving and a good time by all. As the group assembled at the store, a couple of folks made a point of telling me that the email I sent them really made their week. WOW! How cool is that?

Each week I send an email reviewing the week, giving a heads up on the week coming up, and some basic tips. I am so glad that some folks really get something out of it. 

After the run New Balance was there for food, and give aways. The groups really appreciated it.

As I mingled with the group, I listened as they talked about joining the fun runs. The only thing that bothers me is they feel the fun runs are for the more advanced runners. They aren't, but I see where they get that. Our store regular group of fun runners are a dedicated, serious group of folks. I hope that doesn't keep them from joining.

What makes me happiest is the fact these folks are enjoying running, and it looks like many may stick with it.

Charlie

A Solid 6

I really felt I got back on track today with a 6 mile run. I was feeling down about the short run the other day, so I put the nose to the grindstone and ran 6 miles. I felt good for the most part.

I headed up to Evanston and did the along the lake route. Overcast and in the 40s - perfect running weather, but to be fair I would like some sun with my run. I was pleased with my time, though I realized I went out a bit too fast, I slowed it down a bit heading back.

The only thing which bothered me was my hips were feeling it about 2 miles to go. Maybe more stretching is needed? Not sure. Something to be mindful of.

Also .... today I registered for the Soldier Field 10 Mile Race. My last 10 mile run was the same race last year. While I may not PR, I sure as heck hope I do well.

Charlie

Re-Evaluate and Good News

Last night I was supposed to run 6 miles. I found I could run 3.25. The problem? Working all day. I was on my feet all day, so my legs were tired and sore, with no energy to do 6 miles. So I need to look at my schedule, and run on days when I am not opening at the store.

Closing means I work at 1 p.m., so I have the morning to run. This is fine, as I like running in the morning better anyway. Still I am disappointed with last night. I have not done 6 miles in a couple weeks. I don't think there is need to panic, but I am aware that I need to be consistant with the miles and running.

The good news is Mark has joined my gym. So now he can do his training in earnest. He was so happy to be able to afford a gym membership. He worked on his 1.5 miles last night on the treadmill, and he really had a good time at the gym.

So there was good with the not so good yesterday.

Charlie

So How Will I Run 26.2?

The above question was in my head on this very warm day in Chicago. Temperatures were in the low 70's as I started my run. The goal was to run 6 miles today. I will cut to the end....I didn't quite do that.

So what happened today? The warm weather. To the non runner, this would seem an ideal day to run. To the more seasoned runner, higher temps means a more difficult run. Maybe we are skipping spring and going right to summer. This means I will really have to work on staying hydrated.

I was doomed because I did not take any water with me. The fountains in the parks are not on. Neither are the bathrooms....and at mile 2, I really needed to go. I weaved a new route, and found a Starbucks. I was so glad I did.

After the bathroom break, I thought I would begin to head home. I was feeling a bit dehydrated. I tried more walk breaks, and running slower, but I could not get the fact I was not running well.

Now the warmer weather is here. I have to acclimate to it. This is always an awlward time. The thought in my head was, how will I run the marathon, if I can't run 6 miles today. The good news is between now and marathon day, I will have many warm weather runs, and will get used to it...I hope.

Charlie

Fascinating

Tonight was another No Boundaries run. No Boundaries is the beginning 5K program I am coaching. There are 20 people in the group, and they range from all out runners to walkers. I enjoy the coaching, and am glad to pass on my love of running to another group of people.

We ran 1 mile again tonight. One woman was just glad to be able to keep up and "see the group." Another woman is not getting it....she came to the group in sandals tonight. I had told her last week she needs a good pair of shoes, but evidently she did not get that. When I left the store she was being fitted for shoes.

So how did they do tonight? They did great. I was very proud of them. We went over stretching, some nutrition and form while running. Eveyone looked good out there. It was a good mile.

Charlie

Sick Day

Yesterday I battled a cold, and felt miserable, so no running for me. I thought about it as I felt better during the day, then I thought again. Why chance it?

Tonight is a No Boundaries training run. Looking forward to seeing how the group is doing/feeling. We now have 20 people in the group. WOW! Exciting to see 20 people take to the streets and run.

More later.

Charlie

Not the Run I Wanted

After a long day at work, running is not ideal for me. I have found this to be true the last few post-work runs. Still I made a gallant effort to run yesterday. I only managed 3.5 miles in 42:42. I wanted to run 5 miles, but I felt I had nothing in the tank. The whole time I ran, I just felt like I had nothing in me.

I was psyched earlier in the day after watching the Boston Marathon. Kudos to Kara Goucher and Ryan Hall on their 3rd place finishes.

Still my legs were heavy and I was just plain tired at the end of the day.

Better luck next run.

Charlie

I'm Running...Why Stop Me?

So I am on the last leg of my 5 mile run yesterday. I am running down the street. Anyone, and I mean anyone who sees me coming towards them would know I am running. Evidently Mormon Missionaries would not know. I see two missionaries ahead, and really think nothing of it. As I am about to go by, one of them waves at me, pulls out literature and asks if they can talk to me. I yell, "I'M RUNNING!" and I keep going. Unless you are in pain, sick, in trouble of dying, stopping me on my run is not a good thing.

The run was not too spectacular. I was very stiff yesterday, and not feeling all that hot running. Still I managed to get 5 miles, so I completed all my runs this week. Very satisfying.

Charlie

The Journey Begins - No Boundaries

Tonight was the first group run for the No Boundaries group. 17 people ran/walked 1 mile tonight. For some people it was their first time running. As the people spoke before we ran, here are some reasons they are running: a healthier lifestyle, to get back in shape, to finish a 5K, to out run zombies.

Yes...you read that right. One guy told us he saw the movie "28 Days Later" and saw how fast zombies run, so he wants to be able to outrun them. I'm still shaking my head over that one.

The group ran for 1 minute and walked for 2 minutes. In the next 10 weeks, they will expand on that and some will run the entire distance. I am very proud of these folks for taking the first step towards a running life. I know some will keep up with it, and some won't. I could see though there are some very dedicated people.

Mark ran with the group, and he was very good. I was so proud of him. 1 week down....9 to go.

Charlie

An Easy 5 Miler

Today was a nice and easy 5 miler up to Evanston. Temps were in the 40's. It was a bit damp, but I felt good as I headed out. My goal was to run "easy". By that, I mean I was not going to push or force myself to go fast or slow. As a result my time was 59:22. Really not too bad.

Not many runners out today. Those who were, I tried to nod and say hello, but no friendly folks. Where were they?

Nothing major on my mind. I wanted to block the world out, and just be within myself. My mantra in my head was, "Stay within yourself." I think that calmed me, and really let my body relax and run. It felt really good.

While I ran, Mark was doing a 45 min - 1 hour walk. He was in essence following me, though he turned around at the 1/2 hour point, and got back to the house before I did. He says he felt really good. He too was zoning the world out.

Friday will be my last run for the week. Not sure what to think....it may be 70 that day! WOW!

Charlie

A New Runner

Today Mark started his running program. He has joined No Boundaries, which I will start coaching this week. Today the plan called for him to run 1 minute and walk 2 minutes - 4 times. He laced up his Mizuno Nirvana's and I headed out with him.

When it was time to run, he bolted ahead of me. He did as I thought he would - conk out. I told him he needs to start with a jog. This is not a sprint or a race, it is endurance. So the next run, he jogged with me - much better.

Mark is overweight and a smoker. His lungs let him know they weren't happy. He was happy though. He completed 1 mile, and smiled.

Charlie

Marathon Plan From Here Until Marathon Day

So I have reviewed the plan, and told Scott I am good with it. So now I will share it all with you. Some things to note, and this is what I have to remind myself as well, I have physcial issues, primarily the arthritis, so I have to take some extra care as I do this plan. I can't go like I thought I would in 2007, where I go all out in each run. This plan is designed for me and the limitations I have. I welcome comments from the running community.


13-Apr 5 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 5 Miles - 11:00 min/mile 5 Miles - 11:45 min/mile

20-Apr 5 Miles - 11:30 min/mile 5 Miles - 11:00 min/mile 5 Miles - 11:30 min/mile

27-Apr 6 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 6 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 6 Miles – 12:30 min/mile

4-May 6 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 6 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 7 Miles – 12:30 min/mile

11-May 6 Miles - 11:30 min/mile 6 Miles - 11:00 min/mile 8 Miles – 12:30 min/mile

18-May 6 Miles – 13:00 min/mile 4 Miles Tempo Soldier Field 10 Miler

25-May 6 Miles – 13:00 min/mile 5 Miles Tempo 7 Miles - 12:30 min/mile

1-Jun 6 Miles – 13:00 min/mile 6 Miles Tempo 8 Miles - 12:30 min/mile
Xtrain/Strength/Pilates

7-Jun 6 Miles – 13:00 min/mile 5K Time Trial 9 Miles - 12:30 min/mile
Xtrain/Strength/Pilates

14-Jun 6 Miles – 13:00 min/mile 4 Mile Tempo 10 Miles - 12:30 min/mile
Xtrain/Strength/Pilates

21-Jun 6 Miles – 13:00 min/mile 5 Mile Tempo Proud to Run 10K
Xtrain/Strength/Pilates

28-Jun 6 Miles – 13:00 min/mile 6 Mile Tempo 10 Miles - 12:30 min/mile
Xtrain/Strength/Pilates

6-Jul 6 Miles – 13:00 min/mile 5K Time Trial 6 Miles - 12:30 min/mile
Xtrain/Strength/Pilates

13-Jul 6 Miles – 13:00 min/mile 4 Mile Tempo 11 Miles - 12:30 min/mile
Xtrain/Strength/Pilates

20-Jul 6 Miles – 13:00 min/mile 5 Mile Tempo 12 Miles - 12:30 min/mile
Xtrain/Strength/Pilates

27-Jul 6 Miles – 13:00 min/mile 6 Mile Tempo Rock N Roll Half Marathon
Xtrain/Strength/Pilates

3-Aug 6 Miles – 13:00 min/mile 5 Miles 6 Miles - 12:30 min/mile
Xtrain/Strength/Pilates

10-Aug 6 Miles – 13:00 min/mile 4 Mile Tempo 16 Miles - 12:30 min/mile
Xtrain/Strength/Pilates

17-Aug 6 Miles – 13:00 min/mile 5 Mile Tempo 6 Miles - 12:30 min/mile
Xtrain/Strength/Pilates

24-Aug 6 Miles – 13:00 min/mile 6 Mile Tempo 18 Miles - 12:30 min/mile
Xtrain/Strength/Pilates

31-Aug 6 Miles – 13:00 min/mile 7 Mile Tempo 6 Miles - 12:30 min/mile
Xtrain/Strength/Pilates

7-Sep 6 Miles – 13:00 min/mile 5 Miles 20 Miles - 12:30 min/mile
Xtrain/Strength/Pilates

14-Sep 6 Miles – 13:00 min/mile 10 x 800 13 Miles - 12:30 min/mile

21-Sep 6 Miles – 13:00 min/mile 4 Miles 2 Miles

Sept. 27 Toronto Waterfront Marathon

You will notice the pace is a slow one compared to what I have run. Scott says a 13:00 min/mile pace will mean a 5:40 marathon time, well within my goals. I am not too thrilled at slower running, but this is what I need to do body wise for me. So I may grumble a bit, but in the long run this plan will serve me well. The XT portion will be a 4th workout day for me. I already do this for the most part, but it will become a crucial portion of the training plan.

Thoughts?

Charlie

April 12 Observance

April 12 is always an interesting day for me. Definitely a time for reflection. I hope you will indulge me as I stray posting from my usual running items. I may have written on this before, but want to tell the story again.

21 years ago today I was at rock bottom. I was not successful in college. I was aimless. I was lonely. I was feeling like someone on the bottom rung of the ladder, but can't even see the top of it in order to start climbing. I had a mad crush on a guy who did not return the affection. I felt like a loser in life.

April 12, 1988, I had a plan to end my nightmare. I was going to kill myself. Spoiler alert - I did not succeed. :-)

A friend of mine had a birthday gathering, and I went to that. I tried to have fun, but I was so depressed, I felt all I was doing was faking it. After the party I went to the grocery and bought a gallon of wine and several hundred Sominex. I had no idea if it would kill me, but the amount I bought should have done the trick. I went home and I drank the wine and began taking the pills.

I was sitting in the little yard I had crying, drinking and taking pills. I was pretty pathetic. I kept asking God why did life have to be so crappy. I was at the bottom of life. I begged God to help me end this.

A few minutes later....I dropped the last of the pills on the ground. My dog came out and was sniffing at them. It was like a light went off - "What the HELL was I doing????" First I wanted to make sure the dog didn't eat any. Then I called my counselor and some friends. The friends came over and rushed me to the emergency room. Yes, the fact of the matter was I wanted to live. Death would not end my problems or suffering. I had to take control of things and make my life better. Of course that stunning revelation came to me a couple days later.

I won't go into the details of what happened in the hospital, but needless to say, I got the medication out of me, and was sent home. I took the next few days to think about life. I was not only take control of my life, but I was going to live it the best I could.

In the years since I have had joys and sorrows. I have had plenty of ups and downs, but I have never, ever been in such a dark place that I felt I had no options. I honestly believe that night God heard my cries, and helped me through that difficult time. Sorry to get all religious, but I do believe that.

Ironically today April 12 is Easter. I mark today as a day of not only Christ's ressurection, but mine as well. I went from that sad, sad guy, with no options, to living a life where I have journeyed to Africa and seen the wild beasts, helped coffee farmers in Costa Rica, seen the treasures of the Louvre, crossed the finish line of a race on the 50 yard line in Notre Dame Stadium, completed one marathon, and working on another, celebrated the joys of life, and have learned the lessons of my mistakes(I hope).

I have no clue what the rest of my life has in store, but I welcome the challenges, and am so happy the sad guy I was 21 years ago did not succeed in ending his life.

Charlie

Catching Up

A few things going on. Sorry I have not written in a couple days. Life...go figure.

1) Friday - Ran the course for the Ravenswood Run 5K to check the state of the course. A few potholes here and there, otherwise I thought it was good. I ran at a decent 11:30/mile pace. As it turns out I won't be running the race. Why.....

2) I have been asked to be volunteer coordinator for the race. Pretty exciting stuff. So I will be getting volunteers to designated places on the course and in the packet area. Very cool.

3) This week start No Boundaries. For the regular readers, you know I coached this last year. It is a beginning running program. So happy to be doing it again this year. Out first group run is this coming Thursday.

So there is a bit of a catch up. I will be going over my marathon plan in the next posting.

Charlie

Marathon Training Plan Part 2 - Preview

Scott sent me the rest of the marathon training program for me to review today. I'm not ready to post it yet, but it looks like I will be introducing tempo runs and long runs into the mix, as you might suspect. Towards the end I will be doing some Yasso 800s. Scott has developed a plan he believes will allow me to run under 6 hours in Toronto.

I am still looking through the plan, and post it here shortly.

Charlie

Wonderful Run - Facing What May Be

Today was a wonderful Spring day. It was sunny, cool and I ran 6 miles to Evanston. For those who are not familiar, Evanston is just north of Chicago, home of Northwestern University. It is a lovely town with stately homes along the lake. I ran from my home along the lake, and went through the nice neighborhoods and parks. It is one of my favorite runs to do here.

I felt good. I ran harder than I had on Monday, but after the sheer boredom of that run, I decided to go a little harder today. I ran in 1:11, which is 11:50/mile. I'm a bit sore now, but I felt good on the run, and overall I am good now.

I spoke with a woman who returned a pair of running shows. She said she has arthritis in her hips, and she has to have replacement surgery. Her issues are not mine, but it makes me very aware that I may not run to old age. While that saddens me, I am glad to have this time to train and to run. Is that a bad thing?

In the end I don't think so. To stop running would be the wrong thing for me to do. This time I have to run is precious to me. The last year was hard on my because I could not run. I am sure as my body wears out, I will need to find another fitness endeavor, but for now I am running to the end.

Charlie

The Slow Six Miles - Time to Think About Mark

Today the goal was to run 6 miles, but at a slower pace. I wanted to go about a minute slower that I normally do. Iran 1:12:33., which is a 12:05/mile pace. So not a minute slower, but it sure as heck felt like it. I did not enjoy the run. I don't like trying to go slower on purpose. If I run slow, that is one thing, but this drove me nuts.

Still I was very happy to chalk this run as finished, especially after my disappointing run last Friday.

So what I thinking about on the run? Today I was thinking about Mark. I don't talk about Mark much, but he has been such an incredible support for me. On those days I don't feel like a run, he tells me I have to go do it. When I am feeling bad about my run, as I did last week, he reminds me there are other runs, and gives me a hug. He has come out and volunteered with me at races. He has come to cheer me on. At the end of the Proud to Run 10K last year, he was standing at the finish line smiling, and holding a bagel for me. He is a sweetie, and I love him.

Now he is about to start running. He wants to get into it, because he knows it is part of a healthier lifestyle, and he wants to come with me on a run or two. I'm touched he wants to join me on a run or two. We'll see if I want him to run with me....as you know I like my alone time. No doubt we will run occasionally together though.

Today...slow...but good!

Charlie

Upon Further Review

As my friends on Facebook will tell you, I was not happy with yesterday's run. The goal was 6 miles. I ran 2.15. I knew there was trouble at the start of the run. My thighs were hurting, and my left IT Band was annoyed. I gave it an easy run though, and felt I needed to stop. I took about 10 minutes after the run to really stretch out, and I was glad I did. I think that helped.

Yesterday I was working hard. We got a huge shipment of shoes, and I was constantly lifting, climbing, etc.. I think my body told me it just could not do 6 miles.

I get very hard on myself when I don't meet my running goals. I have to learn, or re-learn that my body is a limited entity, and it can only do so much - hence the re-evaluation of how I feel. Had I written this last night, you would be reading a very different entry.

So I start the next round of 6 mile runs on Monday....a couple days rest will help.

Charlie

Making the Run More Manageable

There comes a time as you increase distance that you have to do things to make the miles seem more manageable. For me it is dividing up the miles. I wanted the run to seem manageable, so in my head I broke it into 2 mile increments. This worked well for me. My overall time was 1:10:57, and my pace was 11:49/mile.

I have to say I felt great on this run, and the breaking it up made the run seem easier for me. This may be the way for me to deal with the longer runs as they get longer and longer.

Thoughts as I was running? Where am I going? No, I don't mean where am I going on the run, I mean in life. This is an age old question for me, one that is not always answered. Mark and I think about moving out of Chicago, but where? What would we do. So a lot of that was in my head today.

Today was a good day!

Charlie

The Next Step

Today was my first 6 mile run in a long, long time. The last time I ran 6 miles was the 2008 Soldier Field 10 Mile. It was after that race that the wheels began to fall off. After yesterday's snow and ice I decided to head to the gym.

I felt good body wise, though I could tell I was not where I would normally be. I have to give myself a break though. I have not gone to 6 miles in about a year, so my body is not used to it. It will be.

I am running 6 miles three days a week for the next few weeks. The pace, as always with a new week of miles starts slow. My pace was 11:58/mile. So the goal is to lessen in as the time goes on.

A good run today...better runs ahead.

Charlie

Frozen, but the "Thank Yous" Warm Me

Welcome to Chicago on March 29, 2009. Let me restate that - MARCH! Not December as it felt out there this morning. We had rain/snow/slush for today's Shamrock Shuffle. No....I did not run it. If I had registered, I would have stayed in bed.

Today Mark and I volunteered. For the record, Mark is an incredibly good sport. He said he would come out and volunteer with me. Neither he nor I expected a winter storm. Our job was to get hte Gatorade ready at the first aid station for the 8K race. About 35,000 were registered. Conditions were raw and brutal.

We had to be there at 7:30 this morning, and we checked in promptly. We got two tables set up, and I lost the feeling in my hands - with two pairs of gloves on. They gave us a break before the race started, and we waited inside a condo building with other volunteers.

Mark was giving me that daggers glare. I reminded him that no one made him come along. He is a good sport though, and wanted to be there with me. For the record....I greatly appreciate his being there today.

He could take no more once the race got going he ducked into a building. I started passing out Gatorade and the waves of runners came by. The elite atheletes did not take any. These folks were in singlets and all things short...and they looked CCCCOOOOLLLLLDDDDD! 2004 Women's Olympic Marathon Bronze Medalist Deena Kastor was entered, and I cheered her on as she whizzed by.

I'l be honest....I did not enjoy this experience until I started getting thank yous from the runners. This made me feel terrific, because if I were out there running, I would be so glad there were volunteers there to give me Gatorade. I made sure no matter how cold I was, I gave a smile to all runners, and gave them encouraging words!

All in all I am glad I did it....next year? It better be 50 degrees out there!

Charlie

Two Months Down....6 Months to Go

After two months of training here are some stats:

Miles run - 97.3
Avg. Speed - 5 m.p.h.
Avg. Pace - 11:58/mile
Calories Burned - 15,768

The most important stat is that I am feeling great at this point. Now that I have miles under my belt, and have been riding the bike, I am about to work on core strength, which I think will be a key for me.

Hard to believe it is just 6 short months until I start the marathon in Toronto!

Charlie

Biking Hard...and Listening to a Pig

Tonight I was at the gym, and I biked hard. I did a 10 mile ride in 29:20! Phew! That is some work for me folks. I was sweating like there was no tomorrow. Still I felt good. At one point though I felt I was pushing a bit too hard with my knees, so I backed off a bit. At the end of the ride it was all good.

After my workout I went to shower. As I was getting dressed I listened to a conversation a couple of lockers away from me. Two stunningly handsome men were talking. You should know, if you don't already, I go to the gayest gym in Chicago. It is in the heart of Boystown!

So one guy asked the other what he had for lunch. The second guy told him - salad, with grilled chicken. The first guy began to chastise him for having chicken. The salad offender said he needed the protein. The other guy told him that protein won't help him look good. "This is how you get fat," he said. Let me assure you the body fat on these two was maybe 10%-15%. No one was in danger of getting fat. The guy who was irked told him this meant they had to work out longer tonight. The other guy looked dejected and followed him as they headed out into the gym.

Now I don't know the nature of the relationship, and I don't care. The guy who got mad over chicken was a pig in my book. C'mon....grilled chicken on a salad is NOT the end of the world. Grrrr!

Charlie

"Oh I'll Just Go With You"

The title of this entry was told to me by one of my roommates. He is having some health problems, and thinks running will solve it. Three things: 1) Running, while it helps with health, does not "solve" the issues he has. 2) He is a not someone I really care for. 3) It irked me that he thought he could just go on a run with me.

I nicely tried to tell him that I really prefer to run alone. It is my time to be on my own, get away from the world, meditate, and just be by myself. He said, "Oh I totally understand. I ran track in school." Huh??? No, I don't think he gets it.

Don't get me wrong, I don't mind someone who wants to go run with me from time to time, but he was talking about all my runs. Of course there is still the point that I just don't care for the guy. I can't imagine running 4-5 miles with someone I don't like. Torture!

I know though, his idea of running is the latest in a string of things he is thinking to "cure" himself. He is HIV+, and he thinks there are ways to rid his body of the disease. His last idea was to go to Mexico, and have someone smear cow semen on him, which would "purify" his body. When he asked me what I thought, I told him if that were true, cows all over the world would have millions of people looking at them funny. So now he believes that by running, the lymph nodes will open up, and drain the disease away.

I feel so sorry for him in his condition, and I am happy to help him research things to help manage his HIV, but miracle cures are not something I am on board with, especially if they involve Mexico and cows.

Maybe I will let him go for A run with me, just to see if he would like it, but I would rather encourage him to run on his own, or find a group. I' m more of a loner.

Charlie

5.25 Miles in a Headwind

Today's 5 miler turned into a 5.25 miler. I was approximating the route, and when I mapped it when I got home, I saw I ran 5.25 miles. No worries. It was a cool day. Temps in the 40's, as I headed south from home. I ran along Sheridan Rd, past Loyola University and on to the Lakefront Path. I ran the beginnings of the path, and then headed home. My time was 1:01:31, which is a 11:43/mile pace. As you can see I am quickening the pace. I won't make it to an 11:00/mile pace, but I am doing pretty wel.

I felt sluggish for the first mile. After that I just felt clunky. I know not a great technical term, but I remember saying to myself, "Hmmmm....clunky." I passed other fellow runners. No one was in a cheery mood today. No one said hello. No worries....it isn't required. I still nodded, and occasionally greeted them.

I am pleased with the run. I was able to keep a decent pace, and I felt good afterwards.

Charlie

5 Miles....Could Have Been 10!!!

Today I felt terrific on my 5 mile run. Rain meant running indoors, and I had an amazing run. I felt like I could have gone 5 more miles. That is good my friends.

The time was 58:18, which is an 11:39/mile pace. Scott's plan wants me to get to an occasional 11:00/mile pace. I am not sure if that is possible with the run/walk I do. Right now I run 8 minutes, and walk 1 minute. Sometimes it is 7/1. So if I can approach 11:00, that is fine, but I am pretty happy with the way I am running at the moment.

So today was a great success. Looking forward to tomorrow's bike ride.

Charlie

End of Week 7

Here we are at the end of week 7 of the training. Today was a 5 mile run, and I am happy to say it went very well. I did run at the gym for convenience purposes. Overall a great run. My goal was to finish in under and hour and I did - 58:56. Not too shabby.

I worked up a good sweat as I went along. I listened to Phedippidations, as Steve Runner talked about the benefits of morning runs. I understood what he said, but I think it is not always easy to run in the mornings. Sometimes work dictates I run at other times of the day. Still, as always, it is good to listen to Mr. Runner. Congrats to him on his entry into the Boston Marathon. I know he is setting the bar low for this one, but in my book anytime you accomplish a marathon, you have done yourself proud.

So overall I think the week went great. I ran 15 miles and biked 22 miles. I feel darned good. Physically this is the best I have felt in many, many months. While I am no where near where I want to be physically, I think I am on my way.

Charlie

Lakefront Path - 5 Miles

This morning the 5 mile route was along the wonderful Lake Michigan shoreline. I love running on the path. It winds through Lincoln Park, and the water looked cold, but calm.

As for the running, I was clunky, but I was fine with that. This was my first run on the path for 2009, and I was just happy to be out there. I took more walking breaks than I like, but I needed them. Still I finished the 5 miles in 1:01:29. Not too bad. I don't want to get too slower, and I can always go a bit quicker. Right now I am not worried about speed. I just want to get the miles in, and I am pleased with everything.

There were few people out running, so I really felt like I have the path to myself....except for the occasional biker. The temps were in the 30s. I was layered, and felt comfortable for the most part. When I finished the run, I felt I could have gone another 1/2 mile. That is a successful run to me.

Charlie

10 Miles on a Bike - HARD RIDING

Yesterday I was not in a good mood. I was pissed. I found when I am pissed, I ride a bike like I have the Devil chasing me. I zoomed on the bike at the gym - 30:20. My last 10 mile ride was 31:48, so I cut that time down. At one point I was going a sub 3 minute mile(where is that speed in my runs?). So needless to say it was a great cross train for me.

I also weighed myself - 210lbs! I have shrunk a bit, and I am feeling good.

Today is a 5 mile run....so you get a second post from me today - woo hoo!

Charlie

The Evanston Loop - 5 Miles

Today I ran 5 miles of my loop up to Evanston. It was wonderful out, and I really enjoyed running along Lake Michigan. My pace was 12:06/mile. Not outstanding, but I was happy. Everyone on the path today had a look of happiness at being outside. I was one of them. I have missed these runs, and I look forward to more of them.

I am realizing though I am not a strong runner at the moment. My core is not strong as it should be, and I will devote a good portion of the next month to getting into a good routine where that is concerned.

So I was very happy to be out there running today. Another 5 mile run is logged.

Charlie

Little Things to Stay Motivated

When I turn on my computer and the initial screen comes on, a map of the marathon course is facing me. When I have some free moments, I look through my book on Toronto. When I think about what I have to do I read and re-read my training plan. These are some little things I do to stay motivated. I want to be sure I have this race in my sights. I want to be focused for it.

It would easy to feel a bit down that I did not do the 15 miles I was supposed to do this week, but the bottom line is I have a lot of miles between now and race day, and I will be fine. The marathon is not a success of failure based on my not running 3 miles this week. I was a bit hard on myself last night. Today though is a new day and I am fine.

One other thing I have to stay motivated are the comments people leave me here, on Facebook, or notes sent to me cheering me on. It means a lot that people would take that kind of time for me.

So these are some things to keep me going.

Charlie

Sometimes We Don't Make It

I was not smart today. I admit it. I was going to ride the bike, but instead I attempted to run. Time is a premium tomorrow, so I was going to squeeze in my 5 mile run, but this is after yesterday's run. Note to self....do not run consecutive days. I had no energy, and I was beginning to ache. I backed off after 2 miles.

Sometimes we don't make our weekly goals. This is when we have to suck it up, and just move on to the next week. Can't beat ourselves up over it. I feel silly that I did this. I most likely could have done it after work tomorrow, but it would have meant a brutal day for me. So I will focus on three good 5 mile runs next week.

For now I am glad the week is over and I am resting.

Charlie

How We Move Through Space

When we run we are moving through space in interesting ways. I thought about how I move through space as I run. Most runners you see on TV have some amazing gazelle like ability and grace. That would not be me. I'll be honest, I have no idea what I look like as I run, but I know the term gazelle does not come into play. I feel I plod.

On a daily basis I watch people ru, and I make no judgements, because I know how I run. Well....there is one runner I have judged, because he looks so darned funny running - Former Gov. Blagojevich. He has the oddest gait I have seen. He looks like he could be a penguin, but there seems to be something stuck in him(where I won't say). Odd.

So that was my odd thoughts as I ran 5 miles today in 59:33!

Charlie

Catching Up With a Run

It's been a few days sorry folks.....

A bout with bad Chinese food kept me from running the other day. It would not have been pretty.

Yesterday I ran 5 miles. I felt good that I finished it, though far from my shiniest moment. I ran it in 1:03:41. Respectable for not having run 5 miles with any regularity, but I was only ok with with it. Still a 5 mile run is a 5 mile run.

On this run I thought about what it takes to win a race. I have never won a race. I know I won't, but I was thinking about the people who go all out to win. Specifically I thought about cheats.

I have ranted before on cheaters. I am a person who really looks dimly on performance enhancing drugs. I imagine there are pressures by elite athletes to win, but what about those who will never win? What about the folks who cheat to better their times? Don't they understand it really isn't them who is bettering their times? It's the drugs. I cranked up U2 to get to a more positive place in my head.

Race wise.... I have registered for the Rock n' Roll Chicago Half Marathon in August. I really didn't want to do it, but it will fall at a good time in the training, and I will need a big race under my belt as I head to the marathon. Still.....racing in August. Ugh!

Tomorrow will be another 5 mile run....hoping for some improvement.

Charlie

4 Miles - Outdoors and Happy!

Just a word of advice to all who already know...there is a big difference between running outdoors and running on the treadmill. I know you all know that, but it was a bit of an adjustment for me this evening as I headed on my run.

Tonight's route was 4 miles of the fun run route my store has. It starts at my store, and makes its way to the river. I really enjoy running along the Chicago River, and have missed it.

The start of the run was a bit rough, only because it was an outdoor run, and it took me a good two miles to get into a groove. Once I did, I felt pretty good. Music choices tonight were The Counting Crows, Justin Timberlake and U2. Now THERE is a combo of music.

I have truly missed the great outdoors. If the the weather can cooperate, I will be outside for the norm.

Tonight was my last 4 mile run. Next week, I kick it up to 5 mile runs, three days a week.

Charlie

The Fast Four

Today was what I hope will be one of my last regular treadmill runs for a while. I ran a very speedy 4 miles today - 46:10. My heart rate average was 143 bpm. I felt great. It felt like it took little effort to do the run.

I had nothing pressing on my mind. I was thinking that I was asked again to coach the No Boundaries group for my store. No Boundaries is a beginning 5K program sponsored by Fleet Feet and New Balance. I am so psyched that I get to coach this again. Last year I got coached 14 women, 7 of which ran their first 5K. I love coaching, and I have some ideas in my head how to improve on last year.

So a great run, and great news today!

Charlie

Speedy Work

Last night I did a pretty quick 10 miles on the bike - 31:48. Well that's speedy for me. :-)

I was riding along with U2, or at least listening to the new album. While I was doing that, I found it odd that people would get on the bikes for short time. Do you really get a workout if you are in the bike for a couple minutes? And what's up with the people who are reading while on the bike? That just looks wrong to me.

I thought it was a good cross train though. Today the goal is a 4 mile run.

Charlie

Understanding My Limitations

As I have detailed here, I have some strikes against me in my quest to run. My clubbed feet and corrective surgery has left me with limited range of motion. This, in turn, has led to arthritis. I can still run, but I have to really understand that I am limited in what I can do.

I have to tell you that hurts. I am not one who likes to be told he can't do something. In fact it gets me pretty angry. So instead of being angry, I have to figure how I can to what I do.

My marathon training is going well so far. I need to do more to be stronger. That will be my facus this month. More than that, I really need to understand what my limitations are. I also have to accept those limitations. Yesterday was another reminder that I am not the runner I would like to be. So now I have to focus on the runner I am.

Charlie

The Adventures if a Non Trail Runner

Yesterday was one of my store's Historic Fun Runs. This run is a running tour. A tour guide takes a group of people out on a run, and makes stops along the route to discuss the historical significance of the area. Our run yesterday was a tour of the area where the old Riverview Amusement Park had been.

http://chicago.urban-history.org/sites/parks/rivervie.htm

This was a 5 mile run. When we started out, it was snowing lightly. The temperatures were in the 20's. The run turned into "blizzard" looking conditions. As we went on, it snowed harder and the wind really whipped. In addition, we ran along trails by the river and in parks and woods.

I know fully understand why I am not a trail runner, or a snow runner. While I think all that running is beautiful and fun, it kills my ankles. Because of my very limited range of motion, I can't handle the uneven surfaces. I am in a lot of pain today.

My job was to be sweeper - I was there to be with the back of the pack. I was able to do my job, but I was in pain. I was very glad the last two people wanted to walk the last little bit. Still I completed the 5 miles. Time is not an issue on these runs.

My physical limitations make me sad I can't do things like trail running. The silver lining is I should be glad I can run. Still I feel I am missing out on something. Trail running seems like it would be a terrific thing to do.

Charlie

One Month Down

The first month of training for the marathon is history. Here are some basic stats:

12 runs
Miles run - 42.1 miles
Min/Mile pace - 12:00/mile
Avg. HR - 149.2 bpm

I am happy with how I am doing. I am feeling good, and can tell I am making progress. I have gone from 216 lbs to 212.5 lbs.. I am not too concerned about weight at this point. I just want to feel the running is going well, and it is.

I wish the weather would cooperate so I could run outside more, but I am appreciative of the running - period. True, as I get into longer miles, the treadmill would kill me...or I would kill it.

Now I look to see what races I might want to do leading up to the marathon in September. I know there are 5ks in the future. I do want to run the Soldier Field 10 Mile in May. I need to plan a half marathon. Sadly, I think that will be a summer race - ugh!

The only thing I don't like is limiting the running to 3 days a week. I am told that down the road I can do 4 days, but that is not in the near future.

For now...thumbs up on the training. Thanks to all who have been encouraging. I truly appreciate it.

Charlie

Tired and Sore, but Feeling Good!

Tonight I ran 4 miles in 48:00. I had been on my feet all day, and at the end of the run I felt good, but a bit sore. I made sure to stretch and take a colder shower for my muscles to recover.

As I was running, I was looking around at the gym, seeing who all was there. I have now gone to this gym for several years, so a good many of the people I have seen before. I think all the New Year's resolution people have given up already! I feel very comfortable at this gym, so seeing all the regulars makes me feel at home.

As for the run itself, I felt good. I did not tire until the last mile of the run. I think the standing on my feet all day finally got to me. I was a bit weary. I think that slowed me down a bit at the end. Still 4 miles is in the bank, and all is well.

Charlie

15 Miles....Way to Push The Pedals

Tonight was a bike ride at the gym. I was determined to ride 15 miles. Man that was a tall order. I did it, but dang was it tiring! I think a 15 mile run might have been easier. It took me 50:03 to get it done though, and I was pretty happy with the ride. I did not really tire until the last couple miles.

As usual, my biking "friend" was Rachel Ray. She made steak hash tonight. Looked yummy. A few less hot peppers would be in my recipe.

So how do I think I am doing? I think so far, so good. I want to add strength training to the routine, and maybe pilates. Bike riding though is a good stamina building aerobic training move.

Another good training day.

Charlie

4 Mile Run - Thoughts on My Shoes

Today I had some time to think as I ran my four miles, which is did in a great 47:39!

Quite often I am asked by customers what I wear. I usually tell them that what I wear works for me, and that it should not be a consideration in what they purchase. Still I get asked. So I will talk about my shoes at length for a bit.

I wear the Brooks Dyad. It is not a flashy or well known shoe. There are some at our other store that have a disdain for the shoe. Poor little Dyad.

I supinate like no one else I know. So I need a neutral shoe which is pretty solid in the heel. I used to alternate between the Dyad and the New Balance 1060 series. The New Balance 1063 was a horrible mess for me. They have made it a softer shoe, especially in the heel. Since I go so far over on my heel, I need that support. So now I am down to one shoe. God help me.

Around the store I do wear the Nike Air Moto or the Mizuno Rider. Both are decent shoes. Because of my width, the 2E in the Mizuno is not something I can run in, but it is ok to walk around at the store. I would like to give Adidas a shot sometime.

There are very few options for a runner like me. I hear from the reps comments like, "Oh I know you are a Dyad guy." I am, but that is because I have to be. Yes, I love my shoe, but I am willing to wear something else if it could only work for me.

For those curious....here is the Dyad! http://www.brooksrunning.com/prod.php?p=1100381D&k=123205

Charlie

Stories to Tell

Quite often the owner of our store talks about "the stories we tell with our running." He's on to something. Over the last couple years I have listened to people as they share their running stories with me. I have listened to the woman who came back from a horrible stroke, and all she wants to do is complete a marathon. I have wondered how the young man who told me he was running a marathon, but only trains 1 mile a day would have done(not too well I suspect). There are the people, like me who run to keep healthy. All they want is quality years to their lives, and they have found running does this for them.

There are the amazing stories in our sport which draw us in.....

Alberto Salazar vs. Dick Beardsley in the 1982 Boston Marathon.

Joan Benoit Samuelson winning the first women's Olympic Marathon.

Roger Bannister running the first sub-4:00 mile.

Ryan Hall qualifying for the 2008 Olympic Marathon, at the same time his friend Ryan Shay dies during the race.

Usain Bolt flashing across the track to be the world's fastest man.

You don't need to be a name to have a story to tell. Your story does not have to be a compelling heart tugging story. It can be simple. Your story is just as interesting as the next person's.

Let me throw this out. I think these stories need to be shared. Would people be interested in a book about this? If so, I keep thinking I would like to put that kind of book together. Thoughts?

Charlie

Not Running, and Still Running

I think it is safe to say I lead a running life, and have since 2004. For five years I have loved, not only running, but getting to know the running community. As you know, in addition to my running life, I have my other running life. I work with runners. I enjoy being around runners. I get to talk about running all day long. I also get to help runners achieve their goals, by getting them properly outfitted to run.

I think if I wasn't doing this I would bore my non-running friends to tears. For all I know, I do anyway.

So what do I love about being the running community? Overall I deal with some pretty happy folks. Very rarely do I encounter a grumpy runner. I love the spirit of camaraderie. We tend to celebrate our successes together, and cheer each other up when our goals have not been met. We encourage. What is there not to like about that?

Every now and then there is the runner who is obsessed with shaving a 1/2 a second of their best mile. I think of them as the Type A runners. Typically though runners work hard to better their times. We may obsess about it, but it is not all consuming. For the record I have met someone who is obsessed with shaving 1/2 a second off their best mile, and they get a bit um....how do I say it....NUTS about it.

I have been blessed to be a part of a wonderful running community, both online and in real life. I have met some wonderful people, and made some wonderful friends. All in all, I am so blessed to be part of such a wonderful community.

Charlie

End of Week 3 - 4 Miles

As I started my 4 mile run today, I was pretty pleased with myself. I am 3 weeks into the training, and feeling pretty goood. Am I where I want to be as far as strength and stamina? No. Considering I had not been running much prior to this, I think I am doing very well.



Today's gym run was at a decent pace was a 12:05/mile pace, so I was closing in on the 12:00/mile pace. Next week I kick it up a notch. I am still trying to find a way to pace myself, so I do not tire at the end of the run. The tiredness is happening later and later in the run, so that is a good thing.

I weighed myself. I tipped the scales at 214 lbs, which is up 1lb from where I was. Not too upset about it. I am getting better with the eating as I get more into the training.

So all in all a good week. Looking forward to next week - another 4 mile training week.

Charlie

Travel Channel and 4 Miles

So normally at the gym, I watch the Food Network, but today I discovered the Travel Channel. Looks like I have an option to Rachel Ray and Paula Deen. :-)

Today was a good, but tiring run. I ran the 4 miles in a 12:02/mile pace. I felt good for most of the run; however I noticed two things - around mile 2 my right hand felt a bit numb, and in the last mile I was getting tired. I found if I relaxed my right arm a bit the numbness went away. I think the tiredness is I am not used to the 4 mile run. My stamina will improve.

Overall I was happy with today's run. Tomorrow is a cross training day.

Charlie

Thoughts on a BIke

Tonight was my bike riding cross training night at the gym. It didn't feel very productive. I think my head was not into it tonight. All day I had kind a feeling like I just was not getting things right. So I took that feeling to the gym, and while I went through the motions, I just did not enjoy my workout.

I was thinking about work, life, the troubles my boyfriend has in life, my family, oh....the world. This is such a down time in our lives. By that I mean if we are not living in another depression, it sure feels depressing like we are.

So while I rode almost 6.5 miles, I felt like I was on a 1000 mile road to nowhere.

Yes...I realize this is a depressing post, and I apologize. The mood I am in is a downer tonight.

I think the other thing that bothered me was I really miss running every day, or close to every day. I feel very limited to the 3 days a week running. It feels like a restriction on me. I suppose it is in a way. I understand at some point I will be able to run at least one day more a week. Until then though this is a killer. I need to figure another method of workout.

Charlie

The First Four Miles

Today was the start of the four mile weeks. This week and next week I will be running 4 miles, 3 times, with a goal time of 12 min/mile. Today I did the 4 miles in 12:10/mile. This run felt really good. I had zero pain anywhere, and it was such a relief to run and not feel bad somewhere on my body.

I was at the gym...because I was a wimp at 15 degrees outside.

I found the heart rate interesting. I felt very good, and my max bpm was 148. My average was in the 140-144 bpm range. I felt good and could have pushed myself, but I wanted to get through this run without feeling tired, and I succeeded.

Today I listened to a very cool podcast called "Coffee Convo." This is a fun podcast about...coffee. It really kept me entertained during the run. Podcasts are a God-send to me. It makes me feel like I am running with someone.

So today I chalk up as a great running day. Got two more runs to do this week.

Charlie

Valentine's Run

Yesterday my achillies was acting up, so I postponed my run until today. Snow overnight meant I would head back to the gym. Today was the last 3 mile run before I go up in miles next week. My own goal was to run 3.1 or 5K.

I did just fine. No pain, and I felt great during the entire run. I finished in 36:43, which is not too shabby for me. My average bpm was 155, and my max was 160. I felt comfortable and loose the entire run.

So two weeks are done training wise. Next week I start the 4 mile runs every other day. So everything seems to be going well. I am going to email Scott and Dr. Natarajan and let them know how things are going.

Feeling good. Happy Valentine's Day.

Charlie

So a Guy Comes Up to Me.....

Sounds like the start of a joke, but it wasn't. I was at the gym running my 3 miles tonight(wind and rain kept me inside). Now I should tell you I go to a pretty darned gay gym. It is in the heart of "Boystown" in Chicago.

Anyway, I am running my 3 miles, watching Rachel Ray(my new best cooking friend). A guy comes up to me and starts talking. I take off my earphones to hear him. He says, "That looks good. I've been watching from behind." Did he mean me or the food? I smiled and nodded and said, "The steak looks good doesn't." He smiled, said yes....and the other things.

I would really like to think he was being flirty. Of course if Mark were there, he would have jumped over a few treadmills to get in front of this guy....or so I like to think. :-)

The run was a good one. I needed to pick up the pace today, and I managed to do it very well. I was pretty tired though the last .75 miles. Still I got these three miles in and am happy.

My bpm averaged at 155 for most of the run. The last mile it went up to 160. I wonder if that is because I am working harder, or know the end is coming up?

Charlie

Biking and Rachel Ray

Last night was a biking night at the gym. I find a good bike ride at a "furious" pace is a good cross train for me. Sadly....biking at the gym can be dull. But wait...who is that on the Food Network? Rachel Ray? Yes!

For the 30+ minutes it takes me to ride the 10 miles, I can learn how to cook a dinner. Ray is not a typical cook. In fact, I don't think she is a chef, just a woman who knows how to throw a meal together in 30 minutes. Now I have never tried to cook a meal like that in 30 minutes, but something tells me it takes a bit longer.

Still Rachel Ray is entertaining, funny, and gives me ideas for dinner. This is all good when you are on the second most boring machine at the gym - the treadmill still is winner on that one.

As for the bike ride...I went at a good clip - 10 miles in 32:42!

Charlie

I Ran Outside

The title of this entry has not been spoken in months. Whether it has been weather or health related, I have not run outside in a long time. That changed yesterday. I laced up the shoes and headed north to Evanston. I mapped out the 3 mile run, and off I went.

I got into a nice groove about a half mile into the run. I had the heart rate monitor on, so I was seeing how different it was from being inside to outside. I got to my max heart rate quicker I noticed.

It was a cloudy day, in the 40s, which is fine for running. The snow was mostly melted. Once snow melts you see how trashy we can be. I saw uncoverd trash all over the place. In the IPod = the new U2 song, among other rock hits. I wanted to rock out...and I did.

My time was 12 min/mile or 36:00. A comfortable heart rate for me was 154 bpm. During my walking breaks I was at 139 bpm. Overall I felt great. I felt like I was really into the run. My achillies was pretty good as well.

It was not only a good day....but a happy one.

Charlie