What a glorious, but darned chilly morning it was in the Chicago area. All over the country people are running Turkey Trots, or whatever Thanksgiving themed runs there are. Mark and I participated in the Edison Park Turkey Trot 5K. I ran. Mark walked. I would say between 3,000 - 4,000 were on the streets today.
If you want to PR, don't plan on doing it a race like this, unless you are in front and will stay in front. I felt ok running today. Clearly I did not set the world on fire with my time - 38:02, but all the while I thought about how great it was to be running in a race again. I have missed races.
I did take walk breaks, and I felt ok about doing that. I took more than I normally would, but this may be the way it has to be for me to be running.
The people running were in great spirits. Families ran together. Lots of folks with dogs and baby strollers. Everyone was having a blast.
I felt good as I crossed the finish line. Once I crossed, a woman tapped me on the shoulder. "You sold me a pair of shoes two years ago. I told you I wasn't a runner, and you told me you hadn't run long. Now I am a runner, and I love racing. Thanks so much, " she said. I told her that was great, and it was so wonderful to see her out.
Next I waited for Mark. Mark wants to run at some point, but before you run, you have to walk. I waited about 8 minutes, then I saw him heading to the finish line. I greeted him at the finish line with a hug and a bottle of water. He seemed pleased he completed his first 5K. Next time though....he wants to run.
Overall a great Thanksgiving run!
Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!
Charlie
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Monday, November 24, 2008
The Long Road Ahead
This time next year I should have completed my 2009 marathon(to be named later). I was thinking about this last night; it seems like that is a long way off, but it will come quickly. What will be the long part will be the training. Am I ready for it?
At this point I'm obviously not ready for a marathon. No one would be ready running 2-3 miles at a time. This is going to be a slow climb back to the kind of running I did. I hope I have it in me.
I clearly have the plan at this point, thanks to Scott. The hard part is getting my butt in gear and doing it. Of course it is tough in the coldest part of the year to say...."Charlie get out there and run." That is what I will have to do, so I can get a base going. Ideally I want to run close to 4 miles a day, three days a week. So I have a bit of work to do.
I have to get in my head not to focus on time. Time will come into play later. Now I have to get the miles in. If this means I go at a slower pace, as I have of late, then so be it. I can pick up speed later.
So while calendar wise, I think time will fly, but in the road of training, that is a long so uphill climb. As always I will detail that road. Typically I name my journeys, "The Road to..." This journey may be nicknamed, "The Road Back." Never fear though, I will figure out a marathon soon.
Charlie
At this point I'm obviously not ready for a marathon. No one would be ready running 2-3 miles at a time. This is going to be a slow climb back to the kind of running I did. I hope I have it in me.
I clearly have the plan at this point, thanks to Scott. The hard part is getting my butt in gear and doing it. Of course it is tough in the coldest part of the year to say...."Charlie get out there and run." That is what I will have to do, so I can get a base going. Ideally I want to run close to 4 miles a day, three days a week. So I have a bit of work to do.
I have to get in my head not to focus on time. Time will come into play later. Now I have to get the miles in. If this means I go at a slower pace, as I have of late, then so be it. I can pick up speed later.
So while calendar wise, I think time will fly, but in the road of training, that is a long so uphill climb. As always I will detail that road. Typically I name my journeys, "The Road to..." This journey may be nicknamed, "The Road Back." Never fear though, I will figure out a marathon soon.
Charlie
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Fall Run Through the Neighborhood
Today I went on a 2.58 mile run through the neighborhood. Very brisk outside. Temperatures were in the 30's. I headed west from East Rogers Park where I live towards West Rogers Park. It was sunny and as I said brisk.
It has been a while since I ran for longer periods in the cold. I forgot how difficult it can be to breathe in this weather. It was a bit of a struggle. I was breathing pretty hard out there. I handled it pretty well though.
For the week I have run 6.80 miles. Not bad for getting back into things. Next week, I am looking at running a bit more. I want to increase it in small increments so I am not over doing it. The general rule is 10% increase. I am running a 5K Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving, so I know the miles will be upped a bit.
All in all, happy to be out running.
Charlie
It has been a while since I ran for longer periods in the cold. I forgot how difficult it can be to breathe in this weather. It was a bit of a struggle. I was breathing pretty hard out there. I handled it pretty well though.
For the week I have run 6.80 miles. Not bad for getting back into things. Next week, I am looking at running a bit more. I want to increase it in small increments so I am not over doing it. The general rule is 10% increase. I am running a 5K Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving, so I know the miles will be upped a bit.
All in all, happy to be out running.
Charlie
Friday, November 21, 2008
Slow, but Good
It seems odd not to be writing about all the miles I run. These days a good run is if I can run 3 miles. I am happy that I am running, but now I want to notch it up a bit. I would like to get to running 4 miles a day, three days a week.
Physical wise, I think I can do it, my body is out of practice of that kind of running. So I need to build slowly. I am not good at the building slowly thing. I want to run the longer distances at the pace I used to, and I can't right now. That is a definite source of frustration.
I know this all takes time, and I have to remember that. I would like to try 4 miles tomorrow. We will see what happens.
Charlie
Physical wise, I think I can do it, my body is out of practice of that kind of running. So I need to build slowly. I am not good at the building slowly thing. I want to run the longer distances at the pace I used to, and I can't right now. That is a definite source of frustration.
I know this all takes time, and I have to remember that. I would like to try 4 miles tomorrow. We will see what happens.
Charlie
Monday, November 17, 2008
The Economy of Running
Hi Folks....
Sorry it's been a while since I last posted. Lots has gone on. Just to catch up, I was out of town for a few days last week. I was in Portland, OR. That is one nice place I have to say. While I was there I turned 46. 46? Wow......good thing I look 26. :-) I have run some, a few miles here and there, and I feel good for the most part.
Today I want to address the state of our economy and running. Our store is feeling the economic pinch. Folks are buying shoes, but it is tougher to sell that $50-$80 technical shirt. I am wondering how people are coping with their running in this economy. Are runners looking at what races they can and can't afford? Shoe wise are you looking for less expensive shoes?
I know Steve Runner talked about gift ideas for the runner on his latest podcast this week. I will add my .02. Socks are a great gift for a runner. My two favorites are Balega and Feetures. Balega especially is the most darned comfortable sock I have put on my feet. Running books are a good idea. I have landed an early version of "Once a Runner" which will be published next April. Our store got early copies and are selling them. I will give a review once I am done. Gift cards. I know this seems like a cop out, but really get your runner a gift card, and let them wander through a running store. It's like kids in a candy store, and gift cards are like free money to spend.
So there you have it for now. Sorry it has been a while since I posted. I will post more often now.
Charlie
Sorry it's been a while since I last posted. Lots has gone on. Just to catch up, I was out of town for a few days last week. I was in Portland, OR. That is one nice place I have to say. While I was there I turned 46. 46? Wow......good thing I look 26. :-) I have run some, a few miles here and there, and I feel good for the most part.
Today I want to address the state of our economy and running. Our store is feeling the economic pinch. Folks are buying shoes, but it is tougher to sell that $50-$80 technical shirt. I am wondering how people are coping with their running in this economy. Are runners looking at what races they can and can't afford? Shoe wise are you looking for less expensive shoes?
I know Steve Runner talked about gift ideas for the runner on his latest podcast this week. I will add my .02. Socks are a great gift for a runner. My two favorites are Balega and Feetures. Balega especially is the most darned comfortable sock I have put on my feet. Running books are a good idea. I have landed an early version of "Once a Runner" which will be published next April. Our store got early copies and are selling them. I will give a review once I am done. Gift cards. I know this seems like a cop out, but really get your runner a gift card, and let them wander through a running store. It's like kids in a candy store, and gift cards are like free money to spend.
So there you have it for now. Sorry it has been a while since I posted. I will post more often now.
Charlie
Saturday, November 08, 2008
500
Milestones are a time when we reflect, and then take a look ahead. This entry is my 500th on this blog, so it is a milestone for me.
So if I were to take a look back at the previous 499 entires, I would see that I held true to what I wanted to accomplish - writing about my running and my weight loss. Of course it isn't as simple as that. I have shared my hopes, dreams, goals and some of my life with you. I have shared my highs and I have shared my lows.
In looking at my running accomplishments, I hold two races as my ultimate highs to this point. First was the 2006 Sunburst Half Marathon. For those who have not heard of it, the Sunburst races are held in my home town of South Bend, IN. The races start at the College Football Hall of Fame and end on the 50 yard line of Notre Dame Stadium. I grew up spending my Fall Saturdays in that stadium, watching Notre Dame football. Over the years I got to see greats like Joe Montana play , the amazing Ara Parseghian coaching on the sidelines, and thrill to the Notre Dame Victory March.
I remember choking up as I approached the stadium. My sister was inside waiting for me. I called her to let her know I was on my way. People cheered as I ran around towards the tunnel area. As I headed into the tunnel, the Notre Dame Victory March was playing. I came out of that tunnel, and heard my name over the sound system - Charlie Colpaert from Chicago, IL! To this day I STILL get chills thinking of that moment.
My first marathon was the Rock n Roll Phoenix Marathon, January, 2007. As I have told in the past, things were going pretty well until I developed blisters on my heels. My best friend Marshall was there. I remember meeting him at mile 23, and he told me I only had 3 miles to go, and he knew I could do it! I struggled those that 3 miles. I was walking hard at that point. Running was not on the agenda. When I was at mile 26, a Team in Training Coach saw me and said, "Dude, you don't look too good. What do you need." I said, "I need the frickin finish line." He laughed and told me I was close. When I saw the finish line, I was determined to run to the end. I did. Marshall was there to give me a hug as I was very emotional and so incredibly proud of what I had done.
I would say the low point started with the 2007 Chicago Marathon and has gone on all year. While I was able to run some races, especially the Cherry Blossom 10 Mile in Washington, D.C. I am also thrilled that I got to coach a group of women to their first 5K race. It has been a year of injury and adjustment for me.
As I have shared I am in the early stages of degenerative arthritis. I have no true idea what this will mean for my running future. For now though I am being encouraged to run as long as I am able and comfortable. I feel with a good plan for training, I will successfully finish a marathon next year. The marathons I am looking at are the NYC Marathon, the Portland Marathon, and possibly the Chicago Marathon. We will see.
So what is the future? My goal is to run as long as I am physically able to. I love running. I hope to share more of my passion for running, because it brings me so much joy.
I have been told by several people who read this blog that I have inspired them in some way. I am truly honored that anyone would find inspiration in what I do. I also feel very humbled by such comments. I am not always sure what to do with praise like that, except to simply say thank you.
I would like to share for a moment some people who inspire me:
Dean Karnazes - the amazing ultramarathoner. He keeps on going, and bringing new people to running. His determinitation, and wonderful spirit is the essence of a great runner.
Joan Benoit Samuelson - the first Olympic Women's Marathon Champion. At age 50, she set a new record for her age group at this year's Olympic Trials. She is not only a terrific ambassador for running, but a noble spirit.
Oscar Pistorius - the South African runner, who uses prosthetics. While he did not qualify for this year's Olympics, his desire to compete at the highest level inspires me.
Steve "Runner" Walker - the host of "Phedippidations" podcast. For those who have not listened to this podcast, Steve is the ultimate running partner. His rambling diatribes keep so many of us going on our runs. We are not only educated by him on the topic de jour, but we feel we have a real friend running with us. One of my long range goals is to go for a real run with Steve. I would slow him down, but I hope he would enjoy a run with me.
So there it is - #500. Not sure what the next 500 entries will be like, but I will be here sharing all with you.
Peace,
Charlie
So if I were to take a look back at the previous 499 entires, I would see that I held true to what I wanted to accomplish - writing about my running and my weight loss. Of course it isn't as simple as that. I have shared my hopes, dreams, goals and some of my life with you. I have shared my highs and I have shared my lows.
In looking at my running accomplishments, I hold two races as my ultimate highs to this point. First was the 2006 Sunburst Half Marathon. For those who have not heard of it, the Sunburst races are held in my home town of South Bend, IN. The races start at the College Football Hall of Fame and end on the 50 yard line of Notre Dame Stadium. I grew up spending my Fall Saturdays in that stadium, watching Notre Dame football. Over the years I got to see greats like Joe Montana play , the amazing Ara Parseghian coaching on the sidelines, and thrill to the Notre Dame Victory March.
I remember choking up as I approached the stadium. My sister was inside waiting for me. I called her to let her know I was on my way. People cheered as I ran around towards the tunnel area. As I headed into the tunnel, the Notre Dame Victory March was playing. I came out of that tunnel, and heard my name over the sound system - Charlie Colpaert from Chicago, IL! To this day I STILL get chills thinking of that moment.
My first marathon was the Rock n Roll Phoenix Marathon, January, 2007. As I have told in the past, things were going pretty well until I developed blisters on my heels. My best friend Marshall was there. I remember meeting him at mile 23, and he told me I only had 3 miles to go, and he knew I could do it! I struggled those that 3 miles. I was walking hard at that point. Running was not on the agenda. When I was at mile 26, a Team in Training Coach saw me and said, "Dude, you don't look too good. What do you need." I said, "I need the frickin finish line." He laughed and told me I was close. When I saw the finish line, I was determined to run to the end. I did. Marshall was there to give me a hug as I was very emotional and so incredibly proud of what I had done.
I would say the low point started with the 2007 Chicago Marathon and has gone on all year. While I was able to run some races, especially the Cherry Blossom 10 Mile in Washington, D.C. I am also thrilled that I got to coach a group of women to their first 5K race. It has been a year of injury and adjustment for me.
As I have shared I am in the early stages of degenerative arthritis. I have no true idea what this will mean for my running future. For now though I am being encouraged to run as long as I am able and comfortable. I feel with a good plan for training, I will successfully finish a marathon next year. The marathons I am looking at are the NYC Marathon, the Portland Marathon, and possibly the Chicago Marathon. We will see.
So what is the future? My goal is to run as long as I am physically able to. I love running. I hope to share more of my passion for running, because it brings me so much joy.
I have been told by several people who read this blog that I have inspired them in some way. I am truly honored that anyone would find inspiration in what I do. I also feel very humbled by such comments. I am not always sure what to do with praise like that, except to simply say thank you.
I would like to share for a moment some people who inspire me:
Dean Karnazes - the amazing ultramarathoner. He keeps on going, and bringing new people to running. His determinitation, and wonderful spirit is the essence of a great runner.
Joan Benoit Samuelson - the first Olympic Women's Marathon Champion. At age 50, she set a new record for her age group at this year's Olympic Trials. She is not only a terrific ambassador for running, but a noble spirit.
Oscar Pistorius - the South African runner, who uses prosthetics. While he did not qualify for this year's Olympics, his desire to compete at the highest level inspires me.
Steve "Runner" Walker - the host of "Phedippidations" podcast. For those who have not listened to this podcast, Steve is the ultimate running partner. His rambling diatribes keep so many of us going on our runs. We are not only educated by him on the topic de jour, but we feel we have a real friend running with us. One of my long range goals is to go for a real run with Steve. I would slow him down, but I hope he would enjoy a run with me.
So there it is - #500. Not sure what the next 500 entries will be like, but I will be here sharing all with you.
Peace,
Charlie
Friday, November 07, 2008
The First Eleven Weeks
As promised I am going to share the initial part of the marathon training plan that Scott, my former marathon coach came up with.
Week
2-Mar 3 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 3 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 3 Miles - 12:00 min/mile
9-Mar 3 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 3 Miles - 11:00 min/mile 3 Miles - 11:45 min/mile
16-Mar 4 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 4 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 4 Miles - 12:00 min/mile
23-Mar 4 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 4 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 4 Miles - 11:45 min/mile
30-Mar 4 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 4 Miles - 11:00 min/mile 4 Miles - 11:30 min/mile
6-Apr 5 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 5 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 5 Miles - 12:00 min/mile
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 - 12:00 min/mile
4-May 6 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 6 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 6 Miles - 11:45 min/mile
11-May 6 Miles - 11:30 min/mile 6 Miles - 11:00 min/mile 6 Miles - 11:30 min/mile
As you can see it is a slow progression of miles, all done in a time frame that is comfortable for me to run. My average pace is in a 11:00-12:00 min/mile, so Scott has made plans for that. On a couple of the says I am not running, I would be cross training. The next step of the plan would involve a 4th day of running, but that would be it. So at this point there is no traditional long run day. Each day I run it is the same miles, just the pace differs. As per the doctor's orders, there is no speed work or hill training.
I will share this with Dr. Natarajan. I think he will be pleased with this.
Now all I need is the fall marathon, and I am set.
Charlie
Week
2-Mar 3 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 3 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 3 Miles - 12:00 min/mile
9-Mar 3 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 3 Miles - 11:00 min/mile 3 Miles - 11:45 min/mile
16-Mar 4 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 4 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 4 Miles - 12:00 min/mile
23-Mar 4 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 4 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 4 Miles - 11:45 min/mile
30-Mar 4 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 4 Miles - 11:00 min/mile 4 Miles - 11:30 min/mile
6-Apr 5 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 5 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 5 Miles - 12:00 min/mile
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 - 12:00 min/mile
4-May 6 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 6 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 6 Miles - 11:45 min/mile
11-May 6 Miles - 11:30 min/mile 6 Miles - 11:00 min/mile 6 Miles - 11:30 min/mile
As you can see it is a slow progression of miles, all done in a time frame that is comfortable for me to run. My average pace is in a 11:00-12:00 min/mile, so Scott has made plans for that. On a couple of the says I am not running, I would be cross training. The next step of the plan would involve a 4th day of running, but that would be it. So at this point there is no traditional long run day. Each day I run it is the same miles, just the pace differs. As per the doctor's orders, there is no speed work or hill training.
I will share this with Dr. Natarajan. I think he will be pleased with this.
Now all I need is the fall marathon, and I am set.
Charlie
Thursday, November 06, 2008
Worked Out!!!!!
Today was an ActivTrax day. MAN did I workout. I did a half hour resistance workout designed for the whole body. I'm still a bit sore from all the pulling and stretching I did.
For the cardio, I ran. My idea was to get the three days in, as I am not sure what the weekend will hold for me. Work and weather are looking like it would be tough to get a run in. So I ran a strong 3 miles. To tell you I am tired is an understatement. I AM TIRED!!!
I felt great though. For the week I ran 7.4 miles. This is more than I have run in a couple weeks.
Also....Scott has sent me the first 10 week schedule for my marathon plan. I will share it later. I like what I am seeing. Very doable, and will still be a gradual climb in miles.
So the phrase for this workout is - tired, but I feel GOOD!
Charlie
For the cardio, I ran. My idea was to get the three days in, as I am not sure what the weekend will hold for me. Work and weather are looking like it would be tough to get a run in. So I ran a strong 3 miles. To tell you I am tired is an understatement. I AM TIRED!!!
I felt great though. For the week I ran 7.4 miles. This is more than I have run in a couple weeks.
Also....Scott has sent me the first 10 week schedule for my marathon plan. I will share it later. I like what I am seeing. Very doable, and will still be a gradual climb in miles.
So the phrase for this workout is - tired, but I feel GOOD!
Charlie
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Finding What I Lost
Today I had a talk with Beth, my physical therapist. She asked me how much I ran last week. I ran darned little as I have of late. Mostly the problem is I feel I have lost how to run. Injuries, the arthritis, no sense of purpose with my running. It all has brought me down. She reminded me she thinks I am doing great. It sure has not felt like it.
After PT I ran at the gym. Mark told me I needed to get my butt running, and do three miles. I did. I have to say it felt great. I needed a really good run to get me going. My time was 35:49. No, not the fastest ever, but the accomplishment was running the 3 miles.
So how do I find what I lost? Is it as simple as setting my next goal? Is it just making sure I get out the door and run?
Next week I will be going to Portland, OR, a running mecca. Perhaps I will find what I lost there? Maybe being in a different running environment will get me going.
Charlie
After PT I ran at the gym. Mark told me I needed to get my butt running, and do three miles. I did. I have to say it felt great. I needed a really good run to get me going. My time was 35:49. No, not the fastest ever, but the accomplishment was running the 3 miles.
So how do I find what I lost? Is it as simple as setting my next goal? Is it just making sure I get out the door and run?
Next week I will be going to Portland, OR, a running mecca. Perhaps I will find what I lost there? Maybe being in a different running environment will get me going.
Charlie
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Back to the Workout
Today was my first real workout on the weights in two years. I mentioned this in a previous post. ActivTrax is an individualized program at my gym. Today the focus was on my back. I was rusty...very rusty, but the workout went well. I worked out for about 40 minutes, then I ran on the treadmill for 15 minutes. Typically I will do another activity, as the ActivTrax is my cross training day, but I wanted to run today.
I felt pretty good after the run. No pain!!! This is good as I head into my physical therapy tomorrow. I am eagerly awaiting what marathon plan Scott has come up for me. Maybe I will have it tomorrow???
Charlie
I felt pretty good after the run. No pain!!! This is good as I head into my physical therapy tomorrow. I am eagerly awaiting what marathon plan Scott has come up for me. Maybe I will have it tomorrow???
Charlie
Monday, October 27, 2008
Another Loser
Over the weekend I had the opportunity to help a woman with shoes. She told me she was training for her 2nd half marathon, with a goal of running the Chicago Marathon next year. I told her I thought that was great. She told me she is a "loser." I looked at her oddly, and asked why she thought that.
She explained that she has a new life thanks to running, because she has lost 100 lbs. I told her about my loss, and she told me I am a "loser" too. While I found the irony in her comment, I told her we are winners. She smiled, and was pretty happy with her shoes - bonus!
I told her to check back and let me know how her progress is going.
Charlie
She explained that she has a new life thanks to running, because she has lost 100 lbs. I told her about my loss, and she told me I am a "loser" too. While I found the irony in her comment, I told her we are winners. She smiled, and was pretty happy with her shoes - bonus!
I told her to check back and let me know how her progress is going.
Charlie
Friday, October 24, 2008
The Plan is Being Formed
Whatever marathon I decide to do in 2009, the plan is being formed now, so I will be ready. As I previously wrote, my doctor gave me the green light for a marathon next year, but I have to develop a 32-week training plan, which would have 3-4 days of running, and lots of cross training.
Yesterday I met with Scott, my marathon coach from last year, and also the manager of my gym. He and I exchanged emails over the last couple of weeks about him helping me develop a plan. There does not seem to be one out there. Lords knows I have looked. Scott is a great guy, who is eager to help. He made it seem very easy to work on.
He agrees with the doctor about the running 3 days a week. In fact he suggested as I work on a base towards the program, I run 3 days a week for 45 minutes. Scott's plan would have me run 4 days a week when I am towards the month before the marathon. No speed work, but tempo work is fine. His idea is that this plan would get me to finish a marathon, but would not be a "looking to PR" plan. I told him I still want to finish sub 6 hours, and he told me that was fine.
He will work on it, and get it to me next week.
If this is successful, I think this has the potential to be a great plan for people with arthritis who want to run long distances.
One a side note, Scott asked me who my doctor is. I told him it is Dr. Natarajan, and he laughed. He starts going to him next week.
After my meeting with Scott, I met up with Josh, my off and on personal trainer. My gym has a program called ActivTrax. With ActivTrax you go through an assessment - your fitness goals, weight, height, BMI, body fat percentage, cardio stamina and strength ability. All of that is put into the computer and your workouts are created based one your personal information. Every 6 months you are re-assesed and the workouts are altered accordingly.
At the start I will say up front that I currently weigh 212 lbs. This is up from where I was this time last year. My body fat is 29%. At my best I was at 23%. So all of this makes sense with the lack of activity I have done this year. I want to head back to 200 lbs, and I know that will take some time. As you all know, I have been there before.
I have a good team working with me. Dr. Natarajan, Scott, Josh and Beth my PT are all working with me to be healthy and get focused on 2009.
Charlie
Yesterday I met with Scott, my marathon coach from last year, and also the manager of my gym. He and I exchanged emails over the last couple of weeks about him helping me develop a plan. There does not seem to be one out there. Lords knows I have looked. Scott is a great guy, who is eager to help. He made it seem very easy to work on.
He agrees with the doctor about the running 3 days a week. In fact he suggested as I work on a base towards the program, I run 3 days a week for 45 minutes. Scott's plan would have me run 4 days a week when I am towards the month before the marathon. No speed work, but tempo work is fine. His idea is that this plan would get me to finish a marathon, but would not be a "looking to PR" plan. I told him I still want to finish sub 6 hours, and he told me that was fine.
He will work on it, and get it to me next week.
If this is successful, I think this has the potential to be a great plan for people with arthritis who want to run long distances.
One a side note, Scott asked me who my doctor is. I told him it is Dr. Natarajan, and he laughed. He starts going to him next week.
After my meeting with Scott, I met up with Josh, my off and on personal trainer. My gym has a program called ActivTrax. With ActivTrax you go through an assessment - your fitness goals, weight, height, BMI, body fat percentage, cardio stamina and strength ability. All of that is put into the computer and your workouts are created based one your personal information. Every 6 months you are re-assesed and the workouts are altered accordingly.
At the start I will say up front that I currently weigh 212 lbs. This is up from where I was this time last year. My body fat is 29%. At my best I was at 23%. So all of this makes sense with the lack of activity I have done this year. I want to head back to 200 lbs, and I know that will take some time. As you all know, I have been there before.
I have a good team working with me. Dr. Natarajan, Scott, Josh and Beth my PT are all working with me to be healthy and get focused on 2009.
Charlie
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Dinner with a Hero
Tonight I had the exteme honor of having dinner with a real hero in the running community - Dick Beardsley. For those who are not familiar with Beardsley, he is best known for his "Duel in the Sun" with Alberto Salazar in the 1982 Boston Marathon. Beardsley and Salazar were neck in neck for most of the race, with Salazar pulling ahead right at the end. Two seconds separated the two on the finish line.
New Balance, Beardsley's long time sponsor brought him to our main store for a fun run, and a talk afterwards. I was invited to meet him, the folks from New Balance, and also for dinner. I can honestly say that Dick Beardsley is one of the nicest people I have met. He is originally from Minnesota, and he had that Minnesota accent going. He is a sweetheart of a man.
His story is inspiring. While he has had a successful running career, Dick has overcome a horrible accidents, which left his body badly injured and a prescription drug addiction. He speaks around the coutnry about this, and I have to say everyone on the room tonight was riveted by his story.
He and his wife have founded the Dick Beardsley Foundation, which is a community-based organization created to educate children and young adults about the importance of a healthy and active lifestyle and to educate the public about the danger of drugs and chemical dependency.
www.dickbeardsleyfoundation.org.
I had the opportunity to ask him some questions about his duel with Salazar, as well as about his foundation.
Being a member of the running community has been such a thrill for me. I have gotten to meet two men who have heart, and really give back to the running community, as well as the world at large - Dick Beardsley and Dean Karnazes.
Beardsley has written about his life, and was selling copies of his book, with proceeds going to his foundation. He was very generous to write me a nice note in my book. As I said, tonight I feel I had a real honor.
Charlie
New Balance, Beardsley's long time sponsor brought him to our main store for a fun run, and a talk afterwards. I was invited to meet him, the folks from New Balance, and also for dinner. I can honestly say that Dick Beardsley is one of the nicest people I have met. He is originally from Minnesota, and he had that Minnesota accent going. He is a sweetheart of a man.
His story is inspiring. While he has had a successful running career, Dick has overcome a horrible accidents, which left his body badly injured and a prescription drug addiction. He speaks around the coutnry about this, and I have to say everyone on the room tonight was riveted by his story.
He and his wife have founded the Dick Beardsley Foundation, which is a community-based organization created to educate children and young adults about the importance of a healthy and active lifestyle and to educate the public about the danger of drugs and chemical dependency.
www.dickbeardsleyfoundation.org.
I had the opportunity to ask him some questions about his duel with Salazar, as well as about his foundation.
Being a member of the running community has been such a thrill for me. I have gotten to meet two men who have heart, and really give back to the running community, as well as the world at large - Dick Beardsley and Dean Karnazes.
Beardsley has written about his life, and was selling copies of his book, with proceeds going to his foundation. He was very generous to write me a nice note in my book. As I said, tonight I feel I had a real honor.
Charlie
Saturday, October 18, 2008
So What Marathon Should I Do?
Today I would have run the Indianapolis Marathon if all had been healthy and well. So while I mourn the fact I did not run this year, I am looking ahead to next year's marathon. So which one will I do?
I don't know, and I am open to suggestions. I need a flat race, preferably in the fall. Chicago is a possibility, but I don't feel warm and fuzzy about it. New York is on my list, but I am told it can be hilly. I am going to visit Portland soon, maybe that one? San Antonio is on the list. I would love to know what some of you think.
I am not sure how many marathons I have in me with the arthritis, so I want to make it an important one. Suggestions?
Charlie
I don't know, and I am open to suggestions. I need a flat race, preferably in the fall. Chicago is a possibility, but I don't feel warm and fuzzy about it. New York is on my list, but I am told it can be hilly. I am going to visit Portland soon, maybe that one? San Antonio is on the list. I would love to know what some of you think.
I am not sure how many marathons I have in me with the arthritis, so I want to make it an important one. Suggestions?
Charlie
Friday, October 17, 2008
Scoop!
Yesterday's physical therapy was a good one. I sat down with Beth and talked about what the doctor and I went over a week ago, and she agreed on the issues that he wants covered. So yesterday was a pilates workout.
Pilates is designed to strengthen your core. This is an area where I am very weak. The stomach, pelvis, back and hips need to be strong, and pilates does an excellent job of getting those regions stronger. So yesterday we focused on the stomach. I need to "scoop." Scooping as Beth calls it is pulling in the belly button, and breathing while I am pulling it all in. She wants me to do this not only during the exercises, but in real life as well. If I sit - I scoop. If I walk - I scoop. If I stand - I scoop.
I'm not sure how it will look, but I will be scooping all over Chicago. SCOOP!
Charlie
Pilates is designed to strengthen your core. This is an area where I am very weak. The stomach, pelvis, back and hips need to be strong, and pilates does an excellent job of getting those regions stronger. So yesterday we focused on the stomach. I need to "scoop." Scooping as Beth calls it is pulling in the belly button, and breathing while I am pulling it all in. She wants me to do this not only during the exercises, but in real life as well. If I sit - I scoop. If I walk - I scoop. If I stand - I scoop.
I'm not sure how it will look, but I will be scooping all over Chicago. SCOOP!
Charlie
Thursday, October 16, 2008
My Passion Continued.....
I thought I would continue on the thread of my passion for running, I hope you will indulge me a bit.
I have missed running this year. I mean I miss really running. Running a few miles and there has been hard on me. I want to run for 6 miles, 10 miles, a marathon. Running is freedom for me. It is a chance for me to be outside of my normal self for a time. I get to see things on a run, I ordnarily don't see. I get to be at peace on a run.
I will be honest, being injured has really taken a toll on my psyche. I have felt down without running, and it worries me, because what happens the day I can't run anymore? The easy answer is, "Go find something else." Well so far nothing is like running to me.
As a boy my outlet was singing and dancing. I spent hours in our basement performing for imaginary audiences or my sister and mom. For me that was freedom from the saddness that was in our house after my brother died. I stopped singing when I was in college. I sing to myself now and then, but there is no place for me to sing anymore.
In running I have found the same outlet to let go that singing provided me as a child. I can't believe it took me so long to find that outlet, but I did. Now I don't want to give it up. I want to be joyful as I run along Lake Michigan. I want to see people out and about as I head down Sheridan Rd. I like seeing the interaction of students as I run through Loyola University.
As I have shared before, I find running to be a meditative process for me. I feel a connection with God as I run. I feel he runs with me.
Maybe it has taken my lack of running to realize...again, how much running means to me. Once I am fully healed, I am not ever going to take my runs for granted.
Charlie
I have missed running this year. I mean I miss really running. Running a few miles and there has been hard on me. I want to run for 6 miles, 10 miles, a marathon. Running is freedom for me. It is a chance for me to be outside of my normal self for a time. I get to see things on a run, I ordnarily don't see. I get to be at peace on a run.
I will be honest, being injured has really taken a toll on my psyche. I have felt down without running, and it worries me, because what happens the day I can't run anymore? The easy answer is, "Go find something else." Well so far nothing is like running to me.
As a boy my outlet was singing and dancing. I spent hours in our basement performing for imaginary audiences or my sister and mom. For me that was freedom from the saddness that was in our house after my brother died. I stopped singing when I was in college. I sing to myself now and then, but there is no place for me to sing anymore.
In running I have found the same outlet to let go that singing provided me as a child. I can't believe it took me so long to find that outlet, but I did. Now I don't want to give it up. I want to be joyful as I run along Lake Michigan. I want to see people out and about as I head down Sheridan Rd. I like seeing the interaction of students as I run through Loyola University.
As I have shared before, I find running to be a meditative process for me. I feel a connection with God as I run. I feel he runs with me.
Maybe it has taken my lack of running to realize...again, how much running means to me. Once I am fully healed, I am not ever going to take my runs for granted.
Charlie
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
My Passion and Living With It
Over the weekend a former classmate of mine from graduate school was in my store with friends. She is a member of the area chamber of commerce, so I deal with her from time to time. I went over to say hello...(names have NOT been changed...there are no innocent). "Hi Karrie," I said. She turned and said, "Oh you're still here." I told her I was and smiled.
When you are in grad school, you have ideas of where you would like to be. I had hoped to be working for a non-profit in Africa at this point, but life has a funny way of leading us around. I was even approved for the Peace Corps, but in the end decided not to go at this time. Instead I work at Fleet Feet Sports.
Now, I should say I am in no way ashamed of what I do. Evidently Karrie is a bit ashamed, but not me. Running is my passion. Every day I get to talk to people who share my passion, or are about to, if they are new runners. I love talking to people about their running and fitness goals. I love seeing how animated they get when they talk about their latest race, or how training is going. I also love the folks who just want to be fitter.
All day, I get to live with my passion. For some this would be overwhelming, but not for me.
In time I have an idea that my non profit ideas will be rooted in running, and why not?
So Karrie, while "I am still here," just know I am living my passion....what are you doing?
Charlie
When you are in grad school, you have ideas of where you would like to be. I had hoped to be working for a non-profit in Africa at this point, but life has a funny way of leading us around. I was even approved for the Peace Corps, but in the end decided not to go at this time. Instead I work at Fleet Feet Sports.
Now, I should say I am in no way ashamed of what I do. Evidently Karrie is a bit ashamed, but not me. Running is my passion. Every day I get to talk to people who share my passion, or are about to, if they are new runners. I love talking to people about their running and fitness goals. I love seeing how animated they get when they talk about their latest race, or how training is going. I also love the folks who just want to be fitter.
All day, I get to live with my passion. For some this would be overwhelming, but not for me.
In time I have an idea that my non profit ideas will be rooted in running, and why not?
So Karrie, while "I am still here," just know I am living my passion....what are you doing?
Charlie
Sunday, October 12, 2008
What a Difference a Year Makes
It is the night before the Chicago Marathon. A little over a year ago, the marathon turned into a debacle. This year tensions are high, since the weather is now predicted to be a high of 81 degrees. It will not be quite as bad as last year, but it is going to be a warm one. For the last two days I have played counselor to the runners in the race. While I enjoy talking to the runners, it is bittersweet for me.
Next week I was supposed to run the Indianapolis Marathon, as we know now, I won't. I have missed the training, and the excitement of getting ready for a marathon. This has been a frustrating year as far as health and running. I miss being the runner I have been. I know I will get back to it, but it has been very depressing at times.
I will be up and out early cheering on the runners, hoping to see friends and customers I know out there. Still a large part of me will wish I was out there with them.
Next year.....
Charlie
Next week I was supposed to run the Indianapolis Marathon, as we know now, I won't. I have missed the training, and the excitement of getting ready for a marathon. This has been a frustrating year as far as health and running. I miss being the runner I have been. I know I will get back to it, but it has been very depressing at times.
I will be up and out early cheering on the runners, hoping to see friends and customers I know out there. Still a large part of me will wish I was out there with them.
Next year.....
Charlie
Friday, October 10, 2008
Deja Vu?
The forecast for this year's Chicago Marathon is a low of 62, and a high of 75. Runners are trembling that this is last year all over again. It isn't really, but I can understand that thought. Marathon officials have devised a weather warning system, much like the color coded terror alert system in the U.S. They have also added aid stations, and will offer wet sponges to runners.
Still nervous customers are talking to me about their concerns.
This year won't be like last year. Oh it will be a warm one, it just won't be a HOT one.
I will be out there cheering though. Can't wait to see the runners go by.
Charlie
Still nervous customers are talking to me about their concerns.
This year won't be like last year. Oh it will be a warm one, it just won't be a HOT one.
I will be out there cheering though. Can't wait to see the runners go by.
Charlie
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
Looking to 2009!
Today I met with my regular doctor who was as happy as I was about the no cancer result. So now we got down to business. He was extremely pleased with my progress from physical therapy. He could tell I had gotten stronger in my legs, but now I need to work on my core.
To that end, he gave me the green light for a mid to late 2009 marathon. Instead of the usual 16 week training though, he wants me to develop a 32 week training program. His thought is that with my arthritis, I need to prepare more for a marathon. So I am going to research from possible plans, if there aren't any, I suppose I develop one on my own. The plan has to be heavy on cross training so my body is strong, and the pounding on my hips will be minimal.
For now I continue PT; however, he wants it focused, and with one therapist only. If that means cutting back some to do that, then so be it.
He asked me what other issues bothered me. I told him I had not been eating well over the last month. He wanted to know if I needed a nutritionist. I told him I would pass on that, and work on it myself. I have done it before, and I can do it again.
So all in all it is a positive week on the medical front. The doctor wants to see me in December to see how I am progressing, and then once I hit double digit miles, he wants me to undergo some additional tests.
So now I look for a 2009 marathon. Off the top of my head, I am not inclined to run Chicago. While I have unfinished business with that race, I am not sure I want to go through with it for now. We will see. Plenty of time to consider.
Charlie
To that end, he gave me the green light for a mid to late 2009 marathon. Instead of the usual 16 week training though, he wants me to develop a 32 week training program. His thought is that with my arthritis, I need to prepare more for a marathon. So I am going to research from possible plans, if there aren't any, I suppose I develop one on my own. The plan has to be heavy on cross training so my body is strong, and the pounding on my hips will be minimal.
For now I continue PT; however, he wants it focused, and with one therapist only. If that means cutting back some to do that, then so be it.
He asked me what other issues bothered me. I told him I had not been eating well over the last month. He wanted to know if I needed a nutritionist. I told him I would pass on that, and work on it myself. I have done it before, and I can do it again.
So all in all it is a positive week on the medical front. The doctor wants to see me in December to see how I am progressing, and then once I hit double digit miles, he wants me to undergo some additional tests.
So now I look for a 2009 marathon. Off the top of my head, I am not inclined to run Chicago. While I have unfinished business with that race, I am not sure I want to go through with it for now. We will see. Plenty of time to consider.
Charlie
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