Tag: Platte River Half

Platte River Training: Week 12

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Week 12. I can’t even believe how quick training has gone by. It’s hard to believe that I only have 4 more weeks until my first half of the year. And even after that point, it is a continuous roll of half after half!

This week was a little tougher than I anticipated. My legs felt tight during my first two shorter runs, but I’m pretty sure it was because they were still in shock from the hills of St. Malachi. Needless to say, I was able to stay around a 9 minute pace for both runs, I’m glad my body is adjusting to running faster. My weekend runs were both in Wooster this weekend, so I was able to change up the view and try my legs on even more hills.

Saturday I had my first uneasy encounter during a run. Wooster, as far as I’ve known has been pretty safe. I had no set pace or distance that I wanted to do, just wanted to shake out my legs and make sure they were ok with Sunday’s long run. I started down a country road across from Darren’s apartment. I felt great, managed some small hills and took in the beautiful views. On my way back in, I went through some housing developments, and this is where it turned weird. Every time I turned a corner, I had a car full of high school boys either following me or passing me. My guess was that this happened about 4-5 times, in two different developments. While I’m sure it was just a bunch of boys up to no good on a Saturday morning, it still bothered me, so I booked it home.

Sunday  I was ready for my long run, but more nervous for the hills, lots of hills, so 12 miles would be tough. I decided to split up my run so it wouldn’t be as over whelming. The goal was a 4 mile loop, refuel, 4 mile loop, refuel, 4 mile loop.  Well while this seemed like a great idea, no matter where I turned I had hills, so after mile 8, I split the last 4 in two so I could stretch and refuel. Unfortunately I didn’t quite make it to 12, just short of 11. But after all the hills, I knew my legs got a workout, they were begging for forgiveness a long time before I was finished. Overall it was a 9:43 pace, not bad for my first real hill experience of the year.

Hills anyone?


Monday: 2.68 Miles

Tuesday: Rest

Wednesday: 4.25 Miles

Thursday: Rest

Friday: Rest

Saturday: 3.06 Miles

Sunday: 10.75 Miles

Hills and high school boys may have been my biggest obstacles this week, but overall I’m pretty pleased with how the week went. I know I should be doing more miles during the week, but I think what I’m doing is paying off.  I also made a decision on the Cleveland 10 Miler….and this year I’m going to pass. I’m pretty confident my legs will be exhausted after Colorado and Earth Day Half and I’ll end up not enjoying the race. But it is definitely on the calendar for 2013!

Four more weeks to go!

Platte River Training: Week 10

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Running is such a mental sport, and this week my mind was put to the test. I was lucky enough to get three runs in outside, something I’ve been craving now that its not completely dark outside when I get home from work. I used to semi enjoy the treadmill and could manage running on it every night, but I’ve mentally checked out of it. I can barely run 3 miles without getting bored, I feel like I’m not even moving.

Regardless of my endless fight with the treadmill, when my legs hit the pavement I’m running at a pace that creeps towards 9 minute mile pace. This is such  an amazing feeling. I’ve been stuck in my pace of 10 minute miles forever. Now I know my training is really paying off. I especially noticed this on Tuesday when I somehow found myself at 8:45 pace! I forgot I could even run this quick, and it gave me a glimmer of hope that one day I may find my old college friend, 7:30 pace.

For the most part, this week went well. I was under 10 minute pace for two full runs and half of my long run. I didn’t have any pain in my arch until Sunday, and I didn’t need to use tape. Thursday was my treadmill downer day, but I’m determined to get through the rest of the few treadmill runs I’ll have to do. Sunday was my biggest challenge. I knew I had to do 11, and after last week’s long run, I wanted to make this one better. The first half was great, I had a 9:10 pace (probably too fast for the distance) and the snow wasn’t too bad. About half way in, I started feeling dehydrated and thirsty, Gu helped, but I was pretty sure I was going to get sick a few times. I kept telling myself that this is probably what Colorado will feel like, but worse. If I can mentally push through these few rough workouts I can definitely enjoy those easy long runs….someday.

Monday: Rest

Tuesday: 3.86 Miles

Wednesday: Rest

Thursday: 2 Miles

Friday: Rest

Saturday: 3.56 Miles

Sunday: 10.84 Miles

This week is race week! Saturday is St.Malachi, my first race of the year. I’m a little nervous, because I haven’t raced a 5 miler in years, and I’ve heard it’s a tough course. Hope it’s fun!

And don’t forget I’m running for Team JDRF  for the Cleveland half marathon this year. My race is dedicated to those who are affected by Type 1 Diabetes.

Platte River Training: Week 9

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Week nine and I’m back! This week went so well, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. It’s now down to the final seven weeks. How is race day coming so quickly? My two biggest goals this week were to run without pain, and to create a workout room in my apartment. I started the week with smaller mileage so not to stir up any problems, I also made sure to tape my arch for extra support.

“Don’t worry, I got this.”

The tape worked pretty well. I had a little pain throughout the week, mostly after a long day on my feet, but it didn’t bother my running. I felt confident enough that I’m better (knock on wood) to finally register for St. Malachi. This means there are only two weeks until the first race of 2012!

Monday: 3 Miles

Tuesday: 3 Miles

Wednesday: 4 Miles

Thursday: Rest Day

Friday: Sick 😦

Saturday: 3 Miles

Sunday: 11 Miles (Morning: 8, Afternoon: 3)

A pretty low key week until Sunday. I ran with my childhood neighbor, who was nice enough to go at a slower pace for me. However, he’s been in California for a year and a half, so what better time to catch up than while running….I struggled with this run at some points. I’ve been training alone so I’m not used to going back and forth on paces. I’m also not used to talking and running. Needless to say I had to cut it short to just 8 miles. I was determined to hit 11, so I did the last three later in the afternoon, at a 9:10 pace. Where was this pace earlier? And where did it come from? Training is paying off, it just decides when to show up.

So I survived a week with minimal pain, one goal accomplished. Second goal, I transferred part of my living room into a workout room.

Before 

After

Not much, but it’s a start. And unfortunately no treadmill. But I can be a little more productive in my own living room, instead of the gym with everyone around. Plus, I have the perfect spot for my new bag that I won from Jess and Ellie!

Platte River Training: Week 8

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Officially half way through training for Colorado, and unfortunately this week has been the worst week of training. I took a week off to let my arch recover. My schedule actually worked out that I was pretty busy after work, so I wouldn’t feel like a complete waste by not running all week. Thursday was the only day I got some miles in. I attempted the treadmill and ran two miles, I felt pretty good, but didn’t want to push it.

The pain has gotten a lot better and only happens once in a while, but it’s still almost every day. I’m hoping that with limited pain, this week will allow me to get back to a semi normal schedule of training. I just have to be patient and be thankful this is happening now, instead of the week before the race.

Monday: Rest

Tuesday: Rest

Wednesday: Rest

Thursday:  2 Miles

Friday: Rest

Saturday: Rest

Sunday: Rest

Here’s to a new week of hopefully no pain and many miles!

Platte River Training: Week 5

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Frustration. This is the word I would use to describe my running as of late. Traveling every week has really taken a hit on my body. My biggest concern is that my arch starts to hurt after a few miles on the treadmill, but I’m being smart this time and stopping once I feel any pain. I’m not too nervous yet, I know that my body isn’t used to this. Fingers crossed that once traveling is done, my body will get back to normal.

Monday: 3 Miles

Tuesday: Rest Day

Wednesday: 2 Miles (Stopped short)

Thursday: 0

Friday: Rest Day

Saturday:  3 Miles

Sunday:  Rest Day

I really struggled with getting anywhere close to the miles I was supposed to run this week. I found this shirt, and decided from here on out, I’m going to have positive training.

No Excuses.

Well, it must have worked. Saturday morning I woke up to snow and decided to “brave the run.” I ran my fastest training run yet. There was something peaceful about running snow covered streets in the countryside of Wooster. I had negative splits, and I may have even had a smile on my face. Here on out there will be good training runs. Goodbye negative attitude.

Platte River Training: Week 3

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It felt great to be back in my element and able to follow my training my plan this week. Even though it’s only been three weeks, I’m definitely noticing some changes. I might even be a little fond of the treadmill. I’m also starting to see some definition in my legs, which I know will only make me stronger as my training goes on. I decided that I’ll be lifting three times a week: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. I’m hoping I’ll be able to tone my arms and hopefully gain a little bit of muscle. I’m really happy with using the Runner’s World Smart Coach app, I feel like I have complete control of my training, but I have a plan that will push me a little bit so I can get better each week. Here’s week 3:

Monday: 5 Miles Easy

Tuesday: Rest Day

Wednesday: 5 Mile Tempo Run

Thursday: 4 Miles Easy

Friday: Rest Day

Saturday: Skiing

Sunday: 9 Miles Easy

I had to change my weekend run plans for a skiing day, but it was definitely worth it. My Sunday run was a cold one. Halfway through I couldn’t feel my hands and I was starting to get sore, so I shortened my loop and finished the final miles on the treadmill. So far it’s the farthest run since Columbus. I have no doubt in my mind I’ll physically be ready for Colorado. I’m still trying to figure out how I can possibly prepare myself for the altitude change, but I think that’s something I’ll have to learn when I get there.

This next week I’ll be in Toronto Tuesday-Friday. I’m hoping to follow my training plan as best as a I can. I’m also hoping to get an outside run in so I can get a view of the city. It will be my first time in Toronto, should be very exciting!

Platte River Training: Week 2

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This week of training was interesting to say the least. I knew going in it would be challenging getting all of my miles in, unfortunately I didn’t get in as many as I had hoped, but my body did get a workout. This past week I spent a majority of my days in Vegas. I was on my feet from 8am-9pm, so by no means was I lazy.

Monday: 1.5 miles and lifting

Tuesday: Rest day

Wednesday: 5.5 miles-bike

Thursday: None

Friday: Rest day

Saturday: 4.5 miles

Sunday: Rest day

Luckily the day I flew in and back home were rest days, so I didn’t miss much there. Wednesday and Thursday were the busiest days, and for my own safety I decided not to run on the strip when it was dark. I was able to get a bike workout in one of the mornings, which felt good, I’ll be looking forward to more of these. I’d say it is safe to say I walked at least 10 miles a day, between walking from the hotel, to the conference center, to walking around our booth from 10am-5:30pm each day. I had to cut down my Saturday run because my body was still sore from being on my feet all week. But I was able to catch a nice view on my run.

Beautiful CLE

I’m really glad this hectic week was so early in training, I didn’t have too much to lose. This next week I’ll be home so I’m planning on really pounding the pavement. I also registered for three of my half marathons this week, Earth Day Challenge Half, Cleveland Half, and Mount Desert Island Half!

Platte River Training: Week 1

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The first official week of training for the Platte River Half is done! Two weeks ago I was getting back in to simple base miles. This past week I ran farther and faster than I thought I would this early into training. It’s given me the confidence to know that if I can start this well, there is no doubt in my mind about the 26.2 that will be approaching in 10 months. I also ran my first training run with Gu, and finally got my foam roller. One week down and 15 to go until I’m off to Denver!

Monday: Rest (had to switch with Tuesday after too much holiday cheer)

Tuesday: 4 Miles-Treadmill

Wednesday: 3 Miles (1.5 Mile Tempo)

Thursday: 4.5 Miles

Friday: Rest

Saturday:  8 Miles

Sunday: Rest

This next week month will be interesting and could hamper some of my training. I’ll be traveling 4 of the next 5 weeks, from Vegas to Canada to way down south in Texas. My goal is to follow the schedule as best as I can, but with standing for at least 6 hours a day and a crazy schedule, I can’t promise anything. Sorry feet, but you won’t be happy any time soon.

Happy, freckle feet

Back on the horse

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It’s been almost two months since running Columbus, and I finally took the first steps in getting ready for training. I had originally hoped to get started sooner, but between being afraid of still being hurt and grad school taking over my life, it kept getting pushed back. But now that I’ll have free nights I’ll finally be able to put in the miles, and hopefully get a few miles in before official training starts. I’m using my Runner’s World Smart Coach app to plan my training schedule over a 16 week time frame. I’ve used this app before, and I love it. I’ll also be tracking my training through Running2win. I also want to work on my muscles ( as in creating some)

Starting December 26th, I’ll begin my training plan for the Platter River Half. This is the first half of the year, as well as the first out of state half. No pressure, of course. Here goes nothing!

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
Week 1 4 Miles Easy Rest 5 Miles Tempo-3M@10:02 4 Miles Easy Rest 8 Miles Long Rest
Week 2 5 Miles Easy Rest 5 Miles Speed-2×1600@9:29 4 Miles Easy Rest 8 Miles Long Rest
Week 3 5 Miles Easy Rest 5 Miles Tempo-3M@10:02 4 Miles Easy Rest 9 Miles Long Rest
Week 4 5 Miles Easy Rest 5 Miles Easy 4 Miles Easy Rest 4 Miles Easy Rest
Week 5 5 Miles Easy Rest 6 Miles Tempo-4M@10:02 4 Miles Easy Rest 9 Miles Long Rest
Week 6 4 Miles Easy Rest 7 Miles Speed-3×1600@9:23 4 Miles Easy Rest 10 Miles Long Rest
Week 7 4 Miles Easy 3 Miles Easy 6 Miles Tempo-4M@10:02 3 Miles Easy Rest 10 Miles Long Rest
Week 8 5 Miles Easy Rest 5 Miles Easy 5 Miles Easy Rest 5 Miles Easy Rest
Week 9 3 Miles Easy 3 Miles Easy 7 Miles Tempo-5M@10:01 3 Miles Easy Rest 11 Miles Long Rest
Week 10 3 Miles Easy 3 Miles Easy 8 Miles Speed-4×1600@9:17 3 Miles Easy Rest 11 Miles Long Rest
Week 11 4 Miles Easy 3 Miles Easy 7 Miles Tempo-5M@10:01 3 Miles Easy Rest 12 Miles Long Rest
Week 12 6 Miles Easy Rest 6 Miles Easy 5 Miles Easy Rest 5 Miles Easy Rest
Week 13 4 Miles Easy 3 Miles Easy 8 Miles Tempo-6M@10:01 3 Miles Easy Rest 12 Miles Long Rest
Week 14 3 Miles Easy 3 Miles Easy 10 Miles Speed-5×1600@9:12 2 Miles Easy Rest 12 Miles Long Rest
Week 15 4 Miles Easy 4 Miles Easy 8 Miles Tempo-6M@10:01 3 Miles Easy Rest 13 Miles Long Rest
Week 16 Rest 3 Miles Easy 3 Miles Easy Rest 2 Miles Easy 2 Miles Easy 13.1