Usary pass ride
About 4 years ago, I was a hard core blogger. I didn't miss a day of documenting our life, whether is was short or even a long post. Sadly, this just doesn't happen anymore. I honestly don't think it's the time, now I just prioritize things differently. Doug once called blogging and the computer "my boyfriend" He has since labeled "my boyfriend" running. I have to laugh because truthfully they are so completely opposite. However, if you add the hours up in a day I guess I could claim it as a part time boy friend if you really need to label it as something.
my barefoot running shoes
After running 5 half marathons I was told by so many people that I really should try a full. Truthfully, I was scared to death, after all 13.1 miles is way more doable than 26.1. I geared myself up that I can do hard things and registered for the St. George lottery. I was denied. I had mixed emotions, but thought well, maybe it's not my time. As a month passed I began to reflect on my goals and realized qualifying for Boston was on my bucket list. I did my research and discovered if this was going to be the year to qualify I had a good chance. I would be able to be 5 minutes slower (3:40:59) AND be at the bottom of my age group. Two bonuses in my book. I began searching for other Boston qualifiers as well as races on Saturdays (again, not easy to come by). My friend informed me of the Santa Barbara one in November and I jumped on the chance. Without hesitation and anyone signing up with me, I registered for the FULL. As I clicked the button to finalize my registration, my heart pounded with anxiety. I knew I was in for a challenge, and now there was no turning back. Thankfully, since then I have convinced two other of my friends to register. Honestly, I have no idea how people can train alone. I have come to the conclusion I am NOT a solo runner.
My training began on July 12th. I didn't really have a training plan in mind, but found that Hal Higdon best suited me for my schedule and what I had time to do. I am currently doing the Advanced training which entails cross training along with running. I knew I also had to train myself to drink water. This probably was the hardest thing at first, but now I can't even run 4 miles without a bottle in my hand. And yes, I went out and bought an "official" running belt. I thought I would NEVER wear one of those spiderman gadgets and here I am. Other things I learned along the way....
-Any sort of energy enhancement has been my friend. I have become accustomed to taking FRS, sport beans, and Gu.
-Instant breakfast (chocolate milk) is my favorite recovery drink.
- I eat Cliff bars like they are going out of style. (peanut butter crunch being my favorite)
-Power Ad Zero, I love this stuff!
-I have purchased two sets of running shoes (as recommended in Runner's World) my running bible.
-I am even trying some running with my vibram toes (shown above) more like frog shoes, but they really are comfortable.
Monday's are my long running days. Why Monday? Because Sunday happens to be a non exercise day and I need all the energy I can. I won't lie it's been a big challenge living in Arizona running in the heat. We are having to get up at 3:40am in order to get the miles in before it gets too unbearable. Even then, it has been 89 degrees at 4am! The good news? We can accomplish 14 miles and be done before 6:30am.
2.5 mile backside climb
After long runs I do look forward for the cross train days that include:
Monday: At least 10 miles (mileage is now up to 15)
Tuesday: running 4 miles and lifting weights
Wednesday: rest or step class
Thursday: running sprints or doing the bleachers (hill training)
Friday: high impact aeorbics
Saturday: road biking with Doug 20-28miles.
6 weeks behind me, I only have 14 more to go. For the record, I guess my hard core blogging is now a pastime and has been replaced by running. Who knew? Wish me luck!!
