Training Week 48
My next race is the Chicago Marathon on October 10.
Running Highlights of the week:
- Another new PDR – 20 miles!
- Meeting up with other bloggers!
- Meeting a new running friend! (more on that below)
- Seeing elk in Elk Grove Village during my 20 miler!
- Hanging out with Erin all day after my 20 miler!
Day 330 | September 13, 2010: yoga
Ha, on Monday, it had been two weeks since I’d done any yoga. Oops! I did the YogaWorks 45-min Beginners DVD.
Day 331 | September 14, 2010: rest
Day 332 | September 15, 2010: 5 m run
I decided to be adventurous and try out the Deer Grove Forest Preserve (in Cook County) since I was nearby running an errand. It was kind of a disaster though. I drove through the park for a long time then it took me forever to find the actual trail. The whole time I was driving I was stressing out about how the park would close at sunset and I wouldn’t get my run in. Do you ever stress about getting your run in at the end of the day? I love running in forest preserves, but as the sunset gets earlier and earlier, it’s a sign it’s time to run in my neighborhood.
The run felt pretty blah. My chest still felt congested and my breathing was off (but the rest of my body felt okay). Bugs kept flying in to my eyes, and that was making me angry and annoyed. Another reason to avoid the forest preserves at night – all the bugs.
I should say though, the trail was heavily shaded and it would be nice to run there on a hot summer day. The trail was more loose and rugged that what I am used to in Lake County, but it was manageable. The whole time I was running I heard animals in the woods, and even saw some deer. It felt like I was in the middle of no where. Maybe I just needed to be around some people. I think I miss running with Steven a bit.
Distance: 5.0 | Start Temp: 70° | End Temp: 66° | Time: 52:09 | Avg Pace: 10:25 | 1: 10:00 | 2: 10:45 | 3: 10:27 | 4: 10:37 | 5: 10:17
Day 333 | September 16, 2010: 8 m run
This 8-miler was so much better than the 5-miler the night before, which is funny, considering the pace was nearly the same. I guess I felt better being close to home (just ran around the neighborhood) and I didn’t look at the Garmin (and couldn’t see the screen on it) except for miles splits.
I forgot to put my knee brace on (had worn it the day before) but I only had a hint of knee (and ankle, wtf?) pain, that went away. Yay.
This run gave me the confidence I needed to tackle my 20-miler on Saturday!
Notice the temps below? It’s almost fall!
Distance: 8.0 | Start Temp: 61° | End Temp: 57° | Time: 1:24:21 | Avg Pace: 10:32 | 1: 10:31 | 2: 10:41 | 3: 10:46 | 4: 11:04 | 5: 10:46 | 6: 10:22 | 7: 10:13 | 8: 9:54
Day 334 | September 17, 2010: yoga
I did the same beginners DVD as I always do. As you can see, I still have a lot of… potential left with yoga! Ha. I took this picture so I could see my Downward Dog form. Uh…
Day 335 | September 18, 2010: 20.1 m run
For my 20 Miler, I decided to participate in the new supported “20 Miler” being held in Busse Woods (about 30 miles from my house). I had originally been thinking about going down to Chicago the next day to do the CARA Ready to Run 20 Miler, but this one was closer, cheaper, and less fuss. I’m happy I decided to do it!
I thought there was a great turn-out for the inaugural event. I got to the run about 45 minutes before start and there were already tons of people there! We had to delay the start a few minutes just so everyone could get their bibs!
Funny story – I had to go to the bathroom before the start. They had porta potties, but there was also a public bathroom right there too. Why use the porta potties when the public bathroom is available, right? Well, because the two stalls in the public bathrooms had no doors and no seats. Yes, you squat over the seat, in the open. And yes, I did it! Ha, I even made a joke to the woman using the other “stall.” This must be a good pre-run stretch for our quads?
As you can see in the second picture in this post (above), Erin and Bobbi were at the run as well! It was the first 20-miler for all of us! We all run different paces, but it was fun to meet up before and encourage one another! And it was my first time meeting Bobbi. What a sweetie! I can’t wait to spend more time with her.
The 20 mile run went all over Busse Woods – I think we did a total of three separate out-and-backs. I didn’t mind them, except for when the super speedy were coming back already, and I felt like I was just getting started!
That’s Erin in the lime green!
The first half of the run went really well for me. Right away, within the first mile, I started talking to a runner with a Champaign Urbana Marathon (and half) shirt on. Her name was Shari and I ended up running and talking with her from most of mile 1-12, then miles 15-18! She was a bit speedier than me, so I used her to pace myself. I would take walk breaks (she didn’t) then try to catch back up! I slowed down a bit at 13/14, and when she saw me at 15 she turned around so we could run together a bit again! What a sweetheart! She had a great attitude and was a blast to talk to. She is running the Chicago Marathon as her first, and we exchanged emails so we can keep in touch and encourage one another. I took a picture of us but didn’t get her permission to post it, so her is a picture of her back as I try to catch up with her over a bridge (she’s in the blue).
Ugh. This is already getting too long. Sorry. That is what happens when you run for so long. So much to say!
So, the first half went really well and I felt on top of the world. I was around a bunch of other runners and that really kept me going and helped me keep the pace up! It made me confident that I will do well (for me) in Chicago with the other runners around and especially with all the spectators!
I started to sort of get tired around mile 13 though. I took an extra walk break at 14 and put my music on. I met up with Shari at 15, and it started to pour rain.
The ominous skies – sorry about the blurry picture!
Oh gosh. Did it ever POUR. And lightening. I was soaked within seconds. It poured rain for miles 15-18, then rained less hard the last two. I could taste salt pouring in to my mouth from my face (weird!). My shoes and shorts got so heavy. I was worried about all the electronics I was carrying, especially the camera. Shari kept up a great attitude, but the rain was really starting to get me down and make me feel miserable. Shari went ahead as we hit 18 and I took my last walk break. And didn’t really feel like I ran for that 19th mile. I felt so slow, like I could barely move. BUT… I picked it up and found my pace again for the 20th and finished strong! Erin even came and ran the last part of the finish with me, holding my hand! I was really happy she did that!
There was a little picnic afterward, so I had a veggie dog, chips and a banana. I rarely feel hungry right after a long run (do you?) but I make sure to eat anyway. Erin and I hung out a bit, then she had to leave to take people home (she carpooled), so I walked back the course a bit to watch Bobbi finish! She did great! Her longest run to date had been just over 13 miles and there she was doing 20! We hung out a bit, then I got in to my car, shivering, with prune fingers and blue lips from the rain. I drove to Erin’s house so we could hang out for the rest of the day (after we both took nice hot showers). We had a blast hanging out all day. It was the perfect way to end our 20 mile adventure!
Overall, my body felt good during the run, except for the bottom of my left foot, which I think I land on funny. I did have a lot of strange blisters when I got home, but I think that is from the rain.
I am excited for Chicago! I think I can do it!
Run stats: I took a vanilla bean GU at 6 (YUM! Has anyone else tried the Vanilla Bean GU?). I got hungry at 10, and ate half of a peanut butter Larabar at 12 and the other half at 15. I also ate a sample pack of sports beans at 18 that were handed to me on course (YUM!). I drank LOTS of water. All of my 4 eight ounce bottles, numerous cups from volunteers, and I even filled up each bottle once and some twice. I was thirsty (until it started pouring). I walked a minute after each third mile (3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18) and took an extra one-minute walk break at 14. I wore the Adrenaline 10s without inserts.
And I wore a new bra! The Target C9 bra like many of you recommended. And… NO CHAFING!!!
As you can see in the photo below, it sits up high, above my chafe marks from the Moving Comfort bra. I lubed up like no other, and am really happy about this bra (so far!!!).
Distance: 20.0 | Start Temp: 62° | End Temp: 64° | Time: 3:45:21 | Avg Pace: 11:12 | 1: 10:46 | 2: 10:19 | 3: 10:51 | 4: 11:03 | 5: 11:01 | 6: 11:02 | 7: 11:12 | 8: 10:52 | 9: 10:41 | 10: 11:14 | 11: 10:44 | 12: 10:45 | 13: 11:43 | 14: 11:57 | 15: 11:07 | 16: 11:11 | 17: 10:52 | 18: 11:44 | 19: 13:23 | 20: 11:39
Day 336 | September 19, 2010: rest
Week Summary: 33.1 miles
This ended up being another funky week for me. I got really sick on Tuesday with a migraine and had to switch all of my workouts around. I don’t really think of running and yoga as a very “balanced” week. I think at this point, I should just focus on feeling good during my runs though! Once I get through Chicago, I can start worrying about strength and cross training.
Besides, I shouldn’t really feel guilty for missing those things – I ran 20 miles!!!
Themocracy
Congrats on the running PDR! The first 20 is such an awesome experience – you are definitely ready for the marathon!
yay! 20 miles! You’re awesome!! you’re going to be just fine for your marathon. I’m excited for you.
Glad the C9 worked (so far) for you. Hope it continues to be comfortable and non-chaffing.
Kim! Congrats on your 20-miler! Way to go, girl! LOL about the bathroom situation… hmmmm….. not sure I would’ve been brave and made the same choice.
Funny about the sports bra pic. Just got new bras, too, and thought about sharing a back view shot, but kind of shied away a bit. You’ve inspired me ~ I’ll reconsider. 😉
YES,about stressing over end-of-day runs. Prefer to run early AM or chances are slim that I’ll actually RUN on schedule.
And yes, I’m hungry after a long run – usually ravenous… but about an hour later.
Counting down to Chicago for you. Will be cheering from Orlando!!!
*hugs*
Thanks Robin. And share those pics! We should all love our bodies for what they are 🙂
I wish I could do early morning runs too. Someday… when I live closer to work!
What a fun group run! I was supposed to do mine with the CARA group but didn’t because it looked like rain–did it today instead.
Downward dog, argh! Your version looks pretty good to how I’m pretty sure mine looks, so take heart! 🙂
Also, elk, how cool is that?
Congrats on your 20-miler!
I don’t want to eat after a long run…I am usually craving something like OJ or other types of fruit but the thought of protein or actual food makes me feel ill.
I usually run after work during the week but I hate feeling rushed. It’s weird how I don’t mind running in the dark in the morning but running in the dark in the evening creeps me out.
Two awesome things: you finished TWENTY miles!!!! and a sports bra that doesn’t chafe!!!!
SISTER! I have the same bra!! Except mine is too small.. 🙁 So it makes my boobs squish up to my chin and my back bulge up to my shoulders. 🙁
Ha ha. I want to see a pic of yours then.
Are you going to get the right size?
20 miles is awesome! And I can’t believe you got to meet Bobbi. Hopefully I will be able to run again soon and get back to races…probably just in time for it to be freezing cold and me not to want to be outside. Next year though. I feel so lazy right now with only being able to walk the dog for exercise.
An elk? I have never seen one in person. Cool! And I am sitting here thinking I didn’t know there were elk in Elk Grove which now sounds dumb to me because obviously there would be, right?
When will they let you exercise again? And I LOVE running in the cold! Erin and I are already talking about doing the Santa Sleigh 5K in December 🙂
I didn’t realize about the Elk either!!! I bet the kids would LOVE to see them. It was so neat!
You did it! Congratulations! That’s really cool that you had a closer-to-home option for the 20-miler. I’m so proud of you and Erin for the PDR, yahooooo!
And you make friends like nobody’s business. What a great skill!
Thanks Mica 🙂 🙂 🙂
I asked Shari a few times if I was bothering her… she said no, especially since her iPod was dead. It’s really easy to talk to other runners sometimes… so many things to talk about!
The Elk blew my mind the first time we passed them. The second time, I was all, “the Elk HAVE to be coming soon. Where are those f*@!ing ELK?” And then I forgot all about them when I saw YOU!!! YAY!!
You totally rocked for checking up on me and running me in. THANK YOU SO MUCH! It was GREAT meeting you!
the Elk HAVE to be coming soon. Where are those f*@!ing ELK?
That just made me laugh out loud at work. Did you get to hear them making noise? It was pretty awesome.
that was the coolest noise! and totally NOT what I expected them to sound like….
LOL, you totally crack me up Bobbi! When I went back, I was wondering where the hell they were too. 🙂 Can’t wait to see you again!
And I only heard them (as Erin asked in her response to your comment) because I heard other runners talking about them and listened on the way back!
did you get your confirmation packet today? I have a BIB NUMBER! too cool….
I was too lazy to check the mail yesterday! Can’t wait to see if it’s there when I get home!
Congrats on finishing your 20-miler. You’ll have to let me know what is your race number, expected pace and what you’ll be wearing for the marathon. I’ll be out there cheering and would love to look for you, too!
Thanks! I will let you know my number when I do! I plan to try to wear something distinguishable… not sure what that will be yet!
CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!! That’s so exciting!
I think you had a great running week and you did really well on the 20 miler! You can totally finish Chicago and finish strong!
The other forest preserve path looks pretty. I agree, definitely a sunny day path.
Not that I know anything about yoga, but I remember one instructor saying that during downward dog your feet should be one foot length apart. Maybe it’s the angle of the photo but yours look a little too close together.
Maybe we can go to that other place next summer.
Thanks for the tip on DD. I have wondered if my feet are the right distance apart! I would really love to take a class and have them tell me all the things I am doing wrong (and maybe one thing right… maybe?).
Congrats on the 20 mile run! Especially in the pouring rain!! I KNOW you are ready for Chicago now. 🙂
I’ll admit, I always have trouble picking what to comment on during these comprehensive posts. Sooooooo
1. So cool about the meetup. When are you coming to PHX? Steven and you would have a great time.
2. Still jealous of your garmin
3. NICE WORK on the 20 miler!! All taper from here!!
4. I always stress about getting my runs in at the end of the day. I’m a MUCH better morning runner
5. Vanilla bean GU. Bleh
6. I still can’t believe your chaffing. Crazy
I know… I never know how to respond when people write a lot, or about a lot of different things… so I usually read the post in reader and start my comment on their blog, simultaneously. I try not to do this, because I know it’s annoying, but at the same time, I like keeping all my week’s workouts in one spot. Blah. I wish I was a concise race recap-er and writer like you. You should do a “tips” post!
We would love to come to PHX 🙂 Especially during the winter. We’ll come right as the baby arrives. Ha ha! 🙂
Which GUs or nutrition do you like? You’ve probably mentioned so sorry for forgetting! 🙁
I ran at Busse once for something different. Its a nice/busy path. I remember the bathrooms being like that! haha. The out and backs would’ve been annoying ! Great job on finishing 20! You will rock the marathon 🙂
Do you live close to Busse? Where do you like to run now?
Thanks! 🙂