Trying to Get Back to Respectable

Giants Run of Champions 5k

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Location:

Bloomsburg,PA,USA

Member Since:

Sep 02, 2009

Gender:

Male

Goal Type:

Marathon Finish

Running Accomplishments:

Half Marathon: 1:34

Honestly, I need to get my PR's compiled.  This is something I started a year ago and then lost my file.  I have them on my old computer but need to dig them out.  There is still more I need to find.

Short-Term Running Goals:

February 1st: Frosty 5k
February 22nd: Run for the Cookies
April 6th: Scranton Half Marathon (with Wes)
July 19th: New York Giants Run of Champions
October: Gettysburg Half Marathon

On top of some races, need to lose some weight to get to a good competition weight and also need to get rid of all my injuries.  I would also like to drop my times

This year I would also like to hit 1000 miles during the year.

Long-Term Running Goals:

I think that eventually I would like to qualify for Boston.  That is something that weighs on me but not as bad as not completing a marathon.  Think I will take the approach of trying to complete a marathon within the next 3 years and then we will see after that.

I also want to keep dropping my times and stay competitive in age groups and get competitive overall.

Personal:

I am 29 years old, soon to be 30 and I have the best most supportive wife (Courtney) and we just had our first child (Isaac) in December.  I ran track most of high school and one year of Cross Country.  I then went to college where I ran for a year on the college team.  Since then I have been trying to get myself back on track with my running, I run more days then not but I have not been able to have one year without some type of injury.  I would really like to get back to being injury free and a competitive runner.

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Miles:This week: 0.00 Month: 0.00 Year: 0.00
Saucony Guide Lifetime Miles: 219.06
Gel-Neo33 2 Lifetime Miles: 20.44
Cortana 3 Lifetime Miles: 46.88
Total Distance
346.42
Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.00

Okay so it has been how long?  Way to long!  I have been trying to get back on the healthy eating track and now I am trying to get back to running.  My foot has its ups and downs now that I have the foot rocker, I try to use that as often as possible and it seems to be helping.  I went to a health fair on Saturday and talked with the owner of a local running shop and he said that he runs through it.  He also made some suggestions for shoes so I bought a brand new pair.  It is a pair of those minimal shoes, they are the Saucony Kinvara. 

I took them for a spin today and foot felt pretty good.  I decided to do every other day at about 2 miles.  I think this coupled with the foot rocker should help some.

Let's do this!

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Tue, Jan 17, 2012 at 20:24:28 from 72.77.118.177

Nice going Steve! Glad to see you back, take it easy and we will both have a great 2012!

From Steve on Tue, Jan 17, 2012 at 20:36:09 from 50.29.199.45

Thanks Wes! How have you been? I am excited to get back. It has been a rough road but glad I am going at it again. I hope things are going well with you, haven't talked to you in a while. What is new?

From baldnspicy on Tue, Jan 17, 2012 at 21:36:21 from 72.77.118.177

Well, both of us are running that rough road. I think my stress fracture is basically healed. The last month I developed a corn between my 4th and 5th toes on my right foot. I thought it was just a long nail on my 5th toe poking the other, but nope... I've been keeping it wrapped with moleskin, but today, I found a gel wrap that makes it almost painless to walk on...and run on!

Were on the road again...

From Steve on Tue, Jan 17, 2012 at 21:40:47 from 50.29.199.45

Sounds rough. I hope that it will heal with the moleskin. Looks like you have a great goal planned, I hope that it works out. I haven't made a plan for anything yet, just to stay healthy I guess.

From baldnspicy on Tue, Jan 17, 2012 at 22:08:40 from 72.77.118.177

It just takes time...like everything, it seems. I wasn't even thinking of starting running again until I saw the training info. No real plan except to get running again and shoot for a May race. How bout you come run with me? :-)

From Steve on Thu, Jan 19, 2012 at 11:23:00 from 50.29.199.45

What race is in May? I might be able to but May is tight, I have possbily a conference in Vegas and a trip to Ireland in May.

From baldnspicy on Fri, Jan 20, 2012 at 00:01:44 from 72.77.118.177

Why the beloved Pittsburgh Marathon! Or, half, in my case. So is River Towns, though, too? Tough choice! :-)

Total Distance
2.29

Pretty good run.  Foot held up.  I keep taking the rocker to work with me.  It is something easy to do while sitting at the desk.  I hope that everything keeps feeling like this.  Hope the foot improves some but it isn't bad, so I will take it!

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.00

About 9:05 pace.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.00

Snow yesterday so I was not able to get out, so I went today.  Pace was slower than the other day but there was snow all over the road and it was somewhere around 8 degrees, maybe colder.  I haven't been that cold on a run since the good old college days.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Tue, Feb 14, 2012 at 19:19:06 from 167.164.3.140

Way to go Steve! It's been colder around here too. I've been hitting the treadmill, but it's not the same. Finally got outside today and although cold and slushy, was a ton better than the treadmill any day!

Got a race in mind or just easing back into it? :-)

From Steve on Sun, Feb 19, 2012 at 17:20:52 from 50.29.199.45

I am trying to ease back into it. The foot is doing much better, but now I have a stomach problem. One of these days I am going to get everything all corrected and back to good form. How have things been going for you?

From baldnspicy on Thu, May 24, 2012 at 12:52:24 from 167.164.3.140

Steve, buddy! Where ya at? :-)

From Steve on Thu, May 24, 2012 at 16:52:58 from 50.29.199.95

Hey Wes! I still haven't been training. Just a few months ago I was having some stomach problems. It turns out I have Celiac disease. So I am trying to get that on the right path before I start running. Now, I am going away for two weeks so I plan on starting on my return. I have a race to run on June 24th at Giants Stadium. How have you and your family been?

From baldnspicy on Fri, Jun 01, 2012 at 15:42:11 from 167.164.3.140

Oh man! Sorry to hear about the stomach issues and Celiac. I'm not familar with that so I'll have to look it up! Hope you're ok!

I have a race next Friday and work life has killed my energy and opportunity for running this week especially, so I don't know I'll do. It will be fun anyways, but I wish I was in better shape and ready for it.

Otherwise, family is doing fine and getting ready for school to end next week!

Hope you have an enjoyable two weeks and let me know when you're back. I'll be looking forward to your race report!

From Steve on Sun, Jun 10, 2012 at 07:11:29 from 50.29.198.72

Hey Wes, how did your race go? Did you get the time you wanted? Are your kids excited for the summer? Any big plans? We should plan to get together for a race this year sometime, I think that would be a lot of fun. Well I am back from vacation now so I am ready to start down the training path again!

Total Distance
2.29

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.60

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.60

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.00

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.60

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.60

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.60

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
4.78

Getting ready for the Giants 5k in 2 weeks.  Plan is to not do to much extra but put in a few miles each day.  Felt good today, ran it in 8:34 pace.  Not to bad considering I haven't run over 4 miles in 12-24 months.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Sun, Jun 10, 2012 at 22:35:06 from 141.0.8.240

Great job, Steve! Nice pace and it sounds like your fitness is still there! Keep up the consistency and you'll do great at the race.

I posted my race report. I did time, nothing real exciting, but it has gotten me back on the path. It would be great to do a race together. Let's chat about which to run!

From Steve on Fri, Jun 15, 2012 at 05:09:35 from 50.29.198.72

Wes, that was quite the report. Still, really good job! Would you be up to doing something in the fall? I will have to talk to the wife about coming out there but I bet we can find a weekend and either a 5k or a 10k.

I am hoping that I can get a few miles in next week early so my legs are not heavy for the race next Sunday. Because my time slowed down significantly Monday!

Total Distance
3.00

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.50

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
0.10

Soccer Night.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
4.78

Tonight I ran this run in 39:14, roughly 8:12 per mile.  That is significantly better then this run last week. I did have a few days off but this is just to get me going again.  6 days left until the race.  I am ready for this.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.00

It was a little laboring today, it is getting warmer.  I ran about 8:45 pace.  Not to bad, I am thinking that getting myself back into training shape won't be so bad.  I really missed the running.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
0.10

Soccer Night

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Race: Giants Run of Champions 5k (3.1 Miles) 00:23:10, Place overall: 257, Place in age division: 51
Total Distance
3.10

This was a 7:28 per mile pace which is exceptional.  I was training/running about 8:30 to 9:00 per mile pace the last few weeks.  My first mile was 7:07, second mile 7:38, and then the last 1.1 miles was 8:25 (roughly 7:39 per mile pace).  I think that for not racing/running hard in two years this was an exceptional time. I look forward to gaining back my fitness (which I am not sure how much I lost), and lowering my time.  I think I will race on July 21st which will be a good test of how I am training.  I also plan on increasing some of my miles. 

For as bad as I have been feeling the past two years, this makes me feel hope and I needed that.  Since vacation, Court and I have changed our attitudes and have been doing more with our life.  I think that is paying off in my running too.  I think today was a major turning point for me and a much needed one. 

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Sun, Jun 24, 2012 at 17:18:44 from 108.117.149.14

YES!!!! I've been waiting for this report! Congratulations on a fantastic race after everything you've been through. That's an awesome time and shows you didn't lose much strength or fitness. No where to go but up, but it looks like you kept yourself at a pretty high level anyways.

Way to go! Keep it up! You would kill a flat 5k...one like the Steelers. ;-)

From Steve on Sun, Jun 24, 2012 at 17:38:57 from 50.29.198.85

Thanks Wes! It felt great. I am looking forward to the Steelers 5k. From where we stand, we are coming out there for that. The only thing that will stop us is some family event that comes out of the blue. I think we are going to try and make a weekend out of it.

I plan on up'ing my fitness some more for that run!

Total Distance
3.00

Not a bad night after a race.  The wind was out and it was cool.  Very enjoyable pace and run.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.00

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
3.00

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
3.00

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
4.00

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
4.78

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.00

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.00

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
3.00

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Tue, Jul 24, 2012 at 06:23:49 from 72.77.110.237

Nice job on the consistency this week! It obviously paid off in the race on Sunday. No crazy high mileage runs that risked injury, but you got out there and nailed the runs. Keep up the great work!

Total Distance
4.78

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Race: Iron Heritage 5k (3 Miles) 00:22:24, Place overall: 39
Total Distance
3.10

Felt good.  It was cooler out then the Giants 5k so I think that helped.  The race was pretty flat.  I had a little problem getting out of the gate but I ran the first mile in 7:07.  The second mile was done at about 7:20 or so.  Glad I ran it, I think the next one will be in August!

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Tue, Jul 24, 2012 at 06:22:01 from 72.77.110.237

Great job, Steve! Races are a great way to see where we're at, and you're definitely doing well! Sorry about the start...what happened? Did you trip over the gate (haha) or was it just congestion?

For me, it's usually the congestion. I don't want to start too far to the front so I'm just in the way of the runners that are faster and needing to get around, but it frustrates the heck out of me to be too far back - having to jog and accept the slow pace until things open up, or "dodge, duck, dip, dive and dodge" to get around people and feel like a jerk.

From Steve on Tue, Jul 24, 2012 at 17:19:05 from 50.29.193.110

Yes, it was the congestion. I cannot believe a race with only 230 or so people can get congested. The problem was we were on a back road to start the race and then we stayed on back roads until we got on a tight trail. It was a beautiful race though. (I like the dodgeball reference, one of my favorite movies).

From baldnspicy on Wed, Jul 25, 2012 at 17:08:49 from 167.164.3.140

Doesn't matter how many people are racing if you're dealing with narrow roads/trails. Great job opening up. You've still got some great speed!

Total Distance
2.00

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.00

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
3.00

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
3.00

Last week there were a bunch of storms which dampered my runs.  While I would normally run in the rain, there was lightning and thunder and tornados.  I didnt feel like being blown away so I decided against training.  I did start to collect my thoughts though and should be debuting in my new training plan either tomorrow or next week.  Lots of fitness is the goal.  Running, core, and strength.  With the Garmin that Court got me for my birthday, I have a renewed desire to run for better times.  I know right now that I have always run for time, but I am going to start being competitive with some of my old times.  I am feeling like this could be a good thing!

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Mon, Jul 30, 2012 at 15:49:52 from 167.164.3.140

Hey, congrats on the Garmin (and happy birthday)! I love my Garmin 305. I collect all the data for my runs and one day I'll actually try and analyize it for more than just pace, routes, etc. It does help a lot, I think, with races I'm running for the 2nd+ times and checking where you are compared with the last time.

I've been thinking about my plan as well and whether I want to focus on a 10k or 5k plan. I'll have to let you know!

Total Distance
3.00

Not too shabby today.  I ran it in 25:03, so that is good.  Tomorrow is tempo run, that should be challenging.  I am excited for a good hard workout.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Wed, Aug 01, 2012 at 15:47:27 from 167.164.3.140

Nice pace, Steve! I'm excited to hear about your tempo run!

From Steve on Wed, Aug 01, 2012 at 20:20:13 from 50.29.195.57

Sorry to disappoint, but it didn't happen today. I had some doctor's appt's and I thought that they wouldn't be as rough as they were. I think I will do this on Friday!

Total Distance
4.00

TEMPO RUN 1 COMPLETE!!!!  1 mile warm up @ 8:30, 2 miles @ 7:25, and then 1 cool down @ 9:00.  The 2 miles tempo was supposed to be 7:30, so I was a little faster.  What a shame, having a better day than you expected.  Glad I got it done, didn't think I would after I tweaked my back last night but it helped make it feel a little better.  I hope I can make it through the 5 miler tomorrow.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Sat, Aug 04, 2012 at 07:34:51 from 72.77.75.33

Good running days are awesome, but feeling better than expected and exceeding expectations always ROCKS!! Way to go!

From Steve on Sat, Aug 04, 2012 at 08:18:10 from 50.29.195.57

Thanks Wes!! I should be ready to go for Pittsburgh. Just want to get a little more HARD training done before.

Total Distance
5.00

15 miles for the week!!!  That is a first in a long long time.  Rough run today, but that is what I get for moving a tempo run to the day before a long run.  The back tweek played a big part in it too.  Oh well it is done and wasn't too slow (9:02 pace).  I will get it back.  Feeling pretty good though.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
3.00

Not a great time today; humid, had the dog; just trying to get the 3 miles.  Tomorrow will be better.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
4.00

Decent run.  Another day of running all over the place trying to hit my mileage.  It was fun, saw some different things and stayed out of the sun most of the time.  I ran it in about 8:28 which is pretty good.  Not complaining about today's run.  Good thing I have off tomorrow, my legs aren't used to this many days of running in a row, but tomorrow is football practice so I will be getting exercise.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
4.00

Tempo Run #2 of training.  This one was better than last.  I ran warm up 1 mile in 8:30 then I ran mile 2 &3 at 7:19.5 and then 1 mile cool down at 9:00.  Last week was 7:25 per mile during the tempo portion of the run and I was having back pain.  I feel like this week was slow compared to last week but I will take a better time.  Getting excited for the Steeler 5k in a few weeks.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
6.11

It was a good solid distance run. I am feeling good.  I think the average per mile was about 8:15 or so.  It felt good, it was strong.  Getting better every day.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
3.00

I ran this in 23:00 flat which is 7:40 per mile pace.  I tried to push myself on a day after a long run to see what I had in the tank.  Tomorrow I will try to take my time.  Paces are looking okay but I want to get back down to training at about 7-7:30 training pace.  Not complaining just stating a goal of mine.  I am happy with everything the way it is.  The run today is definitely being felt in my foot, I will stretch it tonight.  Good day!

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From ACorn on Sun, Aug 12, 2012 at 18:35:10 from 24.2.76.146

Not a bad pace at all. Good luck with your foot, I'm dealing with the same thing. Lots of stretching of the lower legs and some trigger point massage has helped me.

Keep up the great work!

From Steve on Sun, Aug 12, 2012 at 18:54:38 from 50.29.196.135

Thanks! I have found the shoes that I bought have been helping me to stay pretty injury free. They are Saucony Kinvara's. The other thing that seems to help is the foot rocker. I got it on Amazon and it wasn't too expensive. I think I should look into the trigger point massage.

From ACorn on Sun, Aug 12, 2012 at 18:57:17 from 24.2.76.146

I've been looking at that foot rocker on amazon but was skeptical. Thanks for the review, I will have to give it a shot.

Total Distance
5.00

Good run today. 8:15 per mile.  Feeling better then yesterday.  Really getting into the swing of things.  Hope I can keep this up.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Mon, Aug 13, 2012 at 17:49:34 from 72.77.64.243

Great job Steve. Things are definitely looking up for you. Paces are coming down nicely and you're staying strong and healthy! I can feel a strong finish in a couple of weeks!

From Steve on Mon, Aug 13, 2012 at 17:53:50 from 50.29.196.135

Thanks Wes, I can't complain at all. Things seem good.

Total Distance
4.00

I ran a mile warmup, 2 miles at about 14:40 or so, and then 1 mile cool down.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
7.00

Ran this in 8:09 pace.  This was a successful run.  Felt great and stayed consistent.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
3.00

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
5.00

Good run, comfortable pace.  Ran it in 8:06 per mile pace.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.00

I had football practice prior to my run so I did not do a proper warmup/cool down,  I wanted to get home.  Ran the 2 mile Tempo Run in about 6:59 per mile.  Went out too fast on the first mile because I just couldn't hang for the second.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Fri, Aug 24, 2012 at 07:45:28 from 167.164.3.140

Football practice and you still rocked the tempo! Nice job! I'm predicting a sub-22 for you on the Steelers 5k course. I understand they're keeping it the same as last year. Here's a link, in case you haven't checked it out yet: http://www.usatf.org/routes/view.asp?rID=439401

If you look super, super close, you'll notice it's pretty much uphill all the way. LOL

Total Distance
3.00

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
4.00

Started slow but ended all 4 miles with an 8:04 per mile pace.  Good pace for the miles. I am feeling like this training plan has been filled with quality.  Getting ready to make my next plan.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Thu, Aug 30, 2012 at 05:22:27 from 68.28.123.119

I'd say it has definitely been working for ya! Sounds like the shoe change has been a big piece to keeping the PF at bay? I'm excited to see how you do on a nice flat Stillers 5k on Sunday! I'll apologize in advance if the gorgeous scenery and Pittsburgh skyline distract you and you finish a few seconds slower. :-)

Total Distance
4.12

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
1.97

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Race: Steelers Gatorade 5k (3.1 Miles) 00:22:26, Place overall: 239
Total Distance
3.10

This was a great trip.  The race itself was neat, but it did not compare to the rest of the weekend.  I got to meet Wes and his family which was really cool meeting someone that has been a driving force in my training for the last year or so.  We had the best tour guides in Pittsburgh and we saw some incredible things.  There were fireworks after the Pitt game, we got to see a bunch of colleges, the beautiful city of Pittsburgh, and the Incline.  It was a wonderful time.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
3.00

Started a new training plan.  I am looking to do the Run for the Diamonds on Thanksgiving and then a Half Marathon in State College on December 2nd.  This should get me prepared for my newxt training program that will let me finally run a marathon.  I am hoping to complete the Pittsburgh Marathon next May!!!  Time to get this done.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
4.00

I felt good through the run.  I tried to shorten my stride towards the middle of the run and noticed that I slowed down and my hips began to hurt.  After reading the No Meat Athlete program that I bought, they suggested that the way to stay injury free was to get 180 strides per minute and when I shortened it, I was coming in about 150 per minute but it didn't feel natural and made my body uncomfortable.  I think I will try to keep the stride at my natural stride and see how it goes through this training plan.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
4.02

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
3.00

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
6.00

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
3.50

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
4.01

Okay, since I don't give updates every day, I guess I should give an update now because I have some time.  Everything is feeling pretty good.  During some of my runs lately, I have noticed that if I change my posture and shorten my strides, I am getting rid of the pain.  In the same vein the posture change has also decreased my time.  I find that I am picking up speed by elongating my body.  I am not going to complain at this point because it helped two of my more recent problems (speed and injury).  The pacing has been about 7:30-8 for slower runs and then speed it is about 7-7:30 per mile.  The speed work could be a little better but at this point, I am not going to complain about it.

Overall, I think I think I should be good to go for both the Run for the Diamonds and the Half Marathon in December.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Wed, Sep 26, 2012 at 10:51:30 from 167.164.3.140

I think there's something to that 90 (or 180) steps/min. I started monitoring it when I first started getting more serious about running (2010). It was easiest to do this on the treadmill with the clock in front of me. I'd usually just count for 30sec then x2. At first, it felt really odd and seemed like I was taking little tiny steps. It took some time to get used to it and for it to become "my stride." I don't monitor it all the time, but when I check, I'm usually about 80-90/min.

I always feel like I'm shuffling, getting my feet a couple inches off the ground with a short stride, no matter how fast I'm going. I probably look like I'm barely moving along, too. Videos I've taken of myself or photos taken at races seem to confirm that. I've never gotten that awesome running shot where I look like I'm hauling. I look more like I'm speed walking or something. Haha

When I watch faster runners, I wonder how they're hitting 90/min with their feet are kicking up so high at the end of their stride, and still hitting mid-foot at the beginning of the step. It appears to me that the speed really comes from hitting mid-foot and then extending out the stride BEHIND you. I've always thought, they've got to be heel striking more than they "should" to be able to go that fast. But if the RPMs are high enough, hitting mid-foot and extending behind, you get the speed out the back, not stretching out in front.

I dunno...makes sense to me, I guess. Haha

Total Distance
3.10

Today was an interval training day.  I wanted to hit about 7-7:30 pace but instead I went about 5:56-6:20 pace.  The intervals are below:

1:33.7 
1:33.1 
1:33.9 
1:32.3
1:30.1 
1:29.1

I did slow quarter mile repeats in between each interval.  This was a nice idea when I have been used to waiting until the next interval.  The Garmin was fantastic for doing intervals.  I give many many kudos to the wife for a great birthday gift.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Wed, Sep 26, 2012 at 10:54:13 from 167.164.3.140

Sweet splits! I'll tell ya, the Garmin is a runner's best friend. Maybe if I were some elite runner and could tell when I went from 5:15 to 5:10 pace, it would be different, but having the watch is my best running investment.

Total Distance
3.10

This was supposed to be a race but I was A.) not paying to run a race and B.) not going to find a race. 

I ran this in the usual place I do my runs so it was familiar but it was definitely the best choice.  I ran it in 21:51.  This is good but I feel like I could do better.  The best thing about this is that I have a reasonable baseline to use for the rest of this training and somewhere along the line I will need to do a good race before the end of the year to get a baseline for marathon training.  I think I will do the New Year's Eve 5k at the YMCA.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
3.50

Tried to get this one done nice and quick so that we could go to the fair and get X-Mas shopping done.  I ran on the road right outside my house and my foot didn't like it too much. I don't know if it was the rolling hills or the slope of the roadway.  I know where I need to run and that is not right outside the house.  I will need to find a good place for the rest of fair week. 

Things are going well so I cannot complain too much!

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Wed, Sep 26, 2012 at 09:43:05 from 167.164.3.140

I've been noticing some impact on my foot pain and/or lower leg muscle soreness based on the route I've been running. I thought it was the path slant, but I don't notice much of one. Maybe I'm just overly sensitive to it right now while my strength is coming back.

Way to hang in there! Keep it rollin!

Total Distance
4.50

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
4.46

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
3.00

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Total Distance
7.00

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Total Distance
1.85

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
4.51

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Total Distance
0.00

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Total Distance
8.00

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
3.00

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
4.00

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Tue, Oct 09, 2012 at 12:27:53 from 71.182.199.185

Way to keep up the running while you're out of town! Looking good!

Total Distance
4.51

33:54

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.03

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
6.20

45:22

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Total Distance
4.75

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
5.00

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Total Distance
9.02

Long run for the week and it took me 1:09.53.  This is an average of 7:45 per mile.  I know that I haven't been updating regularly and I regret it.  I haven't been able to focus on anything because of the constant attention I need to give to so many things.  I am happy to say that I am finishing the majority of my runs.  This week I got hurt playing football so I was not able to complete my Thursday and Friday runs.  I felt my hip pulling during my run but it started to feel better during the run.  My other hip began to bother me and so did some spots in my legs.  I think today was just an off day which is unfortunate when it was a long run but I got through it and felt good for the rest of the day.  I am feeling like I should do well in the Run for the Diamonds and in the Half Marathon.  I think I have things together. 

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 16:31:39 from 167.164.3.140

Didn't your mama tell you not to play football, you'll just get hurt? :-) Sorry to hear about the football injury and all the things pulling for your attention! Sounds like you're hanging in there though. Nice long run and pace. Not far off the mark for your Diamonds run! Keep it up!

From Steve on Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 19:08:46 from 50.29.206.9

It's over now. No more football this year. I played a little too hard last week. This week I played intensely but not enough to warrant injury. Thanks for the words of encouragement. I am feeling pretty good and the paces seem to be pretty good. Sorry I haven't been in touch to much, I am trying to be better with the blog.

Total Distance
4.80

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
5.00

Not quite sure the time, I think it was something like 8:15 per mile pace. Felt like an awful run, but you need to have these every once in a while.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Sat, Oct 27, 2012 at 14:08:00 from 71.182.199.185

Good job keeping it real! Good job getting out there and getting the miles in.

From Steve on Sat, Oct 27, 2012 at 18:40:35 from 50.29.206.9

Thanks Wes! This week was a little hard. I ended up skipping my long run today because of a calf problem. I am thinking that I have a mild strain. I have been heating, icing, sports massaging and doing everything I can to get it right.

Total Distance
4.50

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
11.00

Calf is still irritated. 1:33 for the run.

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Thu, Nov 22, 2012 at 15:19:58 from 71.182.199.185

Dang that calf! :-(

Total Distance
3.00

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
12.00

Got it done.  Calf is still giving me problems but still plan to Run for the Diamonds next Thursday.  My per mile pace keeps slowing down after mle 4.  Not cool!

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Thu, Nov 22, 2012 at 15:17:56 from 71.182.199.185

Great Job, Steve! Cam't wait for the report!

From Steve on Sun, Nov 25, 2012 at 21:12:32 from 50.29.206.9

Thanks Wes! I put it up there now. Sorry it took so long, lots going on.

Total Distance
3.56

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Race: Run for the Diamonds 2012 (9 Miles) 01:06:10, Place overall: 289
Total Distance
9.00

Run for the Diamonds day!  This is the third time I ran it and quite possibly the best feeling one.  It was not my best time but the half marathon training set me up for success in the race.  I dropped it into a low gear on the hill and coasted up at about an 8:30 or 8:45 pace (need to plug the Garmin in to check paces).  After the big hill, I used the down hills to drop my time.  I was seeing miles under 7 minutes, which is not something I cannot accomplish but the downhill helped significantly. 

The weather was great, a little chilly but by the end of the race in the 50's.  I think that if I was not dealing with the head cold or the recent calf injuries, I would have been much closer to my PR on the course.  Not going to complain, great day and a great run.  Hopefully, I can prepare for next year and get a PR. 

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Mon, Nov 26, 2012 at 09:11:35 from 71.182.199.185

Great job, and right on your goal! with the issues, you did incredibly well and should be super happy! Congrats!

(Edited after reading what I wrote...the Android just doesn't work real well with this site sometimes. Maybe "someone" should write an app for it. :-)

Total Distance
2.50

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Total Distance
2.00

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Total Distance
2.00

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Race: Nittany Valley Half Marathon (13.1 Miles) 01:43:54, Place overall: 139
Total Distance
13.10

This race was something else.  After the Run for the Diamonds, I thought I had hills in control.  WRONG!!!!!  This course was very hilly and the last mile was an average 2% climb with some points being 5%.  That last section was rough and really killed my time.  I haven't uploaded the Garmin yet but I expect to see my miles slow down significantly after mile 10.  For miles 1-9, I suspect I was running around 7:30-7:45 per mile pace if not faster.   

While it was a beautiful day, it was not a good race for me.  The time was my worst of a half marathon and in the end I think I hurt my foot more than what it was from the RFTD.  I went to the doctor Tuesday and he sent me for X-Rays, possible stress fracture.  The shoes are getting replaced and now I am off from running for a few weeks to see if it gets better.  Exercise bike, here I come!!!!  Low impact but high cardio for the next few weeks.  Maybe I will even do some strength training (probably should so I can make things better and stronger).

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From I Just Run on Thu, Dec 06, 2012 at 14:26:55 from 67.79.11.242

1:43 is still a very respectable time. Those type hills, at the end of a race, are brutal! Hope the foot heals up quickly.

From Steve on Thu, Dec 06, 2012 at 18:13:11 from 50.29.206.9

Thanks for the support, and the word Brutal is absolutely what it was! I hate being a debbie downer because the time was good, but for some reason my times don't seem to be good enough for me once I get them. It seems to be the theme in my competitive life.

The foot is feeling better but I still need to get my fair share of biking in!

Total Distance
0.00

10 miles on the bike. 

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Total Distance
0.00

10 miles on the bike.

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Total Distance
0.00

15 miles on the bike.

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Total Distance
0.00

10 miles on the bike.

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Total Distance
0.00

10 miles on the bike. 

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments
From baldnspicy on Tue, Mar 12, 2013 at 19:13:58 from 71.162.1.30

How's it goin, bud? :-)

Total Distance
346.42
Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
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