Training Blog: 2008 Walt Disney World® Half Marathon

Week 17 - Day 2

2007-08-07T23:56:00.000-04:00

Tonight I started Run 7 / Walk 1 for the first time. Things aren't feeling any better with the legs since the 10 mile run on Saturday, and if anything they are worse. I'm getting a bit concerned. For the first time ever, I felt tightness in my right knee. Generally all the lower legs muscles are feeling pretty burnt out right now. Wasn't able to keep up to the BPM either on a few regular tracks I listen to when I'm running, so it's obvious something isn't quite right. Here are the results:

Total Distance: 2.55 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 11:47/mi
Heart Rate: 126 bpm

Maybe I need to ice the lower leg muscles again, it's been quite awhile since I've had to do so. Some additional stretching might help too? I'm even considering doing what I did in this previous post, depending on how I'm feeling before Thursday's run. So close to 13 miles, legs don't stop on me now!

Week 17 - Day 1

2007-08-05T23:48:00.000-04:00

I have to say I was hurtin' for today's 20 minute run. It doesn't bother me so much thinking about it though considering I ran 10 miles yesterday for the first time ever. I notice now my left calf muscle has some sort of pain I find hard to describe, other than it is intermittent. I think it is a cramp. Anyway, here are the results:

Total Distance: 1.76 mi
Total Time: 20:00
Avg Pace: 11:24/mi
Heart Rate: 135 bpm

I sure hope I'm feeling a lot better for Tuesday's run, surely it can't be as bad as today!

Week 16 - Day 4

2007-08-04T22:55:00.000-04:00

Holy smokes, that 10 miles was not easy. I can't say I felt all that great from the get go, but the results are on par when compared to my 9 mile run here. I think I stopped twice to take a bit of a break, which included a refill on the water supply in my bottle. Really was feeling low on energy throughout. Starting to wonder how I'm ever going to improve that pace for these long distances! I'd really like to achieve a sub 2:10 finish in January for the 1/2 marathon!

Total Distance: 10.0 mi
Total Time: 2:07:30
Avg Pace: 12:45/mi
Heart Rate: 131 bpm

No hip flexor issues this time, but felt like I had a loss of flexibility as the run went on. I really do need to go and get some energy drinks now for these long Saturday runs. It's on the To Do list for this coming week, I promise!

Week 16 - Day 3

2007-08-02T22:41:00.000-04:00

The run today didn't go as well as Tuesday. Maybe because I pushed myself hard then, and I didn't feel fully recovered today. It was also quite warm when I ran this evening, so I'm sure that contributed to the slower run and the slightly harder workout on the heart.

Total Distance: 2.78 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 10:48/mi
Heart Rate: 137 bpm

Sure would be nice to complete 3 miles in the 30 minute period. The big 10 mile run this Saturday. It's gonna be a killer I'm sure!

Week 16 - Day 2

2007-07-31T23:05:00.000-04:00

Today I started Run 6 / Walk 1 and gee it went well! Best time yet for my 30 minute run. I again pushed myself harder than usual, but now I'm noticing it seems a lot harder for marginal improvements. I guess that's how it's gonna be between now and January. I really would like to be able to run a 1/2 marathon with a 10:00/mi average or less. Surely 9:30/mi can be achieved?

Total Distance: 2.85 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 10:31/mi
Heart Rate: 132 bpm

Interested to see how Thursday's run goes after this one.

Week 16 - Day 1

2007-07-29T21:02:00.000-04:00

Boo ... I didn't end up running today. Not because of how I felt over the last run, but because the humidity was just sooooo bad ... even later into the evening. I didn't want to risk it with the asthma, and my prescription is running quite low. Time to get a refill on Monday.

Week 15 - Day 4

2007-07-28T23:43:00.000-04:00

I have been feeling pretty disappointed with the run today. Although my time and pace where improved from the last time I ran 6 miles, I really felt void of strength and energy through most of the run, especially when I hit the 4 mile mark. Those last two miles where far from enjoyable. Why? I'm really just not sure. Thought I was hydrated enough, figured I had eaten enough of the right things, and felt I was rested enough. Maybe today the only thing giving me trouble was my mind. Ah well, not every run goes as planned. Here are the results:

Total Distance: 6.0 mi
Total Time: 1:10:51
Avg Pace: 11:48/mi
Heart Rate: 136 bpm

Maybe I'll be feeling better on tomorrow's short 20 minute run. I sure hope so.

Week 15 - Day 3

2007-07-26T23:23:00.000-04:00

Today's run was pretty much on par with the last, but I didn't better the previous time and distance. Felt like I was working harder than the last run too. I hadn't been feeling well today either, and didn't eat or drink as much as I normally would in a day. I'll use that as an explanation for the results:

Total Distance: 2.72 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 11:02/mi
Heart Rate: 135 bpm

I'm generally running faster than 11:00/mi, but the 1 minute walk intervals seem to keep me close to or above that 11:00/mi mark. Maybe I'll just have to work even harder for improvement here.

Week 15 - Day 2

2007-07-24T23:49:00.000-04:00

Just back from my 30 minutes of Run 5 / Walk 1. I think this is my best 30 minute pace since I started running, but I really haven't gone back to check. I just don't ever recall a pace faster than 11:00/mi. Here are the results:

Total Distance: 2.75 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 10:55/mi
Heart Rate: 135 bpm

Certainly felt like I had to push myself a bit to keep it under the 11:00/mi mark. I'll run again tomorrow night to make up for Thursday past.

The hip felt much better today having not run since Sunday.

Week 15 - Day 1

2007-07-22T23:56:00.000-04:00

The hip wasn't feeling that good all day today. I was ready to call the run off around 10:30pm, but 11:15pm I decided to head out anyway and give it a go. I managed alright, but the pace suffered a little bit from last Sunday's pace. Here are the results:

Total Distance: 1.79 mi
Total Time: 20:00
Avg Pace: 11:10/mi
Heart Rate: 132 bpm

Hopefully with no run on Monday it will give the hip a chance to get back to where it should be. Let's hope for the best.

Week 14 - Day 4

2007-07-21T23:44:00.000-04:00

Boy am I ever glad I took that break from running on Thursday. 9 miles certainly is a long run to me, but it went very well over all! The only challenge I found was in the last 2 miles where I started to feel a fair bit of discomfort and soreness around the hip flexor muscles in my right leg. It was enough that I think it slowed my pace a bit. Here are the results:

Total Distance: 9.0 mi
Total Time: 1:52:05
Avg Pace: 12:27/mi
Heart Rate: 140 bpm

Actually I think that pace is quite good considering that my regular 30 minute run isn't that much faster. Looks like that pace would also get me under 2:40:00 for the 1/2 marathon which was my initial set goal, so likely I can improve on that a fair bit before January! I though it was impressive that I also burned 1248 calories on this run today as well. I doubt I've ever burned so many in one day before!

Not sure if I should be running tomorrow with the hip feeling the way it does now. Will have to wait and see before I make my decision.

Week 14 - Day 3

2007-07-19T19:38:00.000-04:00

I decided with the big 9 mile run on Saturday, I'd give myself a break today. I'll make up for today's run this coming Wednesday. After yesterday's run, I'd rather feel rested going into the run on Saturday. Let's see if it pays off!

Week 14 - Day 2

2007-07-17T23:52:00.000-04:00

Well I should have known all good things don't last. Today's run just felt terrible! The legs were tired and stiff. They would just not loosen up! Generally felt a lack of strength and energy too. My mind was telling the body to go, but it was like something was holding it back. Weird. So I did a Run 5 / Walk 1 over 30 minutes for the first time and the results sorta stink:

Total Distance: 2.47 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 12:09/mi
Heart Rate: 126 bpm

My last 30 minutes of Run 4 / Walk 1 was even better than this and even managed a further distance. Ah well I think I need another day of good rest and recovery before I run again on Thursday. My first 9 mile run is coming up on Saturday, a big milestone, so I'd really like to be prepared as much as I can.

Week 14 - Day 1

2007-07-15T22:26:00.000-04:00

I wondered how I would feel running today after the 5 miles yesterday. Surprisingly well, and I even stepped it up a notch knowing I would only be running for 20 minutes of Run 4 / Walk 1. It was more work, but check out the results:

Total Distance: 1.87 mi
Total Time: 20:00
Avg Pace: 10:41/mi
Heart Rate: 143 bpm

A noticeable improvement again here if you compare it to the 20 minute run here from a week ago. I'm smokin' hot!

A new challenge tomorrow in moving to Run 5 / Walk 1!

Week 13 - Day 4

2007-07-14T23:21:00.000-04:00

Another 5 miles for the history books and I'm very happy with this run. It went far better than the first time I ran the same distance, so today it's great to see the progress! Here are the results:

Total Distance: 5.00 mi
Total Time: 59.49
Avg Pace: 11:58/mi
Heart Rate: 139 bpm

That's 9.51 minutes off the first time I ran 5 miles with Glenn and Jon at the Nike Running Lounge, almost a month to the day! Over the last 1.5 miles or so I didn't even stop for my 1 minute walks, I just kept running! Everything seemed to fall in place for this run. Nice cool weather, good hydration, no tightness in the lower legs, and the breathing didn't feel exerted. I actually felt a good "buzz" once I got in the door. Is this what everyone keeps running for?

Tomorrow will be a 20 minute run, and will also be the last time I do Run 4 / Walk 1.

Week 13 - Day 3

2007-07-12T23:41:00.000-04:00

Successfully finished another 30 minutes of Run 4 / Walk 1. Improvement since the last run as well, which is great. I'd really like to get under a 11:00/mi pace soon. By race day, it'd be really nice to be under 9:00/mi if I can. Maybe I'm dreaming? Anyway, here are the results for today:

Total Distance: 2.62 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 11:26/mi
Heart Rate: 136 bpm

Back down to a 5 mile run for Saturday, as I ramp back up to 9 miles the following Saturday. 9 miles is only 4 miles short of the 1/2 marathon distance!

Week 13 - Day 2

2007-07-11T23:51:00.000-04:00

I ended up running today instead of yesterday to take advantage of a change to cooler temperatures. Maybe doing so paid off here because I see an improvement from my last 30 minute run. Here are the results:

Total Distance: 2.60 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 11:32/mi
Heart Rate: 133 bpm

Legs were feeling a bit more stiff than usual, maybe from the cooler temperature. Some soreness in the shoulders too, but I attribute that to playing Guitar Hero II, HAHA. I felt it though on the run, so no GHII for a few days. I really need to start thinking about improving flexibility.

Week 13 - Day 1

2007-07-08T23:56:00.000-04:00

Today it was far more warmer and humid outside for my run, which was a challenge for me when it came to the breathing and endurance. I seemed to do alright despite this anyway going by the results.

Total Distance: 1.76 mi
Total Time: 20:00
Avg Pace: 11:23/mi
Heart Rate: 133 bpm

Over the last few weeks, I've also noticed how tempting it is to stop sometimes and take a break or force myself to keep going and resist the urge to stop. I know all runners battle this, especially in the later stages of a run. Sometimes I've overcome that urge to stop and kept going, but other times I've taken that short break even though I know I really shouldn't have. Surely this is something I can overcome. It's not going to help me on the day of the race. Fortunately I've got 6 months ahead of me to work on it.

If there is anything I've learned about myself from running so far, it's the negative thoughts that run through my head that potentially set me up for failure. This will surely be the biggest thing to overcome in the days ahead. I really would like to be that guy who is a little more optimistic in general and keep pressing on towards the goal.

Right now I'm just grateful that I'm still on track with no injuries. Now that is a blessing.

Week 12 - Day 4

2007-07-07T21:11:00.000-04:00

Well as promised, today I ran the 7 miles to make up for a run missed. Today I would have been back down to 6 miles in preparation to ramping up to a 9 mile run on July 21st. Here are the results from Run 4 / Walk 1 for 7 miles:

Total Distance: 7.00 mi
Total Time: 1:25:36
Avg Pace: 12:14/mi
Heart Rate: 137 bpm

Looks like a decent run to me. The conditions were really good as there was a nice cool breeze. For the first time I started to feel some stiffness in my back and hips in the last mile or so. Probably not surprising for the distance I'm starting to get into now. Something else for the body to adjust to I guess! Looking forward to tomorrow's 20 minute run.

Week 12 - Day 3

2007-07-05T23:48:00.000-04:00

Today's Run 4 / Walk 1 also went well, but surprised again at the mileage covered. Wondering if something is up with the triangulation of my Garmin, who knows? To me going by the pace and the amount of time out there, the miles covered should be more than when I was doing Run 3 / Walk 1. Will keep an eye on this in the up coming runs. Here are the results.

Total Distance: 2.52 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 11:55/mi
Heart Rate: 136 bpm

Week 12 - Day 2

2007-07-03T22:48:00.000-04:00

I'm back from the first Run 4 / Walk 1 and it went very well! I really didn't find much of a difference in the change since I was expecting it to be harder, so that was a pleasant surprise. I thought my mileage would have been a little better though from my previous 30 minute run of Run 3 / Walk 1, but not so. Here are the results:

Total Distance: 2.53 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 11:51/mi
Heart Rate: 137 bpm

Week 12 - Day 1 ... Happy Canada Day!

2007-07-01T21:28:00.000-04:00

Well here it is Canada Day and instead of celebrating, I'm out on the streets pounding the pavement. The legs are certainly feeling it today after the 6 miles yesterday, so I'm glad is run was only Run 3 / Walk 1 for 20 minutes.

Total Distance: 1.75 mi
Total Time: 20:00
Avg Pace: 11:21/mi
Heart Rate: 139 bpm

Seems like I've been on Run 3 / Walk 1 for ages now. Things change on Tuesday though, moving ahead to Run 4 / Walk 1. I wonder how much of a change that is going to be. We'll find out soon enough!

Week 11 - Day 4

2007-06-30T22:56:00.000-04:00

Well today was my first 6 miles of Run 3 / Walk 1, having done 5 previously when Glenn and Jon were around. That first 5 miles was a killer, so you can imagine I was a bit worried about this particular run. Here are the results:

Total Distance: 6.00 mi
Total Time: 1:14:41
Avg Pace: 12:26/mi
Heart Rate: 137 bpm

It went a lot better than I expected, but in retrospect the conditions overall where better than the day I ran the first 5 miles. Let's hope it stays this way with the longer runs up ahead. They freak me out a bit just thinking about them!

Week 11 - Day 3

2007-06-28T21:44:00.000-04:00

Out for another Run 3 / Walk 1 this evening. The pace was improved, but the heart rate still lower than usual. I guess that I've been on Run 3 / Walk 1 for awhile now the body has adjusted. Well soon enough it will be Run 4 / Walk 1. Here were the results tonight:

Total Distance: 2.58 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 11:37/mi
Heart Rate: 133 bpm

This Saturday is supposed to be 7 miles of Run 3 / Walk 1, but I missed the 6 miles from the Saturday I was in Newfoundland. So slight adjustment to the schedule and I'll do the 7 miles on July 7th.

Week 11 - Day 2

2007-06-26T23:12:00.000-04:00

Arrived back in Oshawa today, so got out for the Run 3 / Walk 1 this evening. Here are the results:

Total Distance: 2.43 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 12:20/mi
Heart Rate: 132 bpm

Pace slower than the last two or so, and the heart rate is down as well. Guess I just didn't push myself hard enough today. Legs were feeling a little more stiff than usual as well. On to Thursday.

Week 11 - Day 1

2007-06-24T21:02:00.000-04:00

I managed to get out for my 20 minute run today at Run 3 / Walk 1. It was much colder this evening, but I managed anyway. Nice to know my next run will be back home. Never thought I would say that while visiting back home in Newfoundland. Things are never gonna be the same visiting back here in St. John's area again!

Total Distance: 1.74 mi
Total Time: 20:00
Avg Pace: 11:31/mi
Heart Rate: 139 bpm

Week 10 - Day 4

2007-06-23T20:22:00.000-04:00

Today I unfortunately did not get out for my run. It's just been really busy with funeral stuff, family stuff, that I just felt drained. What bothers me more is today was my long run which I really didn't want to miss, so hopefully I can make up for it later.

Week 10 - Day 3

2007-06-21T22:18:00.000-04:00

Well here I find myself down in Newfoundland running a Run 3 / Walk 1 in the streets of Mount Pearl this evening. My Grandfather has passed away, So I flew down earlier this morning. Today most of my time was spent at the funeral home for the standard visitation stuff. That didn't stop me from getting out for a run today though. Lots of memories running the streets around here ...

Here were the results:

Total Distance: 2.65 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 11:19/mi
Heart Rate: 143 bpm

Week 10 - Day 2

2007-06-19T21:34:00.000-04:00

Today I got out for my 30 minute run and moved up to run 3 / walk 1. Still some stiffness in the lower legs from the previous two runs, but it went well. I wish the pace could have been a bit better, so maybe Thursday I can work on improving that.

Total Distance: 2.46 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 12:12/mi
Heart Rate: 148 bpm

Today Glenn and Jon ran with me again which was cool. Getting good feedback there and it's appreciated. The running form and cadence are looking good.

Waiting to see what Thursday brings ...

Week 10 - Day 1

2007-06-17T19:22:00.000-04:00

Today it was a nice break to go back to a 20 minute run, although still a bit sore from yesterday's 5 miles. My sister Carla ran with me this time which was cool. The results could have been a bit better, but I didn't want to push her too hard! She did well though and didn't have trouble keeping up with me.

Total Distance: 1.59 mi
Total Time: 20:14
Avg Pace: 12:45/mi
Heart Rate: 135 bpm

Thanks for tagging along Carla, your company was appreciated. Now I'm looking forward to tomorrow's break!

Week 9 - Day 4

2007-06-16T14:51:00.000-04:00

Today was the big first 5 miles @ run 2 / walk 1. Glenn, Jon and I headed down to the Nike Running Lounge in Toronto to check the place out. At 9:30AM they were hosting an open run, so we came prepared and ventured out for the 5 miles. Here are the results:

Total Distance: 5.00 mi
Total Time: 1:09:17
Avg Pace: 13:50/mi
Heart Rate: 148 bpm

The pace is slower, but expected really. I've never run that distance before. Also a lot of things against me; hot morning temperatures, unfamiliar course, a few steep hills, etc. It was just tough. A good experience though, I needed the challenge and I see the importance of changing things up.

Thanks guys for running with me. You were a big encouragement and motivator when negative thoughts started to creep into my mind.

Week 9 - Day 3

2007-06-14T22:49:00.000-04:00

Much improvement tonight! I was fortunate to have Jon, my Brother-in-law along with me for the run. He's visiting from Vancouver along with my sister Carla, and niece and nephew, Jael and Jed. Jon has been running for a year or so now and is doing really well, so tonight he pushed me a bit and it really shows in the results:

Total Distance: 2.59 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 11:35/mi
Heart Rate: 143 bpm

These numbers are what I want to see for my run 2 / walk 1, so very happy today! Knocked 1:16/mi of the previous pace! Feeling better than the previous run too which helps. It will be nice to have Jon running with me for the next week, and I can look forward to having my other Brother-in-law, Glenn joing us too for at least 1 - 2 of those runs!

5 miles is the goal for Saturday, stay tuned!

Week 9 - Day 2

2007-06-12T23:49:00.000-04:00

I moved up to run 2 / walk 1 today ... and boy did I ever get my butt kicked. Only a week ago I beat tonights pace and distance doing run 1 / walk 1!! Gotta say it feels like a set back.

Total Distance: 2.46 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 12:11/mi
Heart Rate: 136 bpm

The breathing wasn't a problem tonight AT ALL, it ended up being stiffness in the legs and what seemed to be lack of energy and strength. Really started to slow down after the first 9 - 10 minutes in a big way. I'm noticing how many times now I've referred to feeling a lack of energy and strength in previous posts. Am I doing something wrong ... not eating quite right, not drinking enough fluids, not getting enough rest / sleep? Is my body inefficient? Flexibility issue? Were my laces a bit too snug today? Who knows.

I can only assume things will continue to improve like they have in the past. These regular changes in the routine seem to always reek a bit of havoc at first. Surely Thursday will go better?

=)

Week 9 - Day 1

2007-06-10T23:20:00.000-04:00

Just back from my Sunday 20 minute run. As soon as I got out there, I could feel it in my shins from my previous run. About 5 - 10 minutes in I couldn't feel it anymore, I guess that's what adrenaline does to you. Results:

Total Distance: 1.66 mi
Total Time: 20:00
Avg Pace: 12:03/mi
Heart Rate: 137 bpm

Things have been looking pretty consistent the last week or so while being on run 1 / walk 1, which is good. I wonder if I can get below 12:00/mi within the next week?

Week 8 - Day 4

2007-06-09T22:52:00.000-04:00

I'm going to try and forget that I forgot to run on Thursday. Nice slip up there. Well tonight I got out again and it went fine. Here are the results:

Total Distance: 3.71 mi
Total Time: 45:00
Avg Pace: 12:08/mi
Heart Rate: 140 bpm

I think I'll make up for the missed day next week, I'm sure running 3 days in a row will be a good deterrent from doing that again!

Week 8 - Day 3

2007-06-09T22:48:00.000-04:00

Turns out Day 3 didn't end up happening, silly me. I was off on a business trip in Montreal and so caught up in it, that I never even thought about the run while I was away, or even in advance of it.

We'll have to make sure that doesn't happen again ...

Week 8 - Day 2

2007-06-05T23:46:00.000-04:00

Haven't been feeling well today, so I was a bit worried how that might affect my run. I delayed it as long as I could and finally got out at 11:00pm. It was particularly chilly out, so at about the 13:00 minute mark I stopped by home to pull on some warmer clothing. I even needed gloves! Got a little wheezy as well, also likely due to the cooler air. Overall the run was good and am feeling far less discomfort now in the lower legs than ever before. Can't complain there!

Slight improvement on the pace here. At this point in time it looks like I'm on track to complete 5 Mi in about an hour. Looking forward to that day.

Total Distance: 2.5 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 12:00/mi
Heart Rate: 137 bpm

The road to weight loss continues as well. This morning when I stepped on the scale it registered 175.6 lbs, so can't complain here either! Hoping to end up at around 165 lbs. That would be awesome!

Week 8 - Day 1

2007-06-03T23:48:00.000-04:00

Back from the 20 minute run and it went well. Still don't feel I am as "strong" as I should be, although the discomfort in the lower legs goes away faster now, and I don't feel it so much the next day. Being on run 1 / walk 1 for another two weeks should make a difference.

Total Distance: 1.62 mi
Total Time: 20:00
Avg Pace: 12:19/mi
Heart Rate: 137 bpm

I could get used to 20 minute runs more often. In my dreams.

Week 7 - Day 4

2007-06-02T23:11:00.000-04:00

Tonight was my longer run and it went pretty good. Hard to keep up to the previous pace, it was tough. Felt a lack in strength and energy, but I made it. The breathing seems improved which was nice. It has been muggy now with the warmer temperatures which I thought would cause a problem. Here are the results:

Total Distance: 3.50 mi
Total Time: 45:00
Avg Pace: 12:52/mi
Heart Rate: 144 bpm

That is the farthest distance I've covered yet. Tomorrow will be 20 minutes, a bit of a break. I wonder how it will go, we'll find out tomorrow!

Week 7 - Day 3

2007-05-31T23:44:00.000-04:00

Back from another run. Slight improvements even since Tuesday night, but I have to say tonight seemed harder. Felt there was a lack of strength and energy. Maybe I shouldn't be surprised since the last run was the first after a week off, so the body was nicely rested. Here are the stats:

Total Distance: 2.36 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 12:44/mi
Heart Rate: 141 bpm

Saturday will be walk 1 / run 1, but for 45 minutes. I should also pay more attention to the schedule as Sunday's lately are supposed to be a 20 minute run instead of 30. Oops!

Week 7 - Day 2

2007-05-29T23:29:00.001-04:00

WOW I did it! My first of run 1 / walk 1 ... and check out the pace! That has to be my best pace yet!

Total Distance: 2.31 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 12:58/mi
Heart Rate: 147 bpm

Bring on Thursday!

Running Changes Everything - Part 1

2007-05-28T20:34:00.000-04:00

Once I started training for this coming event in January, it wasn't too far in that I realized other things in my life would have to change in order to succeed. More was necessary than just the physical exercise to get me across the finish line.

The biggest thing to swallow wasn't even the running itself, it was the necessary change in diet. You can't start running and expect to get good results from the junk that you're consuming right? So I started making changes ...

My guideline is pretty straightforward. Don't consume what you know is bad for you. Cut out what isn't necessary. Consume more of what you know is good, and in a balanced fashion. It's amazing what a simple principle can accomplish. For starters I just cut out extra calories. I'm just drinking water mostly these days. Skim milk is still on the menu. Juice and pop though I've pretty much cut out all together, they might be a treat on the weekend if I'm lucky. No eating after 7:00pm. Make sure to have a good breakfast in the morning. My fast food joints of choice are pretty much history. I really hope the Wendy's down the road from work doesn't close because of me, I'd feel bad! As for the other places like Kelsey's, Boston Pizza, Swiss Chalet, and Subway, I've just been more intelligent about what I'm picking from the menu. No more Chocolate Eruption Cheese Cake for me, not regularly anyway! It's all about moderation. I think our western society has seriously forgotten what that means.

Well it's been 6 weeks now since the change in eating habits. The results so far? Well when I first started walking around the first week of April, I weighed 194lbs. Today I'm happy to say that's down to a cool 178lbs and counting! That's 16lbs in 6 weeks!! I'm pretty sure there is at least another 10lbs clinging around that I could shed in the next 6 weeks! I'm not missing the old eating habits all that much either, and I can still treat myself from time to time without feeling I'm depriving myself and that's great!

I'll continue with Part 2 another day. Tomorrow is walk 1 / run 1, once again a new challenge. Remember ... running changes everything!

Week 7 - Day 1 ... I'm Back!

2007-05-27T11:42:00.000-04:00

For those that you have noticed recently ... this is my first post in a week. I made a really hard decision a week ago today to take a relatively short break from running to give the lower legs some needed rest and re-cooperation. I have to say making the choice to do so was really stressing me out in a big way. Looking back now I'm glad I did it, and I hope it has paid off.

So I'm just back from my last walk 1 / run 2 and it felt pretty good. The discomfort I had been feeling the last week of running has subsided significantly ... for now anyway. After the 30 minutes I felt like I could have gone for another 15. Also, 10 minutes in my Garmin died so I have no stats to post. Looks like the battery hadn't been fully charged, but I'll be more prepared for Tuesday. I didn't have a watch on either, so I did my best to approximate the walk 1 / run 2 based on the course I usually run. A new challenge coming on Tuesday ... walk 1 / run 1.

=)

Going to post again tomorrow, just on a few other things I want to share. Stay tuned!

Week 6 - Day 4

2007-05-19T23:15:00.000-04:00

Today's run was pretty good. Lower legs muscles are sore even though I haven't been out since Thursday evening. It would be great by the time a running day came around that the legs would feel rested. Unfortunately they don't, and I'm wondering if it's always just going to be this way. I can always dream! The sleep schedule seems to have been thrown off lately, and I've noticed now that's affected my eating a bit, so this could all be contributing to what I see as a slow recovery from the previous run. Who knows. Here are today's stats:

Total Distance: 3.32 mi
Total Time: 45:00
Avg Pace: 13:32 /mi
Heart Rate: 140 bpm

I made a comment in a previous post about reaching 12:50 /mi by Sunday before I move on to run 1 / walk one. I'm thinking that might have been a bit ambitious. I guess we'll see for tomorrow's run.

Week 6 - Day 3

2007-05-17T23:49:00.001-04:00

Once I got out for my run 1 / walk 2 this evening, I just felt I needed to back off on the pace. The legs were feeling uncomfortable right away compared to the last several starts. The last two nights I didn't sleep so well either, so that likely could have contributed to the discomfort as the body wasn't fully rested (nor is it now). After this post, I'm looking forward to putting a bit of ice on them before hitting the sack! Here are the stats:

Total Distance: 2.16 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 13:56 /mi
Heart Rate: 132 bpm

The pace is near what I accomplished with run 1 / walk 3, but that's OK with me. Saturday can be a day to push a bit harder again. Looking forward to the long weekend as well, Monday is a holiday!

Week 6 - Day 2 ... It's Wet Out There!

2007-05-15T23:33:00.000-04:00

Did I ever pick a bad time to run today. I was out there for about 12 minutes and the rain started to come down. Well what do you do when this happens? You don't have much of a choice other than keep running! As you can see the results are good, but thought I would have hit just under the 13:00 mark. I don't see why an improvement to 12:50 by this coming Sunday couldn't happen?

Total Distance: 2.28 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 13:04 /mi
Heart Rate: 146 bpm

The heart rate is back up. I also have to say the breathing got a fair bit harder than I would have liked. I got wheezy. My lung capacity felt like it was cut in half ... sorta like breathing from 1L pop bottles instead of 2L. It's like you know the capacity is there, it just isn't being used to its full potential. Your body is screaming for more oxygen, but you can't get enough in. It's harder to breath out than it is to breath in. There is no way I could have a normal conversation while running, my lungs are working too hard!

The concern here comes from the fact that I'm asthmatic. I'm really starting to test the waters now with the change to run 1 / walk 2. Each 2 minute walk break didn't seem to be quite enough time to catch my breath. Being asthmatic is no reason to quit or say "I can't do this" either, the key is just to make sure my asthma symptoms are under control. So is it under control? I'm not sure to be honest. I did take a puff or two on the run and it helped a bit, but not as much as I expected. I've never pushed myself this hard before ... or it has just been a very long time. A visit to the family doctor might be a good idea though ... sorta let him in on what I've been up to, HAHA. Maybe he'll have some suggestions.

Thursday here we come!

Week 6 - Day 1

2007-05-13T23:31:00.000-04:00

Hard to believe today is the start of week six! Looking back now you can certainly see progress which is cool.

I've been feeling soreness in the lower legs since I was out yesterday. Thinking that giving the ice pack the go again today would have been beneficial, but I didn't bother. Just to make things clear that I'm not complaining here, I'm just keep track of how the body's feeling from all this punishment I'm putting on it! Here are the results:

Total Distance: 2.18 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 13:46 /mi
Heart Rate: 129 bpm

Small improvements again wish is great! I have to say the legs are bothering me even more now than before the run. Shouldn't a day be enough time to feel "recovered" from the last run? Sure hope I'm feeling stronger by Tuesday night, after all I'm moving to run 1 / walk 2!

Week 5 - Day 4

2007-05-12T23:13:00.001-04:00

Tonight I got out for my 45 minutes of run 1 / walk 3. It was much cooler out today, so after the first 15 minutes I made a quick pit stop for some warmer clothes. I managed to improve on the pace a bit again, but when I got to the last 8 minutes or so I was starting to feel like I had run out of gas.

Total Distance: 3.23 mi
Total Time: 45:00
Avg Pace: 13:57 /mi
Heart Rate: 135 bpm

Tomorrow will be the last run 1 / walk 3. Tuesday I will move on to run 1 / walk 2. I'm getting nervous thinking about it already.

Week 5 - Day 3

2007-05-10T23:49:00.000-04:00

Tonight felt like a good run / walk. Tightness in the lower legs, specifically the shins was far less ... so almost getting close to enjoyable now. Maybe the ice after the last time out did the trick.

Total Distance: 2.12 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 14:08 /mi
Heart Rate: 130 bpm

As you can see my distance was farther, my pace was faster, and my heart rate was a little lower than Tuesday. My breathing was better. I've improved from Sunday which was on flatter terrain. The body is adjusting.

Progress! YEAH!!

Week 5 - Day 2

2007-05-08T23:46:00.000-04:00

Went out late again for my run tonight. It's just cooler outside and the roads are less busy. I'm noticing more now after my run in Guelph that the roads and trails around my house in Oshawa aren't so flat. It shows in my results for today, but not a big difference.

Total Distance: 2.06 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 14:36 /mi
Heart Rate: 132 bpm

Sure did feel tightness in the lower legs again tonight though. Mostly in the shin area, especially the left shin. I even thought I'd put them on ice for a little while after I got home, surely it couldn't hurt. I also realized after looking at the training schedule that I moved to run 1 / walk 3 a day early. Call me a keener.

Week 5 - Day 1

2007-05-06T23:42:00.000-04:00

Instead of traveling back to Oshawa last night, I ended up going to Guelph to visit a bunch of friends. Again, things have been changed up a bit for running conditions. Today the goal was to move from run 1 / walk 4 to run 1 / walk 3. I went out later in the evening around 10:30pm and did most of the running along Gordon Street (old Highway 6). The big difference here is the roads are very flat, and I think it shows here in the following stats:

Total Distance: 2.12 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 14:10 /mi
Heart Rate: 137 bpm

That's a fair amount of improvement in my eyes. Knocked over a minute off my pace! Goes to show what inclines can do to your stamina. My breathing was much improved in this run. There is still some tightness in the legs, but I suspect going by previous runs it will slowly diminish (so I hope). I was quite happy with the run tonight!

Week 4 - Day 4

2007-05-05T17:10:00.000-04:00

Today's run got changed up from the norm. I've been out of town since last night visiting my sister Sherri and nephew Jonah here in Cambridge, so I ran in some unfamiliar territory. On top of that, my run 1 / walk 4 was over a 45 minute period. In this area of Cambridge, there aren't very many flat roads so that made things a little more challenging. I ended up doing laps around Sterling McGregor Crescent. More hills and slopes than I would have liked, but managed anyway. Here are the stats:

Total Distance: 2.90 mi
Total Time: 45:00
Avg Pace: 15:30 /mi
Heart Rate: 139 bpm

While I was running, Sherri and Jonah went to the play ground on the same road and waited for me to finish and meet up with them. Tracy and Miles went along with them too. Anyway, today's run was pretty good. I found the breathing a little more challenging. The tightness in the legs wasn't to bad which was a bonus.

Tomorrow is back to 30 minutes, but it will be run 1 / walk 3.

Week 4 - Day 3 ... Survivor Guy

2007-05-03T20:54:00.000-04:00

Started today with a 5 minute warm-up on a stationary bike and then spent some time stretching. Once I was outside the iPod started pumping some beats from PODRUNNER podcast. The first 20 minutes felt better than Tuesday, but was feeling pretty tight again by then in the lower legs. Rather than give up there, I compromised by taking a 5 minute break and did some minor stretching to loosen up. This seemed to make all the difference and was able then to finish the last 10 minutes. Not only that, I added an extra 1.5 minutes of running on the end which wasn't included in the following stats:

Total Distance: 1.93 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 15:32 /mi
Heart Rate: 134 bpm

Today, you can call me SURVIVOR GUY.

=D

Week 4 - Day 2

2007-05-01T22:00:00.000-04:00

Today the running started. The soreness I was feeling in my lower left leg yesterday is now gone, so that was a relief.

I managed to do 4 sets of run for 1, walk for 4 (not including the last walk for 4). After the 4th set of run for 1, the lower legs were massively tight and cramped, and I was starting to feel pain toward the base of my lower right leg at the back. I had to stop. There was no other option. If I had pushed any further, I am almost certain I would have sustained an injury. Once I had stopped, I noticed it was virtually impossible to raise my toes and try and point them towards the sky. That's just how tight the shins were. So instead of being out there for 30 minutes, it was more like 16.

Total Distance: 1.05 mi
Total Time: 16:06
Avg Pace: 15:18 /mi
Heart Rate: 136 bpm

Disappointed? Yeah I am. I still think my attitude is in the right place though ... I want this to work. I want this to happen.

After getting home, I hopped on the web looking for more information about stretching pertaining to running. I learned I need to be stretching ALL of the right muscles used when running, not just a few of them. They would be as follows:

1) Calves
2) Hamstrings
3) Quadriceps
4) Groin
5) Hip Flexors

I was really only stretching calves and quadriceps up until now. Also the information stated that running creates a slight muscular imbalance in the legs as the hamstring and calf muscles develop at a faster rate than the quadriceps and shins. The solution?

WEIGHT TRAINING HELPS ADDRESS THE IMBALANCE

I alluded to doing strength training back in early April, but I have yet to do any thus far. It seems to be a necessity at this point. I'm seriously out of shape and that's a reality. It can be fixed though. I really am starting out from scratch here. It has been years since I did any type of physical activity on a regular basis.

As for Thursday's run ... I'm at a bit of a loss as to what I should do. At a minimum I should at least walk like I've done up until now. Shouldn't I be able to walk at a fast pace without discomfort first before moving on to running? I'm just not sure ... but I want to keep moving ahead. I have a goal I intend to achieve.

Suggestions?

ps. Thanks John and Glenn for your recent tips and encouragement. It is most appreciated.

Week 4 - Day 1

2007-04-29T23:48:00.000-04:00

My lower left leg was feeling a bit sore all day today, so I put off the walk as long as I could. I didn't get out until 11:00pm. The walk was OK, again feeling the same discomfort since the day I started all of this. Honestly it bothers me a bit as I ask myself where is the progress after 3 weeks? I guess it is in there somewhere, I just don't see it. Maybe someone will have to point it out to me.

Total Distance: 1.67 mi
Total Time: 30:00
Avg Pace: 18:01 /mi
Heart Rate: 115 bpm

Looking forward to the break tomorrow. Tuesday things get nasty. Stay tuned ...

Week 3 - Day 4 ... Part B!

2007-04-28T23:55:00.000-04:00

Had a good time bowling tonight at the birthday party, although my score wasn't the greatest! Most everyone went to Apple Jack's for dessert afterwards. I ended up having a strawberry smoothy and a piece of chocolate cake.

By the time I got home I was feeling pretty guilty. I've really been trying hard to watch what I eat since I started this training. So what did I do? I strapped on the runners again! After feeling bummed about the results of "testing the waters" earlier in the week ... I even gave that another try and successfully completed 4 sets of run for 1, walk for 4! It didn't feel so bad either, although the in between walks were a bit slower than normal.

Total Distance: 1.1 mi
Total Time: 20:00
Avg Pace: 16:01 /mi
Heart Rate: N/A

I forgot to strap on the heart monitor, so as you can see that info wasn't available.

Since I'll have to do run for 1 and walk for 4 on Tuesday for 45 minutes, I'll go back to the normal schedule of 30 minutes walk tomorrow. Monday will be a needed break before the real stuff starts on Tuesday!

Week 3 - Day 4

2007-04-28T17:19:00.000-04:00

Just back from the 60 minute walk. Still some tightness going on. Annoying. I even spent way more time stretching today, so I think that helped a bit. I'm wondering if I'm also tying my laces a bit too tight. I loosened them up a bit about 15 minutes in and that felt better, more so the left side than the right. Here are the results.

Total Distance: 3.29 mi
Total Time: 1:00:00
Avg Pace: 18:48 /mi
Heart Rate: 117 bpm

I'm going bowling tonight as well for the birthday party of a friend, so lots of exercise today.

Country Music Marathon - Nashville, TN

2007-04-28T15:11:00.000-04:00

Well I had some family and friends running in the Country Music Marathon down in Nashville, TN. today. My brother-in-law Glenn ran the full marathon and his sister Krista ran the 1/2. Glenn's band mates Jason Germain and Jeremy Thiessen (of Downhere) ran the full, as well as Jeremy's wife Erin who ran the 1/2 with Krista. Last but not least Dave Lewis, the band's sound guy also ran the full. Great to see all of you guys participating!

Full Marathon:

Glenn Lavender - 3:40:01
Dave Lewis - 4:24:26
Jeremy Thiessen - 4:48:08
Jason Germain - 4:58:54

Half Marathon:

Krista Lavender - 2:46:24
Erin Thiessen - 2:46:24

Congrats to all of you for the hard work you put into training!

Glenn's other sister, Tracy, Dave's wife, Jess, and Jason's wife, Heather were all marathon water volunteers too! I'm sure your support was appreciated!

I feel inspired enough now to get ready and head out myself! I've got a 60 minute date with the pavement.

Week 3 - Day 3

2007-04-26T22:05:00.000-04:00

Well today is what I would consider a bit of a disaster. I thought I would try and "test the waters" ... so at 10 minutes into the walk I started a slow run. About a minute later I stopped and never recovered after that. The same tightness came on strong and there was enough discomfort that when I hit the 20 minute mark, I didn't go any further. Man my lower legs where stiff ... can they really be this bad? Here are the stats:

Total Distance: 1.05 mi
Total Time: 19:15
Avg Pace: 18:16 /mi
Heart Rate: 115 bpm

This coming Tuesday I'm supposed to start running for 1 minute, followed by walking for 4. Then I repeat that over 30 minutes. I'm certainly dreading it now after this evening ... but I'll be out there on Tuesday attempting it anyway!

Week 3 - Day 2

2007-04-24T20:19:00.000-04:00

Well this evening was a pretty good walk. I thought I'd feel it more than I did, and it wasn't as bad as I thought. Back into the pace where I'd like to be. Still some minor discomfort in the usual places. I look at my different walks in comparison and all I think is inconsistency. Here are the stats:

Total Distance: 1.78 mi
Total Time: 31:21
Avg Pace: 17:39 /mi
Heart Rate: 115 bpm

Oh and I've failed to mention that including today, my Mother has tagged along for the previous two walks. Props to Mom for thinking about her health too!

Week 3 - Day 1

2007-04-22T19:12:00.000-04:00

Went out for the 30 minute walk before supper. It pretty much felt like Tuesday again ... discomfort! Felt really tight and stiff about 5 minutes in and this continued to the end. I stretched before-hand and during, and it just didn't make a difference. So I was below pace where I would have liked to be. I'm assuming walking two days back to back probably contributes to a result like this as well.

Total Distance: 1.66 mi
Total Time: 30:12
Avg Pace: 18:09 /mi
Heart Rate: 116 bpm

I'm glad I don't have to walk tomorrow. Hopefully with Monday being a break, Tuesday will be better.

Week 2 - Day 4

2007-04-21T17:58:00.001-04:00

Just got back from my 60 minute walk. I was a little bit uptight before heading out. In the back of my mind I was thinking about how crappy I felt on Tuesday while out for my 30. Today went very well though and I kept up a good walking pace beating last Saturday's 60.

Total Distance: 3.44 mi
Total Time: 1:01:41
Avg Pace: 17:57 /mi
Heart Rate: 120 bpm

Feels good to see the improvement. Let's see if I can set a best for my 30 tomorrow!

Week 2 - Day 3

2007-04-19T23:38:00.001-04:00

Today after work I stopped by Dave Hipperson's place in North York. We were roommates during my Laurier days! We probably haven't seen each other in almost in 10 years! It was nice to hang out and talk about old times. Well Dave came out with me on my walk. The pace was slower, but we walked longer than 30 minutes and we went a further distance. The legs didn't bother me like Tuesday, so that was a relief. Maybe it was the pace and another days rest? I didn't use my heart rate monitor today either.

Total Distance: 2.32 mi
Total Time: 46:34
Avg Pace: 20:03 /mi
Heart Rate: N/A

Sorry to keep you waiting Sherri!

Week 2 - Day 2

2007-04-17T19:42:00.000-04:00

Well I'm just back from my walk and I can't say I enjoyed it that much. I stretched and all, but a few minutes after heading out my legs felt like bricks and it never got better after that. The strength just didn't seem to be there and I'm not sure why. It was a fight to keep up a decent pace and all I was feeling was tightness and burn. Maybe I pushed too hard on Sunday's walk. I didn't sleep the greatest last night either, so maybe that contributed in a negative way. I've been eating well though and getting in plenty of fluids. Here are today's stats:

Total Distance: 1.66 mi
Total Time: 30:41
Avg Pace: 18:32 /mi
Avg Heart Rate: 118 bpm

Let's hope Thursday turns out different than today.

Week 2 - Day 1

2007-04-15T21:37:00.000-04:00

I was a little late heading out for my walk today, but I got out there none the less. Headed out at about 8:45pm and it was dark, so I stuck to the sidewalks under the cover of street lights rather than the dark path. Here are the stats for today:

Total Distance: 1.72 mi
Total Time: 30:13
Avg Pace: 17:32 /mi
Avg Heart Rate: 136 bpm

Pushed myself a bit on this 30 minute walk, and I think it shows compared to Saturday. Tomorrow should be a nice break before Tuesday.

Week 1 - Day 4

2007-04-14T18:13:00.000-04:00

I took the Garmin Forerunner out for my 60 minute walk. My mother tagged along with me again which was nice. The lower right leg was much better today than the previous 3 training days. Here are the stats from today:

Total Distance: 3.58 mi
Total Time: 1:08:53
Avg Pace: 19:14 /mi

Heart rate isn't included here as I didn't have the heart rate monitor directly to the skin as instructed, so the results were wrong. My Total Time and Average Pace were likely inaccurate as the device didn't automatically stop the timer when I came to intersections. I've changed the setting to do so, and will stick to my regular off-road path tomorrow to avoid stopping altogether. This is what I get for not reading the owners manual.

So nothing impressive here overall of course, but the less discomfort in my right leg is progress!

The Garmin Has Arrived

2007-04-14T16:17:00.000-04:00

My Garmin Forerunner 305 arrived at work yesterday via Purolator. Being the techie guy that I am, this afternoon I downloaded and installed the most up-to-date firmware and software for the device as follows:

PC Software:
WebUpdater Ver. 2.4.1
Training Center For Windows Ver. 3.2.3

Device Software:
Forerunner 305 Ver. 2.60

Device Firmware:
GPS Chipset Ver. 2.90

Keep your firmware and software up-to-date for best operation and accuracy!

Week 1 - Day 3

2007-04-12T20:58:00.000-04:00

Still on track with the training and another 30 minutes down in the history books. Still some tightness in the lower right leg, but hey it isn't holding me back. There, short and sweet.

60 minutes on Saturday, here I come!

Garmin Forerunner 305

2007-04-11T15:13:00.000-04:00

In a previous post I made a comment about acquiring a Garmin device to keep better track of my distance, pace, calories burned, & heart rate. Well I started looking around on the web and found a great deal on the Forerunner 305.

If I were to head over to my local Running room, it retails there for $409.00! That's not cheap!! I was able to get it at GPScity.ca for $334.95. On top of that I don't have to pay provincial taxes because they are located in Alberta, and Garmin is also offering a $50 US rebate if purchased before May 14, 2007. So in the end I get it for $277.95 before tax and shipping. Still not cheap, but that's a considerable savings!

I should have it before the end of the week, so when it arrives you'll start seeing some proper stats here regarding my training!

Week 1 - Day 2

2007-04-10T20:03:00.000-04:00

I just completed another walk and this time my Mother tagged along. We didn't take the same route that I have on the previous two walks, so I can't be certain of the distance traveled.

It seems my lower right leg is still bothering me, and feels as if the muscles are tightening up or are not stretched? I did stretch today before heading out. Why only the right leg and not the left as well? It isn't the calf muscle or achilles tendon either, it's more the muscle(s) or tendon(s) on the outer right side and over towards the front. This worries me a bit as what I describe could possibly be explained here as shin splints. Maybe it's just because I've been inactive for so long. Suggestions from any experienced runners out there?

Well 35 more minutes down and the discomfort isn't turning me off yet. Let's hope it goes away in the next few weeks ...

Bring on Thursday!

The Training Has Begun!!

2007-04-09T22:56:00.000-04:00

Well we are getting pumped for Disney. Mark has started his training and so has my sister Tracy. I'm pretty sure my other sister Krista is in too. I am quite excited and proud of the fact that so much of my family has taken steps to improve their physical health. Just the fact that they get outside and do something a few times a week is awesome!

If you want to join us in this adventure let us know in the comments and we'll talk about posting Mark's training schedule. He is starting from absolute scratch as of two days ago and this whole month all he will be doing is walking. So c'mon!! Join us. Let's have a big old party down in Disney in January. You need to move quick though since the half marathon fills up fast! It's already at 65% capacity. Follow the link in the sidebar for more details.

Hopefully see you there!!!

Glenn

Week 1 - Day 1

2007-04-08T16:52:00.000-04:00

For those of you reading this blog who are not familiar with this type of training, it's going to be happening 4 days a week; Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. For the month of April, the first 3 days of training out of the 4 will be 30 minute walks. The 4th day of training (Saturday) will be 60 minute walks. During the off days I hope to do some strength training, so stay tuned for info on this as I work out the details.

For my 30 minute walk today I had picked up the pace a notch since I hit the 1 mile mark at 15 minutes. I probably over did it a bit though as from that point on I felt increased stiffness in my lower right leg. It wasn't painful, although it came pretty darn close! I had to slow things down, so the walk ended up being 35 minutes instead.

It looks like I'll need something like a Garmin Forerunner once the actual running starts in May. Then it will be much easier to accurately track distance travelled, speed, etc. So I covered 2 miles today that was still above pace from Saturday's 60 minute walk. Monday should be a nice break until my next walk on Tuesday.

Life Changes

2007-04-07T15:31:00.000-04:00

I've registered for the half marathon at Disney and started my training TODAY! I walked 1 hour and traveled a distance of 3.1 miles. Felt some ever so slight tightness in the calves and shins (didn't stretch before hand). I also felt a bit of numbness in my left big toe just after the 1/2 way mark. Loosened the laces a bit which was an easy fix. Thanks to Glenn and Sherri for tagging along, the company was great!

The month of April will only be walking and the running won't start until May. The training schedule has been planned out (thanks Glenn) right up to Marathon time.

Hopefully in 9 months from now, I'll be a new man! Tag along with me here at my blog and let's see where this journey leads!

--------------------
Gender: Male
Age: 32 years
Height: 5' 11"
Weight: 194 lbs.
Max Heart Rate: 186 bpm