Fitness Mamas

Knock, knock!

2010-03-02T16:13:00.000-07:00

Hi girls!

I decided it was time to start my own training blog. I am training for the Salt Lake Marathon this April and writing all about it in my new blog. Just thought I would post it here so you can follow me on my journey, if you want ;) I'm also looking into volunteering for the Ogden Marathon in May, if anyone would be interested in doing that, we could do it together, it would be fun. Let me know.

Are you planing to do any races this year? Hope you are all doing well.

Wasatch Back Ragnar Relay 2010

2009-12-28T15:27:00.001-07:00

Hi friends. Hope you all have had a wonderful Christmas. I know my family and I did.

The new year is approaching and with it we'll find ourselves looking for resolutions and goals for the new year to come. One of mine will be to run the Wasatch Back Ragnar Relay in June. As you know, I did this last year and it was a blast! I want to do it again this year. So this is an invitation for you to join me and 10 more team members (12 team members total) , whom I have not found yet, in this adventure. Trust me, you will love it!

Wasatch Back Relay is about a 12 member team to run 188 miles from Logan to Park City. We each get 3 turns or legs, each vary from 3 to 8 miles . There is always a runner on the road and it takes about 24+ hrs to complete, leaving little time for sleep.

I'm giving this a try. I know there's more crazy people out there who are always looking for others to be crazy with (you'd be surprised). And the best thing is you do not have to be an experienced runner to do this, I know I'm not!

I do not know 11 other runners, but I know a few and you know another few. Put them together and voila! We got ourselves a team!

Registration is limited. Who is in?

Here are some fun links to the Wasatch Back Relay series if you are not familiar with it.

http://www.ragnarrelay.com/wasatchback/index.php

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hfE170m2bok&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BBEs-wTRthM&feature=fvw

Wasatch Back

www.ragnarrelay.com

Ragnar Relay Series - national running relay races. Races are ran in teams of 6 or 12 and are distances close to 200 miles.

Yesterday's run

2009-12-12T08:12:00.003-07:00

Made it out for another 30 minute run yesterday. It was another preset program, but it was hard! Not sure on mileage, speed was comfortable (althought I did increase the speed from the original setting), until the end when I pushed it up twice as fast as the setting. Made it to an 8% incline this time, and my calfs could feel it for the rest of the day (and today too!). Don't think I"ll be able to make it out today-it's to much of a busy day. Happy weekend!

Today's run

2009-12-10T09:38:00.003-07:00

Wow! It's been a long time! I actually got on the treadmill today and ran. I have been reading about Sarai's training to get ready for her marathon training and felt inspired. I really don't know the distance I ran, the treadmill says one thing and my Nike + says something else. All i know is that I fluctuated in incline ( i did a programmed run) between 2% to 5% and I tired to keep it at a comfortable pace. Towards the end, I did increase my speed and finished at a 6. Not too bad. It felt good to run again. Hopefully this won't be a once a month thing. I need to get back to feeling good again! Happy running!

Nike Human Race

2009-09-30T22:25:00.002-06:00

Hey girls!

I don't know about you all, but I have been slacking since my last race in July. I have been wanting to get back out there for the past week or so, but have not. I just found the motivation that I needed to get me going. Nike Human Race! I thought I would share it with you all in case you would be interested. Salt Lake running company if organizing some group training runs and a race as well. Here's the info.

5K Race

2009-07-15T19:42:00.000-06:00

Every year, we participate in the Willie Walk. We love the Willie Walk! This year will be a little bit different. This year, the Willie Walk is combining with the Ascend 5K Run. This 5K will take place on Saturday, July 18th at 8:00 AM. This will be an Eagle Scout Project for John's cousins, Matt and Jake. All proceeds will go to Ethiopia to build a school and provide educational materials. Please come out and join us!!! Hope to see you there! For more information, see: http://www.mattandjakes5krun.blogspot.com/

Days of 24 10K anyone?

2009-07-09T16:21:00.003-06:00

Is anyone doing the days of 24 10K? I'm planning on doing it. That's if I get my butt back in gear after surgery. I have tried running since then, but my incision is still tender and it jiggles when I ran and it hurts a little. But I think I should be OK by then, I hope. Anyone?

30 Day Challenge is OVER!

2009-07-01T12:43:00.002-06:00

And yes, I did it! WOOT! We had a little thing going here at work and who was the only one to actually do it everyday? Yup, that's right. Me. I work with a buncha slackers, I tell ya. :)

I lost about 5 lbs but I feel like I have gained a ton of muscle. My legs look and feel different now. I guess that is the point to all those long hours working out.

So far today, I have had a small Twix and 3 fortune cookies. And let me tell you, they have never tasted so good!

My goal now is (besides today...today doesn't count) to only bake and such on the weekends. Sugar was the hardest part. The soda I can live without. My motto is everything in moderation. Good plan, no?

Wasatch Back Ragnar Relay

2009-06-16T22:00:00.000-06:00

I'm so excited to be able to be part of this little adventure with 23 other wonderful woman that I do not even know and have never met, but know they must be cool.

It's been about a year since someone in the Marathon Mommies blog (a blog about moms that run, obviously) posted about wanting to enter this race but did not have enough people to complete a team of 12 people. She asked if anyone would be interested in doing this and a lot of us replied to her post, more than what she actually needed. And you know us moms, don't want to make anyone feel bad. So in order to include the multitudes of enthusiastic running moms, two teams were formed: "Mommies got back", and "Energizer Runnies" (I'm part of Energizer Runnies)

Like I said it's been a few months of posts and emails to organize our teams. We all trusted and mailed money to complete strangers in charge of registering the teams. Then we all put our input into designing a t-shirt for the team. Someone came up with checklists and we each took our pick at what to bring. Someone made a list and assign each with legs according to their level of expertise or not, even estimated how long it would take our teams to complete the race based on each 24 women's running pace. People volunteered their vans for a weekend. A pre-race party and breakfast were even orginized! ...Whew! Lots and lots of organization and blogging! he-he! And it's finally here! Friday is the big day!

Why on earth am I excited about riding in a van filled with a bunch of complete strangers (6 of us, Imagine the stink!), runing in the heat, cold, dark (one of my legs it's at 11:30 pm) maybe rain, dirt trails, "sleeping" under the stars, repeat, keep going for 30+ hrs? ....I DON'T KNOW! But I guess that's the beatuy of it. Putting myself out there, getting out of my comfort zone (I am really shy), getting to know new people, challenging my mind and body. Oh what I do for the love of running! This is going to be fun!

Sugar free challenge completed

2009-06-06T12:48:00.005-06:00

thursday was officially my last day of the 30 days sugar free challenge. I'm pleased to report that I survived it and walked away from it with a 7 lbs weight loss. YAY for me! I feel great too. I noticed other changes besides the weight loss. I have more energy, I'm in a better mood. My husband noticed the mood changing. He told me that I had been really sweet lately (LOL!) . I had noticed it too, he-he! Anyway, it was a good experience so much that I'm afraid to go back to my old habits. I really thought I was a healthy eater and all, but I guess there's always room for improvement. I will try to stick to my new eating habits and maybe indulge on the weekends only. Anyway, I hope you guys find it a rewarding and satisfying experience as well.

I found many articles about the effects of sugar in our bodies. It is not a pretty picture. Here's one of those links

On running:

Here's how I did this week:

Monday: No run :(
tuesday: 6.5 miles
wednesday: 5 miles
thurday: 6.5 miles
friday: rest
saturday: 4 miles

Happy running!

Darn you, Sarai!

2009-06-01T15:25:00.002-06:00

All this talk of going without sugar got to me. So what am I doing? Today is Day 1 of the 30 Days without Sugar/Candy/Soda/Most things yummy. If I end up going postal on my coworkers from a severe sugar deficiency, will you come bail me out of jail?

White Knuckles

2009-06-01T14:28:00.004-06:00

So, I'm hanging onto the no white sugar, no white flour thing with white knuckles. I've been able to do this before, but I don't remember it being this hard! Almost halfway there.

On the positive side, I start a swim class this week, and I am determined to use that to start training for the mini-tri I'd like to do. I did find out that I have some back issues that will prevent me from running, but I think I will keep going and just plan on walking that part.

You guys are doing great and are so inspiring!!!

Thursday and Saturday and my plan for this week

2009-05-31T21:54:00.003-06:00

I made all my runs this week. Thursday I ran with my girlies once more (4 miles). We ran to my little girl's soccer class at the park. I was regreting it on the way home at 11:30 am . It was a warm day and just wanted to get them home. I think that was the last of our runs where we are out that late in the morning. Saturday I went latter in the day (8 miles). The weather was lovely. I love the cool breeze at night. However I did have a hard time getting those 8 miles done, part of it due to bloating and cramping. I think my body does not do good with a whole day's worth of food in my stomach, even thought I did eat 2 hrs before finally getting out. I also realized that I need new shoes!

On another note. The big day is coming up in three weeks! This week I'll be doing two short runs in one day in preparation for the race. I'm behind in my trainning schedule and should be doing 3 short runs in one day, but will try to catch up and make up somehow.

I'm excited and scared to be going into something like this. Someone told me that this type of race can be worse than running a full marathon, this coming from someone that has ran both a marathon and the Ragnar Wasatchback Relay. His reasoning was that a marathon you can get over with in 4 or so hours, but this relay you have to deal with 24 hrs straight, not to mention those hills. He kind of scared me. On top of that my husband will be gone a whole week the week prior to the race and I have girls camp to plan which will be happening the week after the race. June is going to be a busy month!

Here's my plan of action for this week:

Monday: 6 miles
Tuesday: 5 miles
Wednesday: 6 miles
Thursday: 4 miles
Friday: Rest
Saturday: 40 min hills morning, 40 min night

To the library and then some

2009-05-27T15:04:00.004-06:00

Today I ran to the Main Library Downtown for story time. It took me 30 mins sharp to get there pushing the stroller with a 43 lbs 3 yr old and a 28 or so lbs almost 2 yr old, plus about 10 lbs of books to return! After checking another 10 lbs of books to bring home we took a little detour and stopped by Walt-Mart, loaded another 20 lbs of groceries and WALKED home. Yeah, I was done by then. Not sure how long it took me to get home, but the distance only increased by about half a mile. Here's my guesstimate for today (I have not mapped my distance today)

2.5 miles to the library in 30 mins
3 miles back

Total : 5.5 miles

Schedule

2009-05-26T10:17:00.003-06:00

Well, I still haven't signed up for my half. However, my training starts this week. Following Sarai's example, here is my schedule for the week:

Monday: Stretch and Strengthen
Tuesday: Run 3 Miles
Wednesday: Run 2 miles or Cross Train
Thursday: Run 3 miles and strengthen
Friday: 30 minutes Cross Train
Saturday: Run 4 miles
Sunday: Rest

So....I don't need a buddy for Sunday...hee hee....but if anybody is interested in doing a workout on one of these days, let me know (leave a comment, send me a message via Facebook or email)and we'll set it up!

Good start for this week

2009-05-26T08:12:00.004-06:00

I was able to get up early and go both yesterday and today! Horray for me! We had a busy weekend and holiday so getting to bed early was no problem, I was drained by the end of the day and happy to get to bed early. So here are my miles and time. I did more than I thought I was doing. I thought Iwas running 5.5 miles, but just mapped it and found out it was more. I knew I wasn't that slow so that made me happy.

Monday: 6.5 miles in 1 hr 04 min
Tuesday:6.5 miles in 1hr 06 min.

Sarai's not so good week

2009-05-24T22:27:00.005-06:00

I need some motivation. It happened again this week. I am being honest and writing about it hoping that it will help me commit to a better week this week. I only made it out twice this week and also went biking with the family on Saturday. My husband and I went on a date Saturday night and spent the night at my parents so that we would not wake up the girls after coming back late at night. With this planned I brought my shoes and clothes to go on a run the next morning, only my sisters were also going on a bike ride and I decided to tag along instead. That should count for something, right? I also got a really good work out from the two runs I made this week, one in particular. What is it with me and pushing a stroller on windy days? I only ran 3 miles that day and I about quit, but didn't.

Here's how I did:

Tuesday:Pushed the stroller: 3 miles in very windy weather 35mins
Wednesday: Pushed the stroller to the library for story time : 4.5 miles 55 mins.
Saturday: Did about 5 miles biking.

Anyway. Here is my plan for this week:

Monday: 6 miles
Tuesday: 5 miles
Wednesday: 5 miles
Thursday: 4 miles
Friday: rest
Saturday: 8 miles

-Go to bed by 9:30 PM. Most of the times I don't make my runs is because I went to bed late. Having light at 9 PM does not help.
-Blog about my runs daily. This helped me at the beginning. Something about knowing or thinking that someone else is reading about it for some reasons helps.

Not that I have committed to this, I'm hoping to stick to the plan. Stay posted for my daily entries this week.

Allyson's Week

2009-05-23T10:33:00.002-06:00

I'm struggling quite a bit with upping my mileage. I don't know what's wrong, but after a couple of miles, I am ready to quit. It sucks. So I decided to run 2 miles on my off days. The run this morning was so slow, I don't know what happened. It had a few hills, so maybe that was the problem. I am really doubting my ability to run the 1/2 in August. I just don't know if I can do it.

5/18 Ran 2 mi 19:59
5/19 Ran 2 mi 20:21
5/20 Ran 2.7 28:12
5/21 Ran 2 mi 20:04
5/22 Elliptical 60 mins
5/23 Ran 4.3 mi 50:19

Article of the Week

2009-05-20T21:08:00.003-06:00

I know that I have often posted about this in my personal blog. However, this article came out in today's Deseret News. It's about Willie Cowden. Willie was an English teacher/track coach at Brighton High School. He passed away at the age of 52, leaving behind four kids-two sets of twins- under the age of 5. Above anything else, Willie was family. He was my husband's uncle. I feel like I got to know him a lot better by reading this article. Anyway, I hope this serves as a little bit of inspiration for us all!

One Day Down...

2009-05-19T09:06:00.004-06:00

So, I was definitely inspired by you guys and the 30 day challenge. I started yesterday - no white sugar, no white flour. I did okay, although I think it will be more of a challenge than I anticipated. I think it will be really good, though. I had been tracking what I was eating, and it was definitely heavy on refined stuff and light on lean protein and veggies.

Only 29 more to go! :)

update on the sugar free challenge

2009-05-18T15:58:00.003-06:00

Oh! and the sugar free challenge is going great, today marks the beginning of my third week. I have lost 4 lbs so far, and I'm actually 5 lbs away from my goal weight! I think I have to add something else into the mix, maybe I should pull out my Power 90 DVD. Que flojera!

Sarai's week

2009-05-18T15:21:00.004-06:00

I'm still here!

Last week I only made it out 4 out of 5 days I was planning on running. Even though I'm trainning for another race coming up in just one month, Ragnar Wasatch Back relay, I think I have relaxed about it and I'm not giving it 100% like I should. I don't know why, and I'm nervous now that crunch time is approching in just 31 days! Also my husband will be going to the Gym in the mornings and I'm really happy for that, but it will conflict with me being able to make my morning runs, I hate giving them up for evening runs, morning runs are what works best for me and I love it now. I have not gone on a run today, but I will tonight after the girls are in bed. Anyway, here is what I did this week:

Monday- tempo 5 miles 55 min
Tuesday- speed work 5 miles- 47min 46 sec
Wednesday-Hills- 6 miles
Saturday- Hills- I'm not sure how long I ran, and I took a lot of turns and don't remember exactly where. Too complicated to map it and find out. But I ran for 1 hr and 15 mins.

I almost forget to tell you about a scary thing that happened to me on Saturday. I ran east from my house, looking to get some good hills in, like I said I took some turns that finally led me to Foothill Drive up by the U, it was there that I saw this white man talking on his cell phone walking my direction on the same side of the sidewalk as I was. I didn't think anything, he looked normal, but as we got closer, we made eye contact and his look suddenly changed, he put away his cell phone and started running towards me, you know how you always shift to one side to make room for the other person to go on the other side, he wasn't running straight, he was running at an angle towards me, and he looked angry. It happened so fast that all I had time to do was ran off the side walk, away from him and kept running. He yelled all type of things as he passed me, I had my headphones on and all I could make of it was MIERDA (sorry for actually writting that) It was really scary, definetly the most scary thing that has ever happened to me on a run. I kept thinking of what I could have done better to protect myself and not get him just get away with it, that is always my way of thinking, not letting people get away with things like that, and all that occurred to me was that I should have waved a car down to stop and ask for their phone to call the police, since I was not carrying one with me, or carry a cell phone with me which I hate. Also I could have had pepper spray or something, MAN THAT WOULD HAVE BEEN GOOD! Geez! there are some weirdos out there! I'm sure he was racist, why else would someone do something like that. Anyway, I hope he got hit by a car later as he was crossing the street. LOL, just kidding!

Moral of the story, be safe, flag someone down if you need help.

Yesterday

2009-05-16T08:07:00.003-06:00

No run in yesterday, but I did drive down to hat awful place Provo to meet up with John at the state Track and Field Championship. We picked him up, and went for a hike. I don't remember the where we went, but it was hard! John had me bring the jogger, and he fixed my two flats. I started to push it up the trail, and I barely survived. I was feeling really down about how weak and out of shape I was, but I didn't say much and kept going. John finally offered to switch, and when he did, he commented about how hard and heavy the stroller was to push. I then felt a lot better knowing that it wasn't just me. For all of you moms out there, try pushing a jogging stroller up a trail-it's a huge work out! My muscles were burning in places that I didn't think possible, let alone in places were I didn't think I had muscles! I couldn't tell you the distance, but were out there for over an hour. Just waiting for Olivia to wake up now so we can go for our run with the pup. Have a great weekend!

Today's run

2009-05-14T18:03:00.002-06:00

I was so excited! John came home yesterday with a brand new tube for our jogging stroller. He fixed up the flat, pumped the other two tires and we took it for a test run last night. It worked beautifully.

Today however, was a totally different story. I go to put Oli in for our run and the back left tire is flat! John came home early and he was able to watch Olivia while I took our pup out for a run. I couldn't tell you the time, but it seemed slow. At least I got out there! When I got home, i noticed that the back right tire was now flat too. Fix one, now two more need fixing-just my luck! :)

Distance: 3.2 miles

This last week.

2009-05-09T15:50:00.002-06:00

I had to change up a few things this last week due to some, uh, non-injury things. My knee, hip, and both calves were killing me after the run on Tuesday, so I took it easy by doing non running activities and it helped. Today's run was good, but slow. I haven't done that long of a run since last July, so it is good to know I can still do it. With time, I will get faster.

Happy Mother's Day tomorrow to all you mothers out there!

Stats:
5/4 Ran 2 mi on treadmill, much better than last time, 20:38
5/5 Ran 2.7 mi 28:52, calves and hip bothersome
5/6 Bike 30 mins, 2 rounds of circuit strength training
5/7 Elliptical Intervals of levels 7 and 4, 60 mins, 5 min cooldown
5/8 Elliptical Weightloss setting of levels 9 and 4, 33 mins, 5 min cooldown
5/9 Ran 4.1 mi 45:38

An update

2009-05-09T09:12:00.002-06:00

First of all, I want to welcome Danielle! Danielle was my sorority president at the U and is the cutest girl, some of my most favorite memories come from stuff we did in Alpha with Danielle. She is also mom to the cutest little boy-Cole, I think Olivia is going to turn into a cougar when she sees Cole! Danielle, I hope this site helps you, we are happy to have you post!

I do have a small run to report. I arraigned with John to pick up Olivia at church on Wednesday after our primary activity and I ran home. I have to admit, it was a test for me. I thought if I could do that run, then I could do a half marathon. The distance from church to home was approximately 1.8 miles. I'm happy to report that I did it! Ran the whole way without stopping and in good time-I would say under 18 minutes although maybe not quite that fast. I felt great afterwards. As you all know, I also saw the Biggest Loser marathon episode, and that and my run have really helped me out in starting to overcome that mental block I have about the half.

john and I are planning to run the Park City half. It isn't official yet, but if anybody is interested in training with me or running it with me or even going on runs with me, let me know! Happy Mother's Day everybody!

Newbie

2009-05-08T16:38:00.005-06:00

Hey everyone! My name is Danielle, and I'm new here. I have struggled with my weight my entire life, and can't ever seem to just pull it together. I had my first baby in October, and it seems like since then the weight just won't come off. It's very discouraging to have absolutely nothing to wear in my closet, and I've had enough.

First, has anyone done a tri? I'd like to do a sprint, but am coming from a place of not working out for almost a year.

Also, I think I'll hop on the bandwagon of no sugar for 30 days. Would you judge me too much if I wait until after my birthday on May 17th to start? :)

I also watched the Biggest Looser on Tuesday! So inspiring. I can't believe it took 14 hours for Ron to finish! I was amazed at his tenacity in finishing what he started.

3 days into it.

2009-05-06T15:50:00.003-06:00

I'm 3 days into the sugar free for 30 days challenge and I'm glad to repot I'M STILL ALIVE! I have not had desperate cravings yet, but I have had some, last night was the worst so far. My husband worked into midnight and being home alone after I put the girls for bed was hard. I found myself roaming the kitchen for something to put me at ease. I slapped myself out of it and had a glass of water instead while watching the biggest looser. Good thing that was on too. Did anyone watch it last night? They ran a marathon! A couple of them walked the whole thing! Wow! I was sitting there with my glass of water thinking how much running is a lot about a mind thing than anything else. So is this sugar free challenge. If I can ran a 1/2 marathon I can definetly do 30 days without sugar (that's what I keep telling myself) We'll see on mother's day. I'm already getting myself phsycologically ready for that. I'm not going to eat cake that day (sight). Did I mention that my husband is doing the challenge too? That alone makes it easier to endure.

About running. I finally kicked myself out the door today. I keep staying up late and not being able to wake up early to go on a run. Today the same thing happened, except I got the girls into the stroller and just went for it. I had no plan or milage in mind, I just ran and one turn took us into a new road and then another, we finally found ourselves by the Liberty Park and my girls where so excited that we made a stop there, then ran back home. I didn't time myself and I'm not sure how long we ran, maybe 5 or 6 miles. I will try to go to bed early today and go on an early run, I have not taken advantage of the light in the morning that we have now. I won't be scared anymore, Tank is still injured, he has a busted toe-nail! I think that was the problem all along, or maybe it's something new. It looks really painful but he is so crazy, he will not stop! How does my dog keep hurting himself!? Or did I do that?

Hope you are all doing good! Happy running!

30 days Give it up before Summer Challenge

2009-05-04T08:52:00.000-06:00

I heard of this on Oprah last week. I wanted to check it out then, and should have, because now I am 4 days behind. I am giving up sugar for 30 days as well and I'm planning to loose 10 lbs doing this, plus running and exercising. Who wants to do it with me? I figured it would be funner and easier if I dragged someone with me. We can keep each other in check and follow each other's progress. Who is in?

Weekly Roundup

2009-05-02T20:53:00.000-06:00

4/27 Elliptical Intervals of levels 7 and 4, 60 mins, 5 min cooldown
4/28 Ran 2 mi on treadmill, hated it, don't know time
4/29 Elliptical Intervals of levels 7 and 4, 60 mins, 5 min cooldown
4/30 Ran 3 mi 31:57, kinda windy
5/1 No workout, went to Tulip Festival instead
5/2 Ran 2 mi 20:33, soaking wet

This week's stats

2009-04-25T10:24:00.002-06:00

4/20 Elliptical on the weightloss setting, every 4 mins alternating between levels 9 and 4 for 28 mins, 5 min cool down, total 33 mins
4/21 Ran 2 mi 21:27
4/22 Elliptical on the weightloss setting , every 4 mins alternating between levels 9 and 4 for 28 mins, 5 min cool down, total 33 mins
4/23 Ran 2 mi 20:52
4/24 Elliptical on the weightloss setting, every 4 mins alternating between levels 9 and 4 for 28 mins, 5 min cool down, total 33 mins
4/25 Ran 2 mi 20:42

Wasatch Back Ragnar Relay

2009-04-24T19:17:00.003-06:00

Hello Ladies!

Here's a great chance to participate in the Ragnar Relay this summer, and you are not even required to run one bit...if you sign up to be a volunteer! I'm not sure what your tasks would be, but I know one of them would require driving. I think it would be fun! You might get a feel to it and maybe decide to be crazy and run it next year. Anyway, the team needs 3 volunteers, come be crazy with a bunch of strangers in a van full of stinky mommy runners! Let me know if you are interested, we need to have our volunteers registered by May3. Volunteers do not have to pay a registration fee of course, in case you were wondering.

Sarai's 1/2 marathon race report

2009-04-20T10:31:00.002-06:00

Here's my race report.

Last long run before the race

2009-04-11T15:51:00.004-06:00

I made all my runs this week, including my long run this morning. I was a little disappointed thought, after mapping it and finding out I only ran 11.5 miles instead of 12! AAAAAAAHHH! It went wrong when instead of going all the way around the park I took a detour and tried going down the road to break from the monotony of the park. It seemed like I had made up for that chunk of the park I did not run and more, but it turned out It didn't. I was so excited about my time too, It looked like I would be able to make my goal time by the race after all! I think I can make it though, no traffic lights and the energy from other runners will help, I hope. Anyway, I'm tapering down this week and I am off to the race! Will report on it next week.

Better

2009-04-06T22:31:00.003-06:00

After a few weeks in a row of successful training, I think I hit the wall and didn't do as good this week. I only made it out once during the week and then on Saturday for my long run. The good news, for me at least, is that I did so much better on my long run, and I felt so much better and strong as well, nothing compared to the week before where I felt like dieing. I think that all the rest I got during the week had a lot to do with it. I ran closer to 11 miles, I have not mapped it yet, and I did it in less time. I still don't think I'm gonna make my goal on time for the actual race. I'm thinking about taking a drive along the race route to get a feel of how it's gonna be, hills, and stuff. I'm nervous, I read on another blog that the course it's pretty hilly. I have not figured what my race pace is, actually I'm not even sure I know what that means. I know that I should take it easy at the beginning, but I'm not sure when it will be too late or too early to pick it up. All I know is that stopping or walking is not an option, I have never done it so far and want to keep it that way. I want to train hard this week, two days of 5, and 2 days of 3 miles, maybe that way I can make up for last week, then a long run on Saturday, I'm shooting for 12 miles and then start tapering next week. Any advice?

I hope you all are doing great! Are you guys still running the 5K?

10.5+: 148 min 51 sec

I really do exercise

2009-04-02T13:29:00.002-06:00

My mom has been in town the last week and I forgot to post the week before. I love running in the Spring Weather. I haven't been doing anything longer than 6 miles, but I've been able to get out at least 5 times a week the last two weeks and do some good 5.5-6 mile runs. Chicago is beautiful in the Spring. I will try to post more regularly.

Relay Race anyone?

2009-03-30T22:13:00.005-06:00

Hi ladies!

I am running the Wasatch Back relay this summer. I haven't been talking about it, afraid that I might jinx myself, but I'm pretty confident that that won't happen by now. The team I'm gonna be part of just had a runner drop out because of health issues, so there's a spot that just became available today. I think that this is one of the craziest, funnest things to add to any runners carrier. So if you would love to do this, you can find more information here and contact Erin (info@theribbonspot.com) ASAP, I think it will get filled in fast.

Here's another link to the Ragnar Relay site
http://www.ragnarrelay.com/wasatchback/index.php

It has been sold out, but you get to take the girls place and just pay her since she has already registered and stuff.

Sarai's report.. Week 9, 3 more to go.

2009-03-30T13:24:00.005-06:00

This past week was interesting in terms of making it for my runs. It got cold and rainy, and I could not take Tank with me (remember he'd been recovering) so I headed back to the GYM twice this week, same torture. On the third day, Thursday, when it snowed the night before, I just decided to suck it up, there's been worse, and I could definitely do it and Tank seemed to be doing better. So I'm glad to report I found my way around all the excuses I kept making for myself and got out there without missing any of my runs for this week. My long run on Saturday was the hardest one to come around. My husband was not cooperating for the cause. It was kind of my fault for not waking up early enough to leave before anyone else woke up, so I ended up staying to make breakfast and was planning on leaving right after that. My husband had a different plan, he was going to clean the garage and do some man stuff around the house. Why would I complain, you'd ask? Because he knew in advance that I would be going on my long run! Anyway, I just went with it and thought I would go when the girls went down for a nap, while daddy kept working in the garage and stuff. Only Naomi had a plan of her own. She would not nap! Ok, I will go later in the afternoon, after Aaron gets done cleaning the garage and is free to take care of the girls and voila! It happened. He took them down to the local swimming pool while I went on a run! YAY! A very sluggish run. It was at about mile 8 that I was in really bad shape. I think I was dehydrated, and did not fuel up enough before hand, and I felt horrible, even tempted to walk. Oh and did I mention that I tripped and fell? Oh, the embarrassment! Luckily there weren't very many people around. I was running on grass, around the outer loop at the Sugarhouse Park, I tripped over a tree root popping out of the ground! Leave it to me to do this kind of thing. I assessed the damage and there were no blood or injury, good. I will make sure to pick up my feet next time I go there. My time totally reflects the quality of the run. The good news is that I did it! My first 10.5 miles! That alone is a huge accomplishment for me. I will redo this run next week looking to redeem my self. I will change a few things: Waking up earlier, fueling up, taking some water, buying new headphones and taking my ipod with a sweet new soundtrack ( I did not have my Ipod with me, my headphones broke) and going up the side with the more gradual elevation than that of 98% steepness going up.

Here's how I did this week:

Tuesday: 5 miles 47min
Wednesday: 3 miles 32 min
Thursday: 5 miles 54 min
Saturday: 10.5 miles 1hr 52 min 34 sec

Three more weeks to go 'til April 18!

Sarai's Week

2009-03-21T10:36:00.002-06:00

This week went well. I made it out for all of my runs. I had been stuggling with keeping my energy level up during the day and was not giving my little ones the quality time and happy mommy that they deserve. So I tried to come up with a better rutine this week. I am only waking up early for my tempo run ,which I changed from Monday to Tuesday, so that I can have a couple days to recover from my long run on Saturday, and my speedwork run on Thursday. Wednesday I am taking the girls with me and I am pushing the stroller for my short-easy run, and I am sleeping in (that's what I call waking up until at 7 AM, instead of 5:30 AM) And today (Saturday) I woke up at 6:30 AM, so I kind of slept in and had hubby help out with the girls while I was gone. I'm also doing quick ab work out on Mondays, wednesday and fridays before going to bed, it takes me less than 10 mins. I have felt so much better this week. Going to bed early is a must, so I have been trying to be in bed by 10:30 at the latest. I have not been very good at it in the past, which I think is the main reason for my grumpiness and low energy. This week was so much better, I'm sticking to my new plan.

On a sad note, Tank had a bad week this week. Thursaday I noticed he was not being his normal self. He usually runs in front of me, or next to me, but this time he was either next to me or behind me. For a minute I was glad thinking I had the whole Dog whisperer thing down, but then he kept nogging me on the leg with his nose. I checked his paws to see if there was anything in them, but found nothing. I press on them and around his legs and ankles to see if I would get some reaction from him indicating pain, but there wasn't any. So we kept going, I stoped about 3 or 4 times to chekc on him, when I should have just gone home knowing that there was something wrong with him, he has a history of a bad knee, but I didn't. It wasn't until we were already at about our halfway point when we came to a stop light that I saw he was not standing on one of his legs. I felt so horrible for having pushed him even after he had hinted me that there was something wrong. I just wanted to carry him in my arms and take him home, but he is a 100 lbs big german sheperd, and I'm such a whimp, so we walked the rest of the way home. I just kept thinking "Wow! what a good, loyal dog, to not complain even if in pain." and could not help but feeling horrible for having done that to him. He's been resting ever since and taking his pills for the pain and swelling. It's hard to keep him off his feet, but at least he's not running. I will miss him this week, and I will be scared running in the dark without him. I love that dog!

On a good note. I'm not the only crazy one running in the dark anymore. I saw 2 other ladies this week right along my route and it made me feel so much better to know I'm not the only one, which I knew, but I'd never seen anyone so far. It was nice to have someone to come across with a big smile and a good morning to cheer you up.

Here's how I did this week:

Tuesday 5 miles: 50min 48 secs
Wednesday: 3 miles
Thurdays: 4 miles run/walk
Saturday: Long run 8.98 miles(darn it, so close to 9!) 1:36:23. I ran to the Sugar House Park and around it, then to Liberty Park, but did not go around because I needed to be home to get my girls ready to go get some pictures taken and was running out of time. I will do it next week.

Remember me?

2009-03-20T14:18:00.003-06:00

Yeah, I know. I officially suck at logging my workouts on here. I'M SORRY! I will try to do better. So, to play a little catch up, here is what I have been doing lately.

They finally re-opened the fitness room at my apartment complex and hurrah! They have added a couple of machines! Since I am soooo out of running shape, I started out using the elliptical and the bike, increasing the resistance level each time. After a couple of weeks of that, guess what happened? I got sick and barely had enough energy to drag myself out of bed and to work. I have since recovered and have switched to running.

This is where the story gets really pathetic.

Remember last summer when I was running 3-4 miles a day and doing a long run of 5,6, or even 7+ miles on Saturday? Yeah, sooooo not there anymore and it is frustrating.

I got on the treadmill, iPod newly loaded with different up-tempo songs, and started running. When I run on the treadmill, I always walk the first 5 minutes as a warmup, then do my thing (which may or may not equal running) and then do a 5 minute walk as a cool down. Yeah...so...um, I had a hard time running. I think the first time, I ran a total of 14 minutes and almost died. I had the hardest time getting to the 10 minute mark without wanting to quit.

So I told myself that I would do it again, but add one to two minutes each time I ran. I have been doing that for the last week and a half and guess what? I am now running 25 minutes which is about 2.4 miles, because I am so slow now.

It is coming back, and thankfully, my body is adapting well to running again. Little aches and pains but that is just from the muscles protesting after the months of leisure. If all goes well, I should be up to 3.5 miles or so next week. If I can get to that (or near it) by next Saturday, then I will be signing up for the SLC 5K in April. If not, I may have to sit it out and run a different race later on.

I have stopped using the treadmill and am back to running around the park. I have forgotten how great it is to run outside! Especially in this perfect weather.

So, there you go. That is what is up with me and my fitness (or lack thereof). I will try to post more frequently.

Today's run

2009-03-18T12:55:00.004-06:00

has it really been two weeks?! Yikes! I can't believe that it's been that long since I last ran. Well, Vegas did me in. We were so busy and on the move that I didn't have a chance to get out and once we were home, well, I didn't have the motivation to going again. But, today was the day! I convinced myself to go outside and run. Pushing Olivia was hard. I can't believe the difference it makes. My iPod died half way through the run, so I didn't see my final time.

Distance: 3.2 miles.

This run kicked my butt, but I loved it. My legs felt like rubber through most of the run. I guess that's what two weeks off and pushing a baby stroller will do to you! Anyway, here I am on my way out! ;) Yes, I own a running skirt. Yes, I love it. Why? Because it's nice and I feel like I look good while I run. And, in a world where the bodies of so many elite female athletes are so masculine, it's nice to look and feel feminine while running.

Week's Stats

2009-03-14T18:07:00.003-06:00

My long run to the Capitol last weekend is now my favorite one. I made it up there just on time to see the sun setting, it was beautiful! The hill was a killer. I pretty much run flat all of the time, so yes, I was feeling it. I must have look like an old lady running up that hill, at least I felt like one. But it was not over yet, I had those steps ahead of me still. I made it up there and my legs did not give up on me! Amazing what adrenaline can do to you. I was happy. Coming back I had so much energy and felt strong. I think going downhill had a lot to do with it, and also the fun soundtrack my husband downloaded for me the night before- Mama Mia soundtrack. Needless to say it was a great run.

On Tuesday I got out there in the early morning and it was just ice galore everywhere. I thought I'd give it a try anyway, I was not gonna waste my waking up early. A couple of blocks into it, I just decided that it was ridiculous and headed back home. But I did get some miles in the next couple days, which pretty much went uneventful.

Here are my stats for this week:

My long run to the capitol: 7 miles 1:14' 48

Wednesday: 4.8 miles 48'48

Thursday: 5 miles 51'19

Long Run today(Liberty Park): 6.5 miles 1:09'21

My Week's Report

2009-03-10T18:29:00.003-06:00

I really do run and exercise. I just don't remember to report on this thing. Last week was beautiful, so I got some good runs in. Here are my stats on distance, and I'll start keeping track of time.

Wednesday: Ran 5.5 miles
Thursday: Ran 6 miles
Friday: Ran 5.5 miles
Saturday: Elliptical for 55 minutes, burned 420 calories
Sunday: My day of rest
Monday: Elliptical for 55 minutes, burned 406 calories
Tuesday: Potty training Ruby all day and no exercise, Aargh.

Another lesson on why I should not sleep in.

2009-03-06T14:44:00.003-07:00

I remembered my reason for sleeping in on Wednesday. My husband had a huge deadline to meet at work that day that he ended up staying at the office ALL NIGHT LONG. He came home the next morning at about 8:30 AM, poor thing, and that's why I didn't wake up early to go running. I feel so much better now to remember that I didn't just sleep in. Moving on. I don't know what is up this week that things keep coming up making it hard to get my running done. Today, I thought I would "run" a couple errands and get some miles done in the process. Again, got myself and the girls all ready to go, but when I went to get them in the stroller, the seats were wet and had a thick layer of ice on them. I forgot to put it away in the garage last time I used it. Oops! I was not gonna sit this one down either. We jumped in the car and drove to our local gym, where they have child care, $1.50/hr per kid plus $4.oo for a day pass. I came out $7.00 bucks poorer, but that's ok, believe me it won't happen again....I hated it! Every min of it. It was torture! I was supper hot and sweaty- no cold air to cool me down, and felt as if the walls were closing in on me, the timer was not moving fast enough- each minute felt just longer that it should have. I was glad when it was all over and happy to have endured it. Waking up early is just so much less complicated. I will happily wake up early next time I have too. I got my three days of running this week. Tomorrow: Long run day- 7 miles. I'm planning on making it all the way to the capitol. Bring on the hills!

Here are my stats for today:
4 miles, 38 mins 24 secs.

Yesterday

2009-03-06T07:53:00.002-07:00

Yesterday....was an interesting day in terms of running. I decided to do a short and easy run so that I could get home early and finish getting our things ready for our trip this weekend. Funny how things don't always work out the way you want them to. Well, I started my run ok, until I realized that my Nike sensor wasn't working. Needless to say, it wouldn't be the first time during my run that this would happen. The thing with this "Nike+" stuff is that you have to have a pair of certain Nike shoes for the sensor to fit and work well. I have a pair of Nike shoes, but they aren't made for the sensor and I was wearing my Asics which I have to shove the sensor somewhere in my toe box for it to stay still. Anyway, I stopped a couple more times to fix the sensor, then I accidentally turned off the treadmill at about .8 miles. So, I had to start over. The run took me almost about an hour and 15 minutes total-that includes all the stops to fix the sensor and I ended up running about 4 miles total. Why did I stop to fix the sensor, you may be asking. Well, it this stupid challenge that I'm doing, and my competitive side got the better of me. I'm currently in 5th place overall and the top female. How could I not want my sensor to work?! Anyway, here are some of the stats:

Time: 7:54 minutes
Distance: .8 miles

Time: 32 minutes
Distance: 3.2 miles

We are off to Vegas for the weekend. I'll be running there, but won't be able to post, so you'll get one big post on Monday. Happy weekend!

Wednesdays stats

2009-03-05T23:11:00.003-07:00

I'm trying to think of my excuse for sleeping in on Wednesday and I can't think of one. I know I have one, but I forgot. I probably went to bed really late, like I will be doing tonight. I did go running during the day. Yeah, that same day when it was super windy outside. Since my plan did not work out on Tuesday, we gave it another try on Wednesday, wind and all. I almost sat that one down too, but figured I'd just do it and get it over with. I was planning on having at pic-nic and laying out a blanket to sit down and have our lunch, but that would have been a disaster, we would have ended up chasing our lunch instead of eating it. The wind was so strong, that I decided eating it in the car would be a better idea. We did stay to play in the playground and we did run against the wind, did I mention the wind was really strong? I struggled, I think it was the most intense work out I have had in a while. I could hear my heart pounding, and my face burning, not to mention my calves. That plastic shield is good protection for the little ones, and I'm really happy I have it in this type of circumstances, but then again it catches and traps all the wind and makes it even harder to go against it. I was using both arms to push the stroller, and was really giving it all I had. I'm exhausted just thinking about it. I was really glad I got it done though. Gotta love that accomplishment feeling after it's all done.

Oh, and I messed up my watch trying to time my first lap separately. I hate it when I do things like that. Here's a guesstimate:

3 miles, 30 min.

Did some strenghtening and stretching on Tuesday

Yesterday and Today

2009-03-04T21:36:00.002-07:00

Oh man! I'm glad that I have great posts to read! Sarai, I hope you were able to make it out today-that stinks that your plans didn't work out as you would have wanted. Karolyn, I'm sorry that you are having such bad luck-I really truly hope that we, at Fitness Mamas haven't cursed you!

Well, I didn't make it out for a run yesterday, but I did do some core work. Not as much as I would have liked, considering that I didn't run, but at least it was something. Today's run, however, I'm not proud of. I don't know about the rest of you that live here in Utah, but that wind is killing me. First of all, we have had such strong wind in my neighborhood-it has literally kept me from sleeping. It has also kept me from running outside. I'm really nervous to run outside now-I'm afraid that I've gotten to comfortable running on a treadmill and if I run outside and my time stinks, it will be confidence breaker for me. So I been trying to get my nerve up to run outside and now that I felt somewhat brave, the wind has blown that confidence away.

Today, I went out on the treadmill. Like I said, I'm not proud of my effort-I'm even kind of embarrassed to post about it. I had to stop 3 different times (and I don't mean to walk-I mean literally stopped) and I had lower my elevation. I don't know how to describe how I felt, but it felt like a combination of my legs feeling like rubber and lead at the same time. I have no idea how I was able to run. Anyway, here are my stats.

Time: 35 minutes
Distance: 3.3 miles

I ran at 4% elevation for 1.5 miles and then at 0% for the remainder of it. Embarrassing, I know. I got home and did about 10 minutes worth of yoga-I haven't done it in a while and so that is about all I could do.

On a separate note, I joined a challenge on Nike+. If you have an iPod and a Nike hook up, you know what I'm talking about. The challenge is to see who can run the most miles in a given period of days. I'm currently in 6th place! Not bad considering I've only ran twice this month.

Also, I wanted to again ask if anybody wanted to participate in the April Challenge. The April Challenge is to find a race sometime in April-that way we have something to train for. I know that I'm doing the SLC 5k, and I think Allyson is too. Sarai is doing the half on the same day and if anybody else wants to join, let me know. It doesn't matter if you don't live here, just find a race in April. Let me know!

This is what happens when you sleep in.

2009-03-03T12:46:00.002-07:00

I'm here. Today, I slacked. Let me rephrase that "My plans did not go accordignly" I decided to sleep in, since today is my easy and short run day (3 miles) I thought I'd take the girls to the park and go for a couple of laps around it....it did not happen. My husband took my keys to work! Yeah, no biggie, I'd just run to the park instead....my stroller is in the car, locked up! GRRR! I was really upset, explain that to those two little cuties of mine, all dressed up, excited and ready to go. Our plans of having a pic-nic, flying a kite, playing in the park and runing all down the drain now. We had to suck it up and go on a little walk around the block. No more sleeping in for me. I did get out yesterday and on saturday for my long run. My dad came along again, so we ran/walked all 6 miles. I was surprised he endured with me all the way to the end, he's a trooper!

So here are my stats for Monday, I didn't really timed it on Saturday to give my old man a break.

Monday: 4 miles in 40 min 36 secs

I'll see if I can sneek out tonight, no promises.

Cursed

2009-03-03T11:37:00.003-07:00

Perhaps I've been cursed ever since I joined this blog. I have been healthy all year and right after I joined Fitness Mamas I got the stomach flu and a week later I got a really bad sinus cold/sore throat. I'm finally healthy again. It felt great to go running this morning. I did 5.5 miles. The Lake is completely frozen right now and just looks like big chunks of ice. I'm thinking that maybe I should train for something again. I've taken a long break from training, thinking I'd have a baby, but that doesn't seem to be happening. I should have a goal again I think--maybe a half marathon. I'll let you know if I find something not too far away.

Yesterday

2009-03-03T07:01:00.002-07:00

Did a quick and easy run last night. Felt pretty strong for most of the run. Not much to write about it other than I was pleased with my time. So, here are my stats:

Distance: 3.2 miles
Time: 32 minutes
Elevation: 0%

Back to running at a 4% elevation today!

Weekend

2009-03-02T07:45:00.002-07:00

Ok. Friday was a bad day. John had the day off and we had planned on me going running that day after his run, but it didn't happen because I was standing in a 2 hour line at a viewing (you can read about in on my blog if you are interested). I didn't get out of there until about 7 PM and hadn't had a thing to eat that day, so running was pretty much out of the question by then. I did however run on Saturday. I hated ever second of it. I don't know why, but I just didn't want to run, but I did it, and like I said, I hated it. Here are the stats for Saturday night:

Time: 34 minutes
Distance: 3.3 miles
Elevation: 2%

Per John's suggestion, I did a medium run, which meant that I cut the elevation in half of what I normally do it. I ran hard and fast (for me). By the end of the run I had reached about 6.7 mph. Again, when I hit the 3 mile mark, I lowered the elevation to 0% and increased the speed. I'm just glad that it was over. Hopefully this week will be better in terms of attitude!

Today's Run

2009-02-26T12:49:00.003-07:00

Started today off this morning by doing some arm toning exercises. Then I worked on my core-I did the bridge and the side plank from this week's article. The side plank was the hardest out of the two. I made it for a run tonight (even though the post might have an earlier time), and it was hard...again. This has been a hard week-it seems as though I'm regressing in my time. If it mean that it will make my running stronger, then I'll take it. If not, then I need to figure out something to do to get the lead out of my legs.

Distance: 3.3 Miles
*2.8 miles at 5.5 mph and 4% incline
*0% incline once I hit 3 miles, pushed speed up to 6.5 mph.
Time: 37 minutes.

See what I mean? So slow!!! Anyway, hope the rest of you had better luck!

Yesterday

2009-02-26T09:16:00.004-07:00

I made it out for a run on the treadmill yesterday. It was hard! I was back at a 4% incline and I barely ran at that incline for 2.5 miles. Once I hit that mile marker, I lowered the incline for a little bit to 3%, then back to 4% and the final .2 miles, I lowered it to 0%. I did, however, maintain speed between 5.5 mph - 5.8 mph. Once I hit the 3 mile mark (zero incline), I pushed the speed up to 6.3 mph. I'll say it again, it was a hard run and I could tell that it had been almost a full week since I ran at in incline.

Stats:
Time: 36 Minutes
Distance:3.3 miles

Speedwork

2009-02-25T14:59:00.003-07:00

I felt so slow and heavy during my run today, I thought I was not going to make my goal but surprisingly I did! I have improved my timing since last week's. Now I have a new time to beat- makes my nervous!

Here are my stats for today:

4 miles- 40 min 53 secs

Yesterday

2009-02-25T07:17:00.002-07:00

I made it out for a run yesterday. Since I hadn't run since Friday, I thought a quick and easy run would be appropriate. It's a good thing that was my plan of action. My legs and upper body felt like lead through the whole run! I might try to go out on my neighborhood route today instead of the treadmill-we'll see how that works out. I've been doing core work as well. After my run, I did two sets of the "Superman" from yesterday's article. My core was still sore from Monday's work and is still sore today. Love that feeling....

Stats: 3.3 miles
Time: 35 minutes

Article of the week

2009-02-24T15:55:00.004-07:00

Ok. I found this in Runner's World. This is about working out your core-what the benefits are and some exercise you can try. It's not the full article, only part of it. If you are interested in reading the full article (with pictures of the exercises), you can find it here.

HERE'S HOW YOUR CORE WORKS FOR YOU ON THE ROAD

Speed: As you extend your stride or quicken the rate of your leg and foot turnover when you're trying to pick up your pace, the lower abs-including the transversus and rectus abdominis-and lower back are called into action. The stronger and more stable these muscles are, the more force and speed you can generate as you push off the ground.

Uphills: The glutes and lower abs support the pelvis, which connects to the leg muscles needed to get uphill. If the core is strong, the legs will have a stable plane to push from, for a more powerful ascent. When you swing your leg forward, the hip-flexor muscles, such as the rectus femoris, pull on the pelvis. As you push off the ground, the glutes and hamstrings are engaged.

Downhills: When you're flying down a slope, you need strong gluteal muscles to help absorb the impact and counter the momentum of the forward motion. As fun as it may be to zoom down, without the core strength to control your movement, your quads and knee joints bear the extra pounding of your body weight, which can lead to fatigue, pain, and even injury.

Endurance: As you're nearing the end of a race, a solid core helps you maintain proper form and run efficiently, even through fatigue. With strong lower abs and lower-back muscles, such as the erector spinae, it's easier to stay upright. If your core is weak, you may end up shuffling, slouching, and putting too much stress on your hips, knees, and shins.

Lateral Movement: Whenever you have to suddenly move to the side-to turn the corner on a track, dodge a pothole, or navigate undulating terrain-the obliques provide stability and help keep you upright. If your core is weak, then you may end up leaning into the movement, which can put excess weight and strain on the joints in your legs and feet.

BEYOND CRUNCHES
The 15-minute workout designed just for runners

Fortunately, quality core work doesn't require a lot of time or equipment-just a few key moves done correctly and consistently. This workout is designed by Greg McMillan, a running coach and exercise scientist in Flagstaff, Arizona, who has worked with many recreational runners and world-class athletes. The workout is devised to strengthen the specific muscles runners need for bounding up hills, sprinting to the finish, enduring long distances, and preventing common running injuries. Try doing two sets of these moves right before or after your run, three times a week.

Superman: What It Hits: transversus abdominis (deep abs) and erector spinae (lower back)Start facedown on the floor, with your arms and legs extended out front. Raise your head, your left arm, and right leg about five inches off the floor. Hold for three counts, then lower. Repeat with your right arm and left leg. Do up to 10 reps on each side.

Keep It Honest: Don't raise your shoulders too much.
Make It Harder: Lift both arms and legs at the same time.

Bridge: What It Hits: glutes and hamstrings
Lie faceup on the floor, with your knees bent 90 degrees, your feet on the floor. Lift your hips and back off the floor until your body forms a straight line from your shoulders to your knees. Hold for five to 10 seconds. Lower to the floor and repeat 10 to 12 times.

Keep It Honest: Squeeze your glutes at the top of the movement, and don't let your spine sag. Make It Harder: Straighten one leg once your hips are lifted.

Metronome: What It Hits: obliques
Lie faceup on the floor with your knees bent and raised over your hips, with your ankles parallel to the ground, your feet lifted, and your arms extended outward. Rotate your legs to the left side, bringing your knees as close to the floor as possible without touching. Return to the center, then move your knees to the right side. Do 10 to 12 reps on each side.

Keep It Honest: Make sure not to swing your hips or use momentum; start the movement from your core and continue to move slowly from side to side.
Make It Harder: Keep your legs straight.

Plank Lift: What It Hits: transversus abdominis and lower back
Begin facedown on the floor, propped up on your forearms, with knees and feet together. With your elbows under your shoulders, lift your torso, legs, and hips in a straight line from head to heels. Hold for 10 seconds. Raise your right leg a few inches, keeping the rest of the body still. Lower and repeat with your left leg.

Keep It Honest: Pull in your belly and don't let your hips sag.
Make It Harder: Extend the time of the exercise. Each time you lift your leg, hold it for 15 to 20 seconds.

Side Plank: What It Hits: obliques, transversus abdominis, lower back, hips, and glutes
Lie on your right side, supporting your upper body on your right forearm, with your left arm at your left side. Lift your hips and, keeping your body weight supported on the forearm and the side of the right foot, extend your left arm above your shoulder. Hold this position for 10 to 30 seconds. Switch sides and repeat.
Keep It Honest: Keep your hips up; don't let them sag.
Make It Harder: Support your upper body with your right hand, instead of your forearm.

Yesterday

2009-02-24T15:52:00.002-07:00

I didn't make it out for a run yesterday. Nope. Had a lazy day. I did however work on my abs/core and today they are a little sore-I love that feeling. Hope to make it out tonight!

Cross training day

2009-02-24T15:31:00.005-07:00

Today is supposed to be either a short run day (2 miles) or cross training day. A couple of weeks ago someone at church asked if I could be her trainer (those were her words) I almost laughed, me? a trainer? Even funnier, I said yes. Since she is very beginner- did not have a work out or exercise routine, I figuered she would have to start very light duty- walking/jogging, and I could use that on my cross training days. Last week's thursday was our first day and I actually think I over did it for her, good thing she didn't faint. I didn't realized it until we were done, poor lady. We walked/jog for about 1- 1/2 mile, this was also in the early morning, and I was freezing, not able to even brake out a sweat! Today we met at the park, later in the morning instead, stroller and kids included, and went on a 1-1/2 mile walk. The weather was gorgeous, so we stayed and had the kids play. After that, she went home and I went around another lap, this time running. I could feel the difference right away, weight plus windy weather. I was working out muscles I don't think Ihave been using lately going on a run by myself, which is a good thing. Tomorrow speed work day! Fun!

1 1/2 mile walk (did not keep time) + 1-1/2 mile run, 14 min 53 secs

A new route

2009-02-23T22:33:00.006-07:00

I was feeling a little anxious as I went out the door this morning. Something was telling me not to go down my usual route. I kept trying to ignore it thinking that it was just me a little scared of the darkness and that I would be ok as always. A few blocks into it I came across a guy riding a bicycle. I was already into that mode where you almost block out everything along the way just trying to get from point A to point B, but it took my a second to snap out of it as he passed me. I looked back and he was staring at me! I knew in that moment I needed to go a different way. Needless to say I went a different route, one with way more traffic coming through and lots of houses along the way, unlike my usual route. The street I went down this morning takes you to the freeway, so it was very busy. All the anxiety went away as soon as I changed ways, and even though I will never know what would have happened had I ignored those prompotings, I am happy I listened and went the other way. I need to stop thinking about getting some pepper spray and actually do it! It would help me feel a little safer. Tank helps a lot too. I love having him with me. I don't think I would be brave enough to go out in the dark with out him.
Anyway, make sure to stay safe if you go out in the dark too!

Here are my stats for today:
3.8 miles in 41:20

Yesterday's run

2009-02-21T16:44:00.004-07:00

Made it out for a quick easy run before we went to John's game. Not much to report, but I did manage to lower my time by about two minutes (3.2 miles at 33:33). Also, I did maintain my speed pretty close my goal for the day. I think i could have gone faster, but I was pleased with the results.

Stats: 3.4 miles
Time: 35 Minutes

My speed was at 5.8 - 5.9 mph until the last two minutes where I pushed it up to 6.2 mph. Even at that pace I still felt pretty good. I should have pushed it up sooner. Oh well, that will be the goal for next week!

Three days of the Elliptical

2009-02-21T14:02:00.002-07:00

For the past few days it has either been snowing or below 10 degrees so I have been using the elliptical. I did 55 minutes each day which was about 9.3-9.5 km each time. It felt good and I read some of my Harry Truman book, but I prefer running outside. The forecast looks good next week with temperatures in the 30s. I'll let you know how it goes.

2009-02-21T12:59:00.004-07:00

That was a good run! I made it all the way to the conference center. I didn't map how far to go for 5 miles and I was feeling really good so I just kept going, until my dog's paws started bleeding :( He's ok. I don't think I've ever taken him on a long run and he was having a hard time. I either need to not take him again or take him more often so he gets used to it.Anyway, had a good run. Would have been better if I had not hit so many stop lights, all of the sudden I felt like my husband does on Bangeter Hwy! I kept stopping light after light and I was hating it!Still had a good run.

6.5 miles in 1:11

Yesterday's Run

2009-02-20T09:52:00.003-07:00

I made it out for a run yesterday. I skipped out on Wednesday because I wasn't feeling too great. Anyway, I was back to my 4% incline after two fun, easy runs. My run went really good and I was really impressed with it. So here are my stats:

Distance: 3.38 Miles
Time: 38 Minutes

I ran the almost the whole time-I stopped to walk for about 1 minute. I started at 5 mph, and gradually increased it to 6 mph. When I made it to 6 mph, I would try to keep that pace as long as I could and once I started feeling like I was about to lose it, I would go back down to 5 mph and start over again. Anyway, it was a good and hard run-that is to say that I worked hard because I can feel it in my legs. When I got home, I also did a short set of sit-ups to work on my core. Today will be an easy, recovery run. Happy running!

My first post here!

2009-02-19T13:39:00.003-07:00

Hi! Areli invited me to join, and this blog looks great. I have been a runner forever, but the last 8 years have added yoga into the mix. Lately my primary workouts come from yogatoday. They offer a free workout every day (about 1 hour long). I love it! They have all levels, so if you are new to yoga, there are some good workouts for you.

Slippery when frozen.

2009-02-18T15:33:00.003-07:00

As soon as I got out this morning I noticed the sidewalks had a thin layer of ice here and there. I managed to see the ice patches ahead of me and I was doing a good job at dodging them. I was half way done with my run, feeling proud of my abilities to run on ice and not fall... when my dog pulled in front of me for some reason. I tried to maneuver around him to avoid falling on him, but instead I slipped on ice and fell! I felt like Bambi, I probably looked really funny on my way down. I landed on my hands and knees and got up QUICKLY, looked around to make sure no one was laughing- nothing seemed to hurt, or bleed, so I continued on my merry way. I was walking around Costco this morning when I felt my right knee lock on me, and then again, and again. It's been feeling a little funny since then. I'm not in pain, but I can tell there's something going on. I hope it just goes away by tonight, if not I'm gonna have to sit out tomorrow morning. Oh well, if I look at it on the bright side that means I get to sleep in.

Welcome

2009-02-17T15:58:00.003-07:00

As many of you have already seen, Karolyn is new on Fitness Mamas. She is a runner like a lot of us here. So, welcome Karolyn!! Glad to see that we've revived Fitness Mamas!

My First Post

2009-02-17T12:01:00.002-07:00

Areli invited me to join this great blog. Hopefully, it will motivate me to continue running during these cold months. I went on a 5.5 mile run early this morning. The hardest part for me is getting out of bed, but once I'm running it feels really good. I ran to Lake Michigan. There are some nice bike/jogging trails all along the lake. I saw the sunrise over the lake and on the way back I could see the Chicago skyline in the distance. It was a beautiful run and I felt so good after I finished. I think running is my drug.

Yesterday

2009-02-17T11:07:00.006-07:00

I tried to get on last night to post, but had trouble connecting to blogger. So, here is what I did last night. We made it out to my parents home so I could do a run, but left to run an errand almost as soon as we got there. So I didn't even get to run. However, when we finally made it home, John helped me out and we did a couple of different core and upper arm/shoulder exercises. At first I didn't think it even did anything, but after 5 minutes after the work out, I could really feel the soreness in my core. Back to running today!

Also, I would like to welcome Pam Beach-(she is one of John's cousins) that has joined us on Fitness Mama's! Anyway, have a good week!

Saturday's Run

2009-02-16T11:11:00.003-07:00

I made it out for a run on Valentine's Day. John and I had to run as well, so we picked up a pizza, had a couple of slices before we started our runs. John went on the treadmill first and then I did mine. Since it was Valentine's Day, I just did a quick, easy run-like Friday's. I did a lot better, I ran the whole time-but at a slower pace. Even still, I finished a minute faster than I did on Friday. Well, John has the day off today and we're planning on going to my parent's to do my run today as well. Back to runing on an incline today-I'll miss the easy run!!

Stats:
Distance: 3.35 miles
Time: 35 minutes
Incline: 0%

Speedwork and Long Run

2009-02-15T23:41:00.003-07:00

I made it out on thursday for my speedwork day, that is one block of runing fast and the other slowing down. I did 8 reps of that. I ran 3.5 in 37 min 36 sec. Then on Saturday I went on my long run. I was a little off on my calculations. I was impressed to see my time until I figuered the miles, then I wasn't so impressed, ended up running only 4.6 miles instead of 5 miles. Did that in 58 mins 40 secs. No wonder why I felt so good the whole time. I had a good time running through downtown, made it all the way to 300 S. Next stop temple square and then....The Capitol. I can see me there, running up the steps like Rocky (he-he!)

I found this little quote that someone else came up with as motivation to themselves on the marathon mommies blog.

I hate this!

I am commited to it!!

This is awesome!

Try it, it works.

Yesterday's Run

2009-02-14T15:28:00.004-07:00

Yesterday, I made it out for a run on the treadmill. I hadn't run in the last two days-a break and wasn't feeling well, so I decided to do an easy run. Who do you do an easy run on the treadmill? You put the incline on 0%. I haven't really been dedicated in my running since after my 5k last April, I've been so sporadic with it that I wanted to see where I was at. I was mildly impressed and at the same time, disappointed as well. I was impressed at my time and that I wasn't too far off from were I was for my race, but disappointed when I thought of how much further I'd be if I would have kept running. So, here are the stats for the run:

Distance: 5K
Time: 36 minutes (compared to 31 minutes last April)

Not bad, but not great either. I had to stop 3 times to walk and I only allowed myself to walk for 2 minutes before starting to run again. I guess it's good to know where I'm at, so that I keep pushing myself and not conform to being mediocre. Well, that's all for now. Hoping to get a run in today as well. Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-11T21:37:00.002-07:00

Made it out on Tuesday for an easy run. I almost didn't go when I opened the door and saw the ground covered in snow, I think there must have been about an inch of snow. I had already gotten up and ready, and my dog was all excited too, so I decided "What the heck!" It was only going to be a 2 miler anyway. It wasn't as hard, running in 1 inch of snow, as I thought it would be. My dog did almost take me on a sledding ride when he saw a cat! No accidents, he actually did really well when I told him to stop it. I didn't make it out today. I went to bed really late last night. The YW went to the Draper Open house and we got home at 11 PM. I was exhausted! I was supposed to do cross tomorrow so I just did that today, worked on my core and streched. I'll make it out tomorrow.

Here are my stats for yesterday:

2 miles, 26 min 46 secs

Yesterday's Run

2009-02-11T10:02:00.003-07:00

I made it out last night! It was a hard run and I really struggled, but I got it done. Yea! My stats are the same as yesterday, I'm going to keep it at that pace and time the whole week. Next week will increase running time and hopefully the pace as well. On a side note, got on the scale this morning-3 lbs lighter than I was yesterday. I wasn't expecting any results so soon, then again I credit that I've been watching what I eat and exercise for the loss. Hopefully I won't gain it back and the weight will keep going down. I might take the day off today, I've got a meeting in the evening and it's hard to run when Olivia wants to get on the treadmill with you. Anyway. Happy running!

Today's Run

2009-02-09T21:41:00.003-07:00

Well, I just got back from a treadmill run. I debated and debated whether or not to go, but when John came home, I decided to go. I felt good during this run-but I guess it might also just be the feeling of accomplishment.

Stats: Ran 3 1/2 minutes at 5 mph, ran 1 minute at 6 mph (Sometimes I would run 1 1/2 minutes at 6 mph-it just depended on how I was feeling). Walked for 1 1/2 minutes, all at a 4% incline.

Distance: 3.25 miles
Time: 40 minutes

I did a quick 2 minute warm up (walking) and 2 minute cool down (walking). Now I'm off to do a little bit of yoga seeing how I didn't have a chance to stretch after my run. My leg muscles feel good and I haven't had much of a problem with my hip, so taking this running slow and easy has helped a lot. Hopefully I'll get back on the treadmill tomorrow!

Article of the Week

2009-02-09T12:52:00.005-07:00

I was looking for an article in the Midvale Journal, in which my husband was interviewed. I found the article, but also found this article. I choose it as our article of the week because 1: It is inspirational to me and 2: It's my husband's uncle. Enjoy!

Midvale man excels at Huntsman World Senior Games

Noel Olsen won a gold medal in the 3000-meter run at the 2008 Huntsman World Senior Games, setting a new record for his age category.

Noel Olsen repeatedly achieves something that most will never accomplish.The 66-year-old Midvale man completed his seventh triathlon in October at the Huntsman World Senior Games in St. George.

The race he competes in every year begins with a 500-yard indoor swim. That’s almost one-third of a mile, or 20 laps in the pool. Next comes a 20-kilometer (12.4 mile) bike ride, then a 5K (3.1 mile) run. His time of 1 hour, 13 minutes and 20 seconds, was good enough to put him in third place this year.

To train and to keep in shape, Olsen said he runs, bikes and swims four to six days a week.“I’m very competitive, but it’s also a whole lot of fun to do,” he said. “It’s great to be able to do the things that you did in high school.”

Doing the things you did in high school is a rare achievement for anyone just a few years after graduation, let alone for someone almost five decades removed from those school days.

At Salt Lake City’s West High School, Olsen was a track and field athlete and earned a scholarship to Mesa Junior College (now Mesa State College) in Grand Junction, Colo.

“Since then, I’ve just kept it up,” he said.

The triathlon isn’t the only event Olsen excels in at the annual Huntsman World Senior Games, where more than 9,500 athletes 50 years and older compete in 25 sports. He also competes in the 3,000-meter run there.

This year, Olsen broke the Huntsman World Senior Games record for that event, running it in 11:58.19, more than 9 seconds better than the previous fastest time of 12:07.33.

In addition to competing in the Huntsman Games, Olsen also enters local races. For example, on Nov. 27, Olsen finished 42nd out of about 1,150 runners at the Cottonwood Heights Recreation Center Thanksgiving Day 5K run.

After retiring from the National Guard as a parachute technician about five years ago, Olsen said he now has more time to run, and that has contributed to his overall well-being.

“When you focus on wanting to run well, there’s an obvious health benefit,” he said. “How you eat, how you rest, how you work out, all these things are inter-connected.”

Half-marathon anyone?

2009-02-09T11:17:00.002-07:00

Anyone wants to train for the half-marathon? There's still plenty of time. My brother and sister in law trained for the Moab half in just 8 weeks. There is 10 weeks left until April 18, plenty of time! Here a couple of links to a half training program if anyone is interested. Think about it, it would be fun!

http://www.halhigdon.com/halfmarathon/index.htm

http://www.the-fitness-motivator.com/half-marathon-training-plan.html

2009-02-09T09:24:00.005-07:00

Made it out on Saturday for what was supposed to be my long run. I spent the weekend at my parents house so I invited my dad to come along, he's always up for a run and a challenge. My dad used to be a boxer in his younger years, and he's always been or tried to stay in shape. I enjoyed running with my dad, it'd been a while. He used to take us (my brothers and sisters) with him when were little on his saturday runs to the park. I was always the slowest one, and I think also the one who enjoyed this outings the least. I don't know that I got my 4miles in, but I had fun talking to my dad then racing to the finish line and beating him, oops! I hope that doesn't qualify has breaking one of the 10 commandments, he-he! (honor your father and your mother)

I made it out this morning as well, set my alarm to 5:50 am. It was easier to get up and going this time than the last couple had been, maybe because my cold and cough are finally clearing off. I thought it would to be colder than it actually was (with the storm coming and all), so I added and extra layer. It didn't feel very cold, but was glad to had the extra layer after it started raining. I got home right when then rain turned to slush.

It's a nice starting the day off on a positive note like that and getting it all done and out of the way, not having to worry about my little girls being cold or not and practically dragging them out the door because they don't want to go to begin with, then stooping every other few blocks because one of them threw something out or looking out for falling shoes along the way. Instead they stay in their warm cozy beds sleeping. My favorite part has to be not looking out for other dogs along the way! It's just so much more stress free at this time of the day and much more ME time.

Here are my stats for last week and today.

Tuesday: 3 miles, 33 mins

Thursday: 3 miles 34 mins

Satuday: about 3 miles. No timing.

Moday: 3.5 miles 43 mins 17 secs.

2009-02-06T19:09:00.003-07:00

I finally did it. I have been such a slacker these last few months and I have made a new resolve to get back into shape. Just when I made that promise to myself, they closed the fitness room at my apartment complex for renovations for the month of January. I hate running in the snow and ice, so I was out of luck. This week it finally opened again on Tuesday. The problem began on Monday. They are having a fitness thingy at work this month and so everyone (or so it seems) has started climbing the stairs from the 1st floor to the top (about 11 flights). I stupidly decided to do it on Monday and man alive, I have never been this sore. So, today was the first day that I could walk and not look like an old man. Finally!

Today's stats:
60 mins on the elliptical

Today's Run

2009-02-06T12:24:00.002-07:00

Made it out on a run on the Treadmill today. Oli's been sick all week so my running was put on hold. I've got some big goals for the year-at least until the end of my birthday month. We'll see how that goes. Anyway. Today I ran a t a really good pace. I did 3.5 mph walking (for two minutes) and 5.2 mph running (for about 4 minutes). I did this all at a 4% incline. It takes forever to finish, but you always feel good at then end. I felt really strong today, I felt as though i could have kept going, but it's probably good that I take it easy to start. So I was thinking, how many of you would be interested in running a 5K in April? It is the one Allyson and I did last year, and I thought it would be fun to get a group of us running it together. Anybody in?

Today's Stats:
Distance: 3.25 miles
Time: 42 Minutes + 4 minutes of warm up walking and about 10 minutes of Yoga afterwards(It had to be quick and I haven't done it in such a long time that it was about as far as I could go).

Happy weekend!

All warmed up to it?

2009-02-06T09:49:00.004-07:00

I have been dragging on the issue of getting back to training. I can remember doing the same thing last year, so I guess this is my pattern. Talking about it for a couple of weeks, then slowly but surely, running once a week for a couple more weeks, until it finally hits! I think I have made it past that point and I'm finally all warmed up to it (cross my fingers). I had been playing with the options of getting a gym membership or buying a treadmill, both way out of my budget right now, and it would be really silly to do it when I can get my running done the traditional way, at least traditional for me, for FREE! in the smoggy streets of Salt Lake City with my most loyal running buddy, Tank-man the German Shepperd. I say most loyal because even my other 2 little team members (Naomi and Jocie) are not always so willing and enthusiastic as Tank is, and I don't blame them who wants to be stuck in the stroller looking at the same scenario over and over again, in 25 F degree weather. So for my two little one's sake and my own I am trying something new that I'm gonna like and get use to (I'm not so fond of my new routine just yet):Waking up at 6 am to go running with Tank, no babies.
I did it twice this week and it has worked perfectly, a little scary when it's still so dark in the morning, but I figure in a month's time there should be plenty of light that early in the morning and I will have form a new habit.

I can do it, I can do it, I do have it in me. That's what I keep telling myself :)

Happy running!

Last night's run

2009-01-30T10:50:00.003-07:00

I made it out for a run. Not outside but on the treadmill. It was hard. I ran more, my time was about the same and I increased the incline. It was hard, and I'm feeling it in my back today. Running after such a break is was tough, my legs were dying on me during the run and I felt a little sick to my stomach afterward. John thinks I did to much to start off with. Did I mention it was hard?

Here are my stats:
Distance: 3.2 miles + cool down
Time: 42 minutes + cool down (seven minutes running at 5.3 miles/hour, walking 2 minutes at 3.7 miles/hour)
Incline: 4.5% (think going up City Creek Canyon, starting at Memory Grove)

I don't know if I'll have time to go out today-John has a game and I have a shower to go to and trying to run on the treadmill with Olivia trying to get on is just too hard. We'll see what happens. Happy weekend!

Running

2009-01-13T15:37:00.002-07:00

OK. So it's a new year. I can't say that I made a resolution to run or lose weight or get in shape. But I do want to be healthy. So I started running again. This time I've been following John's instructions. I have been taking it easy, go against every fiber of my being. And while I haven't been going full speed ahead, I have managed to follow directions while keeping it challenging for me. My only thing now is consistency-I have yet to run a full week. So, without further dawdling, here is what I've been doing:

Running one minute, walking two. It doesn't sound like much and the reason for this specific workout is so that I don't get hurt again. I hadn't wanted to do this earlier was because I didn't want to be looking at a watch constantly. However, my parents got a treadmill and that has made working out so much easier and I have been able to keep track of the minutes I'm supposed to be walking/running. It take forever to do 3.1 miles, but I get them done. The way I make it a hard work out is by increasing the speed and the incline of the treadmill. I started with a 3% incline, walking at 3.5 miles/hour, running at 6 miles/hour. Today I was at 4% incline, walked at 3.7 mph and ran at 6.2 mph. It was hard, but I love the feeling I get when I'm done-a sense of accomplishment.

Anyway, I hope that the rest of you are doing great!

Dreading the cold morning runs

2008-11-09T21:51:00.004-07:00

I got out there a couple of times this week. I keep dreading the cold morning runs more than the hot mornings back during the summer, so I have been trying to go wheneven my husband is home and I manage to make time before it gets too dark. I like the going without a stroller, it makes me feel faster and stronger. We'll se how it goes this week.

Saturday at the Jordan River trail.

2008-11-03T10:14:00.005-07:00

I finally got out again on Saturday. We put the girls trailer for the bike and the bike in the car and then were on our way to the Jordan River trail. I also invited my sisters to come, we were short a bike, it turned out one had a punctured tube and we didn't have the stuff to fix it. We went anyway, I would run with the dog and they would bike. My sister Areli gave me a little brake taking the dog and letting me go on the bike for a little bit so I could take a breather. It was great outside and the trail is really nice. I had been on it before, my parents live really close to it, but never as far as we went this time, I think I have never been in good enough shape to make it as far as we went. We then stoped at a park right next to the trail, let the girls play and then headed back. I think it was a good 5 miles total. It was fun a we all got a good work out. My sisters and I were saying that this is something we should do every weekend. We'll see.

Saturday's run

2008-11-03T08:27:00.002-07:00

I went out on Saturday, I had to hurry because we were headed to a race for a couple of the kids on John's team. Friday, the night before, I stepped weird while I was changing Olivia into her PJ's and hurt my groin again. As you know, this has been a recurring injury with me this year. John advised me to do a brisk walk on Saturday, but I thought I would run and see how I felt. Well, I had a great run-no pain, ran strong and further than last time and my time was better than Fridays. Fast forward to Saturday evening-my injury flares up and it's been hurting ever since then. I got in trouble with John for not walking and he is strongly recommending that I just walk today. I might not even make it out today, but I'll try.

Saturday's Stats:
Distance: 5K
Time: 34:22

Today's "run"

2008-10-31T12:35:00.004-06:00

I have a lot of stuff to do today. Oli had a bad night and woke up super late so I wondered about even going out today. When Oli woke up, I decided that I would go ahead and go on my run since I was already late for all of the other things I had planned. It started off ok, feeling the usual tightness in my legs. But as the run progressed, I felt worse-not better. I couldn't get a good breath in and my legs didn't loosen up and they felt like lead. I ended up walking a lot more than normal-I would say that I probably walked about half of my route. It didn't help that there was a breeze-nice enough to cool you off, but strong enough where you could feel it pushing against you. I was able to get in a few good stretches of running in, but it took me about 2 miles to finally feel good enough to run. There were a few good things: 1- I got out there and ran/walked. 2-towards the end, my running felt really strong. Time today was not a victory, but the two items above were.

Stats:
Distance: 5K
Time: 36 minutes 48 seconds

Today's Run

2008-10-30T12:13:00.004-06:00

After much deliberation, I made it out today. It started off good-every day I set new goals for the next day and I keep improving on them. However, the heat got to me-I had to slow down to take off my long sleeve shirt. Then I had to stop to fix my Nike+ sensor. Then I just plain had to stop-twice right after my first hard hill. Still, I managed to improve on my endurance a little bit more and my time is a little bit faster today-not by much, but hey, it's something! Update on my toes (since it is such an interesting subject!)-I forgot to put on a band aid, but it didn't seem to matter-no blood today! Four straight days of running-only two more to go this week! Woo hoo!

Stats:
Distance: 5K
Time: 33 minutes 55 seconds

Sorry so late

2008-10-29T14:15:00.002-06:00

I keep forgeting to do this, but:

Congratulations Katie!!!

Katie did the Detroit Half Marathon a couple of weeks ago. She walked it and did great. Her training towards the end struggled, but she was still brave enough to do it! Katie, Sorry it took me so long to post this! Love ya!

Today's run

2008-10-29T14:12:00.003-06:00

It took some convincing, but I made it out there today. I was going to try to go at night, but I talked myself into just getting it done. My legs were super tight for about the first 1/2 mile. I thought they would explode! They finally loosened up and I was just fine. I'm glad that I got myself out there today! No bloody toes today-I put a band-aid around one of them and that seemed to do the trick today. A little bit faster today and I was able to run a little bit more too!

Stats:
Distance: 5K
Time: 34 minutes, 26 seconds

Today's run

2008-10-28T11:47:00.004-06:00

Wow! Two days in a row! This might actually lead to something!! :) Today's run was super hard. First, Olivia woke up about an hour later than she normally does so that means that I got out about an hour later. That means it was hotter than yesterday when I was out there...not good when you are dressed in all black. I had to shed my long sleeve shirt-good thing I had a sleeveless underneath. My legs felt like jelly the last half mile, I ran the same route, but ran more this time. I also shed 69 seconds from my time yesterday.

Stats:
Distance: 5K
Time: 35 minutes, 33 seconds

PS-The bloody toes returned today. Don't know what is causing it-no blisters, I trimmed my toenails (not that they really needed it) just in case. Oh well.

Taking a break is dangerous!

2008-10-27T20:34:00.005-06:00

I'm back as well! I think it's been about 3 weeks, maybe even a month. I have a few runs I have not blogged in, but not very many. I got a flat on my stroller that went unfixed for about 3 weeks, and made that my excuse until my husband finally fixed it last week. I made it out a couple of times last week and then today. Taking a break is dangerous. I know it, and still do it! But I always feels great to come back.

Areli, I'm happy that you have been able to get back to running! Keep it up!

Today's run

2008-10-27T13:57:00.005-06:00

So, I finally had enough of feeling bad about my new tummy. Yeah, six months off from running will do that you. I finally got myself out of the door for a run. It felt good to be out again and this was the perfect weather. As i was on my run, I realized two things:

1-I'm out of shape and this 'easy' run was kicking my butt

2-Oli is a lot heavier than she was 6 months ago.

My lower back is sore and so are my glutes. And to top it off, when I took off my shoe, this is what I saw:

Yup, a bloody sock and toes. Sorry, my toes are not the prettiest sight. I don't know why it happened-there is no blister or cut and my toe nails are just fine. Just one of those runner things I guess. Aside from all of this, I have to say that after 6 months, my time was pretty good-at least I'm pleased with it...for now.

Stats:

Distance: 3.2 miles

Time: 36 minutes

For a good cause

2008-10-14T15:32:00.002-06:00

OK. So here's the thing. There is a 5K on Saturday in Provo. It's for a good cause, it will benefit Stephanie Nielson. If you haven't heard of Stephanie Nielson, please click here. I really want to go and do this-I've read Stephanie's blog and her sister cjane's blog and it is a heartbreaking story and a heartwarming story at the same time. I'm going to try to make it with John and possibly my mom. Hopefully you can too. Here is the information on the 5k.

Soccer

2008-10-02T06:30:00.003-06:00

Well, I had a soccer game yesterday. It was the first day of our tournament. I'm sad to say that we lost-it was a good, physical game and I had fun, but just wasn't pleased with my performance. I had some good stops and even a shot on goal, but I felt I wasn't aggressive enough. Our season is officially over, oh well. I do start up with indoor soccer on the 18th, that should be a lot of fun!

PS-Good luck with your Bike ride Tia Nancy!!

Last week's recap

2008-09-29T08:51:00.004-06:00

OK, here's my recap for the rest of last week.

Wednesday: 4 miles

Thursday: I took my little girls up to the Millcreek Canyon. We went on a good hour and a half hike. Naomi was walking so I don't think we got very far. But I did get some exercise going up carrying a baby in the baby carrier.

Friday: 3 miles

Saturday: My husband and I went on 3 miles run/walk.

So that was my week. Hope you all have a good week this week.

My first fall run.

2008-09-23T21:07:00.003-06:00

Didn't make it out on Monday. The day started out really cloudy and chilli so I used it as an excuse. So no run on Monday. I did get some miles in today. I tried to get my watch going but it was pretty much useless. I had already been running for about 2 blocks when I remembered to get my watch going. Then we had to stop a couple times for other dogs we came across to go by, then we got to the park and I forgot to stop my watch. So my time was completely unaccurate. It's was a nice run though. The weather is lovely, but I know it won't last long, so I will do my best to get out there as much as possible this fall. Can you believe it? It's fall already! All those hot morning suddenly gone. Anyway, I will be looking for another race to run this fall, anyone wants to join?

3.5 miles in about 40 min

Al que madruga Dios le ayuda (early risers get God's help.....?)

2008-09-19T13:55:00.003-06:00

My babies woke up particularly early today, 6:10 AM, to be more specific. Last week and half that I didn't run I was able to "sleep-in" a couple of days in a row! How exciting! This past Monday my oldest got up around 7 AM, I took her potty and since my youngest was still sleeping I asked her if she wanted to come snuggle with me and she agreed. We slept in until my baby miraculously woke up at 8 AM! Next day, same thing happened. Only this time baby woke up at 7:30. I take that any day of the week! They usually wake up sometime around 6:30- 7 AM. I have to say it was nice to get out a little bit earlier today and to get that much time extra into our day.

Anyway, here's my guestimate for the day. I keep forgetting to set up my watch.

3.5 miles in 4o mins.

Weekly Game

2008-09-19T07:42:00.003-06:00

Our game this week was good and not good. I twas a good game because I felt that I really played well! Not to brag, but my defense in the first half was outstanding. Not so much in the second half because I missed out on the strategy (had to go to the car and get some milk for Oli). I twas also good because my injury is gone and I could run and sprint to my heart's content. And finally, it was good because John got to play with us and that was alot of fun. Not so good because we lost. Oh well. Not sure how next week will pan out-we have our last two game before the playoffs on Wednesday and Thursday. The only problem is that our plane to Phoenix departs 2 hours from when our game starts so I might not get to play those days. :(

I finally got out this morning!

2008-09-18T10:24:00.003-06:00

I finally got my butt out the door yesterday and then today. I feel so much better when I go running! It's a huge difference. I have more energy, I want to do things, I want to clean, I want to play with my babies. It's good.

On a sad note, there was an accident on the street this morning. I car hit a motorcyclist. The people who saw it said the man who got hit flew out of his motorcycle and landed on his back. The man was conscious and he look a lot better than you would imagine, no bleeding or anything and his bike looked good too. I hope he's ok.

Anyway, didn't get my watch going, but here's a guestimate for today and yesterday:

Yesterday: 3.5 miles in 40 mins. We had to cut our run short after this drunk guy came out of nowhere atempting to stay on his feet. We had to turn around and go home.

Today: 4 miles in 50 min

2008-09-16T22:59:00.001-06:00

Hi! I have something very important that I think you all would like to know about. I have post it on my blog. Thanks!