Didn't think I would get out for a run before Sunday, but the weather was good today and as I finished slightly early, got our for a run at 7pm.
Did a bit of shopping wearing my Garmin 305 - still no signal - so hung about at the bottom of the apartment waiting for a signal.
Man! that is a pain. It is the worst thing about the Garmin! - waiting for reception.
Anyway, walked to the nearby park, and almost immediately it picked up reception.
I'm going to try this next time, as the park is away from tall buildings.
Hopefully I'll get quick reception.
Was wearing my new RoadID name tag and reflective wrist and ankle bands.
Started at a good pace, meeting a friend on the first corner and managed to greet him without stopping. Thought to myself, that I was running a pace that I could speak at...but as I met him at about 50 metres the tiredness had not kicked in. In truth the pace was quicker than I should be running.
Having said that I was in Zone 4 (80-90%) for my heart beat for most of the run and for all of the first 2 miles.
As I was running faster than I should have been , I felt a stitch come on about half way round. By the beginning of the second mile it was quite bad and I ran the last mile with it bugging me.
I was pushing myself. I knew I was under 9minute/mile pace, so just wanted to keep going.
About a half mile from the end, I started feeling bad. A little sick and I promised that the next time the pain came I would slow down. remarkably, the pain left and I had a second wind. I pushed myself to what I believed to be the 5km mark...only to find I was approximately 200 metres from the end...I kept pushing and the end seemed further than I thought , but I finished in 27 minutes 32 seconds.
That is 8.50 mph pace.
Surprisingly the first mile which is very slightly uphill was my quickest. 8.44
My second mile which was very slightly downhill was the slowest 8.58
the last mile on the flat was 8.50.
Very pleased with the runs this week.
Looking forward to getting new socks I have ordered, and upping the distance ( but running at a slower pace than tonight!)
Weigh in later tonight, as the scales are back, and that will be under 82kg :-)(it would have been, but I have put the weigh-in off for another 5 days and with visitors here for meals, I may be battling the 82kg mark)
Friday 31 October 2008
Tuesday 28 October 2008
Day 42 - 4km in the rain
After yesterday's discouraging run, I was not in the mood to run today. In fact I was looking at every way possible to put off the run. However, it was not that easy!
The next 3 days are forecast rain, and due to having a busy schedule, i do not think I will get another chance this week for a run.
I got ready around 6pm and set out. I hoped that the satellite would work today, but although it was almost getting reception, for some reason it just would not connect. Very frustrating when you are waiting for a run!!
In truth the problem may have been that it was overcast and ready to rain, but I did not know that at the time.
Felt very easy for the first mile and by my calculations, I ran it in around 9.20 minutes. The satellite had picked up after about half a mile. I can see that it was working because speed and heart rate take a MASSIVE jump when I got chased by a dog!
Not very pleasant!
Just as I was getting into the run, the rain started.
I couldn't believe it...especially as I was approaching the half way mark.
I decided to push on as it was only spitting and ran the rest of the second mile in drizzle and thought I could keep going and finish the course.
The next section is over broken pavement and the rain was heavier and I was running into the wind. I was not dressed for the rain, and did not want to get soaked. I turned back for home completing the 2.7 miles in 22 minutes 55 seconds.
Not a bad time considering the first mile was at a slow pace.
Encouraging things....
- I ran when I didn't feel like running
- I was able to "up" the pace without any problem and breathing was easy.
- my feet felt better, having taped on some cotton wool to the toes and wearing 2 pairs of light socks.
- I did not get soaked as the rain continued drizzling rather than heavy rain.
Feeling a bit of pain at the back of my right knee, just to the inside of my leg. Not sure if it is muscular or not.
Anyway, it could be 5 days rest, so I am not too troubled by it.
The next 3 days are forecast rain, and due to having a busy schedule, i do not think I will get another chance this week for a run.
I got ready around 6pm and set out. I hoped that the satellite would work today, but although it was almost getting reception, for some reason it just would not connect. Very frustrating when you are waiting for a run!!
In truth the problem may have been that it was overcast and ready to rain, but I did not know that at the time.
Felt very easy for the first mile and by my calculations, I ran it in around 9.20 minutes. The satellite had picked up after about half a mile. I can see that it was working because speed and heart rate take a MASSIVE jump when I got chased by a dog!
Not very pleasant!
Just as I was getting into the run, the rain started.
I couldn't believe it...especially as I was approaching the half way mark.
I decided to push on as it was only spitting and ran the rest of the second mile in drizzle and thought I could keep going and finish the course.
The next section is over broken pavement and the rain was heavier and I was running into the wind. I was not dressed for the rain, and did not want to get soaked. I turned back for home completing the 2.7 miles in 22 minutes 55 seconds.
Not a bad time considering the first mile was at a slow pace.
Encouraging things....
- I ran when I didn't feel like running
- I was able to "up" the pace without any problem and breathing was easy.
- my feet felt better, having taped on some cotton wool to the toes and wearing 2 pairs of light socks.
- I did not get soaked as the rain continued drizzling rather than heavy rain.
Feeling a bit of pain at the back of my right knee, just to the inside of my leg. Not sure if it is muscular or not.
Anyway, it could be 5 days rest, so I am not too troubled by it.
Monday 27 October 2008
Day 41 - Bad experience
Got out for a 5km run this evening at 7pm.
My footpod for the Garmin 305 arrived today, so I was really pleased that I could just go out, switch the watch on and run...however it wasn't that easy.
For a start, the watch kept telling me that the footpod wasn't switched on - even though it was, and then when I started to run it didn't pick a signal up.
I waited for about 15 minutes trying to get either a satellite signal or the footpod to work. In the end I gave up and started to run...as soon as I started the watch picked up the footpod signal.
However, the calibration is not right and it said I had run 0.7miles when I was at the 1 mile marker.
Having waited for about 15 minutes and getting more and more frustrated, i think all my adrenaline was gone by the time I started to run.
I did not enjoy the run.
My legs felt heavy.
I felt I was running slow.
I finished and was glad to get home.
Just over 5km in 31minutes 50 seconds.
I reckon I probably completed the 5km in just over 30minutes.
Need to go out tomorrow and sort the calibration of the watch.
happy I ran, but not feeling very good tonight. Scared I will have to force myself to get back out next time.
My footpod for the Garmin 305 arrived today, so I was really pleased that I could just go out, switch the watch on and run...however it wasn't that easy.
For a start, the watch kept telling me that the footpod wasn't switched on - even though it was, and then when I started to run it didn't pick a signal up.
I waited for about 15 minutes trying to get either a satellite signal or the footpod to work. In the end I gave up and started to run...as soon as I started the watch picked up the footpod signal.
However, the calibration is not right and it said I had run 0.7miles when I was at the 1 mile marker.
Having waited for about 15 minutes and getting more and more frustrated, i think all my adrenaline was gone by the time I started to run.
I did not enjoy the run.
My legs felt heavy.
I felt I was running slow.
I finished and was glad to get home.
Just over 5km in 31minutes 50 seconds.
I reckon I probably completed the 5km in just over 30minutes.
Need to go out tomorrow and sort the calibration of the watch.
happy I ran, but not feeling very good tonight. Scared I will have to force myself to get back out next time.
Sunday 26 October 2008
Day 40 - Day Off
This is the second of 3-4 days off.
The first 2 days off are by choice, but the next 2 likely through being too busy.
Unfortunately, I have found that I have a blister on my foot.
Running the last half mile Friday, I noticed a burning pain on my toes. However, the blister is not there, but is on the ball of my foot.
Very unhappy with that and wondering what i should do.
It is not the greatest of blisters, and I hope it won't stop me from getting back out for a run as soon as I can.
The next problem I have is that I have a slight cold and had a sore throat all night and am feeling a bit weak. I always feel really tired as the clock's change, so I am not too worried, but I have hope a good night's rest will see me with renewed energy for tomorrow.
The final problem is that the scales will not be back in the house for another week or so, and we have had friends round for supper the last 2 nights with more coming tonight!!
Normally I have a very light evening meal - crackers and cheese, or something like that, but tonight it is soup, lasagna and cake with some beautiful red wine from Puglia, Italy!
Great! - but no so good for the calories :-(
The first 2 days off are by choice, but the next 2 likely through being too busy.
Unfortunately, I have found that I have a blister on my foot.
Running the last half mile Friday, I noticed a burning pain on my toes. However, the blister is not there, but is on the ball of my foot.
Very unhappy with that and wondering what i should do.
It is not the greatest of blisters, and I hope it won't stop me from getting back out for a run as soon as I can.
The next problem I have is that I have a slight cold and had a sore throat all night and am feeling a bit weak. I always feel really tired as the clock's change, so I am not too worried, but I have hope a good night's rest will see me with renewed energy for tomorrow.
The final problem is that the scales will not be back in the house for another week or so, and we have had friends round for supper the last 2 nights with more coming tonight!!
Normally I have a very light evening meal - crackers and cheese, or something like that, but tonight it is soup, lasagna and cake with some beautiful red wine from Puglia, Italy!
Great! - but no so good for the calories :-(
Friday 24 October 2008
Day 38 - another 5km
I should be busy the next 3 days so it looks like they will be rest days.
Apparently rest days are important, but I would far rather being out for at least a short run. (That would be 2 miles for me!)
So, knowing I would be off for 3 days, I went out for a run tonight.
Was very pleased that the satellite took only about 3 minutes to find reception and so I was off.
Ran a slightly quicker pace of 9.23 minutes/mile....but I switched off the watch at 3.1miles, just short of 5km, at 29 minutes and 15 seconds. I probably would have broken 30 minutes, but I was just glad to get out and run the 5km, and to get round again so easily.
Had a little leg pain, a twinge in the right knee and just to the right of my left knee cap, but this is the longest I have run in 2 consecutive days, and I am looking at running 5kms with at least one day rest between, so I am not too troubled by the pain.
Had a good meal as a reward, and a glass of wine.
Visitors for the next 2 days....so more eating and less running. :-(
Still no scales for the weigh-in.
Apparently rest days are important, but I would far rather being out for at least a short run. (That would be 2 miles for me!)
So, knowing I would be off for 3 days, I went out for a run tonight.
Was very pleased that the satellite took only about 3 minutes to find reception and so I was off.
Ran a slightly quicker pace of 9.23 minutes/mile....but I switched off the watch at 3.1miles, just short of 5km, at 29 minutes and 15 seconds. I probably would have broken 30 minutes, but I was just glad to get out and run the 5km, and to get round again so easily.
Had a little leg pain, a twinge in the right knee and just to the right of my left knee cap, but this is the longest I have run in 2 consecutive days, and I am looking at running 5kms with at least one day rest between, so I am not too troubled by the pain.
Had a good meal as a reward, and a glass of wine.
Visitors for the next 2 days....so more eating and less running. :-(
Still no scales for the weigh-in.
Thursday 23 October 2008
Day 37 – My first 5km
Thursday 23 October 2008
Was away all day in the capital city, Tirana, and that usually means that i am tired when i come home. However, I knew that if I got the chance I wanted to get out and run.
I wanted more than anything to try 5 km…
I have realised a couple of things.
1) the calories burned are the same no matter how fast you run, so there is no point in always looking for a new record.
2) I need to slowly increase the distance without increasing the pace. I can work on the pace when my body is used to running longer distances.
So, I decided on a new route and headed out at 5pm for a 5km.
Unfortunately it took around 15 minutes for the Garmin 305 to link up with the satellite and just as i was ready to run, I realised that I did not have on the heart monitor.
I don’t know if that made me more aggressive…but I had no negative thoughts the whole run.
I ran at “talking pace’ ( that is a pace that you could easily communicate with someone else running with you) and headed off.
This was by far the best and easiest run I have done.
My legs felt good, the pace was good, no stitch, no negative thoughts, no desire to drink water, no lack of energy, no cramps or pains….smooth running all the way.
I finished 3.21 miles which is a little over 5km in 30 minutes 27 seconds.
That is not very fast , but I am really , really pleased with myself and very encouraged at the progress.
Tonight, I had on my new climalite Adidas long sleeve shirt.
It was soaking but I think it really helped me.
My recovery time was remarkably quick and I was not sweating half as much as usual.
Weigh – in should have been yesterday, but the scales are not in the house, so I will weigh in when we get them back.
Was away all day in the capital city, Tirana, and that usually means that i am tired when i come home. However, I knew that if I got the chance I wanted to get out and run.
I wanted more than anything to try 5 km…
I have realised a couple of things.
1) the calories burned are the same no matter how fast you run, so there is no point in always looking for a new record.
2) I need to slowly increase the distance without increasing the pace. I can work on the pace when my body is used to running longer distances.
So, I decided on a new route and headed out at 5pm for a 5km.
Unfortunately it took around 15 minutes for the Garmin 305 to link up with the satellite and just as i was ready to run, I realised that I did not have on the heart monitor.
I don’t know if that made me more aggressive…but I had no negative thoughts the whole run.
I ran at “talking pace’ ( that is a pace that you could easily communicate with someone else running with you) and headed off.
This was by far the best and easiest run I have done.
My legs felt good, the pace was good, no stitch, no negative thoughts, no desire to drink water, no lack of energy, no cramps or pains….smooth running all the way.
I finished 3.21 miles which is a little over 5km in 30 minutes 27 seconds.
That is not very fast , but I am really , really pleased with myself and very encouraged at the progress.
Tonight, I had on my new climalite Adidas long sleeve shirt.
It was soaking but I think it really helped me.
My recovery time was remarkably quick and I was not sweating half as much as usual.
Weigh – in should have been yesterday, but the scales are not in the house, so I will weigh in when we get them back.
Monday 20 October 2008
Day 34 - Further progress
Well I did not realise that yesterday's run was ONE MINUTE faster than my previous 4km, and that included a full stop of around 10 seconds in traffic!
I felt so bad, bloated, and slow that I really thought it had been a slow run and the same as last time.
Tonight I was out earlier bu an hour and it was still quite warm. I only had 40 minutes to get the run in and as usual, when you are rushed, you cannot get the satellite to link up with your watch. I waited, but could wait no longer and headed off. Fortunately after half a mile the satellite kicked in...and I got a reading for the last 2 miles.
I was running 8.46 pace for the last 2 miles.
I actually run approx. 4.2km so the first section would be just over half a mile and I must have run that in some similar time.
I finished the run in 22minutes 15 seconds which was a new record.
Must admit that I felt very easy for the first mile and a half....the next three quarters of a mile was tough and the end I seemed to get some extra energy.
I was really pleased at running, and squeezing in the time as tomorrow is forecast for rain and Wednesday I am teaching so it looks like the next couple of days will be days off.
I am pleased that the weekend 2 day break seems to have given me more strength and that the heart rate was slightly down (average 162 bpm), however still above what I would like it to be.
Very encouraged, and after a shower I found myself saying ..."that was fun!"
I guess I must be enjoying running!
I felt so bad, bloated, and slow that I really thought it had been a slow run and the same as last time.
Tonight I was out earlier bu an hour and it was still quite warm. I only had 40 minutes to get the run in and as usual, when you are rushed, you cannot get the satellite to link up with your watch. I waited, but could wait no longer and headed off. Fortunately after half a mile the satellite kicked in...and I got a reading for the last 2 miles.
I was running 8.46 pace for the last 2 miles.
I actually run approx. 4.2km so the first section would be just over half a mile and I must have run that in some similar time.
I finished the run in 22minutes 15 seconds which was a new record.
Must admit that I felt very easy for the first mile and a half....the next three quarters of a mile was tough and the end I seemed to get some extra energy.
I was really pleased at running, and squeezing in the time as tomorrow is forecast for rain and Wednesday I am teaching so it looks like the next couple of days will be days off.
I am pleased that the weekend 2 day break seems to have given me more strength and that the heart rate was slightly down (average 162 bpm), however still above what I would like it to be.
Very encouraged, and after a shower I found myself saying ..."that was fun!"
I guess I must be enjoying running!
Sunday 19 October 2008
Day 33 - 4km
Rested the last 2 days, and fully expected not to be out for a run today. Sunday is usually my day off from running and I was invited out for a birthday lunch - lots of eating, drinking, cake! - Nothing that a runner should eat :-(
However, the lunch finished earlier than I thought and I managed to get out for a run around 5pm. the weather was still in the 70's and very warm...so i was looking forward to running although I felt full and bloated.
Completed the 4km ( well it is about 100 metres or so more than that) in 23 mins 22 seconds. ( That is a mistake, it was actually 22 minutes, 22 seconds, a whole minute faster than I realised. It took me a day to realise that it was quicker!)
That is one second less than the last time.
That was very encouraging, as the whole way round was a struggle, and I had to stop for up to 10 seconds for a truck that blocked the road.
Again lots of negative thoughts about not being able to run 4km...but I ran it!
feeling good now, although the run was not particularly enjoyable.
However, the lunch finished earlier than I thought and I managed to get out for a run around 5pm. the weather was still in the 70's and very warm...so i was looking forward to running although I felt full and bloated.
Completed the 4km ( well it is about 100 metres or so more than that) in 23 mins 22 seconds. ( That is a mistake, it was actually 22 minutes, 22 seconds, a whole minute faster than I realised. It took me a day to realise that it was quicker!)
That is one second less than the last time.
That was very encouraging, as the whole way round was a struggle, and I had to stop for up to 10 seconds for a truck that blocked the road.
Again lots of negative thoughts about not being able to run 4km...but I ran it!
feeling good now, although the run was not particularly enjoyable.
Friday 17 October 2008
ONE MONTH
It is now a month that have started to run.
I have thought about it for a while, even started once when i was in Scotland, but struggled and was very quickly out of breath. So this month has been a real encouragement.
Bad things.
Rainy days - I still don't have the proper equipment. I am running with a cotton t-shirt and a long sleeve cotton t-shirt on the top of that. I wear thick cotton sweatpants and they are SOAKING with sweat at the end of the run. I have just bought some cheap clothes from E-Bay and am hoping to get clothing that I can go out in the rain. Still a bit worried at having wet shoes the next day. The roads would probably be blocked with water anyway, so for now it will running on dry days only!
Distance - not too optimistic about extending my runs.I think I may struggle at 5km.
Weight Loss - I managed to lose some weight earlier in the year and found that down to 82kg the weight came off really easily. This time the weight is coming off really slowly, and I would like to get into "uncharted territory".
Good Things
Running - I am actually enjoying running. This is a real surprise. One day I struggled round my course, then got back, happy that I ran but feeling that the whole run had been a fight...and I found myself saying. "That was fun!" Where did THAT come from ? I also thought that I would need my mp3 player...but I am finding that I am enjoying running far better with it!
Weight Loss - Although the weight loss hasn't been dramatic, I have found that I feel so much better, fitter, happier, and that my stomach seems slimmer and also my treble chin seems to have disappeared. (One more to go!)
Side effects - I find that i can leave a lot of stress out on the road. I find that rather than being over tired, I have more physical strength.
Desire - I have a far stronger desire to run than I ever thought I would. I really thought the whole thing would be a drag...but it has been fun!
Running is fun!
I have thought about it for a while, even started once when i was in Scotland, but struggled and was very quickly out of breath. So this month has been a real encouragement.
Bad things.
Rainy days - I still don't have the proper equipment. I am running with a cotton t-shirt and a long sleeve cotton t-shirt on the top of that. I wear thick cotton sweatpants and they are SOAKING with sweat at the end of the run. I have just bought some cheap clothes from E-Bay and am hoping to get clothing that I can go out in the rain. Still a bit worried at having wet shoes the next day. The roads would probably be blocked with water anyway, so for now it will running on dry days only!
Distance - not too optimistic about extending my runs.I think I may struggle at 5km.
Weight Loss - I managed to lose some weight earlier in the year and found that down to 82kg the weight came off really easily. This time the weight is coming off really slowly, and I would like to get into "uncharted territory".
Good Things
Running - I am actually enjoying running. This is a real surprise. One day I struggled round my course, then got back, happy that I ran but feeling that the whole run had been a fight...and I found myself saying. "That was fun!" Where did THAT come from ? I also thought that I would need my mp3 player...but I am finding that I am enjoying running far better with it!
Weight Loss - Although the weight loss hasn't been dramatic, I have found that I feel so much better, fitter, happier, and that my stomach seems slimmer and also my treble chin seems to have disappeared. (One more to go!)
Side effects - I find that i can leave a lot of stress out on the road. I find that rather than being over tired, I have more physical strength.
Desire - I have a far stronger desire to run than I ever thought I would. I really thought the whole thing would be a drag...but it has been fun!
Running is fun!
Thursday 16 October 2008
Day 30 - 4km
Decided to try to squeeze a quick run in between picking up my boys from school. I have 45mins, so I thought I could do a 4km run.
I have bought a Garmin 305 watch/heart monitor, and so was anxious to try it out.
The watch couldn't find the satellite signal and I couldn't wait, so I headed off just on the timer. The watch picked up the signal after one mile, so the readings were quite interesting. To me my speed slowed down and heart rate rose in the last 500metres, but that was not the case!
Good average speed, and maintaining heart beat and pace throughout.
I finished the 4km in 23 mins 23 seconds.
47 seconds quicker than last time.
That was encouraging, although again I had a stitch the last 300 metres. Lots of negative thoughts this run. No ipod just running, and enjoying the beautiful day!
I seem to enjoy running without an ipod better than with music, but there is no denying that the music can inspire you!
I have bought a Garmin 305 watch/heart monitor, and so was anxious to try it out.
The watch couldn't find the satellite signal and I couldn't wait, so I headed off just on the timer. The watch picked up the signal after one mile, so the readings were quite interesting. To me my speed slowed down and heart rate rose in the last 500metres, but that was not the case!
Good average speed, and maintaining heart beat and pace throughout.
I finished the 4km in 23 mins 23 seconds.
47 seconds quicker than last time.
That was encouraging, although again I had a stitch the last 300 metres. Lots of negative thoughts this run. No ipod just running, and enjoying the beautiful day!
I seem to enjoy running without an ipod better than with music, but there is no denying that the music can inspire you!
Day 30 - Weigh in
No run yesterday, and it looks a bit thundery today, and I have a meeting in the afternoon so I probably won't get out today which is discouraging.
However, yesterday was a weigh in.
83.1kg
That is a big encouragement.
In truth I have been really trying to watch my weight and keep it down this week.
I am on medicine for intestinal candida - so they recommend no sugar, no coffee and no alcohol ( and no bread!!)
So i am cutting down, but I have STRONG sugar cravings.
Still, a loss of 600g in one week is good.
Very happy!
However, yesterday was a weigh in.
83.1kg
That is a big encouragement.
In truth I have been really trying to watch my weight and keep it down this week.
I am on medicine for intestinal candida - so they recommend no sugar, no coffee and no alcohol ( and no bread!!)
So i am cutting down, but I have STRONG sugar cravings.
Still, a loss of 600g in one week is good.
Very happy!
Tuesday 14 October 2008
Day 28 - 4 km
Worked out some routes on the internet.
The above one starts at the purple mark and the purple course is the first mile, then green is the second mile and red the final half mile.
The distance is 4km...just a little further than the distance I am running at the moment. As i was not planning a run tomorrow and the following night it appears I will be too busy, then I was determined to run just a little further and take the next 2 days for rest.
Took the run nice and easy, and although a bit tough at the beginning, by half way round i felt very good.
Towards the end, i think psychologically the finish makes me tired.
Ran the course in 24 mins 10 seconds.
At no point did I feel I was pushing it, and I was just trying to run an easy 4km...although I had a stitch towards the last 2-300 metres.
Encouraged, and hoping to enjoy a couple of days off and rest my legs.
Monday 13 October 2008
Day 27 - Progress
Another 2 miles in the evening.
My quickest time, although I did feel i was running a little too fast, and I felt a bit empty stomached and sick towards the end of the run.
Finished in 18 mins 49 seconds, 15 seconds quicker than any of my other 2 mile runs.
Very encouraged and pleased with that. Especially as the run is actually a couple of hundred metres longer than 2 miles.
Met one of my neighbours before I set off and he encouraged me in the run. After completing the run, had to go to buy milk and met another neighbour whom I do not know, he also encouraged me.
I love running through my neighbourhood!
My quickest time, although I did feel i was running a little too fast, and I felt a bit empty stomached and sick towards the end of the run.
Finished in 18 mins 49 seconds, 15 seconds quicker than any of my other 2 mile runs.
Very encouraged and pleased with that. Especially as the run is actually a couple of hundred metres longer than 2 miles.
Met one of my neighbours before I set off and he encouraged me in the run. After completing the run, had to go to buy milk and met another neighbour whom I do not know, he also encouraged me.
I love running through my neighbourhood!
Sunday 12 October 2008
Weight Loss (again) (Day 26)
Bought myself a couple of bottles of Gatorade. My favourite is the Lime flavour...but typically it wasn't available. I have read to be careful with these drinks as the calories are quite high and you can replace the calories you have lost almost immediately after a run by drinking too much of them!
So I decided to just have a little drink after each run.
I always drink fruit juice, realising that sugary, fizzy drinks like Coca Cola are not good for running!
I went to get a drink of fruit juice yesterday and noticed that the calories were 54 kcal(227kj) for 100ml!
WHAT!!!!!
That is twice the calories of gatorade.
No wonder my weight is coming off slowly!
Fruit juice is out for the moment!
Looking for another good low calorie drink!
So I decided to just have a little drink after each run.
I always drink fruit juice, realising that sugary, fizzy drinks like Coca Cola are not good for running!
I went to get a drink of fruit juice yesterday and noticed that the calories were 54 kcal(227kj) for 100ml!
WHAT!!!!!
That is twice the calories of gatorade.
No wonder my weight is coming off slowly!
Fruit juice is out for the moment!
Looking for another good low calorie drink!
Day 26 - The Good Samaritan
Yesterday went out for a late run near 8p.m.
At first I switched off the stop watch by mistake, but noticed that quite quickly.
However, half way round the run I saw a man lying in the gutter. he was wet, without a shoe and his crutches were lying on the ground. I stopped and went over to help him. He was drunk. He only had the use of one leg. I got him up onto his crutches but he just fell over. I pulled him over to the nearest bar, and sat him up against the wall. I then asked the bar staff to call an ambulance to take him home.
There wasn't much else I could do. He was so drunk he couldn't speak!
I then stopped off to buy bread before heading back home.
The watch just kept running and I have no idea how quick or slow I was running. i was just glad that the stops had not put me out of stride, and I managed to get back quickly into my rhythm.
Would have liked a decent run and time, but it was not to be.
Interestingly I have run 11 miles this last week, which is the same amount as all other days put together.
I feel comfortable on the 2 mile run, and plan to do 2 miles this week again, at least 8 miles and then see about upping my distance.
This week looks busy. I already have meetings on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.I may manage a late run on Mon. Fri, and Sat , but Wednesday looks out.
I hope the rain stays off!
At first I switched off the stop watch by mistake, but noticed that quite quickly.
However, half way round the run I saw a man lying in the gutter. he was wet, without a shoe and his crutches were lying on the ground. I stopped and went over to help him. He was drunk. He only had the use of one leg. I got him up onto his crutches but he just fell over. I pulled him over to the nearest bar, and sat him up against the wall. I then asked the bar staff to call an ambulance to take him home.
There wasn't much else I could do. He was so drunk he couldn't speak!
I then stopped off to buy bread before heading back home.
The watch just kept running and I have no idea how quick or slow I was running. i was just glad that the stops had not put me out of stride, and I managed to get back quickly into my rhythm.
Would have liked a decent run and time, but it was not to be.
Interestingly I have run 11 miles this last week, which is the same amount as all other days put together.
I feel comfortable on the 2 mile run, and plan to do 2 miles this week again, at least 8 miles and then see about upping my distance.
This week looks busy. I already have meetings on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.I may manage a late run on Mon. Fri, and Sat , but Wednesday looks out.
I hope the rain stays off!
Friday 10 October 2008
Day 24
Was another beautiful day, and looking forward to a run.
Measured out my run on Tuesday to be 4.8km (so not the 5km I had previously thought) but it was 3 miles.
Was at the teenagers class tonight, but one of the mother's had prepared petulla (like a sugarless donut) and I ate 3 of them.
When I arrived back in Shkoder i felt a run was out of the question.
As soon as I dismissed a run, I felt that I wanted to run - even though I was not feeling too good.
As soon as I started to run I felt bad.
However, I just kept running - slow pace, but I just wanted to get through the 2miles.
About half way round, my run was completed blocked by a guy getting out of his car. Then about 1km from the end I was running past a car when it turned and blocked me into the wall. the driver then opened his door and stared at me as though he wanted me to complain.
The song on my mp3 player just happened ( does anything just happen by chance?!) to be "Psycho Killer" by the Talking Heads.
"Psycho Killer
Qu'est-ce que c'est?
fa fa fa fa fa fa fa fa far better
Run run run run run away"
I though to myself..." far better run run run run run away!"
I told him to continue and I ran away!
Slight delay on these 2 stops and it did break my rhythm although my time was not affected too much.
In the end I completed the 2 miles in 20 mins 33 secs.
Again, not my greatest run, but I was very pleased with myself.
I ran when I really did not feel like running.
I ran with a bit of pain and a bloated stomach.
I ran through the pain and completed the 2 miles.
I feel good about running 2 miles now - even when I don;t feel that good!
Measured out my run on Tuesday to be 4.8km (so not the 5km I had previously thought) but it was 3 miles.
Was at the teenagers class tonight, but one of the mother's had prepared petulla (like a sugarless donut) and I ate 3 of them.
When I arrived back in Shkoder i felt a run was out of the question.
As soon as I dismissed a run, I felt that I wanted to run - even though I was not feeling too good.
As soon as I started to run I felt bad.
However, I just kept running - slow pace, but I just wanted to get through the 2miles.
About half way round, my run was completed blocked by a guy getting out of his car. Then about 1km from the end I was running past a car when it turned and blocked me into the wall. the driver then opened his door and stared at me as though he wanted me to complain.
The song on my mp3 player just happened ( does anything just happen by chance?!) to be "Psycho Killer" by the Talking Heads.
"Psycho Killer
Qu'est-ce que c'est?
fa fa fa fa fa fa fa fa far better
Run run run run run away"
I though to myself..." far better run run run run run away!"
I told him to continue and I ran away!
Slight delay on these 2 stops and it did break my rhythm although my time was not affected too much.
In the end I completed the 2 miles in 20 mins 33 secs.
Again, not my greatest run, but I was very pleased with myself.
I ran when I really did not feel like running.
I ran with a bit of pain and a bloated stomach.
I ran through the pain and completed the 2 miles.
I feel good about running 2 miles now - even when I don;t feel that good!
Thursday 9 October 2008
Day 23 - Back to 2 mile
No run yesterday.
I was teaching at church in the evening and had not time to run. I am making Wednesday my rest day as I am teaching in the evenings.
I was glad to have a rest as my legs were quite sore and stiff after the 5km run on Tuesday. I think I took on too much.
Good:
1) I ran my target distance.(5km)( edit. Not quite...it was 3 miles but only 4.8km)
2) I felt good
Bad:
1) Don't think my body was ready to increase the distance to 5km. Should have stuck to running a few more 3km as I originally planned.
2) I am needing recovery time. I feel dehydrated and after yesterday's teaching was feeling pretty tired.
3) Got to look at this as a slow, long term thing and not a get-fit-quick program!
Weigh in yesterday was 83.7km.
We had a family round for supper after church, so that meant I ate more than I normally would have done, but still the weight loss (or lack of it) is slightly discouraging. I have lost 100g since starting. That is terrible!!
The strange thing is I think I have lost weight on my my stomach and my face, and I feel a lot better.
I must write 100 times...."This is a long term, slow run to fitness and weight loss"
God willing, Summer 2009 is my target to be 77kg and below.
Tonight I had 2 meetings arranged, so I thought I would not get a run in...but one meeting was cancelled so I was able to get out for a run after getting my son from school.
5pm was the earliest I have run and it was a beautiful night, and very warm in the 70's...so it was the hottest night so far for a run.
To be honest I decided 3km was the maximum for this run, and my legs felt far better than at any other time...however it just felt a struggle the whole way round.
When I got back, I had to climb the 4 flights of stairs to our apartment...and no-one opened the door. That was a terrible feeling. When you get home , you just want to get in and get relaxed and warm down....I started to feel worse. When my wife eventually opened the door, I was not feeling too good. Not sick, just a little empty stomached and weak. I saw a packet of crisps and ate them, feeling better almost immediately.
No doubt putting on more calories in one minute than I lost in the whole run. :-(
Still, I ran, and I believe it is doing me good.
Time was slower than last time, but still under 10 minutes a mile.
19 minutes 38 seconds.
Think I need to keep at 3km for at least another week.
I was teaching at church in the evening and had not time to run. I am making Wednesday my rest day as I am teaching in the evenings.
I was glad to have a rest as my legs were quite sore and stiff after the 5km run on Tuesday. I think I took on too much.
Good:
1) I ran my target distance.(5km)( edit. Not quite...it was 3 miles but only 4.8km)
2) I felt good
Bad:
1) Don't think my body was ready to increase the distance to 5km. Should have stuck to running a few more 3km as I originally planned.
2) I am needing recovery time. I feel dehydrated and after yesterday's teaching was feeling pretty tired.
3) Got to look at this as a slow, long term thing and not a get-fit-quick program!
Weigh in yesterday was 83.7km.
We had a family round for supper after church, so that meant I ate more than I normally would have done, but still the weight loss (or lack of it) is slightly discouraging. I have lost 100g since starting. That is terrible!!
The strange thing is I think I have lost weight on my my stomach and my face, and I feel a lot better.
I must write 100 times...."This is a long term, slow run to fitness and weight loss"
God willing, Summer 2009 is my target to be 77kg and below.
Tonight I had 2 meetings arranged, so I thought I would not get a run in...but one meeting was cancelled so I was able to get out for a run after getting my son from school.
5pm was the earliest I have run and it was a beautiful night, and very warm in the 70's...so it was the hottest night so far for a run.
To be honest I decided 3km was the maximum for this run, and my legs felt far better than at any other time...however it just felt a struggle the whole way round.
When I got back, I had to climb the 4 flights of stairs to our apartment...and no-one opened the door. That was a terrible feeling. When you get home , you just want to get in and get relaxed and warm down....I started to feel worse. When my wife eventually opened the door, I was not feeling too good. Not sick, just a little empty stomached and weak. I saw a packet of crisps and ate them, feeling better almost immediately.
No doubt putting on more calories in one minute than I lost in the whole run. :-(
Still, I ran, and I believe it is doing me good.
Time was slower than last time, but still under 10 minutes a mile.
19 minutes 38 seconds.
Think I need to keep at 3km for at least another week.
Tuesday 7 October 2008
Day 21 - Success - 3 miles
I was ready for a run yesterday. Picked the kids up from school, just relaxing and as it was a beautiful day I was looking forward to running just before the sun went down.
Then, I got a call from one of the teenagers wanting me to go and speak to him...so I put off the run. I planned a run yesterday and 2 days off to rest, but it meant that yesterday was rest day and tonight after picking my son up, I had a meeting with someone.
As soon as that finished I was off for a run.
I had been out on the bike earlier and gone over a potential route but it looked like I would try it in about 10 days time.
However, as I hit 1km, I felt good and really wanted to try the new route.
As I came back on to the old route I thought it was likely to be short of 5km. I estimated this without looking at my watch, as I did not want to see the time. I was only going by the songs on my mp3 player ( this is the first time I have run with the player, but most of my other runs have been short). As I came back up to finish I saw the time was well under 30 minutes, so was sure that the distance was not 5km. Feeling reasonably good, i extended the run another 500km.
I finished on 30 mins. 36 seconds.
I have no idea how far officially it was. I am pretty sure it was 3miles...and it could have been very close to 5km.(edit: measured at 4.8km)
Feeling good.
Legs a little sore, but nothing worrying.
Feeling very encouraged!
Then, I got a call from one of the teenagers wanting me to go and speak to him...so I put off the run. I planned a run yesterday and 2 days off to rest, but it meant that yesterday was rest day and tonight after picking my son up, I had a meeting with someone.
As soon as that finished I was off for a run.
I had been out on the bike earlier and gone over a potential route but it looked like I would try it in about 10 days time.
However, as I hit 1km, I felt good and really wanted to try the new route.
As I came back on to the old route I thought it was likely to be short of 5km. I estimated this without looking at my watch, as I did not want to see the time. I was only going by the songs on my mp3 player ( this is the first time I have run with the player, but most of my other runs have been short). As I came back up to finish I saw the time was well under 30 minutes, so was sure that the distance was not 5km. Feeling reasonably good, i extended the run another 500km.
I finished on 30 mins. 36 seconds.
I have no idea how far officially it was. I am pretty sure it was 3miles...and it could have been very close to 5km.(edit: measured at 4.8km)
Feeling good.
Legs a little sore, but nothing worrying.
Feeling very encouraged!
Sunday 5 October 2008
Day 19 - 2 miles
No run yesterday, so was looking forward to getting back out today, which should have been my rest day.
It has been a beautiful day. My afternoon meeting was cancelled, so I had time to go for a run after picking up my son from Sunday School.
First of all I think I need to stretch more before starting. I cycled to church and back with my boys on the bike and I thought that would be a good warm up.
Then, I did some stretching but immediately on starting I had a feeling of a sharp pain down the front of my right leg.
More stretching needed!
The first half km I felt my legs heavy and felt I was running well within myself. Then I remembered that I had not drunk a couple of glasses of water which i usually do about a half hour before running. That was psychologically bad. However, I pushed myself to keep going. On getting round the new route and coming back on to the old route I looked at my watch and saw that i was at least a minute up, and decided to push on, but there was no energy. I started to feel bad. I could sense my body searching but my stomach was empty. I decided to keep on at the same pace. As I turned to the last straight my mind said "kick on" but my body said "stop". I managed to keep going and right round to the end.
Looked at my watch and it 19 mins 04 seconds.
That is 2 mins 9 secs secs quicker than 2 nights ago!
WOW!! That is awesome!
It also means I was running 9.32 secs miles!
I am impressed with that!
It felt good. I was a little out of breath at the end and must try to slow down a bit till I am used to the distance.
Very encouraged!
It has been a beautiful day. My afternoon meeting was cancelled, so I had time to go for a run after picking up my son from Sunday School.
First of all I think I need to stretch more before starting. I cycled to church and back with my boys on the bike and I thought that would be a good warm up.
Then, I did some stretching but immediately on starting I had a feeling of a sharp pain down the front of my right leg.
More stretching needed!
The first half km I felt my legs heavy and felt I was running well within myself. Then I remembered that I had not drunk a couple of glasses of water which i usually do about a half hour before running. That was psychologically bad. However, I pushed myself to keep going. On getting round the new route and coming back on to the old route I looked at my watch and saw that i was at least a minute up, and decided to push on, but there was no energy. I started to feel bad. I could sense my body searching but my stomach was empty. I decided to keep on at the same pace. As I turned to the last straight my mind said "kick on" but my body said "stop". I managed to keep going and right round to the end.
Looked at my watch and it 19 mins 04 seconds.
That is 2 mins 9 secs secs quicker than 2 nights ago!
WOW!! That is awesome!
It also means I was running 9.32 secs miles!
I am impressed with that!
It felt good. I was a little out of breath at the end and must try to slow down a bit till I am used to the distance.
Very encouraged!
Saturday 4 October 2008
Day 18
No run.
heavy rain and thunderstorms. Cleared up in the afternoon and hopes to run in the evening after the teenagers class. the heavens opened and the roads were blocked with water - a run was totally off.
Drove round yesterday's route.
3.3km (maybe near 3.4km)
That is over 2 miles!
I actually ran to the bottom of a road that I have thought about running but thought it was WAAAAAY too far. In the dark, and feeling good I extended my run and actually ran to the bottom of this road without realizing it!
feeling good. Looking forward to getting out tomorrow(hopefully)
heavy rain and thunderstorms. Cleared up in the afternoon and hopes to run in the evening after the teenagers class. the heavens opened and the roads were blocked with water - a run was totally off.
Drove round yesterday's route.
3.3km (maybe near 3.4km)
That is over 2 miles!
I actually ran to the bottom of a road that I have thought about running but thought it was WAAAAAY too far. In the dark, and feeling good I extended my run and actually ran to the bottom of this road without realizing it!
feeling good. Looking forward to getting out tomorrow(hopefully)
Friday 3 October 2008
Day 17 - Progress
Today I ran 3km.
Not 100% sure of the distance but at least it was 3km.
I ran a new route and will need to check the proper distance. It took 21 mins 13 seconds and it felt GOOD!
Was not thinking too much about a run, just a little disappointed that the weather was rainy and forecast heavy showers. the evening was beautiful and warm and after the teenagers class in Koplik I was out for a run.
I had measured a new mile run that crosses my old run...this gave me the option of running the new mile or a further longer run, taking in the last part of my original route.
I must admit, I was determined to run further than a mile and I just felt good the whole run.
I am so pleased with myself. As I completed part one I had actually run 11 minutes. Slightly slower pace, but some lanes were pitch black and i was running on unknown roads. i was scared of the many open manholes!
As I got to what must have been a mile I felt so good and I continued. No real pain, no difficulty in breathing, no desire for a drink.
I extended the home run a little to try to make it nearer 2 miles...but am unsure at the exact mileage.
Absolutely delighted with myself and my t-shirt was soaking with sweat!
Running is fun!
Not 100% sure of the distance but at least it was 3km.
I ran a new route and will need to check the proper distance. It took 21 mins 13 seconds and it felt GOOD!
Was not thinking too much about a run, just a little disappointed that the weather was rainy and forecast heavy showers. the evening was beautiful and warm and after the teenagers class in Koplik I was out for a run.
I had measured a new mile run that crosses my old run...this gave me the option of running the new mile or a further longer run, taking in the last part of my original route.
I must admit, I was determined to run further than a mile and I just felt good the whole run.
I am so pleased with myself. As I completed part one I had actually run 11 minutes. Slightly slower pace, but some lanes were pitch black and i was running on unknown roads. i was scared of the many open manholes!
As I got to what must have been a mile I felt so good and I continued. No real pain, no difficulty in breathing, no desire for a drink.
I extended the home run a little to try to make it nearer 2 miles...but am unsure at the exact mileage.
Absolutely delighted with myself and my t-shirt was soaking with sweat!
Running is fun!
Thursday 2 October 2008
Day 16
Another mile run.
10 mins 10 secs.
Far quicker than any of my other times,( 33 seconds quicker than last run, and 1min 23 secs quicker than my first mile!) and I really felt comfortable. I had a slight pain down the front of my lower legs at the beginning which I think came from stretching exercises before the last run. I also had the feeling that a "stitch' was coming on in my left side as I approached the end, but my breathing and general energy was very good.
AS I approached my house, my neighbour was there and spoke to me. Had this been one of my first runs I would have embarrassingly spluttered and been unable to speak from lack of breath. However, I managed to say, very casually, "Oh yeah, just out for run!".
Great feeling!
I actually felt as though these were not my legs - they just seemed to keep going as though at times they defied my brain.
Everything on tonight's run seemed shorter. Probably because I was running quicker.
I actually believe the circuit is further than one mile, so that would mean that i ran 1 mile in under 10 minutes.
That is encouraging!
Feeling good tonight!
10 mins 10 secs.
Far quicker than any of my other times,( 33 seconds quicker than last run, and 1min 23 secs quicker than my first mile!) and I really felt comfortable. I had a slight pain down the front of my lower legs at the beginning which I think came from stretching exercises before the last run. I also had the feeling that a "stitch' was coming on in my left side as I approached the end, but my breathing and general energy was very good.
AS I approached my house, my neighbour was there and spoke to me. Had this been one of my first runs I would have embarrassingly spluttered and been unable to speak from lack of breath. However, I managed to say, very casually, "Oh yeah, just out for run!".
Great feeling!
I actually felt as though these were not my legs - they just seemed to keep going as though at times they defied my brain.
Everything on tonight's run seemed shorter. Probably because I was running quicker.
I actually believe the circuit is further than one mile, so that would mean that i ran 1 mile in under 10 minutes.
That is encouraging!
Feeling good tonight!
Back to square one!
Weigh in yesterday and I was back to 83.8kg.
That is not bad as i was 900g more than that last week(84.7kg), and the weigh in was on a rest day.So i am pretty pleased at the weight loss. I do not want to lose too much weight too quickly, so realistically am looking to lose around 600-700g each month.
If I can do that then I should be down to BMI normal in around a years time.
There will be good days, and there will be bad days.
I feel I need to be disciplined and to keep running.
(Forecast 3 days of heavy showers. these are 3 days that I want to put in a mile on each day - so hopefully the rain will keep off as I still do not have the right clothing for a run in the rain)
That is not bad as i was 900g more than that last week(84.7kg), and the weigh in was on a rest day.So i am pretty pleased at the weight loss. I do not want to lose too much weight too quickly, so realistically am looking to lose around 600-700g each month.
If I can do that then I should be down to BMI normal in around a years time.
There will be good days, and there will be bad days.
I feel I need to be disciplined and to keep running.
(Forecast 3 days of heavy showers. these are 3 days that I want to put in a mile on each day - so hopefully the rain will keep off as I still do not have the right clothing for a run in the rain)
Wednesday 1 October 2008
Weight Loss (Day 15)
One of the reasons that i am running is to lose some weight.
I do want to get fit, but I also want to lose some weight.
Last week I ate too much and I put on some weight.
Running is a real problem for an overweight middle-aged man, trying to get healthy, fitter and smaller around the waist!
Problem 1)
Running means i need to eat.
A car burns up petrol as it travels on the road.Therefore the need to fill her up with petrol.
A runner burns up calories as he runs. Therefore the need to stock up on some calories.
Just the very thing I am trying to avoid!
Problem 2)
I feel good about running. I am challenging myself. I am being disciplined. I am completing the tasks.
I deserve a "reward".
How about a Mars bar!
Result - I add on in 30seconds more than I burn off in my mile run! :-(
Problem 3)
I complete a run and come home ...hungry!
I have an enormous appetite after running.
Problem 4)
Running builds up muscle, putting on weight. Obviously this muscle should burn up more fat and calories as I use them later on...but the very beginning I need ENCOURAGEMENT and weight gain is NO encouragement!
So, last week was a disaster. This week i have cut back on my soft drink intake - only drinking sparkling mineral water, and Zero Coca Cola, and very little of that!
I have cut down my bread intake. I live in Albania and am used to warm, freshly baked bread, which you can easily eat 3-4. And that is THICK slices.
I feel like I have lost weight, but the weigh in will be after the meal tonight, and it is a rest day...so I will see how things go.
I do want to get fit, but I also want to lose some weight.
Last week I ate too much and I put on some weight.
Running is a real problem for an overweight middle-aged man, trying to get healthy, fitter and smaller around the waist!
Problem 1)
Running means i need to eat.
A car burns up petrol as it travels on the road.Therefore the need to fill her up with petrol.
A runner burns up calories as he runs. Therefore the need to stock up on some calories.
Just the very thing I am trying to avoid!
Problem 2)
I feel good about running. I am challenging myself. I am being disciplined. I am completing the tasks.
I deserve a "reward".
How about a Mars bar!
Result - I add on in 30seconds more than I burn off in my mile run! :-(
Problem 3)
I complete a run and come home ...hungry!
I have an enormous appetite after running.
Problem 4)
Running builds up muscle, putting on weight. Obviously this muscle should burn up more fat and calories as I use them later on...but the very beginning I need ENCOURAGEMENT and weight gain is NO encouragement!
So, last week was a disaster. This week i have cut back on my soft drink intake - only drinking sparkling mineral water, and Zero Coca Cola, and very little of that!
I have cut down my bread intake. I live in Albania and am used to warm, freshly baked bread, which you can easily eat 3-4. And that is THICK slices.
I feel like I have lost weight, but the weigh in will be after the meal tonight, and it is a rest day...so I will see how things go.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
